West Hollywood Man Charged With Killing Dog, Burglary of Former Roommate’s Home
Man brutally beaten in West Hollywood Park after leaving nearby bar
Burbank Mayor Faces Backlash Over Playful
Video, Cites Critics Anti-LGBTQ+ Bias
Victim says that nearby Security Ambassadors did not intervene.
Mayor Konstantine Anthony Defends Actions Amid
Controversy Over Video
An assault in West Hollywood park left a man injured early Thursday after a confrontation escalated, according to multiple media reports.
By Dolores Quintana
27-Year-Old Suspect Faces Animal Cruelty and Burglary Charges
After a Violent Attack
The man, identified as Saint and described as a Fairfax District resident, told investigators he was leaving a bar near the Abbey when he encountered a woman in the park shortly before the attack. He said the woman suddenly charged toward him and began swinging at him after insulting him.
Burbank Mayor Konstantine Anthony is facing criticism from conservatives following the circulation of a video showing him being spanked by a drag queen during an event on the weekend of September 10. Anthony has responded that some of his critics are motivated by anti-LGBTQ+ bias and that the incident was harmless.
Video recorded by a passing driver captured part of the attack, showing additional people joining the woman and knocking the victim to the ground. Saint said he was kicked and stomped repeatedly in the head and body while on the ground.
Prosecutors have filed multiple felony charges against a 27-year-old man accused of breaking into his former roommate’s West Hollywood apartment, killing the victim’s small dog, and damaging property during the incident.
In the video, posted by the Wisenuts podcast, Mayor Anthony is seen being spanked by a drag artist, backed by the Village People’s “Macho Man.” Anthony described the events as “shenanigans” and emphasized that it was
Anmol Bhatia faces one count each of first-degree residential burglary, felony animal cruelty, and vandalism involving more than $400 in damage. Prosecutors have also alleged that the victim, who is at least 65 years old, was particularly
all in good fun. He went on to reveal that a secretly recorded video was made during the event and subsequently shared with a
In a post on his Instagram account, Anthony stated, “For several days, extremist right-wing organizations, including Fox News, have spread misleading information to fuel fear, discrimination, and hate. I will always be a proud supporter of the LGBTQ+ community
The victim said he attempted to call 911, but his phone was taken by the attackers during the incident.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said deputies responded to a report of a fight in the area. No arrests had been announced as of early Friday.
He added, “On a busy Saturday filled with various independent gatherings, I attended the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats’ private fundraiser for their organization. Notably, there were no officially endorsed candidates or state and federal political figures present. The event was open to young adults ages 15 and above. However, there were no attendees below 18. Additionally, no children were present.”
you about it. There is no reason to involve all of the other people who were not at a public event, not at a government-sponsored event. It wasn’t even in the city of Burbank.”
Mayor Anthony reiterated this point during a City Council meeting and expressed his concern that the video’s circulation had led to city officials receiving “some of the most vile hate speech that I have ever seen.”
Sheriff’s Station, which responded to the incident. The City of West Hollywood condemns all forms of violence in our community. Everyone who lives, works, and visits West Hollywood deserves to feel safe.”
Federal
indictment follows
A city spokesperson said members of West Hollywood’s Security Ambassadors program were present in the vicinity and, in a statement, added, “West Hollywood Security Ambassadors were onsite and immediately contacted the West Hollywood
While not specifying the particular hate group in question, it is possible that Anthony was referring to the Twitter account, now known as X, called “Libs of TikTok,” which
vulnerable and that Bhatia knew or should have known this at the time of the crime.
The attack occurred around 11:30 p.m. on September 4, when Bhatia allegedly forced his way into the apartment. Investigators said video evidence shows him violently slamming the dog to the ground, stomping on it, and then throwing the lifeless animal off a balcony onto a nearby construction site, where it was
Anthony encouraged those with concerns about his actions to communicate with him directly via email at kanthony@burbankca. gov. He stated, “If you want to talk to me about what happened over the weekend, send me an email. Send me an email. I will talk to
Saint said that no one intervened, including the Security Ambassadors, but one ambassador got a photo of the attacker's license plate.
later found dead. Authorities also accuse Bhatia of vandalizing property inside the home before fleeing.
Beverly Hills police arrested Bhatia on September 21 following a two-week search.
He was arraigned on Tuesday at the Airport Courthouse and entered a not guilty plea. Bail was set at $175,000, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for
October 9.
