LA Examiner

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  • Lakers and Nuggets: In Position for Another Potential Playoff Clash

    Lakers and Nuggets: In Position for Another Potential Playoff Clash

    Image credit: Unsplash

    The Los Angeles Lakers are in a position to play against the Denver Nuggets despite preseason doubts. This would be the Lakers’ third postseason playoff, in spite of people’s hesitation of first-year head coach JJ Redick.

    The team has a record of 20-15, putting them on track to secure the playoffs this season. The Lakers are expected to avoid the Play-In Tournament for the first time ever. This marks a huge accomplishment for the team, especially since this is JJ Redick’s first coaching season with the Lakers.

    The longstanding rivalry is keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The possible showdown will bring many eyes back to the court this season. The results may reignite Lakers fans’ confidence or be another notch in the Nuggets’ belt.

    The Western Conference Standings

    While the Lakers’ come-up this season has been exciting for fans, their path in the Western Conference sets the bar even higher. The team currently holds the fifth seed, just ahead of the Dallas Mavericks and LA Clippers. The Lakers are only half a game behind the Denver Nuggets for the fourth seed. 

    In this position, the LA Lakers are set to play against a familiar rival: the Denver Nuggets. The two team’s matchup has almost become routine in recent seasons. While fans have seen the two matched up in the past, a new Lakers coach could turn the longstanding rivalry into a bigger-than-before event.

    A Familiar Rivalry: A Possible Third Year in the Making

    The possibility of facing the Nuggets in the playoffs for the third year seems more than just possible this year. This recurring duel has become a marker of the Lakers’ recent postseason games, with the two teams meeting in three out of four of Los Angeles’ playoffs.

    The rivalry goes back to the 2020 NBA Playoffs. The Lakers won the games that year, ultimately securing the NBA championship. After their year of victory, the Lakers saw several losses. Instead, the Nuggets swept the Lakers in 2023 and 2024. Denver took home the decisive 4-1 series victory.

    Even more frustrating for fans, the Nuggets have also won their last five regular-season games against Los Angeles, standing as a formidable opponent for the Lakers. The feud continues to grow as the fight for the Playoffs continues. 

    High Stakes: Is It the Skills or the Mindset?

    While NBA fans are anticipating another potential meeting between the Lakers and Nuggets, the game is causing a lot of apprehension. The Nuggets’ recent victories in games have left the Lakers with damaged confidence. Will the Playoffs be dependent on the team’s psychological hurdles?

    However, with a new coach in charge, JJ Redick may just be the solution. Reddick could be the answer for the Lakers, giving them a new opportunity to finally defeat their ongoing postseason rivals. The potential for this game may shift the Lakers’ losing streak, giving them invaluable momentum for future games.

    A Lakers victory would not only break the pattern of repeated defeat but also restore confidence in the team and its fans. A triumph against the Nuggets would be pivotal for the team to demonstrate itself as a worthy contender in the Western Conference.

    Anticipation on the Rise

    If the current standings hold, the stage is set for another dramatic postseason game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Denver Nuggets. While the Lakers are facing an uphill battle against previous defeats, the potential confidence boost and series momentum make the challenge worth the effort.

    As both teams prepare for the final stretch of the season and to make moves before the trade deadline, basketball fans are keeping a close eye. Will the Lakers finally rewrite the script, or will the Nuggets continue to dominate?

  • Iconic Liu Cafe Expands to Serve Up Ice Cream Delight in Koreatown

    Iconic Liu Cafe Expands to Serve Up Ice Cream Delight in Koreatown

    Image credit: Unsplash

    Since its debut in 2023, Liu’s Cafe has become a beloved staple in Koreatown, capturing hearts with its Hong Kong and Taiwanese-inspired dishes. Now, the team behind the cafe is taking a leap into the world of desserts with the opening of Liu’s Creamery. Nestled next door, this charming ice cream shop offers a unique twist on classic Asian flavors, making it a must-visit for sweet-tooth adventurers.

    The Birth of Liu’s Creamery

    The idea of Liu’s Creamery started brewing in early 2024 when the team behind Liu’s Cafe decided to expand their culinary horizons. Inspired by Taiwan’s vibrant dessert culture, which celebrates treats like shaved ice and bubble tea, co-owner Patrick Liu envisioned an ice cream shop that would mirror the nostalgic flavors already celebrated in the cafe’s pastries. 

    Flavors That Delight

    Pastry chef Isabell Manibusan, who oversees desserts at Liu’s Cafe and modern Korean restaurant Danbi, also oversees the creative efforts at Liu’s Creamery. The initial menu boasts five unique flavors: Taiwanese milk tea, honey toast, and ginger pear sorbet. The secret tea egg special is a standout creation featuring black tea, braising spices, and soy sauce, topped with cured shaved egg yolk.

