Author: Brianna Kamienski

Top-Selling US Cannabis Brand STIIIZY Debuts Hemp-Infused Seltzers

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STIIIZY, the top-selling, is debuting STIIIZY Seltzers, a line of hemp-infused beverages meant to uplift your spirits. The leading brand is known for its vape pods, which have gained cult-like popularity. STIIIZY also ranks number one in flower and extracts and owns 15% of California’s cannabis market share.

Unlike the brand’s other products, the new seltzer line is hemp-based and non-psychoactive inducing. The seltzers are made from the part of the cannabis sativa plant that contains little to no THC (less than 0.3%) and focuses on delivering the hemp-derived nutritional benefits of the plant.

According to STIIIZY, each can is crafted to provide a euphoric vibe without the downsides of alcohol. The market for THC seltzers is becoming increasingly popular as people look for alternatives to alcoholic beverages.

Hemp-Infused Seltzers

The 12-ounce cans of seltzer are infused with 5mg of Hemp D9, designed to help customers recharge their energy and enhance social moments. STIIIZZY seltzers are non-alcoholic, caffeine-free, low-calorie, and low-sugar.

The seltzers are STIIIZY’s first venture into the beverage market. A four-pack of seltzer is $19.99. It is currently only available online, but STIIIZY will soon expand into the physical market. For more information on where you can buy the seltzers, visit STIIIZYHemp.com.

The brand ships directly to residences in select states, and bulk or wholesale orders are available to licensed retailers in some states. A third party also tests the seltzers to ensure quality, potency, and purity. The certificates of analysis are available to view on STIIIZY’s website.

STIIIZY’s Vice President of Business Development said, “We expanded into seltzers to recognize the way our customers enjoy cannabis is expanding to include beverages. We’ve observed the dynamic trends that drive our loyal customers’ behavior and can’t wait to share these flavors inspired by our most popular STIIIZY strains with consumers.”

The global market for cannabis beverages is projected to reach $3.8 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 15.6% from 2023 to 2030. STIIIZY’s new line of products will contribute to this goal, especially with its name recognition.

Flavors

Boasting a perfect blend of taste and relaxation, STIIIZY is debuting four strain-inspired flavors: Strawberry Kiwi, Watermelon Wave, Caribbean Breeze, and Mango Tango. Strawberry Kiwi is a harmonious balance of sweetness and tang, while Watermelon Wave adds a splash of strawberry flavor to the ripe, sweet watermelon flavor. Caribbean Breeze is a vibrant blend of tropical fruits and a crisp finish. Mango Tango introduces sweet mango flavors infused with citrus.

The seltzers are gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan, and made with natural cane sugar. They are different from other seltzers because they use Hydro-Fiber technology for flavor infusion.

Guide Package Protection

STIIIZY offers a guide protection package to protect the shipped packages against loss, damage, theft, and other accidental damage. Orders take three to five days to ship; if the tracking has not been updated in five days, customers can file a claim for a refund. It is important to note that all sales are final.

About STIIIZY

STIIIZY’s mission is to provide consumers with consistent, high-quality, and trusted products inspired by authentic cannabis culture. The Los Angeles brand is a vertically integrated company founded in 2017 by industry experts. The company is committed to positively impacting local communities by investing capital to improve parks and schools and providing assistance and resources to veterans.

Over 2,000 employees serve more than 20,000 customers daily. STIIIZY is the largest privately owned cannabis company and the top-selling cannabis brand in the United States. It has 39 retail outlets in California and three in Michigan.

January 17, 2025
A New Art Fair Comes to LA
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While the art world has felt bleak amid a buckling market, a new art fair is gracing Los Angeles this year. Named for its location, Santa Monica Post Office will run concurrently with Frieze LA and Felix art fair in February.

The new boutique art fair may be small in size, but it is expected to pack a big punch. The LA fair was born from the earlier and smaller project Place des Vosges in Paris, also named for its location, for which a limited number of notable international galleries staged a show together over the last two consecutive years. Noticing some success and a lot of camaraderie, organizer Chris Sharp decided to bring this energy from the city of light to the city of angels.

“The fair landscape has gotten really complicated,” Sharp said in an interview. “The fee structure [of larger fairs] is somewhat prohibitive, and I wanted to create an alternative to that.”

In recent years, art fairs have expanded and become more corporatized, with substantial price increases, in which it can be difficult, if not impossible, for emerging or small galleries to participate, let alone experiment with their presentations. Charging project spaces $2,000 and galleries $6,000—a nominal fee compared to its larger competitors—Santa Monica Post Office will be “much more collegial” with “less pressure to sell.” It is expected to feel more like a large, curated group exhibition rather than an art fair with separate booths set up to sell.

The Fluctuating Value of Creative Work

The move is not entirely unexpected for the art world, which has seen art dealers dissatisfied with the status quo established by art fairs such as the Art Dealers Association of America and the Armory Show.

The art world is not alone in facing these hurdles and feeling the need to crusade for its own worth. In the digital age, the value of creative work is being actively diminished or undervalued from nearly every angle. Even before the last few years, the sheer quantity of ‘content’ being pumped out in the film and television industry across streaming platforms had led to a dilution of its perceived worth among general audiences. The difference between planning a night out in which a viewer has to go to the theater, purchase a ticket, and view a film on its own terms in its own setting and simply flipping a movie on at home is monumental.

While these issues were already in place prior to COVID lockdowns, they were further exacerbated by the one-two punch of theaters closing for a period of time and the introduction of AI to the marketplace. Now, AI generators can produce artwork (whether that be an image, a novel, or a film) in far less time than it takes a human being to do so, leading to an even larger influx of quantity but at a far worse quality. The result has been that getting general audiences to properly value art as a resource and necessity can be a tremendous struggle.

Who Is Featured?

Santa Monica Post Office will feature a total of 28 local, national, and international galleries from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Dallas, Chicago, Toronto, New York, Milan, and Tokyo. The fair will consist exclusively of solo projects, including a presentation of one of Kaari Upson’s last bodies of work via Sprüth Magers, a showcase of Sara Cynwar’s latest work presented by Cooper Cole, and a show of work from the late Lin May Saeed from Chris Sharp Gallery.

The full list of participants is listed below:
- 4649, Tokyo
- Babst Gallery, Los Angeles
- Castle, Los Angeles
- Chris Sharp Gallery, Los Angeles
- Cooper Cole, Toronto
- Cruise Control, Cambria
- Ehrlich Steinberg, Los Angeles
- Et al., San Francisco
- Good Weather, Little Rock, Chicago
- Gordon Robichaux, New York
- Harlesden High Street, London
- House of Seiko, San Francisco
- Kayokoyuki, Tokyo
- King’s Leap, New York
- Laurel Gitlen, New York
- Lomex, New York
- Louis Reed, New York
- Michael Benevento, Los Angeles
- Overduin & Co., Los Angeles
- P.P.O.W., New York
- Roland Ross, Margate
- Sprüth Magers, Berlin, London, Los Angeles, New York
- Tanya Leighton Gallery, Berlin, Los Angeles
- Theta, New York
- Tomio Koyama Gallery, Tokyo
- Tureen, Dallas
- The Untitled Love, Los Angeles
- Zero…, Milan
The fair is set to be an exciting event in the Los Angeles art scene. It is set to draw in art lovers from all over.
January 13, 2025
Medicare Beneficiaries Try eHealth’s LiveAdvise Service to Select Coverage

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This past spring, many senior citizens in a focus group explained how difficult it can be to trust anonymous algorithms when these tools are used to aid their physical health and financial well-being. Whether they’re discussing their plans with a licensed agent over the phone or communicating via online chat services, seniors often struggle to calm their concerns about being misled.

Launching LiveAdvise

This year’s Medicare Annual Enrollment Period experienced a trust deficit among senior citizens. In hopes of effectively addressing this issue, eHealth, a health insurance and Medicare coverage company, launched its latest service—LiveAdvise. This novel option will allow beneficiaries to consult with a live agent in a face-to-face video call online while analyzing and assessing their coverage choices together.

LiveAdvise is a new eHealth feature that enables Medicare beneficiaries to communicate with a licensed agent via video to navigate the process of shopping for enrollment. The service, previously dubbed “Advisor in the Room,” aims to cultivate confidence and trust among seniors as they maneuver the plan selection process. Seniors can better relate to their selected live agent, easing their worries as they make enrollment decisions by using a video call tool. Beneficiaries have shared that being able to see a live agent reduced the stress of choosing coverage plans.

Although video calls aren’t a novel invention, creating a tool to specifically serve the Medicare population presents unique considerations and obstacles. eHealth noticed that no other entities within the healthcare coverage industry have efficiently tackled these complications.

Helping Seniors Leverage Today’s Technology

LiveAdvise was designed to meet beneficiaries where they are in today’s tech. While many may speak in lighthearted jest about the aging generation’s ability to “stay in the know,” it’s much harder in the present to find seniors lagging behind the digital curve. Americans over 50 are as likely to own and use a mobile phone as younger adults. Moreover, eHealth reported that nearly 50% of Medicare beneficiaries will now spend three or more hours online daily.

The overarching problem is not due to a lack of comfort with society’s technological advancements. In fact, eHealth’s Medicare clients consistently leverage the company’s online tools and resources when searching for available plans in their area, identifying plans that offer care from their preferred doctors, and covering prescription drugs at the lowest costs. Despite many beneficiaries proficiently utilizing these online tools, many still require supplemental guidance and advice when making decisions.

After gathering research about the positive effects of working face-to-face with a licensed agent, eHealth identified higher levels of coverage satisfaction for Medicare beneficiaries.

Uniting In-Person and Online Communications

While the concepts of “online” and “in-person” seem to be at odds, eHealth approaches things differently. The Medicare coverage company believes in utilizing technology to support and cultivate meaningful relationships with its customers. Since its founding in 1997, eHealth has aimed to narrow the gap between the in-person and online enrollment shopping experiences.

The company began by providing access to licensed agents via phone, offering personal assistance and advice to Medicare customers. Later, eHealth pioneered live agent chats across various platforms, with optional collaborative browsing to allow employees and customers to leverage screen-sharing features as they reviewed the plan selection and enrollment process together. While these services helped long-term, Medicare beneficiaries still desired additional aid from eHealth’s offerings.

Seniors Can Cultivate Real Relationships with LiveAdvise

LiveAdvise would ultimately become the answer to eHealth’s problem. By providing Medicare beneficiaries with the option to navigate the enrollment and shopping process face-to-face with an agent, the coverage company garnered trust and reassurance in selecting a plan.

Upon testing the LiveAdvise feature last spring, eHealth received positive feedback from its Medicare beneficiaries. Many customers told the company, “Seeing the licensed agent and being able to relate on a personal level makes a real difference.”

These sentiments are exactly why eHealth prioritizes using technology to serve its beneficiaries. As this year’s Medicare Annual Enrollment Period closes, eHealth maintains its goal of easing the coverage selection process for seniors with LiveAdvise in the future.

December 18, 2024
OpenAI Releases Sora to the Public, Shocking Hollywood

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In a move that has shocked Tinsel Town, OpenAI has released Sora, its buzzy generative AI tool capable of creating hyper-realist videos for the public. Upon issuing a post on Monday, OpenAI said that the text-to-video generator is available for public use. While an account must be made to use Sora and sign-ups have been temporarily disabled due to heavy traffic, this software launch has the potential to single-handedly and drastically accelerate Hollywood’s incorporation of AI.

Over the past several years, the entertainment industry has been actively grappling with how to implement AI into its business models. On the one hand, the deployment of the technology has the potential to significantly slash production costs. On the other hand, there has been vehement backlash from audiences and creators alike regarding studios utilizing AI to replace human creatives.

AI in Hollywood

Despite this, mainstream adoption in Hollywood has been slow but steady. In September, Lionsgate announced a partnership with Runway in a deal to see the New York-based AI startup train a new generative AI model on company content.

Shortly after that, some of the directors of the most successful blockbuster films of all time, the Russo Brothers and James Cameron joined the board of directors of AI companies. Many in Hollywood watch These video-focused models closely, particularly in the visual effects industry, where AI has been pitched as a one-size-fits-all solution to many pipeline problems developed over the last decade.

As the quantity of blockbuster television shows and films has increased, more pressure has been placed on visual effects houses to crank out better, faster work at an insane pace. This has resulted in workers being unfairly compensated, “crunched,” and ultimately doing work that isn’t as high-quality as it could be. AI seeks to answer these dilemmas, eliminating human workers despite pleas from everyone in the VFX community to the contrary.

According to the post, Sora’s Capabilities, videos up to 1080p resolution and 20 seconds long can be created in widescreen, vertical, or square aspect ratios. Users can upload their assets to extend, remix, and blend videos, generating new content with a text prompt.

Last month, OpenAI said that ChatGPT now has more than 200 million active users weekly. It plans to introduce ChatGPT Pro, a new $200 monthly subscription tier with unlimited access to OpenAI o1, GPT-4o, and Advanced Voice mode. It’ll continue to offer a Plus tier for $20 per month, which includes early access to new features.

Sora was initially limited to a pool of safety testers, who reported on vulnerabilities related to misinformation and bias, and visual artists, designers, and filmmakers, who gave feedback on improvements. In November, a small group of artists testing Sora leaked access to the tool to protest the company’s treatment of them as “free bug testers” and “PR puppets.”

In an open letter, they stated, “Hundreds of artists provide unpaid labor through bug testing, feedback and experimental work for the program for a $150B valued company.”

Will It Change Hollywood?

A study issued earlier this year surveying 300 leaders across Hollywood reported that three-fourths of respondents indicated that AI tools supported eliminating, reducing, or consolidating jobs at their companies. Over the next three years, nearly 204,000 positions will be adversely affected. Sound engineers, voice actors, concept artists, and workers in visual effects were cited as particularly vulnerable.

OpenAI no longer discloses the sources of data used to train its systems. Artists, authors, and publications have sued the Sam Altman-led company over allegations that it illegally pilfered their work without consent and compensation. Courts ruling against fair use—a legal doctrine that allows the use of copyrighted works without a—could have significant implications for AI leaders.

December 17, 2024
Eating Bagels: Is L.A. Experiencing a Bagel Rennaissance?

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While you can grab a decent dozen bagels from a nearby bagel chain, Los Angeles has never really been known as a bagel town in the same way New York City is.

Yet, now the city may just be experiencing a bagel renaissance, with self-made bagel shops focusing on achieving artisanal excellence that is receiving high praise from the Big Apple.

New York City’s “Bagel Ambassador,” Sam Silverman, consults with start-up bagel shops around the world. Silverman said of L.A.’s bagel scene, “In L.A., there tends to be a much bigger emphasis on the presentation and overall experience than just the food itself.” Silverman stated that, in N.Y.C., bagels are curated for convenience—they are closed sandwiches you can grab and go.

“There is not an expectation for long lines, with equally relaxed atmospheres, and beautiful open-face sandwiches,” he says. “The aesthetics are more Instagrammable.”

Three L.A. bagel shops helping create a bagel culture in the city are Belle’s Delicatessen & Bar, Hank’s Bagels, and Daniel’s Bagels.

Belle’s Delicatessen & Bar

Nick Schreiber co-founded Belle’s Bagels with his high school buddy J.D. Rocchio after reminiscing about their favorite childhood bagel shops. Sam’s on Larchmont. The Bagel Broker. I & Joy Bagels. The duo was inspired to bring bagels back to L.A. and launched Belle’s Bagels in 2012 as a pop-up “before pop-ups were pop-ups.”

Obsessed with making the ideal bagel, the co-founders watched YouTube clips, going frame by frame to learn about and analyze the techniques and factory setups in them.

What’s the secret to making a great bagel? Schreiber said that a great bagel must have “textural contrast, a good crust, and a little fluff and a little chew.”

Schreiber loves bagels that “still derive sweetness from barley malt syrup,” which is used in beer making and baking and is the signature sweetener of a New York-style bagel. “If you need a frame—it’s Grape Nuts. That’s what I look for.”

When it comes to Belle’s Bagels style, it’s hard to describe, according to Schreiber, who said, “It’s more of an emotion than anything … We’re just trying to make the food the grandma would make with a full sleeve of tats and septum piercing.”

Hank’s Bagels (Burbank, Sherman Oaks, Calabasas)

Blowing up in 2019, just a few months before the pandemic shut everything down, Trevor Faris and his wife Kelly opened Hank’s Bagels. Faris had a background somewhat bagel-adjacent, having baked sourdough as a cook in other kitchens. But when the chance to lease a pinhole-sized restaurant space just a block from Bob’s Big Boy in Burbank popped up, the couple imagined a sort of focaccia-forward sandwich shop.

The bagel shop was an immediate hit, with doors opening at 8 a.m. and selling out by 10 a.m. It was clear the people of Burbank really loved some bagels.

Surviving throughout the pandemic, having shifted to deliveries, the couple now takes Hank’s Bagels via a food truck that does catering events and pops up at The Platform in Culver City on Fridays and Saturdays.

Faris says the secret to the perfect bagel is “time … you have to be willing to take the time to develop dough.

Daniel’s Bagels (Palms)

Relative bagel newcomer Daniel’s Bagels opened up over the summer. Founded by Daniel Messinger, who spent a lot of time reading online recipes and watching YouTube videos about bagels during the pandemic, Daniel’s Bagels whips up smaller bagels, preferring the rip-and-dip smaller side of things.

Opening in June, Messinger said, “The response has been great. We’ve become part of a lot of people’s routines. Walk over, get some bagels.”

“In the first few weeks, we were selling out early, so we had to compensate. We just kept up with the capacity limits and found a way to add more staff,” he added.

Now, on their busiest days, they make between 1,000 and 1,500 bagels.

Messinger said the secret to a great bagel “doesn’t require a crazy amount of knowledge. But to make a really good bagel takes a lot of practice and trial and error.”

December 12, 2024
The Ultimate Guide to Cannabis Dining in Los Angeles

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Los Angeles is the epicenter for cannabis dining. From infused gourmet dishes to BYOB (“Bring Your Own Bud”) hangouts, the city offers a spectrum of experiences for food enthusiasts and cannabis-conscious connoisseurs. Now, it’s time for a culinary tour of the best cannabis-friendly dining spots that L.A. has to offer.

Cannabis Meets Fine Dining

Picture this: a well-crafted dish arrives at your table with an aroma carrying a hint of herbal sophistication. This is not your typical dining experience. In L.A., cannabis and cuisine are intertwined. This coupling creates sensory adventures that elevate the art of dining. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a curious newcomer, these establishments push culinary boundaries while celebrating the herb that unites their patrons.

Rainbow Bar & Grill

A legend in his own right, the Rainbow Bar & Grill offers a unique BYOB experience—except here, the “B” stands for bud. While the food is cannabis-infused, the venue exudes a vibe that welcomes the cannabis community.

Since the 1950s, Rainbow has been a Hollywood icon frequented by stars like Marilyn Monroe, John Lennon, and Janis Joplin. Enjoy lunch or dinner surrounded by a backdrop of music history, which makes it the perfect spot for cannabis lovers and culture enthusiasts.

Popcultivate: A Chef-Driven Cannabis Experience

Popcultivate takes cannabis dining to an entirely new level. This chef-led venture combines organic, sun-grown cannabis with luxury ingredients while offering curated menus focused on sustainability and seasonal flavors.

Their dishes incorporate a standard dose of 5 mg THC for a balanced experience. From artisanal-infused cocktails to psychedelic culinary creations, Popcultivate redefines the marriage of food and cannabis. Are you looking for a one-of-a-kind catering service? Popcultivate also plans bespoke events that blend sophistication with just the right bud.

Cannabis Café: Where Brunch Meets Blood

As the first legal cannabis Café in the U.S., this spot is a trailblazer. Located in the heart of L.A., the Cannabis Café offers a welcoming space where patrons can enjoy their favorite meals alongside cannabis.

Their infused brunch menu has become a must-try, featuring dishes that blend organic ingredients with cannabis to create a harmonious balance. It’s the perfect place to connect with like-minded individuals while indulging in high-quality food and herbs.

Cheba Bakery: Sweet Treats with a Cannabis Kick

Cheba Bakery is your go-to spot for premium cannabis edibles. Known for their attention to detail, Cheba’s treats are perfectly balanced in flavor and dosage. Whether you’re new to edibles or a seasoned pro, the baked goods promise an enjoyable experience.

From cookies to cakes, each item is infused with top-tier THC, providing a delightful way to explore the sweeter side of cannabis cuisine.

Cannabis Supper Club: An Exclusive Dining Experience

For those seeking an elevated experience, the Cannabis Supper Club offers a membership-based fine dining journey. Each event is carefully curated to pair exquisite dishes with premium strains for a symphony of flavors.

The club prides itself on its exclusivity. It delivers personalized menus and intimate settings that make every event unforgettable. With a focus on fresh ingredients and a sophisticated ambiance, the Cannabis Supper Club is a must for connoisseurs.

Bull & Dragon: Redefining Cannabis Catering

Bull & Dragon remains a standout in cannabis dining through their private events, known as “The Herb Project.”

Their catering services fuse fine dining, natural ingredients, and cannabis innovation. Menus are inspired by seasonal and local produce so that each dish is as fresh as it is flavorful. Bull & Dragon transforms cannabis dining into a luxurious, bespoke experience for special occasions.

Why L.A. Leads the Cannabis Dining Scene

Los Angeles has solidified its place as a leader in cannabis dining by offering an unmatched blend of culinary artistry and cannabis culture. These establishments create immersive communal experiences that celebrate the herb.

Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgia of Rainbow Bar & Grill, the artistry of Popcultivate, or the exclusivity of the Cannabis Supper Club, L.A.’s cannabis dining scene promises something extraordinary for everyone. Bon appétit—and enjoy the journey!

November 25, 2024
Shohei Ohtani’s Dog Took Center Stage at Dodgers’ Victory Parade

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On Friday, the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrated their World Series victory over the New York Yankees, in a historic comeback win in Game 5, with a long-awaited open-top bus parade through downtown LA, followed by a pep rally at Dodger Stadium.

The parade started at City Hall, where fans gathered starting at 6:00 AM, and ended in the area of Fifth and Flowers Streets. It’s estimated that approximately 250,000 fans flooded the streets, wearing Dodgers jerseys that turned the cityscape into a vibrant sea of blue as they cheered and waved to the team passing by. The atmosphere was electric, with fans chanting and music blasting.

Among the highlights, fans witnessed Shohei Ohtani proudly lift his dog, Decoy, who was sporting a number 17 Dodgers jersey and a special parade access pass clipped to his collar. Decoy later enjoyed pets from young fans along the route, becoming an instant fan favorite.

As the parade concluded at a sun-soaked Dodger Stadium, Ohtani addressed the 42,000 fans gathered. “This is so special,” he said in English as his teammates celebrated alongside him. “I’m just so honored to be here and to be part of this team. Congratulations, Los Angeles, thank you fans.”

The Dodgers’ last victory parade came over three decades ago. After winning the World Series in 2020 without the chance to celebrate due to the pandemic, and the last parade-worthy win before that in 1988, the city turned out in full force for the occasion. Some fans climbed fences and traffic lights for a better view, while others decorated windows along the route, and waved flags, scarves, and handkerchiefs.

Inside Dodger Stadium, rapper Ice Cube opened the celebration with a performance of “It’s a Good Day,” with Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts dancing as players, families and staff joined them on the field. As each player spoke, the crowd erupted in cheers, especially for World Series MVP Freddie Freeman, who achieved a career milestone this season despite stepping away temporarily to care for his three-year-old son, Max, during an illness.

“What’s up, LA?” Freeman called out as he stepped up to the podium, with the crowd chanting his name. He reflected on his journey and said, “I only had one leg but I got a whole group of guys that had my back all year.” He also shared his gratitude for his teammates, “From the bottom of my heart, three months ago… when I came back after my son got sick, you guys showed out for my family and I. That was one of the greatest experiences I’ve ever had on the field.”

Earlier this year, Freeman’s son, Max, was diagnosed with Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare neurological disorder in which the immune system attacks nerve cells. Max suffered full paralysis in July, prompting Freemad to leave the Dodgers temporarily to be with his family at the hospital. Following signs of Max’s recovery, Freeman returned to the field in August. Freeman’s family and Max joined him for Friday’s parade and stadium celebrations.

The festivities also honored Dodgers legend Fernando Valenzuela, who would have turned 64 on Friday. Several renditions of “Happy Birthday” were sung in honor of Valenzuela who passed away last month just three days before the Series began. The team commemorated him through the series, as well, with a uniform patch featuring his name and number. On Friday night, LA’s City Hall was lit in green, white, red, and blue– the Mexican flag and Dodgers colors– to honor his legacy.

November 8, 2024
Stars for Harris: Celebrities Endorsing Kamala

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After gradually shrinking away from Joe Biden in the final weeks of his campaign, many of the biggest entertainment stars are now throwing their support behind Kamala Harris. Like many billionaires and big donors who had soured on the president, stars seem invigorated by the prospect of a Harris campaign. While Biden’s campaign seemed like a foregone conclusion for the longest time, the switch to Harris has served to inject some much-needed enthusiasm into the Democratic party and its supporters.

While some celebrities have expressed their support online or through donations, others have performed at Harris rallies. The Democratic National Convention was a star-studded event, with everyone from John Legend to Julia Louis-Dreyfus coming out to show support for Harris’ campaign efforts.

These are some of the biggest Hollywood names publicly endorsing Harris.

Bruce Springsteen

“Donald Trump is the most dangerous candidate for President in my lifetime,” Bruce Springsteen said in a video published on Instagram on Thursday. Bruce Springsteen endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in the same video, saying that he sees her as the future of America.

Ethan Hawke

Ethan Hawke affirmed his support for Kamala Harris in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter.

Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell

Siblings Billie Eilish and Finneas O’Connell took to Instagram on National Voter Registration Day to post a video endorsing Kamala Harris.

“We can’t let extremists control our lives, our freedoms, and our future,” said O’Connell, adding, “The only way to stop them and the dangerous Project 2025 agenda is to vote and elect Kamala Harris.”

Taylor Swift

Pop star Taylor Swift endorsed Harris for president on September 10, minutes after the ABC News presidential debate between the vice president and former President Donald Trump ended.

Swift’s efforts alone drove unprecedented online traffic to voter registration sites and Harris’ campaign site. Notably, Swift’s endorsement of his opponent also outraged Donald Trump, who had previously attempted to claim Swift’s vote as his own prematurely because he was fooled by some poorly-made AI art of her fans wearing Trump regalia.

