Tag: los angeles

Human Trafficking Task Force Announces Hundreds of Arrests Made During Weeklong Operation

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This past Tuesday, January 30th, marked a significant announcement by Los Angeles Sheriff Robert Luna, who revealed the outcomes of an extensive week-long crackdown on human trafficking. Luna confirmed that the operation led to the arrest of hundreds of individuals involved.

At a morning press briefing at 10:00 a.m., Sheriff Luna made his stance clear, stating, “Human trafficking and child exploitation are heinous acts that target some of our society’s most defenseless.”

Human trafficking, essentially a contemporary form of slavery, is perpetrated primarily for sexual exploitation or forced labor. Annually, the U.S. reports thousands of such incidents, with many cases implicating multiple victims.

The majority of the reported human trafficking cases reported in 2021 were victims of sex trafficking, which found 1,023 cases. A total of 131 cases were for labor, while 63 cases were for sex and labor.

Females are disproportionately victimized by human trafficking as the above-mentioned cases involved 1,108 females compared to 164 males. These cases affected a total of 978 adults and 246 minors.

The LA-based operation was conducted as a statewide effort and dubbed Operation Reclaim and Rebuild. It involved over 95 federal, state, and local agencies. In a news release on Monday, January 19th, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said that numerous specialized task forces throughout the state of California were also involved in the operation.

The news release stated, “California law enforcement and the Los Angeles Regional Human Trafficking Task Force made hundreds of arrests, and rescued adult and juvenile female victims.” During the news conference, Luna dove much further, breaking down the numbers of all those who were arrested in the operation.

Sheriff Luna was joined in the news conference, which was streamed live on the LASD Facebook page, by Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang from Homeland Security Investigation. Luna was also joined by Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascon.

According to Luna, police in this operation arrested a total of 539 criminals. Among those who were arrested, 40 were suspected traffickers and exploiters. At least 271 were reportedly suspected sex buyers.

Throughout the course of the operation, a total of 54 adults and 11 children were rescued, according to reports.

According to the National Human Trafficking Hotline (NHTH), which maintains one of the most extensive data sets on human trafficking in the U.S., a total of 5,257 signals were received by the Hotline in in 2021 in California. A total of 1,999 of those signals were initiated by victims or survivors of human trafficking.

The NHTH works closely with local law enforcement agencies, various service providers, and many other professionals and institutions across California. The purpose of the work the NHTH performs in conjunction with these groups is to serve the victims and survivors of human trafficking. The NHTH maintains meticulous data, responds to human trafficking cases, and shares information and resources.

Anyone who has been the victim of human trafficking or anyone with a tip regarding a situation involving sex trafficking, labor trafficking, or any other form is urged to contact the NHTH via phone call, text, or online.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

February 6, 2024
James Beard Award 2024 Announces 18 Semifinalists from L.A.

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A notable line-up of 18 exceptional Los Angeles chefs and restaurants have earned the esteemed distinction of being named semifinalists for the 2024 James Beard Foundation Awards. Hollywood’s own Luv2Eat Thai Bistro has secured its semifinalist nod from the James Beard Foundation, marking a significant milestone. As the anticipation builds, the unveiling of finalists for these coveted awards is slated for April, leading up to the grand awards ceremony scheduled for June 10 in the culinary hub of Chicago.

This year’s array of semifinalists showcases the diversity and excellence that characterize the Los Angeles culinary scene. Among the prominent figures is Greg Dulan of South L.A.’s iconic Dulan’s Soul Food Kitchen, Dulan’s on Crenshaw, and Dulanville. His continued recognition, having been a contender in the outstanding restaurateur category in both 2023 and 2022, highlights his enduring impact on the culinary space.

Rashida Holmes, recognized for her Caribbean pop-up Bridgetown Roti, has transitioned from last year’s emerging chef nominee to this year’s semifinalist for outstanding chef. Joining her in this prestigious category is Jeremy Fox of Santa Monica’s Birdie G’s and the Rustic Canyon Family restaurant group. The group also includes Esters Wine Shop & Bar, nominated for outstanding bar for the second consecutive year.

