by Contributor
Funny the things that matter. There have been documentaries made about nightclubs, dancehalls, theaters and landmarks. The Cinerama Dome is one such location that has figured a lot in my life. I recall going there in the early 60s to see some silly film called “It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World.” Through the years I often spend time there. The screen was huge and the sound exquisite.
The Cinerama Dome in Hollywood, a beloved landmark and one of the last remaining mid-century modern theaters of its kind, closed in 2020 during the pandemic when ArcLight Cinemas and Pacific Theatres (its operators) announced they were shutting down permanently due to financial losses. This sparked a wave of public outcry and nostalgia, as the Dome was iconic not just architecturally but culturally—premiering films like 2001: A Space Odyssey and frequently used for high-profile Hollywood premieres.
Here’s the latest on it:
Good news: It’s coming back.
The Cinerama Dome is scheduled to reopen in 2025, rebranded as Cinerama Hollywood. It’s being renovated and reimagined by Decurion Corporation (Pacific Theatres’ parent company), and it will include:
-
The historic dome restored and preserved.
-
Two new bars: one called “Hollywood on Hollywood” (a cocktail bar) and another in a basement speakeasy format.
-
A restaurant and revamped screening spaces.
It’s not expected to be a traditional multiplex anymore but rather a more curated, upscale movie-and-dining experience, blending retro charm with modern luxury.
On that note, come this Saturday, there will be a public effort to move the opening along with a “pop-up” event and you ar invited.
For details please RSVP here: https://partiful.com/e/5b9AFbiNpclj64NVnAPd
by Contributor
The Oscars and the Tonys are two of the most prestigious award ceremonies in the entertainment industry, each celebrating excellence in their respective fields—film and theater. While both events share an air of glitz and glamour, they have distinct differences in location, audience, style, and even cultural undertones that set them apart.
Location & Industry Focus The Academy Awards, commonly known as the Oscars, take place in Hollywood, California, the heart of the film industry. Held at the Dolby Theatre (formerly the Kodak Theatre), the Oscars honor outstanding achievements in cinema, bringing together Hollywood’s elite, from A-list actors to visionary directors.
The Tony Awards, on the other hand, are the premier celebration of Broadway theater and take place in New York City, often at venues like Radio City Music Hall or the Beacon Theatre. Broadway represents the pinnacle of live theatrical performance, and the Tonys recognize the best in plays, musicals, and performances from the past theater season.
Audience & Cultural Differences The Oscars are a global event, watched by millions, with Hollywood’s biggest stars walking the red carpet. Because of its focus on film, it has a more mainstream and commercially driven appeal, attracting everyone from cinephiles to casual moviegoers. The Oscars tend to be more straight-laced, adhering to traditional Hollywood glamour and a broader audience appeal.
The Tonys, in contrast, are often considered a more niche celebration, appealing strongly to theater aficionados and those deeply invested in the performing arts. The Broadway community is known for its strong LGBTQ+ presence, and the Tonys reflect this with a more openly vibrant, inclusive, and sometimes campier atmosphere. It is not unusual to see men call out their husbands and give them a kiss, while the Oscars rarely have men kissing or even being mentioned. While both ceremonies celebrate artistic excellence, the Tonys are widely regarded as the “gayer” of the two, with Broadway being a long-standing safe haven for queer artists and audiences alike.
The Oscars are usually 3.5 to 4 hours long and because of the global nature of films, they have a much larger audience: 15 to 25 million viewer while the Tonys draw around 4 to 6 million viewers.
Fashion & Style of Dress When it comes to fashion, the Oscars are the epitome of high-end designer elegance. The red carpet is a showcase of couture gowns, meticulously styled tuxedos, and bold fashion statements meant to make headlines. Hollywood royalty aims for timeless sophistication, often opting for classic silhouettes and luxurious fabrics. And let’s be blunt, there is a lot more near-nude outfits.
The Tonys, while still glamorous, embrace a more playful and theatrical approach to fashion. Attendees often take more risks with their outfits, reflecting the creativity and flair of the Broadway stage. You’ll see more daring color choices, sequins, and even whimsical nods to stage productions. While tuxedos and gowns are still the standard, there’s an unmistakable theatricality to the Tonys’ fashion choices that set them apart from the Oscars’ polished perfection.
