‘L.A. GOAL’ Hosts Annual Art Show Celebrating Unique Artists

‘L.A. GOAL’ Hosts Annual Art Show Celebrating Unique Artists

Los Angeles, CA  L.A. GOAL presented its Annual Art Show on October 23rd. It’s a non-profit committed to creating opportunities and equity for adults with developmental disabilities so they can live more fulfilling lives. The theme of this year’s art show was “In a Different Way.” It celebrated the unique differences of each artist and the work they did during the last 18 months, over the pandemic.

Michael B, one of the artists who presented his work said, “My favorite part about being in the studio is working with ceramics and paintings because it is fun.”

L.A. GOAL provides its members with a variety of programs to help them in every aspect of their lives: work, health, relationships, creative expression and fun. The nonprofit based in Culver city offers vocational training as well as paid employment at the nonprofit.

Inside Our Productions is a professional art studio launched by L.A GOAL in 1991 in order to employ Members and Artists and sell their artwork. The organization’s vision is that when people’s core needs are met and their talent recognized, they can grow, express themselves, and engage in meaningful work.

This nonprofit benefits greatly from support by the local community in order to continue its mission of providing opportunities to adults with developmental disabilities to live more fulfilling lives.

If you want to learn more about L.A. GOAL and contribute to their work, click on the link here.

If you wish to volunteer, click on the link here.

About L.A. GOAL

L.A. GOAL is a non-profit organization that partners with adults with developmental disabilities and their support networks to assist them in living more fulfilling lives. Our goal is to create more opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities to thrive across all aspects of life, have meaningful relationships, and feel a sense of belonging within society. We continuously strive to understand our Members’ needs, how they evolve over time, and how they are affected by shifting societal dynamics and inequities. We help the public see beyond ability or disability to honor the core being of our Members and ourselves.

L.A. Activists Come Together to Support Women’s Reproductive Rights

L.A. Activists Come Together to Support Women’s Reproductive Rights

Los Angeles, CA. Women’s March Foundation hosted the March for Reproductive Rights on October 2nd. Women’s March Foundation is a non-profit, women-led movement bringing together people of all genders, ages, races, and backgrounds. In response to Texas’ six-week abortion ban, which allows individuals to sue abortion providers and patients, the foundation calls upon L.A. activists to take to the streets to support women’s reproductive rights.

People of all ages, genders, ethnicities, and backgrounds attend the march and unite to spread reproductive justice across the country.  

Marchers proudly display their signs and views.

Signs reading “Reproductive Rights are Human Rights” and “We Need to Talk About the Elephant in the Womb” are held high as marchers go from Pershing Square in Downtown L.A. to City Hall. 

UCLA student, Lauren, talks about her experience at the march: “It is great to see not only women, but people of all ages and genders coming together to fight for what should be basic rights. We still have so far to go in regards to reproductive justice, but seeing all the support here gives me hope for change and a better future where women are the sole masters of their bodies.”

Creative homemade posters and signs address the issues surrounding reproductive rights.

Speaking at the march in front of City Hall is a wide range of people from health care providers to celebrities to politicians. All calling for a change in legislation and equal reproductive rights for all individuals. 

Raven Simone speaks about the importance of women’s rights and LGBTQ+ rights.

Partnering with other non-profit organizations like Planned Parenthood, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Health, and SisterSong, Women’s March hopes to get the attention of the Supreme Court before they reconvene on October 4th. 

For more information on the march and to view the full panel of speakers, visit the Women’s March Foundation Facebook page.

About Women’s March Foundation

Women’s March Foundation (WMF) is a women-led, non-profit 501c3 organization with no affiliation with Women’s March Inc. As an independent organization, WMF continues to work towards the vision of shared humanity and equity for all, regardless of race, religion, gender identity or sexuality.

About Planned Parenthood

Planned Parenthood delivers vital reproductive health care, sex education, and information to millions of people worldwide. Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit under EIN 13-1644147. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable under the law.

