🤙 2025 Los Angeles vibes

Collaborate brand vibes with CuratedLA

JANUARY 3RD, 2025

We are trying to prove ourselves wrong as quickly as possible, because only in that way we can find progress.

Sunny ☀️ 
High 64 | Low 45
Rise 6:58 | Set 4:58

Surf Report 🏄‍♀️ 
Highs 10:40a, 12:46a
Lows 4:36a, 5:58p

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FRIDAY’S VIBES

2025

IS OUR YEAR

HI CUTIE! 👋 Our Best Year Starts Now:

  • I want to thank everyone that supported the good vibes at CuratedLA in helping us reach out December 2024 goal! I will be personally reaching out to each of you via email over the weekend. Thank you again. If you would like to donate what you can for January, you can do so with the button below. Speaking of January, we will move to regular morning publications, 6:00am, on both Wednesday and Friday. The goal is to publish on Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 6:00am. But right now, small BUT mighty team of Curators.

  • 2025 is off to a bit of a chaotic start. And with this, I want to remind us all (myself included) that if we see something, to say something. We never know what impact of Good could be made with a simple call, email, text or tip to local law enforcement and community officials. Now, onto today’s good vibes!

TODAY’S PUBLICATION ⬇️ Vibes Shared For Today:

Five new eats from Glendale to El Sereno, Jaime Jaquez Jr. jersey retirement, speed limit changes coming to Santa Monica next month, Google Store comes to Santa Monica, Free AppleTV+ this weekend, and a lot of comedy to get you laughing into 2025. All this, plus more, below!

ON THIS DAY ⏪️ Los Angeles History

1998: Los Angeles Clippers' Coach Bill Fitch coaches his 2,000th NBA game, winning 97-88 over the Dallas Mavericks at LA Memorial Sports Arena.

YOUR BRAND

Partner with CuratedLA to align your brand with positivity, creativity, and meaningful impact. We’re the trusted destination for uplifting, distraction-free content—free from the divisive noise of politics and the gloom of morbid headlines. Many brands struggle to stand out when their ads appear alongside content that doesn't reflect their values. At CuratedLA, your message will shine in a space that’s thoughtful, balanced, and genuinely engaging.

This New Year, we’re offering an exclusive opportunity: secure three premiere newsletter sponsorships for a collaborative rate of just $274.

With over 8,500 loyal subscribers, a 47% open rate, and an 8% click-through rate, your brand will be seen, loved, and remembered. Plus, with no paywall and an audience that grows by 6,000 new monthly users, your impact extends even further.

Let’s make your 2025 remarkable. And as always, we strive to do the next right thing.

HOV LANES

LOCAL

FUN

Dodgers’ Ohtani and wife will soon be welcoming a baby to the family.

Women-led pop-up, Written Hand, brings playful dishes + cocktails to Hollywood.

The truth about California’s legal weed, Hollywood crisis. LAT’s stories of 2024.

Presenters announced for Sunday night’s 82nd Annual Golden Globes. 💌 

How social media saved Agoura Hills’ Linkin Park with a comeback. 💌 

LA Dining Experts discuss their biggest hopes for 2025’s restaurant industry.

Warnings issued for eight Los Angeles County beaches.

2025 Pre-Golden Globes Gala in Los Angeles on Saturday night.

California now requires insurers to increase wildfire-area home coverage.

Four restaurants to try this weekend in Los Angeles from Eater Editors.

NATIONAL

🏈 RETIREMENT? Jets’ Aaron Rodgers acknowledges Sunday could be last game.

👶 BETAS: Meet Gen Beta, starting to be born in 2025.

🚀 SPACE: Meteor showers, lunar eclipse: seven space events for 2025.

📰 NEWSLETTERS: Local newsletters: the new ad kings?

☃️ NATIONAL FORECAST: Polar vortex poised to spin into the United States, leading to a frigid January.

🔗 CURATEDLA: Last newsletter’s most viewed content: Nipsey Hussle’s legacy sizzles on Melrose with Marathon Burger.

TODAY: 3RD

SATURDAY: 4TH

TODAY IS: Chocolate Covered Cherry Day, Women Rock! Day + others.

SATURDAY IS: Braille Day, Spaghetti Day, Trivia Day, Rachel Day + others.

NCAA I: SERVPRO First Responder Bowl: North Texas vs. Texas State.

NCAABahamas Bowl pres. by Atlantis Resorts: Buffalo vs. Liberty.

NCAA IIDuke’s Mayo Bowl: Minnesota vs. Virginia Tech.

NFL ICleveland Browns at Baltimore Ravens, 1:30pm on ESPN/ABC.

CURATEDLA: Submit content to CuratedLA, completely free. 💌 

NFL IICincinnati Bengals at Pittsburgh Steelers, 5:00pm on ESPN/ABC.

SUNDAY: 5TH

SUNDAY IS: Bird Day, Carver Day, Keto Day, Whipped Cream Day + others.

AWARDS: 82nd Golden Globe Awards, 5:00pm on CBS.

SNF: Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions, 5:20pm on NBC/Peacock.