    Manibusan takes flavors people already love, like Ovaltine and honey toast, and gives them a fresh twist. Alongside these tasty scoops, the Creamery offers a full sundae bar with 22 toppings, ranging from red bean and grass jelly to candied sesame peanut powder.

    Signature Treats Worth Trying

    For those seeking recommendations, the night market special is a fan favorite. This sundae combines Taiwanese milk ice cream with cilantro oil, cilantro chiffonade, and candied sesame peanut powder. Another highlight is the Pineapple Cake Sundae. It’s made with Taiwanese milk ice cream, pineapple jam, butter cookie crumble, and pineapple cake cookies. Patrons can indulge without breaking the bank at $5 for a mini scoop and up to $7.50 for sundaes.

    Ambitions Beyond Ice Cream

    Though Liu’s Creamery currently focuses on ice cream, the team’s ambitions stretch far beyond frozen desserts. Manibusan looks to add warm pies, ice cream floats, and other sweet delights to the menu. “This is just the beginning,” she said. 

    Liu Cafe’s Culinary Legacy

    The success of Liu’s Creamery builds on the strong foundation established by Liu’s Cafe. Long Hospitality, the team behind the modern Korean restaurant Tokki, introduced Liu’s Cafe. The eatery is a daytime gem nestled in Koreatown. With the menu inspired by numerous visits to Hong Kong and Taiwan, the cafe offers a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary culinary influences.

    Liu’s Cafe treats diners to dishes like Chiayi chicken rice, braised pork belly rice, and beef curry with coconut cream, each priced around $10. Pastry offerings include pineapple buns, cream buns, and egg tarts, all crafted under Manibusan’s expert guidance. The cafe offers a unique take on sandwiches, like the tea egg salad with pickled cucumbers and a spicy fried chicken option. 

    Elevating the Experience

    The cafe’s ambiance is equally captivating. Designed by Studio Kosmo, the space combines vintage charm with modern minimalism. It’s a cozy setting where patrons can savor their meals. Alex Park, one of the partners, shared his vision. “I grew up in Korea and New York, and I want to make Koreatown in LA better,” he said.

    Liu Creamery’s Taste of the Future

    As Liu’s Creamery begins to carve its niche in Koreatown, it reflects the team’s commitment to innovation and cultural celebration. From the thoughtfully curated flavors to the warm, nostalgic ambiance, every detail tells a story of passion and creativity.

    Whether you’re a long-time fan of Liu’s Cafe or new to its culinary world, Liu’s Creamery promises a delightful experience. With plans to expand the menu, this ice cream shop could become a cherished Koreatown destination. “Liu’s Cafe is just the sort of casual spot you’ll come to again and again,” a patron said. 

  • L.A. Introduces New Program to Keep Homeless Veterans Inside

    L.A. Introduces New Program to Keep Homeless Veterans Inside

    Image credit: Unsplash

    Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough, Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors Chair Kathryn Barger, and Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis have all teamed together to launch a new initiative to bring more homeless Veterans inside and off the streets. 

    Today’s new initiative follows some surprising numbers released last week by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. These numbers show that while homelessness is up 18 percent nationally, it is down in Los Angeles specifically. In fact, L.A. has seen a 10 percent reduction in street homelessness. Furthermore, last year, Veteran homelessness also decreased by 23 percent in Los Angeles and reached a record low nationwide.

    “Our work to change the old and failed way of doing things is why we’re able to launch this new initiative and is why after years of increases locally and nationally, we’re bucking the trend and bringing homelessness down in LA,” said Mayor Bass. 

    “For too long, too many in government have accepted people living on the street. I do not accept the humanitarian crisis on our streets, especially when it comes to Angelenos who have served and sacrificed their bodies for our country. This initiative will help connect Veterans with property owners who will benefit from guaranteed rent payments and tenants who have proven themselves to be honorable and reliable. If you have apartments available, join us in this patriotic effort to save lives.”

    Support from the VA

    “We are ecstatic at the VA to support this initiative,” said VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “I have every confidence, as we say every day at VA, when we end homelessness for Veterans in Los Angeles, we will have shown America how to do it, and we are committed to making sure this gets done—today’s commitment to reach out to property owners, Mom-and-Pop landlords to get them to work with us as we do a better job executing our regulations. We are all in and we will not rest until every Veteran has precisely what she or he deserves, which is a dignified housing arrangement. So I thank you. We are thrilled to be part of this. We are committed to seeing this through.”