Saint suffered bruises, cuts, and other injuries but did not require hospitalization, according to his account. He said he does not believe he was specifically targeted and described the encounter as unprovoked. A GoFundMe has been launched to help him replace his stolen property, pursue legal remedies, and get treatment for his injuries.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats voiced their support for Mayor Anthony and strongly denounced the sensationalized and inaccurate portrayal of their event for political purposes that promoted fear, homophobia, transphobia, and bigotry. The Democrats reaffirmed their commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and drag performers, refusing to engage with what they referred to as “fake outrage.”
If convicted on all counts, Bhatia could face up to seven years and eight months in state prison.
Anyone with information about the attack is asked to call 310-855-8850.
Journalist Don Lemon Arrested in Beverly Hills in Connection With Minnesota Church Protest
Bomb Threat Temporarily Halts “Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero” Premiere at
The case is being handled by the Animal Cruelty Section of the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and remains under investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, West Hollywood Station.
Premiere of Documentary Was Screened After 20-Minute
Delay
By Dolores Quintana
his reporting on an Anti-ICE protest; Lemon released without bond after court appearance
for Sunday, according to a social media post from Attorney General Pam Biondi. Lemon was formerly a CNN anchor but now hosts The Don Lemon Show live on his YouTube channel.
Thomson Hall, where the documentary was set to be screened.
Sheriffs Say a Man Was Arrested After Allegedly Exposing Himself to a Woman
The premiere of “Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero” at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) faced a momentary setback on Saturday night due to a bomb threat.
Detectives with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department West Hollywood Station are asking for the public’s help in identifying additional victims following the arrest of a man accused of indecent exposure.
Independent journalist Don Lemon was taken into federal custody overnight, nearly two weeks after his presence at a protest that disrupted a church service in St. Paul, Minnesota, authorities said.
Lung stated, “Our standard security measures remained in place during this time, and the screening commenced with a slight delay. To our knowledge, this was a general threat and not directed at the film or the artist.”
with an incident that occurred on Sept. 19, 2025. Investigators said Harrington allegedly approached a woman inside a laundry room and exposed himself before leaving the area. No further confrontation was reported.
Federal authorities said a grand jury was empaneled on Thursday. The arrest involved the FBI and Homeland Security Investigations, an agency within the Department of Homeland Security, according to sources. Lemon said that the DOJ sent a team of federal agents to arrest him in the middle of the night.
WeHo LASD Detectives Seek Possible Additional Victims After Indecent Exposure Arrest
A spokesperson for the Toronto police informed CTV News Toronto that the threat had been conveyed to the festival’s private security by a passerby. “Out of an abundance of caution, the Toronto police and the private
security swept the scene and cleared it within 20 minutes,” noted Constable Victor Kwong. Toronto police also clarified that the threat had a general nature and did not specifically target any individual or entity.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Judy Lung, TIFF’s Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications, confirmed to CTV News Toronto via a written statement that the festival was alerted to an investigation “in the vicinity of the red carpet” at Roy
Lemon appeared in federal court in Los Angeles on Friday afternoon and was released on his own recognizance without bond. He did not enter a plea. His next court appearance is scheduled for Feb. 9 in federal court in Minneapolis.
Lemon was arrested early Friday at the Beverly Hills Hotel while in the city to cover the Grammy Awards, scheduled
Jackie Harrington was taken into custody on Sept. 28, 2025, in connection
Authorities believe there may be other victims who have not yet come forward. Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact West Hollywood Station Detectives at 310-855-8850. Tips may also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 800-222-TIPS (8477), using the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or visiting lacrimestoppers.org.
The charges stem from a protest in January in which demonstrators entered Cities Church in St. Paul after learning that one of the pastors was affiliated with
The investigation remains ongoing.
According to court documents, Lemon and eight co-defendants were indicted on one count each of conspiracy against religious freedom and interfering with the exercise of religious freedom at a place of worship.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement shared on social media that Lemon and three co-defendants
were arrested “in connection with the coordinated attack on Cities Church.” Those co-defendants were identified as Jamael Lydell Lundy, Trahern Jeen Crews, and Georgia Ellyse Fort. Federal authorities have now arrested at least seven of the nine individuals charged in the case. Other defendants arrested in recent days
West Hollywood Locks In Dates for 2026 Pride Celebration
Three-day pride celebration returns with parades, festivals, and concerts.
with the annual LGBTQ+ event scheduled to run across three days in early June, city officials announced.
