10
Mon, Aug

An Evening with Hakeem Jeffries

 

 

An Evening with Hakeem Jeffries

The Ebell of Los Angeles & Writer’s Bloc Present An Evening with Minority Leader of the US House of Representatives Hakeem Jeffries.

Join us for an evening with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, one of Congress's most powerful speakers, as he makes a rare visit to Los Angeles to discuss his new book, The ABCs of Democracy.

In this delightful book, which is inspiring for any age, Jeffries expands on the values he championed in his historic speech as House Democratic Leader—American values over autocracy, benevolence over bigotry—using each letter of the alphabet to affirm the principles that make our country strong. With vivid illustrations, The ABCs of Democracy offers a clear and hopeful vision for America's future while warning of the dangers of choosing a different path.

Moderator Information: Brian Tyler Cohen is a progressive YouTuber, podcaster, political commentator, and MSNBC contributor. He also hosts a political podcast called No Lie with Brian Tyler Cohen, which has become a destination for top names in politics, from AOC to Rachel Maddow to President Biden.

REMEMBER: THE HOLIDAYS ARE COMING. THIS BOOK MAKES A PERFECT GIFT FOR ANYONE WHO LOVES DEMOCRACY.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION:

EVENT DATE: December 2, 2024

EVENT TIME: 7:30 PM

PRICE: $35 Admission without book / $57 Admission with a copy of The ABCs of Democracy

NO REFUNDS. Books must be picked up at the program. We do not hold or mail books.

No bags of any kind will be allowed into the event, with the exception of clear bags no larger than 12" x 12" x 16".

A valid ID is required to attend. Accepted forms of identification include state-issued ID or Driver’s License, valid non-expired US Government or Military ID, or an official passport.

We reserve the right to refuse entrance to anyone.

If you need ADA accommodation, please reach out to Ryan Bouimad at [email protected] for ticket purchase.

 

From $39.19

Open Fist Theatre Company: Beatles Meet Christmas Story

Its The Beatles! Its Christmas! Its Open Fist Theatre Company’sBOTH: A Hard Day’s Silent Night

Charity concert benefits Heart Of LA

 

WHAT:
It’s The Beatles! It’s the Christmas story! It's BOTH!Celebrate the holidays with Both: A Hard Day’s Silent Night, Open Fist Theatre Company’s annual holiday charity concert spectacular. A rockin’ choir and a swinging live band spread peace and joy, telling the Christmas story through effervescent Gospel arrangements of Beatles songs. Proceeds benefit Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA), giving underserved kids an equal chance to succeed through a comprehensive array of after-school academic, arts, athletics and wellness programs.

WHO:
• Gospel Arrangements by Jason Paige
• Music Direction by Chris Wabich
• Choreography by Eboni Nichols
• Conceived by Mark Wilson

WHEN:
Seven performances Dec. 18 through Dec. 22::
Wednesday, Dec. 18 at 8 p.m.
Thursday, Dec. 19 at 8 p.m.
Friday, Dec. 20 at 8 p.m.
Saturday, Dec. 21 at 4 p.m. and 8 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 22 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m.

WHERE:
Atwater Village Theatre
3269 Casitas Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90039
FREE parking in the ATX (Atwater Crossing) lot one block south of the theater.

TICKETS:
$30
A portion of the proceeds will be donated to Heart of Los Angeles (HOLA), giving underserved kids an equal chance to succeed through a comprehensive array of after-school academic, arts, athletics and wellness programs: www.heartofla.org

VIDEO:
Click here to watch members of the BOTH choir sing “We Can Work It Out”

HOW:
www.openfist.org
(323) 882-6912

CicLAvia – The Valley

 

CicLAvia – The Valley
Canoga Park ↔ Winnetka ↔ Reseda

5-Miles along Sherman Way in the West San Fernando Valley to Experience Car-Free Open Streets Connecting Canoga Park, Winnetka, and Reseda

Sunday, December 8, 2024; 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.


WHAT: CicLAvia – The Valley
On Sunday, December 8; between 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., CicLAvia – The Valley, welcomes everyone of all ages and abilities to its 57th car-free open streets event along Sherman Way in the west San Fernando Valley to experience car-free open streets connecting Canoga Park, Winnetka, and Reseda. Always free, CicLAvia participants just show up anywhere along the route at any time to enjoy this pop-up park for the day with one’s favorite people-powered way, whether that’s walking, jogging, biking, roller skating, skating, or simply spectating.

