Author: Golden State Review Contributor

The 2023 California State Fair, held from July 14 to July 30 at Cal Expo in Sacramento, was a vibrant celebration of the Golden State’s food culture, bringing together local artisans, food enthusiasts, and industry professionals. Known for its rich agricultural history, California took center stage this year with a showcase of everything from olive oils to craft beers, emphasizing the growing importance of sustainability, local sourcing, and innovation in the food industry. Several key events stood out, demonstrating California’s dominance in the artisanal food market and its commitment to sustainability. California Commercial EVOO Competition: A Celebration of Excellence in…

The concept of a “digital detox” took center stage in New York City as wellness experts, tech leaders, and mental health advocates gathered for the inaugural Unplugged Summit. The event focused on the growing trend of disconnecting from digital devices to prioritize mental health, well-being, and personal relationships. With the overwhelming presence of smartphones, social media, and constant connectivity, many people are seeking ways to disconnect and recharge. Key figures at the summit included Dr. Emily Harris, a clinical psychologist specializing in digital addiction, and Bill McMillan, the CEO of WellnessTech, a company that has developed tools and apps designed…

Bank of America has revealed a significant 9% increase in its quarterly dividend, raising it from 22 cents to 24 cents per share. This decision comes on the heels of the bank’s success in passing the Federal Reserve’s annual stress test, which gauges the financial health of large institutions under extreme economic scenarios. The raise reflects not only the bank’s robust financial position but also its confidence in the broader economic recovery and its ability to navigate future challenges. The Federal Reserve’s stress test is a crucial tool used to evaluate the resilience of major financial institutions. The test simulates…

On July 8, 2023, the prestigious San Francisco International Film Festival (SFIFF) kicked off its two-week celebration of cinema, marking its return to in-person screenings after the challenges posed by the pandemic. The festival opened with the world premiere of “Echoes of Silence,” a thought-provoking drama directed by local filmmaker Rachel Tan, which explores themes of identity, mental health, and the immigrant experience. Tan, a rising star in the indie film scene, was present at the opening night gala, where she shared insights into her creative process and the inspiration behind her debut feature. The SFIFF is a key event…

On July 6, 2023, California Governor Gavin Newsom introduced a new climate strategy aimed at positioning the state as a global leader in clean energy and environmental sustainability. The plan, known as California Green Future, outlines ambitious goals to accelerate the transition to renewable energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and achieve net-zero emissions by 2045. The initiative is particularly timely, as California continues to grapple with the increasing effects of climate change, from wildfires and droughts to extreme weather patterns and rising sea levels. Governor Newsom, joined by environmental advocates, business leaders, and state policymakers, presented the California Green Future…

Los Angeles hosted its annual EcoFashion Week, a celebration of sustainable fashion that has rapidly gained popularity in recent years. Held at the Los Angeles Convention Center, this event brought together designers, activists, and consumers to showcase the best in eco-conscious fashion. From clothing made of recycled materials to locally sourced fabrics and carbon-neutral production processes, the event highlighted how the fashion industry is evolving to become more environmentally responsible. Key figures involved in this transformation include Stella McCartney, the renowned British designer known for her commitment to cruelty-free and sustainable fashion. McCartney has been a vocal advocate for the…

On July 5, 2023, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law a landmark climate action bill that aims to reduce the state’s greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2035, marking a significant step toward achieving the state’s ambitious goal of carbon neutrality by 2045. The bill, known as the California Clean Air and Carbon Reduction Act, sets a new precedent for environmental policy in the United States and underscores California’s continued leadership in tackling climate change. The bill includes a series of measures designed to reduce carbon emissions from sectors such as transportation, agriculture, and energy production. Among the key…

In a landmark moment, the U.S. Congress has passed a comprehensive gun safety law, a significant step toward addressing the persistent challenge of gun violence in the country. The law, a product of bipartisan cooperation, comes at a critical juncture as the U.S. grapples with rising gun violence, mass shootings, and ongoing debates about the role of mental health in these tragedies. This unprecedented legislative effort aims to reduce the frequency and severity of gun-related incidents and protect communities across the nation. Key Provisions of the Gun Safety Bill A central component of the new law is the expansion of…

On June 27, 2023, California lawmakers and Governor Gavin Newsom finalized a significant health care agreement, securing $19.4 billion in funding to bolster the state’s Medi-Cal program and address behavioral health needs. The deal, which includes the renewal of the Managed Care Organization (MCO) Tax, aims to enhance access to care for millions of low-income Californians and support the state’s ongoing efforts to reform behavioral health services. Key Components of the Agreement Medi-Cal Funding: Approximately $11.1 billion of the MCO Tax revenue will be allocated directly to Medi-Cal, California’s Medicaid program. This funding is intended to increase reimbursement rates for…

The small town of Asheville, North Carolina, celebrated the reopening of the historic Asheville Craft Market, marking a significant milestone in the town’s ongoing efforts to revive local craftsmanship and support sustainable businesses. The market, which originally opened in the 1940s and closed in 2015, had been a vital part of the town’s economy and culture. In the years since its closure, local artisans and residents have been working hard to bring it back as a space for showcasing local, handmade goods in a more modern, sustainable way. The market’s reopening was attended by over 3,000 people, including local artisans,…