WeHo Pride Weekend 2026 will take place Friday, June 5; Saturday, June 6; and Sunday, June 7, with events centered in and around West Hollywood Park at 647 N. San Vicente Boulevard.
City officials said the weekend will feature a mix of free and ticketed programming, including a street fair, the
It seems like the battle for equality never ends, and that’s certainly true for health care.
Access to health care has long been an equality issue for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) Americans.
Look at the facts. Prior to the A ordable Care Act, or Obamacare, studies show that nearly 27 percent of transgender people and 7.7 percent of lesbian, gay and bisexual people said they were refused needed medical care.
Covered California refuses to accept that. The battle for equality is part of our history, and our e orts continue to this day.
Women’s Freedom Festival, the Dyke March, and the WeHo Pride Parade. The lineup will also include the OUTLOUD at WeHo Pride music festival and its openingnight event, Friday Night at OUTLOUD.
Additional details for WeHo Pride Weekend 2026, as well as information about the annual WeHo Pride Arts Festival, are expected to be released in the coming
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include Nekima Levy Armstrong, a former president of the Twin Cities NAACP chapter; Chauntyll Louisa Allen, a member of the St. Paul School Board; and William Kelly, according to officials.
Lemon’s attorney, Abbe Lowell, criticized the Justice Department’s actions, saying prosecutors were prioritizing Lemon’s arrest rather than investigating the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, who were killed by federal agents during protests in Minnesota earlier this month and added, “This unprecedented attack on the First Amendment and transparent attempt to distract attention from the many crises facing this administration will not stand. Don will fight these charges vigorously and thoroughly in court.”
A federal magistrate judge had previously declined to approve arrest warrants for Lemon and four others connected to the protest, ruling that prosecutors had not presented sufficient evidence at that time. The Justice Department later pursued additional legal action, leading to the indictments.
Senior Justice Department officials have argued that Lemon’s role as a journalist does not exempt him from criminal prosecution. Lemon said, during brief remarks after his release, "The First Amendment of the Constitution protects that work for me and of countless other journalists who do what I do. I stand with all of them, and I will not be silenced. I look forward to my day in court."
Now is the time to explore your options. It’s Open Enrollment, which means you can shop and compare health insurance plans at COVEREDCA.COM and choose the one that works for you and your budget. Open Enrollment runs through Jan. 31.
Covered California is the only place where Californians who qualify can get nancial assistance on a sliding scale to reduce premium costs. Depending on your income, you may qualify for the low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal program.
This year, nearly 10,000 Covered California enrollees self-identi ed as gay or lesbian, bisexual, queer, or another sexual orientation, and nearly 2,400 enrollees self-identi ed as non-binary or another gender identity, or as transgender.
That’s more than 12,000 Californians who felt con dent being openly themselves, knowing that doing so will not get them denied care.
This year, it’s time to take action. Getting health insurance is the rst step toward protecting your physical, mental, and nancial health. All health insurance plans o ered through Covered California provide access to leading doctors, hospitals and specialists across California and includes essential health bene ts — from preventive care and maternity care to mental health services and emergency coverage. Plans also include prevention, treatment, and care for HIV/AIDS.
Learn more about your options at COVEREDCA.COM, see if you qualify for nancial help and compare health plans in your area. You can also get free and con dential assistance by phone, in a variety of languages from more than 14,000 certi ed agents and community-based organizations throughout the state that provide help in whatever language you prefer, or call Covered California at (800) 300-1506 for assistance in English or (800) 300-0213 for help in Spanish.
Covered California is your ally in the ght for equality in health care. Join us and start the new year with a healthy foundation.
Mary & Robbs: A Timeless Westwood Diner With
Sizzling Roots
One of the oldest continually operating American diners on the Westside, founded by husband-and-wife duo Mary and Robbs Singleton in 1947, continues to preserve the authentic diner experience and deliver outstanding customer service.
In a city where restaurants come and go, Mary & Robb’s remains a constant — complete with hearty portions, familiar favorites and the kind of service that keeps families coming back.
With a menu rooted in consistency, Mary & Robbs Westwood Cafe is held together by tradition, loyalty and the simple promise
of good food at the right price.
