by June Miller Richards | Apr 24, 2024
on May 3 at Melissa Morgan Fine Art Gallery
Idyllwild Arts Academy debuts its spring 2024 off-site student exhibition with a reception on Friday, May 3. The students are excited to show their work once again to the desert audience in a reception that will be held at Melissa Morgan Fine Art Gallery (73-660 El Paseo, Palm Desert), a prestigious contemporary gallery, on Friday, May 3 from 4-7 p.m. At 6 p.m., songwriting students from Idyllwild Arts Academy will perform their original compositions at a free concert in the gallery’s sculpture garden down the block.
The exhibition, which is free and open to the public, will also be on view on Saturday, May 4 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature the year’s best visual works from the pioneering arts high school that has been changing lives through the transformative power of art for more than 70 years. With the popularity increasing over the years, the exhibition now takes up the main section of the gallery with an expanded breadth and quantity of art works than in year’s past.
With the extraordinary generosity of Melissa Morgan Fine Art, all of the artwork in the exhibition will be for sale, including a selection of unframed prints for buyers to take home, with 100% of the proceeds going to the artist and to the Visual Arts Department at Idyllwild Arts.
For more information: https://www.idyllwildartsgallery.org/2024-va-showcase
by Randy Dunbar | Apr 20, 2024
Southern California has an exciting lineup of events scheduled for the week of April 22, 2024, offering something for everyone, from music and TV enthusiasts to foodies and outdoor adventurers.
- PaleyFest 2024 – Taking place at the Dolby Theatre from April 12-21, PaleyFest is a must for TV show fans, featuring panel discussions with the creators and cast members of popular shows like “The Morning Show”, “Loki”, “Curb Your Enthusiasm”, and more (Time Out Worldwide).
- Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival – The iconic music festival continues in Indio through April 21. This year’s headliners include Lana Del Rey, Tyler the Creator, and Doja Cat, among others, offering a vibrant blend of musical performances (Discover Los Angeles).
- Masters of Taste – On April 7, head to the Rose Bowl Stadium for a gourmet experience with tastings from top chefs and restaurants, along with craft cocktails and local breweries. This event is ideal for food enthusiasts (Experism).
- L.A. Times Festival of Books – Taking place on April 20-21 at the University of Southern California, this festival is perfect for book lovers, featuring a large array of exhibitors, author readings, and panels (Time Out Worldwide).
- Renaissance Faire in Irwindale – Running until May 9, this event recreates a 1574 spring day with games, arts and crafts, music, and dance, complete with costumed performers and artisans (Daytrippen.com).
- Bob Baker Day – On April 21, the Los Angeles State Historic Park will host a celebration in honor of the late Bob Baker, featuring puppet performances and various crafts and activities for families (Time Out Worldwide).
- CicLAvia: Venice Blvd – On April 21, this event will transform parts of Venice Blvd into a car-free zone, promoting bike-friendly and pedestrian-friendly activities and providing a unique way to experience the city (Time Out Worldwide).
- Pizza City Fest – Scheduled for April 27-28, this festival at L.A. Live celebrates all things pizza, with over 40 vendors, live dough demonstrations, and talks from pizza experts (Experism).
- Wildflowers & Wine – On April 7, enjoy wine tasting complemented by views of blooming wildflowers in Amador County, with live music and food experiences (Visit California).
- Team Taiko Drum Classes – These classes are part of a spring session teaching Taiko drumming, an energetic and impactful form of Japanese drumming, taking place at the Grand Annex at Grand Vision on April 23 (Discover Los Angeles).
- The Boy Who Cried Wolf – This theatre production will be shown at the Lisa Smith Wengler Center For the Arts on April 23, offering a fresh take on the classic fable (Discover Los Angeles).
- Mr. Parker at Palm Springs Woman’s Club – Catch the play “Mr. Parker” on April 20 and 21 in Palm Springs, exploring themes of personal discovery and change (Palm Springs ).
