"Keep it Run Hundred" runners jog along Culver Boulevard as the traffic signal turns green in Culver City on July 23, 2024.
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Julie Leopo
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LAist
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Topline:
Black, Latino and Asian runners in Los Angeles say the reason why their run clubs are growing is much deeper than what's on social media. It’s a safe space. It’s community-driven. It’s more than just a run club. Here are 24 run BIPOC-led, inclusive clubs you should know.
Why it matters: People are scouring this sprawling region to find community, representation and inclusivity, and running groups led by Black, Asian and Latino runners are leading the pack.
Why now: For decades, the list of runners of African descent who have dominated the track in both sprinting and long distance Olympic races has been long. Even right now, many Americans are crossing their fingers for track athletes like Noah Lyles and Sha’Carri Richardson to take home the gold at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Black Americans, Jamaicans, Kenyans and others in the African diaspora maybe be prominent in the most competitive spaces, but that doesn’t mean that regular folks are represented fully in the general running industry. According to the 2023 Running USA’s Global Running survey, only 4.8% of long distance runners in the U.S. are Black, even though there is a long history of Black Americans like Ted Corbitt and Marilyn Bevans who have made an impact in the field.
The backstory: But while most run clubs do naturally present an open co-ed space for one to meet the love of their life or their next bestie, many Black, Latino and Asian runners in Los Angeles say the reason why their run clubs are growing is much deeper.
It’s a safe space. It’s community-driven. It’s more than just a run club.
It’s a place where all people, like Lauren Turner who describes herself as a “curvy runner” with a “mom-bod,” feel included in a sport, whose industry has long been predominantly white, thin and competitive, even in film, TV and magazines.
Open up TikTok or X, formerly known as Twitter, and you will find a steady stream of viral content makers declaring run clubs being the new dating apps or thirst-trap opportunities for singles. Others have touted run clubs as a way to make friends.
But while most run clubs do naturally present an open co-ed space for ones to meet the love of their life or their next bestie, many Black, Latino and Asian runners in Los Angeles say the reason why their run clubs are growing is much deeper.
It’s a safe space. It’s community-driven. It’s more than just a run club.
It’s a place where all people, like Lauren Turner who describes herself as a “curvy runner” with a “mom-bod,” feel included in a sport, whose industry has long been predominantly white, thin and competitive, even in film, TV and magazines.
Lauren Turner runs down Culver Boulevard in Culver City with the 'Keep it Run Hundred' running group.
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Julie Leopo
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LAist
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For decades, the list of runners of African descent who have dominated the track in both sprinting and long-distance Olympic races has been long. Even right now, many Americans are crossing their fingers for track athletes like Noah Lyles and Sha’Carri Richardson to take home the gold at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.
Black Americans, Jamaicans, Kenyans and others in the African diaspora may be prominent in the most competitive spaces, but that doesn’t mean that regular folks are represented fully in the general running industry. According to the 2023 Running USA’s Global Running survey, only 4.8% of long distance runners in the U.S. are Black, even though there is a long history of Black Americans like Ted Corbitt and Marilyn Bevans who have made an impact in the field.
Things are changing, especially in L.A. where there's a distinct culture around fitness and appearance.
People are scouring this sprawling region to find community, representation and inclusivity, and running groups led by Black, Asian and Latino runners are leading the pack.
#302: Today we're talking about run clubs and how they foster community in L.A. Our associate editor (and our special resident marathon runner) Aaricka Washington looked into running clubs that were founded by Black, Asian and Latino people, the ways that they're offering inclusive, safe spaces for Angelenos, and why they've been growing more popular.
#302: Today we're talking about run clubs and how they foster community in L.A. Our associate editor (and our special resident marathon runner) Aaricka Washington looked into running clubs that were founded by Black, Asian and Latino people, the ways that they're offering inclusive, safe spaces for Angelenos, and why they've been growing more popular.
When Turner, a former competitive athlete in college, tried to jump back into running after having three sons, she hit a hard reality: she couldn’t run faster than a 16-minute mile (which is a slower pace for folks in athletics). She was hoping to get back into running and staying healthy, but found it difficult to do by herself, especially in postpartum and while working as a clinical social worker.
I was weighing the most I've ever weighed in my life. When you weigh more than you're used to, and you're carrying around all that extra weight, it's really hard to move your body the way that you used to move it.