    “I was sleeping in my car after I lost my job, but then I was able to get connected to services and find an apartment that accepted my federal housing voucher. I’m so grateful for the stability that having an apartment has provided me. I want to encourage any Veterans who are living on the streets to reach out and get help today, and I want to ask property owners in L.A. to consider being part of this new initiative launched by Mayor Bass and help more Veterans like me get housed,” said U.S. Navy Veteran Harold Hicks.

    How to Aid the Campaign

    The campaign launched by Mayor Bass and Secretary McDonough calls on every sector in Los Angeles to get involved:

    Unhoused Vets

    If you are an unhoused Veteran in need of support and housing assistance, call 310-268-3350 to get started.

    Property Owners

    Mayor Bass has worked with the VA, the Housing Authority of the City of L.A. (HACLA), and the Los Angeles County Development Authority (LACDA) to focus staff on referring and processing more eligible Veterans to be placed in permanent housing. Under the direction of HACLA’s new leadership, more support is being provided to rental housing providers and property owners throughout the application process and also after tenants have moved in. If you want to rent to unhoused Veterans and you have units available or want more information about renting your units to Vets, email [email protected].

    Culture Leaders and Media Partners

    The mayor’s office needs help spreading the word about increasing the number of units open to Veterans. To get involved, email [email protected].

  • A New Art Fair Comes to LA

    A New Art Fair Comes to LA

    Image credit: Unsplash

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

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

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

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

    The Fluctuating Value of Creative Work

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

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

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

    Who Is Featured?

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

    The full list of participants is listed below:

    • 4649, Tokyo
    • Babst Gallery, Los Angeles
    • Castle, Los Angeles
    • Chris Sharp Gallery, Los Angeles
    • Cooper Cole, Toronto
    • Cruise Control, Cambria
    • Ehrlich Steinberg, Los Angeles
    • Et al., San Francisco
    • Good Weather, Little Rock, Chicago
    • Gordon Robichaux, New York
    • Harlesden High Street, London
    • House of Seiko, San Francisco
    • Kayokoyuki, Tokyo
    • King’s Leap, New York
    • Laurel Gitlen, New York
    • Lomex, New York
    • Louis Reed, New York
    • Michael Benevento, Los Angeles
    • Overduin & Co., Los Angeles
    • P.P.O.W., New York
    • Roland Ross, Margate
    • Sprüth Magers, Berlin, London, Los Angeles, New York
    • Tanya Leighton Gallery, Berlin, Los Angeles
    • Theta, New York
    • Tomio Koyama Gallery, Tokyo
    • Tureen, Dallas
    • The Untitled Love, Los Angeles
    • Zero…, Milan

    The fair is set to be an exciting event in the Los Angeles art scene. It is set to draw in art lovers from all over. 

  • The LA Art Show’s Thirty-Year Anniversary Is a Celebration of the Past and Future of LA Art

    The LA Art Show’s Thirty-Year Anniversary Is a Celebration of the Past and Future of LA Art

    Image credit: Pexels

    The LA Art Show is coming to the Los Angeles Convention Center in February for a big anniversary bash. The bash will celebrate art and the show’s full three decades.

    The thirty-year celebratory event will occur from Wednesday, Feb. 19, to Sunday, Feb. 23. The show will commemorate this milestone with DIVERSEartLA, the fair’s educational and non-commercial platform curated by Marisa Caichiolo. 

    DIVERSEartLA will further highlight the LA Art Show’s evolution, progress, and lasting impact over the last several years. It helps amplify marginalized perspectives, and the upcoming exhibition emphasizes the importance of diverse representation and advocacy.

    Looking Back to Move Forward

    The 2025 retrospective mirrors the evolution of the platform’s curatorial vision. Each piece featured at the event will be representative of a significant milestone that worked to challenge the status quo and encourage critical conversations about race, gender, and the complexities of modern existence at the time. 

    By utilizing this celebration to showcase all the ways in which pieces from the LA Art Show have helped cultivate a caring, empathetic, and vital conversation about pressing issues, the show can serve as both a congratulatory reflection upon the greatness that has been achieved and all that is to come. 

    The goal is not to pat the showrunners on the back but rather to remind people that they must stay abye in securing and sustaining their rights; the fight for equality is never truly over, and this exhibit’s work has been a pioneering voice in this field for three decades now, making it worthy of such weighty work.

    “This is the largest DTLA art event every year,” said LA Art Show director and producer Kassandra Voyagis. “It’s diverse, and holds a multitude of components from celebrating all forms of art. From the moment guests walk through the event to the second they leave, they will be immersed in extraordinary installations.”

    A 32-foot bear sculpture from the Danubiana Museum in Slovakia will greet patrons in the lobby. The bear symbolizes resilience and power and will set the event’s tone.

