LA Examiner

Author: Matthew Kayser

  • High Schooler Michael Deng Wins State-Wide and National Competitions by Tackling Critical Healthcare Problems With Innovative Solutions

    High Schooler Michael Deng Wins State-Wide and National Competitions by Tackling Critical Healthcare Problems With Innovative Solutions

    Michael Deng’s relationship to public health has been defined by his call to serve others in his community. While taking care of a senior for two years, working at a special needs ministry, and riding along with Emergency Medical Technicians, Michael noticed issues with healthcare that deeply affected the quality of care for patients. Even after Michael finished volunteering with these organizations, the sterile and pale environment of the senior home, the continued stigmatization of neurodiverse individuals, and the small moments of dehumanization that patients experienced in the back of the ambulance all stayed with him. 

    At the same time that Michael was building expertise in the public healthcare space, he was excelling as a musician. As a viola player with the California All-State High School Symphony Orchestra and co-principal of the California Youth Symphony Senior Orchestra, Michael learned how the unifying power of the arts can connect, inspire, and uplift audiences. He brings his commitment to working with others and implementing different perspectives to his influential work in entrepreneurship-focused competitions. 

    At the Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) competition, Michael worked with a team of peers to construct a multifaceted plan that would help solve the healthcare labor shortage for Kaiser Permanente after the pandemic, improving the quality of care for thousands of patients by incentivizing young students to enter into the healthcare industry. Impressed by his team’s innovation and creativity, the judges awarded him with the first place prize in the California state competition. His competitive success continued with the Global Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (GYEC), where Michael’s team proposed creating a magnetic braille tablet that allowed blind and deaf children to connect with normally sighted/hearing children and an educational platform that eliminated stereotyping between cultures. Notably, his team placed first in the United States and tenth globally. 

    His empathy for vulnerable communities extends past his unique ability to succeed in his musical and competitive endeavors. At his high school, Michael co-founded and leads the Pre-Med Club as its president, where he spreads awareness of diseases and healthcare concerns to his classmates. He is currently pursuing his American Red Cross cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) instructor certification in hopes that he can teach his club members CPR. 

    Michael will continue to leverage both artistic expression and direct healthcare interventions to build stronger, more equitable communities in the future. He is in the middle of developing a nonprofit that expands resource accessibility for low-income elementary schools to present at the Stanford Neurodiversity Summit 2025 and plans on studying a public-health related topic in college. As a future pediatrician or surgeon, Michael is looking forward to dedicating his career to revolutionizing the healthcare systems with his musical and entrepreneurial prowess.

    Written in partnership with Tom White

  • Your Rights if You’re Injured at the Gym

    Your Rights if You’re Injured at the Gym

    Image credit: Unsplash

    Going to the gym is a great way to stay in shape and improve your overall health, but accidents do happen. You may follow all the rules and still suffer a serious injury while working out. Gym injuries can be caused by several factors: defective equipment, a slippery floor or poor maintenance such as loose tiles in the locker room. If you do hurt yourself, it’s important to know your rights and what steps you can take to protect yourself.

    First, seek medical attention immediately. Even if your injury seems minor at first, it’s important to have it evaluated by a medical professional. Some serious injuries, such as concussions may not be

    immediately apparent. Doing so also provides a record of your injuries that can be used when filing a personal injury claim against those responsible.

    Next, inform the gym staff of your injury since you’ll want to fill out an accident form. Make sure to document the details of the accident, including the date, time, and location, as well as any witnesses who may have seen what happened. Get the name of the staff member that helps you. If you’re physically able to, take photos of the area also.

    Your gym may have signs warning they aren’t liable for injuries. Most also include some language to that effect in their membership contract. However, they are still responsible for maintaining a safe

    environment and providing equipment that is in good working order. If they fail to meet this duty of care, and you are injured as a result, you may be entitled to compensation.

    To prove negligence, you must show that the gym had a duty of care to you, that they breached that duty, and that their breach caused your injury. For example, if you slipped and fell on a wet floor that had not been marked with a warning sign, the gym may be held liable for your injuries because they failed to provide a safe environment. On the other hand, if you injured yourself because you used equipment improperly, you likely wouldn’t have a case.

