by Dennis Richardson
Just in time for Spring and warming weather, Fogo de Chão is bringing back one of its popular and highly craved menus!
Fogo de Chão invites guests to experience its Best of Brazil limited-time menu offering that allows guests to spark discovery through all Fogo has to offer including its Market Table with seasonal soups and salads, continuous tableside service of the best cuts of Brazil and signature Brazilian side dishes for only $54 per person. (The Best of Brazil limited-time menu offering is $49 per person. Prices vary in NY, NJ, D.C. and CA areas where the offering is $54 per person.)
The Best of Brazil menu option features a selection of Fogo’s premium fire-roasted cuts of meat that are butchered and prepared in-house and roasted over an open flame through the Culinary Art of Churrasco, including the best cuts of Brazil like the Picanha, the prime part of the top sirloin, and Fraldinha, the bottom sirloin known for its strong marbling characteristics and robust flavor. Brazilian sides are also included in this limited-time menu alongside favorites from the Market Table like plant-based proteins, imported charcuterie, and fresh soups and salads, bringing guests a seasonal variety of nutrient-dense offerings.
In addition to the Best of Brazil, guests can elevate their dining experience with premium cuts including Whole Branzino or Dry-Aged Tomahawk Ribeye and seafood options a la carte, craft cocktails from Bar Fogo, award-winning South American wines, and decadent desserts like the Cheesecake Brûlée or Chocolate Brigadeiro and more to enhance their experience.
While the Best of Brazil Menu won’t be around for long, it’s best to take advantage of it while it is available. Best of Brazil is available at all U.S. Fogo locations.
For more information about
Fogo de Chão’s new limited-time menu offering, or to make reservations, visit
Fogo.com.
About Fogo de Chão
Fogo is an internationally renowned restaurant from Brazil that elevates the Culinary Art of Churrasco – the art of roasting high-quality cuts of meat over an open flame – into a cultural dining experience.
Fogo is famed for its prix fixe Full Churrasco Experience that offers a continuous selection of premium cuts butchered daily by gaucho chefs, simply seasoned and grilled to create a craveable salty bark, then carved tableside. The naturally gluten-free Market Table offers a selection of seasonal salads, charcuterie, exotic fruit, superfoods and more. From celebratory to everyday occasions,
Fogo provides selections for every daypart, including All-Day Happy Hour at Bar
Fogo, Weekday Lunch, Dinner, and Weekend Brazilian Brunch. Guests can enhance their experience with offerings ranging from a shareable Wagyu New York Strip, South American wines, and more. For locations and to book a reservation to experience the fire of
Fogo, visit
fogo.com.
by Randy Dunbar
Frankie Payne does hair. You can see his hairstyling on Eva Longoria in “Searching for Spain” which will be airing this coming April, on CNN. This will be the follow-up to “Searching for Mexico”, which will also air in April of this year. But when Frankie is not off with some celebrity making them look good, he paints.
Frankie Payne is a Los Angeles based artist specializing in vibrant portraiture. His works, painted entirely in acrylic, capture a range of subjects inspired by Frankie’s fascination with celebrity and charismatic faces. Most of his work is done on small format canvases and captures the dynamic essence of the subject often through vibrant colors and dramatic lighting. Each painting tells a story on its own, but the paintings, often displayed in clusters, create layered montages of expression and intrigue.
Frankie grew up in the Los Angeles harbor town of San Pedro. He was close enough to the shining allure of LA’s glamorous entertainment industry that, at an early age, he sought to immerse himself in this seductive world of beauty and cache. It was here that Frankie was inspired to launch his career as a hair stylist and would go on to build a successful career styling the trusses of many famous celebrities. But Frankie was also captivated by pop art, enthralled by other artists whose work reflected fascination with popular culture. Artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Keith Haring intrigued him for their subjects, playfulness, and unapologetic uses of bright colors.
Frankie’s early works were more primitive, painting caricatured faces in blocks of color and form, which more closely drew their style inspiration from the early pop artists.
Prior to painting portraits, Frankie’s early works were more primitive, painting caricatured faces in blocks of color and form, which more closely drew their style inspiration from the early pop artists. It was during the Covid Pandemic that Frankie began exploring more articulated portraits, interpreting photographs with more lifelike attention to detail and sophisticated brushwork. Most of Frankie’s paintings are small formats, in the range of 8” x 8” or 10” x 10”, which present as little gems of expression. He has explored larger formats going as large as a 48” x 48” portrait of David Bowie, but for now prefers the intimacy of the smaller size.
Frankie works from his home studio in the Fairfax district of Los Angeles, where he often paints side by side with his husband Don Reich, guarded closely by their goofy pup Zoey. Here, his work is often on display lining the walls with a thousand eyes. Frankie has had two solo shows since the pandemic entitled “FACETIME” which were held at their home studio. An upcoming show is scheduled in Palm Springs on April 12, 2025, at Big Mike Art – Gallery & Studio. But works can be viewed in Los Angeles by appointment and any may be purchased.