EATS

HEADLINES

STARBUCKS ☕️ Ring in 2025 with New Bold Espresso, Delights + Bites:

  • Starbucks kicks off the new year with the debut of the Cortado, a bold espresso beverage crafted with three ristretto shots of Blonde Espresso, steamed milk, and rich, creamy texture. Joining the permanent menu is the Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado, featuring non-dairy oat milk, brown sugar syrup, and a cinnamon finish. Seasonal favorites like the Pistachio Latte and Pistachio Cream Cold Brew return for a limited time, alongside the customizable sweetness of matcha beverages. Food highlights include the certified vegan Spicy Falafel Pocket, Vanilla Bean Custard Danish, and the festive Valentine Cake Pop, adding indulgence and variety to Starbucks' winter offerings. Starbucks’ new menu offerings are available, starting today. 💌 

CITY CHALLENGE 🌯 Chipotle x Strava - City Challenge Comes to LA:

  • Chipotle's partnership with Strava expands globally, bringing the City Challenge to 25 cities, including Los Angeles. Now available, participants can log miles on Strava segments to compete for prizes like free Lifestyle Bowls for a year or a city-wide BOGO offer. Locals can also track progress via a heatmap and aim for Local Legend status. Alongside this, Chipotle launches Goals, Gym, Guac, a motivational text community offering exclusive content and a chance to win free bowls on No Quitters Day, next Friday, January 10th. With seven Lifestyle Bowls catering to various dietary needs, Chipotle encourages healthy habits with convenience and flavor. 💌 

OPENINGS

GLENDALE 🥤 Smoothies and More: Robeks New Location

  • Robeks has landed in Glendale’s City Center on N Central Avenue, bringing its vibrant menu of hand-crafted smoothies, juices, açai bowls, and premium toasts to the bustling neighborhood. Owner Levon Aroutiounian, a longtime fan of the brand, aims to expand Robeks' mission of health and wellness with fresh, flavorful options that resonate with the local community. As part of the California-born chain, this location enhances Robeks' presence in a health-conscious market, offering convenient, nutritious meals via their Rewards app. Regular hours are 7:00am - 8:00pm daily.

El SERENO 🐷 Evil Cooks Unleashes Thrash Metal-Inspired Taqueria:

  • Evil Cooks, the thrash metal-themed taquería helmed by chefs Alex and Elvia García, has transitioned from a popular pop-up and Smorgasburg favorite to a permanent location in El Sereno. Located on N. Eastern Avenue, the restaurant's edgy ambiance features heavy metal decor and a back patio with a faux blood fountain. The inventive menu includes the McSatan cheeseburger taco, The Simmons with thick slabs of lengua, and the jet-black Poseidon with seared octopus in smoky salsa tatemada. Operating hours are Tuesday to Thursday from 10:00am to 9:00pm and until 10:00pm on Friday and Saturday. Evil Cooks continues to serve at Smorgasburg on Sundays.

PASADENA 🍳 New Breakfast Burrito Haven:

VIRGIL VILLAGE ☕️ WYND Coffee & Art Gallery’s Grand Opening:

  • WYND Coffee & Art Gallery will officially open its doors on N Virgil Ave in Virgil Village Saturday, offering a unique blend of specialty coffee and local art. Patrons can enjoy meticulously crafted seasonal beverages, including espresso drinks made on a Slayer Espresso V3, in a welcoming space that doubles as an art gallery. The café is currently open every weekend from 9:00am to 3:00pm, with plans to expand its hours in the future. For the latest updates and announcements, follow their Instagram page.

PASADENA 🥪 Panini Kabob Grill Expands to Pasadena:

EAT LINKS

🚀 2025 OPENINGS: The most anticipated LA restaurant openings to know about in 2025, via Eater Los Angeles.

😋 NEIGHBORHOODS: Los Angeles’ best dining neighborhoods in 2024, via Eater Los Angeles.

🧀 CHEESE, PLZ: Four specialty LA cheese stores to help you elevate your New Year’s spread, via LAist.

🍹 SOBER LIVING: Burden of Proof is LA’s newest ‘NA’ bottle shop, via LAist.

🍕 SLICE OF SCHOOL: How to make school cafeteria pizza from the ‘80s and ‘90s, via Tasting History with Max Miller on YouTube.

EVENTS

 💸 Free

🎈Family

🐇 Politics

🪙 Budget

🙈 Adults

🏳️‍🌈 Pride

FRIDAY

FRIDAY: 3RD

7:00PM 🐠 PINK TALKING FISH: W(A Fusion of Pink Floyd, Talking Heads, & Phish), with The Alligators. The Troubadour.

7:30PM 🎧️ RICK GLASSMAN: Take Your Shoes Off with Rick Glassman. Dynasty Typewriter at the Hayworth.

7:30PM 🎤 SURROUNDED: With Mike Falzone, Steph Tolev, Morgan Jay, Saul Trujillo & Laura Peek. The Lab at Hollywood Improv.

7:45PM 🎤 FRIDAY NIGHT ALL-STAR: With Maz Jobrani, Dane Cook, Orny Adams, Ian Edwards and Chaunté Wayans. The Laugh Factory - Hollywood.

