While many Californians are moving inland in search of affordable housing and more space, they may find life isn’t greener on the other side. Some California cities with the biggest recent population booms are at risk for dangerously hot days driven by climate change and sky-high electric bills, according to a CalMatter analysis. This combination of rising populations and alarming extreme heat puts more Californians at risk of illness, posing a serious challenge for unprepared local officials.
As greenhouse gasses continue to warm the planet, many individuals across the globe are experiencing higher temperatures and intense heat waves, and an international panel of climate scientists recently stated that it is “virtually certain” that “there has been increases in the intensity and duration of heatwaves and in the number of heatwave days at the global scale.”
The CalMatters analysis identified which California communities are most at risk, with the top 1% of the state’s more than 8,000 census tracts being communities that have grown by more than 500 people in recent years and are also expected to experience the most intensifying heat due to climate change.
Identified California communities by CalMatters include Lancaster and Palmdale in Los Angeles County; Apple Valley, Victorville, and Hesperia in San Bernardino County; Lake Elsinore and Murrieta in Riverside County; and the Central Valley cities of Visalia, Fresno, Clovis, and Tulare.
Risks of Relocating Inland in California
According to data from researchers at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of Colorado Boulder, and UC Berkeley, it is expected that by 2050 neighborhoods in these 11 inland cities will experience 25 or more high heat days every year. A high heat day is defined as when an area’s maximum temperature surpasses the top 2% of its historic high—essentially when temperatures skyrocket above the highest temperatures recorded there this century.
“We are seeing much more rapid warming of inland areas that were already hotter to begin with,” said UCLA climate scientist Daniel Swain.
“There’s an extreme contrast between the people who live within 5 to 10 miles of the beach and people who live as little as 20 miles inland,” he said. “It’s these inland areas where we see people who…are killed by this extreme heat or whose lives are at least made miserable.”
Despite inland California communities expected to experience higher temperatures, neighborhoods along the coast will remain much more temperate. Areas such as San Francisco, Santa Barbara, and Long Beach are not expected to experience significantly more high heat days, with San Francisco expected to average six days a year in the 2050s exceeding 87 degrees, compared to four days in the 2020s. On the other hand, Visalia in the San Joaquin Valley of California will jump from 17 days surpassing 103 degrees to 32.
Eric McGhee, a policy director who researches California demographic changes at the Public Policy Institute of California, stated that many people moving inland are low and middle-income Californians looking to expand their families, find more affordable housing, and live comfortably, making them more willing to sacrifice other privileges, like cooler weather.
California is “becoming more expensive, more exclusive in the places that are least likely to experience extreme heat,” Swain said. As a result, he said, “the people who are most at risk of extreme heat”—those with limited financial resources—“are precisely the people experiencing extreme heat.”
Impact of Extreme Heat on California’s Population
The effects of extreme heat on the body can happen quickly and can be deadly, triggering heat strokes and heart attacks, as well as exacerbating asthma, diabetes, kidney failure, and other illnesses in people of all ages.
In The Golden State, extreme heat contributed to more than 5,000 hospitalizations and almost 10,600 emergency department visits over the past decade, with the health effects falling “disproportionately on already overburdened” Black people, Latinos and Native Americans, according to a recent state report.
With hotter days forecasted, city and county officials must grapple with how to protect their residents who are already struggling to stay cool and pay their electric bills, but despite warnings, many local officials are failing to respond adequately.
Established in 2022, the Crisis and Incident Response through Community-led Engagement (CIRCLE) program has trained mental health workers to respond to nonviolent 911 calls throughout the Los Angeles area.
A Different Kind of Incident Approach
As homelessness issues expand throughout the city, the program’s 80-person staff take on 911 calls from a perspective of care and concern rather than having the city dispatch armed police officers to the scene, which may escalate the situation unnecessarily.
Calls regarding issues involving unhoused individuals, including loitering, noise disturbances, substance abuse, and indecent exposure, are all more effectively addressed by CIRCLE’s mental health staff working in 24-hour shifts. They even perform more mundane well-being checks for these individuals, demonstrating quality of life concerns and consideration.
CIRCLE’s Origin and Expansion Efforts
When the program began, it only served the Hollywood and Venice areas but moved quickly into downtown and South Los Angeles, the Northeast Valley, Lincoln Heights, and the Harbor Area. Amid the program’s success, Mayor Karen Bass announced CIRCLE’s expansion into Manchester Square, Oakwood, Mar Vista, Palms, Playa Vista, Playa Del Rey, Westchester, and Dockweiler Beach.
CIRCLE has not yet established a decompression center in West Los Angeles. Still, mental health director Latoya Stevenson states that they are essential to the services they provide.
“It’s a place for respite for people experiencing homelessness to come back for a short period of time to meet with the care coordinator, to meet with the mental health worker, get a break from being out in the elements,” Stevenson said.