Atmosphere & Entertainment One of the biggest differences between the two ceremonies is the entertainment itself. The Oscars feature film clips and the occasional musical performance, usually from Best Original Song nominees, but the focus remains on awarding cinematic excellence.
The Tonys, however, are a full-blown theatrical spectacle. The ceremony is packed with show-stopping performances from nominated musicals, giving audiences a taste of the best Broadway has to offer. The energy is electric, and the show feels more like an extended theatrical production rather than a straightforward awards ceremony.
by Contributor
Los Angeles has emerged as a global epicenter of art & culture, with a distinct, interwoven multi-cultural influence unique to the city. Diversity is our strength and art is most impactful when it includes or transcends all borders. As LA rises as the world-class destination for art, the LA Art Show continues to lead the way with innovative programming and one-of-a-kind experiences for an expanding collecting audience. LA Art Show is the unparalleled international art experience with over 120 galleries, museums, and non-profit arts organizations from around the world exhibiting painting, sculpture, works on paper, installation, photography, design, video and performance. All works presented by galleries are available for your purchasing pleasure.
More than 180,000 square feet of exhibition space is committed to today’s prominent galleries. These domestic and international galleries, beyond their booths, curate special exhibits that are at the forefront of the burgeoning contemporary art movement. The fair offers an extraordinary array of works and experiences in specialized sections.
MODERN + CONTEMPORARY
The largest section of programming at the LA Art Show, Modern + Contemporary exhibits the vast spectrum of contemporary painting, illustration, sculpture and more from galleries in Los Angeles, the Pacific Rim, and countries all around the world.
DIVERSEartLA
Capitalizing on the city’s position on the Pacific Rim, DIVERSEartLA is a special programming section devoted to nurturing the creative energy of international collectors, artists, curators, museums and non-profits by connecting them directly with audiences in Los Angeles. The LA Art Show donates 50,000 square feet of exhibition space to participating organizations each year as our civic engagement, and the featured work is not for sale. Overall curation by Marisa Caichiolo with individual curators from institutions around the world.
FEATURED EXHIBITIONS
Expanding beyond the confines of booth spaces, Featured Exhibitions create immersive experiences to engage audiences through thought-provoking artworks, performances and other exhibitions offered by participating galleries, highlighting works that will be talked about for years to come.
WORLD-CLASS VENUE
The LA Convention Center, home to the LA Art Show is strategically situated at the city’s dynamic epicenter with convenient access to the world-renowned LA LIVE!, home to the Grammy and Emmy Awards, The Grammy Museum, and an impressive entertainment complex that includes the Microsoft Theatre, the Crypto.comArena, and The Ritz Carlton Hotel and Residences. Patrons of the arts gladly drive to Downtown L.A. for the best in classical music (Disney Hall), theater (Mark Taper and Ahmanson), and contemporary art (MOCA, The Broad Museum, CAAM).
DTLA offers 8.6-square-miles of neighborhood with a bustling high-rise Financial District; an Arts District loaded with galleries; a Fashion District; a Civic Center and vibrant ethnic enclaves from Chinatown and Koreatown to Little Tokyo and Mexican Town.
As Southern California’s most technologically advanced green venue, the LA Convention Center strives to be eco-friendly and sustainable at the LEED GOLD O&M level, utilizing EPA and Green certified approved cleaning supplies to limit harmful chemicals and maintain cleanliness. In addition, LACC has established objectives and program planning through the ASM Global VenueShield Program for best-in-class levels of cleanliness and safety. Our home venue, featuring soaring ceilings and ample space, including one of the largest dedicated parking structures in the entire city with over 15,000 spaces in the immediate vicinity, is the only LA venue that can accommodate a show the magnitude of the LA Art Show!