8:00PM 🎸 THE SMELL’S 27TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: Night II with Ty Segall, March Adstrum, Dear Francis, El Colmo & Elder Sister. The Smell.

8:00PM 🎸 BILLY CHILDS: First Show. The Baked Potato.

8:00PM 🎸 JEFF TWEEDY: (of Wilco). Largo at the Coronet.

8:00PM 🎤 TONIGHT AT THE IMPROV: With Maz Jobrani, Orny Adams, Amir K, Brooks Wheelan, and more TBA! Hollywood Improv.

8:00PM 🎻 BEETHOVEN: Batiashvili Plays Beethoven with Robin Ticciati, Lisa Batiashvili, & the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Walt Disney Concert Hall.

8:00PM 🎤 BEST OF THE STORE: With Caroline Rhea, Rick Ingraham, Fahim Anwar + more! The Comedy Store - Main Room.

8:00PM 🎸 T.S.O.L: With Knuckleheadz & Noggy. The Regent Theater.

8:00PM 🎤 LIVE FROM THE BELLY ROOM: With Brandi Denise, Solomon Georgio, Megan Gailey, Fumi Abe + more! The Comedy Store - Belly Room.

9:00PM 🎤 SIXTEEN HEADLINERS: With Maz Jobrani, Chris Estrada, Eddie Pepitone, Steph Tolev, a Special Guest + More. The Comedy Store - Original Room.

9:45PM 🎤 SURROUNDED: With Mike Falzone, Jackson Banks, Steve Zaragoza, Katherine Blanford, Brandi Denise & Felicia Folkes. The Lab at Hollywood Improv.

10:00PM 🎤 FRIDAY NIGHT ALL-STAR: With Chris Spencer, Amir K, Tony Rock, Caroline Rhea, Ruben Paul, Justine Marino. The Laugh Factory - Hollywood.

10:00PM 🎤 DOUBLES: Featuring Leslie Lao, Dan Donahue, Amy Miller, Saul Trujillo, Laura Peek + Surprise Guests! The Comedy Store - Belly Room.

10:00PM 🚀 SPACE YACHT ANNIVERSARY: Big Bass Ting. Exchange L.A.

10:00PM 🎸 BILLY CHILDS: Second Show. The Baked Potato.

10:15PM 🎤 TONIGHT AT THE IMPROV: With Asif Ali, Steph Tolev, Nika King, Mark Smalls, Nikki Bon and more TBA! Hollywood Improv.

10:30PM 🎤 LATE NIGHT IN THE MAIN ROOM: With Bobby Lee, Chris Spencer, Eleanor Kerrigan, Brent Morin + more. The Comedy Store - Main Room.

11:59PM 🎤 AFTER MIDNIGHT HEADLINERS: Looking for some late night laughs? Meet us in the OR! The Comedy Store - Original Room.

SATURDAY

SATURDAY: 4TH

6:00PM 🎸 BLACK FLAG: Performing ‘The First Four Years.’ Whisky A Go Go.

6:00PM 🎸 JEREMY TOBACK: With Shane Alexander & Killah Cortez. Permanent Records Roadhouse.

6:30PM 🎸 THICK STRIP: Live in LA. The Moroccan Lounge.

7:00PM 🎤 DEON COLE: Does This Work? The Lab at Hollywood Improv.

7:00PM 🎤 JERROD CARMICHAEL: With Live Jerrod Carmichael On Stage in Los Angeles. Hollywood Improv.

7:00PM 🎤 HEADLINERS OF THE OR: With Special Guest, Taylor Williamson, Marc Maron, Ron G, Sarah Tiana + more! The Comedy Store - Original Room.

7:00PM 🎤 LIVE FROM THE BELLY ROOM: Garrick Bernard, Jenny Johnson, Carmen Morales, Ryan Mirvis + more! The Comedy Store - Belly Room.

7:30PM 🎤 TONIGHT AT THE LAB: With Ron G, Frank Castillo, Jared Goldstein, Justine Marino, and more TBA! The Lab at Hollywood Improv.

7:30PM 🔥 HOLLYWOOD’S HOTTEST: With Nikki Glaser, Dane Cook, Fahim Anwar, Orny Adams, Shapel Lacey and Vanessa Graddick. The Laugh Factory - Hollywood.

7:30PM 🎤 BEST OF THE STORE: With a Special Guest, Marc Maron, Kevin Christy + more! The Comedy Store - Main Room.

8:00PM 🎸 SWANDIVE: With Shutups, Sept & Tankerlow. The Echo.

8:00PM 🎸 THE SMELL’S 27TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: WNight III: With Mika Miko, Death Sentence: Panda! Ima F— Gymnist & Frisco Dykes. The Smell.

8:00PM 🎤 SWEET SIXTEEN: With Kate Crutchfield, D’Arcy Carden, & Allison Crutchfield. Largo at the Coronet.

8:00PM 🎻 BEETHOVEN: Batiashvili Plays Beethoven with Robin Ticciati, Lisa Batiashvili, & the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Walt Disney Concert Hall.

8:30PM 🎸 NO SIMPLE HIGHWAY: (Grateful Dead Tribute). SOhO Restaurant & Music Club.

