Author: Chris Gallagher

“Flowers at Your Feet”: Texas Isaiah Uplifts Black Trans-Masculine Identity

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Texas Isaiah’s inaugural solo show in Los Angeles, “Flowers at Your Feet: a Cherished Horizon,” hosted by Residency Art Gallery, marks a significant milestone in his career. The exhibition showcases his latest series, which integrates classical photography techniques with sacred spaces, particularly altars, to highlight the intricate aspects of Black Trans-masculine identity. The gallery opening attracted numerous attendees, all eager to witness Isaiah’s evocative work and participate in the artist talk moderated by Auttrianna Ward.

The event drew a diverse crowd, including community members, supporters, and art enthusiasts who shared their thoughts on the show’s impact. Damaris Chambers, a personal trainer and one of the sitters featured in the exhibit, emphasized the importance of freedom and connection to the art. For Chambers, Isaiah’s work creates a dreamlike state that invites viewers to explore deeper emotions and personal connections. Another attendee, Adedolapo Adeniji, echoed these sentiments, praising Isaiah’s creativity and the powerful effect of his work.

The large photographs of trans-Black, masculine bodies prominently displayed on the gallery walls were a focal point for many visitors. Kandis Hutcherson noted the significance of such representation, sharing how crucial it is for their culture to see themselves reflected in these tender and peaceful moments. That visibility provides a sense of validation and empowerment that strengthens the community.

Reniece Charles, another attendee, highlighted the importance of unity and the role of art in supporting Black, queer, and trans culture. For Charles, the exhibition is vital for bringing people together and celebrating these identities through art. The sense of belonging and mutual support was palpable throughout the evening, affirming the exhibition’s impact on those present. The show’s compelling depiction of rest and reflection also inspired those very themes to be embraced by the viewers.

Born in Brooklyn, NY, and now residing in Los Angeles, TX, Isaiah is a first-generation visual narrator who has made significant strides in the art world. He became one of the first Trans photographers to feature on the covers of Vogue and TIME, capturing iconic figures like Janet Mock, Patrisse Cullors, Dwayne Wade, and Gabrielle Union. Receiving the 2018 Art Matters grant and the 2019 Getty Images: Where We Stand Creative Bursary grant, Isaiah’s accolades also include serving as a 2020-21 artist in residence at The Studio Museum in Harlem.

“Flowers at Your Feet: a Cherished Horizon” continues the conversation Isaiah started during his 2021 residency at the Studio Museum in Harlem. The exhibition traverses various photographic languages, exploring themes of contemplation, awakening, authority, rest, and emotional movement. Isaiah’s natural expressions of the sitters weave narratives with powerful themes of devotion, tenderness, and more. Uniquely, Isaiah remains an unseen presence within his work, adding a layer of intimacy and intrigue that prompts viewers to ponder and appreciate the hidden perspectives within the vividly captured moments.

A gifted autodidact, Texas Isaiah harnesses the power of nature and natural beauty to bring his creations to life. Isaiah’s shift from traditional natural light to other lighting materials while maintaining a connection to ambient sources like the sun highlights his evolving vision. The spotlighting creates a sacred atmosphere within the domestic spaces depicted, inviting viewers to experience a visceral sense of self-discovery within the exhibition’s haven. From launching his poignant visual project “BLACKNESS” in 2012 to his current creative offering “Flowers at Your Feet: a Cherished Horizon,” Isaiah continues to use his artistry to heal through photography.

May 24, 2024
Reports Show Los Angeles is Much Safer Than Many Think

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Recent studies have shown that Los Angeles is much safer than many believe it to be. Part of the reason why the fear of crime has spiked is the upcoming District Attorney election. Outside of big cities such as LA and New York City always being accused of having worse crime than there is, incumbent DA George Gascón, and Nathan Hochman, the challenger, are in a spirited race to determine how vital crime and safety concerns will be portrayed in one of the most varied and complicated areas in the country.

Gascon’s biggest platform is his focus on public safety and desire to make Los Angeles a notably safe city. He contends that throughout his leadership, there has been an apparent improvement in the safety of the people living in Los Angeles County. On the other hand, Hochman presents a very different image, claiming that a concerning rise in violent and property crime rates has corresponded with Gascón’s leadership. According to Hochman, the next election will be a vote on who can keep locals secure in the face of these difficulties.