- Readings at Sunset ~ An Afternoon of Queer Poetry – Enjoy an afternoon of queer poetry at the Pieter Performance Space in Los Angeles on April 28. This event promises a serene environment where poets share their work with the community. https://www.pieterpasd.com/
- Countdown to Pride – As the Pride season approaches, participate in the “Countdown to Pride” event on April 27 at 6250 Hollywood Blvd. This event is set to build excitement and community spirit leading up to the larger Pride celebrations. https://lapride.org
- SECOND PUBERTY 6: TRASHY Y2K — A Trans-Led, Queer Y2K Party!!! – Also on April 28, experience a unique Y2K-themed party led by and celebrating the trans community at Little Joy Cocktails in Los Angeles. https://littlejoy.la/
by Randy Dunbar | Apr 10, 2024
Join us on Saturday, April 13, 2024 for KRAZY KRAFTS DAY at the Printing Museum, a creative day of printing and crafts for the whole family. During this special event we will be offering themed activities throughout the day. These include letterpress printing cards, bookmarks, keepsakes, colorful paper marbling, typing on vintage typewriters, screen printing t-shirts, bookbinding, special tours, and more!
The International Printing Museum is a dynamic museum devoted to bringing the history of printing and books to life for diverse audiences. The Museum is home to one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive collections of antique printing machinery and graphic arts equipment. Our mission is to interpret and present the collection for a contemporary audience through demonstrations of working machinery, historic re-enactments, and hands-on workshops.
Since the museum’s founding in 1988, we have reached over 500,000 people through our programming. We regularly welcome visitors to the Museum to participate in tours and events, such as our quarterly Boy Scout Merit Badge Day, the annual Los Angeles Printers Fair, and Krazy Kraft Day for Kids. Our staff visits schools across California via our History in Motion program, the Museum’s innovative outreach program to schools.
The goal of our programming is to teach visitors about the history of books and printing and how innovations in printing helped shape the modern world. The International Printing Museum has been recognized worldwide for the size and scope of its collection, as well as its creative approaches to sharing the collection with our immediate community and the world at large.
SATURDAYS
10 am to 4 pm
TUESDAY THROUGH FRIDAY
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY
315 W. Torrance Boulevard • Carson, CA 90745
https://www.printmuseum.org/
by June Miller Richards | Mar 30, 2024
On Monday, April 15, Idyllwild Arts showcases their daylong Art in Society’s 7th Annual Symposium, which is free and open to the public, and will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the school’s stunning campus located at 52500 Temecula Road, Idyllwild, California. Illustrating the Citizen Artists that Idyllwild Arts educates, this year’s event features collaborative works from all Arts and Academics departments intertwining their perspectives on the historical, literary and scientific significance of water and its impact on our lives to its powerful creative presence in all forms of art.
The topic is the intersectionality of all the different elements of water, forming a larger tapestry based on what students learned from a fundraising campaign they undertook in fall 2023 with the nonprofit Gravity Water, which supports climate resilience and clean water access in developing nations. Representatives of Gravity Water will feature a presentation in honor of Art in Society’s first global campaign, and the school’s support of a clean water filtration system for children and families in Vietnam.
The event will also showcase guest Lula Washington of the Los Angeles-based Lula Washington Dance Theater with dances based on portraying the rituals and movement created all over the world around water, including rain dances.
Seeking to ignite important dialogue, there will be six student-focused works presented as collaborations between different departments, exploring how water relates to both music and math, an interactive installation intertwining film and environmental studies, a performative activity representing the complex relationship between an individual community and its collection of water as well as visual works that symbolize the intrinsic link between art and water, highlighting how both are essential components of human existence.
Idyllwild Arts is known for its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and innovation in arts education. The institution has a strong emphasis on fostering a global community of artists and educators, welcoming students from various cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Its picturesque campus, surrounded by the natural beauty of the San Jacinto Mountains, provides a tranquil and stimulating environment for artistic growth and exploration.
For more information, visit: https://idyllwildarts.org/event/art-in-society-symposium-2024/.
by Dennis Richardson | Mar 11, 2024
The Viv Hotel and Top of The V are an irresistible magnet for those who crave luxurious, resort-style living and dining, while not far from some of Anaheim’s most popular venues and attractions. If you’ve seen our recent rundown on what’s in store for your stay at The Viv, then you’ll be intrigued to know that the hotel’s crown restaurant has two special events planned for the month of March!