The emergence of new contenders injects a fresh dimension into this year’s awards. Danielle Duran-Zecca and Alessandro Zecca of Highland Park’s Amiga Amore have secured their place in the emerging chefs category, ushering in a new wave of talent. Meanwhile, Cypress Park’s Barra Santos, associated with the restaurant group behind Found Oysters and Queen St., stands as the sole Southern California representative in the running for best new restaurant. Luv2Eat Thai Bistro, a Hollywood mainstay, has earned its first James Beard Foundation commendation, specifically in the outstanding hospitality division.

The spotlight also falls on some familiar names making their debut as semifinalists. Gusto Bread in Long Beach, with its emphasis on heritage grains, secures its first Beard Foundation nod as the only California semifinalist in the outstanding bakery category. Meanwhile, Nicole Rucker of Fat & Flour, known for her stall in Grand Central Market and a new cafe in Culver City, is acknowledged as a semifinalist in the category of outstanding pastry chef or baker.

In the category of best chef, the competition is fierce, featuring standout chefs from various culinary establishments. Diego Argoti of Poltergeist in Echo Park is among the contenders, alongside culinary talents like Alex Garcia and Elvia Huerta of Evil Cooks, Dima Habibeh of Ammatoli in Long Beach, Jihee Kim of Perilla in Victor Heights, and several others. The announcement of the winner of this coveted title, previously held by Justin Pichetrungsi, chef of L.A. Times restaurant of 2022 Anajak Thai, will be eagerly awaited at the awards ceremony.

Los Angeles continues to stand as a beacon of innovation in diverse cuisines. The culinary world now eagerly awaits the unveiling of the 2024 James Beard Foundation Award nominees in April. The final revelation of winners will take place at the awards ceremony on June 10 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago, celebrating the exceptional contributions of these culinary trailblazers.

January 30, 2024
Instagram Famous “Ribbon of Light” Bridge in Los Angeles Goes Dark After Being Targeted by Copper Thieves

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A Los Angeles Bridge known as “The Ribbon of Light” went dark just in time for Christmas and has remained troubled ever since. The 6th Street Bridge, a $588 million project, had ten illuminated arches that depended on electrical boxes at ground level, which were discovered open and stripped of copper wiring on December 22, 2023. Several of the bridge’s arches went dark as a result.

Copper theft targeting electrical wiring has been a long-suffered problem in the US, with the FBI warning of threats to critical infrastructure back in 2008. This is not the first target of such theft in Los Angeles. In a statement to the LA Times, a city councilman said that around $500,000 has been spent fixing theft-damaged city lighting alone. The LA Times cited 1,200 open cases of suspected wire thefts inside the city, which included not just lighting but also Metro rail cars.

In a statement to local outlet ABC7, the city’s public works department said, “We understand the impact of these thefts on the community, and we are committed to taking every necessary step to safeguard our infrastructure and maintain the safety and reliability of our city’s lighting systems.”

Connecting the city’s art district to Whittier Boulevard and Eastside, the 6th Street Bridge has been popular for social media stunts ever since it was first opened in 2022. The bridge is a four-lane viaduct with pedestrian paths on both sides and ten pairs of thirty-foot-tall concrete arches. The bridge has been periodically closed for a variety of reasons that mostly stem from misuse of the space for dangerous stunts. Police have closed the bridge to stop drivers from spinning donuts in its center and to prevent people from climbing on the arches or skateboarders from riding on them. In May of 2023, a 17-year-old fell to his death attempting to climb the arches.

The bridge remains a popular public destination. The 2022 renovation that accompanied the bridge’s construction included a twelve-acre public park below the bridge. The space is accessible from the bridge by pedestrian paths and bike paths. The space includes recreational fields and a café along the LA River, as well as a public art plaza for the display of community projects. The entire project comprises the largest bridge project in the city’s history and was the winner of the American Council of Engineering Company’s 2023 Grand Concept Award.