— Lauren Turner
While her third son was still in a stroller and she was still breastfeeding, she decided to check out the Keep It Run Hundred club after a friend recommended the group. Keep It Run Hundred was founded in 2018 by a then-30-year-old from South Central named Alrick “Butta” Augustine who found motivation to lose his “dad weight.”
Turner is now one of the dozens of runners who consistently meet up in Inglewood on Thursdays as part of Keep It Run Hundred.
Keep It Run Hundred founder Alrick "Butta" Augustine gathers participants for a group photo after completing a run.
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Julie Leopo
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LAist
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The growing popularity of running clubs
When Turner, who is also from South Central, first visited the run club she was nervous, she says, but she yearned for a space to have community support while taking care of her body.
“I was super scared, because I was like, ‘Damn, I'm super slow,’” Turner says.
But when she finished her first run, her perspective started to shift.
“I was like, ‘Whoa,’” Turner says. “There are so many Black and brown people ready to run at night in my neighborhood. I feel so safe with all of them. It really helped me to be able to keep hope and have support during the pandemic, when I did feel really alone and didn't have as much social support, especially around parenting. Meeting some other moms that were in a similar life stage was also really dope.”
Lauren Turner stands for a portrait moments before the weekly "Keep it Run Hundred" run in Culver City.
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Julie Leopo
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LAist
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Racial disparities in the running community
There are still major racial issues in the running community.
White men killed a 25-year-old Black man named Ahmaud Arbery who was running in a Georgia neighborhood in 2020. After that hate crime, the Run with Maud movement started.
According to a recent survey from the Running Industry Diversity Coalition, an organization which aims to improve “inclusion, visibility and access” of racially/ethnically diverse people in the running industry, runners of color reported feeling significantly less safe at trail and road races than white runners. And while 93% of running industry organizations say they are committed to racial justice and DEI efforts, 59% don’t track progress and goals and only 14% publish their goals publicly, according to the RIDC.
From left: Komal Kumar, 26, and Dhriti Yandapally, 24, rest after completing their runs on July 23, 2024.
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Julie Leopo
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LAist
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Earlier this year, a Black-led running club filed a lawsuit against Boston Marathon organizers for discrimination during the 2023 race. Recently, Harlem Run founder and the author of Running While Black Alison Mariella Désir expressed her disappointment with a trail and ultrarunning equity working group that published an article that only included the progress of white women.
From left, Morgan C., 32, and Lia T., 27, pose for a photo after completing the "Keep it Run Hundred" run.
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Julie Leopo
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LAist
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Even though there have been run clubs, like L.A. Leggers, that have existed for decades, 13 of the most prominent Black, Asian and Latino-led run clubs in L.A. County have sprouted in the last 11 years, according to run club leaders’ survey responses. Seven of the run clubs surveyed were founded in the past seven years.
Chris Bordenave, who was born and raised in South Central, says the growth of BIPOC run clubs in L.A. has been in the last few years has been powerful and impactful to see.
Bordenave went from being the only Black kid who ran on his cross country team in high school to being on billboards across L.A. in Nike campaigns. He manages Santa Monica’s Blue Ribbon Sports, Nike’s first running specialty store, which he says serves as a “sanctuary for runners.” In his role as a part of Nike L.A., he works with six run clubs as partners — Keep It Run Hundred, Koreatown Run Club, Girl Gang Crazy, Good Vibes Track Club, Running Mamis and Her Sports.
Chris Bordenave works for the Nike L.A. running team as the Blue Ribbon Sports Community Manager. BRS has six run clubs as community partners.
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Courtesy
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Chris Bordenave
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He said that he was introduced to the run club community with Keep It Run Hundred in 2018. Joining the club reignited a spark in him.
Running was just so transformative. It just changed my life.
— Chris Bordenave
He says that there was already a trend with run clubs pre-pandemic, but once the pandemic hit, it sparked a mass exodus from couches to the streets of L.A.
“Things were closed, things were shut down, and people just were stuck in their own little bubbles at home, and they needed something to get out, to take this anxiety, channel it in a positive and proper way,” Bordenave says. With running, you don’t need a track. All you need is some shoes and depending on what type of person you are, some music and your phone or watch to track you.”
He says that once COVID restrictions started lifting people started to realize how they’ve grown emotionally, spiritually, mentally and physically. He also saw another trend: corporate brands taking notice and hosting special events in collaboration with local run clubs.
Chris Bordenave says that running long distance as a part of run clubs has been transformative for him. "It changed my life."