OPENING NIGHT PREMIERE
Wednesday, February 19, 2025 6pm – 10pm
Opening Night Ticket, $250
VIP Red Card, By Invitation Only
SHOW HOURS/TICKETS
General Admission, One Day Ticket $35
Thursday, February 20, 2025
12pm – 8pm
Friday, February 21, 2025
12pm – 8pm
Saturday, February 22, 2025
11am – 8pm (Early entry, VIP Red Card and Opening Night Ticket)
12pm – 8pm (General Admission)
Sunday, February 23, 2025
11am – 6pm (Early entry, VIP Red Card and Opening Night Ticket)
12pm – 6pm (General Admission)
Purchase tickets here
by Contributor
Southern California has long been synonymous with sweeping landscapes, golden beaches, and a Mediterranean climate, but it is also a region profoundly shaped by fire. For decades, wildfires have scorched its hillsides, valleys, and forests, leaving a legacy of destruction and resilience. These blazes are not merely environmental events; they are emblematic of the challenges posed by urban expansion, climate change, and the delicate balance of Southern California’s ecosystems.
The Impact of Fires in Southern California
Southern California’s wildfires are notorious for their speed, intensity, and unpredictability. Fueled by the region’s dry conditions, high temperatures, and strong Santa Ana winds, fires can spread rapidly, consuming thousands of acres in a matter of hours. Entire communities have been displaced, homes reduced to ash, and lives tragically lost. The economic toll is staggering, with billions of dollars spent annually on firefighting, recovery, and rebuilding efforts.
Beyond the immediate destruction, the fires have long-term effects on air quality, soil erosion, and water resources. Smoke from these blazes blankets the skies, creating hazardous conditions for residents and exacerbating respiratory issues. Meanwhile, wildlife habitats are decimated, and post-fire erosion often leads to mudslides in the rainy season, compounding the devastation.
A Historical Perspective
Fires are a natural part of Southern California’s ecology. For thousands of years, indigenous peoples, including the Tongva and Chumash tribes, used controlled burns to manage vegetation and promote biodiversity. However, the dynamics of fire in the region changed with European settlement and urban development.
The 20th and 21st centuries have seen some of the most catastrophic fires in Southern California’s history. The 2003 Cedar Fire in San Diego County, the 2007 Witch Fire, and the more recent Camp Fire of 2018 (though further north) illustrate the increasing scale and severity of these blazes. The 2017 Thomas Fire, one of the largest in California’s history, burned over 280,000 acres, destroying homes, displacing families, and leaving scars that lingered for years.
Climate Change and Urban Encroachment
Southern California’s fire crisis has been exacerbated by two critical factors: climate change and urban sprawl. Prolonged droughts and rising temperatures have created a tinderbox of dry vegetation, making the region more vulnerable to fires than ever before. At the same time, development has pushed housing into fire-prone areas, putting more lives and property at risk.
Resilience and Renewal
Despite the devastation, Southern California’s communities have demonstrated remarkable resilience. Innovations in fire science, stricter building codes, and community-driven fire prevention initiatives have emerged as powerful tools in mitigating the impact of wildfires. Agencies like Cal Fire and local fire departments continually refine strategies to combat these disasters, while public awareness campaigns emphasize preparedness and evacuation planning.
On the ecological front, nature shows its capacity for renewal. Native species like chaparral and certain pine trees are adapted to fire, using it as a mechanism to regenerate. However, invasive species and increasing fire frequency threaten this balance, underscoring the need for sustainable land management.
In response to the recent wildfires in Southern California, numerous organizations and businesses are offering free services to support affected individuals. Here are some available resources:
Transportation:
- Uber: Provides a $40 credit for rides to evacuation sites using the code WILDFIRE25.
- Lyft: Offers two rides up to $25 each for evacuees; use the code CAFIRERELIEF25.
Housing and Shelter:
- Airbnb: In partnership with 211 LA, offers free temporary housing for displaced residents.
- Queen Mary Hotel, Long Beach: Rooms for evacuees at $189 per night, including breakfast; pet fees waived.
- Big Bear: Discounted lodging and dining vouchers for evacuees.
Food Assistance:
- Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Coordinates with over 600 partner agencies to provide food assistance.
- Local Restaurants: Several establishments offer free meals to evacuees and first responders.
Utilities:
- AT&T: Offers unlimited data, talk, and text in wildfire-affected areas through February 6.