Guests are invited to indulge in a 5-course Glenmorangie Whiskey Pairing Dinner from 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. on March 26, followed by a family-friendly Easter Brunch Buffet on March 31 from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Sip and Savor Glenmorangie Whiskies with a Five-Course Pairing Dinner – March 26
Top of The V, The Viv Hotel’s Spanish rooftop bar and restaurant in downtown Anaheim, is thrilled to host the unique flavors of Glenmorangie’s award-winning whiskies. Guests can purchase tickets for $200 per person, and will enjoy a welcome reception followed by an exclusive five-course dinner, expertly curated by Chef Nate McCoy to complement the rich flavors of Glenmorangie’s finest scotch.
Upon arrival, guests will be greeted with a welcome cocktail, Basque Country pintxos, and a toast by Whiskey Ambassador Travis Tidwell. The five-course menu includes:
- Bacalao Croqueta (fish and chips, potato-crusted salt cod, malt vinegar foam)
- Arroz con Scallops y Morcilla (blood sausage paella, seared scallops, English peas, garlic aioli, pea tendrils)
- Cullen Skink and Poached Halibut (fennel, creamed leeks, fish broth)
- Carrillera, Steak and Ale Pie (beer-braised beef cheek, carrots, celery, onion, beef jus, puffed barley)
- Cranachan, Berries and Cream (mixed berries, honey, toasted oat crumble, Glenmorangie cream)
View the full menu and whiskey pairing options here and reserve a table here.
Celebrate Easter at Top of The V with a Special Brunch Buffet
The Viv Hotel happily invites family and friends, once again, to its rooftop restaurant and bar,
Top of The V, on Sunday, March 31, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. for an Easter Brunch celebration. Here, guests can indulge in a two-hour dining experience featuring a wide array of Spanish and traditional brunch dishes at $50 per person.
Menu highlights curated by Executive Chef Nate McCoy include Torrijas French Toast, Cazuela with stone oven-baked eggs, smoked sausage Buttififara and Jidori Chicken Paella, among other mouth-watering selections. Bottomless mimosa and sangria options are available for an additional cost, and vegetarian and child-friendly options are available upon request. View the full menu
here.
Reserve a table
here and treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind dining experience with unmatched SoCal rooftop views and live guitar music.
About The Viv Hotel
Located close to the Disneyland
® Resort and Anaheim Convention Center, The Viv Hotel creates a boutique upscale experience unique to Anaheim. The 326-room AAA Four Diamond hotel boasts a modern, stylish personality, including its signature rooftop restaurant, Top of The V with spectacular views of the Disneyland
® Resort and Southern California sunsets. Whether it’s the family-friendly Oasis Pool & Cabanas or the adult-exclusive Rooftop Pool, one designs their own experiences at The Viv. For more information or to book a stay at The Viv Hotel, visit
www.thevivhotelanaheim.comor call 714-408-2787. Follow along with The Viv Hotel on social at
Facebook and
Instagram.
by Randy Dunbar | Mar 6, 2024
File under good to know—this coming week, the Natural Products Expo will take place in Anaheim, CA. An event that really requires more than one day it is a look into the health food market and products that will be coming to the public soon. Like most conventions of this sort, one walks out with bags of swag—CBD products, vitamins, sports drinks and many, many more.
Informa Markets’ Natural Products Expo West is one of the largest trade shows in the natural, organic, and healthy products industry. Typically held annually in Anaheim, California, this expo attracts thousands of attendees from around the globe, including industry professionals, exhibitors, and media. It serves as a key platform for companies to showcase new products, innovations, and trends in the health and wellness space.
The expo’s history dates back to 1981 when it was first established. Over the years, it has grown significantly in size and influence, reflecting the growing consumer interest in natural and organic products. The event covers a wide range of product categories, including food and beverage, supplements, health and beauty, natural living, and pet products.
One of the main features of Expo West is its emphasis on education and networking. The event typically includes a variety of educational sessions, workshops, and keynote speeches by industry leaders, aimed at providing attendees with insights into market trends, regulatory issues, and sustainability practices. These sessions are designed to help industry professionals stay ahead of the curve in an ever-evolving market.
Sustainability and innovation are often key themes at the expo, with many exhibitors and speakers focusing on eco-friendly practices, organic farming, plant-based products, and other trends that cater to the growing consumer demand for products that are not only healthy but also environmentally responsible.