    Attorney J.J. Dominguez of The Dominguez Firm stresses the importance of taking legal action quickly, “Consult with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. There is a time limit, legally known as the

    statute of limitations for filing a claim. It varies by state. In California, it’s two years from the date of your gym accident, in New York it’s three years. Also, waiting hurts your case. Vital evidence will be lost, you could lose contact with witnesses and defense attorneys will invariably question why you waited so long to file.” He continued, “You’ll need a personal injury lawyer. If you fell, which is the most common type of gym accident, preferably a slip and fall attorney,” he concluded.

    If you do decide to pursue legal action, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, do not speak to the gym’s insurance company or sign any documents from them. Insurance companies are often more concerned with protecting their bottom line than fairly compensating injured parties. If they can get a person to take a low offer, they will, regardless of the seriousness of the injuries. In short, all communication should be through your attorney.

    Second, document everything. Keep track of all medical bills and receipts, as well as any other expenses you may have incurred due to your injury. Among the types of compensation you could be entitled to are medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

    If you suffer a serious injury at the gym, know your right and how to protect them. Waiting for the

    insurance company to do the right thing is usually a bad idea. Instead, seek the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer. Let them deal with the insurance company so you can concentrate on feeling better.

    Written in partnership with Tom White

  • Smiles With Purpose: How Dr. Bill Dorfman Turned Dentistry Into a Movement

    Smiles With Purpose: How Dr. Bill Dorfman Turned Dentistry Into a Movement

    Image credit: Unsplash

    Before cosmetic dentistry had a seat at the cultural table, it was often sidelined by negative stereotypes—think Marathon Man or Little Shop of Horrors. However, the narrative changed when Dr. Bill Dorfman — Founder of Century City Aesthetic Dentistry — joined ABC’s Extreme Makeover. 

    “This was the first time cosmetic dentistry was ever highlighted in a transformative light on primetime TV,” he says. “It wasn’t just great for my practice, it was a win for the entire field.”

    The national exposure led to a spike in interest. “Our practice was busier than ever before—almost 200 new patients a month,” Dr. Dorfman recalls. But more importantly, the show reframed dentistry as empowering, not elective. “What gave Zoom Whitening the biggest push was Extreme Makeover,” he adds, referencing the teeth-whitening brand he co-created in the early 2000’s,.

    “There weren’t great teeth-whitening products on the market, so we created one”. What began as a recurring role on daytime television ultimately became a powerful catalyst for Dr. Dorfman’s brand, as he reflects, “That kind of visibility eventually helped us become known for the number one treatment for in-office teeth whitening, too.”

    Building Framework Beyond Fame

    Dr. Dorfman didn’t stop at clinical excellence or media appearances. He built a brand that spans wellness, entrepreneurship, and influence. His work has been featured on The Doctors, Oprah, Good Morning America, the E! Network, and more, but he emphasizes that it’s always been about impact.

     He remains committed to creating top-tier products that blend science, safety, and innovation. Most recently, Dr. Dorfman launched two enamel-safe solutions designed to fit seamlessly into modern lifestyles from the comfort of home: POOOF! Teeth Whitening Strips and Kickballz, a bold new caffeinated gum that delivers energy on the go — both products combining oral care with functional performance.

    Even Dr. Dorfman’s most glamorous contributions—like the million-dollar diamond-studded grill he created for Katy Perry’s “Dark Horse” video—speak to his innovation. The project earned him a second Guinness World Record and unexpectedly demonstrated how dentistry could intersect with pop culture.

    Celebrities and Service

    Known as “Hollywood’s Smile King,” Dr. Dorfman’s clients have included Anne Hathaway, Usher, and Eva Longoria. However, he quickly notes that his relationships with high-profile patients carry meaning far beyond his Century City office.

    Giving back has always been a priority for Dr. Dorfman, who supports his community through an organization he founded in 2013, LEAP Foundation — a nonprofit motivational leadership program. The foundation hosts a weeklong summer program, LEAP Week, providing high school students and young adults with a clear roadmap to success, many of whom come from underserved communities. It’s a passion project where the famed cosmetic dentist’s work creates a full circle moment with his famous clients, many of whom have donated their time, expertise, and life experience as LEAP Week guest speakers to help guide the next generation towards success.