The American Red Cross Provides Safety Tips As California Wildfires Rage

The American Red Cross Provides Safety Tips As California Wildfires Rage

Santa Barbara, CA  The Alisal fire has already caused major damages in Santa Barbara County. Sparked in early October, the wildfire grew to 16,800 acres, destroying Amtrak railroads, closing parts of Highway 101, prompting evacuations, and most recently,  threatening power outages. According to the Country of Santa Barbara, as of October 15th, with cooperative winds and hard work, the fire is 41% contained.

Motorists are reminded that it’s an ongoing firefighting effort and to use caution if driving on the 101. For everyone’s safety, extra law enforcement will be on patrol.

Of the 439 structures threatened, three residences and two outbuildings were destroyed. 1,731 personnel were assigned to the fire.

The Alisal fire joins the long list of fires that have ravaged California this summer. Experts say the climate crisis has created ideal weather conditions for fires to spark and spread at uncontrollable speeds.

One of the organizations that has had an impact with its disaster relief campaign is the American Red Cross. Between June and September, the nonprofit provided over 19,700 overnight stays in emergency lodgings for those affected by fires. The Red Cross also served more than 87,500 meals/snacks and deployed over 1,300 disaster workers.

A Temporary Evacuation Point (TEP) was established for those forced from their homes due to the #AlisalFire in Santa Barbara County at Dos Pueblos High School in Goleta.

Since critical wildfire weather is expected to continue in the west during this fall, these are the safety recommendations that the American Red Cross provides for wildfires:

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO NOW Have access to alerts and notifications so you can monitor conditions and receive instructions from local officials, even during a power outage. Keep track of fires near you so you can be ready to evacuate quickly. You may have only minutes to get out. Register to receive any free emergency alerts from your community. Understand your community’s plan to notify individuals with disabilities.

  • Purchase a battery-powered radio to receive information from local authorities during a power outage.
  • Find an outdoor water source such as a pond, well, even a swimming pool, and have a hose that can reach any area of your property.
  • Create a fire-resistant zone free of leaves, debris or flammable materials for at least 30 feet out from your home.
  • Regularly clean roofs and gutters.
  • Make sure driveway entrances and your house number are clearly marked so fire vehicles can get to your home.
  • Designate a room that can be closed off from outside air. Close all doors and windows. Set up a portable air cleaner to keep indoor pollution levels low when smoky conditions exist.
  • Use fire-resistant materials to build, renovate or make repairs.
  • Post emergency phone numbers by every phone in your house and make sure everyone has those numbers in their cell phones.
  • Download the free Red Cross app “emergency” to help keep you and your loved ones safe with real-time alerts, open Red Cross shelter locations, and safety advice on wildfires and other emergencies.

BE PREPARED TO EVACUATE AT A MOMENT’S NOTICE and obey all evacuation orders from officials. Follow these steps (if time allows):

  • Shut all windows and doors. Remove flammable window shades, curtains and close metal shutters.
  • Move flammable furniture to the center of the room, away from windows and doors.
  • Shut off gas at the meter; turn off pilot lights. Shut off the air conditioning.
  • Gather up flammable items from the exterior of the house and bring them inside (patio furniture, toys, trash cans).
  • Turn off propane tanks. Move propane BBQ appliances away from structures.
  • Don’t leave sprinklers on or water running, they can affect critical water pressure.
  • Back your loaded car into the driveway and keep all doors and windows closed.
  • Ensure your emergency supplies kit is in your vehicle.
  • Locate your pets and take them with you.

Check out their full press release here.

About the American Red Cross

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit on Twitter at @RedCross.

 

Heal the Bay is Taking Action at the Huntington Beach Oil Spill

Heal the Bay is Taking Action at the Huntington Beach Oil Spill

Huntington Beach, CA Heal the Bay works to mobilize LA’s diverse communities to protect coastlines, restore waterways and speak out for clean water policy. The nonprofit has begun to take action on the massive oil spill that occurred starting on October 3rd off the coast of Orange County. 126,000 gallons of crude oil gushed from a seafloor pipe, owned by Amplify Energy, into the ocean.