Expo West has also been known for its efforts to promote inclusivity and support for small businesses and startups. The event provides a platform for emerging brands to gain visibility, connect with retailers and distributors, and potentially scale their operations.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic saw the expo adapting to virtual formats, demonstrating the resilience and flexibility of the natural products community. As the industry continues to evolve, Natural Products Expo West remains a vital event for networking, innovation, and insight into the future of natural and organic products.
2024 Dates & Hours
Events and Education:
March 12-16, 2024
Tradeshow:
Fresh Ideas Organic Marketplace
Wednesday, March 13, 2024 | 11:00am – 4:00pm
ACC Level 3 & North Halls
Wednesday, March 13, 2024 | 12:00 – 6:00pm
*Buyer-only Exhibit Hall Badges: 12:00 – 1:00pm
*All Exhibit Hall Badges: 1:00 – 6:00pm
Thursday, March 14, 2024 | 9:00am – 6:00pm
Friday, March 15, 2024 | 9:00am – 6:00pm
ACC Halls A-E & Arena
Thursday, March 14, 2024 | 10:00am – 6:00pm
Friday, March 15, 2024 | 10:00am – 6:00pm
Saturday, March 16, 2024 | 10:00am – 4:00pm
*Buyer-only hours include retail buyers, hosted buyers, food service buyers, and health practitioners
by Randy Dunbar | Feb 27, 2024
The strike is over and Hollywood is back to work. Turns out 2023 was a very good year for the movies. On Sunday, March 10, the envelope will be handed out with the winners. The show, hosted again by Jimmy Kimmel and this year, the Oscars have an earlier timeslot and will kick off at 7 p.m. EST/4 p.m. PST. Prior to the awards show, a pre-show will take place at 6:30 p.m. EST/3:30 p.m. PST.
The Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, are a set of awards for artistic and technical merit in the film industry. Given annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), the awards recognize excellence in cinematic achievements as assessed by the Academy’s voting membership.
There are options for viewing the Awards—here are just a few:
- El Capitan Theatre: They host a special Oscars watch party where you can experience the glamour of the event on a big screen. It’s a unique way to enjoy the ceremony with other movie fans.
- The Abbey Food & Bar in West Hollywood: Known for its vibrant atmosphere, The Abbey offers an Oscar viewing party that’s especially popular with the LGBTQ+ community. It’s a great place to enjoy the ceremony in a lively setting.
- Oscars Viewing Party at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel: This historic hotel, situated just half a block away from the actual Oscars ceremony, offers a viewing party at its Library Bar or the Public Kitchen and Bar. Guests can watch the Oscars pre-show and see the stars arrive, making it a memorable experience close to the action.
So get out your cocktails, your pencils and money—let the ballots begin! You can download a usable ballot from here
The 2024 Oscars nominations feature a diverse range of films, performances, and creative efforts across various categories. Here are the highlights from key categories:
Best Picture
- “American Fiction”
- “Anatomy of a Fall”
- “Barbie”
- “The Holdovers”
- “Killers of the Flower Moon”
- “Maestro”
- “Oppenheimer”
- “Past Lives”
- “Poor Things”
- “The Zone of Interest”
Best Actor in a Leading Role
- Bradley Cooper in “Maestro”
- Colman Domingo in “Rustin”
- Paul Giamatti in “The Holdovers”
- Cillian Murphy in “Oppenheimer”
- Jeffrey Wright in “American Fiction”
Best Actress in a Leading Role
- Annette Bening in “Nyad”
- Lily Gladstone in “Killers of the Flower Moon”
- Sandra Hüller in “Anatomy of a Fall”
- Carey Mulligan in “Maestro”
- Emma Stone in “Poor Things”
Best Director
- Justine Triet for “Anatomy of a Fall”
- Martin Scorsese for “Killers of the Flower Moon”
- Christopher Nolan for “Oppenheimer”
- Yorgos Lanthimos for “Poor Things”
- Jonathan Glazer for “The Zone of Interest”
Best Animated Feature Film
- “The Boy and the Heron”
- “Elemental”
- “Nimona”
- “Robot Dreams”
- “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”
Best International Feature Film
- “Io Capitano” (Italy)
- “Perfect Days” (Japan)
- “Society of the Snow” (Spain)
- “The Teachers’ Lounge” (Germany)
- “The Zone of Interest” (United Kingdom)
Best Visual Effects
- “The Creator”
- “Godzilla Minus One”
- “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”
- “Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning Part One”
- “Napoleon”
This year’s nominations reflect a wide array of storytelling themes and techniques, showcasing both historical and contemporary narratives, animated features, and films that push the envelope in visual effects and production design
by Dennis Richardson | Jan 12, 2024
If you’re looking for something fresh and new in Southern California, perhaps a new coffee spot will scratch that itch you’ve got. LA is no stranger to coffee brands or cafés, and with so many options to choose from, there are definitely many favorites near and dear to countless hearts.