There’s more nuance to this election battle than meets the eye. Both candidates rely on assumptions about the complex link between crime rates and prosecution judgments and on biased readings of statistics. While Gascón highlights his approaches to putting community safety first, Hochman draws attention to some of the worrying patterns he observes while Gascón is in charge.

Analyzing the given facts creates a detailed image. Under Gascón’s leadership, homicide rates have decreased, suggesting advancements in some areas. However, an increase in property crimes has raised questions about general security and safety. Despite these variations, experts advise against oversimplifying views, stressing the complexity of crime patterns and the impact of outside variables like the COVID-19 epidemic and law enforcement leadership dynamics.

Furthermore, estimates of public safety frequently deviate from statistical patterns. While some locals voice concerns about crime, others place a higher priority on urgent problems like homelessness, traffic congestion, and the expense of living. This range of viewpoints emphasizes how complicated the issues confronting Los Angeles County are and how careful planning is required to solve them.

The contest for district attorney is a microcosm of the more significant conflicts and concerns in the area as the November election approaches. Voters are dealing with many other urgent concerns, such as social fairness and economic inequality, even if crime continues to be a major issue.

The narrative surrounding the election is shaped by the voices of the people who live in a county known for its great diversity and complexity. Their different experiences and viewpoints highlight the necessity of all-encompassing solutions that promote community well-being and address the underlying causes of crime.

Undoubtedly, as the contenders step up their efforts and compete for votes, the election result will not only dictate the course of criminal justice and law enforcement in Los Angeles County but also provide valuable information about how one of the biggest and most dynamic areas in the country is prioritizing its changes.

May 21, 2024
Los Angeles Film and TV Production Sees Gradual Recovery Post-Strike

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Los Angeles has long been recognized as the heart of the film and TV industry. However, recent data from FilmLA reveals that the industry is still grappling with the aftermath of last year’s strikes, despite a noticeable uptick in production activities. In the first quarter of 2024, total location shoot days rose to 6,823, marking a 23% increase from the fourth quarter of 2023. Nonetheless, these figures remain 20% below the five-year average for the same period and have not yet returned to the levels observed prior to the strike.

The decline in production began even before the Writers Guild of America and SAG-AFTRA initiated strikes last summer, which significantly halted most scripted production across the nation. The end of the strikes, about five months ago, did not instantly revive production rates. “There was a really delayed return to production,” stated Philip Sokoloski, a spokesman for FilmLA. “We knew it could take six to eight weeks for TV, and for feature films, it might be a little longer.”

FilmLA, responsible for issuing permits for location shoots in the Los Angeles area, provides data that, while not encompassing soundstage productions, serves as a reliable indicator of overall production trends. The agency’s recent reports cover a wide range of production types, including commercials, reality TV, scripted shows, feature films, documentaries, and music videos. Notably, while film and scripted TV are on a rebound, reality TV, which wasn’t directly affected by the strike, has seen a decline in the first quarter of 2024.

Sokoloski highlighted that the strike is only one of several factors contributing to the general downturn in production. “We know there’s a scale-back,” he remarked. “The streaming bubble has popped. Fewer episodes are being ordered of the shows that are in production, and a lot of shows have been canceled.” Additionally, there has been a noticeable shift in commercial production, with many projects relocating to other parts of the country or even overseas, reflecting broader industry trends and economic considerations.

This shift in the industry is also influenced by the changing landscape of media consumption. The rise of streaming services had initially led to an explosion of content production, but the market has become increasingly saturated. With streaming platforms reevaluating their strategies and cutting back on the number of new productions, the overall demand for production has softened.

Moreover, the industry is still adjusting to new norms post-pandemic, which include more stringent safety protocols and possibly increased costs of production. These factors collectively contribute to the slower recovery rate.

Looking ahead, the industry’s path to full recovery remains uncertain. Stakeholders are cautiously optimistic, hoping for a stabilization that will enable a return to pre-strike levels of activity. However, the industry must navigate the complex interplay of economic pressures, shifting consumer preferences, and the residual impacts of the strikes.

As Los Angeles strives to reclaim its prominence in the film and TV production landscape, the coming months will be crucial in determining whether the industry can adapt to these new challenges and return to its former glory.