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Courtesy
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Chris Bordenave
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“We're L.A., one of the cultural capitals of the world,” Bordenave says. “So anything we do out here is always going to be bigger. It's going to be more expansive, you know, than other cities.”
Run clubs offer community too
Mariah Dyson is the founder of Girl Gang Crazy, a nonprofit organization that aims to offer an inclusive space for women through not only marathon training programs, but through a variety of events centered around mindfulness. Dyson, a former sprinter, started running long distance after living in New York for some time.
Mariah Dyson is the founder of the Girl Gang Crazy run club.
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Courtesy
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Mariah Dyson
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GGC started in 2019, but then the pandemic shut everything down. But the group was still able to engage with each other virtually through challenges on the Nike Running Club app until they could safely meet together in person again.
Dyson says she created a marathon training program and has been training more and more women every season. Along with creating experiences in movement in sport through marathon training, she says another pillar of GGC is creating experiences in mindfulness.
GGC members, often called “gworls,” have learned how to surf with Intrsxtn Surf, have taken self-defense classes and have volunteered for local non-profits.
When asked how she feels about the space that she’s created, Dyson says it’s exciting because she’s made many new friends. And she’s learned not to take that for granted.
Mariah Dyson founded Girl Gang Crazy originally to run with other women who looked like her.
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Courtesy
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Mariah Dyson
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Every time I have a conversation with anyone that comes to GGC, it feels divine. It feels like we were supposed to meet. If nothing else, you feel connected to the space. You feel connected to your own body and your own new power that you're finding. I just kind of feel like it's something I'm supposed to do.
— Mariah Dyson
Turner says that through the run club and the mom runners who supported her, Turner finished her first L.A. marathon in 2021 in six hours.
“It was really amazing to see the kids there at the end,” she says. “They saw me finish. And that was [the] big part of my motivation, to show them that your mom is a woman that can do anything she puts her mind to.”
24 BIPOC-led, inclusive run clubs in LA
Black, Latino and Asian run club leaders shared with LAist how their run clubs have grown and what makes them inclusive. All of these run clubs have been in existence for 11 years or less.
Meeting information: Tuesdays in Veteran’s Park in Culver City at 7 p.m., Thursdays at Sip & Sonder in Inglewood, Sundays at Playa Del Rey at 6 a.m.
Average weekly numbers: Tuesday 75-100; Thursdays 100+; Sundays 15-25
How it’s grown: “There has been a big push recently and I attribute that to social media.”
Why it’s inclusive: “We have all levels of walkers and runners that come out. It’s about community and being supported and motivated by people you don’t even know.”
Meeting information: Tuesdays at Santa Monica College’s Corsair Stadium at 7 p.m. Thursday and Saturday are various locations and times.
Average weekly numbers: 200 to 300 people that come between Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday
How it’s grown: GGC’s first in-person training season cohort had 30 women. “The numbers are growing organically. It's fun to see because there's so many girls that never thought they could do it.”
Why it’s inclusive: “There's always a pace and a space for everybody.” Before runs, the group is split into different pace levels ranging from a 7-minute pace to a 14-minute and above “sexy pace.”
Meeting information: Tuesdays at Loqui in Playa Vista at 7 pm
Average weekly numbers: Between 25-50
How it’s grown: “Running has changed so many of my runners' lives that they have started running 5Ks, full marathons and even Ultra marathons. When you complete a great and challenging race, your confidence boosts and you start to realize you are a lot more capable of many things you thought were NOT possible.”
Why it’s inclusive: “Since the beginning 10 years ago I have always told my crew we all start to finish and no man left behind. We don't worry about speed, it is NOT an individual thing but family-oriented, we all look out for one another as ONE.”
Mondays at 7 p.m. 3 or 5 Mile option — Meets Wilshire/Oxford
Wednesdays at 7:15 p.m. Meets at LACC Rainbow Track, Parking Lot 3
Thursdays at 8 p.m. 3 or 5-mile option - Meets at Love Hour 532 S. Western Ave.
Saturday Long Runs: Locations, mileage, times vary, TBD every week via IG
Average weekly numbers: 800
How it’s grown: “We attract a lot of new runners. When people see us on the streets or on social media, they can see themselves running with us because we probably look like them.”
Why it’s inclusive: “I won't pretend that running with us is not intimidating. Going to something new, where everyone is seemingly more ‘experienced or faster’ is definitely difficult. But I think what we do a good job at is making it fun and welcoming. Once you're here, you realize how much we care for each other.”