Brewing in LA for the last 8 years, Tectonic Coffee is adding a fresh dose of caffeine to the West Hollywood area, and this will be their first flagship café despite their nearly decade-old existence. In what is bound to be the new neighborhood destination for flat whites, delicious pastries, and cozy vibes, Tectonic Café is fulfilling a long awaited dream for its loyal fans.
The new café is hosting a grand opening party on Sunday, January 14th, from 8 am to 12 pm, and will be open every day from 6:30 am – 3:30 pm, starting Monday, January 15th. Attendees can enjoy music and half-off drinks and snacks, while relaxing and getting to know the new neighbor who is bound to be a people magnet.
Tectonic Coffee’s founder, Deaton Pigot, brings a wealth of 25+ years industry experience. As a well-rounded coffee professional, he has a tested palette notably judging on multiple Cup of Excellence panels internationally in countries like Honduras, Brazil, Peru, Costa Rica and Colombia. In addition, Deaton has judged on national-level Barista Championships and has coached multiple US Regional and National Barista Champions.
He not only roasts Tectonic coffee beans in LA, but he personally travels to coffee-producing regions to collaborate with local producers and trusted importers, ensuring only the highest-quality beans make their way to America.
As if that were not enough, Tectonic Café is more than just a new place to go pick up your brew, but they also deliver straight to you! Tectonic offers a selection of brews that you can order and subscribe to, with their very own team of experts who will pick out the right variety for your tastes – or allowing you to customize your order to your liking. Subscribers are free to pause, cancel, or adjust their subscription at any time. A new neighbor and goodies delivered home? Count us in!
Tectonic Coffee Café is located at:
1040 N. Fairfax Ave.
West Hollywood, CA 90046
by Dennis Richardson | Jan 9, 2024
On Quitter’s Day (January 12), KIND Snacks is launching “Better You by Lana,” a one-day-only immersive wellness pop-up based in Los Angeles, CA, that flips the script on how to start the New Year, with actress, Lana Condor. By launching on Quitter’s Day, the day by which most Americans have quit their New Year’s resolutions, KIND and Lana are inviting consumers to shut out the noise and stress that heightens around the New Year and trust their taste buds.
Health and diet-related New Year’s resolutions rank among the highest set during the New Year. The pressure to “be better” at the start of each year is often matched with confusion. One recent study on eating habits showed that while over 70% of respondents across markets want to be healthier, half of the group found difficulty understanding what they need to do when it comes to making choices about their health. The abundance of noise and confusion creates conflicting messaging around how and what people should eat.
Through the pop-up experience and partnership with Lana, KIND invites Americans to think differently about the pressures we face when making choices about food and wellness. Through the pop-up experience and partnership with Lana, KIND invites Americans to think differently about the pressures we face when making choices about food and wellness. “It is nearly impossible to start the year without the overwhelming pressure and noise of our ‘eat this, not that’ culture that escalates each January,” said Osher Hoberman, Chief Marketing Officer at KIND. “As a continuation of KIND’s commitment to nutrition education and nourishment, we are challenging the status quo and empowering Americans to trust their taste buds to lead them to whole, recommended foods we’re not eating enough of today.”
“Each and every January, we all feel like we should be changing our daily routines to become better versions of ourselves. It’s time to ask ourselves how well these resolutions are serving us,” said Lana. “Better You by Lana certainly sounds like a wellness store in name, but the experience KIND and I teamed up to create is anything but. We will empower consumers to shut out the noise that comes with the new year.”