April 23, 2024
Fondry: A Symphony of Flour, Butter, and Expertise in Highland Park

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Los Angeles’ culinary tapestry is constantly woven with new threads, and the trendy neighborhood of Highland Park is no exception. A new melody has risen here amid the buzz of independent shops and a thriving art scene—the delicate, enticing aroma of freshly baked croissants. Fondry Bakery, a haven for the humble yet exquisite viennoiserie, has arrived, promising an ode to this timeless pastry under the guidance of two passionate veterans of the coffee industry.

AJ Kim and Scott Sohn, the masterminds behind Fondry, are no strangers to the world of coffee and pastries. Their journey began not with ovens and rolling pins but with the rhythmic hum of espresso machines and the comforting murmur of conversations brewing alongside carefully crafted lattes. Years of operating coffee shops have instilled in them a deep appreciation for creating a welcoming atmosphere and serving high-quality beverages. With Fondry, they embark on a new chapter, one where their expertise is meticulously focused on a single star – the croissant.

But what elevates Fondry’s croissants beyond the ordinary? The answer lies in the meticulous attention to detail, starting with the foundation: the dough. Kim, the architect of Fondry’s unique recipe, has spent countless hours perfecting his technique. The result is a symphony of flour, butter, and expertise, culminating in a masterpiece of texture. Each croissant boasts a shatteringly crisp exterior, a testament to the meticulous layering process. This gives way to an impossibly light, airy interior, achieving the quintessential “cloud-like” texture croissant enthusiasts crave.

Fondry continues beyond the classic butter croissant, however. Recognizing the diverse palates of Los Angeles, they offer a delightful melody of flavors through thirteen different variations. Traditionalists can savor the pure, buttery goodness of the original. At the same time, the adventurous can embark on a delightful exploration with options like chocolate almonds, studded with rich pockets of melted chocolate and crunchy almonds, or the intriguing everything bagel spice. This playful twist incorporates the familiar flavors of sesame, poppy, garlic, and onion.

Kim’s vision extends beyond the current offerings. He envisions a future where Fondry’s menu becomes a living testament to the vibrant communities it serves. Each bakery location, he believes, should be able to tap into the unique flavors of its neighborhood, offering special pastries that reflect the local spirit. Imagine a citrus glaze adorning a croissant in a sun-drenched California beach town or perhaps a hint of maple syrup gracing the pastry in a region known for its maple production. This element of personalization promises to elevate Fondry from a bakery to a culinary canvas, where croissants become a celebration of place and community.

The arrival of Fondry in Highland Park signifies more than just adding another bakery. It underscores the neighborhood’s burgeoning reputation as a culinary destination. Here, coffee shops aren’t just places to grab a quick caffeine fix; they are evolving into hubs where specific pastries are elevated to an art form. Whether you’re a seasoned “croissantoisseur” with a discerning palate or simply someone curious to experience the magic of a well-crafted viennoiserie, Fondry promises to be a delightful addition to your Highland Park experience.

As you step through the doors, allow yourself to be enveloped by the warm aroma of baking dough, the rhythmic clatter of ingredients being prepped, and the quiet hum of dedication that goes into creating these exquisite culinary works of art. At Fondry, the croissant is no longer just breakfast; it’s an experience waiting to be savored.

April 17, 2024
Anaheim Residents Concerned About Disneyland’s Proposed Development Plans

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A proposed $1.9 billion investment to expand Disneyland has created some anxiety in the Anaheim community surrounding the park. At a public forum on Wednesday, April 10, area residents were given their final chance to voice concerns before the Anaheim City Council’s upcoming vote on the project.

Even More of “The Happiest Place on Earth”

Disney’s proposed $1.9 billion investment, which has been called DisneylandForward, targets a 50-acre parking lot near Harbor Boulevard for development. The area would be used for new theme park attractions. The deal also includes the purchase of three public streets by Disney, including Magic Way, which city officials have said is used by as many as ten thousand cars per day. The nearby Hotel District would also be replaced as part of an effort to fill the surrounding area with new hotels and restaurants, as well as entertainment, shopping, and further attractions.

As part of the proposal, Disney must also invest $100 million in the city of Anaheim, money slated for streets, parks, and affordable housing.