The 6th Street Bridge was designed by Michael Maltzen Architecture. In a release describing the project, the architecture firm said, “It seeks to overcome the silo effect caused in the past by infrastructure, countering it with the vibrancy and ‘connectiveness’ of a ‘civicstructure’.” The large concrete “ribbons” were intended to reference the arches of the old 6th Street viaduct, which had been built in 1932. The old bridge had to be demolished beginning in 2018 due to serious structural issues that resulted from “architectural unsophistication,” which left the bridge seismically unsound.

The new bridge’s design, connections between city centers and the park below, and its distinctive lighting gave it a fast reputation as one of LA’s most distinctive features. Locals are eager to see the damage repaired.

January 24, 2024
39th Annual Kingdom Day Parade Held in LA to Celebrate the Great Martin Luther King’s Birthday

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Los Angeles reverberated with joy as it became the festive stage for the 39th Annual Kingdom Day Parade, a heartfelt tribute to the great Martin Luther King Jr. on his 95th birthday. Boasting a large turnout, individuals gathered at Leimert Park to pay homage to the civil rights leader’s profound impact and to contemplate his enduring legacy.

The LAUSD All District Honor Marching Band took the lead, commencing the three-mile parade along MLK Jr. Boulevard in Leimert Park. The resonant theme for the momentous event was “Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop, Going to the Promised Land,” serving as a rallying cry for parade attendees and special guests alike.

Inspired by the unforgettable legacy of Dr. King, Congresswoman Maxine Waters walked the entirety of the parade route, expressing how fighting for the people drives her. Leading the parade as the grand marshal was LA County Supervisor Holly Mitchell, who chose a unique mode of participation. Mitchell biked on two wheels to convey a message of health and environmental awareness. The supervisor emphasized the connection between Dr. King’s commitment to health equity and climate justice as she declared climate to be king.

Archie Williams, a contestant from America’s Got Talent, found immense resonance with Dr. King’s message, emphasizing the pervasive truth that injustice anywhere poses a threat to justice everywhere. Williams, who faced wrongful conviction and spent an agonizing 36 years in prison until the Innocence Project cleared his name through DNA evidence, shared that this is a day he dreamed of and he felt privileged to honor Dr. King at the event.

The theme “Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop, Going to the Promised Land” was a fitting tribute to the late civil rights leader. The event, distinguished as the world’s largest and longest-running celebration in honor of Martin Luther King Jr., holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Los Angeles as a cherished tradition. The lively procession traversed west on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. and down Crenshaw Blvd., culminating near Leimert Park, where the festivities continued with a vibrant community festival.

Dr. Adrian Dove, chairman, and executive producer of the parade, shared that the enduring success of the Kingdom Day Parade is fundamentally attributed to “the people.” The parade drew participation from esteemed officials, including L.A. Mayor Karen Bass and California Attorney General Rob Bonta, who proudly marched to demonstrate their relentless commitment to Dr. King’s vision. Mayor Karen Bass emphasized the day’s significance, underlining that it was an opportunity not just to celebrate but to recommit to Dr. King’s vision, believing the holiday to be a time to work and think about what lay ahead.

As the sun set on this empowering day of celebration, the Kingdom Day Parade stood as a living testament to the enduring impact of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy. It brought together a diverse community of individuals from various walks of life to honor his revolutionary vision of equality, justice, and unity. The great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s life remains a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey toward a more just and harmonious society.

January 23, 2024
Rising Food and Labor Costs Lead to Mass Closing of LA Restaurants

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Los Angeles, a city once celebrated for its dynamic and diverse culinary scene, is now facing an unprecedented crisis. From high-end dining establishments to local favorites, LA eateries are closing at an alarming rate and reshaping the city’s dining experience.

2023 has been particularly harsh for the restaurant industry. After many agonizing months, several well-known and critically acclaimed restaurants have made the difficult decision to close. The reasons are multifaceted but center around economic strains that have been intensifying in the post-pandemic era.

Restaurant owners paint a bleak picture of the current situation. They highlight that operating in LA has become increasingly challenging due to the rising costs of ingredients and labor. These costs are not just numbers on a balance sheet; they directly impact menu prices, staff retention, and the overall viability of running a restaurant.