Frankie’s portraits hang in homes around the world and across the country. Some celebrity portraits adorn the walls of the actual subjects. Frankie has also done custom portraits of individuals on commission, honoring family members or friends as personal commemorations.
For more Frankie Art visit https://frankiepayneart.com/
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 Randy Dunbar
The Original Pantry Café, commonly known as The Pantry, was a legendary diner in downtown Los Angeles that had been serving customers since 1924 and now is closed, for good. Founded by Dewey Logan, the restaurant quickly became known for its generous portions, no-nonsense service, and classic American comfort food.One of its most famous features is its claim to have never closed—not even for a single day—until 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic forced a temporary shutdown. Before that, The Pantry had been open 24/7 for nearly a century, earning a reputation as a go-to spot for night owls, early risers, and everyone in between.Over the years, The Pantry has remained a cultural landmark, frequented by celebrities, politicians, and locals alike. It is now owned by former Los Angeles mayor Richard Riordan, who took over in the 1980s and preserved its old-school charm. Known for its rustic interior, cash-only policy, and famous sourdough bread, The Pantry remains an enduring symbol of L.A.’s rich dining history. The Original Pantry Café, closed permanently on Sunday, March 2, 2025. The closure resulted from a labor dispute between the Richard J. Riordan Trust, which owns the café, and Unite Here Local 11, the union representing its workers. The trust, managing the estate of former LA Mayor Richard Riordan, announced plans to sell the property, leading to conflicts over job security and union representation. Despite efforts to negotiate, the parties couldn’t reach an agreement, culminating in the café’s closure after more than a century of continuous operation.
Sitting on the corner of South Figueroa St. and 9th Street, people would line-up daily for their dose of high carbohydrates. Generous portions of breakfast steaks and chops, with gravy and biscuits got the day started. Dinner was every kind of steak imaginable — Again served with gravy, biscuits, French fries and mashed potatoes. It was a feast and made the usual long wait in line worth it.
There has been dizzy amount of closings as of late:
-
Bar Chelou (Pasadena, CA) – A beloved local establishment that shut down permanently following the Eaton Fire, which caused widespread displacement and community dispersion.
-
Sage (Echo Park, Los Angeles, CA) – A plant-based restaurant that closed after 14 years of service.
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Catch Steak (West Hollywood, CA) – A notable steakhouse that closed its doors recently.
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Piknik (Echo Park, Los Angeles, CA) – A restaurant that ceased operations recently.
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Amacita (Culver City, CA) – Chef Josef Centeno’s Tex-Mex spot that closed its doors, with hints of future evolution.
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Manzke (Los Angeles, CA) – A Michelin-starred restaurant offering a contemporary style blending French techniques with Californian influences and Asian notes, closed due to increasing costs and financial pressures.
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Taco María (Costa Mesa, CA) – A Michelin-starred Mexican restaurant that closed with plans to relocate to a larger space.
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Side Pie (Altadena, CA) – A pizza restaurant that began as a pop-up and later moved to a commercial space, destroyed in the Eaton Fire.
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Maude (Beverly Hills, CA) – A Michelin-starred restaurant by Chef Curtis Stone, closed to allow focus on other ventures.
These closures reflect the challenges faced by the restaurant industry in Southern California, including financial pressures, natural disasters, and evolving business strategies.
by June Miller Richards
First-Ever “Jazz Girls Day” in California To Take Place at Idyllwild Arts Academy on Sunday, March 2, 2025
California is about to witness a historic celebration of music and empowerment as Idyllwild Arts Academy hosts its very first Jazz Girls Day. Set against the stunning backdrop of the academy’s mountain campus, this free, daylong clinic — running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, March 2 — is dedicated to female-identifying improvising musicians between the ages of 10 and 18.
Originally founded by Dr. Colleen Clark in 2021 and supported through her role at the University of South Carolina, Jazz Girls Day aims to bridge the gender gap in jazz, a genre historically dominated by men. The initiative offers a dynamic blend of masterclasses, jam sessions and a live concert, ensuring that young participants of all experience levels are welcomed and challenged in a supportive environment — all without the pressure of an audition.
Dr. Clark’s initiative aims to inspire students across the country, and while it’s already landed in many other states, this will be its first time in California amidst her ongoing vision to help cohost a Jazz Girls Day event in all 50 states by 2030. The program puts the spotlight on the future of women in jazz and aims to repair the disparities.
Alex McLaughlin, the newly appointed director of the Jazz Program at Idyllwild Arts Academy, shares his excitement: “Idyllwild Arts is thrilled to be the first in California to host Jazz Girls Day. This event is a wonderful opportunity for young musicians to explore their creativity, learn from some of the best in the business and connect with peers who share their passion for jazz. We encourage families, teachers, mentors and friends to support these talented girls as they embark on this musical journey.”