Low Wages and High Traffic for Anaheim

In addition to the community members who entered the meeting to voice their concerns, many more protested outside the meeting. Among the community’s concerns was traffic, which has already been a problem for many in the area surrounding the park. The plan proposes bringing as many as 15 million new tourists to the area, as well as creating jobs for 14 thousand more workers. Community members also voiced concern for the low wages of the jobs being created.

Community activists have criticized that only $30 million of the money going to Anaheim will be used for affordable housing. They pointed to a similar project planned for construction near Florida’s Walt Disney World, where $350 million has been set aside for affordable housing.

The Project Impact Report drafted for the proposal agreed that it would cause increased noise, as well as greenhouse gas emissions and other factors that would impact air quality in the surrounding area.

Long-Term Economic Impacts

A Disney-backed study presented potential economic benefits that the expansion could bring over a five-year period, including an additional $30 million in affordable housing, as well as $8 million for area parks and $40 for street upgrades.

“We have been working with the City and our neighbors for over three years and have followed the process the City has laid out for this Project,” wrote Suzi Brown, Disneyland Resort’s Vice President of Communications, in a Thursday email. “It has been thorough and transparent, and we are ready to move forward and need to start planning for our future.”

Anaheim City Spokesman Mike Lyster argued in favor of the idea, saying, “Our city will grow. Our residents deserve good quality services; we need funding for that… Tourism is our primary way to do that.”

The plan is a long-term investment by Disney. While Wednesday represented the last chance that the community had to voice their opinions about the project, the decision will lead to a lengthy period of construction. The DisneylandForward project is meant to be completed over the course of four decades. The vote is set to take place on Tuesday, the 16th of April.

April 10, 2024
Thieves in LA Get Away With $30 Million in Cash

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Over the Easter weekend, thieves in Los Angeles executed a daring heist, making off with a staggering $30 million in cash from a money storage facility located in the Sylmar area of the San Fernando Valley. This audacious crime has been marked as one of the largest cash burglaries in the city’s history. The incident has taken both authorities and the public by surprise.

The secret operation by the thieves unfolded without immediate detection. The burglars managed to breach a secure safe within the facility without triggering any alarms. According to a city publication, Elaine Morales, a commander with the Los Angeles Police Department has revealed that the break-in went unnoticed until authorities opened the vault the next day. The theft was meticulously planned to remain undetected until the revelation upon inspection.

Authorities, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Los Angeles Police Department, have launched an extensive investigation into the incident. The strategy behind this incident included gaining access to the facility through the roof, bypassing security measures, and accessing the place where a substantial sum of cash was stored. The nature of the burglary has left investigators struggling to decode the complexities of the case.

As per reports by a local publication, unnamed law enforcement officials suspect that few individuals were privy to the existence of such a large reserve of cash within the facility. This emphasizes the meticulous planning involved in orchestrating the heist. The lack of awareness among a selected few contributed to the successful execution of the burglary, making it one of the most significant cash thefts in Los Angeles so far.

Reports indicate that this theft has surpassed any previous armored car heist in the city, reflecting the scale of the operation. The sizable sum pilfered from the money storage facility also reveals the vulnerability of such establishments to sophisticated criminal endeavors. This has prompted heightened security measures and vigilance within the industry.

This brazen act of burglary is reminiscent of a similar high-profile incident that occurred nearly two years back, where jewels and valuables worth nearly $100 million were stolen from a Brink’s armored truck at a Southern California truck stop. The perpetrators of that audacious robbery serve as a reminder of the challenges law enforcement faces in detaining individuals involved in such elaborate crimes.

As the investigation into the $30 million cash heist continues, authorities remain focused on identifying and apprehending those responsible for orchestrating the meticulously planned operation. The enormity of the stolen sum increases the urgency of apprehending the perpetrators and recovering the stolen funds. It also hints at the pressing need to fortify security measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Pondering this unprecedented theft, residents and businesses alike are left reeling, grappling with the audacity and sophistication of the criminals involved. The brazen nature of the heist reminds the ever-present threat posed by organized crime groups and the importance of robust security protocols to safeguard against such nefarious activities.