Tuesdays (Summer only) at 6 p.m. at Patria Coffee Roasters- 108 N Alameda St., Compton
Saturdays at 7:45 a.m. at Patria Coffee Roasters
Average weekly numbers: 45 people on Tuesdays, 85 people on Saturdays
How it’s grown: “I believe just staying consistent and word-of-mouth has helped a lot. We also do collaborations and activations with different organizations in Compton and around Compton.”
Why it’s inclusive: “We do scholarship fundraisers, park cleanups, wellness, events, and more. We understand that running may be new to a lot of people in our community, so we also emphasize education and providing resources.”
Meeting information: The WalkGood Yard (4019 W Pico Blvd.)/Wednesdays/6 p.m.
Average weekly numbers: 90
How it’s grown: "WalkGood LA began as a 5K protest against racial violence in 2020, and so the evolution of RunGood has been incredible to witness. We run together, support each other, and make sure everyone finishes. In 2024, we began to offer two paces for the 5K run, to allow for both a competitive pace and the "sexy" pace. The energy and support has always been there, but now it's been amplified.”
Why it’s inclusive: “We are a Black and Brown-led organization that creates safe spaces for healing and wellness for underserved communities, anyone that has ever been othered. No matter what option people choose, they do not have to fear being left behind to complete the distance on their own. Everyone is celebrated.”
Meeting information: Monday art run @ 8 p.m. usually in DTLA. Wednesday Tracklist @ 7 p.m. at Crenshaw. Thursday LISTA @ 7 p.m. in Mid City. Saturday long run @ 7 a.m. usually at Griffith Park. You can find our run details at @blacklistla.runschedule or www.blacklistla.org
Average weekly numbers: 150
How it’s grown: “Over the years, we've introduced a total of seven community programs to keep Angelenos active and moving. We are also a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that utilizes running to promote community, art discovery, and inspire healthy living in Los Angeles.”
Why it’s inclusive: “BlacklistLA is unique because we merged art with running in 2013. The art was intentional, not only to explore Los Angeles and show love to artists beautifying our streets, but also to motivate runners to lace up and run. All of our Board Members, Run Captains, and Community Ambassadors live in the places we serve, so we understand the lay of the land and how to motivate underrepresented communities in LA.”
Meeting information: 868 S Olive St., Los Angeles, CA 90014 - Sundays - 9 a.m. (subject to change, check IG)
Average weekly numbers: 30
How it’s grown: “The first few months, the numbers could vary between 5-12 people. I regularly heard people come out because they saw us on Instagram. We did a few things such as collaborating with run clubs, choosing different start locations, and having some themed runs such as Sunday Runday in the Park, where we had a mobile coffee stand, games, and DJ after the run. I think the biggest exposure came when we entered a team in The Speed Project.”
Why it’s inclusive: “When running downtown, there are several stop lights for us to take a break and allow others to catch up if needed. At the start of the run, we go around and introduce ourselves to the group and ask a fun fact question. We all look out for each other to make sure everyone makes it through the run. Afterwards you can hang out/socialize at the coffee shop. And sometimes during the summer months, we add brunch options post-run for those interested.”
Meeting information: Thursdays @ 6:45 p.m. & Sundays @ 7 a.m. - meeting locations highlight gems in South Central and rotate
Average Weekly Numbers: 30 people
How it’s grown: It started from 5-10 members to over 50 active members with more participants joining special events and community runs like Hood Beer Run and Ghetto Running Day. They have local community engagement events and holistic wellness activities.
Meeting information: Edward Vincent Park 400 Warren Lane, Inglewood, CA 90301 7 a.m. every Saturday
Weekly attendance numbers: 20
How it’s grown: “Women have invited friends and family, which has also encouraged community building. The ladies show up every week and authentically release whatever they’ve gone through during the week. We also have been intentional with connecting with each other, especially during the post run/walk brunch.”
Why it’s inclusive: “Recovery Run is a special space because we really allow everyone to come as they are. No brand deals, promotions, or marketing.”
Meeting information: Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. from the Metaphor Club in Leimert Park or Playa Provisions in Playa Del Rey
Average weekly numbers: 10
How it’s grown: “In the beginning, there were just a couple of guys that met on various days of the week to get a run in. We saw an increase during the pandemic as people focused on fitness over other social activities.”
Why it’s inclusive: “Black Men Run champions a healthy lifestyle and brotherhood. We advocate for physical and mental fitness. We are a safe space for Black men to run/walk, fellowship and mentor. All paces and all levels of experience are welcome.”