“I don’t know if we’ve seen the end of how the pandemic has affected restaurants,” one restaurant owner expresses. “People are being more careful about where they’re spending their money.”

The situation is further exacerbated by the recent entertainment industry strike. LA, known for its close ties to Hollywood, has seen a significant drop in patronage from this sector. The strike has led to a decrease in bookings for private events and regular dining. These were once reliable revenue streams for many establishments.

Furthermore, government assistance programs like the Paycheck Protection Program and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund, which provided a lifeline during the peak of the pandemic, have since dried up. This has left many restaurant owners navigating the treacherous waters of high commercial rents and operational costs without their previous safety net.

“The economics of owning a restaurant are completely out of whack right now,” chef Chris Feldmeier expressed in an interview with SFGate. “We used to try to keep our labor costs under 30%, but now they’re inching up closer to 40%. With cooks making $22 to $25 an hour, it’s just hard for a small, private restaurant.”

These closures have an impact beyond just economics. Each shuttered restaurant signifies a loss of community space, a blow to the city’s cultural fabric, and the end of many individuals’ livelihoods. The diversity of Los Angeles’s culinary scene has always been one of its strongest assets. As more restaurants close, the city risks losing a part of its identity.

Owners and industry experts are calling for a reevaluation of the current economic model of the restaurant business. They suggest a shift in perspective is necessary, where value is placed not just on the bottom line but also on the sustainability of the industry and the well-being of its workforce.

Moving into the new year, LA’s restauranteurs hope the worst is behind them. However, with no immediate relief in sight, the restaurant industry braces for more potential closures. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether LA’s dining scene can adapt and overcome these challenges. If not, this wave of closures may continue to sweep across the city, leaving a markedly changed culinary landscape in its wake.

December 26, 2023
L.A.’s Trending Gen Z Spot: Barney’s Beanery?!

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Barney’s Beanery is back in style, bringing ‘90s flavor back in a big way. Nostalgia enthusiasts—namely, a slew of twenty-somethings—are waiting in lines down the sidewalk of up to 50 people just to get in. At 10 p.m. on a Saturday night, Barney’s Beanery is the place to be.

The century-old bar offers patrons food and fun that more typical entertainment venues simply can’t offer. The dive bar and diner serve social groups circling packed pool tables, shuffleboard games, and retro arcade games. It’s giving ‘90s and 2000s vibes with all the purely energetic fun that encompassed the decades. From birthday celebrations to your average (and otherwise dull) evening, Barney’s Beanery is re-re-defining fun.

Barney’s Beanery was founded by L.A. native and World War I veteran John “Barney” Anthony in Berkeley in 1920 but moved to West Hollywood by 1927. Rising celebrities and up-and-comers have been hitting the establishment for the last hundred years. One wall displays a framed canceled check from Marilyn Monroe herself for an order of their famous chili. Tales of celebrities encapsulate the building. When you visit, if you ask for some anecdotes about the diner, you could be there for hours on end. You might even end up sitting in Quentin Tarantino’s favorite booth.

Bar Rescue’s John Taffer used to manage the place, serving regulars like Sylvester Stallone and Francis Ford Coppola beer in the 1980s. While it remained a community staple, the young crowd hadn’t fully taken to it until now—and now, their enthusiasm can’t be stopped. The general consensus is that there’s just a feeling, energy, or vibe that’s too attractive to miss. Once people give in to the FOMO and go for themselves, they can’t help but want to go back. And they’re willing to wait in line to do it.

“I think the long-term success of Barney’s is because we have this sort of magic to us,” stated manager AJ Sacher. “Barney’s feels like a place from where you’re from, wherever that is. It’s hard to put your finger on why, and it’s kind of uncanny.”

Whether you want to eat waffles and play basketball or be where the TikTok ‘it’ girls are at, Barney’s has you covered. If you want to casually bump into Selena Gomez, you might be able to do that, too. She showed up in April and August of this year, sparking national attention and sending the local hype into overdrive.