McLaughlin also noted that research presented at the recent Jazz Education Network (JEN) Conference revealed that participants in Jazz Girls Day are more likely to continue pursuing their musical interests — especially after experiencing the unique opportunity to perform with an all-female band. This transformative experience not only builds musical skills but also fosters a deeper, more confident perspective on what it means to be a musician.
Join Idyllwild Arts Academy (52500 Temecula Rd #38, Idyllwild-Pine Cove, CA) on March 2, 2025, for a day of inspiration, learning and community that promises to empower the next generation of jazz musicians.
Registration is still open, and interested participants and their supporters can sign up at Idyllwild Arts Academy’s Jazz Girls Day event page.
by Randy Dunbar
The Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show, held on February 22–23, 2025, at the Los Angeles Convention Center, continued its tradition of connecting travel enthusiasts with industry experts and destinations from around the globe. Established as a premier event in the travel industry, this annual show offers attendees the opportunity to explore over 450 destinations, engage with tour operators, cruise lines, and travel providers, and gain insights to plan their next adventure.
The event attracts a diverse audience, including seasoned travelers, industry professionals, and those seeking inspiration for their next journey. Attendees have the chance to participate in educational seminars, cultural performances, and interactive exhibits, making it a comprehensive experience for all who are passionate about travel.
The convention is wacky. Laid out geographically, one row is Asia, one row is African Safari’s. It is crowded. People line up to greet Rick Steves and get an autograph or chat with Josh Gates, the renowned explorer and host of Discovery Channel’s “Expedition Unknown,”. One interesting attendee was a Cybertruck. The Cybertruck’s futuristic design was of interest, but it also encouraged some negative remarks by people passing by. Japan seemed to own the lionshare of real estate with a significant amount of exhibitions complete with exhibitors in costume.
A highlight of the show is the appearance of renowned travel celebrities who share their expertise and experiences. This year’s lineup featured Rick Steves, host and CEO of “Rick Steves’ Europe”; Pauline Frommer, editorial director of Frommer’s Travel Guides; and Phil Rosenthal, host of “Somebody Feed Phil.” Their presentations offered valuable travel tips, destination recommendations, and personal anecdotes, enriching the experience for all attendees.
The Los Angeles Travel & Adventure Show continues to serve as a vital platform for fostering connections between travelers and the travel industry, inspiring exploration, and promoting cultural understanding.
by Randy Dunbar
The Fahey/Klein Gallery is honored to present Reverie, photographs by Arthur Elgort. To celebrate his
long career, this exhibition showcases Elgort’s spontaneous energy through expertly crafted
photographs that have the unforced look of a personal snapshot.
Born in New York City in 1940, Elgort discovered his passion for photography after initially studying
painting at Hunter College. Finding the solitary nature of painting unfulfilling, he turned to photography
and soon found his calling. His early work capturing ballet dancers in motion laid the foundation for his
signature aesthetic: natural, unposed, and full of life. In 1971, his breakthrough came when British
Vogue published one of his images, launching a career that would redefine the industry.
At a time when fashion photography was dominated by rigid, studio-bound compositions, Elgort
introduced a fresh, relaxed perspective. He encouraged models to move freely, embraced natural light,
and brought his subjects into real-world settings—whether bustling city streets, sunlit gardens, or
windswept beaches. His work captured fashion as it was meant to be worn: in motion, alive, and
exuding energy.
“Taking pictures is what I love and I like my subjects to be varied, a little bit of everything – fashion, jazz,
ballet, my kids, landscapes, and even ‘street’ photography. I never want my work to be stuck in one
category. Fashion might be what sells, but a girl on a subway could be fashion, a jazz musician in a club
could be fashion, and a ballerina at the barre could be too. I’ve always like to integrate all of my interests
into my photos and I think that’s reflected in this exhibit of nearly 50 years of my work.”
– Arthur Elgort
Over the past five decades, Arthur Elgort has not only become one of the most celebrated and imitated
photographers in the world, but he has also redefined what fashion photography could be. From his
iconic Vogue covers to his influential luxury-brand campaigns, his images remain as fresh and relevant
today as ever. Reverie offers a rare opportunity to experience the breadth of his vision—a legacy that
continues to inspire and shape the future of photography.
Arthur Elgort:
Reverie
March 6 through May 3, 2025
Exhibition Reception: Thursday, March 6th
Fahey/Klein Gallery 148 N. La Brea Avenue Los Angeles CA 90036
Tel: 323-934-2250
www.faheykleingallery.com
by Dennis Richardson
Los Angeles, Jan. 27, 2025 –
Sony Honda Mobility America (SHMA) proudly announces its partnership with the FireAid benefit concert, a one-night-only event bringing together the biggest names in entertainment for an evening of music and solidarity. The concert, dedicated to rebuilding communities devastated by wildfires, will take place on January 30 at the Intuit Dome and Kia Forum, with a global livestream for audiences around the world. Demonstrating its commitment to supporting Los Angeles communities affected by wildfires, SHMA will also spotlight its groundbreaking AFEELA 1 vehicle at the event with exclusive listening experiences.