 

With three Hubs filled with plenty of activities and programs along the route, CicLAvia – The Valley will be both fun and engaging for all to enjoy. Hubs are walking zones (bike dismounts) and meeting points along the route with theCanoga Park Hub located near Shoup Ave and Sherman Way; the Winnetka Hub located near Winnetka Ave and Sherman Way; and the Reseda Hub located near Lindley Ave and Sherman Way. Hubs offer family-friendly activities, restrooms, free water refilling stations, free basic bike repair, bike parking, and first aid. Free pedicab rides are also available at each information booth.

 

“We’ve had an inspired 2024 CicLAvia season, and The Valley CicLAvia is a terrific way to cap-off the season,” says CicLAvia Executive Director Romel Pascual. “Throughout 2024, we’ve seen more and more infrastructure improvements for pedestrian and bike safety and in public transit on our streets, and you will see more bike and pedestrian improvements along The Valley route. You will also see our communities join in a joyful CicLAvia Sunday. As we enjoy the final CicLAvia of the 2024 season, we extend our gratitude to the many partners and supporters who have helped bring CicLAvia Sundays to LA and the region. We are excited to bring the energy and inspiration to 2025.”

 

Inspired by Bogotá’s weekly ciclovía, CicLAvia is a non-profit organization which has been temporarily closing streets to car traffic and opening them as public parks throughout Los Angeles County since 2010. Now, with more than 326 miles of open streets, these beloved, always free to attend events are a celebration of L.A.’s diverse and vibrant communities. CicLAvia car-free streets connect all of us to the neighborhoods where we live, work, shop, learn, and play. Active participants at CicLAvia use people-powered mobility to navigate public streets in a safe and joyful way. Along the way there is shopping at local businesses, access to cultural and architectural gems, using open streets as spaces to connect with each other, and making a positive impact on the environment by creating a more sustainable and climate resilient city and region. Over the past 14 years CicLAvia has helped communities re-imagine a greener and cleaner Los Angeles, while also promoting equitable transportation options, healthier lifestyles, and closer connections to community.

 

Only people-powered vehicles are allowed. No electric scooters, electric skateboards, hoverboards, electric unicycles, motorcycles and other non-people-powered vehicles are allowed at CicLAvia. Class 1 e-bike pedal-assist allowed. Class 2 e-bikes are allowed when the throttle is powered off. Class 3 e-bikes are allowed when pedal-assist is powered off. Motorized wheelchairs are allowed. Learn more here. Participants assume all known and unknown risks of participation in CicLAvia. More information regarding participants rights and rules of the route can be found here: https://www.ciclavia.org/ciclavia-safety

 

WHO:
Free for all
, CicLAvia is a nonprofit organization committed to introducing Angelenos to the vibrant civic and cultural treasures throughout Los Angeles. CicLAvia highlights important issues to all Angelenos - from environmental health and air quality improvement to access to safe and open parks, physical and mental well-being. CicLAvia has captured the imagination of more than 2-million people who have traveled together along more than 326 miles of streets. CicLAvia builds a unifying social fabric, joyously connecting culturally diverse neighborhoods and neighbors to each other through open streets. CicLAvia is not just about cycling, it’s also about multiple modes of people-powered transportation. Whether one walks, strolls, skates, jogs, scooters, or bikes, CicLAvia creates so many incredible moments and experiences enjoying our city streets together.

 

HOW & MORE INFORMATION:
• Visit https://www.ciclavia.org/ciclavia_heart_of_la_24
https://www.ciclavia.org/; [email protected]; 213-355-8500
• Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ciclavia
• Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ciclavia; Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ciclavia/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CicLAviaLA
• Photos: https://www.flickr.com/photos/laciclavia/sets/with/72157656013962875
• Videos: https://vimeo.com/762450848

Kalani Pe'a Brings his Festive Hawaiian Christmas Tour to Downey Theater

 

 The Aloha Everywhere Concert Series presented by Hawaiian Island Creations (HIC) Lifestyle presents three time GRAAMY Winner Kalani Pe'a with his Hawaiian Christmas Tour 2024 at the Downey Theatre on Saturday, December 14 at 7pm, bringing the best in Hawaiian music to Los Angeles. Kalani Pe'a known for singingeverything from classical, musical, ballads, R&B, soul to traditional and original Hawaiian music, displaying his wide-ranging talents as a songwriter and music composer. His talent for lyrics is on display in his original Hawaiian songs alongside his affectionate bilingual arrangements of R&B favorites. Special guests Kumu Hula Chase Keoki Wang and Hālau Nā Mamo O Pana'ewa join Kalani Pe'a for a memorable Hawaiian Christmas show. 