The Role of Decompression Centers
Rather than a drop-off or walk-up site for immediate crisis attention, these decompression centers are available for CIRCLE staff to use during a mental health interaction. From this point, unhoused individuals and others suffering from mental health issues are encouraged to use established services, such as shelters and clinics. These decompression centers enable CIRCLE staff to meet these individuals in need where they are and help them move forward.
Why CIRCLE Is Expanding
Mayor Bass acknowledged the program’s effectiveness on Monday, saying, “If you can address a person who is having a mental health crisis early, you can prevent that person and that crisis from deteriorating to the point where you have to have police because that individual has become violent, or that individual has hurt someone.”
As much of the Los Angeles community has voiced quality-of-life concerns regarding the unhoused population, CIRCLE’s program offers a beneficial solution. Theirs is a preventative tool, responding to community concerns while addressing the crises these unhoused individuals face.
Helping Refocus Police Efforts
Over 14,000 nonviolent 911 calls were handed over to CIRCLE teams just last year, demonstrating the program’s reliability and effective response to issues involving unhoused individuals and those experiencing a mental health crisis. Their efforts have enabled armed police officers to focus on fighting crime rather than entering preventable altercations.
As Mayor Bass has apparently realized, the city of Los Angeles stands to benefit from police officers’ free allocation of resources toward more pressing matters. CIRCLE has made a lasting impact on the community and how a city can respond to various activities and crimes, making realistic distinctions between where resources need to be allocated at a given time and where one response would be more beneficial than another.
As former Mayor Eric Garcetti said when he first expanded the program in 2022, “CIRCLE is about strengthening the human bonds that are essential to public safety, and using a nonviolent response to homelessness so that we can help, not punish, our most vulnerable Angelenos.”
Michella Filipowitz has never been one to follow the conventional path, and her life is a testament to the beauty of forging your own way. As a model, art dealer, and co-chair of the DR Family Foundation, Michella’s story is an inspiring example of how embracing the unexpected can lead to profound fulfillment and lasting love. Her journey challenges the traditional ideals of what it means to build a family and find happiness, showing us that life’s greatest rewards often come from the least anticipated places.
In our society, there is a pervasive notion that happiness and fulfillment are tied to a specific sequence of events: meet the right person, fall in love, get married, have children, and live a stable life. While this path certainly works for some, it doesn’t reflect the diversity of human experience. Michella’s life is a vivid illustration of the fact that there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to love and family. Her journey is a reminder that true joy often comes from embracing the unknown and trusting in the process, even when it leads you down an unconventional road.
Michella’s story begins with a bold decision that set the course for her life. At just 15 years old, she left her home behind to pursue her dreams of becoming a model in Paris. This wasn’t just a career move; it was a leap into adulthood, where she had to navigate the complexities of life far from the comfort and familiarity of home. The early years in Paris were both challenging and transformative, shaping Michella into the resilient and determined woman she is today. It was during this time that she first encountered the harsh realities of life, including the glaring gaps in mental health support for young people dealing with trauma. These experiences planted the seeds of what would later become her passion for advocacy and support, particularly for those who are often overlooked by society.
As Michella’s modeling career progressed, so too did her understanding of the world around her. She learned the importance of mental and emotional resilience, lessons that would prove invaluable in the years to come. Michella’s time in Paris wasn’t just about building a career; it was about building character and learning how to navigate a world that isn’t always kind or forgiving. The challenges she faced during these formative years helped her develop a deep sense of empathy and a strong desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
By the time Michella was 23, her life had taken a significant turn. She became a single mother to her son, Benjamin, a role that brought immense joy but also a host of challenges. “Becoming a single mom wasn’t something I planned,” she shares. “But it’s the most rewarding role I’ve ever taken on. Benjamin gave me a sense of purpose and a strength I never knew I had.” The arrival of Benjamin marked the beginning of a new chapter in Michella’s life, one that would be defined by both love and resilience.
When Benjamin was diagnosed with autism at the age of three, it was a pivotal moment for Michella. The diagnosis brought with it both heartbreak and determination. “I noticed early on that Benjamin wasn’t developing at the same pace as other children,” she recalls. “When we received the diagnosis, it was a confirmation of my fears, but it also motivated me to learn everything I could to support him.” Michella immersed herself in researching autism, seeking out the best therapies and educational environments for Benjamin. She was determined to give him every opportunity to thrive, no matter what challenges lay ahead.
Living in Miami at the time, Michella faced significant challenges in finding the right educational environment for Benjamin. Many private schools were reluctant to accept a child with autism, fearing that his needs might disrupt the learning environment for other students. On the other hand, schools specifically designed for children with disabilities often isolated these children, limiting their opportunities to interact with their peers. Michella was determined to find a school where Benjamin could thrive, surrounded by a diverse group of children who would help him grow socially and academically.
The search for the right school was long and arduous, but Michella’s persistence paid off. She eventually found a school that not only accepted Benjamin but also provided him with the support he needed to flourish. This was a turning point for both mother and son, offering them a sense of stability and hope for the future. “Finding the right school was a huge relief,” Michella says. “It gave me peace of mind knowing that Benjamin was in a place where he could grow and develop in a supportive environment.”