The menu strikes a careful balance between classic diner staples — chili dogs, burgers, New York steak and eggs — and thoughtful variety. Alongside the return of a German hot dog served on a French roll are turkey, veggies, impossible and salmon burgers, corned beef and mushroom burgers: something for every appetite. While dining for breakfast or brunch, enjoy unlimited bottomless mimosas with colorful flavors including pomegranate, cucumber, mango, watermelon, peach or blueberry.
Mary & Robbs began as a charming neighborhood soda shop in the late 1940s where locals gathered for simple treats and conversation. By the late 60s, it had grown into a full-service restaurant, cementing its role as a Westwood favorite for heart meals and friendly service.
As time would have it, ownership has changed twice since its initial opening, but its Westwood legacy has remained remarkably intact for decades.
“For generations, families have enjoyed Mary & Robbs and its authentic diner experience. Passing down this tradition is the longtime commitment of our chef who has served the same, well-loved meals that everyone loves for the last 40 years,” said Roozbeh Farahanipour, the current owner
Authorities Respond to Report of Death at Bus Stop in West Hollywood
Deputies respond to early morning call near La Brea Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard.
Authorities are investigating the death of a woman whose body was discovered at a bus stop in West Hollywood early Wednesday morning.
That sense of family is evident the moment you walk through the door. On weekdays and weekends alike, people fill the booths — students, longtime residents, families, and visitors all sharing the same space. The pace is unpretentious and welcoming, with staff who remember faces, orders, and stories.
To Roozbeh, this restaurant feels like coming home. Hearty breakfasts, classic
comfort plates and friendly smiles make every visit special. Whether you’re grabbing a quick take-out meal or settling in for a relaxed brunch, Mary & Robbs Westwood Cafe invites you to experience good food, genuine service and the spirit of a classic American diner.
Mary & Robbs Westwood Cafe is open every day from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. at 1455 Westwood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90024. The restaurant can be reached by phone at 310-478-3822. Menus can be found online.
Los Angeles County sheriff’s deputies responded to a report shortly after 6:30 a.m. at the intersection of La Brea Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard, near a Target store, the department said.
Officials have not released details about the circumstances leading to the woman’s death. The case is not being treated as a homicide, according to information reported by KTLA.
No additional information about the woman’s identity or cause of death was immediately available.
of Mary & Robbs since 2020. “We are proud to call our staff family.”
Alpine Floor and Home: A Family Flooring Legacy Serving the Westside Since 1968
Founded in 1968, Alpine Floor and Home has proudly served the Westside of Los Angeles for more than 58 years, earning a reputation as one of the area’s most trusted and established flooring companies. Built on quality craftsmanship, honest guidance, and longstanding customer relationships, Alpine Floor and Home
continues to thrive as a proud family business.
Johannes van Ierland, the owner of Alpine Floor and Home, has played a central role in guiding the company through decades of growth and change. His leadership, experience, and commitment to high standards have helped shape Alpine into the respected Westside institution it is today. While Johannes now works primarily in the back office, his presence and oversight ensure that the company’s core values remain firmly in place.
Today, Alpine Floor and Home is led by a true father-and-son team. Jani van Ierland, Johannes’ son, runs all sales operations and serves as Vice President of Sales and Marketing. In this role, Jani oversees dayto-day sales, customer relationships, and marketing strategy. By combining modern design knowledge and forward-thinking sales practices with the traditions of a familyrun business, Jani continues to build on the company’s strong foundation.
For over five decades, Alpine Floor and Home has served homeowners, designers, builders, and commercial clients throughout
LGBTQ center in Southeast LA clears 125 bags of dog waste from awning
Center leaders say surveillance shows dumping over months, police say it is not vandalism.
Workers at an LGBTQ community center in Southeast Los Angeles spent part of Wednesday removing dozens of bags of dog waste from the building after months of repeated incidents. The man responsible has been throwing the dog waste on the center’s awning at least since August 2025.
Staff at Mi SELA, located on Florence Avenue in the city of Bell, said they cleared 125 bags of dog feces from the center’s awning. Executive Director Eddie Martinez told KNX News that surveillance footage shows the same individual walking a dog past the building each morning and tossing a bag of waste onto the structure. https://www.instagram.com/p/ DTgyhyMCd_X/?hl=en
According to Mi SELA, video footage has allowed staff to identify a person believed to be responsible. However, Los Angeles Police Department officials have told the center that the behavior does not rise to the level of criminal prosecution under current standards.
