About Kai Yeo

Kaelen Felix illustration for 360 MAGAZINE pizza article

Maine Lobster Week

Maine Lobster Week, the State’s First Weeklong Celebration of Lobster, Invites Diners to Indulge in Maine Lobster Three Course Menus, Lobster Rolls, Lobster Pizza and much more!

Maine’s first week dedicated to all things lobster, Maine Lobster Week (MLW), will be held September 19-25, 2021. Lobster shacks, diners, food trucks and restaurants across the state will prepare Maine lobster in dishes from classic lobster rolls to fine dining multi-course meals. The lobster-licious event is sponsored by the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative (MLMC) to celebrate Maine’s most popular seafood. Maine Lobster Week concludes on September 25, National Lobster Day.

Marianne LaCroix, Executive Director of the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative, said, “Maine Lobster Week will give residents and visitors alike a chance to enjoy classic Maine lobster dishes and discover innovative new options while supporting hard-working fishermen and beloved restaurants. The MLMC is thrilled to support the first MLW.”

Lobster dining destinations signed up so far include destinations from Kennebunkport to Bar Harbor with plenty of stops in between:

  • 95 Ocean at The Nonantum Resort, Kennebunkport
  • Bar Harbor Lobster Co., Bar Harbor
  • The Boathouse Waterfront Restaurant, Kennebunkport
  • Boone’s Fish House & Oyster Room, Portland
  • Corner Room Italian Kitchen and Bar, Portland
  • David’s, Portland
  • DiMillo’s On the Water, Portland
  • Eventide Oyster Co., Portland
  • Evo Kitchen + Bar, Portland
  • Fish Bones Grill, Lewiston
  • Front Room Restaurant and Bar, Portland
  • Grill Room and Bar, Portland
  • Hartstone Inn, Camden
  • Higgins Beach Market, Scarborough
  • Highroller Lobster Co., Portland
  • The Honey Paw, Portland
  • Island Lobster Company, Peaks Island Portland
  • Little Giant, Portland
  • Monte’s Fine Foods, Portland
  • Nonesuch River Brewing, Scarborough
  • Nubb’s Lobster Shack, Cape Neddick
  • Old Port Sea Grill and raw bar, Portland
  • Petite Jacqueline, Portland
  • Pine Point Grill, Scarborough
  • Sea Glass Restaurant, Cape Elizabeth
  • Sebago Brewing Company – multiple locations
  • The Tiller, Cape Neddick
  • Union River Lobster Pot, Ellsworth

Details about the participating venues are on the official website. The three-course prix fixe meals range from $45 to $65 per person; other lobster dishes are priced a la carte.

About Maine Lobster Week
Maine Lobster Week is a statewide celebration of Maine lobster, held September 19-25. Participating locations will serve dishes ranging from the classic Maine lobster roll to fine dining multi-course meals. The event is sponsored by the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative. Maine Lobster Week is additionally supported by the Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram and Eat Drink Lucky.

2021 Polestar 2 Illustration by Kaelen Felix for 360 Magazine

WATT ELECTRIC VEHICLE COMPANY

WATT ELECTRIC VEHICLE COMPANY’S PACES PLATFORM TO SPRINGBOARD UK PRODUCTION OF NEXT-GEN ELECTRIC COMMERCIAL VEHICLES   

Manufacture of up to 5,000 new commercial EVs per annum scheduled for 2023 in the Midlands; first prototype to be revealed Q1 2022 

Watt Electric Vehicle Company (WEVC) announces a major milestone in the continued strategic growth of its unique EV offering, outlining plans to build up to 5,000 new electric commercial vehicles per annum under its own brand and on behalf of third-party manufacturers at an all-new facility in the Midlands, all of which will be based on its new state-of-the-art EV platform.

Passenger And Commercial EV Skateboard (PACES), the innovative and highly flexible architecture allows the niche vehicle industry to meet the considerable challenges of transitioning to an electric future by providing a sophisticated, yet cost-effective EV platform “off-the-shelf.”

Highly customizable for different body styles, sizes and configurations, PACES can support any low-to-medium volume manufacturer, specialist vehicle converter or start-up, and complies with ISO regulations and European Small Series Type Approval safety standards. Its cell-to-chassis system means batteries are fitted directly to the primary structure (rather than having a separate pack), optimizing stiffness and minimizing weight.

Fully supported by a leading UK-based EV technology supply chain, WEVC has undergone a comprehensive development process with PACES over the last two years and is market-ready. Capable of providing the basis for a whole new range of bespoke electric last mile, vans, trucks, and buses – in fact, any type of commercial vehicle – production manufacturing of PACES-based all-new EV commercial vehicles by WEVC is scheduled to start in the Midlands in Q3 2023.

Watt EV Company will reveal a first prototype electric commercial vehicle, based on PACES, by end of Q1 2022, a project that is supported by Innovate UK through its Transitioning To Zero Emission Vehicles Collaborative Research and Development competition.

Neil Yates, founder, and owner of Watt Electric Vehicle Company, said, “Our PACES architecture and manufacturing processes are flexible and scale-able, a first “off-the-shelf” product specifically targeted for the low-to-medium volume industry capable of supporting any type of EV, with a cell-to-chassis structural battery system that optimizes chassis stiffness and minimizes vehicle weight.

“With ever-increasing pressure on urban emissions, coupled with the growth in home delivery, we have been approached by multiple commercial vehicle manufacturers and fleet operators, who are in desperate need of developing the next generation of electric vans, trucks, and buses.

“As electrification of the sector only accelerates, what these companies need is a ready-to-go, sophisticated yet cost-effective EV platform on which to build their vehicles – that is Watt Electric Vehicle Company’s PACES architecture.

“Thanks to the support of Innovate UK grant funding, we will reveal our first prototype electric commercial vehicle, based on PACES, by end of Q1 2022. Production of a new range of PACES-based electric commercials by WEVC is then scheduled to begin in our new Midlands facility in Q3 2023. Through this facility, we will have the capacity to build 2,500-5,000 units a year.”

WEVC is also a manufacturer of premium sports EVs, producing its own Porsche 356-inspired Coupe from its bespoke facility in St Columb Major/near to Newquay Airport. The first production car to use PACES, the Coupe is a sub-1,000kg rear wheel drive fixed-head sports car that combines retro looks with state-of-the-art EV technology, featuring a 40kWh battery structurally integrated into the chassis.

Riding, handling, and steering have been honed for driver engagement and real-world enjoyment, while the weight distribution is near 50:50 weight with a mid-mounted 120kW electric motor. WEVC has already completed more than 12-months of testing and development, with a WTLP range of up to 230 miles and a 0-62mph time of just over five seconds. 21 Launch Edition Coupes available to order now priced from £81,250; customer deliveries commence early 2022.

Yates added, “We have been overwhelmed by the response to our launch of the WEVC Coupe with very few Limited-Edition cars remaining available. Alongside the production of this new EV at our existing factory, WEVC will also establish another facility in Cornwall in 2023, an all-new facility that will focus on the low-volume manufacturing of sports cars and passenger EVs, at volumes of around 150 units per year. Together with manufacturing in the Midlands of electric commercial vehicles, my vision is for Watt Electric Vehicle Company to lead the production of tomorrow’s low volume electric vehicles.”

Cannabis illustration by Rita Azar for use by 360 magazine

Best CBD Gummies For Anxiety

Best CBD Gummies For Anxiety: Top Brands In 2021

Anxiety is a major issue in society affecting the various calibers of individuals without being bias. Most persons neglect it alongside other mental illnesses. However, this has led to the search for other non-conventional forms of therapy because the normal medications sometimes carry undesirable side effects. More so, the inconveniences associated with the normal diagnosis and management are very disheartening. This is where CBD products come in, they are relatively new in the market but have immediately become a go-to option for issues like sleep disorders, pains, anxiety, inflammation, arthritis, and many others. The different CBD products all have a unique function to help you live a better and more appreciable life. Hence, this article is about the best CBD Gummies for anxiety currently in the market, the top brands, and all you need to know before you buy these products.