Spend an evening enjoying the musical spirit of the Hawaiian Islands and its welcoming aloha culture, celebrating the warmth and special ‘aloha’ of the season, sharing much-loved songs from both western and Hawaiian roots. Kalani Pe‘a is quite charismatic with a beautiful and powerful presence who will share the stage with special guests Kumu Hula Chase Keoki Wang and Hālau Nā Mamo O Pana’ewa. 

"We are excited to bring the Aloha Everywhere Music Series to Downey. Hawaiian music fans will enjoy ringing in the holidays with Kalani Pe'a as we bring culture, dance, and aloha everywhere," noted Patrick Landeza, Executive Director of HIC Lifestyle. 

“Gifted with a gorgeous voice and a flair for composing resonant Hawaiian songs, [he’s] a major, innovative figure in contemporary Hawaiian music.” – Maui News

The Aloha Everywhere Concert Series, presented by Hawaiian Island Creations (HIC) Lifestyle, started as a small surf shop on Oahu’s Windward shore. Through a commitment to quality, service and aloha spirit, the brand has built a reputation as an icon of Hawaiian surfing recognized throughout the world. The retail chain has grown to include seventeen stores across three islands, providing authentic Hawaiian surf gear to both locals and visitors alike and they subsequently branched out into the world of presenting Hawaiian music’s top artists, bringing excellent music, cultivating community, and nurturing culture by spreading aloha everywhere. 

WHEN: Saturday, December 14, 2024; 7 p.m. 

WHERE: Downey Theatre, 8435 Firestone Blvd., Downey, CA 90241 

PARKING: FREE on-site parking 

TICKETS: $40 - $65 

HOW & MORE INFORMATION:
-
https://www.downeytheatre.org/; 562-861-8211; [email protected]
- https://www.facebook.com/DowneyCivicTheatre; https://www.facebook.com/HICLifestyle; https://www.facebook.com/KalaniPeaMusic
- https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/1932263/downey-theater/; https://www.instagram.com/kalanipeamusic
- Kalani Pe'a music video Ku'u Poli'ahu: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7IsxQKApKI

- Kalani Pe'a Hawaii Theatre Highlights from last year’s Christmas Tour: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zgcviPCPX50&t=22s  

Kalani Pe‘a got his start at the age four when he was diagnosed with a speech impediment; his mother introduced him to singing and music to help him pronounce his words. His father who comes from a musical family and his mother encouraged him to take vocal lessons and choir, and by age 8, Peʻa was winning numerous talent competitions. His winning streak continued with Brown Bags to Stardom, and first place in the National Association Teachers of Singing Competition in Colorado/Wyoming chapter, in men’s classical and musical divisions. 

His debut album brought him into working with Dave Tucciarone, a 13-time Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award- Winning Engineer and Producer based in Honolulu, leading him to win a 2017 GRAMMY® and his first Na Hoku Award. This successful collaboration continued with Peʻa’s second CD, No ‘Ane‘i [We Belong Here], garnering rave reviews and a second GRAMMY win in 2019. Now his 3rd CD Kau Ka Pe‘a has once again brought him GRAMMY recognition, and he was also featured in the GRAMMY Opening Premiere Concert. 

A fluent Hawaiian speaker and graduate of Hawaiian language school, Peʻa went on to illustrate and publish five Hawaiian language children’s stories while working on his master's degree in early childhood education at the University of Hawaiʻi Hilo. He taught at Kamehameha Preschools in Kona, followed by 8 years as a Hawaiian resource coordinator for Kamehameha Schools Maui, teaching Hawaiian culture (science focus), and creating curriculum. 