As Michella began to find a rhythm in her life as a single mother, fate intervened once again. She met her fiancé, an art dealer from Sydney, and their connection was immediate. “From the moment we met, I knew there was something special between us,” Michella says. “Our first date turned into a five-hour conversation, and I realized I had found someone who understood and supported me in a way I hadn’t experienced before.” Their relationship blossomed quickly, and soon they were making plans for a future together.
Moving to Sydney to be with her fiancé was a major decision, one that came with its own set of challenges. It meant starting over in a new city, far from the support system she had built in Miami. It also meant finding the right support systems for Benjamin all over again. The transition wasn’t easy, especially when Michella realized that Australia’s systems for mental health and disability support were not as robust as those in Miami. “It was a difficult adjustment,” she admits. “But my fiancé’s unwavering support and love for Benjamin made all the difference.”
Despite the challenges, Michella and her fiancé were able to create a loving, supportive environment for their blended family. The love they shared not only strengthened their bond but also inspired them to give back to the community in a meaningful way. Together, they co-founded the DR Family Foundation, an organization dedicated to helping children and families facing challenges similar to those Michella and Benjamin had overcome.
The DR Family Foundation’s mission is to create a safe and nurturing environment for children from all walks of life—whether they come from broken homes, live with disabilities, or simply need a place where they can grow and thrive. The foundation offers financial assistance to help cover the costs of schooling for children in disadvantaged situations and provides a safe haven where they can feel supported and loved.
But the foundation’s vision doesn’t stop there. Michella and her fiancé have ambitious plans for the future, including expanding their efforts to support abused women and organizing community volunteer events. “We want to spread love and kindness wherever we can,” Michella says. “Because at the end of the day, that’s what the world needs more of.”
Michella’s life story is one of resilience, love, and a deep commitment to making a difference in the world. It’s a reminder that even when life doesn’t follow a traditional path, there is beauty and fulfillment to be found in the unexpected. “Benjamin changed my life in ways I never could have imagined,” Michella reflects. “And now, with my fiancé by my side, I’m excited to see what the future holds for our family and for the foundation.”
The foundation’s impact is already being felt, with plans to build a home for children from diverse backgrounds who need a safe space to grow and thrive. “We’re creating a place where children can feel safe, loved, and supported,” Michella explains. “It’s about giving them the tools they need to succeed, no matter what challenges they face.”
The home, set to open in Summer 2025, is just the beginning. Michella and her fiancé envision a future where the DR Family Foundation can expand its reach, helping even more children and families in need. “We’re just getting started,” she says. “There’s so much more we want to do, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes us.”
Michella’s commitment to making a difference extends beyond her work with the foundation. She is also an advocate for mental health awareness, particularly for children and families dealing with disabilities. “Mental health is just as important as physical health,” she says. “It’s something that needs to be talked about more, and we need to make sure that support is available to everyone who needs it.”
As Michella looks to the future, she is filled with hope and determination. “I’ve learned that life doesn’t always go according to plan,” she says. “But that’s okay. Sometimes, the most beautiful things come from the unexpected. I’m grateful for the journey I’ve been on, and I’m excited for what’s to come.”
To keep up with Michella’s journey and learn more about the DR Family Foundation’s projects, follow her on Instagram @princessmichella. The foundation’s new home for children is set to open in Summer 2025, with many more exciting initiatives on the horizon. Whether it’s through the foundation’s work or her advocacy for mental health, Michella Filipowitz is dedicated to making the world a better, more loving place for everyone.
Los Angeles Expands CIRCLE Program to Address Non-Violent 911 Calls
Los Angeles is broadening its approach to non-violent 911 calls involving homeless individuals by expanding the Crisis and Incident Response through the Community-led Engagement (CIRCLE) program. Mayor Karen Bass announced on Monday that CIRCLE will now serve additional areas in West Los Angeles, including Manchester Square, Oakwood, Mar Vista, Palms, Playa Vista, Playa Del Rey, Westchester, and Dockweiler Beach.
Overview and Impact of CIRCLE Program
Launched in 2022, CIRCLE dispatches mental health professionals and individuals with lived experience of homelessness instead of armed police officers to handle specific non-violent situations. The program began in Hollywood and Venice before extending to downtown Los Angeles, Lincoln Heights, South Los Angeles, the Northeast Valley, and the Harbor Area.
CIRCLE’s team of 80 staff members operates on 24-hour shifts, responding to diverted 911 calls related to unhoused individuals. These calls typically involve issues such as loitering, well-being checks, noise disturbances, substance abuse problems, and indecent exposure.
In the past year alone, CIRCLE teams have been dispatched to over 14,000 calls, demonstrating the high demand for their specialized services. The teams have also helped over 1,600 people acquire essential documents like social security cards and IDs, connected more than 1,000 individuals with mental and behavioral health services, and successfully intervened in multiple opioid overdose situations.