Top 5 CBD Gummies Brands for Anxiety

Our Consideration for Choosing The Best CBD Gummies for Anxiety

It is quite evident that many brands are pitching the same product for the treatment of anxiety. Given that development, we came up with some criteria that enabled us to select the top five brands that provide CBD Gummies for anxiety. It is interesting to note that this selection was purely objective and not intentionally in favor of any specific brands. The criteria for selection are as follows:

Hemp source

It is expedient that when you want to buy CBD Gummies, whether, in person or online, you check for any information on the hemp plant that they used. This is because many brands are using poorly grown and adulterated versions of the plant, which may end up giving you poor-quality products with unverified constituents. The brands selected in this article are well-known brands that use the right plant.

Third-party lab reports

Any legitimate brand is not usually afraid of third-party testing since they have a genuine product. Thus, testing a product using an independent laboratory is a crucial step for selecting a brand for the Best CBD Gummies for anxiety. The result of the third-party testing should be consistent with those on the brand’s site.

Quality of the ingredient

We made sure to pick only brands with the best quality ingredients. Almost all the brands out there will promise you that they have the best compositions, but only a few meet up the task. We have chosen brands with the highest concentrations of CBD, lowest of concentration (and of course standard proof concentration) of THC. As well as small amounts of preservatives and other secondary ingredients that will give the product a nice taste and flavoring, but do not reduce the effect of the main ingredient.

Strength of the product

Since it is from a high-quality hemp plant and the best materials available, it is a no-brainer that these products would perform their functions to the fullest. Have in mind that these companies received vetting so their products are the best when it comes to CBD Gummies used for anxiety treatment or management.

Brand transparency

The brands we have selected make use of the right materials and so they got nothing to hide. More so, their customer reviews will also confirm what we have said about them. We made sure that each of the brands we picked had a high trust rating. So, you have nothing to fear. You just sit back and look through them all, and then pick any that feels just right for you.

5 Best CBD Gummies for Anxiety Available in 2021

1. Fab CBD Chews: Best Overall

Fab CBD is a relatively new company founded in 2017 in Colorado. They deal with various forms of nutritional products, health products, topical skin care products, and pet products. Their goal is to offer medical assistance to people in a more convenient manner. Their farmers grow hemp, the key ingredients for sourcing CBD for the edible products, without using chemicals and pesticides. Every time, this company channels its profits to the Make-A-Wish Foundation as a way of giving back to society.

Hemp source

As a matter of principle, they get all their products from their farms in Colorado. They also extract CBD and other components of the plant using a unique non-toxic extraction method that separates the CBD, terpenes, and flavonoids from the rest of the plant. Mind you, they grow their products in areas where hemp farming is legal.

Lab results

With series of in-house lab tests and third-party tests conducted, this firm is always bringing quality, fully tested products that are safe to use to the market. They use Proverde laboratories to test their products.

Ingredients

Fab CBD has completely organic ingredients which are all high-quality versions of themselves. They keep all ingredients in favorable conditions before and after use, and mixing proportions of the various ingredients are of the accepted standard.

Strength

Fab directs a significant amount of mental and physical efforts toward their production and, hence, obtain an output that is the gold standard in every factor of comparison.

Brand reputation

Many official and popular sites have endorsed Fab CBD as a trusted brand for CBD products, especially CBD Gummies. This is because it offers one of the highest quality CBD products in the market. It is popular for carrying out third-party lab testing, of which the results are always very impressive. They have wonderful customer service and have been rated five stars by hundreds of customers.

Price to performance

Fab CBD Chews comes at affordable prices and also offers nice discounts when purchased in large quantities. They offer a 30-day guarantee on their products and shipping charges are gotten based on the weight and height of the products. They only ship within the United States but offer free shipping for orders that are more than US$99.

Verdict

From the information detailed above, Fab CBD has its head straight on giving customers the best CBD Gummies for anxiety. So, if you are interested in buying some CBD Gummies. Fab is a good place to start.

2. Joy Organics Gummies – Best Lab Testing

Someone who knows and had experienced the naturally occurring beneficial effects of CBD and wants to share with anyone she comes in contact with established this brand in 2018. After CBD products changed her life, she decided to enter the industry only to find that getting these products in their high-quality form has been very difficult for customers. The main goal of Joy Organics is to produce standard CBD products and then make these products available for everyone at a much-subsidized rate.

Hemp source

According to Joy Organics, hemp plants are not equal and, as such, their CBD compositions are not the same. Being a member of the United States Hemp Roundtable, Joy Organics prepare their products with only the best hemp plant available. This is not just because they want to satisfy their customers, but also because they want to set an exemplary standard for other brands to follow.

Lab results

Joy Organics partners with only the best in the industry. The farmers and the extractors all have quality experience and training, and then, there is the state of the start labs that test all their products to confirm how genuine they are. They have well-documented lab results with each product’s lot number. With this lot number, you access the lab result of your product online anytime. Again, they also make use of third-party lab testing at ISO-certified labs, just to be sure that their products meet the standard mark.

Ingredients

The main ingredient for CBD gummies is the hemp plant, with other secondary ingredients for taste and coloring. Joy Organics tries to make the gummies as THC-free as possible and has sometimes gotten to 0.0% THC presence.

Strength

Joy organics have a high level of sustainability which does not only end in growing, formulating, and bottling, but also in shipping and other aspects of branding.

Brand reputation

Since they belong in the United States Hemp Roundtable, they know them nationwide to deliver outstanding CBD Gummies that work very effectively. Also, they assist their customers in searching for products and quantities that would be suitable for what they have in mind.

Price to performance

Joy organics has numerous content sizes to offer such as the 10mg container, which has a total of 30 gummies and comes in several flavors like the strawberry and green apple flavors. These Premium CBD gummies help in taking the edge off, unwinding without losing focus, it also tackles stress.

Verdict

If you are a newbie in the CBD Gummies for anxiety industry, either as a retailer or a consumer, then you should consider starting with a reliable brand like Joy Organics Gummies. 

3. Premium Jane – Best Formulators

Premium Jane is one of the top CBD brands in the market. That is to say, they are among the brands that are giving CBD products the good name they have been getting recently. They are keen on making sure that all who come in contact with it feel the natural benefits of CBD products such as CBD gummies and CBD oil.

Hemp source

Their CBD comes from hemp plants grown in Kentucky, in the United States. There are different qualities of hemp, and this means that different qualities of CBD exist. Premium Jane makes their CBD Gummies with the highest quality hemp available.

Lab results

In-house lab results and third-party lab results are correlating with each other and are also of the standard values. All products of Premium Jane have been tested and certified by ISO professionals to be completely safe to use with modifications aimed at reducing the side effects that come along with the intake of hemp products.

Ingredients

As with other CBD Gummies for anxiety, Premium Jane is made with CBD also known as cannabidiol, which is one of the derivatives of the hemp plant alongside other flavoring substances like strawberry, mango berry, lime, etc. During the extraction, they usually remove some unwanted derivatives of the plant-like THC, known to cause side effects. They do this so that you will enjoy all the benefits without the repercussions. Also, the gummies do not contain any solvents, pesticides, or bad chemicals.

Strength

As stated earlier, the Premium Jane brand concentrates on making better versions of CBD Gummies for anxiety so users can relax while on the go. They derive pleasure from the knowledge that you are fully satisfied with what you get from your previous order.

Brand reputation

Most of their customers always write back to affirm the quality and benefits of their CBD products.

Price to performance

Premium Jane has many flavors under CBD gummies for anxiety. Some of these products include:

  • 750mg CBD Gummies (25mg CBD per Gummy), which goes for about $55.00
  • 1500mg Strawberry CBD Gummies (25mg CBD per Gummy), which goes for about $90.00
  • 1500mg Lime CBD Gummies (25mg CBD per Gummy), which also goes for about $90.00
  • 1500mg Mango Berry CBD Gummies (25mg CBD per Gummy).

Verdict

For Premium Jane to be in our Top 5 list, it means that they have done exceedingly well based on the criteria we listed above and, as such, we can recommend that you try their products and see if they soothe you.