- Verizon: Waives call, text, and data charges for customers in heavily impacted areas; provides free Wi-Fi and charging stations at select shelters.
Health and Wellness:
- Planet Fitness: Grants evacuees and first responders free access to facilities, including showers and Wi-Fi, until January 15.
- Crunch Gym: Opens 20 locations for evacuees and first responders to use showers, recharge devices, or rest.
Pet Care:
- Bath N’ Buns Mobile Pet Grooming: Offers complimentary bath services for cats and dogs affected by the fires.
- Vetster: Provides free telehealth appointments for pets impacted by the fires.
Mental Health Support:
- Disaster Distress Helpline: Available 24/7 for emotional support; call 1-800-985-5990.
- Los Angeles County ACCESS Center: Offers mental health services and referrals; call 1-800-854-7771.
Additional Resources:
- U-Haul: Provides 30 days of free self-storage or U-Box container rentals at select locations.
- Discovery Cube Los Angeles: Offers free admission to community members on January 9 and 10.
For the most current information and additional resources, please refer to local news outlets and official announcements.
Support and Resources for Southern California Wildfire Victims
The Times
How to help the victims of LA fires
Today
Pitchfork
Recording Academy and MusiCares Pledge $1 Million to Support Musicians Impacted by Los Angeles Fires
Today
InStyle
Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Are Housing Loved Ones in Their Montecito Home Amid L.A. Fires
Today
by Contributor
Modernism Week in Palm Springs is an annual event that celebrates the mid-century modern design, architecture, art, and culture that defines the region. Attracting design enthusiasts, historians, and curious visitors alike, the event offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from architectural tours to interactive workshops. Here’s a deep dive into its fascinating history and what makes the current iteration an unmissable experience.
History of Modernism Week
Palm Springs became a hotspot for modernist architecture during the mid-20th century when leading architects like Richard Neutra, Albert Frey, and William Krisel designed homes, public buildings, and neighborhoods in the area. The combination of sleek designs, innovative materials, and the integration of indoor-outdoor living harmonized with the desert environment, establishing the city as a hub for mid-century modernism.
Modernism Week began in 2006 as a weekend celebration of this architectural legacy. Since then, it has grown into an internationally recognized 11-day festival, drawing tens of thousands of attendees each year. The event not only pays homage to the city’s modernist heritage but also promotes preservation and appreciation of this iconic design movement.
For more about the history of Modernism Week, visit their official About Us page.
Highlights of Modernism Week Today
Modernism Week offers a dynamic lineup of activities catering to a wide range of interests. Here’s what attendees can expect:
1. Architectural Tours
- Home Tours: Explore stunning examples of mid-century modern homes, many of which are private residences rarely open to the public.
- Bus and Walking Tours: Guided tours showcase iconic landmarks like the Kaufmann Desert House and Frey House II, alongside hidden gems. View tour options here.
2. Design and Fashion Events
- Retro-inspired fashion shows highlight the timeless elegance of mid-century style.
- Showcases of furniture and decor designed by legendary and contemporary creators keep the aesthetic alive. Explore related events on the Modernism Week schedule.
3. Educational Opportunities
- Lectures and Panels: Experts discuss topics like preservation, sustainable design, and the influence of mid-century modernism on contemporary architecture.
- Workshops: Learn hands-on skills such as restoring vintage furniture or creating period-specific decor. See a list of workshops here.
4. Cultural Experiences
- Film screenings spotlight mid-century design and its role in pop culture.
- Art exhibits explore the visual and functional aspects of the movement.
5. Social Events
- Parties and Mixers: Venues across Palm Springs host gatherings that combine nostalgia with modern flair, offering an immersive and festive atmosphere.
- The Modernism Show & Sale: A marketplace featuring over 80 premier dealers selling vintage furniture, art, and collectibles. Learn more about the Modernism Show & Sale here.
A Look into Preservation
Modernism Week is also a force for preservation. The festival’s non-profit arm supports the restoration and maintenance of significant structures, ensuring that Palm Springs’ architectural heritage endures for future generations. Participants often visit projects funded by Modernism Week, seeing firsthand how their involvement supports this cause. Read about the organization’s preservation efforts here.