9:00PM 🎸 TONY JUPITER: With Dustbowl Champion, Spunk, En-Vitro, & Melissa Brooks (DJ Set). The Roxy.

9:00PM 🎤 STRONGER CHOICES: With Adam Lielblein, Jason Earles, Elijah Howard, Kat Bird, Stacy Dymalski, Wendy Wilkins, Jimmy Palombi, Paul Roseberry, and Tony Shriller. The Lab at Hollywood Improv.

9:00PM 🎸 FRED THOMAS: With Nick Flessa & Primer. Permanent Records Roadhouse.

9:30PM 🔥 TONIGHT AT THE IMPROV: Featuring Bobby Lee, Chris Estrada, Ian Bagg, Morgan Jay, Chris Spencer, Quinn Dahle, Jordan Rock and more TBA! Hollywood Improv.

9:30PM 🎤 A DOPE COMEDY SHOW: Presented by Dave Helem and Joey Hill. With Jay Larson, David Murphy, Kiry Shabazz, Fatimah Taliah. The Comedy Store - Belly Room.

9:45PM 🎤 MALCOLM CILLS AND FRIENDS: Featuring Marx, Joe Praino, Ari Kaplan, Kalea McNeill, Misty Sanderson, Malcolm Cills, Ahmed Al-Khadri and Kristin Chirico. The Lab at Hollywood Improv.

10:00PM 🎤 HEADLINERS OF THE OR LATE NIGHT: With Shapel Lacey, Tom Rhodes, Nicole Aimee Schreiber, Jessie ‘Jetski’ Johnson + more! The Comedy Store - Original Room.

10:00PM 🔥 HOLLYWOOD’S HOTTEST: With Nikki Glaser, Brent Morin, Ruben Paul, Tony Rock, Nicky Paris and Morgan Jay. The Laugh Factory - Hollywood.

10:30PM 🎤 LATE NIGHT IN THE MAIN ROOM: With Bobby Lee, Ian Bagg, Owen Smith, Fahim Anwar + more! The Comedy Store - Main Room.

11:45PM 🎤 WRONG! A F*cked Up Game Show with Jay Light featuring Andrew Collin, Angie Stroud, and Keith Ray. The Comedy Store - Belly Room.

11:59PM 🎤 AFTER MIDNIGHT HEADLINERS: Looking for some late night laughs? Meet us in the OR! The Comedy Store - Original Room.

SUNDAY

SUNDAY: 5TH

1:00PM ⏪️ BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical. Segerstrom Hall.

2:00PM 🎻 BEETHOVEN: Batiashvili Plays Beethoven with Robin Ticciati, Lisa Batiashvili, & the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Walt Disney Concert Hall.

6:30PM ⏪️ BACK TO THE FUTURE: The Musical. Segerstrom Hall.

6:30PM 🔥 EN-VITRO: With a Special Guest, Chicano Mosh, Astronaut Samurais, & Funds for Jimmy. The Moroccan Lounge.

8:00PM 🎸 VIA MARDOT: With Gal Musette. The Echo.

7:00PM 🎤 JERROD CARMICHAEL: With Live Jerrod Carmichael On Stage in Los Angeles. Hollywood Improv.

7:00PM 🎸 HUMAN MUSIK: With Nick Moon & Virtua. Genghis Cohen.

7:30PM 🎻 ORGAN RECITAL: With Paul Jacobs. Walt Disney Concert Hall.

9:00PM 🎞️ TV + MOVIE AWARDS AFTERPARTY: With Talan Reid, Pookie, Tay Jame & DJ MOS. Academy L.A.

FIVE FUTURES

FIVE FUTURES

MONDAY 6TH, 7:00PM 🎤 POTLUCK POP-INS: With Huge Surprise Guests! Hosted by Jose Marrese. The Original Room - The Comedy Store.

MONDAY 6TH, 7:00PM 🎤 TONIGHT AT THE IMPROV: With Adam Ray & Kumail Nanjiani. The Main Room at The Hollywood Improv.

TUESDAY 7TH, 7:30PM 🎤 BILL BURR: Live in Los Angeles. Ebell Theatre.

TUESDAY 7TH, 8:00PM 🎤 THE IMPROVISED SHAKESPEARE COMPANY: Live in Los Angeles. Largo at the Coronet.

SATURDAY, 11TH, 7:00PM 🎸 IHEART RADIO ALTER EGO: Presented by Capital One with Incubus, The Lumineers, Cage The Elephant, The Offspring, Glass Animals, The Head And The Heart, St. Vincent, Fontaines D.C., & Damiano David. Kia Forum.

GUIDES

GUIDES

📆 WEEKEND: The best things to do in Los Angeles and Southern California this weekend, via LAist.

🥾 OUR YEAR: Thirteen free things to do in Los Angeles to start 2025 on the right foot, via We Like L.A.

📱 2025 APPS: Essential apps to make 2025 your best year ever, via PCMag.

❄️ JANUARY: A big list of things to do this January, via We Like L.A.