4. PlusCBD – Best Broad Spectrum

PlusCBD is a wellness company to improve the health of everyone on the planet, with the use of medicinal plants like CBD. Being among one the first CBD brands across the country, they are basically in charge of making sure that the benefits of CBD are known all over the planet. They have the widest production selection available and belong to several trade organizations where they receive the most recent updates from the international market.

Hemp source

The Hemp plant that Plus CBD uses to make PlusCBD Gummies for anxiety is from natural planting in the presence of natural sunlight soil and water. Their hemp contains other smaller terpenes and cannabinoids which contribute to the health benefits it provides in general. Hemp also contains other substances such as fatty acids that usually stimulate the body to produce its endocannabinoids.

Lab results

All the results obtained from the lab are third-party tested while a Certified ISO quality assurance agency also tests the product quality and packaging. Again, they have their quality assurance and quality control firm that does the internal clearance before they send them to the independent labs. They also carry out clinical testing to improve the efficacy of the products.

Ingredients

It contains the main ingredient which is cannabidiol. It also contains other beneficial lower quantity derivatives of the hemp plant in addition to the flavoring agents and taste agents. Generally, their products derive from non-GMO plants raised from EU-certified hemp seeds, no gluten, and artificial sweeteners like organic tapioca syrup, organic cane sugar, organic seaweed extract, and citric acid.

Strength

PlusCBD helps in masking the awkward feeling of taking the normal hemp derivative, by making use of organic sweeteners and flavors. They have a strong testing and quality assurance facility, as well as endowed market and product educators that give you first-hand and most recent information.

Brand reputation

As one of the first CBD companies, they have a reputation of maintenance because those who are new to CBD products may use them alone as the yardstick to judge every other CBD brand and as such, failure to meet the expectation will be defaming the rising CBD name.

Price to performance

The different products have their different prices and secondary specific functions.

The PlusCBD Sleep gummies are available for $29.99 and help in circadian rhythm control, sleeplessness, and other disorders. It comes with CBD, magnolia bark extract, and lemon balm.

The PlusCBD Calm Gummies also go for the same price but have their direction towards easing tension, soothe irritability, and contribute to a greater sense of contentment. Its secondary ingredients include L-Theanine, a compound found in green tea, and another called 5-HTP, a precursor of serotonin.

Verdict

Before the fake brands and firms came along, PlusCBD gave and is still giving customers a chance at easily obtaining top-quality CBD gummies which sort anxiety and other disorders. We have chosen them because their data checks out, you should choose them too.

5. cbdMD – Most Popular

cbdMD, as with other brands of popular CBDs, is vested solely in making sure that the world comes to know about CBD and its numerous benefits. They create awareness and educate the society of the positive effects of CBD, and then further make CBD products easily accessible to all who need them. They provide options for individuals that want to be different through experiencing the good effects of CBD.

Hemp source

The CBD of cbdMD comes from a high-quality hemp plant, from which other beneficial constituents derive.

Lab results

Lab results from cbdMD indicate no traces of THC in all their products. This is good news because you get all of the benefits without any of the adverse effects. Again, they use a standardized formula that enables them to get a constant high level of CBD and terpenes during the extraction. Then, they go ahead to blend them, in a manner that would potentiate its effects. They use certified NSF labs for manufacturing and production, and then the results of each finished batch are posted online.

Ingredients

According to them, their products usually come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee because they try to make each of the products the main function with the extra added advantage.

Strength

Their strength includes industrial innovation, great customer services, selection of highest quality products, as well as educating the public on all issues about CBD.

Brand reputation

They are popular for double-checking and triple-checking all details of a product before its release to the world. cbdMD tries to be as transparent as possible, showing everyone what is being done at every step in their production. It is due to this that they listed them on New York Stock Exchange.

Price to performance

cbdMD offers free shipping on all domestic orders. They can also ship products to military bases and United States territories. If you make use of FedEx, then they can ship to the FedEx pick-up location closest to you.

Some CBD Gummies products offered by cbdMD include the 300mg-30 Count CBD Gummies, which contain 10mg CDB per gummy and goes for about $29.99. There is also the 750mg-30 count CBD Gummies having 25mg CBD in each content and sold for about $59.99. Other concentrations and products are also available.

Verdict

Well, if you want to look at cbdMD from an objective point of view, you find that you are in a safe place that gives you premium quality CBD products, and that is why they are on our list of top 5 brands for the best CBD gummies for anxiety in 2021.

What Really Is Anxiety All About?

Anxiety disorder is the most common mental issue in the United States, affecting more than 40 million people that are 18 or older. It is normal to feel anxious, but when it begins to disrupt your normal activities and functioning, it becomes an issue. Another difficulty associated with anxiety is seeking help. Many persons that are having anxiety and its disorder do not like going for the proper treatment and this, sometimes, maybe due to discrimination and things alike. A combination of CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) and medication may be effective in the management of anxiety. However, close observations show that lots of persons used CBD products to relieve their anxiety symptoms. Well, if you are using it, why not enjoy it. This is where CBD Gummies come in. You enjoy yourself while relieving your anxiety symptoms.

Key Facts that Make CBD Gummies Exceptionally Good for Anxiety Relief

CBD Gummies and all other CBD products come from the hemp plant and, as such, possess some level of relaxation and anti-anxiety properties. They perform this function through the regulation of the endocannabinoid system (EDS), which is a vital system as it aids in the control of the central nervous system, hormones, inflammatory responses, reproductive functions, to mention but a few. Also, CBD Gummies helps with anxiety attacks by lowering its magnitute, which it does by reducing the normal stress levels to the barest minimum. Again, unlike many other products where you need to take for months before feeling the effect, CBD Gummies have a relatively quick response time.

CBD Gummies, which is short form Cannabidiol Gummies, come from their parent plant – Cannabis sativa also known as the Hemp plant. To clarify, CBD is completely safe to use and does not cause any change to your personality and mental state. Despite what you may have heard about the plant being psychoactive, experts have revealed that the cause of the abnormal reaction is from a different constituent of the hemp plant entirely, a substance known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Many studies have attributed the individual psychoactive changes to be due to the THC and, therefore, most CBD products are THC free or just contain a very minute amount of it.

According to research conducted in the past, CBD works well in the treatment and management of different forms of pain and discomfort. However, some of the current studies focus on finding out the complete mechanism of action by which CBD plays its fantastic role and if this effect can be beneficial to other body systems.

Before now, you may have heard of gummies that are like sweet and edible candy seen everywhere and every day. CBD Gummies are gummies with known concentrations of CBD (Cannabidiol) and known derivatives of the hemp plant. CBD is incorporated into gummies to enable you to enjoy the benefits associated with CBD, and at the same time, the sweetness of a candy. They describe it as the perfect calming candy to help you through any form of stress and anxiety.

Here’s What Science Has to Say

It is no longer news that the hemp plant has many properties ranging from relaxing to pain amelioration. CBD is simply one of the compounds that are responsible for these effects. They extracted CBDs from the parent plant and made them into forms that are more appreciating to the eye and more edible, while still conveying the original effects of the hemp plant.

How To Take CBD Gummies for Anxiety

Due to variations in the individual body systems, the amount of CBD Gummies consumed also varies from one person to another. The normal advice, especially for a new user, is to start low, maybe with a 10mg gummy, and then check how you feel afterward (both the benefits and the discomfort). Then, you can decide to up the concentration or increase the frequency of the previous concentration. Basically, you increase the number until you attain your desired effects. The effects of a single gummy usually last for about 6 to 8 hours so you can factor that into your criteria for choosing a dose. Although, how it lasts usually depends on the consumer’s metabolism, strength, etc.

Key Health Benefits of CBD

CBD is hailed as a miracle cure because it has numerous benefits which range from physical, to emotional and then psychological. The good thing about CBD is that it makes the effect last longer, that seems wonderful, doesn’t it. The benefits of CBD include:

Side Effects

Basically, CBD Gummies is a safe product since it rarely causes a reaction. However, it is possible to encounter some minor side effects like gastrointestinal problems and drowsiness after taking it, but, as stated earlier, the chances of encountering these effects are very slim. Again, it is possible to react to the secondary ingredients of CBD gummies like the sugar, color, and flavors normally used to improve the taste and appearance of the gummies. If you encounter any severe symptoms, it is advisable to seek medical assistance. 