To visit Better You by Lana, stop by Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade on 395 Santa Monica Place, Unit 146 from 12–9 pm PT. The first 100 people in line will receive a custom gift from Lana and KIND while supplies last.
About KIND Snacks
Since 2004, KIND has been on a mission to create a kinder and healthier world – one snack and one act at a time. Its iconic KIND® bars – made with real, recognizable ingredients – sparked the growth of an entirely new healthy snacking category. Today, KIND has a family of more than 80 snacks that offer solutions for a variety of occasions. All of KIND’s products lead with a nutrient-dense first ingredient –nuts or whole grains – and do not contain genetically engineered ingredients, sugar alcohols or artificial sweeteners.
Inspired by the belief that acts of kindness can be a transformative force for good, the KIND brand seeks to inspire kindness and empathy. KIND was founded by Daniel Lubetzky. To learn more about KIND, please visit www.kindsnacks.com and join us on LinkedIn, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.
1 Grimmelt, A., Moulton, J., Pandya, C., & Snezhkova, N. (2022, October 5). Hungry and confused: The winding road to conscious eating. McKinsey & Co. https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/consumer-packaged-goods/our-insights/hungry-and-confused-the-winding-road-to-conscious-eating
by Anthony Stafford | Jan 9, 2024
With a new year comes new events! Whether you’re burnt out from the holidays and need a refresh, or you’re still riding high on the joys of the holiday season, there’s something going on for everyone! Here’s what’s happening in SoCal this month, and how you can kick off 2024 in the way that suits you.
Westfield Century City
January 9
Westfield Century City is celebrating new nonstop flights provided by JetBlue and Alaska Airlines from LAX to Nassau & Paradise Island! At this branded activation, you can meet resort partners, participate in trip giveaways, enjoy authentic Bahamian cooking, music and mixologist demonstrations, and much more. The celebration takes place in the Westfield Century City Atrium from 12 pm to 6 pm PT.
Event Agenda:
- 12:10 PM- Live art by celebrity artist Jamaal Rolle
- 12:40 PM- Bahamian trivia contest with giveaways
- 1:00 PM- Bahamian recipe demonstration by Ocean Club a Four Seasons Resort chef
- 1:20 PM- Junkanoo performance by The Valley Boys, presented by Baha Mar
- 1:50 PM- Bahamian Language demonstration/ giveaways
- 2:00 PM- Atlantis Paradise Island mixologist demonstration
- 2:20 PM- Live art by Celebrity artist Jamaal Rolle
- 2:30 PM- James Bond trivia/ giveaways
- 3:00 PM- Bahamian recipe demonstration by Ocean Club a Four Seasons Resort chef
- 3:20 PM- Junkanoo performance by The Valley Boys, presented by Baha Mar
- 3:50 PM- Bahamian Language demonstration/ giveaways
- 4:00 PM- Atlantis Paradise Island mixologist demonstration
- 4:20 PM- Live art by Celebrity artist Jamaal Rolle
- 4:30 PM- James Bond trivia/ giveaways
- 5:00 PM- Bahamian recipe demonstration by Ocean Club a Four Seasons Resort chef
- 5:20 PM- Junkanoo performance by The Valley Boys, presented by Baha Mar
- 5:50 PM- Junkanoo instruments demonstration
Westfield Topanga
January 11 & Later
Valley Food Truck Festival at Topanga Social (from 6-9pm):
A food lover’s paradise, enjoy a diverse selection of food trucks with something for everyone! Peruse ten eclectic food trucks at Topanga Social and enjoy live entertainment while you graze – admission is free!
Paint & Sip at Truffle Brother’s Wine Room:
Grab a brush, sip on your favorite beverage, and let your imagination run wild. Included in your ticket is your first glass of wine on Truffle Brothers! Whether you’re looking for a unique date night or a fun outing with friends, Paint & Sip is the place to be.
Succulent Workshop at Topanga Social (21+):
Choose your vessel and pot your own mini terrarium, and let the expert instructors guide you through the process of potting and propagating these adorable plants, so you can create your own mini succulent garden to take home. Plus, each ticket includes your first Mimosa or Bellini on the house!
Candle Making at Topanga Social (21+):
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned candle maker, this event is perfect for anyone who wants to unleash their creative side and make something special. Plus, each ticket includes your first Mimosa or Bellini on the house!