Why Modernism Week Stands Out
Modernism Week blends history, culture, and fun into an experience that feels both nostalgic and contemporary. Whether you’re an architecture aficionado, a design enthusiast, or simply looking for inspiration, this event offers something for everyone. From breathtaking architectural tours to chic social events, it’s a unique celebration of a timeless aesthetic.
Plan your visit or learn more at the official Modernism Week website.
by Contributor
Los Muertos 5k celebrates Day of the Dead with a vibrant 5k run or walk that takes place in Downtown Los Angeles. Thousands of families and friends gather together in a fun atmosphere to remember loved ones that have passed, in this rich cultural tradition. Festivities and traditions include face painting to resemble skulls, decorating altars with bright orange marigold flowers, candles, photos, and other memorabilia. There will also be an official Community Altar for participants to decorate, a pre-start purification ceremony with traditional Aztec dancers and a post-race festival, complete with mariachi bands, folkloric dance groups and stilt walkers honoring art, music, and community.
The race starts on Main Street, in El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, the oldest section of Los Angeles, and home to Olvera Street. The course runs through lower Chinatown and past the recently upgraded Los Angeles State Historic Park. The top three runners of their genders will be awarded a unique hand-painted skull trophy.
WHERE: Olvera Street * 845 N Alameda St Los Angeles, CA 90012
When: Saturday, Nov. 2, 2024 at 8:00 a.m.
Beneficiary: Olvera Street Merchants Association Foundation
Website: https://losmuertos5k.com/events/los-angeles/
Price: $48 – $59.76
by Contributor
Yes! The Hotel Figueroa has partnered with I Am a Voter to serve as a polling place from October 26-November 5th. If you are unfamiliar with this iconic hotel, this could be a great reason to visit.
This year, amidst another pivotal presidential election season, the historic Hotel Figueroa, one of Los Angeles’ most iconic hotels and a Travel + Leisure ‘World’s Best’ award recipient, is continuing its legacy as a community pillar and mainstay by announcing that the hotel will once again serve as an official polling place from October 26 – November 5 for the 2024 Presidential Election. In partnership with I Am A Voter, a nonpartisan organization creating a cultural shift around voting and civic engagement, and with the hotel’s deep roots centered around empowering women, recently celebrating its own 98th birthday, and the ongoing importance of civic engagement, Hotel Figueroa is proud to provide a space for its community to participate in this crucial democratic process.
Photos above: Hotel Figueroa, Now & Then: From 1926 to 2024
L.A. locals voting at Hotel Figueroa will be directed to the hotel’s historic Gran Sala event space to cast their ballots in a welcoming and accessible environment for the ten days leading up to the election and on Election Day itself:
- Saturday, October 26 to Monday, November 4, 2024: Voting open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Tuesday, November 5 (Election Day): Voting open from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
The iconic hotel boasts a rich history deeply rooted in the women’s movement in Los Angeles. Funded and built by women in 1926 as an exclusive women’s hostel by the YWCA, Hotel Figueroa was “financed, built and operated by and for femininity,” according to a Los Angeles Times article at the time, and was the largest project of its kind in the United States to be financed, owned, and operated by women.” For years, the space has served as a meeting place for practically every women’s club in Los Angeles, and it proudly holds true to its founding roots to this day.
“With a near-century-long history of serving our Downtown Los Angeles community, Hotel Figueroa is proud to welcome voters by opening up our Gran Sala ballroom as a safe, convenient, and accessible place to vote in 2024,” said Managing Director Connie Wang.
The hotel’s on-site bar and lounge, Bar Magnolia, will be open daily from 3:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. throughout the election period, offering a 10% discount to guests who present an “I Voted” sticker while enjoying a curated selection of European-inspired spirits alongside a light, all-day small plates menu.
Hotel Figueroa is located at 939 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015. For more information on Hotel Figueroa as a polling place during the 2024 Presidential Election, please visit www.hotelfigueroa.com or https://iamavoter.com/.