    “The most significant thing that my high-profile patients have done for me is through my philanthropic endeavors,” he explains. Mark Wahlberg, Eva Longoria, and Paula Abdul have all come to participate in LEAP. Their presence helps us attract amazing students. They help generate value for philanthropy.”

    The LEAP Foundation: A Legacy in the Making

    This year’s LEAP Week runs from July 13th – July 19th, at Pepperdine University in Malibu, promising what Dr. Dorfman calls “internal transformation.”

    “The most meaningful and priceless value the students walk away with is truly believing in themselves,” he shares. 

    The foundation’s mantra, “walk like a ten,” encourages students to embody confidence in all areas of life. “If they want to be a ten in life, they need to walk like a ten, talk like a ten, act like a ten—and surround themselves with other tens.”
    For 60% of LEAP participants, it’s the first time someone has told them they’re capable of greatness. “By the time they leave, they know they’re a ten, and they know what they need to do to stay a ten,” Dr. Dorfman adds.

    Master your Mindset

    As both a clinician and mentor, Dr. Dorfman leads with intention. “Don’t wait for opportunities in life—make them,” he tells his LEAP students. “And when you do get a great opportunity, don’t just take it. Master it.” 

    This mindset has shaped everything from his Century City Aesthetic Dentistry practice to his bestselling book, Billion Dollar Smile.

    Though he’s known for giving patients their dream smiles, Dr. Dorfman wants people to know his office isn’t just for celebrities: “Everyone should have access to the best. That’s what drives me—helping people become the best version of themselves.”
    You can follow Dr. Bill Dorfman’s work at @drbilldorfman on Instagram or learn more about the upcoming LEAP Week at www.leapfoundation.com.

    Written in partnership with Tom White

  • Clearer Focus Starts Here: ADHD and ADD Testing in Temecula and Palm Desert

    Clearer Focus Starts Here: ADHD and ADD Testing in Temecula and Palm Desert

    Image credit: Unsplash

    ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) are neurodevelopmental conditions that affect millions of children and adults worldwide. They often show up as trouble focusing, staying organized, or following through on tasks, but these challenges are more than just bad habits. Left unaddressed, they can negatively impact school, work, and relationships.

    Getting tested for ADHD or ADD is a decisive step toward gaining more control over your life. For residents of Temecula and Palm Desert, support is now easier to find. With ADHD testing available in Temecula and a trusted ADHD specialist in Palm Desert, understanding how your brain works has never been more accessible or more critical.

    Testing isn’t just for kids anymore. Adults, too, are discovering how diagnosis can lead to fundamental changes in mood and productivity. 

    Recognizing the Signs of ADHD and ADD

    Attention disorders often go unnoticed. People may think they’re simply disorganized or not trying hard enough. In reality, ADHD and ADD can show up in ways that are easy to overlook.

    Common symptoms include trouble focusing, forgetting responsibilities, feeling restless, or being impulsive. If left unaddressed, these signs can appear in childhood and continue into adulthood.

    The Role of Evaluation in Managing ADHD

    Testing is the first step toward real answers. A clinical evaluation helps identify what’s going on, not just whether someone has ADHD or ADD, but how it affects their life.

    Benefits of early and accurate diagnosis: 

    • Prevents academic or work struggles from snowballing
    • Reduces stress in relationships and improves communication
    • Helps tailor effective strategies for support and care

    Without testing, many people continue to feel frustrated and misunderstood.

    ADHD Testing Options for Temecula Residents

    Local families and individuals now have ADHD testing available in Temecula. Evaluations are personalized based on age, background, and symptoms, so each person receives a complete understanding of their unique profile.

    Testing includes interviews, behavioral assessments, symptom questionnaires, and history reviews. These tools help remove guesswork from the equation and build a stronger plan for success. 

    Choosing the Right ADD Professionals in Temecula

    For an accurate diagnosis, seeking professional ADD testing in Temecula is essential. Experienced providers can tell the difference between ADD and other conditions like anxiety, depression, or learning differences. Look for a qualified provider with:

    • Clinical training in neurodevelopmental disorders
    • Experience with both children and adults
    • A personalized, non-judgmental approach to care

    Working with professionals who understand the whole picture leads to better outcomes.