As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with any information regarding the theft or potential suspects to come forward. This emphasizes the collaborative effort required to bring those responsible to justice and prevent incidents of this magnitude in the future.

April 3, 2024
Student’s LA Marathon at 13 Years Old

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Nyla Evans, a student who attends Irving Magnet School in the Glassell Park area, was preparing for her first 26.2-mile L.A. Marathon at just thirteen this last week.

Evans—who started running during the pandemic to help manage her anxiety—is still new to the activity, which she began when schools resorted to using online education to help minimize risk for students.

The thirteen-year-old stated that running is a stress reliever and that she made new friends while doing it. Some of these friends joined Evans during the L.A. Marathon, and they all participated in an organization called Students Run L.A., which began in 1986 when a schoolteacher challenged his students at a continuation school in Boyle Heights to help him train for a marathon.

Evans credited her coaches and friends for helping to keep her motivated while she worked on improving her skills and stamina. She claimed she “couldn’t have done it” without her team.

Evans’ mother, Johanna Voutounou, stated that her daughter started to walk at just seven months and has noted significant, positive changes that running has made in her daughter’s overall mental health. “It was a struggle,” she said.

Thankfully, Nyla Evans found friends and “came alive” because of their companionship.

The thirteen-year-old runner hopes she can inspire others to take up the activity as a way to deal with their anxieties and other mental health issues. She also had personal goals for finishing her first marathon, which she said she wanted to complete in about five-and-a-half to six hours. As it was her first run, she wanted to “take in the whole city.”

Regardless of whatever time she made in the marathon, her mom is overjoyed with the discipline Nyla has shown over the past several years. William, Nyla’s father, says that the dedication she’s shown is “remarkable and that he is “just so proud.”

Students Run L.A., the program that has helped encourage Nyla and her friends to run in the marathon, serves more than 3,200 underserved middle and high school students at 185 public schools and community programs across the Greater Los Angeles area. The program, which inspires children to train alongside their adult mentors, helps organize, transport, and pay for participants to enter six community races of longer distances, building up from a 5K to a 30K race.

Each Spring, SRLA makes a limited number of $500 scholarships payable directly to a school of enrollment for post-secondary education, two or four-year colleges, trade schools, or exemplary art programs. In 2019, SRLA partnered with American Honda to introduce the Honda Power of Dreams Scholarship Program. Receipts of this scholarship receive a $1000 payable over two years for their education and commit to participating in SRLA events to help mentor the next generation of student runners.

For children like Nyla Evans, running and sports have always been ways to reduce stress while maintaining an active lifestyle. Combined with a partnership with the Students Run L.A. program, students can make great strides in their personal and athletic lives while helping prepare themselves for the future.

March 27, 2024
“The Last Repair Shop” Wins Best Documentary Short Oscar

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Anyone who has put on some headphones and clicked play to an emotional love ballad, a powerful rock song, or a sad R&B tune can attest to the potential music has to open emotional doorways that allow for human connection on a global scale. Now, imagine that potential at the fingertips of today’s youth—opening possibilities for them to find safety and comfort in self-expression, perhaps even moments of joy. That is what an intimate group of individuals who work for the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), the nation’s second-largest school district, do every year for LAUSD students. Recognizing the significance of this small group of people are directors Ben Proudfoot and Kris Bowers, who just happened to win the Oscar for Best Documentary Short this past weekend.

The Last Repair Shop is the culmination of four years of hard work and dedication by Proudfoot, Bowers, and the rest of the documentary’s team. The short film highlights the story of four individuals who repair and maintain musical instruments used by LAUSD students. This school district is one of the only in the country that supplies musical equipment to its students free of charge, a potentially life-changing opportunity for over 500,000 students.

Hailing their Oscar win as a victory in support of musical education, Proudfoot earned his second Academy Award within three years this past award weekend, while Bowers was honored with his first. During the award ceremony, co-director Bowers stated in his acceptance speech, “The Last Repair Shop is about the heroes in our schools who often go unsung, unthanked, and unseen. Tonight, you are sung, you are thanked, and you are seen.” Bowers understands intimately the power of this unassuming workshop’s potential and how broken instruments can make music long after students leave.