    DIVERSEartLA 2025 will also feature eight installations, a catalog, and a timeline showcasing performances and videos from previous years. The event will present works by a diverse group of artists and institutions.

    The Works on Display

    “Celebrating Diversity” by Chiachio & Giannone, curated by Gabriela Urtiaga, chief curator at the Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA), and presented by the museum, highlights themes of diversity and pride. This installation was created by renowned Argentine artists Leo Chiachio, Daniel Giannone, and over 3,000 LA residents.

    Over 100 volunteers carried the flag created for this installation during the 2019 Long Beach Pride Parade.

    “Dactiloscopia Rosa: Video Art and QUEER Constructions,” curated by Nestor Prieto and presented by Museo La Neomudejar in Madrid, offers a historical overview of the LGBTQ+ liberation movement in Spain from 1970 to 2016. The exhibition draws from the transfeminist and Queer archive of the museum, reflecting on the social movements during the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s under the Franco dictatorship.

    Carlos Martiel’s “Cauce/Riverbed,” curated by Marisa Caichiolo, addresses the struggles faced by immigrants in California and the United States. Through his performance, Martiel delves into the realities of undocumented immigration, shedding light on the lives of approximately 11 million immigrants and their families. His work presents a poignant view of the human tragedy faced by those who risk everything to pursue the “American Dream.”

    “This is going to be a massive celebration in supporting arts and culture,” Marisa Caichiolo said. “We want to embrace these amazing 30 years with our guests for encouraging artists and their work. While we bring in work from other cities and countries, we also want to honor local artists with a big art celebration. DTLA brings together so many diverse artists, and getting to showcase their work and watch other people experience these pieces for the first time is why we created this event.”

    DIVERSEartLA 2025

    WHEN: Various times Wednesday, Feb. 19, to Sunday, Feb. 23

    WHERE: Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa Street, DTLA

    COST: Tickets start at $35

    INFO: laartshow.com

  • The Best of Billie Eilish’s Los Angeles Homecoming

    The Best of Billie Eilish’s Los Angeles Homecoming

    Image credit: Unsplash

    Great performing artists often enjoy residences at famed venues such as Elton John and Billy Joel at New York City’s Madison Square Garden. At the tender age of 23, pop star Billie Eilish is reaching the resident stage in her hometown of Los Angeles’s Forum. The award-winning musician has played a number of times there since 2020 and recently completed her latest five-show engagement at the venue.

    This multi-show stint came in the midst of a busy time for Eilish, who is continuing her Hit Me Hard and Soft Tour, which includes 36 North American dates and is scheduled to end on February 2. After that, she will head down under to complete the tour’s international leg in Australia. 

    Each LA show featured a different opening act, including The Marias, Towa Bird, Nat and Alex Wolff, Ashnikko, and Finneas. 

    Experimenting with Visuals

    Eilish prides herself on using unique and intriguing visuals to accompany her acts. At the Forum gigs and throughout the current tour, she has created a music video-type atmosphere by including notable backdrops for each song in her set.

    Working Alongside Friends

    Eilish employs close childhood chums Jane and Ava as backup singers. The affable star made her buddies feel at home by announcing that the trio are long-standing pals, and this was Jane and Ava’s first tour.

    “We were friends in middle school, then there were a few years where our lives and things changed, and then everything came back how it was supposed to be,” Eilish said. 

    Using Her Platform

    Eilish is an outspoken supporter of abortion rights and a woman’s right to choose. The singer utilized the tour as an opportunity to make these feelings more public on a grand scale. At the LA shows, as well as other stops along the tour, she has performed her 2022 hit song “TV.” Eilish emphasizes lyrics such as “the internet’s gone wild watching movie stars on trial” before screaming the words “while they’re overturning Roe v Wade.” 

    At a recent LA show, the audience shouted the words right along with Eilish, who paused briefly to soak in the support given by her throngs of fans. The pop star enthusiastically supported Vice President Kamala Harris in the recent presidential election and encouraged her supporters to cast their ballots in her favor. 

    Celebrity Support

    It was not only civilians who liked Eilish’s music. The multiple Grammy Award recipient enjoys adoration from fellow celebrities such as Charli XCX, who first appeared at the first two Forum shows in the video. Eilish reciprocated by singing her supporter’s verse on the remix collaboration “Guess,” which the two worked on together. At the third LA show, Eilish brought the British pop star on stage with her. 

    Members of the social media and television-dominating family, the Kardashians, are also fans. The oldest sister, Kourtney, and younger sibling, Kim, attended different gigs. Kim even braved a broken foot to give Eilish some love.

