NOVEMBER 8TH, 2024

^{Updated CuratedLA 2025 Media Kit}

FRIDAY’S VIBES

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FRIDAY. MADE IT 🤙 Quick Updates Before Good Vibes:

• Another jam-packed CuratedLA coming at you this Friday! A couple of fun, quick CuratedLA updates before we start good vibes for this Veterans Day Weekend.

  • 💻️ 2025 Media Kit Update: Now available! Perfect for Curators in creative, marketing, business, + entertainment wanting to collab with us.

  • 💼 CuratedLA Job Board: Returning soon with LA, SoCal, and remote/hybrid listings. Free job postings for brands; email us to share - morningstart@curatedla.xyz. Live after Thanksgiving.

  • 🤝 New Referral Program: Refer friends, earn swag from the CuratedLA Store, and even enter to win a digital rebrand for a business of your choice, courtesy of Bob Vance, Vance Refrig….Curations Creative.

• That was quick. Now, onto today’s good vibes. And a sincere thank you to all + their families that have served our Great Country. Happy Veterans Day (Monday). - Wyatt

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HOV LANES

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EATS

HEADLINES

Chicken Guy! on Instagram

HOLLYWOOD 🐔 Honoring Service with Flavor: Veterans x Free Meals

• This Monday on Veterans Day, Chicken Guy! in Hollywood invites veterans to enjoy a complimentary meal as a gesture of gratitude for their service. OPn Monday, veterans who present a valid military ID can choose from popular favorites, including The OG Sandwich, The CG Classic, or a Three-Piece Tenders meal with two signature sauces. Founded by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, Chicken Guy! promises bold flavors and quality ingredients, making this offer a delicious way to celebrate those who've served.

Pink’s Hotdogs on Instagram

HOLLYWOOD 🌭 Pink’s Celebrates 85 Years with Iconic Chili Dogs for Charity:

• Hollywood staple Pink’s Hot Dogs marks its 85th anniversary with a week of festivities, running today - Tuesday (November 12th). The anniversary features 85-cent chili dogs for charity each night. The special pricing kicks off daily at 8:05pm for 85 minutes, limited to five chili dogs per customer, with 100% of proceeds supporting Los Angeles charities. Local icons, including Mayor Karen Bass, George Lopez, Gabriel Iglesias, Henry Winkler, and a mystery guest tomorrow (Saturday, November 9th), will join to commemorate the occasion at Pink’s Square on La Brea. This Hollywood landmark, which began as a $50 pushcart in 1939, has grown into a beloved L.A. institution, with fans ranging from locals to celebrities, all celebrating a legacy that’s now a firm part of LA’s culinary landscape.

OPENINGS

Randy’s Donuts Grand Opening: November 19th 💌 

CULVER CITY 🍩 Randy’s Donuts Lands with Sweet Opening November 19th:

• Iconic LA staple Randy’s Donuts is bringing its legendary treats to Culver City! Swing by the new location at 4114 Sepulveda Blvd on November 19th for a full day of festivities, starting bright and early at 6:00am. From 6:00am to noon, visitors can snag a free glazed donut while supplies last. Beyond the sweets, Randy’s will run a raffle throughout the week, with four lucky winners receiving $250 gift cards. Known for its famous giant rooftop donut and over sixty varieties of hand-made donuts, Randy’s brings a taste of LA history to its newest community hub. 💌 

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

Lodge Bread Co. on Instagram

BEVERLY HILLS + PASADENA 🍞 Lodge Bread Expands, Two Local Openings:

• Lodge Bread, the celebrated LA bakery known for its naturally-leavened loaves and hearty sandwiches, is on the move. Starting November 22nd, the team will welcome customers to a new, larger space in Beverly Hills at 295 South Robertson Boulevard, relocating from its original Pico spot. Fans can stop by the Pico location until November 17th for a final taste. Lodge Bread is also gearing up to launch a fresh spot in Pasadena on Lincoln Avenue, set to open Winter 2025. Both locations will feature the bakery’s signature artisanal breads, pastries, and more in vibrant new settings.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

Helms Bakery on Instagram

CULVER CITY 🥐 Historic Helms Bakery Brings Fresh Flavor Back:

• After a 55-year hiatus, Helms Bakery is back, reopening its original 14,000-square-foot space at 3280 Helms Avenue in Culver City. Led by chef Sang Yoon of Father’s Office and a talented culinary team, the bakery offers modern interpretations of classic American fare. Highlights include a breakfast burrito bar, a cruller counter with inventive flavors, and a deli with specialty sandwiches.