The oil spill has affected many birds and fish who are washing ashore injured or dead. Seals, dolphins, and other marine mammals are also at great risk of swimming in contaminated water. The oil has also reached the sensitive and rare coastal wetlands at Talbert Marsh, a critical natural environment not only for wildlife habitat but also for improving water quality.

Booms deployed by the City of Huntington Beach at Talbert Wetlands to prevent the further spread of oil.

Heal the Bay is encouraging people to stay away from the spill for their own safety. The Science and Policy team is working on a public call to action with specific policy demands that will be shared on the nonprofit’s blog soon. Aministrators ask that people don’t intervene on their own if they encounter injured or oiled wildlife. Instead, report this to the Oiled Wildlife Care Network at 1-877-823-6926.

An oiled duck at Huntington Beach.

If you wish to volunteer with spill clean-up efforts, sign up with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

About Heal the Bay

Heal the Bay is an environmental nonprofit established in 1985 that is dedicated to making the coastal waters and watersheds in Greater Los Angeles safe, healthy, and clean. We use science, education, community action, and advocacy to fulfill our mission.

 

 

Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Star-Studded Gala Opening Raises Over $11 Million

Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Star-Studded Gala Opening Raises Over $11 Million

Los Angeles, CA. The long-awaited opening of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is here. Doors were flung open to the public on September 30th, but a host of moviemaking movers and shakers enjoyed a preview of the $482 million facilities on September 26th. The evening raised more than $11 million to support the Academy Museum’s access, education, and programming initiatives. Co-chairs were Jason Blum, Ava Duvernay, and Ryan Murphy. At the gala, Cher and Lady Gaga posed for a photo at the museum which is located at 6067 Wilshire Boulevard.

Academy Museum Opening Gala Media Advisory

The celebratory evening included the presentation of the inaugural Vantage Award to Haile Gerima, for his work as a filmmaker who has helped to contextualize and challenge dominant narratives around the cinema. The inaugural Visionary Award was given to Sophia Loren, for her extensive body of work that has advanced the art of cinema. (Photo credit: Stefanie Keenan- Getty Images ©Academy Museum Foundation)

Bob Iger, Annette Bening, and Tom Hanks were also recognized with the Pillar Award for their leadership of the recently completed Campaign for the Academy Museum. Designed by the Haas Brothers, the Pillar Award references the soaring sphere of the Academy Museum and the iconic gold of the Oscar.

The facility is filled with movie-making memorabilia including souvenirs from the sets of iconic productions such as “The Wizard of Oz,” “Alien,” “Star Wars” and “Psycho”. Originally slated for completion four years ago, the new destination for cinephiles has been significantly delayed in its debut by construction delays, key staffing changes, and the covid pandemic.

The event was attended by many notable actors and filmmakers, who came together to support the new museum, which advances the understanding, celebration, and preservation of cinema.

Ava DuVernay, Regina King At the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Opening Gala, September 25, 2021.

Tonya Lewis Lee, Spike Lee, Satchel Lee and Jackson Lee attend the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Opening Gala, September 25, 2021

Jennifer Hudson attends the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Opening Gala, September 25, 2021

Laverne Cox attends the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Opening Gala, September 25, 2021

Lindsey Vonn attends the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Opening Gala, September 25, 2021

Jaime Lee Curtis attends the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Opening Gala, September 25, 2021

Ariana Debose attends the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Opening Gala, September 25, 2021

Co-chair Ryan Murphy and guest Kaia Gerber At the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Opening Gala, September 25, 2021.

Aaron Sorkin and Nicole Kidman attend the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Opening Gala, September 25, 2021

Katie Perry and Olivia Rodrigo At the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Opening Gala, September 25, 2021.

Selma Blaire and Rachel Fleit At the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures: Opening Gala, September 25, 2021.