Meeting information: Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Crenshaw and Coliseum
Average weekly numbers: 15-30
How it’s grown: “In the beginning, my friends supported me and showed up to run. Maybe about 10 runners and some walkers arrived. Slowly more and more runners began to arrive. I’m a bit sure that the tacos post run may have a bit to do with it. It is all word of mouth. And fliers on IG helped as well. As I reposted other run clubs for support, they would do the same for me.”
Why it’s inclusive: “The 5K crew and walkers separate and then reunite a few times before we head back to finish. We have pacers and sweepers. We have seen amazing friendships grow. We don’t offer training. We don’t push people outside of their comfort zone. We give runners information on other clubs that they can join for training.”
Meeting information: Lululemon Studio City on Mondays at 7 p.m.
Average weekly numbers: 20
How it’s grown: “We started with 9 runners and we have 60 runners in our roster now. Taking on difficult races and sponsorships has really helped us grow and be recognized. There’s a running explosion happening and I think people see the benefit of running and training with like-minded people. This community is about so much more than fitness. It’s about inspiration, motivation, and teamwork.”
Why it’s inclusive: “We are a ‘no runners left behind’ club and open to all paces and abilities. We meet you where you are and make you feel accepted no matter what pace you walk/run. We also organize events that are specifically created to open the doors for BIPOC communities.”
Meeting information: The Brig-Venice, Tuesday at 6 p.m.
Average weekly numbers: 10-15
How it’s grown: “We are very new to this, so each week when new folks join us, it is very exciting to hear how they found us. Our growth has likely been driven by community engagement, social media outreach, and the welcoming atmosphere we have created. Since we are still growing, it feels less intimidating when you show up. People know each other's names, and we take pride in caring about folks not just at the run on Tuesday but also checking in with folks outside of the Tuesday run. There is a desire for community and socializing in a healthy, outdoor setting.”
Why it’s inclusive: “Our priority is to have fun while running and then enjoy snacks after. We offer a walk/jog/run option. The run is a little over a 5k, closer to 3.2 miles and for folks who wish to walk/jog, we have a 2-mile option. We make sure everyone knows where they are going and, most importantly, that you do not end up alone.”
David Wagner
covers housing in Southern California, a place where the lack of affordable housing contributes to homelessness.
Published June 1, 2026 9:00 AM
The L.A. Metro's Wilshire/La Brea stop on the D Line is one of the stations listed on the SB 79 map.
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Kayla Bartkowski
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Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
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Topline:
Starting July 1, a new state law will push cities to increase housing development in neighborhoods located near major transit stops. When the law was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom last year, cities began taking their best guess at where exactly those sites would be.
What’s new: Now, the list is out. On Monday, the Southern California Association of Governments published its official map showing where new housing density will be allowed under Senate Bill 79.
Why it matters: The law’s impact on L.A. neighborhoods near transit lines — including those zoned only for single-family homes — has been heavily debated, especially in the race for Los Angeles mayor. The tallest buildings allowed under SB 79 will be nine stories, as long as they are located within 200 feet of a Metro B or D-line stop. More common will be the “Tier 2” zones around light rail and dedicated bus lane stops, which will allow buildings up to eight stories tall within 200 feet of the stop.
Read on… to learn why Orange County is excluded for now, but will be added to the map soon.
Starting July 1, a new state law will push cities to increase housing development in neighborhoods located near major transit stops.
When the law was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom last year, Southern California cities began taking their best guess at where exactly those sites would be.
Now, the list is out. On Monday, the Southern California Association of Governments, known as SCAG, published its official map showing where new housing density will be allowed under Senate Bill 79.
Elizabeth Carbajal, SCAG’s deputy director of land use, said local officials sought many clarifications from state leaders in order to be sure that the map would accurately reflect the Legislature’s intent.
“There were a lot of questions after the statute was signed,” Carbajal said. “The clarifications helped further define bus service, as well as pedestrian access points.”
SB 79 has become a political lightning rod
The law’s impact on neighborhoods near transit lines — including those zoned only for single-family homes — has been heavily debated, especially in the race for Los Angeles mayor.
Mayor Karen Bass asked Newsom to veto SB 79, and she continues to oppose adding apartments within the nearly three-quarters of city land reserved for single-family homes.
City councilmember Nithya Raman, who is challenging Bass in the upcoming election, declined to oppose SB 79 and has said some single-family neighborhoods will need to accept more density.