  • Website + Instagram

Laurel Grill on Instagram

CULVER CITY 🥩 Laurel Grill Brings a Taste of Casual Elegance to Culver City:

• The highly anticipated Laurel Grill is adding a modern, neighborhood dining spot to Culver City’s bustling scene. Located in the heart of The Culver Steps at 9300 Culver Blvd, Laurel Grill is the latest concept from Dean McKillen, the restaurateur behind popular LA haunts like Laurel Hardware and Ysabel. This new venture brings together an inviting atmosphere and McKillen’s signature approach to culinary sophistication, blending seasonal flavors with a relaxed, community-centered vibe. Guests can enjoy a refined take on casual fare every evening, with doors open from 5:00pm to 11:00pm.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

Kiez Beer Garden on Instagram

HIGHLAND PARK 🍺 German Beer Garden Opens in Highland Park:

• A new spot for lovers of hearty German fare has arrived in Highland Park, as Kiez Küche & Beer Garden opens its doors to locals and visitors alike. Offering a variety of German classics, the beer garden serves up freshly baked pretzels, traditional sausages, and schnitzels, alongside a curated beer selection perfect for the relaxed, outdoor setting. Signature dishes include the Jäger Schnitzel and the Currywurst, along with a selection of vegan options such as the Spicy Vegan Sausage. Designed to bring a taste of Germany to the area, Kiez Küche’s rustic and vibrant atmosphere is a great choice for gatherings, with a large beer garden offering plenty of space to enjoy the lively environment. For those seeking a unique twist, their Flammkuchen (German-style flatbread) and hearty Käsespätzle are crowd favorites. Expect a casual, festive vibe perfect for any occasion.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

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EVENTS

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

FIVE FUTURES

GUIDES

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ACTIVITIES

Ivy Station Night Market tonight, 5:00pm - 10:00pm

CULVER CITY 🍁 Fall Fest at Ivy Station - Tonight from 5pm - 10pm:

• Celebrate autumn at the Ivy Station Night Market: Fall Fest tonight from 5:00pm - 10:00pm in Culver City. Explore over thirty local vendors offering curated goods, indulge in gourmet food truck bites, and enjoy craft beer from Los Angeles Ale Works. A resident DJ, family-friendly fall crafts, and adoptable dogs from A Purposeful Rescue add to the seasonal charm. Bring a donation for Westside Food Bank and receive a complimentary Ivy Station tote bag (while supplies last). Free admission, pet-friendly vibe, and easy access via Metro E line or Ivy Station’s garage make this an ideal Friday night out.

Credit: Official, Jeff Lorch, The Geffen Playhouse

GEFFEN PLAYHOUSE 🎩 Rainn Wilson & Adam Stein Wait it Out in 'Godot’:

• The Geffen Playhouse welcomes a celebrated production of Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot, directed by Judy Hegarty Lovett and co-produced with Gare St Lazare Ireland, running through December 15, 2024. Featuring Rainn Wilson and Adam Stein, along with Conor Lovett and Aasif Mandvi, the play breathes new life into Beckett's existential masterpiece, drawing on the renowned Irish theater company’s experience with Beckett’s works. As the story’s characters Vladimir and Estragon wait endlessly for the mysterious Godot, the production explores timeless themes of hope, despair, and companionship. This unique staging promises a powerful theatrical experience resonating with Beckett’s darkly comic vision. Tickets and more information are available through the Geffen Playhouse website.

  • Preview: Rain Wilson and Aasif Mandvi take on ‘Waiting for Godot,’ the play about nothing - and everything, via The Hollywood Reporter.