ACTIVITIES

HOLLYWOOD 💥 Pop-Surrealism Takes Center Stage Tonight:

  • La Luz de Jesus Gallery unveils The Beginning of the End, a captivating pop-surrealist exhibition spotlighting standout artists from their Everything But the Kitchen Sink 2024 showcase. Featuring works by Douglas Cason, Dion Macellari, Visible Damage, and more, this eclectic collection opens with a reception tonight from 7:00pm to 11:00pm, and runs through February 2nd at the iconic Wacko/Soap Plant venue.

PASADENA 🌹 Floatfest - A Rose Parade Showcase:

  • Today is the last day to get up close to the stunning floral floats featured in the Rose Parade during Floatfest, happening along Sierra Madre and Washington Boulevards in Pasadena. This event lets visitors walk within feet of the intricate designs and craftsmanship, with the chance to learn more about the float-making process from Tournament volunteers. With over two miles of city streets to explore, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and arrive early. Parking is limited, so free shuttles from designated locations ensure an easy visit. Tickets are available until 3:30 pm daily.

LONG BEACH 🏰 Reminder! Last Weekend for Disney on Ice (Long Beach):

  • Disney On Ice presents Magic in the Stars has ice-skated its way into various parts of Southern California. Disney On Ice features over fifty beloved characters, cutting-edge skating, and dazzling effects. The all-new show includes the on-ice debuts of Raya from Raya and the Last Dragon, Asha from Wish, and the story of Frozen 2. Audiences will journey through iconic tales with Mickey, Moana, Mirabel, and more, while exploring themes of dreams and self-discovery. This is the last weekend for Disney on Ice in Southern California, with performances in Long Beach. Tickets are available online with family-friendly pricing and optional pre-show character experiences for the following shows:

LONG BEACH

Friday Jan. 3rd: 7:00pm

Saturday, Jan. 4th: 11:00am, 3:00pm & 6:30pm

Sunday, Jan. 5th: 11:00am, 3:00pm, & 6:30pm

Long Beach Arena:
Tickets

LITTLE TOKYO ⚡️ Olafur Eliasson Lights Up MOCA Geffen for Free Tonight:

  • Explore Olafur Eliasson’s immersive exhibition at MOCA Geffen this Friday as part of PST ART: Art & Science Collide. Known for his captivating installations blending geometric optics with themes of perception and participation, the evening also features a walkthrough led by theorist Neema Githe. Limited free timed slots are available from 6:00pm to 8:00pm.

SANTA MONICA 🐻‍❄️ Dive into 2025 at Santa Monica’s Polar Bear Plunge, Saturday:

  • Start the new year with a splash at Santa Monica's 7th Annual Polar Bear Plunge this Saturday from 10:00am to 2:00pm. Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or just testing the waters, join fellow Polar Bears for a brisk dip in the ocean, followed by warming up in the Beach House pool. Registration begins at 10:00am with the first plunge at 10:15am, and activities include a 300-yard swim for the brave. Enjoy hot chocolate, photos with the Polar Bear mascot, and a fun, invigorating start to 2025.

LITTLE TOKYO 🐍 Oshogatsu Family Festival - Year of the Snake, Sunday:

  • Ring in the Year of the Snake at the Japanese American National Museum's Oshogatsu Family Festival on Sunday. This free, family-friendly event features cultural performances, crafts, and activities, including a traditional mochitsuki rice-pounding ritual by Kodama Taiko, candy sculpture demos by Shan the Candyman, interactive storytimes, and a scavenger hunt with prizes. Visitors can also enjoy Oshogatsu-inspired crafts, origami, and exclusive perks for JANM members. Don’t miss this annual celebration in Little Tokyo, running from 11:00am to 5:00pm, with free admission all day and exhibits open before renovations begin. 🎈 💸 

DOWNTOWN LA 🦝 Explore the Unusual at the Oddities & Curiosities Expo:

  • This weekend, dive into the world of the strange and mysterious at the Oddities & Curiosities Expo, taking over the Los Angeles Convention Center. Over 150 vendors and artists will showcase rare antiques, handcrafted oddities, and unique finds for collectors and curious minds alike. The event goes beyond shopping, offering immersive experiences like tarot readings, sideshow performances, and more. Tickets start at $12. Don't miss this one-of-a-kind experience, happening Saturday and Sunday.

COMMUNITY

SANTA MONICA 🚨 Speed Limit Updates in Progress:

  • Santa Monica is implementing citywide speed limit reductions to enhance safety for all road users, backed by California Assembly Bill 43. Updates, informed by the 2024 Engineering and Traffic Survey, allow for speed limits to align more closely with safe driving conditions. Changes are already visible, like Neilson Way’s reduction to 25 mph, with Main Street and Ocean Avenue next. The project involves replacing 150 signs across 33 miles of roadway, with most limits dropping by 5 mph. Completion is slated for next month in February.

2025 LAWS🧑‍⚖️ AI, Housing, Consumer Protections + more:

  • California rolls out major 2025 laws tackling AI misuse, housing reform, and consumer rights. Key measures include SB 926 and SB 981 to regulate deepfakes and explicit content, SB 450 streamlining housing conversions, and AB 1775 legalizing cannabis cafes. Consumer protections expand with AB 2426 clarifying digital goods purchases and AB 2017 reducing overdraft fees. Other notable changes include banning legacy admissions (AB 1780), safeguarding child vloggers’ earnings (SB 764), and boosting workplace harassment protections (SB 428).