“We are responding to the mental health crisis with solutions that are long-term and sustainable. At the same time, we are freeing up our LAPD officers to fight crime. Our work does not stop here. We will continue working on this important issue and continue to make our city safer,” Mayor Bass said during the news conference.
Mayor Bass emphasized the program’s role as a preventative measure, addressing community concerns about quality of life issues related to the unhoused population. “If you can address a person who is having a mental health crisis early, you can prevent that person and that crisis from deteriorating to the point where you have to have police because that individual has become violent, or that individual has hurt someone,” Bass stated.
The program’s impact is significant, with CIRCLE teams responding to over 14,000 calls in the past year. This high volume of responses underscores the demand for specialized services in addressing non-violent issues involving the homeless population.
CIRCLE’s mental health director, Latoya Stevenson, highlighted the importance of decompression centers in the program’s operations. These centers provide temporary respite for individuals experiencing homelessness, offering a break from the elements and an opportunity to meet with care coordinators and mental health workers.
Stevenson clarified that these centers are not open for public drop-offs or walk-ins. Instead, they are accessed exclusively through interactions with CIRCLE program staff. “It’s a place for respite for people experiencing homelessness to come back for a short period of time to meet with the care coordinator, to meet with the mental health worker, get a break from being out in the elements,” Stevenson explained.
Despite the program’s expansion, challenges remain. Stevenson noted that a decompression center has yet to be established in the newly served West Los Angeles area, potentially limiting the program’s effectiveness in these communities.
The CIRCLE program represents a shift in how the city addresses non-violent issues involving the homeless population. By utilizing mental health professionals and those with firsthand experience of homelessness, the program aims to provide more appropriate and effective assistance.
Stevenson emphasized the program’s approach: “When it comes to the individuals we work with, who are experiencing homelessness, it’s meeting them where they are, but also encouraging the utilization of those existing services.”
With this latest expansion, CIRCLE aims to provide targeted assistance to more areas of the city, potentially improving outcomes for individuals experiencing homelessness and mental health crises.
Over a year after the “Basic Income Guaranteed: Los Angeles Economic Assistance Pilot program” concluded, the results are finally in. During BIG:LEAP’s Run, 3,202 low-income persons received $1,000 a month with no strings attached over the course of a year, totaling $12,000, to use however they saw fit.
The Benefits Are Clear
The data speaks for itself. Researchers and council members observed increased financial well-being among participants, food security rose, parents spent more time with children, levels of abuse lowered, and an overall sense of community was established. With these promising results, some officials have expressed interest in expanding the program.
Participants were almost all in deep poverty, struggling to meet their basic needs and pay the bills. The average income for the households in the program was about $14,200, the average applicant was 37 years old, most households had children, and 80% of applicants were women.
How Participants Used This Resource
Researchers at UCLA, USC, and the Center for Guaranteed Income Research found several areas in which the participants used their newfound income to improve their lives.
Most people in the program prioritized savings, but they also expressed comfort in being able to pay off emergency expenses, which would have been a devastating hit without this added resource. Only 10% of participants were confident that they could cover an emergency expense before joining the program, growing to 15% when the program ended.
Escaping Abuse
A majority of participants reported psychological abuse from partners before joining the program, while 30% reported physical abuse. Stalking, aggression, and violence were able to be avoided with a boost in income, providing previously inaccessible avenues for escaping unsafe relationships they may have otherwise been reliant upon, and they were able to begin healing.
Becoming Better Parents
People were becoming better parents in the program. They could afford to take a few days off to be with their children and had extra spending money to celebrate birthdays. Parents were more willing to put their kids into enrichment programs, extracurriculars, and sports programs which would have otherwise been prohibitively expensive. This small investment helps parents provide better lives for their children, and they seem eager to do so.
Improving Health
Some participants reported taking walks and being able to afford healthier food options for their children. Many children in low-income families have health issues that require better quality food which their families may not be able to afford in their position. This program helped them improve their children’s lives.
Housing Costs and Food Security
Half of the participants spent more than 70% on housing expenses, but the added funding helped them to more easily meet payments and avoid homelessness, something which Los Angeles has been struggling to find a real answer to. By alleviating these payments, those who received guaranteed income had an easier time finding food, while 44% of low-income persons in LA County struggled to put dinner on the table.
Next Steps
Councilmember Curren Price, who spearheaded the effort, believes they cannot stop now. The program has momentum, and the benefits are having an impact. If approved, his motion to launch a $4-5 million guaranteed basic income program would target those experiencing intimate partner violence, domestic violence, and young people aging out of foster care. Price himself will provide $1 million of his own district’s discretionary funds to the effort to help those experiencing homelessness.
“We will move forward, we will guarantee income,” Price said. “That’s been proven to break cycles of poverty and housing insecurity, and these are issues that have plagued our region for decades, and now we have research to show that it can be alleviated.”
The early years of a child’s life are important stepping stones for future success. Whether they are taking their first steps, smiling for the first time, or even waving goodbye and learning to walk, parents want the best for their children, especially when it comes to their development and education. Supplementing their early learning, especially through play, is recommended in the CDC’s Positive Parenting Tips. This not only helps your baby develop crucial thinking skills but also keeps them from getting bored.