The Legality of CBD Gummies

CBD Gummies are as legal as any other CBD product. That is to say, CBD gummies are very legal. Since they are all derivatives of the hemp plant (which is also legal according to the 2018 Farm Bill). However, it is only legal if it contains 0.3% or less as its THC concentration by dry weight. Again, the law guiding CBD is a federal law, so you have to check your state for any state-placed prohibition or ban. Remember, the law is not in favor of any CBD product having more than 0.3% of THC, which means if you purchase them, you do that at your own risk. 

Here’s How to Order CBD Gummies

All the brands for CBD Gummies listed in this article have an online platform where you can order CBD Gummies for anxiety from the comfort of your house. Do not hesitate to order the product now. If you have any reservations, you can contact the market and product educators to give you additional information.

Final Thoughts

Lets’ say you need something to help you manage pain and anxiety and you don’t want to use the conventional medications since they also have their side effects and irregularities, CBD gummies are always at your disposal. Although there are diverse brands of CBD Gummies for anxiety in the market, we have selected the Best 5 CBD Gummies brands that are likely to give you what you want and more. You can start from our best overall and work your way down till you get to the exact brand and concentration that gives you the best results.

LGBT flag illustration by Symara Wilson for 360 Magazine

Outfest 2021

If you’re looking for new entertainment, good news: Outfest L.A 2021 has released the dates, venues, and lineup for its 39th film festival. Outfest LA is returning to in-person screenings more than a year and a half after the Covid-19 pandemic. With nearly 200 films in every genre, Outfest includes voices and stories from the entire queer community.

The nation’s leading LGBTQ+ festival will be held from August 13 to 22 in-person. Alternatively, for those at-risk or those who are outside of the Los Angeles area, Outfest also announced that nearly every film will be available for streaming as well. The 2021 LGBTQ film festival kicks off with an opening night screening of Everybody’s Talking About Jamie directed by Jonathan Butterell, marking the festival’s first outdoor gala taking place at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. On August 22, Fanny: The Right to Rock directed by Bobbi Jo Hart will be the closing night film screening at the Orpheum Theatre.

The Platinum Section will be showcasing creators of experimental LGBTQ media and performance, featuring films such as Sundance hit We’re All Going to the World’s Fair and UK documentary Rebel Dykes. The Legacy section will feature screenings of classic LGBTQ features including The Incredibly True Adventures of Two Girls in Love by director Maria Maggenti.

Not just film screenings, the festival will also include special appearances by Max Harwood and others, with live performances by BeBe Zahara Benet and more. The fifth annual Trans and Non-Binary Summit will be presented, in addition to other special events. Outfest will also present memorial tributes to Outfest alum Ash Christian and icon Cloris Leachman.

General admission tickets are $16. More information on exact prices and films can be found on the official website.

Full list of film screenings and activities listed below:

OPENING NIGHT

EVERYBODY’S TALKING ABOUT JAMIE dir. Jonathan Butterell

Including Special in-person appearances planned by Max Harwood, Lauren Patel, Jonathan Butterell as well as Bianca del Rio.

CLOSING NIGHT

FANNY: THE RIGHT TO ROCK dir. Bobbi Jo Hart

Live reunion performance after the screening by Fanny, including members Jean Millington, June Millington, Alice de Buhr, and Brie Darling, joined by Patti Quattro and Lee Madeloni.

U.S. CENTERPIECE

THE NOVICE dir. Lauren Hadaway

DOCUMENTARY CENTERPIECE

BEING BEBE dir. Emily Branham

Special live performance by BeBe Zahara Benet.

SPECIAL TRIBUTE CENTERPIECE

THE SIXTH REEL (World Premiere) dir. Charles Busch, Carl Andress

Special memorial tribute to producer and Outfest alum Ash Christian, who passed away during the development of this film in 2020.

U.S. NARRATIVE

  • ALL BOYS AREN’T BLUE dir. Nathan Hale Williams
  • FIRSTNESS dir. by Brielle Brilliant
  • HOMEBODY (World Premiere) dir. Joseph Sackett
  • LANGUAGE LESSONS dir. Natalie Morales
  • MA BELLE, MY BEAUTY (Online Only) dir. Marion Hill
  • POTATO DREAMS OF AMERICA dir. Wes Hurley
  • SEE YOU THEN dir. Mari Walker
  • WE NEED TO DO SOMETHING dir. by Sean King O’Grady

INTERNATIONAL NARRATIVE

  • THE BEST FAMILIES dir. Javier Fuentes-León
  • BOY MEETS BOY dir. Daniel Sánchez
  • A DISTANT PLACE dir. Kun-Young Park
  • FIREBIRD dir. Peeter Rebane
  • JUMP, DARLING dir. Phil Connell Screening will be accompanied by a celebrity memorial tribute to Cloris Leachman, as well as a rare, pre-recorded introduction by Cloris Leachman herself
  • KNOCKING (Theatrical Only) dir. Frida Kempff
  • LEADING LADIES dir. Ruth Caudeli
  • LOVE, SPELLS, AND ALL THAT dir. Ümit Ünal
  • SWEETHEART dir. Marley Morrison

DOCUMENTARY

  • BOULEVARD! A HOLLYWOOD STORY (World Premiere) dir. Jeffrey Schwarz
  • CRYSTAL DIARIES dir. Enyce Smith and Gina Lamb
    GEMMEL AND TIM (World Premiere) dir. Michiel Thomas
  • EVERYTHING AT ONCE dir. Alberto Fuguet
    INVISIBLE dir. T.J. Parsell – including live performance by Mary Gauthier, Jess Leary, Dianne Davidson, and other members of the cast
  • LADY BUDS dir. Chris J. Russo – Sneak Preview Screening
  • MY NAME IS PAULI MURRAY dir. Betsy West and Julie Cohen
  • NO STRAIGHT LINES: THE RISE OF QUEER COMICS dir. Vivian Kleiman
  • NORTH BY CURRENT dir. Angelo Madsen Minax
  • RAW! UNCUT! VIDEO! Dir. by Alex Clausen and Ryan A. White
  • SEDIMENTS (International Premiere) dir. Adrián Silvestre

PLATINUM SECTION

  • SOCKS ON FIRE dir. Bo McGuire – Platinum Centerpiece, will include a pre-show drag performance emceed by director Bo McGuire
  • DEATH AND BOWLING (World Premiere) dir. Lyle Kash
  • REBEL DYKES dir. Harri Shanahan and Siân A. Williams
  • WE’RE ALL GOING TO THE WORLD’S FAIR dir. Jane Schoenbrun

PLATINUM SHORTS SHOWCASE (89 min.)

  • EXORCISMS AND OTHER SUPPLICATIONS dir. Georden West
  • DWARF PLANET dir. Adrian Chiarella
  • HYENA dir. Zinzi LeMond
  • BODIES OF DESIRE dir. Varsha Panikar and Saad Nawab
  • THE CROWN WITH A SHADOW dir. JB Ghuman
  • MAN OF MY DREAMS dir. Tristan Scott-Behrends
  • NSFW (ANGRY YELLOW MEAT) dir. Woohee Cho
  • CHILDHOODS dir. Aaron Biscombe
  • F1-100 dir. Emory Chao Johnson
  • REBEL dir. Jose Alfredo and Coker Jones Garcia
  • MONSTER GIRL dir. Jake Mcclellan and Eric Griffin
  • RUN OUT GROOVE dir. Paige Henderson
  • JUPITER & EUROPA dir. Milo Ferguson
  • IN THE AIR TONIGHT dir. Tito Soto

SPECIAL EVENTSLive performance elements are subject to change as policy around Los Angeles’ mask mandate evolves.