As a former L.A. public school student, Bowers remarked, “I played saxophone for a short while. Those instruments were incredibly important, and whenever they were broken or needed repair, I assumed they were being sent to the manufacturer.” Unaware of the musical magicians behind the scenes, “It never dawned on me that the people who go behind the scenes ensure that this young kid who needs to play this piano every day has that piano. And so, for me, the moment that Ben told me about it was the moment that I felt like this was a story that needed to be told,” remarked Bowers, who opened up about how proud he felt to take on this challenge of sharing this music program’s story.

Wanting to further honor and highlight these unsung heroes, Proudfoot announced to reporters backstage at the Dolby Theatre, “We’re thrilled to announce a $15 million capital campaign to help shore up the repair shop. You can go to thelastrepairshop.com right now. Everybody watching… everything helps, and I think it goes to show the power of the short documentary.”

With a fund-raising effort in place to help lift up the LAUSD musical program, Proudfoot opened up about the importance of supporting musical education, remarking that musical education is about more than finding the next prodigy, “There’s also an incredible social benefit for music education of everybody who doesn’t become a professional musician.” The dedicated musical technicians of LAUSD certainly know the impact musical access for everyone can have, and hopefully, with The Last Repair Shop, you, too, can be inspired to help today’s youth have the opportunity to play their songs.

March 21, 2024
The Academy Museum: A Year-Round Celebration of Film and the Oscars

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Nestled in the bustling heart of Los Angeles, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures stands out as a beacon for movie lovers of all stripes. It’s more than just your average museum; it’s a journey into the very essence of film, shining a light on the creativity, historical progression, and societal influence of the cinematic world. Boasting the title of North America’s biggest film museum, it serves as a year-long tribute to the Oscars, inviting guests to delve into the rich tapestry of cinema far beyond the glitz of award season.

Amy Homma, the museum’s Chief Audience Officer, describes the Academy as “an incredibly vibrant and engaging spot for families and visitors of every generation to discover the narratives that have shaped cinema.” Homma highlights the museum’s dedication to education, entertainment, and the discovery of filmic tales as key factors in its charm. Thanks to this focus, the museum has quickly risen to prominence as a cultural icon, attracting movie buffs from around the world since its doors first opened.

The museum’s vast collection, comprising over 13 million objects, offers a tangible connection to the movies that have shaped the global film landscape. From iconic costumes and props to the personal filmmaking equipment of legendary directors, the exhibits span the entire spectrum of the film industry’s history. This extensive archive not only celebrates the achievements of past and present filmmakers but also educates visitors about the intricate processes behind the making of their favorite movies.

Beyond its static displays, the Academy Museum distinguishes itself through a dynamic array of programming that caters to a wide range of interests. Workshops provide hands-on experiences, allowing visitors to learn about the practical aspects of filmmaking, from screenwriting and directing to the nuances of sound and editing. Film screenings, often accompanied by discussions or Q&A sessions with creators and scholars, offer insights into cinematic themes, techniques, and the societal impacts of film.

The museum’s commitment to film-centric activities extends to special exhibitions and retrospectives that not only honor the recipients of the Academy Awards but also explore the diverse narratives and cultural dialogues within cinema. These events serve as a bridge between the past and the present, ensuring that the legacy of film is preserved for future generations while also embracing new perspectives and voices in the industry.

What sets the Academy Museum apart is its year-round celebration of the Oscars. The museum provides a behind-the-scenes look at the Academy Awards, showcasing everything from the evolution of the Oscar statuette to memorable moments in the ceremony’s history. This permanent homage to the Oscars allows visitors to experience the prestige and excitement of the awards regardless of the season, making every visit to the museum an occasion to celebrate cinematic excellence.

For those looking to embark on a cinematic journey, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures offers an unparalleled experience. Its blend of historical treasures, interactive programming, and dedication to the art of film makes it a must-visit destination for anyone with a passion for movies. The museum beautifully commemorates the past while also inspiring a new generation of filmmakers and movie lovers, ensuring that the magic of cinema continues to enchant audiences for years to come.

For more information please visit: https://www.academymuseum.org/en.