CAMARILLO 🏀 Celebrating Jaime Jaquez Jr. with Jersey Retirement:

  • Camarillo High School will honor Jaime Jaquez Jr., one of its most accomplished alumni, by retiring his No. 24 jersey on January 14th, during his visit to Los Angeles for the Miami Heat's games against the Clippers (January 13th) and Lakers (January 15th). Jaquez, now in his second NBA season, left a lasting legacy at UCLA, ranking among the top ten in school history for points, steals, and games played while leading the Bruins to a 2021 Final Four. Drafted by the Heat in 2023, the 23-year-old has averaged 11 points, 4 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game this season.

MANHATTAN BEACH 🪸 Community Input on Outdoor Dining:

  • Manhattan Beach residents are invited to a workshop shaping the future of the city’s Outdoor Dining Program. Taking place on Monday, January 27th from 6:00pm - 8:00pm at the Joslyn Community Center, the event will provide updates and gather input from locals to refine plans for a long-term solution. City officials emphasize the importance of community voices in this initiative aimed at enhancing dining experiences. For more details, visit manhattanbeach.gov/outdoordining. 💌

COMMUNITY LINKS

🏳️‍🌈 WEHO: West Hollywood’s sober New Year’s Eve, via LAist.

🎡 SANTA MONICA: Jing Yeo temporarily becomes Santa Monica’s Community Development Director, via Santa Monica Mirror.

🌹 PASADENA: Photos from the 2025 Rose Parade in Pasadena, via NBC4 LA.

💼 DISTRICT 2: Here are five things to know about Adrin Nazarian, one of LA’s newest councilmembers, via MSN/LA Daily News. 🐇

DEVELOPMENT

DOWNTOWN LA 🏡 New Affordable Housing Complex Opens in Downtown LA:

  • A new affordable housing complex, Umeya Apartments, has opened on South Towne Avenue in Downtown Los Angeles, offering 175 units in a seven-story building. The units, designed by FSY Architects, include studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments priced for low- to extremely low-income households, with half designated as permanent supportive housing for formerly unhoused residents. The building will feature approximately 13,000 square feet of community space, including retail and service areas, and will be home to a new mural by Skid Row artist Showzart. Amenities include a laundry room, community room, bicycle parking, and landscaped open space. A lottery for 85 general affordable units will open from from now until to January 31st, with the drawing taking place on February 14th. | Apply for drawing today.

SANTA MONICA 🎡 New Mixed-Use Development Nears Completion:

  • The 710 Broadway development in Downtown Santa Monica is rapidly progressing, with vertical construction now complete. Spanning 2.5 acres, the five-to-eight-story building will offer 280 apartments above 90,000 square feet of commercial space. Anchored by a new Vons supermarket, it will replace the previous location demolished for the project. Notably, 84 apartments will be designated for low and moderate-income households, managed by Community Corp. of Santa Monica. Designed by Large Architecture with interiors by Marmol Radziner and landscape by Studio-MLA, the project is slated to finish in late 2025, adding a vibrant new community hub to the area.

BURBANK 🚧 Pre-approved ADU Plans Aim to Fast-Track Housing:

  • Burbank is tackling California’s housing crisis with a new Preapproved Accessory Dwelling Unit Program (BPAP), streamlining ADU construction by offering preapproved site plans to homeowners. This cuts permitting times from over a year to as little as thirty days, saving thousands in design and engineering costs. ADUs, which accounted for 25% of new homes in California in 2023, are central to the state’s goal of adding 2.5m housing units by 2030. Burbank has seen record housing growth, with more units built since 2021 than the previous decade combined, and this initiative promises to accelerate sustainable, cost-effective development.

DEVELOPMENT LINKS

🚧 2025 PROJECTS: Here are the ten Los Angeles projects to watch for this year of 2025, via Urbanize Los Angeles.

BUSINESS

SAWTELLE 💰️ High Rise Financial Lands $100m to Expand Plaintiff Funding:

  • High Rise Financial, founded by twins Mark and Michael Berookim, has secured a $100 million credit facility to grow its litigation finance operations. Based in Sawtelle, the firm offers pre-settlement funding for personal injury cases, helping plaintiffs manage financials while cases settle, which can take one to four years. Despite a 30% annual interest rate, High Rise aims to level the legal playing field, allowing clients to wait for better settlements. They're now eyeing national expansion.

SANTA MONICA 🔎 Google’s First SoCal Store Set to Open in Santa Monica:

  • Google is poised to launch its inaugural Southern California retail store on 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica, marking its sixth U.S. location. Situated at the southern end of the Promenade near Santa Monica Place, the store will join neighboring retailers like Lululemon, Nike, and Tesla. The site, formerly occupied by Cult, a popular eatery that closed earlier this year due to declining business and public safety concerns, is undergoing a multi-million-dollar restoration led by Festival Real Estate, which purchased the historic Keller Building in 2021. This new store will play host to upcoming hardware launches, and will offer Google's latest products, in-person support, and exclusive merchandise.