    Showing Holiday Spirit

    Cognizant of the holiday season, Eilish displayed a significant degree of Christmas spirit during the Los Angeles engagement. Finneas, Eilish’s brother and musical collaborator, joined his sister on stage. Adorned in a Santa Claus hat, Eilish crooned several well-known holiday tunes, including “I’ll Be Home For Christmas” and “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.” 

    Christmas was not the only special occasion being celebrated. On December 18, during her hometown visit, Eilish turned 23. Finneas recognized the event by leading the audience in a community song, “Happy Birthday To You,” to honor her. Eilish completed the song by blowing out a candle inside a single cupcake that Finneas brought for his sister. 

  • Angel Investors in Los Angeles Are Crucial for Startups

    Angel Investors in Los Angeles Are Crucial for Startups

    Image credit: Unsplash

    Los Angeles is not just about Hollywood glitz and glamour. The city is also a hotbed for startups seeking early-stage funding. For budding startups, an angel investor is a valuable resource because these investors do more than invest money; they offer guidance, connections, and perhaps some star power. Mentorship is also a useful resource for startups.

    No matter which industry—tech, media, consumer goods—a startup is in, there is an angel investor who might be interested in investing in that entrepreneur’s vision. 

    Angel Investor for Early Stages Startups

    Clark Landry is an entrepreneur turned investor and is a name often heard in the startup world. Because of his career trajectory, he has a unique edge when deciding where to invest. After founding his own startups, Clark has now made over 120 investments in various companies. He does tend to favor software businesses but is open to investing in all industries. 

    “Clark’s knack for spotting potential in early-stage companies is what makes him a standout in the angel investing scene. His journey from founder to investor is a testament to his deep understanding of what it takes to build a successful business,” says an industry insider.

    Since his focus is on “seed-stage companies,” he is often one of the first investors in a startup. His mentorship based on his experience is invaluable, and he has a sincere interest in seeing startups succeed. Since he was an entrepreneur first, he also understands the difficulties startups face.

    Angel Investor for Software and Life Sciences

    In the startup scene of Southern California, Jim Brandt is a key angel investor. He is part of the Tech Coast Angels and focuses on software and life sciences. These two constantly evolving fields have plenty of investment opportunities. 

    The Tech Coast Angels have backed over 450 startups. The investment group is known for its active participation in the startup world. Brandt takes a strategic approach to investing and looks for innovation and potential growth in startups. 

    “I’ve always believed that backing the right idea at the right time can lead to transformative change. It’s about spotting that spark and helping it grow,” Brandt says.

    Brandt is also an investor who is interested in mentoring entrepreneurs to reach their full potential.

    Angel Investor for Various Industries

    Rosie O’Neill is considered a “powerhouse” in the investing world. She’s the founder of Sugarfina, a luxury candy boutique, and later started her investing fund, Pure Imagination Brands. O’Neill is open to exploring all opportunities in various industries. She is adept at spotting potential in early-stage startups and has backed over 50 startups. O’Neil prefers to be involved in startups when they’re just gaining their footing. 

    Mark Mullin is also open to investing in various industries and not focusing on just one. He had a successful career at RBC Capital Markets before he founded Bonfire Ventures. Mullin has a keen ability to spot potential early-stage companies. As he isn’t limited to one sector, he is open to all opportunities and is always on the lookout for the next big thing. He is known for his strategic thinking and takes calculated risks. Mullin doesn’t just care about making money but supporting ideas that can change the world. 

    Los Angeles Is Perfect for Entrepreneurs

    Los Angeles is where tech, media, and culture mix, creating a fertile ground for startups. It’s where “creativity meets entrepreneurship” and offers entrepreneurs opportunities that can make all the difference in their endeavors. Angel investors can make a significant difference in startups, not only by providing financial backing but also by providing mentorships with influential investors. 

    By networking at local startup events to meet investors and always having a pitch prepared, entrepreneurs can take advantage of opportunities in Los Angeles that they might not find elsewhere. 

  • Los Angeles’ Restaurant Options on New Year’s Day

    Los Angeles’ Restaurant Options on New Year’s Day

    Image credit: Unsplash

    In Spain, they eat one grape at midnight for every toll of the clock bell. In Mexico City, tamales are the go-to food. In Japan, households bid farewell with a bowl of soba noodles. While the particulars of what one eats to welcome in the new year, one thing is certain: food and drink are often used to ring in a fresh year of prosperity. Yet, heading out to restaurants to celebrate the new year may take some research and a little preplanning. 

    For Los Angelenos who don’t need to spend all New Year’s Day recovering from New Year’s Eve, January 1 can be quite a peaceful day in the city, with many shops, businesses, museums, and restaurants closing their doors for the holiday. If you would rather kick off the new year enjoying someone else’s culinary skills, there are plenty of restaurants that are open in Los Angeles on January 1—but you want to make a plan before 2025 arrives, as New Year’s Day reservations tend to get booked quickly.