The GRAMMY wins opened the door for his performing and touring career, and he was honored by the Hawai‘i State House of Representatives with an official proclamation: “It is vital that Native Hawaiian culture and the arts be perpetuated for future generations: Kalani Pe’a is a torchbearer and we recognize his accolades, accomplishments, and continued work on behalf of Native Hawaiians.”

 

Caterpillar Soup at Santa Monica Playhouse for Benefit

 

Critically acclaimed one-woman show Caterpillar Soup is returning to Santa Monica for three days only for a 20th anniversary performance Nov 21, 23, and 24.

These performances will benefit our nonprofit 'Help Hope Live' in honor of the play's writer and performer Lyena Strelkoff.

Lyena has been fundraising with us since 2003 for costs related to paralysis not covered by insurance.

Her play is about her own transformation following the fall from a tree that left Lyena, a lifelong dancer, paralyzed.

The play has received ovations across the country and as far away as Alaska.

Lyena's return to the stage now signifies how far she's come, how much the play's themes of resilience and transformation impact all of our lives, and the importance of community support (and financial help) after a spinal cord injury.

Benefit Performance Schedule:

Where: Santa Monica Playhouse at 1211 4th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401

What: 20th anniversary performance of Caterpillar Soup play plus Q&A after show.

Cause: Funds raised will go to the nonprofit Help Hope Live in honor of Lyena Strelkoff to offset verified medical and related expenses.

Cost: $25 to stream, $40 balcony seating, $50 main floor seating.

Register: Click here and navigate to the Fundraisers section to choose your dates.

Applications for the 2025 EmpowerLA Youth Conference

EmpowerLA is excited to announce that applications for the 2025 EmpowerLA Youth Conference are now open! On Saturday, February 22, 2025, from 8:00 am-4:00 pm, EmpowerLA will host 100 young people between the ages of 14-17 from across Los Angeles at Los Angeles City Hall to participate in a one-day event focused on civic engagement, leadership development, and local government. Conference attendees will dive into the role the Neighborhood Council system plays in grassroots local democracy, attend learning sessions on ways to be civically engaged in the community, network with like-minded young leaders, engage with City leaders, and so much more! Applications close Friday, December 20th at 11:59 p.m.

Learn More and Apply to Attend the 2025 EmpowerLA Youth Conference

We need your help to spread the word to young people in your community! This opportunity is great for current and prospective Neighborhood Council Youth Representatives, but the opportunity is open to any youth interested in civic engagement and local democracy. Participants are not required or expected to have prior government, leadership, or advocacy experience in their community.

 

We have developed an outreach toolkit to make it easy for you to share this opportunity on your Neighborhood Council's social media, website, and/or newsletter. The toolkit will be continuously updated between now and the application deadline with new graphics and translated materials, so check back often!

Explore the 2025 EmpowerLA Youth Conference Outreach Toolkit

Thank you for your support as we strive to empower the next generation of leaders in Los Angeles. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact Erica G. Doughty or Ava Marinelli, EmpowerLA Youth Conference Co-Chairs.

Best Friends Super Adoption Event

Best Friends - Save Them All(R)
Border collie in a logo

The next great love story in your life is only one week away! With hundreds of adorable, adoptable dogs and cats to choose from at the Best Friends Super Adoption, which furry friend will end up stealing your heart?

Join Best Friends Animal Society and dozens of rescue groups and shelters from across L.A. at Rose Bowl Stadium for a day full of animal adoptions, family-friendly fun, food trucks, exhibitor booths, photo ops, music, and much more.

🐶 What: Best Friends Super Adoption
🌹 Where: Rose Bowl Stadium
📆 When: Saturday and Sunday, November 2 and 3 - 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Love is waiting for you at the Best Friends Super Adoption — are you ready to embrace it?

Hawthorne Halloween Spooktacular Carnival

 

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR CARNIVAL

 

The City of Hawthorne is thrilled to announce the return of its annual Halloween Spooktacular event, along with the third annual Halloween Home Decorating Contest.

"Our annual Halloween Spooktacular is a cherished tradition that brings our community together for a night of fun, creativity, and festive spirit,” said City Manager Vontray Norris. “We can’t wait to see everyone’s spooky costumes and celebrate this special season together — prepare for a scarily good time!"