About Hotel Figueroa
Hotel Figueroa remains one of the only preserved treasures in Downtown Los Angeles with a uniquely independent spirit and luxury brand authentic only to the City of Angels. Originally opened in 1926 as an exclusive women’s hostelry, the iconic destination underwent an extensive redesign in 2018 that pays tribute to its rich history, melding original 1920s Spanish Colonial splendor with contemporary touches that celebrate its deep roots in Los Angeles. Hotel Figueroa’s reimagination exceeds the expectations of the new generation of guests, with 268 guest rooms and suites that are distinctively engaging. An ever-evolving art program offers museum-quality installations from local artists and literary collections from Los Angeles-based authors. New and exciting culinary experiences include the hotel’s newly debuted Mediterranean and Aegean Sea-inspired flagship dining destination, Deme, all-day Café Fig, and lobby mainstay, Bar Magnolia. Expansive and intimate private event venues, including the Gran Sala ballroom space span 10,000 square feet in addition to a lushly landscaped pool area.
by Contributor
“A lot of my pictures are confrontational and controlled; they’re not observational or voyeuristic. I aim to create something that is strong, powerful, memorable, interesting and technically correct, not lazy.”
– Albert Watson
All Photos Courtesy of Fahey/Klein Gallery
The Fahey/Klein Gallery is pleased to present No Idle View, Albert Watson’s first solo exhibition with the gallery in thirty years. To celebrate the storied legacy of acclaimed photographer Albert Watson, a
career that began in Los Angeles in the 1970’s, this retrospective exhibition explores Watson’s rich body of work. The photographs on view showcase his distinctive style that is deeply rooted in cinematic sensibility and brings to life moments of stillness and drama that feel as if they exist beyond the frame.
No Idle View will be a combination of well-known images, vintage prints, Polaroids, and previously unexhibited works.
“A lot of my pictures are confrontational and controlled; they’re not observational or voyeuristic. I aim to create something that is strong, powerful, memorable, interesting and technically correct, not lazy.”
– Albert Watson
Born in Edinburgh, Scotland, Albert Watson studied graphic design & film and credits his success as a photographer to this broad visual education. His photographic career began in 1970 after moving to Los
Angeles where he shot beauty advertisements and fashion photography before earning wider acclaim
for his celebrity portraits. His distinctive style captured the eye of many American and European fashion magazines. Watson has shot over 100 covers for Vogue, in addition to publishing images in countless
publications, from Rolling Stone to TIME Magazine and Harper’s Bazaar. Though blind in one eye since birth, Watson is known for his masterful manipulation of contrasts and delicate compositions. He uses the physical traits of the human body to create formal and sculptural images.
Albert Watson has been named one of the 20 most influential photographers of all time along with other luminaries of the medium like Irving Penn and Richard Avedon. His photographs are held in collections of important museums such as the National Portrait Gallery, London; The Metropolitan
Museum of Art, New York; the J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles; and the Smithsonian Institution,
Washington, D.C. He is the recipient of numerous honors, including a Lucie Award, a Grammy Award,
and the Centenary Medal, a lifetime achievement award from the Royal Photographic Society. In 2015,
Queen Elizabeth II awarded him an Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his lifetime contribution to the art of photography. He has also published many books and catalogues, notably the acclaimed
monographs Cyclops (1994) and Kaos
Albert Watson:
No Idle View
November 14, 2024 through January 11, 2025
Exhibition Reception: Thursday, November 14th
Exhibition Walk-through with Albert Watson: Saturday, November 16th
Fahey/Klein Gallery
148 N. La Brea Avenue
Los Angeles CA 90036
Tel: 323-934-2250
www.faheykleingallery.com
by Contributor
Obesity is a growing public health concern across the United States, with the state of California being no exception. According to a GlobalData report, obesity can have profound economic implications in California, with the reduction in the economy amounting to $89.5 billion or about 2.5% of the state’s gross domestic product. Since obesity is a progressive condition that can decrease the quality of life and increase the risk of other chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease, these economic costs mainly come from healthcare expenses and workforce productivity losses. For instance, there are 353,600 fewer adults in the workforce due to obesity-related unemployment and preventable deaths. Employers also spend $6.3 billion more on weight-related absenteeism and disability among overweight or obese employees. Considering the staggering costs of obesity on health and quality of life, obesity prevention, and management interventions must become accessible among Californians. Weight loss drugs emerge as an increasingly available option for overweight and obese residents, demanding a closer look at how they work and what patients must consider before taking them.