Types of Learning Toys
According to Haba USA, five primary types of toys can help preschoolers with their general development. Included among them are:
Blocks and nesting sets: help aid in the development of stacking and counting.
Threading and mazes: allow children to learn pincer grip and fine motor skills through the use of navigating small objects, aiding in hand-eye coordination.
Puzzles and arranging games: aid in the development of spatial reasoning and problem-solving.
Dolls and puppets: helpa child develop imagination and communication, and learn empathic skills.
As well as general games, which can involve anything from learning to take turns and follow rules to learning about teamwork and collaboration.
Learning how the world works, and how we as individuals operate within it based on play and behavior, is not only crucial but necessary for overall development. Getting a head start on your child’s early learning will ensure that they succeed in their infancy as well as later on in their life.
What the Research Says
Researchers have determined that Montessori-style education, based on the educational techniques developed by Dr. Maria Montessori, may be superior to traditional education methods. However, this is not always available to children.
Despite this, the American Montessori Society believes that children succeed best when they choose work that challenges and captures their attention. This leads to not only heightened engagement but sustained attention, intrinsic motivation, and a sense of responsibility to oneself and others.
Thankfully, those parents who are looking to incorporate Montessori-style materials into their child’s education can look no further than PlanToys.
What are PlanToys?
PlanToys believes that child development begins the moment your baby is born. Whether it be from learning about the world through visuals, developing creative and social skills, learning about language, and even knowledge of topics such as cause and effect, the people at PlanToys work with child development experts to design toys that engage your child and help them learn in the process.
“The simplicity of the teaching of it, the child-led products, learning and play, and working with Montessori teachers and child development experts, are all aspects that [we] look at when developing [our] toys,” the creators at PlanToys write.
Their toy picks for Montessori-inspired learning and fun at home include the use of:
Gears and Puzzles: captivates children with hands-on adventures in engineering and creativity with 22 interchangeable gears and pieces.
50 Unit Blocks set: a versatile construction toy that unleashes your child’s inner architect by allowing them to build with 50 wooden blocks in 12 different shapes.
Ramp Racer: entertains and builds hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills while teaching your child about basic physics
Wave Stacker: encourages endless play through stacking, nestling, balancing, linking, and arranging.
PlanToys’ products are not just fun for your child, but they are also created with sustainable practices and are non-toxic for your child’s safety and your peace of mind. Their world-class recognition includes everything from the Pal Award to the Red Dot Design Award, to the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold and Platinum Awards.
If you’re looking to help aid your child’s early development, consider adding toys to their routine. By incorporating thoughtfully designed toys into your child’s playtime, you can foster an environment of curiosity, creativity, and growth, setting the stage for lifelong learning and success.
Summer is calling, and it’s time to dress your nails in the hottest shades of the season. Imagine yourself lounging poolside, sipping on a cool drink, with your nails gleaming in the sun. Well, Londontown promises that when it comes to nail polish, yours won’t only look fabulous, but will last a long time too. With their carefully curated collection of lakur nail colors, you’ll find the perfect shade to complement your summer vibe. We do love ourselves a color guide, so that’s exactly what we’re going to give you!
Inspired by the Golden State, this vibrant coral shade screams summer. Perfect for a beach day or a summer bash, Paloma is for those who want their nails to steal the spotlight. This bold hue is eye-catching and kind, crafted with Londontown’s signature 21+ Free Formula—free from formaldehyde, toluene, phthalates (including DBP), formaldehyde resin, camphor, xylene, ethyl tosylamide, TPHP, or bisphenol A.
Transport yourself to the shores with Reverse the Charges, a stunning aqua blue that captures the essence of clear summer skies and tranquil waters. (We also like to call this pretty shade the Tiffany Blue 2.0!) This shade is totally perfect for those who love a pop of color that still feels fresh and airy.
For those who prefer a more subdued look, Waterloo Sunset offers a beautiful blend of peach and pink tones, kind of like the sky at dusk. This shade is ideal for daily wear, adding a gentle, romantic flair to your summer look. It’s versatile, pairing well with anything from casual denim to breezy summer dresses. The formula blends high-impact color with Londontown’s unique kur® care, merging clean ingredients with professional-grade tech for a mindful, effective approach.
A chic nude with a touch of shimmer, Pearl is the go-to shade for effortless elegance. This polish is perfect for a polished, put-together look that stays light and summery. It’s ideal for those seeking a classic manicure with a modern twist. The luxurious feel and texture of this shade will make you feel like a star every time you catch a glimpse of your nails.
Bright, playful, and utterly captivating, Summer Fling is a vibrant fuchsia that demands attention. This shade is for the trendsetters, the ones who love to experiment with bold, fun colors. It’s perfect for festivals, parties, or simply when you want to add a splash of excitement to your day. The rich, creamy formula ensures a smooth application and a long-lasting finish.