The City of Hawthorne's Halloween Spooktacular is a thrilling carnival of frights and fun hosted by the Community Services Department. The event takes place on October 26, from 3 to 6 p.m. at City Hall. This celebration welcomes ghouls and goblins of all ages to join the fun.

 

The event will showcase a lineup of exciting activities, including:

  • Trunk or Treat: Join the Hawthorne Police Department to explore decorated city vehicles and collect festive treats along the way.

  • Carnival Games: Put your skills and luck to the test with a variety of thrilling holiday games.

  • Jumpers: Little ones are invited to bounce the afternoon away in our fun inflatable jumpers.

  • Food Trucks: Satisfy your cravings with offerings from local food vendors that are to-die-for.

  • Face Painting: Transform into your favorite character or creature at a whimsical face painting station.

 

Halloween Home Decorating Contest

The frights aren’t over yet, as the Community Services Department invites all residents to showcase their spooky spirit in our third annual Halloween Home Decorating Contest. Interested participants are encouraged to email [email protected] with your name, address, phone number and a description of your hauntingly creative decorations. Entries are due by October 23 and judging will take place on October 29, from 5 to 10 p.m. 

Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, with winners receiving gift cards to a home improvement store. Last year’s contest was a spooktacular success, featuring a range of imaginative and haunting displays. Our judging will take into account creativity, theme adherence, material use and overall presentation.

For more information about Halloween events and updates, please visit the City of Hawthorne's website at CityofHawthorne.org or contact the Community Services Department at (310) 349-1640.

Granada Hills Street Faire returns

This Saturday, October 19th, from 10:00am - 5:00pm, one of Council District 12’s most beloved community events, the Granada Hills Street Faire returns! This event is undoubtedly one of Granada Hills’ premiere traditions and has brought joy and smiles to our neighborhoods for 20 years. There’s shopping, food, arts and crafts, and everything in-between to brighten your weekend plans. 

Date: Saturday, October 19th

Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Location: Chatsworth St., Granada Hills, CA

Come by and celebrate the things that truly make this community special. I sincerely hope to see you there!

 

Councilmember John S. Lee

 

WEST ADAMS DIA DE LOS MUERTOS FESTIVAL BLOCK PARTY

 

 

WEST ADAMS DIA DE LOS MUERTOS FESTIVAL BLOCK PARTY RETURNS WITH OUR COMMUNITY ALTAR, LIVE PERFORMANCES, ART EXHIBITIONS, FREE CARNIVAL RIDES & SO MUCH MORE!



WHAT:

Midcity Mercado and the City of Los Angeles Council District 10 proudly announce the return of the West Adams Dia de los Muertos Block Party Festival on November 2nd, 2024. Now in its second year, this celebration will transform West Adams into a vibrant avenue filled with live music performances, food trucks, art exhibitions, live mural painting, a ferris wheel, and a beautifully designed community altar. Everyone is invited to contribute their photos to the altar for collective community healing and celebration. This is an all-inclusive family-friendly event for all ages. 


The Dia de los Muertos Block Party Festival is an annual event that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of our community while honoring our ancestors and loved ones. In addition to live entertainment, festival-goers can partake in interactive activities like free carnival games, and community workshops.

WHEN:

Dia de los Muertos Block Party Festival

November 2nd, 2024

12:00 PM to 8:00 PM

WHERE:

West Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA. 

Between Spaulding Ave - Hauser Ave

EVENT DETAILS:

To view more details on the upcoming Dia de los Muertos Block Party, visit: 


https://www.instagram.com/midcitymercado/ 

Itzhak Perlman & Friends

 

A reigning virtuoso of the violin returns to Walt Disney Concert Hall with a distinguished group of collaborators: internationally celebrated pianists Jean-Yves Thibaudet and Emanuel Ax and the Juilliard String Quartet, who plays “magically, like a single four-voiced instrument” (Broad Street Review).

This series is generously supported by the Colburn Foundation.

 

Program

Green Day's American Idiot Has Been Extended By Popular Demand!