How weight loss drugs work
In a previous article from the ongoing Ask the Experts series, primary care physician Dr. David Nazarian explains that a class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists is now being used for weight loss. Although GLP-1 agonists were originally used to treat type 2 diabetes, they can also be prescribed for chronic weight loss and management.
GLP-1 agonists mimic the brain receptors and gut hormones responsible for satiety and appetite control. By binding to GLP-1 receptors, these medications can curb hunger and slow down stomach emptying, thus preventing overeating and promoting weight loss.
Weekly injectables that aid weight loss
Weight loss drugs typically come in the form of weekly injectables, which means they are liquid medications administered with a needle and syringe. Among the GLP-1 agonists available to Californians enrolled in the Medicaid program is the liraglutide Saxenda, which may be used by adults with obesity or adults who are overweight and have a weight-related complication like diabetes or hypertension.
Likewise, Novo Nordisk’s Wegovy is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for heart health and chronic weight management. After a House Bill was passed this year, California is now among the states whose Medicaid program covers Wegovy as weight loss drugs with added health benefits, such as improved blood sugar levels.
Another increasingly accessible GLP-1 agonist is Ozempic, which is also a semaglutide like Wegovy and can lower blood sugar and reduce appetite. However, since Ozempic is only approved by the FDA for type 2 diabetes, there have been concerns about its side effects on overweight or obese individuals.
Side effects of weight loss drugs
One of the most visible side effects of taking Ozempic for weight loss is Ozempic butt, which is characterized by the loose, sagging appearance of the buttocks. This phenomenon can be attributed to how Ozempic induces rapid weight loss of about 5.9% after three months and 10.9% without six months.
Losing a significant amount of weight within a short period means the skin can barely adjust and becomes less elastic, leading to wrinkly, sagging, and even aging skin. Other side effects of Ozempic include headache, dizziness, fatigue, and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. In 2023, about 12% of reported overdose exposures to semaglutide were from California, which also highlights the need for medical supervision when using weight loss drugs.
Other weight loss approaches
While weight loss drugs can be effective, overweight or obese individuals can reduce the risk of their side effects by looking into other weight loss approaches. A notable example is bariatric surgery, which manages obesity and related conditions through medical procedures like the alteration of gut hormones, reduction of stomach size, and modification or bypass of the intestines.
A news article reports that 4.4% of the severely obese children in southern California qualify for pediatric bariatric surgery, with children’s hospitals Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, UCLA Health, and Stanford Children’s Health offering the procedure.
Beyond these medical approaches, healthy and sustainable weight loss can also be achieved through lifestyle modifications like a reduced-calorie diet and regular exercise.
by Contributor
Fall television programming traditionally features a mix of new series debuts, returning favorites, and special events. Here’s a breakdown of what Fall 2024 looks like for TV programming:
Scripted Dramas & Comedies
New Premieres: Fall is the time when networks introduce new shows. Expect a range of new dramas and comedies trying to capture attention. Themes often include family life, thrillers, legal dramas, or comedies set in workplaces.
Returning Favorites: Many fan-favorite shows are returning, from long-running police procedurals like NCIS and Law & Order to hit sitcoms like Abbott Elementary. Several popular dramas (like Grey’s Anatomy) also return with new seasons, attracting loyal viewers.
Strikes Impact: The 2023 Writers Guild of America (WGA) and Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA) strikes may have delayed some scripted programming, so networks have had to adjust their schedules. This includes shifting premiere dates, shorter seasons, or pushing shows to midseason.
Reality Shows
Competition Series: Fall remains a hotspot for major reality competitions like The Voice, Survivor, The Masked Singer, and Dancing with the Stars. These shows are reliable, as reality programming isn’t as affected by the writers’ and actors’ strikes.