Bell Police Chief Damian Velasco addressed the situation during a news conference and confirmed that officers made contact with a subject on Wednesday morning. The police will be investigating to see if the action meets the standard of a hate crime.
Westside of Los Angeles. The company is known for offering the largest inventory of carpet, wood, laminate, and luxury vinyl tile, providing customers with unmatched selection in styles, colors, and price ranges. In addition to traditional flooring, Alpine Floor and Home also specializes in concrete refinishing, offering durable and contemporary solutions for residential and commercial spaces.
A point of pride that truly sets Alpine Floor and Home apart is its installation team. All installers are full-time employees on payroll—never subcontractors. Many members of Alpine’s installation crews have been with the company for more than 20 years, bringing unmatched experience, consistency, and accountability to every job.
This long-tenured team ensures high-quality workmanship, reliable scheduling, and peace of mind for customers from start to finish.
At its heart, Alpine Floor and Home remains a family-owned and operated business. Many customers are long-time and multi-generation clients, a testament to the trust and relationships built since 1968. Personalized service, attention to detail, and integrity continue to define every project, large or small.
As Alpine Floor and Home looks toward the future, its mission remains unchanged: to provide exceptional products, expert guidance, and dependable service to the Westside community. Or, as the company’s long-standing slogan proudly says, “Let us floor you.”
the
Planning Ahead: A Final Gift of Love
For many people, conversations about the end of life feel distant, uncomfortable, or easy to postpone.
There always seems to be more time — more trips to take, more milestones to reach, more moments are still waiting to unfold.
That’s what Shirley believed, too.
She and her husband had built a life full of love, laughter and shared adventures. They raised their children together, traveled whenever they could, and cherished celebrating holidays and family events. Like many couples, they never spoke about what would happen “someday.”
Loss felt far away. Time felt endless. Until it wasn’t.
When her husband passed unexpectedly, Shirley found herself facing dozens of decisions she had never imagined making alone. In the midst of her grief, she wanted one thing above all else: for his farewell to reflect who he truly was — not to be defined by his death, but by the life he lived.
When the unexpected time came, she knew she would find comfort and clarity with the professionals at Hillside Memorial Park and Mortuary.
Hillside is known as a Jewish and interfaith cemetery, deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and values. Its mortuary proudly serves families of all faiths, beliefs, and backgrounds.
From the moment Shirley arrived, she felt welcomed, heard and supported. She met with one of Hillside’s Family Service Counselors, who didn’t rush her or overwhelm her with logistics. Instead, they listened.
Shirley shared stories about her husband’s devotion to their children, his curiosity about the world and his love of travel. She laughed through tears as she recalled his sense of humor and the way he always made strangers feel like friends. Through these conversations, a service began to take shape. Not as a checklist of tasks, but as a heartfelt tribute. Family and friends gathered to celebrate a life well lived, offering stories, comfort and connection. In that shared space, Shirley felt assured, surrounded by love and reminded she was not alone.
In the quiet moments that followed, Shirley realized something she hadn’t expected: how much easier this journey could have been if the plans had already been made.
With so many decisions required in such a short time, she saw the value of planning ahead — not for herself, but for her children. She didn’t want them to face the same uncertainty, stress and emotional weight she had carried.
So, Shirley made a choice. She met with Hillside again. This time to thoughtfully plan her own final arrangements. With time, clarity and guidance, she was able to express and document what mattered to her: her values, her wishes, and how she wanted her life to be remembered.
Now, she carries a sense of peace knowing her children will one day be spared difficult decisions, free to focus on love and remembrance instead.
Today, Shirley has returned to her routine. She goes to her weekly bridge class, meets friends for coffee and continues to honor her husband’s memory in quiet, meaningful ways. When she thinks about the future, she feels calm and secure, comforted by the thought that one day, she will rest beside the man she loved so deeply.
Planning ahead, she learned, isn’t about preparing for loss. It’s about protecting the people you love.
At Hillside Memorial Park and Mortuary, advance planning is viewed as an act of compassion — a way to honor your life, your values and the family you leave behind.
Whether rooted in Jewish tradition or
guided by other faiths and beliefs, every family is supported with dignity, care and respect.