STREAMING WARS ⛳️ PGA TOUR Unveils New Studio for Content Streaming:

  • The PGA TOUR is stepping into a new era of media control with the launch of its 165,000 square foot production facility in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida. This state-of-the-art studio allows the TOUR to produce content in-house, catering to the growing demand for sports media, especially as streaming platforms like Amazon, Netflix, and Apple seek turnkey sports solutions. The facility, which will have an economic impact of $112m, will help the PGA TOUR create exclusive content, including a new ‘World Feed’ for international audiences, and offers the flexibility to evolve with future media needs.

BUSINESS LINKS

🚀 BIZ SKILLS: The No. 1 business skill you’ll need in 2025, via Inc. Magazine.

📸 MORE TIKTOK: How marketers and small businesses are pivoting ahead of a potential TikTok ban, via Inc. Magazine.

👾 JOBS & AI: These four graphs show where AI is already impacting jobs, via Fast Company.

🎬️ MEDIA: State of Consumer Media Spending in 2024: Cost of internet, TV + mobile, via Reviews.

🎞️ WARNER BROS: Li Haslett Chen will step down from Warner Bros. Discovery’s Board of Directors at the end of this month, via The Wrap.

ENTERTAINMENT

HULU 🏈 Chad Powers Takes The Field - Glen Powell’s New Comedy Series:

  • Hulu drops the first teaser for Chad Powers, starring Glen Powell as Russ Holliday, a disgraced college quarterback who dons a wig and a new persona to join a struggling Southern football team. Co-created by Powell and Loki’s Michael Waldron, the comedy draws inspiration from Eli Manning’s viral ESPN+ episode, where he went undercover as a walk-on prospect. Powell described the role as one of his toughest yet, calling it a blend of humor and challenge. The series, produced by Eli and Peyton Manning, promises a playful, Ted Lasso-style look at college football’s eccentricities.

HEARTFELT ❤️ Move That Bus: Good Vibes Return for Extreme Makeover:

  • Extreme Makeover: Home Edition has returned with a fresh spin on its classic formula, guided by new hosts Clea Shearer and Joanna Teplin of The Home Edit fame. Known for organizing celebrity homes, the duo introduces the ‘Edit Zone,’ a transformative space where families experience emotional breakthroughs. Joining them are designer Arianne Bellizaire and furniture expert Wendell Holland, crafting stories that promise joy and tears in equal measure. The first episode premiered last night on ABC and is now available to stream on Hulu. 💌 

NETFLIX 📈 Streaming’s Holiday Blockbusters Light Up Global Charts:

  • Netflix audiences unwrapped a treasure trove of entertainment this holiday season. Squid Game Season 2 shattered records with 68m views, claiming No. 1 in 92 countries and setting a new benchmark for premiere-week success. Meanwhile, the NFL Christmas Gameday games became the most-streamed matchups in U.S. history, with Beyoncé's halftime show as an unforgettable highlight. On the English films list, ‘Carry-On’ dominated for a third week at No. 1, while holiday-themed favorites like ‘That Christmas’ and global hits like Belgium's ‘Ferry 2’ kept viewers engaged. From heartwarming romances to thrilling dramas, December’s binge-worthy slate delivered something for everyone. 💌 

APPLE TV+ 💸 Start 2025 with Free Apple TV+ Streaming:

  • Apple is giving non-subscribers a New Year treat: free access to its entire Apple TV+ catalog this weekend, Friday - Sunday. Anyone with an Apple ID can binge-watch hit shows like Severance and Ted Lasso or explore sci-fi favorites such as Foundation and For All Mankind. The promo also highlights star-studded films like Fly Me to the Moon and The Instigators. While free for three days, the offer aims to entice sign-ups at $9.99/month or $99.99/year. It's a short window, but packed with premium entertainment. 💌 

CES 2025 💻️ Tech’s Grand Stage Returns to Las Vegas:

  • As the new year kicks off, CES 2025 promises a spectacle of innovation when it opens this upcoming Tuesday in Las Vegas. With over 135,000 attendees and 4,300+ exhibitors last year, including 60% of Fortune 500 companies, this tech titan remains a vital platform for cutting-edge announcements. Key themes this year include AI-powered advancements in laptops and smart home devices, expanded Wi-Fi 7 integration, and a new HDMI 2.2 specification. Expect gaming laptops to level up with potential Nvidia RTX 50-series reveals and AMD’s pivot to mainstream GPUs. Meanwhile, 8K TVs stay niche, and fitness tech looks to surprise with smaller brand ingenuity. From smart home robots to eye-friendly tablets, CES once again sets the tone for a year of groundbreaking tech.

AI PERSONAS 👾 The Next Frontier for Facebook?

  • Meta is expanding its AI ambitions with plans to integrate AI-generated profiles into Facebook, making them as commonplace as user accounts. According to Meta VP of Product for Generative AI, Connor Hayes, these profiles will include bios, avatars, and the ability to create and share AI-powered content. Experts caution that such advances, without robust safeguards, could risk amplifying misinformation and flooding platforms with low-quality content. Meta has also teased new text-to-video tools for creators and continues to label AI-generated content. While CEO Mark Zuckerberg sees this as a long-term investment, the company remains focused on making its platforms more engaging through AI innovation.