Here’s a video about the new museum:

From Academy Museum of Motion Pictures:

Generously presented by Rolex—founding supporter and official watch partner of the Academy Museum—with leadership support from J.P. Morgan, who has more than one hundred years of experience in the entertainment industry, the evening raised more than $11 million to support the Academy Museum’s access, education, and programming initiatives. 

NOTABLE ATTENDEES:

Academy Museum Trustees
Arnaud Boetsch, Jason Blum, Laura Dern, Diane von Furstenberg, Olivier de Givenchy, Ray Halbritter, Tom Hanks (and Honoree), Miky Lee, Eva Longoria, Alejandro Ramirez Magaña, Ryan Murphy, Dominic Ng, Katherine Oliver, Ted Sarandos, Jeremy Scott, Kimberly Steward, and Emma Thomas

Academy and Museum Leadership
Academy Museum Director and President Bill Kramer, Academy Museum Chief Artistic and Programming Officer Jacqueline Stewart, Academy Museum COO and General Counsel Brendan Connell, Jr., Academy President and Academy Museum Trustee David Rubin, and Academy CEO and Academy Museum Trustee Dawn Hudson

Gala Partners
Gala co-chairs Ryan Murphy, Jason Blum, and Ava DuVernay, honorees Haile Gerima, Sophia Loren, Bob Iger, and Annette Bening and Tom Hanks

Guests
Academy Museum architect Renzo Piano, J.J. Abrams, Sasha Alexander, Judd Apatow, Robert Armani, Nicole Avant, Angela Bassett, Warren Beatty, Colleen Bell, Halle Berry, Selma Blair, Orlando Bloom, Diego Boneta, Abigail Breslin, Charles Burnett, Ruth Carter, Bob Chapek, Cher, Eva Chow, Clifton Collins, Jr., Laverne Cox, Darren Criss, Benedict Cumberbatch, Jamie Lee Curtis, Julie Dash, Ariana Debose, Jenna Dewan, Ernest R. Dickerson, Barry Diller, Grigor Dimitrov, Ashgar Farhadi, Lady Gaga, Mayor of Los Angeles Eric Garcetti, Kaia Gerber, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Nikolai & Simon Haas, Tiffany Haddish, Rebecca Halls, Colin Hanks, Lydia Hearst, Kathy and Rick Hilton, Jennifer Hudson, Kate Hudson, Van Hunt, Alejandro González Iñárritu, Cheyenne Jackson, Arthur Jafa, Patty Jenkins, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Michael Keaton, Anna Kendrick, Riley Keough, Nicole Kidman, Regina King, Shaka King, Maryse Knight, Spike Lee, Shawn Levy, Adriana Lima, Billie Lourd, Emmanuel “Chivo” Lubezki, Natasha Lyonne, Bob Mackie, Jenna Malone, Frank Marshall, Marlee Matlin, Thuso Mbedu, Max Minghella, Kate and Laura Mulleavy, Kumail Nanjiani, Ruth Negga, Christopher Nolan, Normani, Sarah Paulson, Katy Perry, Arianne Phillips, Edoardo Ponti, Zac Posen, Questlove, Lily Rabe, Issa Rae, Andrea Riseborough, Olivia Rodrigo, MJ Rodriguez, David O. Russell, Meg Ryan, Filippo Scotti, Diana Silvers, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Jurnee Smollett, Aaron Sorkin, Paolo Sorrentino, Morgan Spector, Carly Steel, Holland Taylor, Sean Patrick Thomas, Tessa Thompson, Guillermo del Toro, Gabrielle Union, Lindsey Vonn, Dwyane Wade, John Waters, Rita Wilson, Edgar Wright, Kulapat Yantrasast, and Chloe Zhao.

EVENT ATMOSPHERE:
Like the museum’s Hayao Miyazaki exhibition, the gala is designed as a journey, with décor inspired by the filmmaker’s enchanted worlds. Guests entered the event via a green carpet with large floral installations referencing Miyazaki’s depictions of the natural environment and the exhibition’s immersive Magical Forest. The floral arrangements, along with that tree tunnel that connects the museum’s two terraces, are created by Raúl Àvila Inc.

