Helicopter Tour of Los Angeles CA USA, Long Beach, California

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New California Laws Taking Effect Bring Major Changes for Drivers, Workers, and Consumers – NBC Palm Springs

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DVIDS – News – VA Long Beach celebrates opening of mental health facilities

LONG BEACH, Calif. – Department of Veterans Affairs’ officials celebrated the opening of two mental health facilities with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Aug. 28 at the Tibor Rubin VA Medical Center campus in Long Beach. The mental health buildings – constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Los Angeles District and its contractors – include an 80,000-square-foot outpatient facility and an 82,000-square-foot, 40-bed inpatient facility. “This day marks the start of a new era in mental health services at the VA Long Beach Healthcare System,” said Walt Dannenberg, VA Long Beach Medical Center director. “It is an honor for us to renew our commitment to serve veterans.” The Long Beach VA Mental Health System treats more than 20,000 veterans annually for mental health conditions. U.S. Marine veteran Christopher Scott Louie, who served from 2008 to 2012, including a deployment to Afghanistan, provided special remarks during the ceremony. “This center represents not just a structure, but a commitment to the wellbeing of the veterans and customers with the support and care we all try to provide,” he said. After arriving at the Long Beach VA in 2012, Louie said he began prioritizing his mental health, which also led to a passion for dog training. “The lessons I learned along the way have not only guided my professional path, but have also enriched my relationship with my wife, kids and my family,” he said, choking back tears. “For all of you here today, it is truly an honor to speak on behalf of those who have served and sacrificed for our country. Thank you for your dedication, compassion and supporting our veterans. Together, let us continue to foster a culture of healing and resilience.” Officials broke ground on the mental health facilities on Veterans Day – Nov. 11, 2018. The groundbreaking ceremony coincided with the medical center’s eighth annual Veterans Day celebration, which also commemorated 100 years since the end of World War I. Kevin Thomas, resident engineer with the USACE Los Angeles District’s Long Beach VA office, said this was the first project that USACE collaborated on with the Department of Veterans Affairs Construction and Facilities Management. “From a safety standpoint, this project became the model for how we manage safety on mega projects, not only in the Los Angeles District, but across the entire U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,” said Chris Rainwater, former chief of USACE Los Angeles District’s Safety and Occupational Health Office. “We implemented some innovative techniques – a true emphasis on partnership and collaboration, far beyond words, ensuring that a safety standard was enforced, and a safety culture was established. That has been revolutionary across the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. We are very proud of that.” Philip Serpa Jr., senior project manager with USACE Los Angeles District’s Long Beach VA office, has worked on the project since USACE awarded the contract in 2017. “A lot of hands have been on this project – a lot of hard work; a lot of effort,” he said. “This is a culmination of that – two beautiful buildings. It’s just a testament of the hard work for USACE and its partners with VA.” The Long Beach VA Healthcare System currently serves more than 50,000 veterans. “This is for them (the veterans),” Serpa said. “These facilities will serve them for many years now. I am very grateful to have worked on these from the very beginning and very happy that they are going to be used.” Consolidating the Long Beach VA mental health care facilities into two buildings will make it faster and easier for veterans to locate the services they need, said Dr. Larry Albers, chief of psychiatry and mental health at the VA Long Beach Healthcare System, who spoke during the ceremony. “To the veterans in attendance: ‘Welcome home.’” Albers said. “Thank you for your service. You are appreciated and deserve the highest quality care, and that is our goal.” USACE Los Angeles District also is working on a three-story, 181,000-square-foot Community Living Center at the VA Long Beach campus, which is designed to facilitate medical care for veterans in need of additional support, particularly aging veterans. The Community Living Center will be a 120-bed facility consisting of 10 patient units with 12 beds each. Once the new center is complete, USACE will demolish the existing Community Living Center at the campus. Source link

Inside the Best Resort Spa in Palm Springs | The Spa at Séc-he

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The Culinary Scene in LA: A Taste of the City of Angels

Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is a melting pot of cultures, and its culinary scene reflects this diversity. From food trucks to fine dining, the options are seemingly endless. However, beyond the well-trodden paths of popular eateries and Instagram-friendly spots lies a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these secrets will elevate your gastronomic experience in LA. 1. The Underground Dining Scene Hidden in plain sight, underground dining events offer a unique and intimate way to explore LA’s culinary creativity. These pop-up dinners are often hosted in private homes or unconventional spaces. Organizations like EatWith and Feastly connect diners with chefs who create multi-course meals focusing on specific cuisines, local ingredients, or avant-garde cooking techniques. Expect an interactive experience where you can engage with chefs and fellow diners, making it a perfect way to meet people and feast on extraordinary dishes. Tip: Check platforms regularly for upcoming events, as they can fill up quickly and often feature new themes. 2. Food Markets and Festivals While the famous Grand Central Market is well known, smaller food markets often go unnoticed. Places like Smorgasburg LA, held every Sunday, showcase a rotating roster of local vendors, offering everything from artisanal donuts to gourmet tacos. Furthermore, seasonal food festivals like the LA Street Food Festival celebrate the city’s rich street food culture with vendors serving up their best dishes. Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure you get the best dishes before they sell out. 3. Cultural Institutions with Culinary Delights Don’t overlook LA’s cultural institutions as dining destinations. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) houses several dining options, including Ray’s and Stark Bar, where you can enjoy contemporary Californian cuisine amidst your art exploration. The The Getty Center provides a spectacular backdrop for its restaurant, serving fresh, seasonal fare in a breathtaking setting. Tip: Visit during off-peak hours for a quieter experience and potentially better service. 4. Secret Menus and Speakeasy Bars Many LA eateries offer secret menus that aren’t advertised. Places like In-N-Out Burger are infamous for their “not-so-secret” secret menu. However, you can discover unique off-menu items at finer dining establishments as well. For instance, at Bestia, a renowned Italian restaurant, regulars often ask for the chef’s choice special that isn’t on the printed menu. After dinner, seek out speakeasy bars like The Varnish or Employees Only, where inventive cocktails are crafted behind hidden doors and dimly lit atmospheres. These venues often require a reservation or special knowledge to enter, adding to the intrigue. Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask your server for secret menu items; they often love to share insights. 5. Diverse Neighborhoods, Diverse Flavors Exploring neighborhoods beyond the typical tourist spots can lead to culinary discoveries. Zones like Koreatown offer authentic Korean BBQ and late-night eateries, while Little Ethiopia boasts some of the best injera and stews outside of Africa. Don’t miss out on the burgeoning Chinatown scene, where restaurants like Howlin’ Ray’s serve up Nashville-style hot chicken amidst a cultural backdrop rich in history and flavor. Tip: Consider crafting a food itinerary that helps you navigate neighborhoods, allowing you to taste a variety of cultures in one day. 6. Chef Collaborations and Local Collaborations Look for restaurants that feature chef collaborations. Many local chefs will host special evenings where they invite guests to join them in creating innovative menus. These events juxtapose different culinary styles and techniques, often leading to one-of-a-kind dining experiences. Spots like N/Naka, a Michelin-star sushi restaurant, frequently host guest chef nights that are both educational and delicious. Tip: Follow local food blogs and social media for announcements on newly scheduled collaborations. 7. Hidden Bakeries and Coffee Shops LA’s desserts and coffee culture also have their secrets. Bakeries like Benny’s in the Mid-Wilshire district create mouthwatering pastries that can easily be overlooked. Also, keep an eye out for small artisanal coffee shops that serve perfectly crafted brews, often overshadowed by larger chains. Neighborhood spots like Go Get ‘Em Tiger offer not just coffee, but creative breakfast and lunch options in a cozy setting. Tip: Take a “coffee crawl” to sample different flavors, regions, and brewing methods throughout various neighborhoods. Conclusion Los Angeles offers a culinary landscape that is as diverse as its residents, and its hidden gems often provide the most memorable experiences. By venturing off the beaten path and tapping into the underground dining scene, seasonal markets, and local favorites, you’ll find that the sweetness of LA’s culinary offerings extends far beyond the obvious. Pack your appetite and ready your taste buds for a gastronomic adventure that will leave you craving more. Whether you’re savoring the rich flavors of a perfectly cooked dish or discovering a hidden eatery, Los Angeles is sure to please every palate.