A super pretty mix of pastel purple and glitter, Opal is the shade for those who love to stand out. It’s playful, fun, and just a little bit magical. This polish is perfect for summer nights out, where you want your nails to sparkle under the moonlight. The innovative formula, infused with Londontown’s Florium Complex, ensures that your nails not only look fabulous but are also nourished and protected.
The Londontown Promise
Londontown believes in beauty without compromise. Their lakur nail colors give you more than just pretty shades, but also a boost in your nail health. The experience you get is luxurious nail polishes that deliver gel-like wear and shine with effortless application.
Formulated to provide nails with the perfect balance of strength and moisturization, lakurs are a breakthrough combination of high-impact color and our proprietary kur® care—the result of a mindful approach that fuses the best of clean ingredients and effective, professional-level technology. Free of harmful toxins and full of botanicals, our polishes are designed to provide exceptional performance, luxurious feel, and unparalleled results.
As a women-owned, family-run business, Londontown strives to create products that highlight the best in natural, good-for-you ingredients. So this summer, let your nails shine with the best shades from Londontown. Whether you’re drawn to bold and bright colors or prefer soft and subtle tones, Londontown’s got you covered.
While the Los Angeles Clippers have had to share space with the LA Lakers since the 1999-2000 NBA season, the crosstown rivals are heading to a home of their own this coming August, just in time for the 2024-2025 basketball season. The Los Angeles Clippers are moving from the Crypto.com Arena to the Intuit Dome, and with the move comes a whole new, tasty menu for fans to enjoy.
Located just outside of South LA, Intuit Dome will have space for 18,000 people, with its grand opening featuring a performance by Bruno Mars on August 15th. With the opening comes a new menu, which was unveiled last week and created through a partnership with Chicago-based restaurant group, Levy. Void of fast food chains and big-brand labels, the concessions menu has been specially whipped up for fans.
Known as “The Dome Dozen,” the arena’s menu is a collection of snacks and dishes that will be served throughout all 20 concession stands. Also known as “food markets,” concession stands will be located “just steps away from every seat in the house,” and feature self-checkout scanners to support customers on their mission to grab food and go, according to a statement from Intuit Dome. Further explaining the concession process, the venue’s statement also said that “the entire journey was designed to take 123 seconds or less to get back to your seat.”
Included in “The Dome Dozen” are traditional concession snacks like nachos, hot dogs, churros, popcorn, soft pretzels, and ice cream. But Intuit Dome and Levy are bringing innovation to the menu with a handful of specialty items not typically found at a snack stand. Fans can head to concessions for items like a buffalo cauliflower wrap and a “sushi dog,” which has been described on the venue’s website as “like a sushi burrito in the size and portability of a hot dog.” The sushi dog will be available in spicy tuna and California roll flavors.
According to the venue, other Dome Dozen dishes include hand-rolled maki, nigiri, and bento boxes made by an in-house sushi chef each game, artisanal sandwiches, market salads with favorites like Caesar and cobb, and a curated snack collection featuring “crispy, salty and sweet” offerings.
Over half of Intuit Dome’s concession stands will also feature signature dishes, with some honoring Angeleno favorites. The signature dishes will include:
Four-Edge Pan Pizza: Fans can delight in this square-cut pizza that comes in pepperoni, cheese, and a rotating selection of toppings that is baked inside custom pans.
Double-Cheeseburger: A twist on a classic. This burger is a blend of brisket, short rib, and chuck, promising tender, juicy perfection topped with pickles, American cheese, and Clippers’s secret sauce.
LA Street Dog: Grab a Niman Ranch all-beef hot dog with garlic mayo on your way back to your seat. They come on a split-top Bolillo bun – bacon-wrapped with ketchup, mustard, and seasoned peppers and onions.
K-Town BBQ Chicken and Waffle Fries: You may have trouble focusing with these chicken thighs tossed in a sweet, smoky Korean BBQ sauce from Echo Park-based Korean restaurant Seoul Sausage.
Empanadas: Warm, flaky pastries in rotating flavors made by LA Chain Continental Gourmet Market. Does more need to be said?
Season tickets are on sale, available here for fans ready for basketball season and good food.
Los Angeles was recently invigorated with the joy, connection, and empowerment that “EMBODY: Empowering Mental Health through Community Wellness and Creativity” brought to the community. Over 700 community members attended this extraordinary day of holistic wellness and artistic expression, which took place on Saturday, May 18, at Hope on Union. The event was designed to be a beacon of healing, and to celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month through the support of CalMHSA and the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health.
The event, which was MC’d by TEDx global public speaker and poet Sean Hill, delivered a plethora of activities that were aimed at promoting the wellness of both the body and soul. Those in attendance took part in spiritual yoga and tai chi sessions, a public photo booth, dance and collaboration in playshops, created an art mural, and engaged in thought-provoking discussions on mental well-being and financial wellness. Music from local DJ Tyrone Ward and songs from the all-female sextet group Mariachi Lindas Mexicanas added to the atmosphere.
