OPINION | Leaving L.A., an observation

Always wanted to be here in Hollywood. It was always my dream, like many.

As a teen growing up in Florida, I watched the “it” girls of the 2000s and many other celebrities frolicking thru the streets of West Hollywood and always wanted to experience the same places. I had an affection for Marilyn Monroe, and all of the old Hollywood history. So when I finally made it here in 2013, 1 was so excited and in the years that followed. I couldn’t find a reason to leave. So many other influences of international cultures as well. Incredible food and nightlife. Plus, the weather here is incomparable.

And there’s no denying that the way of thinking here feels fresh and creative.. and younger.

But as someone who’s lived in this area for 9 years, I can genuinely say I’ve seen it transform so much in that short time. 2020/COVID had a big impact on LA (just like every major city) but it seems the pandemic really pushed this city to it’s limits – and not only economically, but also by illuminating the lack of leadership on a local government level. I’m not going to get political, but Los Angeles needs balance. If there was ever a place that would benefit from a healthy 2-party system it’s Southern California. You can’t ignore huge issues like homelessness, and definitely not in the wake of a world-changing pandemic. However, there also can’t be a system of enabling that’s created. I lean quite liberal myself, and am so grateful for the resources more progressive cities like LA have to offer, but watching people go homeless and then be housed in historic hotels is just crazy to me.

Which brings me to another point, why doesn’t this city value it’s tourism? Approximate 50 million people visited Los Angeles in 2022, but when they get to Hollywood thev’re met with a horrendous experience.

Not only do they have to dodge the seedy “characters” trying to price gouge them for a tacky picture that will last 24 hrs on their Snapchat, but they also have to walk through literal piss and dirt to see their favorite stars on a sidewalk that has no other real focal points. Multiple historic theaters laying dormant makes no sense, and why anyone would let Pig & Whistle become a Mexican restaurant is beyond me. (Also, the vendors on the Walk of Fame have gotten ridiculous – there should not be propane tanks on makeshift kitchens lining the busy street. It’s a tragic accident waiting to happen. And where are the animal rights activists to get those snake handlers banned? )

Getting to the sign is a joke. The idea that it’s not illuminated at night in any way is absurd — but it’s also further proof that the city is oblivious to what it’s most iconic landmarks need to survive an era of skepticism and revelation. And when the TMZ Tour is the best value to see the city, you know it’s gotta be slim pickings. I won’t go into the lack of parking, or the traumatic experience that is the MetroLA system, but I have to assume city planning can’t be a priority when you have flash mob robberies bringing you worldwide shame.

I am going to be moving out of state, mostly because I can’t afford to be here anymore. My parents helped as much as they could, but it gets to a point where you look to get off the loop. People need to be paid what they’re worth, and not just the bare minimum that an employer can budget to maximize their profits. Greed is unfortunately a main currency in LA, whether it be blatant social climbing or literal sugar babies, so many people here are desperate to live in excess yet the majority of us are living paycheck to paycheck just so we can chase our childhood dreams. Speaking of people though, I won’t really miss anyone. There’s a coldness in LA that I find ironic being a born and raised New Yorker who always heard after moving to Florida, how “mean” people from NY are. It’s true. a NYr might have a more neurotic approach, but at least they’ll talk to you. People here are soooo consumed with themselves that they have zero capacity for others.

There’s a huge lack of self awareness and communication… in a city of aspiring performers and entertainers? Lol imagine that.

All that to say, I hope to be back one day. Call me a glutton for punishment, but I love California and I really have a special place for LA. My real wish is that some balance can be found in this city and many others.

Best of luck to all.

— Published by Vincent Thomas on Nextdoor.