March 12, 2024
City of L.A. Takes Initial Steps Towards Acquiring Graffiti Towers Left Vacant by Chinese Real Estate Company

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Finally, addressed in a bold move made by city officials, the notorious “graffiti towers” blighting downtown Los Angeles are headed towards a revival. Crucial measures have been initiated to reclaim the vacant complex left in disarray by a Chinese real estate company’s financial debacle. Initially intended for a luxurious hotel and condominiums, the sprawling towers stand as a stark reminder of a failed project, now adorned with graffiti and marred by dangerous social media antics.

City crews kicked off the first steps last Friday, focusing on removing scaffolding that had inadvertently facilitated trespassing onto the premises. While initially intended for construction, the protective structure inadvertently became an entry point for vandals and daredevils, leading to heightened concerns about safety and public welfare.

Sergeant Gordon Helper of the local police expressed the urgency of the situation, highlighting the potential risks associated with the towers. The unchecked access to the property has fueled rampant graffiti and given rise to dangerous activities like BASE jumping, a disturbing trend spreading on social media platforms. Helper emphasized the city’s commitment to preventing any harm, emphasizing that they cannot have anybody getting hurt, injured, or facing a fatality and are adamant about avoiding such incidents from happening in the area.

The genesis of the problem lies in the financial woes of China Oceanwide Holdings, the Beijing-based developer behind the ill-fated project. Initially announced in 2015 as a part of the company’s expansive ventures in the U.S., the project encountered setbacks in 2019 when Oceanwide faced a financial crisis. The ambitious venture, meant to house a hotel and luxury condominiums, came to a standstill, ushering in the beginning of the towers’ transformation into the infamous “graffiti towers.”

The extent of vandalism and neglect has recently gained widespread attention, tarnishing the reputation of a high-profile area that encompasses prominent landmarks such as Crypto.com Arena, the Los Angeles Convention Center, and the L.A. Live dining and events complex. City Councilmember Kevin de León, representing the affected area, stressed the need for a developer to salvage the situation. In a recent council meeting, he estimated that acquiring and completing the property would demand a considerable investment of $500 million for purchase and an additional $1.5 billion for completion.

De León, determined to rectify the situation, issued a motion characterizing Oceanwide Plaza as a “black eye on an otherwise vibrant part” of downtown LA. His concerns extend beyond graffiti and daredevil stunts, as reports surfaced of thieves pilfering copper wire from the building. The calculated approach to revitalizing the towers involves addressing the aesthetic issues and the structural and safety problems that have grown in the wake of the development’s abandonment.

Los Angeles continues to take decisive steps to reclaim the graffiti-laden towers, illustrating the perils that can occur when ambitious real estate projects and financial challenges collide. The city’s dedication to restoring order to this high-profile area speaks to the implications of such failed endeavors, urging stakeholders to consider the long-term impact on the urban real estate environment and community well-being when making expansion plans.

February 29, 2024
Learn to Forget Clothing Brand Is Embracing the Socal Counter Culture

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Fullerton-based clothing brand Learn to Forget stands as a vibrant representation of rebellion and artistic expression in Southern California’s counterculture. Founded by Reilly Herrera and Mike Cambra, the brand intertwines the spirit of skating, graffiti art, and punk rock prevalent in Orange County and Los Angeles.

Reilly Herrera’s journey into the world of counterculture began early in life, marked by his innate talent for drawing and a penchant for going against the grain. Growing up in Fullerton, Herrera’s interests in graffiti, skating, and punk rock music converged, shaping his unique perspective on art and expression. His college years further fueled his creative journey, delving into oil painting and graphic design, providing him with the tools needed to navigate the mainstream art world.

As the bassist for Night Versus, Herrera’s artistic endeavors extended to designing band merchandise. However, his one-of-a-kind style found a separate outlet when he started printing shirts independently. The venture led to the inception of Learn to Forget in 2013, a collaboration with longtime friend Mike Cambra, the drummer of Death by Stereo.

From its humble DIY beginnings, selling merchandise out of garages and car trunks, Learn to Forget has evolved into a global phenomenon, with products available in over 400 stores worldwide, including a partnership with Zumiez. The brand maintains a commitment to local production, with most designs printed locally and ensuring quality. Even when outsourcing is necessary, Herrera prefers locations like Pakistan for their craftsmanship.