Spaghetti Festival at The Elysian this weekend 💌 

THE ELYSIAN 🍝 A Comedy Weekend at Spaghetti Festival:

• Join The Elysian as they celebrate this year's Spaghetti Festival artists and the unbound spirit of indie creation that pulses through the Elysian night after night all year long. They also have industry panels! An opening night show headlined by some great comedians! And why not get a Festival Pass for the weekend that is your all-access ticket to every show in the Mainstage and the Vault, Clownchella (feat. real goats! in a school bus!) pop-ups by Freak Nature Puppets, Clowns of Color, afterparties, and more. Mayhem. Glory. 💌 

Pasadena Artazan Show this Saturday + Sunday

PASADENA 🎨 Crafted Discoveries Await at Pasadena’s Artazan Market:

• This weekend, the Artazan Handcraft Market transforms the Pasadena Convention Center into a vibrant showcase of artisan talent. Running Saturday + Sunday, the event spotlights over two-hundred exhibitors specializing in handcrafted goods, from fine art and jewelry to ceramics and specialty foods. Attendees can browse intricate, artisan-made creations that emphasize traditional craftsmanship inspired by the 19th-century Arts & Crafts movement. Live music complements the shopping experience, creating a lively atmosphere for visitors. Tickets are $8 online and $10 at the door, valid for both days.

2024 Inglewood Open Studios Art Walk, Saturday + Sunday

INGLEWOOD 🎨 Open Studios Art Walk This Weekend:

• This weekend, the Inglewood Open Studios art walk offers a self-guided tour through local galleries, studios, and pop-up exhibitions. Highlights include The Flowlicious Experience at Inglewood Public Library, featuring spoken word and music, and a fashion show at ECF Art Centers where artists with special needs present wearable art. Wrap up Saturday’s festivities at Lalo’s Grill with an afterparty showcasing a group exhibition by local artists. With free parking and easy Metro access, this event is an accessible celebration of Inglewood’s creative spirit.

Next Saturday: Sparkle DTLA Grand Debut 💌 

DOWNTOWN 🎄 SPARKLE DTLA Lights Up the Night Next Saturday:

• Step into the holiday spirit at SPARKLE DTLA’s grand debut at The Bloc in Downtown LA next Saturday (November 16th) from 5:00pm to 7:00pm. This immersive holiday spectacle features eighteen million synchronized lights, festive tunes, and one of the city's largest multi-colored interactive displays—perfect for capturing that ultimate holiday photo. Highlights include a performance by the Colburn Concert Choir, led by Emmy Award-winner Adrian Dunn, and a special show by Laura Marano. With activities like face painting, nail art, and holiday card making, plus a $750 gift card giveaway, this free community event promises festive fun for all. 💌 

SANTA MONICA 🐛 Caterpillar Soup Returns for a 20th Anniversary Celebration:

• Lyena Strelkoff’s powerful one-woman play Caterpillar Soup returns to the Santa Monica Playhouse this November, marking two decades of her acclaimed journey through resilience, love, and personal transformation. The autobiographical performance traces Strelkoff’s inspiring path following a paralyzing fall, blending humor with heartfelt insight into overcoming life-altering challenges. Special anniversary showings will take place on Thursday, November 21st and Saturday, November 23rd at 7:30pm, with a matinee on Sunday, November 24th at 3:00pm, each followed by a Q&A with Strelkoff and a guest. Tickets are $50 (main floor), $40 (balcony), with a $25 streaming option for remote audiences.

Registration open for 12th annual Turkey Trot in Downtown LA

DOWNTOWN LA 🦃 Turkey Trot LA: A Thanksgiving Morning Tradition:

• Lace up for the Turkey Trot Los Angeles, a Thanksgiving morning tradition in Downtown LA, where runners and walkers of all levels gather to participate in the 5k, 10k, Widdle Wobble, and One Mile Dog Jog. The race starts and finishes in front of the iconic Los Angeles City Hall, offering a unique chance to experience the city free of traffic as you pass landmarks like the Walt Disney Concert Hall. After crossing the finish line, join the post-event festival at Grand Park. Proceeds benefit The Midnight Mission, supporting those experiencing homelessness, with over $400,000 raised for the cause.