Spencer Pratt, the former reality TV star running for mayor, made waves on social media when he falsely claimed last year that SB 79 would bring high-rises to the Pacific Palisades, where his home burned down. The official SCAG map confirms that SB 79 will have no impact on the neighborhood.
In response to SB 79, housing opponents in some areas have started focusing their efforts on killing plans for expanded public transit. Responding to public pressure, Burbank officials have stalled construction plans for local portions of a rapid bus line from North Hollywood to Pasadena. L.A. Metro is now suing Burbank over that move.
Where will new housing go? And how much will be allowed?
The rules of SB 79 are complex.
The tallest buildings allowed under SB 79 will be nine stories, as long as they are located within 200 feet of a Metro B or D-line stop. These stations qualify as “Tier 1” stops under SB 79, which puts the tallest buildings near heavy rail lines, which in L.A. only applies to the B and D-line subways.
More common will be the “Tier 2” zones around light rail and dedicated bus lane stops, which will allow buildings up to eight stories tall within 200 feet of those stops.
Height limits step down in areas further out from the station. In “Tier 2” zones, buildings up to six stories tall will be allowed within a quarter-mile of the stop, and buildings up to five stories will be allowed within a half-mile.
Neighborhoods near two Metrolink commuter rail stations, in Burbank and Glendale, will also qualify as “Tier 2” zones.
Change won’t necessarily come overnight
New housing won’t necessarily be coming to those zones immediately. Under SB 79, cities have the ability to put off full implementation until 2030 by making their own choices about where to allow more housing.
“Cities can develop alternative plans and delay implementation,” said Philip Law, a SCAG deputy planning director. “The map is not intended to reflect those situations.”
The city of L.A. has taken the delay approach, with the City Council recently voting to allow buildings up to four stories tall around 55 targeted transit stops. This would let the city put off full implementation of SB 79.
The new SCAG map shows no impact in Orange County. The region does not yet qualify as an “urban transit county” under the state law. However, the impending completion of the OC Streetcar through Santa Ana and Garden Grove, expected later this year, will make Orange County eligible for SB 79.
Once the OC Streetcar opens, SCAG plans to update their map to include Orange County, Carbajal said.
Check out Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures to celebrate the movie star's 100th birthday.
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Emily Shur
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Academy Museum Foundation
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In this edition:
Pride Night at Angel Stadium, Marilyn Monroe at 100, Stop Making Sense and more of the best things to do this week.
Highlights:
Celebrate the biggest Hollywood star of all time, Marilyn Monroe, on what would be her 100th birthday: June 1. The special exhibit Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon just opened at the Academy Museum and includes memorabilia, film clips and costumes that explore Monroe’s impact on the studio system, her iconic style and much more.
The Righteous Gemstones actress Edi Patterson brings her bold improv to the Largo for her new show, Playgirl — a full-length play completely improvised right on the spot. Yes, she’s playing all the characters.
Kick off Pride Month with Pride Night at Angel Stadiumas the Angels take on the Colorado Rockies. You’ll score an Angels Pride jersey and can enjoy the pregame Pride Village.
What, you think I’d let you miss an opportunity to see Stop Making Sense on the big screen? And lose all my indie cool cred? Never. Talking Heads’ classic 1984 music film (directed by the late, great Jonathan Demme) will be shown at Vidiots in 4K digital to celebrate 40 years of everyone’s favorite film nerd superstore.
Tuesday is Election Day, so get ready to drop off your ballot or head to your polling place — but not before consulting the LAist Voter Game Plan if you still have some research to do about the most competitive races in your area, whether that’s city council, mayor or even the state-wide governor’s primary.
And happy Pride! We’ll be featuring tons of LGBTQ+ events this month, so stay tuned.
Licorice Pizza’s Lyndsey Parker has your music picks for the week, including: Monday, Las Vegas rockers the Cab will be at the Fonda Theatre, and Scottish indie-pop darlings Camera Obscura will play their first of two shows at Pacific Electric.
Tuesday, new-wave legend Joe Jackson will be looking sharp at the Orpheum Theatre, British-Sudanese R&B artist Elmiene will play the Wiltern and Australian buzz band Vacations will begin their three-night run at the Troubadour.
On Wednesday, alt-country harpist Mikaela Davis is at Sid The Cat Auditorium, and the Grammy Museum hosts a “Reelin’ in the Early Years of Steely Dan” panel featuring Licorice Pizza’s Jeff “Skunk” Baxter.