Photo courtesy of Sony Honda Mobility.
The event promises a night of unforgettable performances to support critical recovery initiatives in Los Angeles including: Billie Eilish, Earth, Wind & Fire, Gracie Abrams, Jelly Roll, Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, Lil Baby, Olivia Rodrigo, Peso Pluma, Rod Stewart, Stevie Wonder, Sting, and Tate McRae playing at Intuit Dome. Alanis Morissette, Anderson. Paak, Dave Matthews and John Mayer, Dawes, Graham Nash, Green Day, John Fogerty, Joni Mitchell, No Doubt, P!nk, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Stephen Stills, Stevie Nicks, and The Black Crowes will be performing at the Kia Forum.
Contributions made to FireAid in connection with the FireAid benefit concert, and other direct donations, will be distributed under the advisement of the Annenberg Foundation. The Annenberg Foundation, with decades of philanthropic leadership in the community, including rapid response, will help coordinate a team to direct funds for the greatest impact. Donations will support immediate relief and long-term initiatives to prevent future fire disasters across Southern California In addition, 100% of ticket purchases will go to benefit FireAid relief efforts, with all venue and ticketing service fees waived for this event.
As a mobility technology company dedicated to advancing sustainable innovation, SHMA’s partnership with FireAid underscores its sustainability vision to Moving People, building the way to a sustainable society. By showcasing the AFEELA 1, SHMA highlights its vision of a future where technology and community impact are seamlessly intertwined.
“Sony Honda Mobility America is honored to support FireAid’s vital work in rebuilding and healing communities affected by the Los Angeles wildfires. Just as Sony has supported music activities for many years, we are delighted to support the LA community through music. As we showcase the AFEELA 1 , we reaffirm our commitment to leveraging technology for the greater good, inspiring meaningful progress both on and off the road.” Shugo Yamaguchi, President and CEO, Sony Honda Mobility of America Inc.
Fans attending the event will also be able to experience the new AFEELA 1, making it a fully immersive celebration of mobility and resilience.
The FireAid benefit concert will be broadcast and streamed live globally across a vast range of platforms, radio broadcast and online streaming services ensuring global audiences can join the cause including: Amazon Music/Prime Video, Apple Music, the AppleTV app, DIRECTV, Disney+/Hulu, Facebook/Instagram, iHeartRadio, KTLA+, Max, Netflix/Tudum, Paramount+, Peacock/NBC News Now, SiriusXM’s exclusive “LIFE with John Mayer” channel, SoundCloud, TikTok, Veeps, and YouTube. In addition, Select AMC Theatre locations will host screenings of the event. Serving as the national audio partner, iHeartRadio will leverage its vast network of over 860 radio stations, digital platforms, and the iHeartRadio app to amplify the initiative and connect audiences nationwide.
For additional information about FireAid, please visit
FireAidLA.org.
This information is current as of the time of the announcement. Details may change without prior notice due to various circumstances.
About AFEELA
“AFEELA,” which embodies the concept of “FEEL” at the core of the mobility experience envisioned by Sony Honda Mobility, represents an interactive relationship where people “feel” mobility as an intelligent entity, and mobility “feels” people and society using advanced technologies such as sensing and networking. The first model to be released under the brand, AFEELA 1, is scheduled for official launch in California, USA, by the end of 2025.
About Sony Honda Mobility of America Inc.
Sony Honda Mobility of America Inc. is a subsidiary of Sony Honda Mobility Inc., a Japanese mobility tech company established in 2022 as a joint venture between Sony Group Corporation and Honda Motor Co., Ltd. By combining Sony’s technological prowess and Honda’s automotive expertise, SHM aims to lead innovation in the industry through joint development and sales of high-value-added mobility products and mobility-related services. For more information, please visit us at
https://www.shm-afeela.com or follow us on
Facebook,
Instagram,
X or
LinkedIn.
by Dennis Richardson
Cowritten by Anthony C. Stafford
2025 started off with the unimaginable, as parts of the greater Los Angeles area fell victim to a firestorm. This perfect storm of raging, hurricane-force winds, blinding smoke, quick-moving flames, and sizzling walls of embers brought large-scale destruction to the Pacific Palisades and Altadena. However, other areas including Ventura County, San Fernando and Santa Clarita Valleys, and even as far south as San Diego, have suffered from continued fire weather in the following days. In what has been an overwhelmingly dry rainy season, Southern California has gone approximately 300 days without rain — until this past weekend. Now, the city sees its neighbors, families, and friends all across the state come together to heal, rebuild, and show their support for those affected by the fires.
