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Articles by Rick Mason
Policy Update: Healthcare for Uninsured Angelenos is Under Threat Again
Health coverage for the uninsured in Los Angeles hits a roadblock Funding that Los Angeles County voters approved to provide healthcare for the uninsured, and to make up for federal cuts to County health programs, just hit a roadblock. At the same time, more of our patients are losing coverage, and a measure on the November ballot threatens the clinics that care for them.
APLA Health 2026 Voter Guide
APLA Health is proud to offer this guide for the November 2026 general election, covering the statewide ballot measures with the greatest impact on healthcare access, LGBTQ+ rights, and HIV policy. As a non-profit, APLA Health cannot endorse or oppose candidates, but we can take positions on ballot initiatives, and have done so where they affect the communities we serve and care that we provide. Please vote! Your vote carries the most weight in state and local elections.
Rick Mason’s Humdinger Showcased at American Library Association Annual Conference & Exhibition
Rick Mason’s Humdinger Showcased at American Library Association Annual Conference & Exhibition DOVER, OH, UNITED STATES, September 11, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ -- Rick Mason’s mystery thriller Humdinger was showcased during the American Library Association Annual Conference & Exhibition, placing the title before an audience of librarians, educators, publishing professionals, literary representatives, and readers attending the event.
APLA Health's 42nd Annual AIDS Walk Los Angeles Returns to West Hollywood on October 18, 2026
Lucky Break PR Mark Umbach, mark@luckybreakpr.com Sahra Simpson, sahra@luckybreakpr.com 8.25.2026 With the theme “Defend Care, Demand Action,” the walk spotlights the urgent need for affordable HIV care, prevention, and treatment LOS ANGELES (August 25, 2026) - On Sunday, October 18 at 10:30 a.m., thousands of Angelenos will fill West Hollywood Park for the 42nd annual AIDS Walk Los Angeles, a fundraising event celebrating life, honoring those who have been lost, and taking action against HIV.
Forty Years of Open Doors
How our dental program became a lifeline — and why it faces its next great test In the spring of 1984, two dentists sat in a kitchen in Glendale and asked each other a simple question: who was going to take care of the patients no one else would see? Dr. Jon Bauer and Dr. Ronald LeBaron watched as the AIDS crisis devastated their community. People with HIV were losing their jobs, their insurance, and in many cases their dentists.
Big wins (and a few losses) in California’s new budget
Media Contact: Joe Hui Director of Communications jhui@aplahealth.org 213.201.1342 7.8.2026 This past month, APLA Health joined health care advocates across California to fight deep cuts to the programs millions of people rely on to see a doctor, fill a prescription, and stay healthy. Governor Newsom had proposed those cuts over the past year, and we pushed the Legislature hard to stop them. And it worked — mostly.
New Satirical Thriller Humdinger by Rick Mason Delivers a Wild Ride Through Crime, Politics, and Absurdity
NORTHEAST , OH, UNITED STATES, March 27, 2026 / EINPresswire.com/ -- Northeast Ohio Author and U.S. Army veteran Rick Mason introduces readers to a wildly entertaining world of mystery, satire, and high-stakes investigation in his debut novel Humdinger. Blending suspense, dark humor, and sharp social commentary, the novel takes readers on a chaotic journey through deception, corruption, and unexpected twists.
Dirty Dancing in Concert
With songs such as "Time of My Life," "Hungry Eyes" and "Be My Baby" on the soundtrack, it seems natural that the classic movie "Dirty Dancing" would be turned into a concert event. The "Dirty Dancing in Concert" tour will be at Embassy Theatre at 8 p.m. Feb. 14.
Best in Drag Show Returns with Star-Studded Cast of Judges
APLA Health & Wellness is a Health Center Program grantee under 42 U.S.C. 254b, and a deemed Public Health Service employee under 42 U.S.C. 233(g)-(n) for purposes of medical malpractice claims and, as such, qualified for protection under the Federal Tort Claims Act.
APLA Health Mourns the Loss and Celebrates the Life of Jewel Thais-Williams
Media Contact: Joe Hui Director of Communications jhui@aplahealth.org 213.201.1342 7.8.2025 In response to the passing of Jewel Thais-Williams, APLA Health CEO Craig E. