Author: Brianna Kamienski

Dismantling Homeless Encampments: Newsom’s New Order Receives Pushback

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Last Thursday, California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an order to state officials instructing them to dismantle homeless encampments, calling on officials across California to “do their part.”

“This executive order directs state agencies to move urgently to address dangerous encampments while supporting and assisting the individuals living in them—and provides guidance for cities and counties to do the same. The state has been hard at work in addressing this crisis on our streets. There are simply no more excuses. It’s time for everyone to do their part.”

Newsom’s order comes shortly after the Supreme Court ruling opened the doorway for cities to clear homeless encampments and ban outdoor sleeping without offering shelter. Despite Newsom’s official instructions, the Supreme Court ruling leaves many of the decisions under the jurisdiction of local cities—which means that the governor cannot force cities to act.

Newsom stated, “California remains committed to respecting the dignity and fundamental human needs of all people, and the state will continue to work with compassion to provide individuals experiencing homelessness with the resources they need to better their lives.” However, after the Supreme Court ruling, state officials had opposing viewpoints regarding the impact of Newsom’s new order.

L.A. County Supervisors’ Chair Lindsey Horvath called the Grants Pass decision “unconscionable” and ineffective, opting to call for continued efforts to add more shelter and affordable housing for the homeless community. At a news conference hours after the ruling, she said the solution “is not arrest. It is not pushing people from community to community.”

“I want to be crystal clear,” she added. “The criminalization of homelessness and poverty is dangerous. It does not work, and it will not stand in Los Angeles County.”

Horvath and Supervisor Hilda Solis have proposed a policy that would not allow L.A. County jails to hold people arrested for violating anti-camping ordinances, especially when many local cities have very small jails and rely largely on county jails.

Yet, Horvath and Solis were not the only voices raising the alarm on Newsom’s new order. At the same news conference where Horvath voiced her opinion, L.A. Mayor Karen Bass called the decision “unfortunate,” believing it “will usher in a new wave of criminalization” elsewhere. Bass slammed the court’s ruling, saying it should “not be used as an excuse for cities across the country to attempt to arrest their way out of this problem or hide the homelessness crisis in neighboring cities or in jail.”

“This is a rehash of the 1990s when we couldn’t figure out how to deal with a social problem, like addiction and gang violence, [and] we just decided we were going to lock everybody up,” Bass said at the news conference.

Despite the heavy opposition to Newsom’s new directive, advocates argue that the new order will encourage cities to “develop housing and shelter solutions in tandem with support services provided by County government. This formula, which is largely based on partnerships, is how we can deliver permanent results. No single entity can achieve that,” as Supervisor Kathryn Barger stated.

For Orange County homeless encampments, officials have stated they will do what is appropriate for their local communities while remaining compassionate to the homeless population.

July 30, 2024
Reality TV Filming Is on the Decline in Los Angeles

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The grim landscape of reality television in the Los Angeles area was highlighted by another significant drop in the second quarter of 2024 following a rough start to the year. Figures negated expectations that unscripted production would accelerate despite industry contraction and belt-tightening coming out of the strikes.

The latest production report is from the local film office, FilmLA, which found that on-location filming of the format from April to June this year fell nearly 57 percent to 868 total shoot days compared to the same period in 2023. In the previous quarter, reality television production was also behind its 2023 levels, down roughly 18 percent to 1,317 shoot days.

Reality television in 2024 has had some bright spots during the second quarter, with Selling Sunset, John Mulaney Presents: Everybody’s in LA, American Idol, 90 Day Fiance, The Golden Bachelorette, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, and Accident, Suicide or Murder all being filmed in the City of Angels area during the quarter. Unfortunately, there was still a significant drop in production days for reality television that brought down the report’s entire television category, which has typically been an anchor of production in the area.

“Generally speaking, unscripted television is a location-heavy format that generates significant permit volume,” FilmLA’s VP of Integrated Communications, Philip Sokoloski, said in a statement. “The employment impact of reality production is lower than it is for scripted TV, and projects are not incentive-eligible through the State of California. It remains an important part of LA’s production economy.”

The FilmLA report is just one of the latest diagnostics showing the downward spiral of reality television production, which has also narrowed job availability, tightened budgets, and made executives even more cautious about taking risks on new project concepts.

A contributing factor in the decline of reality television in the area is that the category does not qualify for tax credits in California. This means that productions take on the full cost of the project without subsidies, unlike other major production hubs, like Georgia and New Mexico, which crafted their programs to make such content eligible.

General manager for nonfiction production companies’ trade association, NPACT, Michelle Van Kempen, added in a statement, “The unfortunate reality for unscripted production in California is that not only is the volume of business down across the industry, but because other states (and countries, for that matter) offer producer-friendly incentives in unscripted, business is increasingly going elsewhere.”

Producer Patrick Caligiuri (Naked and Afraid, American Idol) expressed little surprise over FilmLA’s data, stating it’s “not surprising because the numbers reflect what everybody in the industry has been feeling over the last year.” The producer rang the alarm on the state of reality television in a TikTok post that said, “Reality TV is dead.” He says that the struggle continues for many workers. “No one’s saying they’re making the same rate they were making before. Everybody’s saying at this point, ‘I’m lucky to get a job.’”

Currently, California is the only major production hub that doesn’t allow above-the-line costs to qualify for incentives; however, starting in 2025, credits will become refundable for the first time since the program’s creation in 2009.

July 25, 2024
Los Angeles Faces Inflection Point in Battle Against Homelessness

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Los Angeles stands at a pivotal moment in its fight against homelessness, with the coming months set to reveal whether the city will achieve significant progress or face growing frustration with its leadership.

Recently, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority released its annual count, revealing a slight dip in the number of people without housing. Conducted in late January, the count found 75,312 homeless individuals in Los Angeles County, a marginal decrease of less than 1%. In the city of Los Angeles, the count was 45,252, marking a 2.2% drop.

While these numbers aren’t exactly a reason to rejoice, they do represent the first decline since 2018, stirring cautious optimism. Mayor Karen Bass, at a press conference in MacArthur Park, highlighted the complexity of the situation. “It’s too soon to say we’ve reached a turning point,” she said. “I’m very encouraged and excited that the count is down and that shelter is up, but it’s going to take a while before we can say we’ve gone in a completely new direction.”

Mayor Bass has been more proactive in tackling homelessness than any of her predecessors in the last three decades. Since taking office nearly two years ago, she has concentrated on dismantling encampments and boosting shelter availability. This year’s count shows a 10% drop in street homelessness within the city and a 38% reduction in encampments, reflecting her targeted efforts.

However, challenges persist. The lifting of COVID-era eviction protections has put tens of thousands of Angelenos at risk of losing their homes. In response, Bass directed the Mayor’s Fund to launch a program to protect renters. Additionally, Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s controversial policy of sending migrants to Los Angeles has added to the city’s housing burden, with volunteers stepping in to provide support and connect new arrivals with resources.

Recent legal developments have also introduced potential complications. The U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling that Grants Pass, Oregon, did not violate constitutional protections against “cruel and unusual” punishment by arresting homeless individuals for camping on public property, even without adequate shelter options, may prompt similar measures in Southern California. Such policies could drive more homeless individuals to Los Angeles, straining the city’s resources further.

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors has put forward a November ballot measure to double an existing quarter-cent sales tax for housing and homeless services, aiming to rake in $1.2 billion yearly for housing, mental health care, and substance abuse treatment. Yet, impatience is growing among some supporters. BizFed, a coalition of businesses and employers, has voiced doubts about the new measure. CEO Tracy Hernandez stated, “We backed Measure H in 2017 to provide 10 years of dedicated resources to take care of our unhoused neighbors. However, Los Angeles County’s homeless population grew 43% between 2018 and 2023. We call on our county’s elected leaders to show improvement before demanding more taxpayer dollars.”

Mayor Bass acknowledges the need for visible progress and has emphasized the strong accountability mechanisms included in the November ballot measure to ensure that funds are effectively utilized. “Success breeds confidence, but success can only be achieved with support, and support requires public confidence,” Bass noted.

As Los Angeles wrestles with the tangled mess of homelessness and public trust, the city’s actions in the next few months will be crucial. The tightrope walk of making real progress while keeping public backing will shape the future for tens of thousands of homeless folks in America’s second-biggest city.

July 18, 2024
Bear Relocation: Yellow 2291 Moves from Chatsworth

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This bear, known to wildlife authorities, had been relocated to the mountains after appearing in Chatsworth on Tuesday, but it didn’t hang there for too long. Tagged as Yellow 2291 by the wildlife authorities and fitted with a tracking collar, the bear recently turned up in another tree in a Sylmar neighborhood over the weekend. It eventually came down from a tree in the northern San Fernando Valley.

Bear’s Recent Adventures and Monitoring

This is the same bear spotted Tuesday south of the 118 Freeway in Chatsworth. The bear was filmed climbing a chain-link fence and up a tall tree before being tranquilized and taken away in a pickup truck back to the mountains. A few days later, the bear took another trip down the mountains to Sylmar.

The female bear is estimated to be between 3 and 5 years old and well-known to wildlife authorities. Authorities said she was trapped in the area of Claremont, about 50 miles from Chatsworth in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, last month and taken to Angeles National Forest. Since then, her movements have been monitored along the 210 Freeway corridor and into the Malibu area with the help of a tracking collar.

Jessica West, an environmental scientist for the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, said the collar data on bears’ behavior was exciting. “She actually has had some of the most interesting collar data that we’ve ever seen,” Jessica West, an environmental scientist with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, told NBCLA last week. “She’s just wandering. It might be a little more typical to see that with a male bear, just because being male, they do tend to have, you know, bigger home ranges.”

Image Credits: Unsplash.com

Attempts were made to trap the bear in the Northridge area on July 1 before it trekked to Chatsworth. After being sedated, it fell from a tree onto mats provided by a nearby gym.

California’s Rising Black Bear Population

The population of black bears is also on the rise in California, estimated between 25,000 and 30,000. This is very high compared to the last couple of decades. Black bears have coats in colors such as blue-gray, brown, or black. They love to eat plants, insects, nuts, and berries — and will gladly pick through the contents of a trash can. If the pickings are slim in their natural habitat, they’ll probably look for food elsewhere, placing them in Southern California’s foothill neighborhoods.

The bear population is centered mainly in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and areas to the north and west; only a smaller percentage are in central western and southwestern California. The grizzly bear depicted on the state flag was native to California but has been extinct since the early 1920s.

About half of the state’s bear population lives in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and areas north and west. In contrast, an estimated 10 percent of the black bear population lives in central-western and southwestern California. Although the fearsome grizzly is featured on the state flag, it is no longer found in the California wild. The last grizzly bear seen in California was killed in the early 1920s.

July 10, 2024
Kendrick Lamar’s Purchase of $40 Million Estate Cements West Coast Victory

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Kendrick Lamar recently made headlines after acquiring a luxury estate in Los Angeles worth $40 million. After his highly publicized victory in a rap feud with Drake, this investment has marked a significant milestone in his life. The purchase has positioned Lamar as a major figure in the entertainment industry, showcasing the continued growth of his musical career.

Lamar, a native of Compton, California, chose a lavish residence in Los Angeles’s exclusive Brentwood neighborhood. Located in one of the most prestigious enclaves in the city, this property mirrors his achievements and investment in luxury real estate. The acquisition was followed hot on the heels of a series of professional highs in Lamar’s career, particularly a fierce exchange of diss tracks with Drake, culminating in his “The Pop Out: Ken & Friends” concert on Juneteenth.

Constructed in 2018, Lamar’s new residence is a unique blend of modern and rustic elements, evident in the stunning incorporation of wood and stone. Spanning over 16,200 square feet across three levels, the luxury property features nine bedrooms and 15 bathrooms. Interior aesthetics such as hardwood floors, elevated wooden-beam ceilings, accents of stone, reclaimed wood, and marble further enhance the residence’s grandeur.

The estate comprises all necessary amenities, including dual staircases, an elevator, a wine cellar, a fully equipped gym, a home theater, and a spa with a sauna, steam room, and massage facilities. The gated property is over a sprawling acre of land and includes a three-car garage attached to the side. The high-end kitchen is designed as a central island for dining, and a secondary kitchen serves catering purposes. The master suite on the upper floor comes with a two-sided fireplace and connects the bedroom to a private lounge, a balcony, dual walk-in closets, and bathrooms. The exterior boasts a swimming pool with a Baja shelf and a spa. The estate is complemented by a separate guesthouse.

Lamar’s purchase is considered one of the priciest transactions in Los Angeles. The negotiation was done privately as the home was not listed on the open market. The previous owners, Viet Dinh and his wife, Jennifer Ashworth Dinh, acquired the property in 2019 for $19.5 million. Dinh is a former chief legal and policy officer at Fox Corp.

As the news of the acquisition came shortly after Lamar’s victory over Drake, the feud again sparked discussion among fans and critics alike. The tension between the two rappers started in the spring with subtle jabs in interviews and tracks. The conflict escalated with the release of Drake’s track “First Person Shooter” from his album For All the Dogs, which mentioned J. Cole, Drake, and Lamar as the “big three.” This motivated Lamar’s retaliatory verse on Future’s “Like That,” dismissing the equivalence with “It’s just big me.”

This musical exchange resulted in a lyrical war marked by a volley of diss tracks. Lamar’s “Euphoria” and Drake’s retaliatory “Push Ups” and “Taylor Made Freestyle” intensified the tension. Additionally, Drake’s use of AI-generated vocals of the late Tupac Shakur without approval eventually led to a retraction of one track, which overshadowed discussions over the feud.

Each new track by the two rappers received rapid analysis as fans and critics dissected the lyrics for hidden meanings and potential responses. Lamar’s “6:16 in LA” further fueled conversation due to the mention of a significant date, which fans linked to various cultural and personal references.

The feud further heightened at Lamar’s “The Pop Out: Ken & Friends” concert in Inglewood. The show celebrated Lamar’s West Coast roots while making a public declaration of his victory over Drake. Featuring multiple West Coast rappers and athletes, the concert saw Lamar performing “Not Like Us” five times as the most popular fan-preferred song based on the beef.

Kendrick Lamar’s purchase of this luxurious Brentwood estate symbolizes his success in the music industry while making a bold statement about his West Coast victory.

July 3, 2024
Chris Hemsworth Honored with Hollywood Walk of Fame Star

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Hollywood. Wander along Hollywood Boulevard, and you’ll stumble upon a couple thousand names of folks who’ve spun their dreams into reality. As you stroll down Hollywood Boulevard, you’ll find thousands of names etched in fame, from timeless legends like Marilyn Monroe to gigantic fictional characters like Godzilla. In a fitting addition to its illustrious lineup, Chris Hemsworth received his very own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, just a day before the U.S. premiere of the eagerly awaited film, “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga.”

On Thursday, Hemsworth thanked his fans, castmates, and family, taking a moment to specifically thank his parents. The God of Thunder said his parents raised him “with the belief that if you do choose something you’re passionate about, if you lean into something you love with your heart and soul, then the purpose and the meaning is laid out in front of you.”

Gathered for the grand star reveal at the Ovation Hollywood shopping hub on Hollywood Boulevard was none other than Robert Downey Jr., Hemsworth’s fellow superhero from four “Avengers” escapades. Also on hand were George Miller, the mastermind who directed and co-wrote the post-apocalyptic action saga, along with his “Furiosa” co-star, the illustrious Anya Taylor-Joy.

Born in Melbourne, Australia on August 11, 1983, Hemsworth kicked off his acting journey Down Under in 2002, appearing in a pair of episodes of the fantasy series “Guinevere Jones” as none other than King Arthur. While the actor gained more experience and recognition in Australian television, Hemsworth headed for the big, American screen. Hemsworth’s inaugural American film gig came in 2009’s sci-fi flick “Star Trek,” where he popped up in the opening scene as George Kirk, the first officer of the Federation starship USS Kelvin and the father of James T. Kirk, the future captain of the Enterprise.

Despite those memorable five minutes, Hemsworth’s love and passion propelled him toward an impressive film career. With a career marked by a slew of successful franchises, he’s also made his mark on streaming platforms with record-breaking viewership. Recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Hemsworth continues to be a versatile and celebrated figure in the cinematic world.

Hemsworth is the 2,781st star on the American landmark since its completion in 1961 with the initial 1,558 stars. On his momentous day, Hemsworth mused, “We don’t say rising into love, we say falling into love, so take the plunge. There’s a leap of faith involved, and there’s risk in that tumble. But if you have folks around to catch you and cheer you on, the risk feels much lighter. I’m deeply grateful for my parents’ cheerleading along the journey and the confidence they instilled in me and my brothers to chase after something we were passionate about, something that sparked curiosity and creativity.”

May 29, 2024
High-Speed Construction Begins on Rail Line From Los Angeles to Las Vegas

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Construction is set to begin on Brightline West, a high-speed rail line connecting Southern California and Las Vegas. The $12 billion project will span 218 miles, linking a terminal in Ranch Cucamonga to a station just south of Las Vegas. The future-focused initiative is projected to bring significant benefits to both sides, including creating 35 thousand jobs, reducing over 400 thousand tons of carbon emissions per year, and bolstering tourism.

Genesis of the Project: How to Build a Better Train

The inception of the Brightline West High-Speed Intercity Passenger Rail project traces back to January 2024, when it received a significant financial boost with the approval of $2.5 billion in bonds from the US Department of Transportation. Spearheaded by Brightline, this pioneering endeavor garnered widespread support as a beacon of progress in modern transportation infrastructure. Championed by US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, the initiative embodies the Biden administration’s commitment to sustainable, efficient transportation solutions.

“President Biden’s historic infrastructure package gives us the opportunity to build safe, green, and accessible rail systems,” said Buttigieg in a January statement, “That will deliver benefits to the American people for generations to come.”

Objectives and Vision: The First Step of Something Greater

The overarching goal of the Brightline West project is to establish an environmentally friendly, rapid transit system that redefines connectivity between major metropolitan hubs. By offering a swift alternative to conventional travel methods, Brightline West aspires to catalyze economic growth, enhance regional accessibility, and set a precedent for future high-speed rail endeavors nationwide.

In a January statement, Wes Edens, the Founder and Chairman of Brightline, emphasized the significance of the Brightline West project, stating that it represents the inaugural accurate high-speed rail system in the United States. He highlighted its potential to set a precedent for future eco-friendly passenger rail connections nationwide. Edens underscored the substantial public benefits expected from connecting Las Vegas and Southern California, including job creation and enhanced regional economic competitiveness. Expressing gratitude for the Department of Transportation’s support, he affirmed Brightline’s readiness to commence work on the project.

Sustainability in Operation and Construction: A Zero-Emission System

Brightline West is designed to operate as a fully electric, zero-emission system, boasting trains capable of achieving up to 186 mph speeds. Incorporating cutting-edge technology and eco-friendly infrastructure underscores its commitment to environmental stewardship and efficiency. The flagship station in Las Vegas and additional stations in strategic locations such as Apple Valley, Hesperia, and Rancho Cucamonga will be vital hubs facilitating seamless connectivity across Southern California and Nevada.

With the bulk of funding secured and regulatory approvals obtained, Brightline West is ready to break ground in early 2024, with construction slated to start in mid-to-late April. The project has set a goal of achieving operation in time for the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028, and it’s currently on track to meet this goal. By leveraging a combination of public-private partnerships and strategic investments, Brightline West is set to start work on the first part of a high-speed rail system, transforming the future of transportation infrastructure in the heart of the US.

April 16, 2024
LA County Looking for Ways to Help 99 Cents Only Stores Employees

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The announcement of the impending shutdown of all 371 99 Cents Only stores has set the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors into urgent action, aiming to support the thousands of employees about to face job losses. At the forefront is Supervisor Janice Hahn, who is deeply concerned about the workers’ plight and is actively working to ensure the county provides them with the necessary aid during this challenging time.

“The abrupt closure of the 99 Cents Only stores is a huge blow to the loyal employees who’ve invested their time and energy into these outlets,” Hahn stated, her voice laden with empathy. “But I want them to know that Los Angeles County won’t leave them high and dry. We’re committed to standing beside them and offering the support they need to get through this tough period.”

The Board of Supervisors is set to vote on a motion put forth by Hahn, which calls for a comprehensive report from the county’s Economic Opportunity and Consumer and Business Affairs departments. This report, to be delivered within 60 days, will outline the various ways the county can offer financial assistance and other forms of support to the impacted employees. It is a testament to the Board’s proactive approach to addressing the needs of the community during times of crisis.

The announcement of the closures, which came from the Commerce-based operators of the stores on Thursday, sent shockwaves through the communities served by the 99 Cents Only stores across California, Arizona, Nevada, and Texas. Interim CEO Mike Simoncic expressed the profound difficulty of the decision, citing the numerous challenges the company has faced in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic, shifting consumer demands, and economic pressures.

As liquidation sales began on Friday, marking the end of an era for the company that has been a fixture in the community since 1982, a glimmer of hope emerged in the form of Mark J. Miller, a former president of Big Lots and the original Pic ‘N’ Save brand. Miller has expressed his intention to assemble a group of investors, including former 99 Cents Store executives, to explore the possibility of acquiring the 143 Southern California stores. His plan involves temporarily closing the stores after the going-out-of-business sales conclude and then reopening them with a renewed focus on the “treasure hunt” experience that made the stores so beloved by customers.

While the fate of the 99 Cents Only stores remains uncertain, the unwavering support from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors serves as a beacon of hope for the affected employees. The forthcoming report will provide a roadmap for the county to offer tangible assistance, both in the short-term and long-term, enabling these workers to weather the storm and secure new employment opportunities.

The closure of the 99 Cents Only stores is not just a loss for the employees but also for the communities they have served for decades. These stores have been more than a place to find affordable goods; they have been a part of the fabric of the neighborhoods, offering a unique shopping experience and fostering a sense of community.

April 11, 2024
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Enjoy Quiet Date Night in LA

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The California sun, notorious for its unforgiving glare on blemishes and bad decisions, cast a softer light on a peculiar pairing in Los Angeles. Taylor Swift, the queen of pop anthems and heartbreak chronicles, and Travis Kelce, the Kansas City Chiefs star tight end with hands of gold, have been weaving a quiet narrative amidst the relentless hum of their extraordinary lives.

Their latest chapter unfolded at The Bird Streets Club, a discreet Hollywood haven frequented by celebrities seeking refuge from the ever-present flashbulbs. Page Six became the first to crack the code of their rendezvous, revealing a cozy dinner alongside another couple. While the specifics of the evening remain a delicious secret – no incriminating photographs surfaced, and the culinary delights they savored remain a mystery – one thing was crystal clear: Taylor and Travis were carving out precious time for each other.

This stolen date night comes as a well-deserved reward for both. Taylor, having just wrapped the Asian leg of her history-making Eras Tour in Singapore, can finally breathe before conquering European audiences with her electrifying live show, kicking off in Paris on May 9th. On the other hand, Travis is still basking in the afterglow of leading the Kansas City Chiefs to Super Bowl victory, a champion enjoying the spoils of victory during the off-season.

Us Weekly, ever the keen observer of celebrity coupledom, shed some light on how they spend their downtime. Gone are the roars of screaming fans and the blinding spotlights of sold-out stadiums. Instead, picture this: a cozy night at Taylor’s luxurious home theater, a haven from the whirlwind. Imagine them curled up on plush couches, catching up on movies and shows they’ve missed, a testament to the preciousness of stolen moments in their jam-packed schedules.

This newfound downtime isn’t just about unwinding; it’s about reconnecting with loved ones. The insider revealed that Taylor, known for her fiercely loyal circle of friends, enjoys hosting intimate gatherings at her Los Angeles residence. These evenings provide a platform for genuine connection, starkly contrasting the often superficial world they navigate professionally. Laughter spills into the California night, a symphony of shared stories and inside jokes, a reminder of the normalcy they crave.

Looking ahead, whispers of a romantic escape add another layer of intrigue to their blossoming connection. With the highly anticipated release of Taylor’s new album, The Tortured Poets Department, looming on April 19th, the couple reportedly contemplates a private getaway before the promotional machine kicks into high gear. Shrouded in mystery, this secret vacation would offer a precious opportunity to disappear before the album drops, a chance to be Taylor and Travis, not the megastar and the champion athlete.

Their recent sightings, from the bustling streets of Singapore to the discreet havens of Los Angeles, paint a picture of a budding romance blossoming amid stolen moments. Whether a quiet dinner at a members-only club or catching up on movies in a private home theater, Taylor and Travis prioritize intimacy and connection. As Taylor embarks on her European tour and Travis prepares for the upcoming NFL season, one can only wonder if these stolen moments in L.A. signify the beginning of a beautiful love story, a melody yet to be entirely composed but potentially a chart-topping hit.

March 28, 2024
Beloved Los Angeles Butcher Dies at age 44, Sending the Food Community Reeling

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The Los Angeles food community has been stunned by the loss of beloved local butcher Jared Standing, who died by suicide on February 22nd, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. Standing has left a legacy of social connections, touched lives, and impacted how LA thinks of its food.

Jared Standing opened his butcher shop, Standing’s Butchery, in Hancock Park in 2017. Many of his connections met him behind the counter, where he was known for his friendly demeanor and how he freely shared his wisdom and food knowledge.

Standing was a former vegetarian who advocated for sustainable sourcing and animal welfare, and his shop was founded on these principles. He sourced his meat from California farmers who prioritized policies like all-grass diets, free-range habitats, and heritage breeds. Standing’s zero-waste policy led to inventive products incorporating scraps and bone into stocks, chili, and premium dog food.

Standing’s Butchery became a hub for providing meat to area shoppers and chefs and for education about sustainable practices and closed-loop farming. The shop hosted butchery classes, and Standing also spread his knowledge online through his social media channels.

“He was able to impact such a large scene from one small shop,” Kelsy Lee, the wholesale manager of Four Star Seafood, told the Los Angeles Times. “He was largely responsible for [getting many] Los Angeles chefs [t] consider the way that they source their ingredients, and also the way that people get food into their homes.” Kelsy had been consulting with Standing for a future location for another Standing’s Butchery.

Standing had been planning to expand his business. He had been running successful burger pop-ups, Burgers by Standing, and had spoken about aspirations to open a permanent establishment for some time. He had announced a Westside location for Standing’s Butchery.

In a social media post made back in 2022, Standing discussed his life story and ambitions. He discussed how “impossible it seemed” for him to open his own butchery shop but explained that he believed that honest hard work would pay off. He spoke about his ambition and how he has spent much time thinking about the future and “all that I want and don’t yet have.”

Standing had come a long way since his beginnings. He had once been homeless, sleeping in a $500 Toyota Corolla. It had taken a job in the meat department of a Whole Foods to teach him the basics of butchery while he found his way financially. He had educated himself in better butchery practices online while he worked his way up to better jobs until he was finally able to open Standing’s Butchery. Standing built a reputation and legacy that will endure through his work ethic and diligent self-improvement.

Suicide rates in the U.S. have set new records in both 2022 and 2023. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline continues to work against this trend and can be reached by phone at 800-273-8255. Other resources include online chat at 988lifeline.org and the text Crisis Line at 741741.

March 8, 2024
$17.75M Mansion in Los Angeles, Owned by Producer of ‘Seinfeld,’ Hits The Market

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Emmy Award-winning producer of Seinfeld, Andrew Scheinman, has turned his creative talents to architecture. He recently listed his latest project, a modern mansion in Los Angeles, for $17.75 million.

This 7,200-square-foot Brentwood mansion sits on a hillside in a private area. The exterior is fashionably modern, with walls made of wood and glass. A manicured garden sits on one side of the home, and one hundred and fifty trees were planted around the house to maximize privacy. The Lower Mandeville Canyon area where the mansion is located is home to a number of Hollywood stars, including Harrison Ford, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Reese Witherspoon.

Inside the home, the modern, natural theme continues. Wide plank European oak flooring is present throughout the home, which utilizes an open floor plan to emphasize an airy, open feel. Many of the walls are made entirely of glass and face the trees surrounding the home, giving the residents the feeling of being sheltered in nature, even when they are in the middle of a bustling city. “We asked for something modern but warm. Sometimes, modern homes can feel a little cold. We wanted it to be cozy, even with its walls of glass,” said Scheinman.

Luxury pervades each room of the home. The kitchen boasts a marble island, two sinks, a retractable television, and a hidden walk-in pantry. The master bedroom – one of six total bedrooms – includes a fireplace, a large marble and glass bathroom, and a walk-in closet.

A second-floor balcony offers a beautiful view of the Los Angeles skyline all the way to the ocean, emphasized by a wide glass railing. The backyard is home to a large in-ground swimming pool, a covered grill and pizza oven, and an outdoor dining area. Other amenities include an infrared sauna and a home theater with a 165-foot screen.

Scheinman’s new passion for luxury homes has been a successful venture thus far. David Kramer of Hilton & Hyland’s is currently holding the $17.75 million house listed this week. It was designed by award-winning firm Rockefeller Kempel Architects with direction from Scheinman.

The custom-built mansion took Scheinman and his brother, Adam, a total of five years to bring to life. “This is the third house my brother and I have built together,” Scheinman, 75, told Mansion Global. “Once I was out of the film business, I thought this was a nice creative outlet.”

Scheinman’s career in film and television spanned from producing the iconic sitcom Seinfeld to working on major films like The Princess Bride, When Harry Met Sally…, and A Few Good Men. He is one of the co-founders and current co-owners of the production company Castle Rock Entertainment, alongside Martin Shafer, Rob Reiner, Glenn Padnick, and Alan Horn.

Castle Rock Entertainment, founded in 1987, has had a hand in producing hit films such as The Shawshank Redemption, Miss Congeniality, and Friends With Benefits. The company’s upcoming projects include an HBO documentary about actor, comedian, director, and screenwriter Albert Brooks and a sequel to the 1984 mockumentary, This is Spinal Tap.

February 6, 2024
L.A. Times to Lay Off 115 Newsroom Staff as the Paper Struggles

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On Tuesday, January 23, The Los Angeles Times announced the paper will be laying off at least 115 people, or approximately 20% of its newsroom. The move is one of the largest workforce reductions in the 142-year history of the institution. The layoffs are occurring after projections have reported another year of major losses for the publication.

Owner of the paper, Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong called the cuts necessary as the L.A. Times simply can’t afford to lose $30-40M yearly without progressing toward creating a higher readership that would bring in subscriptions and advertising to further sustain the organization. Soon-Shiong said drastic changes were needed, including the installment of new leaders to focus on strengthening journalism to become indispensable to more readers.

Soon-Shiong added “Today’s decision is painful for all, but it is imperative that we act urgently and take steps to build a sustainable and thriving paper for the next generation. We are committed to doing so.“

The cutback comes almost six years after Soon-Shiong and his family purchased the paper and the San Diego Union-Tribune from Tribune Publishing. They paid $500M for both organizations, and the transaction ushered in a wave of growth and hiring, which came as relief following ten-plus years of weakened journalistic ambition and crushing cuts. With a new owner, The Times was positioned to rebuild, providing stout coverage of California and the West.

Unfortunately, the institution lost $60M in advertising revenue amid the COVID-19 pandemic, interrupting the anticipated turnaround. Until last summer when Hollywood’s labor unrest stirred up another dramatic pullback, the publication managed to retain its newsroom of more than 500 employees.

President and COO of The Times, Chris Argentieri said, “The economic reality of our organization is extremely challenging.” Argentieri continued in a memo to the staff, “Despite our owner’s willingness to continue to invest, we need to take immediate steps to improve our cash position.”

Over 2,500 journalism jobs disappeared in 2023 alone, as consumers have increasingly turned to social media for information and entertainment. The Times is not the only publication feeling the effects as notable outlets like The Washington Post, ABC News, NBC News, Buzzfeed News, CNN, and Conde Nast all reduced their workforce last year. The Soon-Shiong family sold the San Diego Union-Tribune in July 2023.

The announcement of layoffs on Tuesday followed a week that saw tension growing between the newsroom guild and management. Last Friday, over 350 staff members (approx. 90% of the guild-covered journalists) participated in a one-day strike, refusing to work in protest of looming cuts — a move that Soon-Shiong said “did not help the situation.” The owner was hopeful that the guild and management would work together to form a plan that could have saved jobs.

Times reporter and Media Guild of the West President Matt Pearce wrote an email to members in which he noted that a quarter of the guild lost their jobs. He stated, “It’s a dark day at the Los Angeles Times… Many departments and clusters across the newsroom will be heavily hit.”

The action on Tuesday comes seven months after more than 70 staff members were laid off in a move that was criticized for having disproportionately affected journalists of color. Both sides had previously stated they wanted to find a better way to approach the situation.

Soon-Shiong said in a statement that his family has absorbed recent-year losses that “surpassed $100M in operational and capital expenses.”

However, the owner pushed back on the notion that The Times is in turmoil. He said, “We are not in turmoil. We have a real plan,” Soon-Shiong continued. “We have an opportunity to take all the investment that we’ve made, and find a way to reposition [The Times] into a sustainable and thriving paper for the next generation.”

January 31, 2024