Thursday’s a big night for new-wave fans with the triple-bill of the Human League, Soft Cell and Alison Moyet at the Hollywood Bowl, while Vince Staples is at the El Rey. Plus, at 4 p.m. Licorice Pizza is hosting a Q&A with legendary rock photographer Henry Diltz at the record store.
Wednesday, June 3, 6:30 p.m. Angel Stadium 2000 E. Gene Autry Way, Anaheim COST: FROM $35; MORE INFO
Catch the Angels as they take on the Rockies for Pride Night.
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Julio Aguilar
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Getty Images
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Kick off Pride Month with Pride Night at Angel Stadium, as the Angels take on the Colorado Rockies. You’ll score an Angels Pride jersey and can enjoy the pregame Pride Village.
Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon
Ongoing Academy Museum 6067 Wilshire Blvd., Miracle Mile COST: INCLUDED WITH GENERAL ADMISSION, $25; MORE INFO
Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon is at the Academy Museum.
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Emily Shur
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Academy Museum Foundation
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She may have sung happy birthday to Mr. President, but it’s Marilyn’s turn now. Celebrate the biggest Hollywood star of all time, Marilyn Monroe, on what would be her 100th birthday: June 1. The special exhibit Marilyn Monroe: Hollywood Icon just opened at the Academy Museum, and it includes memorabilia, film clips and costumes that explore Monroe’s impact on the studio system, her iconic style and much more. From her costumes in Some Like It Hot to the pink dress by William Travilla in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes to letters and personal materials, the exhibit takes a complete look at Norma Jeane’s legacy.
Stop Making Sense
Monday June 1, 7:30 p.m. Vidiots 4884 N. Eagle Rock Blvd., Eagle Rock COST: WALK-UP TICKETS AVAILABLE; MORE INFO
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A24
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FilmGrab
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What, you think I’d let you miss an opportunity to see Stop Making Sense on the big screen? And lose all my indie cool cred? Never. Talking Heads’ classic 1984 music film (directed by the late, great Jonathan Demme) will be shown at Vidiots in 4K digital to celebrate 40 years of everyone’s favorite film nerd superstore.
The Drop: Dogstar
Tuesday, June 2, 7:30 p.m. Grammy Museum 800 W Olympic Blvd., Downtown L.A. COST: SOLD OUT BUT WAITLIST AVAILABLE; MORE INFO
Keanu Reeves will perform with his band, Dogstar, this week.
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Francesco Prandoni
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Keanu Reeves’s other career — as the rockstar lead singer of Dogstar — has taken shape and developed a loyal fanbase over the years. Join the band for an evening of stories, music and conversation on the Grammy Museum rooftop as they release their latest album, All in Now.
Edi Patterson: Playgirl
Wednesday, June 3, 8 p.m. Largo at the Coronet 366 N. La Cienega Blvd.,Melrose COST: $50; MORE INFO
Edi Patterson will be improvising an entire play.
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Marcus Ingram
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The Righteous Gemstones actress Edi Patterson brings her bold improv to the Largo for her new show, Playgirl. No, she’s not improvising a pinup; rather, she’s doing something so much bolder — performing a full-length play completely improvised right on the spot. Yes, she’s playing all the characters.
Wet Hot Amusical Summer
Thursday, June 4, and various dates through June, 7:30 p.m. Three Clubs 1123 Vine Street, Hollywood COST: $33; MORE INFO
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Cherry Poppins
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A cult film if there ever was one, the 2001 David Wain film Wet Hot American Summer (starring Paul Rudd, Amy Poehler and many, many more) is ripe for a send-up stage treatment — and the folks at Cherry Poppins have delivered with Wet Hot Amusical Summer. The spoof of a spoof is sure to be an over-the-top send-up of what’s already a comedy legend; the show continues through the Hollywood Fringe Festival.
The Big Run
Wednesday, June 3, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Johnny Carson Park 400 S. Bob Hope Drive, Burbank COST: $22.50; MORE INFO
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Miguel A. Amutio
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Celebrate Global Running Day with friends in Burbank as The Big Run takes over Johnny Carson Park. Hosted by Fleet Feet Burbank in partnership with the Burbank Parks and Recreation Department, run the .4 mile loop as many times as you can in 30 minutes to compete!
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covers public corruption, debates over our voting system, culture war battles — and more.
Published June 1, 2026 5:00 AM
The state wants Huntington Beach to make room for more homes, and the city has balked at being told how to do that.