George Clooney

After publishing an opinion piece calling on Biden to step aside earlier this month, the actor and Democratic donor endorsed Harris while speaking on CNN on Tuesday.

“President Biden has shown what true leadership is,” Clooney said. “He’s saving democracy once again. We’re all so excited to do whatever we can to support Vice President Harris in her historic quest.”

Oprah Winfrey

Oprah made a surprise appearance at this year’s DNC and told voters to “choose common sense over nonsense.” A registered independent, she appealed to undecided voters and told them that “decency and respect are on the ballot.”

Aaron Sorkin

After Biden announced that he was ending his reelection bid, Sorkin posted a message on X via a friend’s account: “Harris for America!”

Spike Lee

The iconic director kept his endorsement short, sweet, and full of emojis. On Sunday, he posted a picture of Harris on Instagram with a caption full of purple hearts, fire symbols, and clapping hands. “ONCE AGAIN A SISTA COMES TO DA RESCUE,” he wrote.

Julia Louis-Dreyfus

In an interview with Stephen Colbert, the Emmy-winning actress joked that Harris is nothing like her character on the show, Selina Meyer.

“On ‘Veep,’ I played a narcissistic, megalomaniac sociopath, and that is not Kamala Harris,” she said. “It might be another candidate in the race.”

Olivia Rodrigo

On Tuesday, Rodrigo posted a clip of Harris’s first campaign rally in an Instagram Story, which she captioned with the raising hands emoji. Rodrigo has long been a supporter of Biden’s administration, and that has now carried over to Harris.

Barbra Streisand

In a recent interview, Streisand emphasized that Harris “will work to restore women’s reproductive freedom” and build on her accomplishments as Vice President.

Mark Hamill

The man most famous for playing Luke Skywalker is also a well-known Biden supporter—and, now, Harris supporter. He’s even hosted numerous “White Guys for Harris” online gatherings to raise funding for Harris’ campaign.

Pink

The singer Pink was another DNC headliner, where she and her daughter, Willow, sang an acoustic version of her single, “What About Us.”

They performed just after a group of people impacted by gun violence took the stage. Pink has spoken out against gun violence in the past, as she faced criticism from some conservatives in 2019 for reposting the poem, “America Is a Gun.”

October 10, 2024
Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Agency Outlaws Deputy Gangs

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A new policy aimed at outlawing deputy gangs inside the department has been revealed by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Agency (LASD). County authorities have been concerned about this long-standing issue for many years.

The “Prohibition – Law Enforcement Gangs and Hate Groups” policy, which was presented on Wednesday, forbids deputies from becoming involved in law enforcement gangs or from pushing others to join them. It is said that this issue has been plaguing the department for more than 50 years.

Deputy Gangs Over the Years

County officials have identified 19 deputy gangs over the years, indicating that these gangs have a long history within the agency, according to investigations into their existence. Since the early 1990s, these gangs have been connected to at least 59 court cases that have resulted in settlement payments totaling more than $54 million for occurrences involving these purported criminal groups inside the LASD.

According to the new policy, the agency will investigate claims that these groups exist and specify how to call for possible prosecution. Targeting a systematic problem that has undermined public trust for decades is a significant step forward for the LASD. The state of California already had laws against law enforcement gangs in 2021 (Penal Code 13670), and in 2023, it approved additional charges outlawing the formation of hate groups inside law enforcement organizations.

The department has been under fire for the acts of these gangs and the alleged culture of secrecy that has surrounded their operations; thus, the regulation comes at a crucial time. Although others, including Inspector General Max Huntsman, think this is a positive move, there are worries that it could fall short of the requirements set by monitoring organizations.

“For the first time in the history of our department, when you go through a process for captain and above, you are asked about tattoos,” LA County Sheriff Robert Luna said, referencing tattoos that have been connected to violent deputy gangs. County investigators have long cited tattoos as one way to identify deputies involved in these groups, with tattoos linked to the Banditos and Executioners gangs gaining particular notoriety.

An On-Going Problem

Deputy gangs were compared to a “cancer” in the department in a damning 70-page study published last year by the Civilian Oversight Commission, which is made up of lawyers, retired federal judges, and leaders of the community. The study chronicled the origins of these gangs to at least 1973, listing the deputy gangs that were active in the department, including the 3000 Boys, Wayside Whities, Banditos, and Reapers.

Investigations have also focused on the Executioners, another group inside the LASD. The executioners were a “violent gang” that attacked other officers, and they were mainly stationed at the Compton Sheriff’s Station. Members of the Executioners allegedly exchanged tattoos of a skull, wore a Nazi helmet, and threw “998 parties” to commemorate deputy-involved shootings.

The new policy does not remove the legal obstacles. An earlier investigation of these gangs by the county’s Office of the Inspector General was halted by a lawsuit filed by the Association for Los Angeles Deputy Sheriffs (ALDS). ALDS filed a lawsuit against the county and the OIG in 2023, arguing that the probe would infringe on deputies’ constitutional rights to privacy and their ability to work. The court issued A preliminary injunction, stopping the probe in favor of ALDS.

While arguing that deputies should have due process, ALDS president Richard Pippin said the group does not support misbehavior.

“The ACLU’s own website states, ‘Every person in this country should have the same basic rights,’” Pippin said in response to criticism from advocacy groups. “Apparently, disdain for law enforcement has led some in their organization to the conclusion that this does not apply to peace officers.”