ADDITIONAL EVENT DETAILS:
Marking the seventh year of a long-term partnership between Piper-Heidsieck and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, Piper-Heidsieck provided the exclusive champagne of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures opening celebrations. Rare Champagne Rosé 2007 and Rare Champagne Brut Millésime 2006 were served at the Opening Gala.

The cocktail hour featured signature drinks created by Diageo included Don Julio Ranch Water, Don Julio Limonada, Tanqueray Negroni, Ketel One Classic Martini, and Johnnie Walker Fuzhou Highball. Various spirits from Diageo’s portfolio were served including Tequila Don Julio 1942, Johnnie Walker Blue Label, Tequila Don Julio Blanco, Tanqueray London Dry Gin, Ketel One Vodka, and Johnnie Walker Black Label.

San Benedetto Natural Water and Sparkling Mineral Water were served at the Gala. Based in Venice, San Benedetto is a 65-year-old Italian family-owned and operated beverage company and the first company to be recognized by Italy’s Ministry of Environment for its leadership and advancements in environmental stewardship.

WHERE:
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, 6067 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles

ABOUT THE ACADEMY MUSEUM:
The Academy Museum is the largest museum in the United States devoted to the arts, sciences, and artists of moviemaking. The museum advances the understanding, celebration, and preservation of cinema through inclusive and accessible exhibitions, screenings, programs, initiatives, and collections. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Renzo Piano and Renzo Piano Building Workshop in collaboration with Gensler as executive architect, the museum’s campus contains the restored and revitalized historic Saban Building—formerly known as the May Company building (1939)—and a soaring spherical addition. Together, these buildings contain 50,000 square feet of exhibition spaces, two state-of-the-art theaters, an education studio, restaurant, retail store, and beautiful public spaces. The museum opens to the public on September 30, 2021.

In-Person Bumble Event Draws Fun Loving Singles Looking for Love and Friends

In-Person Bumble Event Draws Fun Loving Singles Looking for Love and Friends

A Lifestyle Story: Santa Monica, CA. Élephante Beach House was hopping during an in-person meet and greet for Bumble users on September 15th. Sarah Yoho, Brooke Docherty, Mandie Meier, Nicole Mattox, and Jennifer Meseck were on hand to enjoy the sunset. Bumble in-person events are just now starting back up after a pandemic hiatus. All events meet local city CDC guidelines. The dating app partnered with a number of local businesses such as Fia, Élephante Beach House, and more to offer members access to curated date spots paired with complimentary food and beverages.

Jeff Nelson, Nathan Green mix and mingle at the event.

Sarah Yoho and Brooke Docherty used the Bumble BFF option designed to help women make new friends.

Sarah Yoho describes her experience with Bumble BFF, “We just moved to LA and we met on Bumble BFF. It’s amazing to find a friend that you really connect to.” Brooke Docherty added, “Bumble is more than a dating app. You can find friends and even make networking connections.”

Randa Nelson, Michelle Santizo, and Dana Lee

Michelle Santizo explains, “I’m trying to make positive connections. I’m open to dating through Bumble. I’d love to find the right guy!” The Bumble philosophy: On Bumble, women make the first move. We’re leveling the playing field and changing the dynamics of dating. We believe relationships should begin with respect and equality. 

Ellie Lyon, Abby Bedford, Katy Amezcua

Ellie Lyon had a simple reason for attending explaining, “We’re here to eat food and meet people”

The dating app has another offering, Complimentary Chocolate Dome dessert at Fia. It’s available Monday, September 20th through Friday, September 24th. All week, from 3 pm to 10 pm PST Bumble users are encouraged to call FIA to book a reservation. The first 60 Bumble couples who dine at Fia during this time will receive a complimentary Chocolate Dome dessert (while supplies last). Fia is located at 2454 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403.

Here’s a link with more information about in-person events and prizes. https://city-guides.bumble.com/

From Bumble:

Bumble is the first app to bring dating, friend-finding, and career-building into a single social networking platform.