    Accessing ADHD Specialist Care in Palm Desert

    For those in the Coachella Valley, working with a local ADHD specialist in Palm Desert means gaining access to thorough evaluations and targeted support. These experts provide a diagnosis and ongoing help with managing symptoms in real life.

    Services often include therapy referrals, medication options, planning tools for organization, and guidance for caregivers. With the proper support, living with ADHD becomes more manageable and much less stressful.

    Empowerment Through Diagnosis

    Getting tested doesn’t mean getting labeled; it means gaining insight. Diagnosis helps people understand how their brain works and how to adjust their environment and habits for success. You’ll walk away with:

    • A clearer picture of your challenges and strengths
    • Better tools to manage daily routines and focus
    • Support that’s built around how you think, not how others expect you to

    That kind of awareness is a game-changer. 

    Start Your Journey to Clarity

    If you live in Temecula or Palm Desert, testing is now within reach. With local professionals who care and personalized plans that work, this is your chance to move forward with clarity and confidence. 

    Start today and take the first step toward better focus, healthier habits, and a clearer mind.

    Written in partnership with Tom White

  • How Miriam Haregot is Creating a Space for East African Culture in LA

    How Miriam Haregot is Creating a Space for East African Culture in LA

    Image credit: Unsplash

    Founder of Motherland Sounds, Miriam Haregot, is ensuring that East African music and traditions have a place in the cultural landscape of Los Angeles. Haregot’s unique venture has quickly become an integral part of the city as a space that invites authenticity and community through sound.

    Sharing East African Culture With the Community

    Haregot is an entrepreneur hailing from Eritrea who founded Motherland Sounds with a team of five Ethiopians. She first opened the space to share the beauty of East African culture, but her simple idea quickly attracted attention on social media and by word of mouth. In a city that often focuses on West African narratives, Haregot’s approach is particularly impactful.

    As Haregot told the Los Angeles Sentinel, “We’re East African, and from our point of view, we show the world what it’s like on the East side of Africa because there’s a lot of exposure on the West.”

    Helping Others Value Authenticity

    Events at Motherland Sounds are defined by an authentic East African experience, something that can’t be found anywhere else in the city. Haregot reflected on a recent event that she hosted at Issa Rae’s Lost in Downtown LA, which didn’t bring the experience her audience expected.

    “When we couldn’t bring in our own East African-centered food, it kind of shifted the crowd,” Haregot said. “The location change made a difference. We’re coming back on March 26, and this time, we’re giving people the best of both worlds. We listened to their feedback, and I’m excited to show them what we’ve been working on.”

    It would seem that Haregot’s presence in the community has drawn positive attention to East African culture, from food to music—something that guests now seek out. Her work is building upon the vibrant LA experience while sharing something new with the community.

    A Passion for Community Service

    Outside of her work at Motherland Sounds, Haregot holds a passion for community service. Her P.A.C.K Project (People Advocating Community Kinship) aims to address the unhoused population across LA by providing home-cooked meals through initiatives like Feed the Homies and offering shelter space.

    “We’ve fed over 10,000 people,” Haregot said, “rotating chefs and cuisines every month. It gives people on the street something to look forward to. We’ve built a strong community of volunteers, chefs, and restaurants—mainly serving Skid Row and surrounding areas… My goal for 2025 is to create a self-sustaining shelter. I want to start with the children—teaching them life skills to help break the cycle.”

    Supporting a Community Through Authenticity

    Haregot’s ultimate mission is to support and build upon the LA community, introducing new cultural experiences while helping those around her. Each of her various initiatives is creating an authentic space that positively changes peoples’ attention toward cultures and societal issues, improving lives and inviting a diverse experience.

    A Mission of Resilient Growth

    Moving forward, Haregot only plans to continue in this mission of community growth and improvement. Her ideas become powerful forces in the city of LA, expressed through resilient and passionate dedication. Nothing is holding her back from selflessly creating change in the world around her.