During the event, the community received professional plant-based offerings that were provided by Chef Tony of Sunny Express Gourmet Fast Food, Chef Megan Tucker of Mort and Betty’s, Vegan Liberian cuisine by Mamie Peppa, and Chef Supreme of Harvest Academy, who represented Big Mountain Foods.
Beverages were also offered by Hannah Said of Saffron Cowboy, as well as by Rich Bertrand of Nija Wellness. Both the food and drink added to a celebration of cultures.
With help from the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health’s Take Action LA Initiative, EMBODY will not just be a one-time event, but a part of a movement dedicated to mental health awareness and support for LA County residents. The initiative was made in collaboration with Vegans of Los Angeles, and continues to make an impact on the community.
Gwenna Hunter, the founder of Vegans of Los Angeles and even collaborated, stated that she was “so pleased that we were able to provide this community with a day of absolute ease, celebration of wellness, live music, education, free quality merchandise, a free abundant produce market, and delicious plant-based hot foods. To see all the smiling faces, the children laughing and playing, moms sitting down to a nourishing meal and families spending time together brought so much joy to our hearts.”
L’lia ‘Tizzle’ Thomas, who co-created EMBODY and is the founder of Soul SistarMystique Aromachaura, also stated, “This was a beautifully diverse event that called for us to nurture our mind, body, and spirit. It was a profoundly memorable and life-changing day that was a true embodiment of love, art, and bliss.”
DeAnna Carpenter, the founder of She Who Builds LLC and an EMBODY Co-Creator, added: “I’m grateful we were entrusted with this opportunity to infuse the community with more beauty, joy, laughter, lightness, accessibility, and a variety of resources that we hope will sustain and inspire them in their daily lives and in their wellness and wellbeing journeys.”
EMBODY was created to untangle the stigma surrounding mental health, as well as to provide a welcoming space where prevention, education, and encouragement could flourish.
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Two nonprofits are teaming up for a two-day event dedicated to mental well-being, self-care, creativity, and fun. WisdoMania Foundation and Tangible Movement have planned this new event, WisdoMania Fest, to take place on the evenings of May 17 and May 19, with two very different nights in two different locations. Headlined by queer artist/songwriter X. ARI as well as Torri Shack, an advocate for mental health, suicide prevention, and trans issues, the two evenings of WisdoMania Fest are intended to lead attendees toward a sense of constructive peace and transformational self-awareness.
“WisdoMania Fest aspires to become the Coachella of Wellness,” says X. ARI, “Where thousands of people can unite to heal and celebrate the arts, the LGBT+ community and allies, and heal collectively.” Potential attendees should know what to expect from Coachella-like events in California.
May 17: Music and Movement in the Park
The first night of WisdoMania Fest is May 17, beginning at 5 pm in the Crystal Springs Picnic Area Pad A, B, C at Griffith Park. It starts with The Liber8Xperience, which invites attendees to bring a yoga mat and blanket to participate in “flow yoga, ecstatic dance, and sound bath.” The physical component of this evening is, to organizer Torri Shack, reflective of his own strategy for handling life’s challenges. For him, the path to overcoming problems like mental illness, addiction, and identity issues has “been deeply holistic,” focusing as much on physical activity as mental health management techniques and gratitude.
The evening’s next event, a performance by pop-punk/hip-hop artist Chloe Star, begins the event’s emphasis on music. This mainly comes from X. ARI’s WisdoMania Foundation, which emphasizes creativity as a tool for transforming pain into power.
May 19: Creativity, Performance, and Power at the Club
The second night of WisdoMania Fest takes on a different tone, starting at 4:30 pm on May 19 at the Catch One nightclub on Pico Boulevard. This evening begins with a “Songwriting for Wellness” workshop. “We would like to create a full-length album with the songs we write at our Songwriting for Wellness workshop,” says X. ARI. “At WisdoMania Fest we write a song that will be recorded and released, and everyone in the room is credited as a songwriter. This means when we release the songs on DSPs—digital streaming platforms like Spotify—the attendees can all see their names under song credits!”
The rest of the night at Catch One will be spent on a 45-minute mental health panel and performances by queer comics, artists, and allies Mav Viola and Bri Giger, and finally, musical performances by Noah Davis, Diarra Sylla, DJ Naté, and X. ARI herself.
Free Attendance and Liberating Aspirations
WisdoMania Fest is a free event for those looking for self-validation and liberation and who have a passion for mental health and the arts. Tangible Movement is a nonprofit focused on mental health and LGBTQIA2S+ issues. The WisdoMania Foundation is dedicated to using the arts to turn “pain into power” and bring mental health awareness to communities throughout Los Angeles. WisdoMania Fest is a capstone event for these two nonprofits to bring together their resources and goals to create a transformational experience for LA communities. Those interested in attending can register for WisdoMania for free.
Nyla Evans, a student who attends Irving Magnet School in the Glassell Park area, was preparing for her first 26.2-mile L.A. Marathon at just thirteen this last week.