  • AIDS DIVA: THE LEGEND OF CONNIE NORMAN
  • BALONEY – Screening will be accompanied by a live Baloney show and a Q&A moderated by RuPaul’s Drag Race star BenDeLaCreme
  • THE EXTINCTION OF FIREFLIES dir. James Andrew Walsh
  • LA QUEENCIAÑERA (World Premiere) dir. Pedro Peira
  • THE LEGEND OF THE UNDERGROUND dir. Giselle Bailey, Nneka Onuorah – (Free Screening)
  • PROGNOSIS – NOTES ON LIVING dir. Debra Chasnoff
  • SHIT & CHAMPAGNE dir. D’Arcy Drollinger – Champagne White will host a ridiculous pre-show with members of the cast and the world’s trashiest “strippers”
  • THIS IS JESSICA dir. Andrea Meyerson
  • TRANS & NON-BINARY SUMMIT
  • OUTFEST SCREENWRITING LAB LIVE READ

EPISODICS

  • BOY CULTURE – Episodes 1 & 2
  • NOAH’S ARC: THE ‘RONA CHRONICLES
  • BRIDESMAN World Premiere
  • THR PRESENTS: WORK IN PROGRESS Season 2 – FREE EVENT

LEGACY

  • THE INCREDIBLY TRUE ADVENTURES OF TWO GIRLS IN LOVE dir. Maria Maggenti
  • QUINCEAÑERA (15TH ANNIVERSARY) dirs. Richard Glatzer & Wash Westmoreland
    Theatrical Only
  • VESTIDA DE AZUL (DRESSED IN BLUE) – U.S. Restoration Premiere! Theatrical Only

SHORT FILMS

  • 1-888-5-BLUE-YOU dirs. Jake Mcclellan, Eric Griffin
  • 2 DOLLARS dir. Robin Cloud
  • ALL THOSE SENSATIONS IN MY BELLY dir. Marko Djeska
  • ALMOST A YEAR dir. Jamieson Baker
  • AND THEN dir. Ravenna Tran
  • ARE YOU STILL WATCHING? dirs. Tali Polichtuk, Kitty Chrystal, Alex Cardy
  • AT LAST dir. Lorena Gordon
  • AUTOETHNOGRAPHY dir. Iván Reina Ortiz
  • BEAUTIFUL THEY dir. Cloudy Rhodes
  • BEFORE THE ERUPTION dir. Roberto Pérez Toledo
  • BETWEEN US dir. Cailleah Scott-Grimes
  • BLACK BOY JOY dirs. Joshua Walker, Avery Archie
  • BODIES OF DESIRE dirs.Varsha Panikar, Saad Nawab
  • BOREKAS dir. Saleh Saadi
  • BRACHA dirs. Mickey Triest, Aaron Geva
  • BREAK IN dir. Alyssa Lerner
  • CHILDHOODS dir. Aaron Alexis
  • CHLOE MARY LYDIA dir. Megan Chumbley
  • COCOON LOVE dir. Xiaowen Wang
  • CODED dir. Ryan White
  • COMPLICATED dir. Isak Kohaly
  • COVID SUMMER dir. Todd Verow
  • DAISY BOY dir. Aj Knight, Darrin Bush
  • DREAMER dir. Stephanie Osuna-Hernandez
  • DUSTIN dir.Naïla Guiguet
  • DWARF PLANET dir. Adrian Chiarella
  • EDEN dir. Sven Spur
  • EGGSHELLS dir. Slava Doycheva
  • EXORCISMS AND OTHER SUPPLICATIONS dir. Georden West
  • F1-100 dir. Emory Chao Johnson
  • FAREWELL dir. Maria Åkesson
  • FERVOR dir. José Manuel Vélez
  • FISHBOWL dir. Jacqueline Chan
  • FISHERMAN dir. Nicky Miller
  • GAYME ON dir. Giovanni Adams
  • GIRL NIGHT STAND: CHAPTER TWO dir. Jenna Laurenzo
  • GIRLS & THE PARTY dir. Paloma Lopez
  • GIRLS SHOULDN’T WALK ALONE AT NIGHT dir. Katerine Martineau
  • GOD’S DAUGHTER DANCES dir. Sungbin BYUN
  • GRADUATION dir.Robin Wang
  • GROWING FANGS dir. Ann Marie Pace
  • HEADLOCK dir. Damon Laguna
  • HOMEGOING dir. Carlton Daniel JR.
  • HOT DREAMS dir. Darci Fulcher, Vaughn Greve
  • HOW MOVING dir. Owen Thiele
  • HOW TO BE QUEER dir. Monica Zanetti
  • HOW TO DIE YOUNG IN MANILA dir. Petersen Vargas
  • HOW TO RAISE A BLACK BOY dir. Justice Jamal Jones
  • HYENA dir. Zinzi LeMond
  • IN THE AIR TONIGHT dir. Tito Soto
  • IT WAS THE DOG THAT SAVED MY LIFE dirs. Adam Golub, Sylvaine Alfaro
  • IT’LL BE OVER SOON dir. Benjamin Rigby
  • JACK AND JO DON’T WANT TO DIE dir. Kantu Lentz
  • JUPITER & EUROPA dir. Milo Ferguson
  • KWÊSKOSÎW (SHE WHISTLES) dir. Thirza Cuthand
  • LITTLE MX. SUNSHINE dir. Alessandro Nori
  • LITTLE SKY dir. Jess X. Snow
  • LUV U CUZ dir. Eric Pumphrey
  • MAMA HAS A MUSTACHE dir. Sally Rubin
  • MIND OVER TIME dir. Will Holst
  • MOTHER BUNKER dir. George Metaxas
  • MOTTA dir. Nish Gera
  • MOUNTAIN LODGE dir. Jordan Wong
  • NARCISSISTER BREAST WORK dir. Narcissister
  • NI AQUÍ NI ALLÁ dir. Ley Comas
  • NIMZO dir. Adelina Anthony
  • NOOR & LAYLA dir. Fawzia Mirza
  • NSFW (ANGRY YELLOW MEAT) dir. Woohee Cho
  • NUCLEAR FAMILY dir. Faustine Crespy
  • OF SELF-BLESSING dir. golden lionheart collier
  • OLLIES ON THE MOON dir. Brittany Campbell
  • ONLY FOR THE NIGHT dir. LaQuan Lewis
  • OUR BED IS GREEN dir. Maggie Brennan
  • OVER MY DEAD BODY dir. Quinlan Orear
  • OVER MY DEAD BODY dir. Tamiah Bantum
  • PEACE dir. Adomako Aman
  • PINE dir. Bethany Michalski
  • PINK & BLUE dir. Carmen LoBue
  • PLAISIR dir. Molly Gillis
  • POOL BOY dir. Luke Willis
  • PRIVATE PHOTOS dir. Marcelo Grabowsky
  • PURE dir. Natalie Jasmine Harris
  • QUEER ISOLATION dir. Jordana Valerie Allen-Shim
  • QUINCEAÑERO dir. Justin Floyd
  • REBEL dir. Jose Alfredo Garcia
  • RIGHT TO TRY dir. Zeberiah Newman
  • ROADKILL dir. Aliza Brugger
  • RUN OUT GROOVE dir. Paige Henderson
  • RUTH dir. Beulah Pidakala
  • SEASICK dir. Lindsey Ryan
  • SENIOR PROM dir. Luisa Conlon
  • SMOKE, LILIES AND JADE dirs. Deondray and Quincy LeNear Gossfield
  • SQUISH dir. Xavier SERON
  • STEPHEN & JAMES: BEST GIRLFRIENDS dir. Dave Quantic
  • SUPREME dir. Youssef Youssef
  • SWIMMING TO THE END OF THE WORLD dir. Todd Verow
  • TAFFETA dir. Lovell Holder
  • TAFFY dir. Jon Crawford
  • THANK YOU FOR BEING HERE dir.Elizabeth Archer
  • THE BEAUTY PRESIDENT dir. Whitney Skauge
  • THE BINDING OF ITZIK dir. Anika Benkov
  • THE CROWN WITH A SHADOW dir. JB Ghuman, Jr.
  • THE DAILY WAR dir. Karla Legaspy
  • THE FUGITIVES dir. Dami Sainz Edwards
  • THE LIGHTS ARE ON, NO ONE’S HOME dir. Faye Ruiz
  • THE MAN OF MY DREAMS dir. Tristan Scott-Behrends
  • THE NIGHT TRAIN dir. Jerry Carlsson
  • THE NUMBER 12 dir. Jed Bell
  • THE RECORDER dir. Justine Lupe
  • THE SMALL THINGS dir. Natalie Jasmine Harris
  • THE WAY WE ARE dir. Amanda Ann-Min Wong
  • THE YOUNG KING dir. Larin Sullivan
  • THEY/THEM dir. Goldbloom Micomonaco
  • THƠ dirs. Jake Villadolid, Heather Muriel Nguyễn
  • TO THE FUTURE, WITH LOVE dir. Shaleece Haas
  • TRADE CENTER dir. Adam B Baran
  • UNLIVEABLE (INABITÁVEL) dir. Matheus Farias, Enock Carvalho
  • UNTIE dir. Lane Michael Stanley
  • VALIENTE (BRAVE) dir. Miguel Melo
  • VIRGIN MY ASS dir. Adar Sigler
  • WHAT’S LEFT INSIDE dir. Michael Varrati
2021 Polestar 2 Illustration by Kaelen Felix for 360 Magazine