For the firefighters and law enforcement who gave their all, the region has shown eternal gratitude. And for the victims whose lives are forever changed, immense empathy and encouragement will pour for months to come, because we are all in this effort together. Below are community care initiatives put together in order to help those impacted by the recent fires.
The Goodwell Company
Sustainable hat brand, The Goodwell Company launched a 90-day campaign with a strong commitment that shows their dedication to the city. Through April 15, 2025, The Goodwell Company is donating 100% of proceeds from sales to the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation, which helps secure vital equipment and funds critical programs to ensure LAFD can continue to save lives.
The GoodWell Company is a Los Angeles-based sustainable hat brand dedicated to producing eco-friendly, stylish products while supporting meaningful causes.
Staying true to their mission “to create sustainable, high-quality products that not only look good but also do good for the planet and our community,” Co-Founder Sam Braig sets an example of what community care looks like when we all come together. “We believe in giving back to the community that inspires us and using business as a force for good,” The Goodwell Company states. Shop their sustainable hat collection at their website.
All photos courtesy of The Goodwell Company.
All photos courtesy of Malibu Beach Inn.
Malibu Beach Inn
Malibu Beach Inn is committed to providing refuge, rebuilding efforts, and ongoing support after the devastating fire and their own close calls twice in the last few months.
Having reopened on January 24, the hotel came forward with a series of impactful initiatives in place. These include discounted rates for short or long-term stays, extensive cleaning & remediation protocols to ensure guest safety, and mental health support in collaboration with CURE:
- Malibu Beach Inn will be offering discounted room rates for short or long-term stays to those displaced or evacuated, starting at 35% off. Simply call the hotel directly at 310-651-7777 or 1-800-4-MALIBU, and the team will work with guests to provide a place of safety and comfort during this unparalleled time. To support the LA dining community, Carbon Beach Club will offer a 20% discount on food to anyone affected by the wildfires in this community and looking to support the hotel’s recovery.
- All guests of Malibu Beach Inn are afforded membership-level access to CURE Wellness Center’s fitness and spa facilities, in additional to mental health and telehealth resources. Full membership access includes use of fitness and wellness areas including sauna, cold plunge and other wellness experiences to provide comfort and recluse.
- Malibu Beach Inn has implemented several precautionary measures to ensure the safety of its guests. These include discarding all on-site food and bringing in fresh supplies, using advanced equipment such as the HEPA-AIRE H2KM Negative Air Machine to remove microscopic ash and fire particles from the air, employing Hydroxyl Generators to eliminate airborne pollutants, and professionally cleaning all 3,600 pieces of linen. Additionally, the property has installed Levoit Air Purifiers in each of the 47 guest rooms to provide further peace of mind.
- In response to the devastating wildfires affecting Los Angeles County, Mani Brothers Real Estate Group has announced a $50,000 donation to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. The funds will support the Fire Department’s Emergency Operations, providing critical resources to manage and respond to ongoing wildfire threats.
- Guests can support LA Restaurant Week at Carbon Beach Club with a specially curated Dine LA lunch and dinner menu, available from January 24 to February 7. Reservations can be made via Open Table
Blu Jam Café
Even some of our favorite restuarants are taking part and doing what they can to support our community. This February, Blu Jam Café, one of Los Angeles’ most popular spots for breakfast and brunch, is sharing the love—not just for Valentine’s Day, but all month long — a testament to their love of the city and vice versa. During February, Blu Jam Café’s signature Crunchy French Toast is getting a festive twist, served in a heart shape and topped with whipped cream cheese, strawberry jam, fresh berries, and their signature vanilla sauce.
For every Heart-Shaped Crunchy French Toast sold, $2 will be donated to the California Wildfire Relief Fund, making it a delicious way to indulge while giving back.
This limited-time special will be available at all six Blu Jam Café locations throughout February.
Photo courtesy of Blu Jam Café.
La Maison Valmont Skincare
Luxury skincare innovators, Valmont Skincare understands the need to support LA, which is why they announced today, January 28, their pledge to support local artists affected by the LA fire devastation. Art and creativity is one of the core values of Valmont Group.
Photos courtesy of La Maison Valmont Skincare.
Like all La Maison Valmont boutiques worldwide, the space provides an immersive experience exhibiting the intersection of art and beauty, offering guests luxurious skincare treatments as well as the opportunity to discover the works of established and emerging artists local to the area. Therefore, the Guillon Family, owners of Valmont, have pledged $110,000 through the LA Maison Valmont Beverly Hills boutique (opened in July 2024) to support 11 local artists in hopes the donation will help artists rebuild, create, and thrive once again.