    Below are some of the top tasty spots you could head to for New Year’s Day celebrations.

    The Lonely Oyster

    The Lonely Oyster, a seafood restaurant in Echo Park, is open every day of the year—including New Year’s Day. Consistently proving to be one of Southern California’s best places for lunch or dinner, you can welcome in 2025 with The Lonely Oyster’s saltwater menu, featuring crab cakes, fish and chips, cioppino, lobster rolls, and fresh oysters. Looking to celebrate with a drink? Check out this spot’s wine and cocktail list, curated to pair beautifully with every item on the menu. 

    1320 Echo Park Ave (Sunset), Los Angeles, CA 90026

    (213) 279-9413

    Encanto

    Located in Los Feliz, Encanto is a Baja California-inspired restaurant that is ringing in 2025 with an on-site DJ and specials. Partnering with local brewer Skyduster, Encanto is offering a $45 per person brunch on New Year’s Day. The brunch will feature micheladas on deck, a bloody mary/maria cart, oysters, churro French toast, an open-faced lox torta, and more.

    2121 Hillhurst Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

    (323) 741-0140

    The Benjamin

    Open for dinner on January 1 is partner Ben Shenassafar’s Hollywood restaurant, The Benjamin. Chef Johnny Cirelle will be whipping up deviled eggs, crab beignets, branzino, and a hearty cheeseburger for guests (don’t forget to order yourself a martini). If you’re looking to spend New Year’s Day at The Benjamin, you’ll want to act fast, as reservations tend to get booked quickly.

    7174 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, California 90046

    (323) 888-9000

    Ronan

    Prefer to keep celebrations simple and easy? Check out Ronan, whose menu features excellent dishes such as blistered pizzas, broccolini, and pork meatballs covered in sauce, basil, and Parmesan. Ronan’s drink menu features craft cocktails and biodynamic wines that are worth checking out. You may like to consider sipping the French 36 with Old Forester Bourbon, pomegranate, lemon, Angostura, and prosecco as you say hello to 2025. 

    7315 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046

    (323) 917-5100

    La Boheme

    In West Hollywood, you will find La Boheme hosting brunch from noon until 3:45 p.m. on New Year’s Day, serving up oysters, grilled octopus, omelets, and brioche French toast with berries. La Boheme is ready to celebrate 2025 with you, offering bottomless mimosas for $19 and a selection of non-alcoholic options from their innovative, zero-proof menu. 

    8400 Santa Monica Blvd (at Orlando Ave), West Hollywood, CA 90069

    (323) 848-2360

    Ryla

    Welcome in the new year in Hermosa Beach, with chefs Ray Hayashi and Cynthia Hetlinger’s restaurant Ryla. Just blocks away from the Pacific, this South Bay hotspot features dishes such as Hokkaido milk bread, fried snapper collars with chile-lime sauce, blue crab California rolls, miso ramen, and a Sichuan-laced grilled lamb chop. 

    1220 Hermosa Avenue, Hermosa Beach, California 90254

  • The Best Cannabis Dining Spots in Los Angeles

    The Best Cannabis Dining Spots in Los Angeles

    Image credit: Unsplash

    For those looking for a 420-friendly swanky restaurant in Los Angeles, there are multiple dining spots to explore and enjoy. These restaurants serve stunning dishes that aren’t your ordinary culinary delights. They feature weed-infused dishes that are a “union between fine dining and the herb” that appeals to many people. 

    It’s not a surprise that Los Angeles, a hub of cultural richness, has been the center of restaurants that feature THC-infused food. Cannabis cuisine is no longer just a fun novelty; it’s become an essential part of the dining landscape.

    The best cannabis dining in Los Angeles not only offers a place to eat good food but also immersive and vibrant experiences that expand on the boundaries of more traditional food options. The crème de la crème of cannabis restaurants has much to offer foodies and lovers of THC.

    The Standout Among Smoke and Eat Restaurants

    The ganja life is strong and vibrant at the Rainbow Bar & Grill, even though the food is not cannabis-infused. There are plenty of places that are BYOB, but in this case, it stands for Bring Your Own Bud. This restaurant features decor celebrating the entertainment industry’s finest memories while also offering lunch and dinner.

    This smoke-and-eat restaurant has been associated with celebrity culture since the 1950s. Famous diners include Vincente Minnelli and his then-wife Judy Garland, the parents of Liza Minelli. A legendary blind date occurred in the restaurant when Joe DiMaggio met Marilyn Monroe for the first time.