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COMMUNITY

Monday at the Santa Monica Pier: Salute to Veterans

SANTA MONICA 🇺🇸 Honor & Tribute on the Santa Monica Pier:

• This Monday, from 11:00am to 1:00pm, the City of Santa Monica will host a powerful tribute to veterans with a special ceremony led by U.S. Army General Andrew Poppas at the Santa Monica Pier. This Veterans Day celebration promises thrilling flyovers from Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters, a convoy of military Humvees and JLTVs, and performances by celebrity guests. Miss USO will deliver stirring renditions of the National Anthem and "God Bless America," while the West Point Drill Team and the 300th Army Band provide live entertainment. After the ceremony, enjoy DJ sets, local singers, and food from Meals on Wheels. Veterans and soldiers can enjoy free pier rides, thanks to Pacific Park. Join Santa Monica in honoring + appreciating those who serve.

SANTA MONICA 🚎 Big Blue Bus Secures $53.3m to Go All-Electric by 2031:

• Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus is accelerating its commitment to zero-emission transit with a $53.3m grant from the California State Transportation Agency’s Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP). This grant will fund the ongoing shift to a fully battery-electric fleet, aiming for a complete conversion by 2031. Initial investments include $35.5m toward charging infrastructure upgrades, including a rapid-charge canopy, and $17.3m to acquire 73 battery-electric buses featuring ADA accessibility and upgraded bike racks. The project also dedicates over $400,000 for workforce training in high-voltage safety. Additionally, bus Route 2 on Wilshire Boulevard will see expanded service, syncing with the L.A. Metro D Line by 2027.

WEST HOLLYWOOD 💪 Creative Recovery LA Opens in WeHo:

• Creative Recovery LA has launched its outpatient treatment center in West Hollywood, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by founder Cory B. Savage, Mayor John Erickson, and Marquita Thomas of the California LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce. Located on Santa Monica Boulevard, the center redefines recovery by integrating art and creativity into a holistic healing model. With a mission to empower self-expression, Creative Recovery combines clinical support with music, art, and movement, aiming to transform lives impacted by trauma and addiction. Savage received a Certificate of Recognition from the City of West Hollywood, affirming the center's role in fostering a compassionate and inclusive recovery space. 💌 

LOS ANGELES 🛏️ LAHSA Opens Winter Shelter Program to Support Homeless:

• With winter weather setting in, the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority has launched its Winter Shelter Program, providing 217 beds across five locations throughout LA County. The program, which runs until March 31st 2025, offers overnight shelter, meals, and a safe space for individuals facing homelessness during the colder months. LAHSA is partnering with nonprofit service providers to deliver essential services, including an Emergency Response Program that supplies additional resources during severe weather events. Last year, the program helped hundreds find shelter, with plans to expand further as the season progresses. Pets and emotional support animals are welcome, and individuals can access shelter through various referral options, including calling 211.

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DEVELOPMENT

Scaled-back Culver Public Market rendering

CULVER CITY 🛒 Culver Public Market Revamp Gets Green Light for 2025 Start:

• The Culver Public Market project, now scaled down yet refined, is set to break ground in mid-2025 following unanimous approval from the Culver City Council. Situated on vacant lots at Washington Blvd. and Centinela Ave., the $23.8m development will include over 13,000 square feet for retail and dining, 9,600 square feet of outdoor dining, and a two-story parking garage. Designed with a simple, rustic aesthetic, the market aims to harmonize with nearby properties. Backed by $17m from Culver City, the project is slated for completion by late 2026 or early 2027, with an expected economic boost of $159,800 in annual tax revenue and the creation of 101 permanent jobs.

Rendering of proposed redevelopment of Toyota of Hollywood

HOLLYWOOD 🏎️ New Multi-Family Housing Development on Ohio Avenue:

• A proposed redevelopment for Toyota of Hollywood at 6000 Hollywood Boulevard is set to transform the 3.7-acre site into a mixed-use hub with residential, office, and retail spaces. The Sullivan family’s project, now in the draft environmental impact stage, envisions 350 apartments, 136,000 square feet of office space, and 22,500 square feet of commercial areas, including 44 units for very low-income residents. Designed by OfficeUntitled, the site will feature a striking 35-story residential tower, a six-story office building, and public spaces, including a plaza on Hollywood Blvd. Construction could start by 2026, with completion anticipated by 2029.