Sonäge Skincare
Sonäge Skincare whose mission advocates for “a holistic lifestyle, changing the way we treat our bodies to feel good for our age,” will be distributing 500 personal care packages to those affected by the LA fires. The bags include a face cleanser, SPF, and Vitamin C Serum. Victims who have been directly affected by the recent fires can fill out Sonäge’s Google form and pick up from their store at 3213 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica.
Photo courtesy of Sonäge Skincare.
Cannabis Companies Chip In
Embarc Dispensary
Embarc dispensary, with rest of the cannabis industry, is jumping in to help. Embarc has launched a GoFundMe, bringing the industry together to support fire relief. Their own donation kicked things off with $16,000 from Embarc Dispensary. In addition, on January 21 Embarc began collecting goods at all of its 16 stores statewide. This allows its customers an opportunity to contribute from all over the state. Use Embarc’s dispensary locator to find your closest location.
Gelato Water
Based in San Diego, Gelato Water immediately sprung into action as the news of the fires made its way to the local tv stations. Gelato Water co-founder and CEO George Sadler, saw the news and knew he couldn’t sit idly by. So far, Gelato Water has donated over 100,000 cans of their spring water to fire relief efforts that include donations to The Dream Center, Pasadena Civic Center, and going directly to first responders stationed outside the fires to give them water as they rest from fire fighting. Gelato Water is the sister company of Gelato Canna Co., one of CA’s fastest growing cannabis companies.
The Artist Tree
The LA-based dispensary and consumption lounge has always put community first. Over the weekend The Artist Tree set up donation boxes at their LA locations where customers could drop off essential items for those affected by the fires. All items will be donated to Anderson Munger YMCA in Koreatown. The Artist Tree is currently planning additional fire relief efforts and will be ready to announce them in the coming weeks.
Dr. Greenthumb’s, West LA
The doctor is in. B Real, aka Dr. Greenthumb, of legendary hip hop group Cypress Hill, is hosting a donation drive at the West LA location of his namesake dispensary, Dr. Greenthumb’s. All items will be donated to various shelters throughout B Real’s LA hometown. Collected items included feminine care products, baby wipes, clothes, blankets and more.
Emerald Village
Victims of recent fires in Southern California who have lost cannabis-related accessories and devices are now receiving a helping hand, thanks to Emerald Village West Hollywood, Los Angeles NORML and the Cannabis Chamber of Commerce. On Thursday, January 23, 2025, Los Angeles NORML and the Cannabis Chamber began collecting new, unused devices and accessories at their January Mixer at Baja Cantina, 311 Washington Boulevard, Marina Del Rey, from 5 to 9 PM.
On Saturday, January 25, Emerald Village activated six distribution sites for victims of recent fires in Southern California to collect accessories and devices that may have been left behind during recent evacuations. Residents evacuated from the Palisades, Eaton, Sunset and other fires are welcome to visit any of six distribution sites to choose from among donated devices and accessories, ranging from rolling trays and papers, batteries, pipes, devices and more. Distribution sites include:
- The Artist Tree West Hollywood: 8625 Santa Monica Boulevard
- Calma West Hollywood: 1155 N La Brea
- MedMen West Hollywood: 8208 Santa Monica Boulevard
- PleasureMed: 7715 Santa Monica Boulevard
- Urbn Leaf West Hollywood: 8477 Sunset Boulevard
- The Woods WeHo: 8271 Santa Monica Boulevard
“The Artist Tree is so grateful to join forces with our fellow West Hollywood cannabis businesses to help our friends and neighbors who have been impacted by the wildfires,” said Lauren Fontein, Co-founder and Chief Compliance Officer of The Artist Tree. “While we’ve been active in collecting essential supplies and monetary donations for wildfire victims, we felt this cannabis device donation campaign was a unique way we could serve our community and help fire victims replace everyday items.”
In addition, The Artist Tree and The Woods WeHo are extending special programs to medical patient evacuees: Through February 28, 2025, medical patient evacuees will receive free entry to the cannabis consumption lounges at The Artist Tree and The Woods, and qualified medical patients with Medical ID are will receive West Hollywood resident patient discounts.
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 Randy Dunbar
The Oscars, officially known as the Academy Awards, are nearly 96 years old. The first ceremony was held on May 16, 1929, at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel in Los Angeles. Here’s a bit of history:
Origins:
The awards were conceived by Louis B. Mayer, head of MGM Studios, as a way to honor outstanding achievements in the film industry and to help improve its public image during a time when Hollywood faced scandals and criticism. The awards also aimed to foster unity among industry professionals.
The First Ceremony:
- The inaugural event honored films released between 1927 and 1928.
- It was a private dinner with about 270 guests in attendance.
- Tickets cost $5, and the ceremony lasted just 15 minutes.
- The winners were announced three months earlier, so there wasn’t much suspense like today.
The Statuette:
The famous Oscar statuette was designed by Cedric Gibbons and sculpted by George Stanley. The statuette depicts a knight holding a sword, standing on a reel of film. It’s made of gold-plated bronze and is one of the most recognizable trophies in the world.