New Reality & Docuseries: Networks are also rolling out new reality-based programming, tapping into interests like dating, survival, and celebrity life.
Streaming Services
Platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ continue offering exclusive new series and films throughout the Fall. Netflix is still a leader with its mix of original dramas, reality shows, and global content.
Many streaming services have started experimenting with weekly episode releases for key shows, rather than dropping entire seasons at once, to keep viewers engaged.
Sports & Events
Football: NFL and college football dominate primetime, especially on weekends. Monday Night Football and Sunday Night Football continue to be some of the highest-rated programs.
Award Shows: The Emmys, typically held in September, have been postponed to January 2024 due to the strikes, impacting Fall programming.
Holiday Programming
As Fall transitions into late November and December, there will be a ramp-up in holiday-themed TV. This includes Thanksgiving specials, Christmas movies on Hallmark, Lifetime, and Netflix, and end-of-year events.
Overall, Fall 2024 television programming is navigating through some production challenges, but with a blend of reality TV, sports, and creative use of streaming content, there’s still a diverse lineup for viewers.
by Contributor
Here’s a ranking of the top airlines in the world for 2024, based on the most respected airline rankings by Skytrax and AirlineRatings:
Top 10 Airlines in 2024 (Skytrax & AirlineRatings Combined):
- Qatar Airways
- Best for: Business Class, service quality, Middle Eastern routes.
- Awards: Best Business Class, Best Airline in the Middle East
-
- Singapore Airlines
- Best for: First Class, cabin crew, Asia routes.
- Awards: Best Cabin Staff, Best Airline in Asia
- Emirates
- Best for: In-flight entertainment, premium economy, and Middle Eastern routes.
- Awards: Best Premium Economy
- ANA All Nippon Airways
- Best for: Cleanliness, Japanese routes, and service reliability.
- Strong across: Business and economy cabins(
- Cathay Pacific
- Best for: Economy class, Asian routes, safety.
- Awards: World’s Best Economy Class(
- Japan Airlines (JAL)
- Best for: Premium economy, punctuality, customer service(
- Turkish Airlines
- Best for European and global connectivity, business class catering.
- Awards: Best Airline in Europe, Best Business Class Catering(
- EVA Air
- Best for: Service excellence, trans-Pacific routes(
- Air France
- Best for: First-class dining, Western European routes.
- Awards: Best First Class Catering(
- Swiss International Air Lines
- Best for: Service efficiency, safety record(
Other notable airlines include Korean Air for its service across North Asia and British Airways for its family-friendly services
Mothership
For U.S.-based airlines, Delta Air Lines ranks highest at 21st globally, recognized for its excellent cabin crew and class offerings in North America(
by Contributor
First, the weather: An Indian Summer refers to a period of unusually warm and dry weather occurring in autumn, typically after the first frost. It often happens between late September and mid-November in the Northern Hemisphere. The name originated in the U.S. during the 18th century, possibly because the warm spell allowed Native Americans (referred to as “Indians” then) to continue hunting and harvesting. And that is what we have as October starts out with three-digit days. But, it is also a time of festivals, events and experiences. Here are just a few
October in Los Angeles offers a variety of exciting events, perfect for every interest:
- Hans Zimmer Live (Oct 1 & 11): Experience the legendary film composer at the Crypto.com Arena with a live band and orchestra, performing iconic movie scores in a stunning audiovisual show
- (Secret Los Angeles) (Experism).
- American Idiot (Oct 2 – Nov 10): Green Day’s rock opera returns to the Mark Taper Forum, blending music with ASL performances by both Deaf and hearing actors
- (Experism).
- Punk in Drublic Festival (Oct 5-6): Celebrate the final stop of NOFX’s tour with live punk rock music, craft beer tastings, and food trucks in San Pedro
- (Experism).
- House of Spirits: Casa Vega: For a haunted twist, explore themed cocktails and eerie interactive experiences inspired by Francisco Goya at this immersive event
- (Secret Los Angeles).
- Beetlejuice: The Afterlife Experience: Dive into the world of Beetlejuice with live entertainment and photo ops at Ovation Hollywood (
Secret Los Angeles).