Retail & 500+ Units Pitched for South Hope Street

DOWNTOWN LA 🏢 1220 South Hope: Downtown LA’s Latest Mixed-Use Project:

• Relevant Group has introduced a new vision for 1220 South Hope Street, Downtown LA, proposing an eight-story mixed-use development with 531 studio apartments and 7,165 square feet of retail space. This updated plan includes 27 affordable units for very low-income households, as part of the project’s density bonus incentives. Designed by MVE + Partners, the building will showcase a sleek black facade with brick and wood accents, plus amenities like courtyards and a rooftop pool deck. With the Morrison Hotel now excluded from redevelopment, this project aims to balance residential needs with accessible, community-driven spaces, pending design approval.

Affordable Housing Rising on South San Pedro Street, Florence

FLORENCE 🏡 Affordable Housing Rises in Florence with Eleos' New Project:

• Affordable housing gains momentum in South LA as Eleos’ latest development, Pandora, begins to take shape at 7655 South San Pedro Street. This four-story building on a previously vacant lot will provide 40 one- and two-bedroom units, all designated for low-, very low-, and extremely low-income households. With support from Transit Oriented Communities incentives, Eleos maximizes the design to accommodate more units, though no on-site parking is included. Acquired in 2021, the project aligns with community-focused goals to address housing needs in Florence. Completion details are still pending as construction progresses.

Mixed-used building starts to rise at 700 N. Virgil Avenue

VIRGIL VILLAGE 🏡 New Heights in Melrose Hill:

• Construction at 700 N. Virgil Avenue is taking shape as Continental Development Group's new mixed-use development begins to rise in Virgil Village. Designed by Kevin Tsai Architecture, the six-story building will feature 37 apartments above approximately 9,500 square feet of retail space, blending convenience and residential living at the bustling corner of Melrose and Virgil Avenues. The project, supported by Transit Oriented Communities incentives, includes four units designated for extremely low-income households, ensuring long-term affordable housing for 55 years. A two-story recreation room, lush central courtyard, and a distinct street-level retail space enhance this modern development, reflecting a vision to merge community-centered amenities with urban design.

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BUSINESS

West Hollywood Community Walk with Dubb’s Organic Coffee

WEST HOLLYWOOD 💼 Support Local, Black-owned Businesses on Saturday:

• Join BLK Events LA and JoinLinks on Saturday for a community-focused stroll through West Hollywood, starting at 10:30am and ending with good vibes, coffee, and live music at Dubb's Organic Coffee Blends. This event spotlights Dubb's, one of WeHo’s few Black-owned businesses founded by Wali Mohammed, known for its organic, Fair Trade coffee blends crafted with quality beans and a touch of community love. The walk wraps up with tacos from G's Tacos and tunes by DJ Inhabituel B, making it an ideal morning for friends, families, and pets alike.

LOCAL SEEDING 🚀 Los Angeles AI Startups See Surge in VC Investment:

• Los Angeles is solidifying its position as a major player in the AI startup scene, with the region setting a record by securing $1.8bn in venture capital in the third quarter of 2024. This boost is largely attributed to a $1.5bn funding round for Costa Mesa-based defense tech company Anduril Industries, but local AI ventures in healthcare and entertainment are also thriving. Startups like Regard, which offers AI-powered healthcare insights, and Pictor Labs, using AI to streamline pathology labs, are among those drawing significant investment. The city’s entertainment industry is also embracing AI, with Hollywood exploring AI tools for content creation, as seen in the recent Culver Cup film competition. As L.A. continues to cultivate its tech ecosystem, AI is poised to reshape industries like healthcare, entertainment, and manufacturing in the region.

  • Related: View the new CuratedLA 2025 Media Kit to uncover investment and partnership opportunities with us here at CuratedLA.