The Name “Oscar”:
There’s no definitive story behind the name, but one popular legend is that Margaret Herrick, the Academy librarian, remarked the statue resembled her uncle Oscar. The nickname stuck and became official in 1939.
Growth and Prestige:
Over the years, the Academy Awards evolved into a major televised event. The first broadcast was on radio in 1930, and it debuted on television in 1953. Today, it’s a global celebration of cinema, drawing millions of viewers from around the world.
The Oscars have seen incredible moments, controversies, and milestones, making it a cultural phenomenon and one of the highest honors in the entertainment industry. The upcoming 96th Oscars will be held on March 10, 2025.
BEST PICTURE
“Anora” (Neon)
A Cre Films Production
Alex Coco, Samantha Quan and Sean Baker, Producers
“The Brutalist” (A24)
An A24/Brookstreet Pictures/Kaplan Morrison Production
Nominees to be determined
“A Complete Unknown” (Searchlight)
A Veritas Entertainment Group/White Water/Range/Picture Company/Turnpike Films Production
Fred Berger, James Mangold and Alex Heineman, Producers
“Conclave” (Focus Features)
A FilmNation Entertainment/Indian Paintbrush/House Production
Tessa Ross, Juliette Howell and Michael A. Jackman, Producers
“Dune: Part Two” (Warner Bros.)
A Legendary Pictures Production
Mary Parent, Cale Boyter, Tanya Lapointe and Denis Villeneuve, Producers
“Emilia Pérez” (Netflix)
A Netflix/Page 114/Why Not Productions/Pathé/France 2 Cinéma/Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello
in association with Library Pictures International Production
Nominees to be determined
“I’m Still Here” (Sony Pictures Classics)
A VideoFilmes/RT Features/Mact Production
Nominees to be determined
“Nickel Boys” (Orion Pictures/Amazon MGM Studios)
A Plan B Entertainment/Anonymous Content/Louverture Films Production
Nominees to be determined
“The Substance” (Mubi)
A Match Factory/Working Title/Blacksmith/A Good Story Production
Nominees to be determined
“Wicked” (Universal)
A Universal Pictures/Marc Platt Production
Marc Platt, Producer
ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE
ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE
ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE
ANIMATED FEATURE FILM
NOMINEES
Nominees to be determined
Kelsey Mann and Mark Nielsen
Adam Elliot and Liz Kearney
WALLACE & GROMIT: VENGEANCE MOST FOWL
Nominees to be determined
Chris Sanders and Jeff Hermann
ANIMATED SHORT FILM
NOMINEES
Nicolas Keppens and Brecht Van Elslande
IN THE SHADOW OF THE CYPRESS
Shirin Sohani and Hossein Molayemi
Daisuke Nishio and Takashi Washio
Nina Gantz and Stienette Bosklopper
Loïc Espuche and Juliette Marquet
COSTUME DESIGN
Janty Yates and Dave Crossman
DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM
NOMINEES
Shiori Ito, Eric Nyari and Hanna Aqvilin
Basel Adra, Rachel Szor, Hamdan Ballal and Yuval Abraham
Brendan Bellomo, Slava Leontyev, Aniela Sidorska and Paula DuPre’ Pesmen
SOUNDTRACK TO A COUP D’ETAT
Johan Grimonprez, Daan Milius and Rémi Grellety
Nominees to be determined
DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM
NOMINEES
Kim A. Snyder and Janique L. Robillard
Smriti Mundhra and Maya Gnyp
Bill Morrison and Jamie Kalven
INSTRUMENTS OF A BEATING HEART
Ema Ryan Yamazaki and Eric Nyari
THE ONLY GIRL IN THE ORCHESTRA
Molly O’Brien and Lisa Remington
INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM
The Seed of the Sacred Fig
MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING
NOMINEES
Mike Marino, David Presto and Crystal Jurado
Julia Floch Carbonel, Emmanuel Janvier and Jean-Christophe Spadaccini
David White, Traci Loader and Suzanne Stokes-Munton
Pierre-Olivier Persin, Stéphanie Guillon and Marilyne Scarselli
Frances Hannon, Laura Blount and Sarah Nuth
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE)
Clément Ducol and Camille
John Powell and Stephen Schwartz
MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG)
NOMINEES
from Emilia Pérez; Music by Clément Ducol and Camille; Lyric by Clément Ducol, Camille and Jacques Audiard
from The Six Triple Eight; Music and Lyric by Diane Warren
from Sing Sing; Music and Lyric by Abraham Alexander and Adrian Quesada
from Emilia Pérez; Music and Lyric by Camille and Clément Ducol
from Elton John: Never Too Late; Music and Lyric by Elton John, Brandi Carlile, Andrew Watt and Bernie Taupin
PRODUCTION DESIGN
NOMINEES
Production Design: Judy Becker; Set Decoration: Patricia Cuccia