 

Green Day's American Idiot at the Mark Taper Forum

  • What: American Idiot - A rock opera based on Green Day's iconic 2004 album, reimagined in collaboration with Deaf West Theatre.
  • When: October 2 – November 16, 2024
  • Where: Mark Taper Forum, 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
  • Tickets: Starting at $42

This innovative production features both spoken English and American Sign Language, reflecting the bold partnership between Center Theatre Group and Deaf West Theatre. Directed by Snehal Desai, the musical uses a bilingual cast to enhance the emotional storytelling, with standout performances by Daniel Durant and Milo Manheim, who portray two facets of the same character.

Expect a high-energy, immersive experience that blends rock music with a theatrical edge, giving audiences a unique opportunity to enjoy Green Day’s music in an entirely new way. The themes of identity, rebellion, and connection promise to resonate deeply, making it an essential event this season.

For more information or to purchase tickets, visit Center Theatre Group.

Día de los Muertos 2024 - Gloria Molina Grand Park

Celebrate Life and Legacy: Join Us for Downtown Día de los Muertos 2024!

Experience the vibrant tradition of Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) with Gloria Molina Grand Park’s Downtown Día De Los Muertos

A two-week exhibition featuring stunning altars created by local artists and community organizations, along with vibrant family-friendly activities, a free film screening, and the first Downtown Día de Muertos parade.

Don’t miss the Opening Ceremony on Saturday, October 19th, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring music, dance, poetry, and more. This event is in partnership with ALOUD and the Library of America, and features media giveaways from KTNQ 1020 AM.

We look forward to celebrating with you and making this Día de los Muertos a memorable experience for all!

Chris Waller's 18th Annual Heart of a Champion Invitational

 

Chris Waller's 18th Annual Heart of a Champion Invitational is set to take place from January 4-6, 2025 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. This exciting gymnastics event brings together athletes from across the nation to compete at levels 2-10 and Xcel, showcasing their skills and determination.

The invitational isn’t just about gymnastics—it also supports a great cause. A portion of the event's proceeds will benefit Camp del Corazon, a camp on Catalina Island dedicated to children with heart disease, providing them with an unforgettable sleep-away experience. Additionally, the funds help reduce competition costs for families involved with Gymnastics Olympica, which nurtures young athletes through elite gymnastics programs.

The event will take place in South Hall K at the LA Convention Center, offering attendees easy access to various amenities and nearby attractions. From vendor booths to fun activities around Los Angeles, this event promises an engaging weekend for athletes and spectators alike. For families traveling from out of town, recommended accommodations and travel tips are available on the event’s official site.

This annual competition exemplifies sportsmanship, community support, and the spirit of giving, reinforcing the importance of perseverance both on and off the mat. Don't miss the chance to witness some of the most inspiring young gymnasts in action!

For more details and updates, visit the official event website: Heart of a Champion Invitational

 

January 4-6, 2025
Los Angeles Convention Center
1201 South Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, CA 90015

Supporting children with heart disease, with over $130,000 donated to charities to date.

LA AUTO SHOW

 

DATE

Nov 22 - Dec 1, 2024

TIME

 

Nov 22: 9:00am - 10:00pm
Nov 23: 9:00am - 10:00pm
Nov 24: 9:00am - 10:00pm
Nov 25: 11:00am - 7:00pm
Nov 26: 11:00am - 7:00pm
Nov 27: 11:00am - 7:00pm
Nov 28: 9:00am - 4:00pm
Nov 29: 9:00am - 10:00pm
Nov 30: 9:00am - 10:00pm
Dec 1: 9:00am - 6:00pm

 

OPEN TO PUBLIC

Yes

LOCATION

West Hall AB, South Hall GHJK, Concourse Hall, Kentia Hall (South Building), Petree Hall (West Building), Gilbert Lindsay Plaza ♦ Meeting Rooms: 300 Series (South Building), 400 Series (Concourse Walkway), 500 Series (West Building)

PARKING

Please park in West Hall or South Hall Parking Garages.

36th Annual Holiday Toy Drive in Palm Springs

 


 

Celebrate the Season of Giving at the 36th Annual Holiday Toy Drive in Palm Springs!

This holiday season, join Sam and Ashan Leslie for a heartwarming evening at one of Palm Springs’ most iconic venues—the Dinah Shore Estate—to support The Laurel Foundation. With your help, we aim to raise funds that will empower children and youth affected by HIV/AIDS and transgender/gender-diverse identities through free summer camp and year-round programs.