September 24, 2024
10 Incredible Gallery Shows in LA for This Fall Season

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Los Angeles is known for its incredible gallery shows, but this fall season they certainly seem to be bringing out their best selection. These 10 fall shows range from full-room artistic displays to intimate examinations of modern life, and they are sure to have something for everyone to enjoy.

“Thinking Out Loud”

Recognizing local and international artists since 2000, the Vielmetter Contemporary Art Gallery in LA is featuring selected artworks from interdisciplinary artist Genevieve Gaignard. Her work acts as an exploration of her biracial identity through the perspective of contemporary American society, imposing introspective themes on a backdrop of vintage wallpaper. The gallery features a new selection of collage pieces by the artist called “Thinking Out Loud,” accompanied by custom wall paint to enhance the visual environment. The display will run from September 21 to November 2, 2024.

“strike the dust”

A recent addition to the LA gallery scene, the New York-based Michael Werner Gallery will feature an exhibition of Florian Krewer’s latest work. Titled “strike the dust,” the show is a continued personal exploration of what it means to be alive in modern society, examining themes of loss, loneliness, and love. This exhibit will continue from September 13 to November 16, 2024.

“Mojotech”

Since 1999, Roberts Projects has been a diverse and ambitious program intently focused on museum-quality installations. This fall, they are featuring Betye Saar’s “Mojotech,” a piece that ambitiously merges ritual objects with electronic parts, emphasizing the impact of technology on the natural world. The piece combines African sculpture and was created during a residency at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Visitors are encouraged to leave offerings, with the display running from September 14, 2024, to February 28, 2025.

“Through the Vanishing Point”

At The Box, a gallery focused on contemporary painters, sculptors, and photographers, Eugenia P. Butler’s (1947–2008) work is featured in “Through the Vanishing Point,” focusing on Butler’s fixation on transformative states. Her art continues to have a tremendous influence on the conceptual and experimental sides of art. With no specified end date, the display begins on September 15, 2024.

“nativemanson”

International art gallery Sprüth Magers, a leader amongst contemporary display spaces, is hosting Arthur Jafa’s first solo exhibition in LA, titled “nativemanson.” For 30 years, Jafa has explored his identity as a black man from Tupelo, Mississippi through film, sculpture, and murals. The exhibit will feature BEN GAZARRA, Jafa’s latest film, and a remix of Martin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver.

“The Open Window”

François Ghebaly is known for its network of multi-generational, international, and LA-based artists, and now the French painter and visual artist Brooklin A. Soumahoro joins their ranks. The collection of 10 abstract images is an ode to southern France, inspired by Henri Matisse’s 1905 masterwork Open Window, Collioure. Having spent years researching color theory for his project, “The Open Window,” the opportunity to see the display remains available from September 7 to October 12, 2024.

“Azaleas”

Located in LA’s Koreatown, Commonwealth and Council is featuring Lotus L. Kang’s “Azaleas.” Born in Toronto and based in New York, Kang is known for immersive floor-to-ceiling installations made to explore concepts of becoming and reflection. This display runs from September 21 to October 26, 2024.

“Concrete Is Fluid”

Honor Fraser is a contemporary art gallery with a focus on emergent technology and alternative interpretations of traditional mediums. Lauren Bon’s “Concrete Is Fluid” serves as the perfect fit for Honor Fraser’s perspective, using room-scale installations to contrast and interweave the industrial and natural landscapes. This exhibit will continue from September 14 to December 14, 2024.

“L.A. Story”

Founded in 1992, Hauser & Wirth is home to displays of contemporary and modern art in several locations. In West Hollywood, they are featuring a compelling display based on Steve Martin’s 1991 film “L.A. Story.” The studio worked with Martin to capture the LA of the film and contrast it against the LA of today, examining the way art has changed. This display runs from September 12, 2024, to January 4, 2025.

“At Home: Alice Neel in the Queer World”

The David Zwirner gallery represents over 70 artists around the world, and the space now welcomes Alice Neel. “At Home: Alice Neel in the Queer World” is a collection of Neel’s paintings, depicting individuals in the queer community and their particular relationship with the artist. This is Neel’s second appearance in a David Zwimmer gallery, but the first in LA.

September 17, 2024
Will There Be Lasting Benefits From the LA 2028 Olympics?

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Now that the Paris 2024 Olympics are over, and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass accepted the Olympic flag in Paris last month, the beginning of the runup to the 2028 Games in the City of Angels has started. The question on many city officials’ minds is: will Los Angeles maximize the opportunities that hosting the Olympics offers?

The Mayor announced this past August that the 2028 Olympics would be “car-free,” which may be challenging in a city that is known for being dependent on its freeways.

However, the car-free announcement isn’t too firm, either, with a spokesperson clarifying last week that “most LA28 venues will not require spectators to drive in their cars and will be accessible by public transportation and Games-specific transportation systems.”

Yet, limiting car travel so significantly in Los Angeles is still an ambitious goal. Even if it is possible, many city leaders are questioning whether such improvements during the 2028 Games will result in lasting effects for the city.

There is a chance the city improvements may not benefit L.A. in the long run, as Olympic planners arrange to borrow 2,700 buses to shuttle athletes and ticket holders to the event, which the regional transportation authority is calling “games enhanced transit.” While these buses will help decrease car traffic, they cannot do anything long-lasting for L.A. because they will need to return to their lenders when the 2028 Games end—ending what enhancement they provide during the games and resuming traffic.