Production Design: Suzie Davies; Set Decoration: Cynthia Sleiter
Production Design: Patrice Vermette; Set Decoration: Shane Vieau
Production Design: Craig Lathrop; Set Decoration: Beatrice Brentnerová
Production Design: Nathan Crowley; Set Decoration: Lee Sandales
LIVE ACTION SHORT FILM
NOMINEES
Sam Cutler-Kreutz and David Cutler-Kreutz
Adam J. Graves and Suchitra Mattai
Victoria Warmerdam and Trent
Cindy Lee and Darwin Shaw
THE MAN WHO COULD NOT REMAIN SILENT
Nebojša Slijepčević and Danijel Pek
SOUND
NOMINEES
Tod A. Maitland, Donald Sylvester, Ted Caplan, Paul Massey and David Giammarco
Gareth John, Richard King, Ron Bartlett and Doug Hemphill
Erwan Kerzanet, Aymeric Devoldère, Maxence Dussère, Cyril Holtz and Niels Barletta
Simon Hayes, Nancy Nugent Title, Jack Dolman, Andy Nelson and John Marquis
Randy Thom, Brian Chumney, Gary A. Rizzo and Leff Lefferts
VISUAL EFFECTS
NOMINEES
Eric Barba, Nelson Sepulveda-Fauser, Daniel Macarin and Shane Mahan
Luke Millar, David Clayton, Keith Herft and Peter Stubbs
Paul Lambert, Stephen James, Rhys Salcombe and Gerd Nefzer
KINGDOM OF THE PLANET OF THE APES
Erik Winquist, Stephen Unterfranz, Paul Story and Rodney Burke
Pablo Helman, Jonathan Fawkner, David Shirk and Paul Corbould
WRITING (ADAPTED SCREENPLAY)
NOMINEES
Screenplay by James Mangold and Jay Cocks
Screenplay by Peter Straughan
Screenplay by Jacques Audiard; In collaboration with Thomas Bidegain, Léa Mysius and Nicolas Livecchi
Screenplay by RaMell Ross & Joslyn Barnes
Screenplay by Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar; Story by Clint Bentley, Greg Kwedar, Clarence Maclin, John “Divine G” Whitfield
WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY)
Written by Brady Corbet, Mona Fastvold
Written by Jesse Eisenberg
Written by Moritz Binder, Tim Fehlbaum; Co-Written by Alex David
Written by Coralie Fargeat
by Niki Smart
Combining her studies in Ayurveda, Aromatherapy, and Organic Skincare Formulation, Alix Clo brings you an evolving collection of highly therapeutic, age-inclusive, natural skincare products, that not only work, but also feel amazing.
This new skin care line, specially formulated for the 40+ age group, is branded as Radiance at Any Age. As Alix says “I started Alix Clo out of a desire to represent different faces (more than 20 years old) in a beauty industry with an oppressive “anti aging” narrative.”
One of the top sellers in the Alix Clo line is Ceremony. This is an oil based serum that readily absorbs into your skin, contains zero toxins, improves your complexion, repairs your skin barrier, and boosts your collagen. Ceremony is made with a cell-renewing blend of Bakuchiol (a plant-based retinol alternative), Papaya, Orchid, Black Raspberry and Australian Sandalwood..in other words, it is packed with antioxidants and Vitamins C & E.
Designed with menopause in mind, Alix Clo’s Ceremony promises to deliver a dewey glow in 30 seconds.
All of that sounds pretty fantastic, doesn’t it? So when I received my sample in the mail, I was super excited to try it. Who doesn’t want a skincare product that promises cell turnover, skin rejuvenation, and healthy glowing skin? I know I do.
I have to be a little careful with what I put on my face as I tend to have rosacea flare ups. This light-weight oil was not a problem for my sensitive skin at all, plus, it feels simply delicious. Your skin is instantly soft, moisturized, and the promise of dewey skin is real.
After a few weeks, I could absolutely feel the difference in moisture retention and I only used Ceremony once a day– (you can use it twice a day if you like).
I further received a powerful little jar of Wonder. This serum delivers deep hydration and improves elasticity.
It’s enriched with ashwagandha extract, cold-pressed tamanu seed oil, amla seed oil, and anise. Wonder is a solid serum, gentle cleanser and a repairing face mask all in one. One again, I was thrilled with the results of this skincare product.
In an industry that markets youth as the ultimate version of beauty, it is Alix Clo’s hope to transform our relationship with aging. As Alix likes to say “Age Beautiful“.
Being of a certain age, I support this philosophy. We may not all be young but we do all deserve to be included. My skin has different needs than it did 20 years ago, and I appreciate a company that gives older women a seat at the table.
For more information please visit The Alix Clo Website
Follow Alix Clo on Instagram
