Greater LA

The new documentary “Mija” follows Doris Anahi Muñoz, the daughter of immigrants, as she makes her own path in the music industry while supporting her family. Fritz Coleman retired as a longtime LA weatherman in 2020, but he couldn’t stay away from the mic. He and comedian Louise Palanker have created the Media Path podcast. At the Other Places Art Fair, which takes place this weekend in San Pedro, visitors can expect conceptual kites, mealworms munching on styrofoam sculptures, and more.

Tomatoes grown in greenhouses use 90% less water than ones grown outdoors. Why isn’t it catching on in drought-stricken California? LA is developing one of the most robust “street psychiatry” programs in the nation. The goal is to meet unhoused individuals experiencing mental health issues where they are.

The transformation of one South Central building from juvenile courthouse to community center underscores a shift in LA County’s youth justice system. Musician Angélique Kidjo returns to the Hollywood Bowl on the heels of a Grammy win and a new album with composer Phillip Glass. A face-off between Republican Congresswoman Michelle Steel and Democratic challenger Jay Chen in Orange County could shape the strategy for the national Democratic and Republican parties moving forward.

Greater LA reairs its interview with Laurie Leshin, who formally started her job as JPL’s director in May. She wants to explore the far reaches of space, find evidence of life on Mars, and make the institution more inclusive. Also, listen back to how Angelenos can rent the historic telescopes at LA’s Mt. Wilson Observatory for one night. It’s complete with snacks and a guide — all for $1,700. How did this sanctuary of science become a fun night out for anyone with a credit card?

The results of LA’s annual homeless count show a 4.1% increase in the number of people living on the streets and in shelters countywide since 2020, and a 1.7% increase in the City of LA. The world premiere of Indigenous choreographer and activist Emily Johnson’s immersive piece, “Being Future Being,” takes place at The Broad Stage from September 8 to 10. Food pop-ups are a popular way for chefs to reduce overhead costs while building a following. The Compton soul food duo behind Trap Kitchen pioneered the model nearly a decade ago.

Asking prices have been falling for many Southern California homes over the last few months. Is this a blip or a sign of a long-term trend? The Los Angeles Public Library has millions of books at more than 70 branches. But it also loans out several non-book items — all you need is a (free) library card. It’s not too late to catch up on summer reading — and look ahead to titles coming out this fall. Katie Orphan of Chevalier's Books recommends “Pink Hotel” “The Long Answer,” “Bad City,” and more.

A major water utility in Southern California has asked 4 million of its customers to stop watering their yards for two weeks while the company repairs a pipe. In the race to elect LA’s next mayor, Congresswoman Karen Bass is in the lead after her June primary win. How can real estate mogul Rick Caruso catch up? More Black and Brown Californians are seeking respite in the affordable and spacious Inland Empire, but the area’s long history of inequality can’t be erased overnight.

LA City Council is considering a proposal to end COVID-era eviction protections. Landlords say they need the income amid inflation. Activists worry that this will lead to more displacement. The need for physical touch climbed amid coronavirus quarantine and isolation. Trevor James, a professional touch therapist and cuddler, aims to help people reconnect.

Despite crowds, some businesses on the Venice Beach Boardwalk say inflation and the end of stimulus checks mean summer visitors aren’t spending like they used to. When the Dust Bowl sent thousands fleeing to California, LA’s police chief deployed armed officers to the border to keep them out. Author Bill Lascher discusses this little-known piece of history. “Unprotected” is a new virtual art show at Epoch gallery, where a collection of artists are responding to the Supreme Court’s decision that overturned Roe v. Wade.

Garment workers are getting higher pay thanks to a new 2022 state law — following a long history of wage theft. Organizers are making a national push for laborer protections. California’s labor commissioner fined Playa Vista Car Wash $2.3 million for underpaying its workers. That was in 2019. Now workers still haven’t received any of that back pay. Animal Assistance League of OC cares for lost or abandoned pets. They also help low-income seniors, disabled people, and those experiencing homelessness meet their pets’ basic needs.