Celebrities and new community members alike love the joint. Take Turner Anderson, 23, who moved to LA from Texas about six weeks ago. She spent the evening there with her friends, excited about the vintage pinball machines. “This bar has more of a Texas vibe than anywhere I’ve been in L.A.,” says Anderson, who learned about the bar from her new friends. “You can come here and be able to talk to your friends and not have to scream at them.”

According to Avery Morgan and Nathalie Eid, two 21-year-old students who hang out at Barney’s, “It’s a lot different from what I expected. The crowd [at Barney’s] is really diverse. A lot of places in L.A. are very niche. The crowd here isn’t your typical stuck-up L.A. club people.”

While fresh blood is determined to spice things up, the regulars aren’t far to be found. Barney’s ‘VIP’ Marco DelVecchio, about to appear in Season 3 of Fboy Island, is a self-appointed promoter of the place. The 28-year-old stand-up comedian records his podcast on the patio, enjoying every minute of it. He talks with influencers and personalities like Justin Bieber on the podcast in a comfortable environment where people don’t ask for photos and autographs—they’re just there to chill.

The excitement isn’t expected to die down any time soon. So, if you’re headed out Saturday night, you might want to leave a bit earlier to beat the queue.

November 14, 2023
Agreement Reached to Withdraw L.A. Homeless Housing Initiative from March Election

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Los Angeles City Council President Paul Krekorian has recently entered a significant deal with the influential hotel workers’ union that impacted the city’s ongoing housing debate. Marking a pivotal move, the deal effectively removes a controversial ballot measure from the upcoming March election. The election was expected to have mandated the participation of hotels in a city program that was designed to provide shelter to homeless residents in vacant hotel rooms.

The terms of this groundbreaking agreement clearly state that the City Council gave a nod to a fresh set of regulations affecting the development of new hotels. These regulations are anticipated to make the approval process more rigorous for the forthcoming hotel projects, thereby enhancing the level of scrutiny on such procedures. Moreover, hotel developers will be held accountable if any residential housing is demolished in the process of construction. This necessitates the replacement of these housing units either through new constructions or through the acquisition and renovation of properties.

The proposal championed by the Unite Here Local 11 is equally significant as it represents the interests of over 32,000 hospitality workers in Southern California and Arizona. As the stipulation of their proposal to house homeless residents in hotel rooms becomes voluntary, it highlights the effective blueprint of Inside Safe, an initiative spearheaded by Mayor Karen Bass to tackle homelessness. Notably, hotel owners have participated in the existing program, reflecting their willingness to constructively address the issue.

The collaborative agreement has been praised by Unite Here Local 11, whose co-president, Kurt Petersen, sheds light on the importance of securing housing for their members within reasonable proximity to their workplaces. He stated, “With this ordinance, we have done more to protect housing than any single contract demand would have done,” This move hints at a significant breakthrough in their ongoing campaign for better working and living conditions.

While the proposal has already secured support from five other council members, including Hugo Soto-Martínez, John Lee, Katy Yaroslavsky, Nithya Raman, and Traci Park, its potential ramifications have prompted intense scrutiny due to certain complications. Council member Park, a member of the council’s trade and tourism committee, expressed concerns over the original measure. The member highlighted the potential pitfalls of housing vulnerable individuals who are devoid of comprehensive on-site support services. Her remarks reflect a dire need for a holistic approach to address homelessness that accounts for the complexities of social services necessary for sustainable rehabilitation and reintegration.

Unite Here’s prolonged efforts to secure improved wages and working conditions for its members have witnessed the arrival of the latest accord. It has manifested a series of localized strikes and successful negotiations with several hotels across Southern California. Their contribution to the election of former Unite Here organizer Hugo Soto-Martínez shows their involvement in the political arena, which eventually made them a formidable force in shaping L.A.’s policy landscape.

Amidst the rush of hotel developments, the ongoing battle to preserve affordable housing has emerged as a focal point for the union. This is where Krekorian’s proposal intends to make the evaluation process more rigorous for potential hotel projects, emphasizing the need to assess the impact on housing demand and other vital community services. This emphasis is a critical step forward to ensure balanced urban development, considering the multifaceted needs of the city’s populace.