    Later, the Rainbow Bar & Grill became a popular hangout for famous musicians and their groupies. Among the regulars were Neil Diamond, Alice Cooper, Janis Joplin, John Lennon, Keith Moon, Elvis Presley, Grace Slick, Ringo Starr, Led Zeppelin, and many more.

    Weed-Infused Organic Food

    Popcultivate is the perfect dining spot for those who enjoy “luxury-infused, carefully sourced, organic ingredients” paired with “sun-grown cannabis.” The chef-curated cannabis menu brings the delight of gourmet cooking to everyday dining. The meticulously created menus include seasonal and sustainable dishes with a standard dose of 5 mg. There is also a curated selection of artisanal psychedelic-infused alcoholic beverages. The dining theme is “self-exploration and discovery.”

    The chef behind the extraordinary cuisine that is a perfect “marriage of food and cannabis” is Pop, who is also an event planner and designer.

    The First Original Cafe

    Los Angeles is the home of America’s first original Cannabis Cafe, which has been serving the community since 2019. The menu features all the familiar favorites but with the added ingredient of cannabis. The Cannabis Cafe also features a brunch where people enjoy cannabis-infused food that smells and tastes amazing. It’s a great place to get high and explore the menu but remain in control enough to enjoy table conversations.

    Baked Goods With Cannabis To Enjoy

    Cheba Bakery offers delicious and reliable edibles for those who are trying them for the first time or those who’d like to try something different from their regular THC treat. The bakery provides edibles that are sweet without an unpleasant aftertaste. Cheba’s edibles are made with quality ingredients that create mouth-watering treats, and they pay diligent attention to portions and balance. The bakery ensures customers know exactly how much weed is being consumed.

    Cheba Bakery’s mission is to create the best products, provide consistent customer service, and have the most attractive presentation of their baked goods in the market.

    Los Angeles Cannabis Restaurants Are Not To Be Missed

    For tourists and Angelinos, these are a few of the places to enjoy cannabis cuisine and discover captivating new flavors. Whether a cannabis enthusiast or someone just exploring a new realm of enjoyment, the city of Los Angeles is the perfect place to explore the fusion of cannabis and delicious food. 

  • After 50 Years, Alma del Barrio Still Delivers Latin Hits to LA

    After 50 Years, Alma del Barrio Still Delivers Latin Hits to LA

    Image credit: Unsplash

    KXLU, a non-commercial, educational broadcast station, delivers Latin beats to the LA population through its popular program, Alma del Barrio. With a debut over 50 years ago, Alma del Barrio is one the longest-running Latin music programs in the United States. The program runners reflect on this legacy and years of providing music to the Latino diaspora within the region.

    KXLU and the Debut of Alma del Barrio

    KXLU operates out of the Westchester campus of Loyola Marymount University with a license granted by the Federal Communications Commission, according to the official website. It was founded in the public interest and staffed by the university’s students, faculty, and volunteer staff. 

    The broadcast station made its on-air debut in 1957. In 1973, the first run of the Alma del Barrio program was initiated by then-students Enrique “Kiki” Soto and Raul Villa. 

    Alma del Barrio translates to “soul of the neighborhood.” Beyond showcasing excellent Latin music, Alma del Barrio educates listeners on the cultural origins of the music it plays and the artists who perform it. The program is now entering its 52nd year on the air. 

    Uplifting the Soul of the Community

    Within over half a century of running, Alma del Barrio has proven to be a pillar of the local community. As reported by SFGATE, it has worked as a resource for the Latin diaspora community in the region, promoting critical health initiatives, such as blood drives and local voter registrations.

    Alma del Barrio has also participated in the local culture of salsa clubs, festivals, and other events that sustain the music scenes of Southern California. The music and artists featured in the program help to tie together the diverse cultures living in the region, providing them the opportunity to celebrate their unique heritage. 

    A Dedication to Knowing the Beats

    The showrunners for Alma del Barrio strive to deliver not only Latin-themed playlists that will uplift the spirits of those stuck in LA traffic but also to provide genre knowledge and insights on the music they play.

    Nelson Rodriguez, one of the program’s several DJs who rotate sets on the show, spoke to SFGATE on his process. “I keep notes. I keep comments,” he stated. “I know everything about the recording—the name of the recording, who the singer is, then little tidbits.”

    Over his years of serving Alma del Barrio, Rodriguez has shared with listeners his deep knowledge of Afro-Cuban percussion, salsa romántica, cumbia, and more of the diverse sounds found under the umbrella of Latin music.

    Reaching the Next Generation of Latin Music Listeners

    Although Alma del Barrio has its roots in the local community across several generations, the music scene has proven to be an evolving one. A lot of contemporary music now incorporates elements of classic Latin genres, such as salsa, while putting new twists on it.