“When we plan ahead, we spare our loved ones from making difficult decisions in moments of deep emotion,” says Rafael Ochoa, Hillside’s General Manager. “It’s a simple gift: clarity instead of chaos, peace instead of pressure, and space for healing when it matters most.”
With thoughtful guidance, families can make meaningful choices about services, traditions and personal touches that reflect a life’s story. These conversations, held in calm moments rather than times of crisis, allow wishes to be honored with intention and love.
For Shirley — and for many others — planning ahead becomes a final gift of love.
Where Santa Monica Plant Lovers Go for TLC: Urban Jungle
Tucked in the quiet yet vibrant spaces of your home may be plants quietly yearning for attention.
Access to yards and green space is often limited in Los Angeles. The plants that help you create a lush, calming environment in your apartment, condo or balcony, need to feel appreciated.
What better way to show them some TLC than to take them to Urban Jungle Plants and Pottery, a place where plant lovers gather to share stories, tips and their love for all things green.
Let’s give back to the plants that give so much to us.
Think of it as a reset. For you and your plants.
COMMUNICATION
Plants are nonverbal communicators that require observation.
Are their leaves yellowing? Roots peaking out at the bottom? Dust on the foliage? Have they outgrown their pot? Do they need a little TLC?
Urban Jungle specializes in this care: properly dressing and recommending the most accurate water dosage, light and placement for your plants.
More importantly, it’s a nursery that
brings life back into your plants.
The belief that a well-fitted pot, in addition to observation, proper water, light and placement, is core to indoor and outdoor TLC for your plants.
LOVE LANGUAGE
The foundation of your plants — the pottery that holds the root system in place and enables it to thrive — matters.
Because not all pots are created equal, the right one can make all the difference between a plant that survives and one that truly thrives.
Urban Jungle carries a thoughtfully curated mix of pottery. Various sizes, colors and styles, designed specifically for urban dwellers. Its selection includes pottery from local artist Ken Morris, a member of Echo Art Studio.
“We are honored to be a part of (Urban Jungle) … many retailers sell mass produced pots, but Urban Jungle also sells a range of handmade high fire pots with unique glazes and added hand applied features,” Morris said.
Helping plant lovers re-pot is the nursery’s love language.
The team will help you choose the perfect pot, make sure it has proper drainage, and do the hard work for you — fresh soil, room to grow and a clean transition.
Load up your plants, grab a coffee or tea, and spend a little time giving them what they’ve been giving you — quiet joy, better air and a sense of home.
SLOWING DOWN
While perusing Urban Jungle’s
Welcome to Urban Jungle
Immerse yourself in a sanctuary where nature’s tranquility meets the vibrancy of city life. Urban Jungle is more than a plant store it’s a communitycentered oasis bringing a lush slice of paradise to your urban lifestyle. Here, we passionately believe in the power of plants to transform spaces and elevate well-being.
character- and quality-rich selection of hand thrown and small-batch pottery, you may find yourself slowing down and reeling into the experience.
For urban dwellers, pots make plant life possible and better. Pairing your plant with an intentionally chosen piece of pottery is a steadfast ritual that plant lovers know well. The experience engages the senses on multiple levels.
First, it’s the natural, outdoor aroma of Urban Jungle that makes you feel present. Looking around, there may be one, or a few different pots that draw you in for a closer view. Does the color shift in the light? Are the shapes balanced or dramatic?
Then, you can’t just look — you have to feel.
Touching the pot allows you to examine its quality, and understand its origins from the texture, weight and shape. You may recognize subtle ridges left by the potters’ hands and allow yourself to imagine how it would look at home.
Locally sculpted pottery — made with care and connection — makes the shopping experience that much more personal and grounding as you imagine growth, balance and beauty. For you and your plants.
The right pot feels right.
Visit Urban Jungle at 3113 Lincoln Boulevard in Santa Monica. Follow the nursery on Instagram @ urbanjungleplantsandpottery. To see more pottery and sculpture work by local artist Ken Morris, follow @dodgypots on Instagram.
Westside gardener self-deports after ICE detention, community rallies to help family
Neighbors raise money after landscaper with serious health issues leaves the U.S.
Westside residents are raising money and seeking legal guidance for a longtime Los Angeles gardener who self-deported to Mexico after being detained by federal immigration agents while working in the neighborhood, as reported by NBC 4 News and KTLA.