Amidst the discourse, the hotel industry has raised concerns about potential safety and operational challenges associated with housing vulnerable populations. Their concerns stem from the unpleasant experiences documented during the implementation of the now-defunct Project Roomkey program, which struggled to overcome various logistical and security challenges due to the influx of homeless residents into hotels during the pandemic.

As the destiny of the proposal unfolds, implementing this multifaceted approach is expected to shape the city’s housing and hospitality landscape. With a keen focus on responsible and community-conscious development, the collaborative efforts between key stakeholders hint at a potential turning point to strike a balance between economic growth and social welfare.

November 10, 2023
Underground Jazz Movement in L.A.: The Hidden Concerts Cultivating a Fervent Fanbase

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For years, a hidden jazz phenomenon has been quietly brewing within the vibrant city of Los Angeles, drawing fervent fans and creating an enviable underground music scene. The man behind this movement is Yousef Hilmy, the founder and creative director of Minaret Records. Hilmy’s journey and his dedication to preserving and advancing jazz culture in L.A. offer a unique perspective into the city’s electric music scene.

Hilmy’s commitment to creating a jazz community that thrives in the face of challenges like government policies, economic uncertainty, and inaccessibility has been the driving force behind Minaret’s success. Minaret Records, founded in 2019, has been on a mission to make jazz accessible to people of all ages and to ensure that musicians are compensated fairly for their performances. Hilmy’s hands-on approach to every show reflects his dedication. He takes care of everything, from adjusting lights to lighting incense and checking microphones. His friends and fellow jazz enthusiasts often join him, wearing Minaret merchandise and helping with various tasks to support the cause.

Hilmy is clear that Minaret is a community effort, and it’s not just about him. It’s about everyone who contributes to defining the sound and spirit of Minaret. The jazz label is more than just a record company; it’s a movement that connects people through music. The inception of Minaret Records was driven by a shared feeling of dissatisfaction within the jazz community. Hilmy and his peers believed that existing labels weren’t doing enough to support independent music and young artists.

The aficionado’s love for jazz developed gradually, with influences ranging from Miles Davis to Charles Mingus, hip-hop samples, and music from his Egyptian heritage. Growing up in Orange County, Hilmy often found himself at the center of a cultural divide, facing prejudice due to his Arab identity. Despite the challenges, he pursued his passions, eventually transferring to Brown University to study English.

The birth of Minaret Records came from a chance meeting with artist Takoda in an abandoned house in Santa Ana, California. They both envisioned creating a jazz label that represented youth culture and expanded the genre’s legacy. Hilmy’s tireless efforts and relentless commitment have made him a crucial figure in the jazz scene.

What sets Minaret apart is its sense of community. Going beyond the average record label, Minaret stands out as a collective of friends and like-minded individuals who come together to support jazz. Hilmy strives for more representation of women and queer individuals within Minaret and aims to participate in charity and education. The future of Minaret is promising, with plans for festivals, collaborations, and a growing backlog of demos. Hilmy’s boundless energy and passion continue to drive the label forward, making it an essential part of the L.A. jazz scene.

Unpredictability is part of the art form in jazz. Similarly, the intertwined fates of Minaret and Yousef Hilmy are part of a larger symphony of passion for the L.A. jazz scene. As the jazz community continues to grow, Hilmy and Minaret Records will remain at the heart of this thriving movement, fostering a culture of inclusion and appreciation for the timeless art of jazz.

November 7, 2023
New Frights Await as Haunted Hayride Launches in Los Angeles

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Guess what’s new at the Haunted Hayride in Griffith Park, LA? This year, they’re introducing the chilling “Hellbilly Halloween” – a spooky dive into a cannibal family’s home. Yikes!

The Haunted Hayride has been LA’s go-to for Halloween fun for the last fifteen years. From haunted houses to mazes and games, there’s something for everyone. And the cherry on top? The iconic Hayride through the eerie town of Midnight Falls is set up mainly in Griffith Park each year. If you’re looking for spooky vibes, drop by anytime from late September right up to Halloween night.