Evans—who started running during the pandemic to help manage her anxiety—is still new to the activity, which she began when schools resorted to using online education to help minimize risk for students.
The thirteen-year-old stated that running is a stress reliever and that she made new friends while doing it. Some of these friends joined Evans during the L.A. Marathon, and they all participated in an organization called Students Run L.A., which began in 1986 when a schoolteacher challenged his students at a continuation school in Boyle Heights to help him train for a marathon.
Evans credited her coaches and friends for helping to keep her motivated while she worked on improving her skills and stamina. She claimed she “couldn’t have done it” without her team.
Evans’ mother, Johanna Voutounou, stated that her daughter started to walk at just seven months and has noted significant, positive changes that running has made in her daughter’s overall mental health. “It was a struggle,” she said.
Thankfully, Nyla Evans found friends and “came alive” because of their companionship.
The thirteen-year-old runner hopes she can inspire others to take up the activity as a way to deal with their anxieties and other mental health issues. She also had personal goals for finishing her first marathon, which she said she wanted to complete in about five-and-a-half to six hours. As it was her first run, she wanted to “take in the whole city.”
Regardless of whatever time she made in the marathon, her mom is overjoyed with the discipline Nyla has shown over the past several years. William, Nyla’s father, says that the dedication she’s shown is “remarkable and that he is “just so proud.”
Students Run L.A., the program that has helped encourage Nyla and her friends to run in the marathon, serves more than 3,200 underserved middle and high school students at 185 public schools and community programs across the Greater Los Angeles area. The program, which inspires children to train alongside their adult mentors, helps organize, transport, and pay for participants to enter six community races of longer distances, building up from a 5K to a 30K race.
Each Spring, SRLA makes a limited number of $500 scholarships payable directly to a school of enrollment for post-secondary education, two or four-year colleges, trade schools, or exemplary art programs. In 2019, SRLA partnered with American Honda to introduce the Honda Power of Dreams Scholarship Program. Receipts of this scholarship receive a $1000 payable over two years for their education and commit to participating in SRLA events to help mentor the next generation of student runners.
For children like Nyla Evans, running and sports have always been ways to reduce stress while maintaining an active lifestyle. Combined with a partnership with the Students Run L.A. program, students can make great strides in their personal and athletic lives while helping prepare themselves for the future.
The Glendale Fire Department and Verdugo Fire Communications honored Cooper, a Goldendoodle puppy, for completing his first year on the job last Monday, March 4. Cooper is the first ever certified wellness canine to reach the one-year milestone.
Cooper has been supporting the fire department’s health and wellness program for the past twelve months, working with employees who have experienced trauma during critical incidents. Dogs have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety while improving morale and motivation in trauma patients. The UCLA Health Department reported elevated mood, lower anxiety, mental stimulation, and lower blood pressure as some of the benefits of spending time with a therapy dog.
Korin Peltier, a dispatcher at Glendale Fire Department Headquarters and Cooper’s handler, told Los Angeles Daily News that the fire department chose a Goldendoodle, “because they are bred for this type of work.” Goldendoodles are also allergy-friendly, which allows Cooper to help as many people as possible. Peltier took Cooper to Fire Station 22 in Glendale on Monday to celebrate his achievement. This weekend, the Glendale Fire Foundation is holding its annual Poker Classic fundraiser to benefit the Wellness K9 program.
“Cooper is here to help reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety and to help lower blood pressure and your heart rate,” said department officials. “When (Glendale Fire Department) members see Cooper, their faces light up. He brings joy to everyone he meets and boosts morale.”
Cooper, who will be two years old in May, holds three American Kennel Club certifications and a Therapy Dog certification. Peltier is also trained in peer support and critical incident stress and is certified in psychological first aid and pet first aid.
Heartland Fire and Rescue Department in El Cajon, California was the first fire department in the state to launch a canine therapy program. It launched as a pilot program in 2019 after disturbing statistics about firefighter suicides were released by FEMA. In partnership with K-9 Caring Angeles, an organization based in Virginia, the department acquired Yara, a black labrador retriever, who lives at the fire station. She completed her one-year probation period, marking the program as a success, and was an inspiration for cities like Glendale.
Other fire departments across California have followed suit. The Los Angeles Fire Department also has a thriving Canine Therapy program. According to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, first responders experience high rates of post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety from witnessing tragic incidents. To combat these alarming trends, the LAFD Canine Therapy Program was launched in December 2020. Willow, the department’s current therapy dog, assists all 3,500 members of the department, and the LAFD Foundation is attempting to secure funding for a second therapy dog. Like Cooper, Willow has undergone special training and is dispatched to different fire departments throughout the city with her handler, Chief Takeshita.
Orange County runs a similar program with a three-year-old yellow lab named Pax. Claremont’s fire department therapy dog, Jackson, went viral on TikTok thanks to clips filmed by the fire chief’s daughter. Firefighters and first responders across the state are being comforted by these adorable helpers. Next time a firefighter saves the day, do not forget to thank their dog too.