Notable High End EV Car Companies in China

NIO

NIO is a Chinese multinational automobile manufacturer headquartered in Shanghai, specializing in designing and developing electric vehicles. The company is also involved in the FIA Formula E Championship, although NIO has ended funding the team after selling to Lisheng Racing.

Xpeng

Xpeng or Xiaopeng Motors, also known as XMotors.ai, is a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer. The company is headquartered in Guangzhou, with offices in Mountain View, California in the US and is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange.

Li Auto

Also known as Li Xiang, the company builds electric vehicles that use range extenders for a power supply, Li Auto has vehicle manufacturing, engineering, and design services located in Changzhou, Jiangsu Province with corporate headquarters and research and development located in Beijing.

Faraday Future

Faraday Future (FF) is a California-based global shared intelligent mobility ecosystem. Established in May 2014, the company is headquartered in Los Angeles along with its R&D Center and Futurist Testing Lab, and has offices in Silicon Valley, Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu. FF is poised to break the boundaries between the Internet, IT, creative, and auto industries with product and service offerings that integrate new energy, AI, Internet, and sharing models. FF’s vision is to create a shared intelligent mobility ecosystem that empowers everyone to move, connect, breathe, and live freely.

Polestar 

Polestar is a Swedish automotive brand established in 1996 by Volvo Cars‘ partner Flash/Polestar Racing and acquired in 2015 by the former. It is owned by Volvo Cars and by extension its parent company Geely. Geely describes the brand as “independent” from 2017 onwards and “co-owned” by it and Volvo Cars. It is headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden with vehicle production taking place in China. The company develops electric performance cars and offers performance hardware upgrades and engine software optimizations for Volvo models through their Polestar Engineered division.

Geely Zeekr

Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co., Ltd (ZGH), commonly known as Geely, is a Chinese multinational automotive company headquartered in Hangzhou, Zhejiang. The company is privately held by Chinese billionaire business magnate Li Shufu. It was established in 1986 and entered the automotive industry in 1997 with its Geely Auto brand. It sells passenger vehicles under the Geely Auto, LotusLynk & CoProton, and Volvo brands as well as commercial only vehicles under the London EV Company and Yuan Cheng Auto (Farizon Auto) brands.

Global Street Dance Graphic for use by 360 Magazine

Red Bull Dance Your Style Announces Return

The premiere one-on-one street dance competition will bring the country’s top street dance community together this fall

Red Bull Dance Your Style teams up with Caffeine to deliver interactive live streams from each stop on the 2021 USA Tour, allowing audiences everywhere to vote on their favorite dancers

The premiere one-on-one street dance competition Red Bull Dance Your Style returns, bringing together top dancers from around the world to connect and celebrate the diverse dance community. Returning with a stacked tour of U.S. qualifiers, the all-styles competition amplifies dance scenes from all corners of the country: Boston, New Orleans, Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Miami, and Washington D.C.

Kicking off on Friday, September 10th from the iconic Boston harbor, the best in hip-hop, house, waacking, popping, krumping, locking, and more will battle one-on-one bracket style, performing against a spontaneous soundtrack – from mainstream hits to timeless classics. An audience of dance lovers will play judge, ultimately deciding which dancer will advance from each qualifier to the Red Bull Dance Your Style National Finals USA. With no panel of judges, no planned choreography, and no pre-chosen music, it’s all about embracing the moment, wowing the crowd and moving to the beat.

This year, for the first time ever, Caffeine will livestream all Red Bull Dance Your Style events taking place in the US. Caffeine produces and hosts some of the largest live streamed street culture events in the world. Millions of viewers tuned in over the past year to watch live battle rap from Ultimate Rap LeagueTommy the Clown, and street dance from partners like BattleFest, and Turf Inc.,with new, related content launching every month.

The Red Bull Dance Your Style National Finals USA in Washington D.C. spans a full weekend, taking place from Friday, October 22 through Saturday, October 23, and provides a platform for artists to come together. The programming will have a line-up of curated dance events, workshops and performances featuring DJ, producer, label owner, and director TT The Artist and other iconic dancers and scene leaders. This final competition will give dancers a last shot to move onto the Red Bull Dance Your Style World Finals, by battling wildcards at random including AngyilKrow and Princess Lockeroo.

2021 RED BULL DANCE YOUR STYLE U.S. SCHEDULE

Following 80 events in over 39 countries all around the globe, dance’s heavy-hitters will come together to battle for the third-ever Red Bull Dance Your Style World Championship title. For more information about where to buy tickets and event details follow the Red Bull Dance Your Style website and be sure to follow Red Bull Dance on InstagramTik TokYouTube and Caffeine.

ABOUT RED BULL DANCE YOUR STYLE 

Red Bull Dance Your Style is a global all-styles street dance event series with a unique battle format. From hip hop to house, to locking to popping – dancers participating in Red Bull Dance Your Style will need to ‘wow’ the crowd and ultimately win their vote. Testing freestyle and musicality skills through unpredictable mainstream tracks ranging from recent global hits to classic beats, Red Bull Dance Your Style will have the crowd deciding who will rule the dance floor.

illustration by Mina Tocalini for use by 360 Magazine

New Orleans Nonprofits Announce First Equity in Hospitality Working Group

Beloved Community, the racial and economic equity focused nonprofit, in partnership with the Made in New Orleans Foundation (MiNO), an organization that leads the world in growing, supporting, and financing the success of BIPOC in the hospitality industry, announced the inaugural class of Beloved Community’s Equity at Work: Hospitality. Funding is being provided by Conrad N. Hilton Foundation.

Equity at Work: Hospitality is a first of its kind cohort-based program designed to guide restaurant, hotel, and other hospitality leaders to support a hospitality industry in New Orleans that works for all people, especially BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) who have been historically and systematically marginalized across industries, in this country. Many of the cohort participants have engaged in previous workshops and conversations in the industry via MiNO, the New Orleans Multicultural Tourism Network and the Racial Equity Institute and were excited to take the next step towards creating policies and practices that forward equity.

“We’re inspired by the work that MiNO is leading in the New Orleans hospitality industry and are excited to see the positive change that can occur in a region when industry leaders deepen their commitments to racial and economic equity,” said Beloved Community Founder and CEO, Rhonda Broussard.

During this two-year program participating businesses will have the opportunity to conduct Beloved’s Equity Audit. The audit will examine areas of governance and leadership, supplier diversity, resources and finance, pedagogies, and curriculum, along with talent and adult culture. In addition to the equity audit, the program scope includes workplace training, consultation appointments, development of a three-year equity work plan, and access to a supportive community of likeminded business leaders committed to equity.

“We have been actively discussing and planning for an Equity at Work Hospitality cohort since 2019 and the events of the past year made it even more clear that this scope of work is crucial for this industry to be able to rebuild in a more racially and economically equitable way,” said Beloved Community Director of Education & Programming, Dr. Nicole Caridad Ralston. Dr. Ralston will be serving alongside Kevin Lewis as project manager and consultant for the participating businesses.