This year, the Haunted Hayride will host three haunted mazes: the Morbid Mortuary, Midnight Falls walkthrough, and the new Hellbilly Halloween. Each is full of scary characters ready to frighten you. Hellbilly Halloween is a large haunt, offering customers the chance to enter the home of a family of hillbilly cannibals. The maze allows visitors to walk through various rooms in the run-down house, full of bodies, blood, and terror. The place is also fog-filled, making it challenging to find the exit. “It was pretty scary. I was sweating,” said Sofia Lauren as she exited Hellbilly Halloween. “I was like, ‘When is this going to end?’ I was looking for the end because it was a little too long, but it was fun,” the Monrovia resident continued.

Explore the New “Hellbilly Halloween” Maze

This year, the Hayride got a bit of a facelift! Not only will there be more unexpected spooks, but you’re also in for a comfier ride. Remember how we just sat on a hay spread on the wagon floor? Well, now they’ve set up hay bales around the sides, making it much cozier to sit. So, brace yourself for a thrilling journey through the park’s wild side!

“Last year, you had to lay down on the wagon; now it’s much better, and it was scarier than last year, too, because they had more people coming at you,” said Rene Zapien, a resident of Sun Valley who visited the Haunted Hayride with his wife and two daughters.

Enjoy Upgraded Rides and New Games

Another new addition to the event is a game called Zombie Splat. Players can fight back against the zombies in this carnival-style shooting game. Actors play zombies that visitors can shoot with gelly balls, like paintballs but much softer. “I think this may be the only place where you get to fight back against the zombies rather than them sneaking up on you,” commented Ryan Wade as he exited Zombie Splat.

Victor Mathieu, general manager for the Haunted Hayride, has high hopes for this year’s Halloween season. “It’s going to be epic,” he told Los Angeles Daily News, “Overall, this event has grown and improved drastically. We’re extremely excited about this season.”

You can buy tickets for the Halloween event on the Haunted Hayride website. The prices of the tickets vary, starting from $29.99 for hayride tickets and going up to $109.99 for platinum tickets that give you access to all parts of the event. You can visit the Midnight Falls Town Square well by purchasing tickets at any price point.

October 12, 2023
Los Angeles Turns to AI for Early Detection and Aid for Potential Homelessness

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For Dulce Volantin, a single phone call can change lives; that call was a lifeline she didn’t see coming. Dulce and her partner, Valarie Zayas, lived close to Venice Beach in Los Angeles, a small place unlike the fancy LA homes most people think of. Their story is one of romance emerging from turbulent backgrounds. They had a touching story of finding love after facing many challenges, including dealing with gangs. Dulce had mental health problems, and Valarie was trying hard to find a job. They were apprehensive about becoming homeless.

However, a call from the Los Angeles County Department of Health Services offered a glimmer of hope. This was no ordinary check-in. Instead, Los Angeles was planning a groundbreaking strategy to tackle homelessness by forecasting it through the power of artificial intelligence (AI).

Dana Vanderford, spearheading the Homelessness Prevention unit, likens the situation to a “bucket with a hole in it.” While the existing measures help refill the bucket, the underlying problems remain unaddressed, causing it to keep draining.

The introduction of the AI program aims to seal that leak. It’s an ambitious venture. Collating data from numerous county agencies, from emergency room stats to sign-ups for food aid, the program employs machine learning to generate a list of individuals on the brink of losing their homes.

Bridging Technology and Human Touch in Homelessness Prevention

But data is just the starting point. Humanity fills in the gaps. Elizabeth Juarez, one of the 16 dedicated case managers, understands that while AI can hint at potential homelessness, it takes a human touch to convert these leads into tangible help. This task isn’t straightforward; many are skeptical or have already succumbed to despair by the time they’re reached.

When Juarez finally connects, she doesn’t just offer assistance—she paints a future where $4,000 to $6,000 will fend off impending instability. Whether paying off payday loan debts, providing e-bikes, or ensuring food is on the table, the goal is holistic well-being.