GOLDEN GLOBES 🏆️ Emilia Pérez Leads a Historic Awards Season:

  • The Golden Globes kick off awards season Sunday with Emilia Pérez, a groundbreaking Spanish-language musical about a Mexican drug lord’s transition to a new life as a woman. Directed by Jacques Audiard, the film leads with a record-setting ten nominations, including Best Comedy or Musical Film, Best Director, and acting nods for Karla Sofia Gascon, Selena Gomez, and Zoe Saldana. Following its Cannes Jury Prize win and European Film Awards sweep, Emilia Pérez is seen as a frontrunner for Oscars glory. It faces stiff competition from Wicked, Anora, and The Substance. The revamped Globes, now emphasizing international diversity, will also feature top drama contenders like The Brutalist and Conclave. The Golden Globes airs live from The Beverly Hilton Hotel Sunday at 5:00pm with Comedian Nikki Glaser playing host. 💌 

AMAZON 🦁 MrBeast’s Big Bet on Prime Video:

  • MrBeast’s $100m+ reality competition show, premiered on December 19th via Prime Video, is rewriting the rules of streaming. With one thousand contestants chasing a $5m prize in a $14m custom-built Toronto set, it shattered forty Guinness World Records and topped charts in 82 countries. Amazon granted MrBeast full creative control—a groundbreaking move for the 26-year-old YouTube star commanding 340m subscribers. While critics are divided, the show's impact signals a shift: streaming giants betting on digital creators over traditional production houses to redefine entertainment deals.

ENTERTAINMENT LINKS

🪩 NYE: 18m viewers tuned into Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest, peaking around 22m viewers at midnight, via The Wrap Pro (Gift Article).

📺️ 2025 TV PREVIEW: All the TV shows you need to know, and where to stream them, via Mashable.

🍿 NETFLIX: There’s been 34 Netflix No. 1 movies in 2024 - here’s the seven that you need to watch, via Tom’s Guide.

🎬️ VFX TV: The best TV shows for VFX in 2024, via Creative Bloq.

🔤 WORDLE: Play today’s Wordle, via New York Times.

SPORTS

CHARGERS ⚡️ Mack, James, and Slater Head to Pro Bowl:

  • Khalil Mack, Derwin James Jr., and Rashawn Slater have been selected for the 2025 Pro Bowl, showcasing their pivotal contributions to the Chargers' success this season. Mack, earning his ninth Pro Bowl nod, remains a dominant force with 6.0 sacks, 51 pressures, and elite defensive grades. James, rebounding from a challenging 2023, has excelled with 90 tackles, 5.5 sacks, and a career-high run defense grade. Meanwhile, Slater, anchoring the offensive line, has posted career-best metrics in both pass protection and run blocking. Their standout performances reflect their leadership and top-tier talent on and off the field.

RAMS 🐏 Rookie Jared Verse Earns Pro Bowl Honors:

  • Jared Verse's stellar debut season with the Rams has landed him a spot in the 2025 Pro Bowl Games. The outside linebacker, who leads all NFL rookies in pressures (74), hurries (53), and quarterback hits (18), has also amassed 4.5 sacks, 11 tackles for loss, and 65 tackles, ranking among the team’s defensive leaders. Verse’s standout performance includes two forced fumbles and two recoveries, cementing his place as a rising star. The Pro Bowl Games, running from January 30th to February 2nd in Orlando, will feature skills competitions and a culminating flag football match.

RAMS 🐏 Rams Host Seahawks in Pivotal Week 18 Matchup:

  • The Los Angeles Rams (10-6) face the Seattle Seahawks (9-7) at SoFi Stadium in a Week 18 showdown that could impact the Rams’ playoff seeding. After a sluggish 1-4 start, the Rams surged with nine wins in their last eleven games, bolstered by a defense that’s allowed just 24 points across their last three contests. While Seattle is out of playoff contention, they’ll look to close strong against a division rival. The Rams are eyeing momentum heading into the postseason, with key performances from Puka Nacua and Kyren Williams driving their recent success. Catch the game Sunday at 1:25pm on FOX.

CHARGERS ⚡️ LA Eyeing Playoff Seeding in Season Finale Against Raiders:

  • The Los Angeles Chargers (10-6) will close out the regular season against their longtime rivals, the Las Vegas Raiders (4-12), on Sunday at 1:25pm. With playoff seeding on the line, a Chargers win could secure the No. 5 seed if the Steelers falter. Head Coach Jim Harbaugh aims for an 11th victory, while Justin Herbert leads an evolving roster bolstered by key additions like Joe Alt and J.K. Dobbins. The Chargers' defense, ranked first in points allowed, remains their backbone. Meanwhile, the Raiders seek to end their season with pride under Coach Antonio Pierce.

SPORTS LINKS

⚾️ ANGELS: Angels linked to all-star infielder as potential blockbuster free agent signing, via Los Angeles Angels (Sports Illustrated).

HAVE A GREAT WKND, LA!

🤙 Have a wonderful first weekend of 2025, Los Angeles.
And a strong start to our New Year,

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