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Allen J. Schaben
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Los Angeles Times via Getty Images
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Huntington Beach will consider a citywide plan for more housing at its Tuesday meeting after a years-long battle against the state that resulted in a court order.
The backstory: State law requires California cities and counties to plan for enough housing to meet the expected demand over an eight-year time period, including for low-income housing. They don’t have to actually build the housing, they just have to make sure their local zoning can accommodate it. Huntington Beach was told to make room for some 13,000 new homes. The city fought the allocation all the way up to the U.S. Supreme Court — but lost.
The current status: A San Diego court recently told Huntington Beach it needed to come into compliance, or pay $50,000 for each month it fails to do so.
What’s next? The city council is scheduled to vote on the housing plan at its June 2 meeting.
Huntington Beach will consider a citywide plan for more housing at its June 2 (Tuesday) meeting after a yearslong battle against the state that resulted in a court order.
The backstory
State law requires California cities and counties to plan for enough housing to meet the expected demand over an eight-year period, including for low-income housing. They don’t have to actually build the housing, they just have to make sure their local zoning can accommodate it.
Huntington Beach was told to make room for some 13,000 new homes. The city fought the allocation all the way up to the U.S. Supreme Court, which declined to review the case last year.
Mayor Casey McKeon estimates the city would actually have to plan for close to 40,000 new units to meet the state mandate, since most new developments include only a small percentage of affordable homes.
Where things stand now
A San Diego court recently told Huntington Beach it must come into compliance, or pay $50,000 for each month it fails to do so. The city responded by posting a revised housing plan on its website and asking residents for comment.
Wider pushback
The Orange County Grand Jury dropped a new report last week that is highly critical of the state’s methods of forcing cities to plan for housing at all income levels. The report said the state’s efforts have led to “growing tension between state directives and local realities” and had “led to minimal housing being built.”
What’s next?
The City Council is scheduled to vote on the housing plan at its Tuesday meeting. The state could still order the city to make revisions to its current plan. "We await their adopted plan next week," Alicia Murillo, a spokesperson for the California Department of Housing and Community Development, said in an email to LAist.
How to attend Huntington Beach City Council meetings
Huntington Beach holds City Council meetings on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 2000 Main St.
You can also watch City Council meetings remotely on HBTV via Channel 3 or online, or via the city’s website. (You can also find videos of previous council meetings there.)
The public comment period happens toward the beginning of meetings.
The city generally posts agendas for City Council meetings on the previous Friday. You can find the agenda on the city’s calendar or sign up there to have agendas sent to your inbox.
A bald eagle couple has been spotted in Los Angeles County this past week.
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Courtesy L.A. County Dept. of Parks and Recreation
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Topline:
A pair of nesting bald eagles was spotted in Los Angeles County this past week, according to a social media post from the Department of Parks and Recreation.
Why it matters: Nesting bald eagles are a fairly rare sight in Southern California, since they typically nest along the California-Oregon border.
The backstory: The Department of Parks and Recreation did not disclose the location of the birds, and reminded L.A. residents in their post that bald eagles are a federally protected species and disturbing their nests could “disrupt breeding and impact their success.”
What's next: It takes about 35 days for bald eagle eggs to incubate. If the new visitors lay eggs, Los Angeles could have our very own eaglets as early as next month.
A pair of nesting bald eagles was spotted in Los Angeles County this past week, according to a social media post from the Department of Parks and Recreation. (You can check out the full post and video on Instagram.)
The Department of Parks and Recreation did not disclose the exact location of the birds.
Nesting bald eagles are a fairly rare sight in Southern California, since they're more commonly found close to the California-Oregon border.
A look at where bald eagles typically nest.
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Courtesy California Department of Fish and Wildlife
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Of course, there are notable exceptions, including Southern California's most famous bald eagles: Big Bear's Jackie and Shadow, whose yearly attempts at parenthood have become big national news on occasion.
Park officials are reminding everyone that bald eagles are a federally protected species and disturbing their nests could “disrupt breeding and impact their success.”
The history
Bald eagles were once close to extinction in the lower 48 U.S. states. By the early 1970s, there were fewer than 30 pairs in California, all in the northern part of the state. The species has rebounded since being protected under federal and state laws.
What's next
It takes about 35 days for bald eagle eggs to incubate. If the L.A.'s new eagle residents lay eggs, Los Angeles could have our very own eaglets as early as next month.