Alberto Cabral, 73, was taken into custody by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on Jan. 7 while working in a yard, according to neighbors and clients. Cabral came to the United States from Mexico as a teenager and has lived in the Los Angeles area for nearly six decades. People close to him said he has no remaining family or support system in Mexico.
Cabral built a steady landscaping business over decades, working for households in Westwood, West Hollywood, and the Hollywood Hills. Clients said he became a familiar, trusted presence on local blocks
and that he showed up week after week, often to the same homes for years.
Neighbors and clients said Cabral has serious medical conditions, including heart disease and diabetes, and relies on multiple daily medications, including a blood thinner prescribed to reduce the risk of stroke. In recent weeks, they said, Cabral continued to work despite significant injuries, including fractures to his lower leg and tailbone. He also had an open wound on his lower leg, which supporters said raised concerns about infection and complications associated with diabetes.
A homeowner who witnessed the detention said Cabral asked agents to handle him carefully because of his injuries.
Family members and neighbors said Cabral was the primary source of income and caregiver for his 97-year-old mother and his 70-year-old wife, both of whom live in Los Angeles and depend on him financially and emotionally.
Supporters said Cabral chose selfdeportation after his detention and ongoing medical concerns. Neighbors said they fear his health could worsen if his care and medications are interrupted and that they are working with an immigration attorney to better understand what options may still
be available.
Community members started a GoFundMe to help Cabral’s family manage
expenses in his absence, describing him as a fixture in the neighborhood and someone they considered part of the community.
Ocean Seven Builders: A Family Legacy Built on Trust, Craftsmanship
For
Ron Mor, construction and roofing is more than a profession.
Growing up, he learned the trade working alongside his father who taught him everything — renovation, remodels and roofing — which led him to continue on this path as an adult.
In 1994, Ocean Seven Builders, a family-owned construction company serving Los Angeles, Orange County, Santa Clarita and Ventura County, was born. The company specializes in residential and commercial remodeling, including bathroom and kitchen remodels, custom cabinetry, room additions, ADU garage conversion and roofing.
As time would have it, Ron’s father passed away.
From that moment on, Ocean Seven Builders wasn’t just a business anymore. It was a continuation of his father’s legacy, but also a chance for Ron to create his own legacy.
“When my dad passed, it changed how I looked at the business,” Ron says. “It became more personal. It’s not just something I do — it’s something I live.”
That sense of purpose still defines Ocean Seven Builders today: a company built on responsibility, respect and attention to detail.
CHOOSING A NAME
The name “Ocean Seven” reflects Ron’s personal philosophy as much as it does the company’s identity. The ocean has always held a spiritual meaning for Ron, symbolizing movement, depth and calm. Seven is a longtime favorite number.
“It’s not random. It’s something I felt,” Ron says.
Ron believes construction is not purely mechanical. Each project requires trust, communication and an understanding of the people behind the plans. Making clients feel comfortable and confident is a priority, he says.
“We bring feeling into the business. Customer service, effort and care matter just as much as the technical work,” Ron says. “When clients are comfortable, everything is more seamless.”
FULL SERVICE APPROACH
Ocean Seven Builders is a B-licensed general contractor and a C-39 roofing contractor, allowing the company to offer a wide range of residential services.
Remodels, new construction, room additions, accessory dwelling units and custom homes are some of the ways the company has been transforming homes and businesses for the last three decades.
“From initial consultation to project completion, every decision and step in the process is managed with honesty, expertise
and our unwavering commitment to quality,” Ron says.
Ocean Seven Builders employs about 10 in-house staff members and works with a network of subcontractors, many who have partnered with the company for years. Every staff member and subcontractor brings a desirable level of experience, consistency and accountability to each project.
From carefully reviewing site plans to managing crews and timelines, Ron says that technical skill must be paired with professionalism. Choosing the right people — both employees and subcontractors — is essential to the company’s commitment to quality and trust.
“Choosing the right people for certain jobs is critical. There’s a lot of responsibility in this work,” Ron says. “When people feel comfortable with their contractor, the entire process changes for the better.”
BUILDING LONG-TERM CLIENTS
Ocean Seven Builders has become a trusted name in Los Angeles for its commitment to excellence, professionalism and superior custom service.
With decades of experience and a solid reputation, Ocean Seven Builders navigates regulations and construction challenges with certainty. Over the last three decades, Ocean Seven Builders has built a roster of long-term and repeat clients and has been featured in Southern California publications.