Other temporary measures that the city plans to take during the 2028 Olympics is limiting some streets and freeway lanes for Olympic-related shuttles only. As with the borrowed buses, this will only temporarily relieve city traffic, but the street and freeway limitations could disappear as soon as the torch is passed onto the next city.

The Games do offer L.A. transportation money and benefits, and City Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky, who sits on the region’s Metro board, stressed the importance of the city not just relying on short-term arrangements to handle the influx of visitors during the Games. It’s crucial, she said, to “use the Olympics to accelerate a lot of the work that we know we need to do anyway, around ‘first-mile, last-mile,’ around connectivity, around bus and bike lanes.”

Yaroslavsky stated that such improvement would help visitors during the Games but would also remain after the Games end, relieving Metro of some of the obligations to pay for them and providing long-term improvements for the city.

These projects could exceed $200 million combined, so securing outside support for them as part of the Games would be a significant benefit to local taxpayers, according to Yaroslavsky.

Other improvements being discussed include modernizing stations and improving streets and sidewalks that visitors during the Games will use to get to venues.

While the Los Angeles transit system does need work, the city was chosen for the 2028 Olympics in part because it already has the stadium and many other amenities that hosting the Games requires. Due to this, L.A. could potentially gain less than other cities, like Atlanta, for putting on the two-week multi-sport event.

L.A. already has the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, which was the home of both the 1932 and 1984 Games and will be the scene for the opening and closing ceremonies—becoming the first facility to ever perform the role three times. But the area also has the Rose Bowl and SoFi Stadium, as well as many other indoor arenas for basketball, gymnastics, and other sports.

With many projects already in the works for transportation needed to host the Games, local governments cannot expect the Olympics to pay for other major capital investments that are currently underway, which makes Yaroslavsky’s approach reasonable. Let the Games pay for the improvements that would help the 2028 Olympics be a better experience, but that will also create lasting effects and free local dollars to pay for other parts of the growing system.

Yaroslavsky rightly noted, “The Olympics will be a failure if we don’t leverage it to go get what we need.”

September 13, 2024
What to Know About LA’s New Intuit Dome

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The Inuit Dome: A New Era for the L.A. Clippers

The L.A. Clippers have been waiting a long time for a court of their own, after sharing a court with their rival for 25 years and enduring impossible game schedules and relocations. On August 15, 2024, they got their new home arena.

Approved by Inglewood in 2017 and having a groundbreaking ceremony in 2021, it took $2 billion and three years for the basketball team’s Inuit Dome to officially open. The opening days were kicked off with a concert by Bruno Mars to get fans and players excited for their new court experience.

“[They] deserve the ultimate home court,” said billionaire Clippers owner Steve Ballmer, “You’re going to have it here in Inglewood.”

As for now, there’s a lot to learn about the brand-new venue. Whether you’re wondering how to get to the big game, what you can expect inside, or what’s on the menu, this is what you need to know.

Finding Your Way

Built across from the recently constructed So-Fi Stadium and situated between the 405 and 110 freeways, it’s not a tough place to find. There’s a parking structure on Prairie Avenue and 102nd Street, connected via a pedestrian bridge to the plaza entrance. The Inuit Dome is also accessible by ten bus stops, which will put anyone a short walk away.

Artworks in the Arena

Outside the arena, the plaza is flanked by wide staircases leading to a restaurant, two bars, and a massive team store to satisfy a fan’s needs. Of course, there’s also a regulation basketball court at the entrance meant for public use, making the broader structure feel open and inviting.

Beyond the plaza, one of the world’s most expensive arenas waits. It’s huge, with panels designed to make it look like a basketball hoop, lit with animated lights that put on a show during the games at night.

Above the public court, the digital artwork “Living Arena” by Refik Anadol spans from one side of the court to the other, using LAX flight information and Inglewood weather data to create a beautiful data landscape for casual players to observe. The Clippers sourced this, and five other public installations by local artists for the plaza, making the arena more alive with culture. The dome’s lights themselves are another installation by Jennifer Steinkamp. Called “Swoosh,” they help give the arena its basketball hoop feel. “Cultural Playground” by Michael Massenburg is an encapsulation of LA’s cultural identity in a mural, and “Spring to Life” by Kyungmi Kim is a stained glass mosaic inspired by Centinela Springs, which once sustained the Tongva people. Of course, the installations wouldn’t be complete without “Sails” by Glenn Kaino, an imposing clipper boat for the team’s name.

Inside the Dome

Within the arena, you’ll be met with a massive Halo Board designed to let everyone participate in the game. It’s 40,000 square feet of LED lights hovering above the court, letting the game unfold more dynamically and with real-time information.

Even the comfort in the Inuit Dome is state-of-the-art. In each chair, there’s a USB port for keeping your phone charged, a controller for playing games that appear on the Halo Board, and more leg room than anywhere in the NBA. They also come with built-in decibel gauges, because whoever’s loudest will get discounts on Clippers food and merchandise. With your discount, head to the fully automated concessions market, designed to grab and go by paying with your phone at the gate.

The Inuit Dome is also fully carbon neutral. Equipped with a vast array of solar panels and naturally acclimatized, they even took carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and used it in the arena’s concrete foundation.

Tickets and Events

Beyond a season membership, tickets aren’t yet available. There are several upcoming concerts, however, scheduled for the next few months.

August 28, 2024