Lana Condor & KIND Wellness Experience Pop-Up in Santa Monica
January 12
Every January, Americans feel the pressure to better themselves. On Friday, January 12, also known as Quitters Day, the day by which most Americans have quit their New Year’s resolutions, KIND and actress Lana Condor are teaming up to flip the script on how we start the New Year with the opening of a new wellness experience, ‘Better You by Lana,’ in Santa Monica.
“Better You by Lana” will take place at 395, Santa Monica Place, Unit 146 and will be open to the public for one day only – on Friday, January 12 from 12:00 pm-9:00 pm. The first 100 people in line will receive a custom gift from Lana and KIND (including a handwritten note from Lana herself, and an assortment of complimentary, delicious, and nutritious KIND Snacks)!
Westfield Topanga
January 19 & 26
Bowling With The Stars at Pinstripes (January 19 & January 26):
Pinstripes is bringing the magic of Disney’s FROZEN on Friday, January 19 from 10AM – 3PM, and will be bringing excitement of Superhero Stars on Friday, January 26 from 10AM – 3PM. Gather the kiddos, friends and family for bowling with some of your favorite characters! Enjoy one hour of bowling and a kids meal for $20.
by Dennis Richardson | Oct 26, 2023
The Unusual Suspects Theatre Company is thrilled to announce its 30th Anniversary Fundraiser Gala, a significant milestone commemorating their dedication to transforming the lives of young individuals through the enchanting world of theater and storytelling. This gala extravaganza is scheduled for Friday, October 27, at the elegant venue of The Ebell Los Angeles, promising an unforgettable evening brimming with entertainment, inspiration, and a strong sense of community.
For a remarkable 30 years, The Unusual Suspects, founded by the talented actress Laura Leigh Hughes, has been unwavering in its commitment to providing a haven for underprivileged youth from underserved communities in Los Angeles. This space has allowed these young minds to explore their creativity, foster self-confidence, and develop essential life skills. Through the medium of theater and storytelling, the organization has empowered thousands of young people to find their unique voices and share their compelling stories. The Unusual Suspects introduces these youngsters to the art of writing, directing, acting, and producing original content, all while granting them access to live theater performances.
The 30th Anniversary Fundraiser Gala will roll out the red carpet and treat attendees to an exciting auction, live musical performances, and, most importantly, a spectacular play featuring celebrity actors like Paola Lázaro (known for her role in The Walking Dead), Shakira Barrera (from Glow), Gabriela Ortega (star of Huella), and Jorge Diaz (known for Paranormal Activity). This play is composed of four monologues written by The Unusual Suspects Theater Company’s own students and will be masterfully directed by Academy Award nominee Carlos Lopez Estrada, acclaimed for his work on Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon.
In addition to the captivating performances, the event will unveil The Unusual Suspects Theatre Company’s latest endeavor, DEVISE, a magazine produced in collaboration with Stage Raw. DEVISE will showcase a diverse array of articles, interviews, and advertisements aimed at nurturing and supporting the next generation of artists. With an estimated circulation exceeding 30,000 copies in both digital and print formats, DEVISE aims to bridge the generational gap between theater enthusiasts and creators, distributing the magazine free of charge in spaces accessible to all young individuals interested in Los Angeles’s vibrant theater scene.
The gala evening will be hosted by the talented actress and comedian Veronica Osorio, recognized for her work in The Laundromat, and actor and comedian Erik Escobar, who made a mark on Last Comic Standing. The 30th Anniversary Gala is a collective effort, with The Unusual Suspects Theater at the helm and guidance from their dedicated Board of Directors. The production of this remarkable event is entrusted to Edward Enriquez-Cohen of Olive Productions and Publicity.
The gala will also shine a spotlight on some distinguished honorees, including actor and activist Diego Tinoco, famous for his roles in On My Block on Netflix and Knight of the Zodiac from Sony. He will receive the esteemed Future Generation Impact Award. Power couple Olga Segura, co-founder of The Latinx House and Poderistas, and Ryan Gall, co-founder of Global Citizen Festival, will be honored with The Humanitarian Impact Award. Sara Scott, Chair of The Unusual Suspects Theatre Company’s Board of Directors, will be celebrated with the Outstanding Community Advocate Award.