Ron credits his company’s reputation and achievements to the team’s effective communication, attention to detail and dedication to craftsmanship.
“Every detail matters. I’m very proud of my team,” Ron says. “Our company is rooted in integrity and care — something I learned from my father”.
CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE
For homeowners looking to expand, customize, remodel or add, Ocean Seven
Builders is a trusted name and company that is committed to excellence and craftsmanship.
“We stand behind our work,” Ron says.
To learn more about Ocean Seven Builders, or to schedule a consultation for construction or roofing needs, visit OceanSevenBuilders.com.
Fire Recovery, One House at a Time: West Hollywood Home Heads to Altadena
The
house was moved across L.A. to help replace a home lost in the
wildfire
The historic home we reported on in November is getting a second life after being transported from West Hollywood to Altadena to help replace a residence destroyed in the Eaton fire.
The four-bedroom house, originally built in 1926, was moved from 855 N. Orlando Ave. to a site near Glenrose Avenue and Pine Street, where the Martinez family lost their home in the wildfire. The relocation was coordinated by Los Angeles–based Omgivning Architects, which has previously overseen similar moves for fire survivors.
The approximately 2,300-square-foot structure was disassembled and divided into two sections to make the journey possible. Omgivning said the first half of the home was transported last weekend, with the second portion moved overnight on Thursday, Jan. 15.
The relocation route carried the
structure along Santa Monica Boulevard, through downtown Los Angeles, past City Hall, and onward through El Sereno and Pasadena before reaching Altadena.
Once placed at the new site, the home will require a new foundation, reassembly, and permitting before it can be occupied.
Omgivning said the Martinez family is expected to be able to move in within about six months, depending on construction timelines and permit approvals.
The firm said it has additional homes prepared for relocation in the coming months and maintains a waiting list of roughly 250 households seeking to be matched with available structures. You can reach the Historic House Relocation Project (whether obtaining or donating a house) by reaching out to Omgivning at HouseRelocation@Omgivning.com or 213-596-5602.
Salt & Straw’s Valentine’s-ready ice cream is inspired by artisan chocolatiers
Chocolate takes the spotlight in Salt & Straw’s new limitedtime series.
Salt & Straw is introducing a new limited-time ice cream collection for February that draws inspiration from classic chocolate assortments, partnering with several well-known American chocolatiers to translate their confections into frozen form.
The Chocolatiers Series will be available at Salt & Straw scoop shops beginning Friday, Jan. 30. The release features five distinct flavors designed to reflect the styles and philosophies of bean-to-bar chocolate makers from across the United States.
The collection was developed by Salt & Straw co-founder Tyler Malek, who leads the company’s flavor innovation, in collaboration with chocolatiers he has worked with and admired over the years. Each flavor reimagines a traditional chocolate or dessert through an ice cream lens.
Among the offerings is the Chocolate Almond Gold Bar, which incorporates pieces of almond caramel chocolate from Seattle-based Fran’s Chocolates into salted vanilla ice cream layered with burnt caramel and dark chocolate stracciatella. Cake Batter Chocolate Fudge, created with Los Angeles chocolatier Jonathan Grahm of Compartés, pairs cake batter ice cream and rainbow sprinkles with swirls of brown butter chocolate fudge. The lineup also includes Chocolate Toasted Buttermilk Torte, inspired by the Nest Bar from Portland’s Cloudforest and built on Oregon-honey milk chocolate frozen yogurt with toasted-buttermilk fudge, graham cracker crumbles, and chocolate cake. Raspberry White Chocolate Cheesecake pays homage to Stick With Me’s cheesecake bonbon from New York, blending white chocolate
cream cheese ganache, graham cracker crumbs, and raspberry jam into a raspberry-strawberry ice cream.
Rounding out the series is Cocoa Nib Root Beer Float, a vegan flavor made with cocoa nib root beer sorbet and ribbons of 70% Ecuadorian dark chocolate fudge, developed in collaboration with San Francisco’s Dandelion Chocolate.
Alongside the ice cream release, Salt & Straw is also debuting a Salted Brownie Waffle Cone. The cone is made with house-prepared brownie batter lightly seasoned with sea salt and pressed into the company’s signature waffle cone.
The Chocolatiers Series arrives ahead of Valentine’s Day, and just in time for Valentine’s gift planning.