Ricky Brown’s journey is a good example. At 65, Ricky’s already unstable financial position was thrown into turmoil when he unexpectedly became the sole guardian of his three grandsons following the sudden death of his ex-wife. The burden of added responsibilities made his modest apartment in LA’s Crenshaw district feel overwhelmingly cramped. Fred Theus, a county case manager, stepped in to weave a support system for Ricky and his family, showing that the direst situations can be averted with the proper assistance. Despite the complexities and the constant race against time, Fred stands as Ricky’s beacon of hope in challenging times.

The Promise and Future of AI-Driven Homelessness Prevention

This AI-driven program, now two years into its implementation, has already helped over 560 individuals. Many have managed to retain their homes, indicating the initiative’s promise. But its real success lies not just in the present but in the longevity of its impact. Plans for a comprehensive randomized control trial Nanaimo objectively assesses the program’s efficacy by comparing participant outcomes against non-participants.

Janey Rountree of the California Policy Lab at UCLA emphasizes the need for discernment. “When millions seem vulnerable, pinpointing the 1% to 2% who might access homelessness is critical,” she explains.

By 2026, we’ll have a clearer picture of the initiative’s long-term efficacy. But even now, LA’s endeavor is setting precedents, with San Diego County gearing up for a similar venture.

Dulce and Valarie’s present circumstances vividly illustrate the transformative potential of this program. They now have a happy home filled with good memories. A special phone call started their journey to a better life. This shows how using technology and caring for people can work together. It’s not just about stopping a bad situation but creating a brighter future for everyone.

October 11, 2023
Waymo Explores the Potential of a Robotaxi Launch in Los Angeles

Image credit: Unsplash

Waymo has announced a soft launch of their robo-taxi service in Los Angeles this fall. The six-stop “tour” will allow interested Los Angeles residents to briefly use Waymo’s self-driving cars in different areas around the city.

The six stops refer to certain areas of the city where the robot taxis will be available. The robo-taxis will be available in Santa Monica and Venice Beach from October 11th through November 18th; in Century City from November 20th to December 17th; in West Hollywood from December 17th through January 7th; in Mid City from January 8th to the 23rd; Koreatown from January 24th to February 8th; and in Downtown Los Angeles from February 9th through March 3rd. Those unfamiliar with Los Angeles may be confused about why each neighborhood is designated with its dates. The districts covered in the tour add up to an area larger than the entire city of San Francisco. Waymo covered smaller city sections one at a time to ensure safety and collect data.

Los Angeles natives are encouraged to buy tickets or join the waitlist to use the robo-taxi service for free in their neighborhoods between the designated dates. Once a ticket is purchased, the customer can use the service as much or as little as they like for no additional charge.

Waymo has been mapping the city since 2019. Los Angeles is a challenging city to drive in, self-driving car or not. Some difficulties mapping the town include the multitude of freeways, narrow backroads, unprotected left turns, and the city’s infamous traffic and distracted drivers. Waymo’s vehicles have been tested many times with a safety driver sitting in the front seat to ensure the car works correctly. During the upcoming tour, there will be no safety driver present.

Los Angeles is the first city where Waymo opted to try the tour strategy before launching a complete commercial service. The company faced backlash from city officials in San Francisco due to issues with blocked intersections and obstructed emergency vehicles. Waymo hopes to make a good impression on locals and community organizers before expanding to commercial service.

Self-driving cars have made great strides over the past few years. Waymo is locked in a tight race with competitor Cruise to get autonomous vehicles on the streets. While Los Angeles is a challenging city to conquer, it also represents a thriving market of over 13 million people. Waymo previously estimated that a commercial service in Los Angeles could potentially bring in $2 billion in revenue. The city is entirely reliant on cars as transportation. The sprawling metropolis and lack of functional public transportation make Los Angeles nearly impossible to navigate without a vehicle. Uber and Lyft thrive in this environment, marking it a potentially lucrative market for Waymo and other AV companies.

A robo-taxi service would undoubtedly change the taxi landscape in Los Angeles. Waymo seeks to gain loyal customers through its tour of the city. Whether the Los Angeles communities will embrace self-driving taxis remains to be seen.

September 26, 2023