New Social Club Debuts in Beverly Hills

BEVERLY HILLS 💎 Gravitas Elevates Beverly Hills' Social Scene with Exclusive New Members-Only Club:

• Gravitas, a newly opened members-only social club in Beverly Hills, brings an extra layer of luxury to the city's already glamorous allure. Located at the corner of North Camden Drive and South Santa Monica Boulevard, this 28,000-square-foot, two-story space offers high-end dining, entertainment, and concierge services tailored to Los Angeles' affluent crowd. Featuring multiple bars, a temperature-controlled wine vault, private dining booths, and an automotive white-glove chauffeur service, Gravitas blends Old Hollywood charm with modern exclusivity. Designed by Kelly Architects, the club aims to provide a timeless experience for a diverse membership that spans industries, offering everything from live music to a podcast recording studio. Memberships start at $5,500 annually, with a unique emphasis on culinary experiences and personalized service.

DISNEY 📈 New Office to Explore AI + Mixed Reality for Enhanced Experiences:

• Disney is embracing the future of entertainment with a new Office of Technology Enablement led by Jamie Voris, the former film studio CTO, tasked with integrating AI, augmented reality, and mixed reality across its divisions. Aiming to align its film, TV, and theme park experiences with cutting-edge tech, the unit will oversee rapid advancements without centralizing work, ensuring Disney’s tech initiatives enhance its broader strategy. From augmented reality in theme parks to mixed reality experiences at home, Disney is building a 100-strong team to expand on technology like the Apple Vision Pro. With this focus, Disney aims to shape the evolving landscape of entertainment, putting immersive experiences front and center for its audiences.

WBD EARNINGS 💰️ Warner Bros. Discovery Closer to Streaming Profitability:

• Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) reported strong Q3 earnings for its direct-to-consumer division, hitting $289m, a major increase from last year’s $111m. With seven million new streaming subscribers—mostly international, bolstered by WBD’s Olympics coverage—WBD's total reaches 110 million globally. CEO David Zaslav shared optimism on achieving over $1bn in streaming profit by 2025, a message that boosted WBD's stock. WBD also credited its recent programming, like The Penguin, for competitive viewership and hinted at a potential password-sharing crackdown. Despite a dip in theatrical revenue, WBD’s streaming outlook remains positive.

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ENTERTAINMENT

NETFLIX 🍿 Stranger Things 5: Teaser Dropped for Epic Final Season:

• Netflix just unveiled a tantalizing teaser for Stranger Things Season 5, revealing its ‘coming 2025’ release and a full list of episode titles. Fans are buzzing over the lineup, which includes intriguing names like ‘The Crawl,’ ‘Sorcerer,’ and the finale, ‘The Rightside Up.’ This season, expected to bring the Hawkins saga to a climactic end, promises fresh mysteries, supernatural thrills, and perhaps a nostalgic twist that brings the adventure full circle. Speculations are already swirling about hidden meanings and possible spin-offs, hinting that the Stranger Things universe may extend well beyond this final chapter.

THE HONEST LIAR 🤞 Samuel L. Jackson to Lead Action-Comedy The Honest Liar:

• Samuel L. Jackson, alongside Andra Day and Edgar Ramirez, is set to star in The Honest Liar, an action-comedy directed by Wayne Kramer (The Cooler). Jackson will play Nick DeFranco, an award-winning actor facing jail time who ends up coaching undercover cops on how to act like criminals to stay safe in the field. The film, produced by Dan Grodnik and Jeffrey Reisner of Golden Eagle Movie Studios, promises high-stakes humor and gritty action as Nick’s involvement in the undercover world spirals into a dangerous game. With filming set to start early next year, The Honest Liar is already attracting buzz at the American Film Market.

PARAMOUNT+ 🎅 Jack Black Brings Holiday Mayhem in ‘Dear Santa’:

• Paramount+ dives into holiday mischief with ‘Dear Santa,’ starring Jack Black as an unexpected—and hilariously devilish—Santa. Directed by Bobby Farrelly, the Christmas comedy takes a twist when young Liam mistakenly sends his holiday wish list to ‘Satan’ instead of Santa, summoning a surprisingly spirited Satan (Black), who offers the boy three wishes in exchange for his soul. Hijinks ensue, with Keegan-Michael Key as Liam’s quirky therapist and a cameo by Post Malone. The Farrelly Brothers add their edgy yet heartwarming touch to the Christmas tale, making it a fun, offbeat holiday watch. Dear Santa premieres November 25th, perfect for post-Thanksgiving festivities.

