Founded in 2013 in Compton, Trap Kitchen was built by former rivals Malachi “Spank” Jenkins and Roberto “News” Smith. Starting from a grandmother’s kitchen and selling through Instagram, they transformed hustle into a nationally recognized brand. Blending soul food, Southern comfort, and bold flavors, they grew through pop-ups, food trucks, catering, and cookbooks—proving authenticity, resilience, and digital entrepreneurship can turn second chances into lasting success.

This Chamber report documents Compton’s 2025 conditions across housing, business costs, workforce mobility, public safety, homelessness, infrastructure, transit, logistics, education, healthcare, food access, arts, and community services. It presents a data-grounded civic record showing how interdependent systems shaped economic resilience, quality of life, and long-term capacity during a year of structural transition.

A quarter of the 21st century has passed, yet plastic recycling still fails to reduce plastic waste. In Compton, most plastics placed in recycling carts are not recycled but discarded, driven by market economics rather than resident behavior. Only plastics 1 and 2 have limited recyclability; most packaging is non-recyclable. Real solutions require reducing plastic use and holding producers accountable, not relying on sorting illusions.

Compton’s Winter 2025 Recreation Guide highlights upgraded parks, vibrant youth sports, creative classes, senior activities, and festive events across the city. From new playgrounds to after-school programs and the 70th Annual Christmas Parade, the season brings fresh opportunities for families, seniors, and kids to stay active, connected, and inspired.