Learn to Forget’s product range includes trucker hats featuring fonts reminiscent of death metal and hardcore band logos, jackets adorned with anarchy symbols, spider webs, and skulls. The designs pay homage to the rebellious spirit of punk rock, skating, and graffiti scenes, mirroring Herrera and Cambra’s upbringing in these distinctive subcultures.

The brand’s website showcases statement pieces with slogans rooted in punk community values. Messages like “Never Above You, Never Below You, Always Beside You” and “Respect Existence or Expect Resistance” echo the essence of the punk scene. Influenced by the politically charged punk band Propagandhi, Herrera and Cambra’s designs challenge the status quo and encourage individuality. Learn to Forget, born out of a mindset that unconsciously challenges boundaries, continues to push the envelope with boisterously confident statements and provocative designs.

The brand has ventured into collaborations with Pabst Blue Ribbon and iconic punk bands like the Adolescents, celebrating the 40th anniversary of their self-titled album. Herrera and Cambra aspire to expand collaborations with more bands, musical acts, and brands such as Dickies and Obey, envisioning a sustainable independent venture.

For Herrera and Cambra, Learn to Forget goes beyond a brand to become a trailblazing platform for artistic expression. It also serves as a response to the absence of financial safety nets for those immersed in the counterculture. The duo hopes to create an amplified sustainable business that allows them longevity in the industry without the need for conventional employment. Standing out with style, Learn to Forget thrives by staying true to Herrera and Cambra’s vision of what they find cool. Their approach of boldly doing what they believe in has propelled the brand’s success, making it a prominent player in the world of counterculture fashion.

February 22, 2024
Babes of Wellness Gym in Compton is Redefining the Way Women Experience Fitness

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When we think about fitness, the image that often comes to mind is intense workouts, competitive environments, and an overwhelming focus on physical appearance. This traditional view can be daunting and unwelcoming for many. But what if there was a place that turned this concept on its head? Welcome to Babes of Wellness in Compton, a gym that’s not just challenging these norms but completely rewriting them.

In 2018, Katalina Novoa, the proud daughter of Mexican immigrants, saw a gap in the fitness industry. She observed how conventional gyms often felt unsafe and unwelcoming, especially for women and queer people. Driven by the question, “How can I create a safe space for women and queer people to feel safe again?” she founded Babes of Wellness. This gym isn’t just about physical fitness; it’s a sanctuary where every member is encouraged to connect with their body in a positive, nurturing way.

One of the unique features of Babes of Wellness is the 12-week Senoras program, tailored specifically for women aged 50 and above. This program embodies the gym’s ethos perfectly. It’s not about pushing limits to the extreme but about understanding and embracing where each individual is in their fitness journey. Here, exercise feels like a celebration of the body’s capabilities rather than a punishment for its limitations.

“We’re really helping in mobilizing and teaching them what it feels like to connect with their bodies in a way that feels good, that feels like a celebration of what their bodies can do, not a punishment for what they can’t do,” Katalina shares. To that end, she endeavors to meet the Senoras where they are in their fitness journey. That’s why at Babes of Wellness, communication isn’t a barrier; it’s a bridge. Whether it’s through language choice or the nature of the exercises, everyone can find a welcoming space.

This approach resonates deeply with clients. Anna Perez, one of the program’s members, shares, “I feel good about myself. I’ve found a place that encourages me, not just telling me, ‘You have to do it this way.’ I feel great when I come here and I feel great when I leave.”

Other members echo the sentiments, expressing how Babes of Wellness is more than a gym; it’s a movement. As Katalina envisioned, it now stands as a beacon in the community, especially important in spaces where traditional gym environments have felt alienating. Katalina’s vision goes beyond physical fitness. It’s about nurturing self-care and self-love. This ethos is the heartbeat of Babes of Wellness, where the focus is on emotional well-being as much as it is on physical strength.

Most importantly, the impact of Babes of Wellness extends into the broader community. By creating a space where women and queer folks can feel safe and celebrated, the gym has become more than a place to work out. It’s a community hub, a source of empowerment, and a testament to the power of redefining conventional fitness narratives.

As Babes of Wellness continues to grow and impact lives, it stands as a shining example of what happens when fitness meets compassion, understanding, and a deep commitment to inclusivity. It’s a reminder that fitness is not just about the physical; it’s a holistic journey of the mind, body, and spirit.

January 25, 2024