YOUTUBE 🇺🇸 YouTube Leads Digital Election Day Coverage:

• Election Day saw YouTube dominate online viewership with a massive 72m hours of watch time, drawing over 80% of livestream coverage across platforms. Fox News led the pack on YouTube, peaking at 1.14m concurrent viewers—double NBC’s viewership on the platform. Rumble followed YouTube with 13.1% of the online audience, while Twitch and Kick trailed. Streams Charts data reveals a peak of 9.14m live viewers across platforms as results rolled in, reflecting YouTube’s role as a primary source for political news online. As YouTube’s role grows in digital news, concerns about election misinformation continue to loom for future coverage.

MORE YOUTUBE 🔗 YouTube Adds Hyperlinked Comments; Search Boost:

• As Google’s dominance in search shows signs of slipping, Alphabet is experimenting with YouTube hyperlinked comments to drive more traffic back to Google Search. Initially tested in mid-2023, this feature now appears under many YouTube videos, automatically linking terms within comments to relevant Google Search results. The goal? Reduce friction for curious viewers by offering easy, in-content links for further exploration—though some links feel irrelevant, as they simply pull keywords without context. While users currently lack control over which words get hyperlinked, the feature promises a boost in targeted search traffic, potentially funneling viewers from YouTube videos to Google Search and back in a cycle that keeps users within Alphabet’s ecosystem.

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SPORTS

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS 🏈 Bruins Face Tough Test Against Iowa Tonight:

• The UCLA Bruins are in for a challenging night tonight, at the Rose Bowl as they face the Iowa Hawkeyes, who arrive riding high with three wins in their last four games, each with 40+ points scored. Despite UCLA's recent back-to-back wins over Rutgers and Nebraska, the team is still struggling offensively, ranking 111th in offensive success rate. Senior quarterback Ethan Garbers will need to step up, but Iowa’s defense, ranked 12th in opponent EPA per dropback, is expected to make things difficult, especially as Garbers has averaged only 158 passing yards against tough defenses. With the Bruins nearly touchdown underdogs and facing Iowa's solid record of holding Big Ten opponents to low scores, it’s shaping up to be a defensive battle under the Pasadena lights.

CHARGERS ⚡️ Chargers and Titans Clash with Playoff Hopes on the Line:

• The Chargers host the Tennessee Titans at SoFi Stadium this Sunday in a matchup that could impact playoff paths for both teams. The Chargers, fresh off back-to-back wins, including a decisive 27-10 victory over Cleveland, are performing above expectations and currently hold a playoff spot. Meanwhile, the Titans broke a three-game losing streak with a 20-17 win against the Patriots, but they face uncertainty at quarterback as Will Levis remains questionable due to a shoulder injury. Experts largely favor the Chargers, with predictions pointing to a strong showing by Justin Herbert and a defensive edge that has been a key part of Los Angeles’ recent success.

RAMS 🐏 Rams Eyeing Fourth Straight Win in Week 10 MNF Showdown:

• The Rams are looking to extend their three-game win streak as they host the Miami Dolphins on Monday Night Football. Despite a rocky start to the season, the Rams have bounced back since their BYE week, showing significant improvements on both offense and defense. With Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua leading the charge, the Rams' offense has clicked, while their defense has surged to second in opponent EPA per play since returning from their break. Meanwhile, the Dolphins, led by Tua Tagovailoa, have struggled to maintain momentum despite strong individual performances. All signs point to a Rams victory, with the odds favoring the Rams to cover the spread at -2.5.

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HAVE A GREAT WKND, LA!

🤙 Thank you again to all of those that have Served our Great Country.
And thank you for letting me be a nerd before the weekend.
See you next Friday.

And Go Clemson Tigers. Beat Virginia Tech!

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