Robert Garrova

Food

Citing rent, beloved Greek restaurant and market Papa Cristo’s to close

The Greek restaurant and market has been in the Pico-Union neighborhood for more than 70 years.

A white plate rests on a surface adorned with a white and blue checkered tablecloth. On the plate, there is half of a dark-brown roasted chicken alongside a serving of cooked red potatoes. Behind the chicken, a small salad is placed next to a piece of pita bread folded in half. Three different sauce containers, each with a plastic lid, are arranged alongside the salad and pita bread, containing various sauces.

Health

As the Kaiser strike drags on, state regulators say the company hasn’t corrected 'deficiencies' in mental health care

A report says the health care provider still fails to provide appointments in a timely fashion; Kaiser says it has made "substantial progress."

Health

Will an LA program that diverts mental health calls to clinicians instead of police continue?

In one year, the program has responded to more than 6,000 calls, 96% of which didn't require armed police support. But will city budget woes doom the program?

Crisis workers Alice Barber and Katie Ortiz sit in a white Penny Lane Centers crisis response vehicle. Both wear blue tops. Decals on the car read: "Penny Lane Centers: Transforming Lives."

Health

LA County offers mental health help after firestorms

The county mental health department connects people with therapists, support groups and other services.

Two people embrace in the street as others, some in masks and respirators, look on. A home in the background is full engulfed in flames.

Criminal Justice

30 LA County probation officers are accused of allowing 'gladiator fights' in juvenile hall

The state attorney general’s alleges that officers “allowed and, in some instances, encouraged” 69 fights among the youth. The 30 officers are charged with child abuse and endangerment.

An arial image of a large facility with gray long rectangular buildings and some grassy areas in the center including a pool.

Health

Music as medicine: Could doctors prescribe music to treat anxiety and other mental health issues?

Could music be prescribed for conditions such as generalized anxiety disorder? Researchers, musicians and at least one local company think it's possible.

Headphones are seen sitting on top of a book of music chords.

Arts & Entertainment

After losing his home, this Altadena musician is helping others replace their instruments

Brandon Jay started the Altadena Musicians website where people can donate instruments to musicians affected by the fires.

Brandon Jay sits in front of a row of amplifiers.

Civics & Democracy

Altadena dog-walking group reconnects as emotional support crew after Eaton Fire

About 50 people gathered Tuesday at La Cañada Presbyterian Church for the second meeting of what they call ‘The Order of the Phoenix.’

A group of five people pose with their dogs on an Altadena street. They are all smiling and one person is holding their dog.

Criminal Justice

Judge sets April hearing to consider shutdown of Los Padrinos juvenile hall

A state board found last year that the county repeatedly failed to meet minimum staffing requirements at the facility.

A sign reads on a dirty building reads: Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall. Street lights and wires are visible over the roof.

Health

LA County more than doubled its mental health crisis teams in four years. But it still needs more

The county is still a long way from its goal of reducing response times to 30 minutes on average, so it is exploring ways to incentivize qualified job candidates.