Another benefit that Beloved Community and MiNo are offering is drop-in lunch and learn sessions beginning in October that will be open to any hospitality business in New Orleans, even those who are not participating in the full cohort experience. These one-hour sessions will focus on how to center racial equity & inclusion in your business practices.

The 23 New Orleans restaurants and hospitality organizations participating in the inaugural class include:

Addis
Bacchanal Wine and The Elysian Bar
Blue Giant
Commander’s Palace
Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management Delgado
Faubourg Brewery
Galaxie
Gracious Bakery
Habana Outpost New Orleans
Happy Raptor Distilling
Hotel Peter & Paul
Hotel Saint Vincent
LeBLANC+SMITH
Link Restaurant Group
Marjie’s Grill and Seafood Sally’s
Mister Mao
NOCHI
Paladar 511
Palm&Pine
Pizza Delicious
QED Hospitality
Reginelli’s Pizzeria
Windsor Court Hotel
Cafe Reconcile

“We are excited to be partnering with the equity experts of Beloved Community to address the deep-seated issues of racial inequality in the hospitality industry. The businesses that applied and were selected to join the inaugural class have taken an important step as a cohort to creating equitable work environments where all employees thrive,” said Lauren Darnell, Executive Director of Made in New Orleans.

About Beloved Community
Beloved Community, headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, is a non-profit consulting firm focused on implementing sustainable solutions for racial and economic equity. Through individualized and personalized support, Beloved Community fosters open lines of communication and realistic plans to create and implement tangible, measurable systemic change at work, at home, and in schools. Our approach is universal, achieving results for organizations in the not-for-profit sector, hospitality, school administrations, affordable housing and beyond.

Thompson Hollywood image for use by 360 magazine

THOMPSON HOLLYWOOD LOS ANGELES

THOMPSON HOLLYWOOD DEBUTS IN THE HEART OF LOS ANGELES

The 190-Room Property Expands Thompson Hotels’ West Coast Footprint with Interior Design by Tara Bernerd & Partners, Signature Dining Concepts from Acclaimed Chef Lincoln Carson, the Bar Lis Rooftop Lounge and Beyond

Hyatt Hotels Corporation (NYSE: H) is proud to announce the debut of Thompson Hollywood, the luxury lifestyle hotel situated on Wilcox Avenue near Hollywood and Vine. A dynamic mix of global sophistication, hyperVaughn-local immersion and intuitive service, the prime location embodies the Thompson Hotels brand’s promise to provide guests with the ultimate “in-the-know” experience at the refined edge of travel. The new 11-story hotel features 190 mid-century-inspired guestrooms, including 16 suites, a sophisticated feature dining concept from acclaimed LA-based chef Lincoln Carson and Bar Lis, a destination rooftop lounge and pool with unparalleled city views. Sure to be a gathering spot for tasteful travelers and the eclectic Hollywood community alike, the much-anticipated project is owned by Relevant Group in collaboration with Steinberg Hart for architecture and interior design by Tara Bernerd & Partners, with Ten Five Hospitality overseeing food and beverage.

Innovative Design and Enviable City Views

Thoughtfully designed by renowned London-based interior architecture studio Tara Bernerd & Partners, the 11-floor hotel innovatively combines the hallmarks of timeless elegance with a raw industrial edge to create a unique atmosphere that is relaxing and inspiring, familiar, and new. The overall design is bold and confident, drawing upon the West Coast Modernist movement and a dash of Hollywood glamour as inspirations to seamlessly blend for a contemporary and elegant approach throughout.

Upon entry, a trellis-covered walkway beckons guests to a lobby adorned in mid-toned timber and teeming with verdant greenery, forming a tranquil and welcoming haven upon arrival. A spectacular custom terrazzo floor awaits guests underfoot, featuring an intricate metal inlay pattern that perfectly complements the elegant mid-century and contemporary furniture, bespoke Tara Bernerd & Partners rugs and inviting terrazzo reception desk. The convenient lobby bar – topped with a striking retro-green onyx – serves up coffee, cocktails, or casual bites for those coming, going, or staying to socialize, all with the laid-back hospitality and inclusive spirit emblematic of the Thompson Hotels brand’s desire to ensure everyone who walks through the doors feels more like a resident than a guest.

Throughout the property and into the guestrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows flood rooms with natural sunlight, offering sweeping vantage points of the Hollywood Hills and beyond, and immersing guests directly in the city’s bustling energy. Guest bathrooms feature walls and vanities finished in rich terrazzo amidst contrasting pale-tiled floors, while exclusive D.S. & DURGA amenities add another touch of luxury to the experience. An honor bar containing various curated selections, lustrous Egyptian cotton linens, 55-inch smart televisions, and a state-of-the art 24-hour fitness studio round out the other exceptional amenities that elevate every stay.

Through layers of inviting textures, timeless mid-century furniture and finishings, luxurious terrazzo details and a curated selection of modern art throughout, Thompson Hollywood redefines the notion of Hollywood glamour and is poised to become one of Los Angeles’ chicest destinations for culturally astute travelers and locals alike.

“Every touchpoint of the Thompson Hollywood experience has been concepted for the discerning traveler, particularly as pent-up travel demand has tourists and locals seeking memorable moments,” states Bruno Vergeynst, Managing Director of Thompson Hollywood. “Whether it’s the thoughtfully designed lobby and guestrooms by Tara Bernerd & Partners, chef Carson’s sophisticated dining concepts, the Bar Lis rooftop lounge or our intuitive guest programming, Thompson Hollywood invites guests to embrace a breezy Angeleno lifestyle.”

Evocative Food and Beverage Concepts 

Thompson Hotels are known for featuring world-class culinary destinations on property. Thompson Hollywood features two exceptional food and beverage experiences created and operated by Ten Five Hospitality. They include the Martin Brudnizki-designed signature restaurant, Mes Amis, a modern French brasserie, and Bar Lis, a French Riviera-inspired rooftop bar with spectacular wraparound views of Hollywood and Greater Los Angeles.

Helmed by celebrated chef Lincoln Carson, Mes Amis (French for “My Friends”) draws inspiration from bustling cafés and brasseries from Paris to Lyon while reflecting a decidedly Southern California sensibility. The menu reinterprets classic French dishes with an approachable bent, using the freshest produce and ingredients from local farms and markets, including the world-renowned Hollywood Farmers’ Market. Mes Amis is a new chapter for chef Carson following his nationally acclaimed Bon Temps, which received accolades from Food & Wine, Esquire and the Los Angeles Times. An industry leader and James Beard Foundation-nominated pastry chef, Carson’s background also includes stints at New York’s Le Bernardin, La Cote Basque, The Mina Group, Superba Food + Bread and more.

Designed by Bernadette Blanc, Bar Lis sits atop Thompson Hollywood, representing the crown jewel of the experience. Chic without pretention, the new rooftop bar captures the iconic spirit and playfully sophisticated vibe of the Cote D’Azur. Serving inventive cocktails as well as fresh bites of locally sourced seafood, crudité and authentic bistro classics under the open sky, guests can enjoy Sunset Hour with unobstructed views of the Hollywood Hills, including the Hollywood sign. Bar Lis’ retractable roof ensures all-weather, all-year-round entertainment while a dedicated entrance with private elevator allows for more exclusive soirees. At night, Bar Lis comes alive with vintage and contemporary DJ sets, making it the perfect spot to top off the stay.

“Introducing Thompson Hollywood in one of Los Angeles’ most sought-after real estate market is a groundbreaking move for the hospitality brand,” says Grant King, Managing Partner of Relevant Group. “This property not only perfectly sits at the storied intersection of the technology, media and entertainment realms, but will inevitably heighten Hollywood’s visibility as a coveted hospitality destination.”