Event Details

📅 Date: December 7, 2024
🕠 Time: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
📍 Location: The Dinah Shore Estate, Palm Springs
🎁 Guests encouraged to bring a new unwrapped toy (ages 2-17)

Get your tickets now! Limited availability.


An Unforgettable Evening of Holiday Cheer

This 36th Annual Toy Drive promises to be a night to remember, with an exciting line-up of festive activities:

  • Hosted Bar & Gourmet Dinner by Celebrity Chef Franco
  • Raffle, Silent & Live Auctions
  • Christmas Carols
  • Special Announcement: 2024 Youth Empowerment Award winner
  • A Chance to Make a Difference: Help send children to free summer camp

A Special Venue: The Dinah Shore Estate

Step into the elegant world of Dinah Shore, one of television’s most beloved stars, whose Palm Springs estate now belongs to actor Leonardo DiCaprio. Dinah Shore’s legacy includes not only her musical and TV achievements but also her contributions to the Palm Springs community.

Her ties to the area run deep, from founding the Colgate Dinah Shore Golf Tournament to commissioning famed architect Donald Wexler to design her home. The estate embodies Shore's passion for creativity and philanthropy—making it the perfect place to celebrate a night dedicated to empowering young lives.


About The Laurel Foundation

Founded in 1993, The Laurel Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of children, youth, and families affected by HIV/AIDS and gender identity challenges. Through its free camps and mental health programs, The Laurel Foundation offers safe, empowering environments for young people to build confidence, community, and lifelong skills.

The foundation’s year-round programs include:

  • Family Camps & Summer Camps
  • Mentorship Retreats
  • Day Programs & Support Groups

These initiatives support over 700 children, youth, and families annually, providing crucial mental health services and social support for those most in need.


Your Impact: Transform Lives this Holiday Season

By attending or sponsoring this event, you’re giving children who often face emotional, social, and mental health challenges the chance to thrive, grow, and live authentically. The Laurel Foundation’s camps have provided life-changing experiences for thousands of kids who once felt isolated in their struggles with HIV/AIDS or gender identity.

As we celebrate the season of giving, let’s make a meaningful impact by ensuring every child has the opportunity to experience the joys of camp—and discover that they are not alone.


Special Recognition

In 2022, the Youth Empowerment Award was presented to Cher and Chaz Bono for their activism in supporting LGBTQ+ youth. Prior recipients include Jamie Lee Curtis. This year’s recipient will be announced soon—stay tuned for this exciting reveal!


Join Us in Making a Difference

Get your tickets today and be part of this magical holiday evening at the Dinah Shore Estate. With your support, we can continue to create spaces where children can feel safe, empowered, and celebrated.

Limited tickets available—secure yours now!


For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, visit our website. Together, let’s give the gift of joy, hope, and empowerment this holiday season. 

 

Save the Date: VinylFest at The Original Farmers Market

Save the Date: VinylFest at The Original Farmers Market –

Saturday, December 7, 2024

 

WHAT:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Join us for the inaugural VinylFest at the iconic Original Farmers Market  (3rd & Fairfax in Los Angeles) on Saturday, December 7th, 2024. This exciting event will celebrate the past, present, and future of vinyl music, DJ culture, and classic rock & roll by bringing together music lovers and music brands for a day filled with discovery, creativity, shopping, and a touch of holiday magic.

VinylFest features a curated mix of LA music institutions, major and indie record labels, old-school record retailers, limited-edition album releases, DJ products, rock-themed pinball machines, and rock photography. The event will take place at the Clock Tower Plaza, right next to The Grove Shopping Center.

Special attractions include an immersive DJ product display with Live DJ Vinyl sets from Alpha Theta (Pioneer Music); an opportunity to test your skills on rock-themed pinball machines from Stern Pinball; shop new and used records from Amoeba Music; vinyl listening stations from classic LA radio stationKCRW; rock photography exhibit from LA-based photog Jeff Kravitz; the return of legendary Santa Monica based House of Records; and much more.Save the date and stay tuned for more exciting details as we get closer to this must-attend event for vinyl lovers and music aficionados!

Details are subject to change

 

WHEN:

Saturday, December 7th  11a-7p

 

WHERE:

 

 

The Original Farmers Market Plaza

6333 W. Third Street

Los Angeles, CA 90036

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