    Reaching younger generations of listeners has proven challenging for the runners of Alma del Barrio. Lydia Ammossow, the director of KXLU, commented on these barriers, stating, “I think it is challenging to get the current generation of students engaged in this music unless they have grown up with it if they have a parent or a grandparent and they have a natural connection.”

    To keep new generations engaged, Alma del Barrio takes cues from all listeners, young and old. “And so we started realizing that we have to be more focused on what’s happening on the internet and how we can incorporate that,” says DJ Rodriguez. 

    However, the stunning new beats have not always impressed older listeners. “Hey, you guys need to slow down your music a little bit because we’re now getting to an age that our hips can’t move that fast,” Rodriguez recalls being told by a listener.

    Like a delicate tango, Alma del Barrio dances between old traditions and new with its blend of diverse Latin beats from multiple regions. After over fifty years of serving the LA community, the program remains dedicated to keeping the music playing.

  • OpenAI Releases Sora to the Public, Shocking Hollywood

    OpenAI Releases Sora to the Public, Shocking Hollywood

    Image credit: Unsplash

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

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

    AI in Hollywood

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Will It Change Hollywood?

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

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

  • Christmas Events to Enjoy in Los Angeles During This Holiday Season

    Christmas Events to Enjoy in Los Angeles During This Holiday Season

    Image credit: Unsplash

    While it probably won’t snow in Los Angeles, there are plenty of Christmas events and other holiday activities to enjoy. From Christmas light displays to parades, theme parks to movies, Los Angeles isn’t lacking in holiday spirit. The following is a list of the best events you can participate in this season.

    The LA Zoo Lights

    The Los Angeles Zoo in Griffith Park is inviting visitors to take part in an immersive landscape of lights and lantern sculptures this Christmas season. The zoo has a long tradition of lights on the holidays, but the “Animals Aglow” event is entirely new. The seasonal celebration features larger-than-life lantern animal sculptures along a colorful trail of lights. The event lasts until January 5, 2025, but be sure to visit the zoo’s website for details and to buy tickets.

    “A Christmas Carol”

    Has showings until December 23 at A Noise Within’s classic theater in Pasadena, so you don’t want to miss out on this classic. “A Christmas Carol” is Charles Dickens’ tale of becoming a better person through holiday spirit, directed in this case by Geoff Elliott and Julia Rodriguez-Elliott. The play stars Elliott and other resident artists of the theater company, all of whom are among Los Angeles’ best classical actors. Visit the theater’s website for more information and tickets.

    Christmas at Santa’s Village

    Lasting until January 5, 2025, Lake Arrowhead’s Santa’s Village is one place where you might find snow. The village features light displays, a train ride, and a nighttime walk through the forest. There’s ice skating, snacks, and plenty of things to do. You can even enjoy breakfast with Santa or tea with Mrs. Claus with a separate ticket. Visit the village’s website for details and ticket information.

    The Marina Del Rey Boat Parade

    Whether you gather at Fisherman’s Village or Burton Chace Park, the view of the Marina Del Rey Boat Parade is undoubtedly a unique experience. Boats compete to win in categories including Best Theme, Best Animation, Best Lights, and more. Seventy boats will pass you in the marina, boasting holiday lights and other decorations. The event takes place on December 14, beginning at 5:55 pm with a fireworks show, and the boat parade starts at 6 pm.

    Yuletide Cinemaland

    Until December 23, Street Food Cinema is hosting a series of outdoor activities. With a cup of hot chocolate, you can enjoy a stroll through a light tunnel, take part in a piano sing-along, or even go on a Victorian home tour before stopping to watch an outdoor holiday screening. With classic films like Elf, Home Alone, The Muppet Christmas Carol, and more, Yuletide Cinemaland is full of holiday cheer. To learn more or to purchase tickets, visit Street Food Cinema’s website.

    “The Nutcracker”

    The Los Angeles Ballet is performing “The Nutcracker” with a distinct SoCal twist in Westwood, Pasadena, and Hollywood theaters until December 28 this holiday season. The ballet is a classic show filled with excitement and dance for the whole family. The show will have ten performances in Hollywood, with an orchestra accompanying it. Visit the Los Angeles Ballet website for more information.

    The Los Angeles Christmas Market

    Situated in the Downtown Arts District at ROW DTLA, the Los Angeles Christmas Market aims to bring you the experience of a European Christmas market. The event features festive food and drink, ranging from schnitzel to eggnog, and plenty of opportunities for Christmas shopping, photos, and holiday activities. Visit the Eventbrite page for more information on tickets.

    Christmas in LA

    All in all, Los Angeles looks like a festive place during Christmas. From classic shows to modern takes on the holidays, there is plenty to do in the city.