Located nearby to Sunset Strip, Runyon Canyon, the Hollywood Bowl, Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Boulevard, the Capitol Records Building and more, Thompson Hollywood sits at the very nexus of Los Angeles’ most appealing sites. The property joins other Thompson Hotels that are slated to debut in 2021, including Thompson Savannah, Thompson Denver, Thompson Buckhead and Thompson Austin.

Nightly rates begin at $399. For more information about Thompson Hollywood, please click here.

Guided by its purpose of care, Hyatt’s multi-layered Global Care & Cleanliness Commitment further enhances its operational guidance and resources around colleague and guest safety and peace of mind. More information on Hyatt’s commitment can be found here.

travel illustration by Kaelen Felix for 360 Magazine

Route 66: A Road Trip Through Portugal’s Heartland

Road trips offer a rewarding way to explore and create memories in a new country. The editors at International Living have just released an eight-day itinerary for hitting the road on Portugal’s ‘Route 66’ through the nation’s heartland — a worthwhile and rewarding expedition.

It’s hard to beat the slower pace, the backroads options, the pleasant surprises found off the beaten track in a country – especially today in Portugal. From north to south, and from the Atlantic west to the Spanish east, this country’s gracious people, brilliant sun, tantalizing beaches, and verdant valleys provide a varied landscape, historic points of interest, delightful towns, and a worthwhile adventure.

“Most everyone who visits or lives in Portugal stops at hotspots like Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve but far fewer venture beyond,” says Terry Coles, International Living Portugal Correspondent. “There is the road less traveled that cut through the center of the country for those looking for more adventure.”

The Estrada Nacional 2, or just N2, is the longest national road in Portugal at 739 kilometers. In fact, it’s one of the longest national roads in the world, outdistanced only by Route 66 in the U.S. and Route 40 in Argentina. The N2 begins in the far north, below the Spanish border in the city of Chaves, and ends at the city of Faro in the Algarve. It passes through rugged mountains, the exquisite, terraced vineyards of the Douro, historic villages, and ends along the impressive coastline.

“Driving the N2 without stopping along the way takes between six and seven hours but offers little to no enjoyment,” Coles advises. “My husband Clyde and I allowed ourselves a full eight days, stopping briefly in some towns while lingering longer in others.”

In the just-released itinerary, Coles outlines the best way to navigate Portugal’s ‘Route 66’ in eight days. Here are the highlights of the first three:

Day 1: Chaves, Vidago, Pedras Salgadas, Vila Pouca de Aguiar, Castelo, Vila Real

Chaves is the place to start. This charming city with a population of about 42,000 retains its old town center, complimented by a medieval castle with gardens offering mountain views in the distance. Historic churches, tiny shops, and restaurants dot the city while a well-preserved Roman bridge crosses the Tâmega river.

“Pick up an N2 passport at the nearby tourist office and have it stamped, officially marking the start of this iconic road trip,” says Coles. “The passport book includes a map and suggests 35 stops along the route, with indications of places to have the passport stamped as a nice keepsake.”

“Vila Pouca de Aguiar was by far one of our favorite stops along the N2 and a highlight of our first day. Dating back to Roman times, one of the must-see’s here is a castle situated in the mountains, accessed by a craggy, unpaved road.”

“Upon closer look we realized that the castle was nothing more than a small, ruined tower and decided it was not worth hiking up to. As Clyde pulled the car over, looking for a spot to safely turn around, we stumbled upon a tiny village of granite homes where time had seemingly come to a standstill. A small community of mostly elderly farmers lived in this village called ‘Castelo,’ aptly named for the castle that once stood nearby. Since we were in their private space, we asked permission in Portuguese to take photographs and all happily obliged, even including themselves in a few.”

Day 2: The Alto Douro Wine Region and Peso da Régua

The city of Porto is a popular destination for those who desire to see the spectacular views of the Douro Valley and river by the same name. Yet, the lesser-known area called the Alto Douro sits virtually unnoticed in the center of the country, near the city of Peso da Régua.Tourists here can take day trips along the Douro River. Some offer round-trip voyages while others offer train rides back from Porto.

“This was another favorite stop on our road trip,” Coles says. “Breathtaking views of lush vineyards climbing the impressive hills that surrounded the area. Jaw-dropping scenery as far as our eyes could see. I could almost taste the fragrant wines that filled the air, but that indulgence would need to wait until later.

“We spent an extra night in Peso da Réguaa city of 17,000 that sits alongside the Douro River. The city once served as a vital component in the country’s wine production and the sale of port wine. It was here that the wine was put into barrels and shipped to Vila Nova de Gaia, near Porto, where it was left to age in wine cellars. Today the area is dotted with elegant mansions perched on hills, surrounded by impressive, terraced vineyards bearing signs with the names of the families who own them.”

Day 3: Lamego, Castro Daire, Viseu

Lamego, Coles, reports, was a highlight of Day 3. This ancient city of about 12,000, sits nestled among the terraced vineyards of the Douro. It has retained its historic city center, characterized by steep, rocky streets leading up to its medieval castle. A few handsome churches still exist nearby, while locals mingle with friends at nearby cafes.

The stunning Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedios, erected in 1750, is where tourists climb the imposing baroque staircase (which has 686 steps). Those who make it to the top are rewarded with a panoramic view overlooking the area.

The full eight-day itinerary of Portugal’s ‘Route 66’ can be found on International Living.

1975 Opel Manta image for use by 360 Magazine

Hot Wheels Legends Tour in Detroit

Hot Wheels Legends Tour Presented by Mobil 1 Arrives in Detroit on August 7

  • Scores of custom car creations from across the Midwest to be featured – submit your entry now!
  • Live judging continues in Detroit with Motor City mavens helping to choose the next Legends Tour finalist
  • Family-friendly outing will take place at Walmart Livonia from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. EDT

The Hot Wheels Legends Tour presented by Mobil 1 is heading to the Motor City and set to feature the best garage builds in the Detroit area. Taking place on Saturday, August 7, the second in-person live event of the 2021 Hot Wheels Legends Tour will see one additional finalist from North America move on for a chance to have their custom car become the next Hot Wheels 1:64 die-cast toy.

With only four finalist spots remaining for the U.S. and Canada, an expert panel of judges – including Cristy Lee of All Girls Garage and Rory Carroll, Editor in Chief, Jalopnik – will be on the hunt for those builds that best embody the Hot Wheels passion for authenticity, creativity and garage spirit. Gamuts of custom fan cars are already registered, and onsite experiences and appearances by Hot Wheels Garage of Legends icons Twin Mill, Bone Shaker, Deora II and Midas Monkey guarantee fun for the whole family.

“The Motor City never disappoints and the entries we’re already seeing are a true testament to the legendary automotive history and enthusiasm of this iconic city,” said Ted Wu, Global Head of Design for Hot Wheels. “We already know that competition will be steep between all the great customs from Detroit.”

As in previous events, the Detroit winner will advance to the Semi-Finals later this year and then possibly the Global Grand Finale for a chance to have his/her car inducted into the Hot Wheels Garage of Legends and immortalized as the next 1:64 die-cast toy sold in Walmart stores around the world. To date, North American winners include a 1968 Mercedes Benz 250S from Penticton, British Columbia, Canada, a custom aluminum racer named Lulu from Santa Fe, New Mexico, the 1969 Daytona Charger Superbird “Scraptona” from Macob, Michigan and the Miami-winning 1929 Ford Model A dubbed “Loosie.”

This event will take place at Walmart Livonia located at 29555 Plymouth Rd, Livonia, MI 48150 from 8:00 a.m. to 12 p.m. EDT. For more information, visit the Hot Wheels Facebook page.

Upcoming Tour Dates include:

  • August 26: Virtual Livestream
  • September 18: In-Person Event in Houston, Texas
  • October 9: In-Person Event & Social Coverage from El Segundo, California
  • October 28: Global Virtual Livestream Semi-Finals #1
  • November 4: Global Virtual Livestream Semi-Finals #2
  • November 13: Global Grand Finale In-Person Event & Livestream (Location TBD)

Fans may register their cars for one of the upcoming virtual and in-person events or learn more about the Hot Wheels Legends Tour here. To check out the Hot Wheels Garage of Legends, visit the official website.