Abiram Brizuela, the Executive Director of The Unusual Suspects Theatre Company, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m truly so honored as the new executive director of The Unusual Suspects Theatre Company to come together with our USTC family and board of directors as we celebrate this extraordinary 30-year milestone. This is not just a celebration of our organization’s legacy, but an exciting look into our ambitious future through the lens of our young artists’ work.”
The proceeds from the 30th Anniversary Fundraiser Gala will be directed towards supporting The Unusual Suspects’ programs, enabling them to reach even more young individuals and make a lasting impact.
For further information about The Unusual Suspects Theatre Company and to purchase tickets for the 30th Anniversary Fundraiser Gala, visit their website at https://theunusualsuspects.org.
About The Unusual Suspects Theatre Company
The Unusual Suspects Theatre Company is a 501-c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underserved youth through the transformative power of theater and storytelling. For 30 years, The Unusual Suspects has provided a creative outlet for young people, helping them build self-confidence, communication skills, and resilience. The Unusual Suspects Theatre Company embraces theatre as a vehicle for social empowerment. Providing free access to dozens of year-long youth theatre residencies focused on the creation and performance of original plays as well as exposure to professional theatre performances, The Unusual Suspects has evolved from a local program serving roughly 50 participants in Van Nuys in 1993 into a robust program that served over 3,500 youth in over 20 communities of Los Angeles in 2023 alone.
by Dennis Richardson | Sep 7, 2023
Get set for a remarkable rendezvous with entrepreneurial excellence!
Create & Cultivate, the beacon of women-led enterprise, is thrilled to present ‘Behind the Business: Beauty and Wellness’ on the distinguished stage of the California Market Center this weekend, on September 9th.
Imagine this: Ayesha Curry and Melissa Wood-Tepperberg, luminaries in their own right, gracing everyone as keynote luminaries. Prepare for an event akin to a day of lavish “self-care” for your business aspirations, whether they are budding endeavors or thriving enterprises.
This is the ultimate opportunity to immerse yourself in profound dialogues with industry titans, partake in intimate sessions with seasoned mentors, relish exclusive self-care escapades, and secure private consultations with esteemed consultants whose counsel is nothing short of priceless.
Some of the brilliant panelists this year include: Robyn DelMonte of GirlBossTown, Rachel Katzman of Pvolve, Shan Boodram of Lovers & Friends Podcast, Medical Aesthetician Cassandra Bankson, Tai Beauchamp of Brown Girl Jane, Jaclyn Johson of Create & Cultivate, and more. They are poised to unveil the inner workings of all things beauty and wellness.
The subjects on the conversational palette span an array of captivating themes, from ‘2024 Trends To Get Ahead of ASAP’ to the art of ‘How to Build a Brand that People F*cking Love.’ In addition, attendees can expect to dive into the profound discourse surrounding ‘Wellness with Purpose: Building Companies That Have Real Impact.’
This year’s Behind the Business: Beauty & Wellness is not just another event; it’s a vehicle for some of the most inspiring female entrepreneurs in the country to be in community with one another,” said Kate Spies, CEO of Create & Cultivate. “We’ve designed the summit to provide a high-touch
experience, combining intimate mentor sessions, interactive workshops, and engaging panels that tackle the most pressing topics facing entrepreneurs in these two mega-growth industries. This summit is a platform for our community to get what they need to grow their business and achieve
their goals.”
Attendees will partake in mentor sessions, immersive workshops, and enlightening panel discussions that navigate the pressing questions of the entrepreneurial terrain. Networking is paramount, with sessions designed to cater to diverse preferences. Whether you are captivated by ‘Engage, Convert, Connect: The Power of Creator Marketing’ or advocate ‘Cutting the Crap on Clean Beauty,’ a session tailored to your appetite for knowledge is on the books.
The cherry on top? An exceptional gift bag with contents valued at over $800!
Reserve your exclusive access pass now here, and don’t forget to mark your calendar:
WHERE: California Market Center, Los Angeles (California Market Center – 110 East 9th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90079)
WHEN: September 9, 2023, 10 AM – 3 PM
Join Create & Cultivate for a day of enlightenment, networking, and indulgence – because your business journey deserves nothing less!
