Kristin Smart's killer loses final appeal

Author

Carly Heltzel
January 15, 2026

Good morning. It’s Thursday, and I’m reading about why some people are upset by the “Thrasher” logo’s global success. Onto the five Cal Poly, SLO and California stories you need to know for today.

1.

Kristin Smart’s convicted killer just lost his final appeal, meaning he will forever be held responsible for the 1996 murder of Smart, a Cal Poly freshman. He is serving 25 years to life in prison after a three-month trial found him guilty in 2022. The district attorney said he is “very pleased that this decision brings a stronger sense of finality for all involved.”

2.

Student workers got a state-mandated 40 cent raise on Jan. 1, from $16.50 to $16.90 per hour. California and 18 other states raised minimum wage this year to keep up with inflation. A measure that would have boosted the state-wide minimum wage to $18 per hour this year failed, largely due to concerns it would make inflation worse. Student workers said every bit helps when it comes to supporting themselves through college.

3.

A federal court upheld Proposition 50’s victory in the November special election, solidifying California’s plan to temporarily redraw congressional districts to favor Democrats. The case is expected to go to the Supreme Court. Two months ago, a different federal court denied Texas’ redrawn maps — which California’s were a direct response to — citing illegal racial gerrymandering. “Can’t spell Republican without an L,” Gov. Gavin Newsom’s office posted on X. 

4.

Death cap mushrooms poisonings are at an alarming high in California this winter. Some 35 people have been poisoned since November, far outpacing the state’s usual five poisonings per year. Three people have died from ingesting the mushrooms and three have had liver transplants to save their lives. Officials say this is likely the largest mushroom poisoning outbreak in state history. 

5.

The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to Cal Poly tomorrow for the fourth year in a row as a stop on their 100 year anniversary tour. Tickets are still on sale for a low of $40. The exhibition basketball team is know for their trick shots and holds over 60 Guinness World Records. “It’s awesome that they get to come here because they usually go to bigger cities,” one coordinator said.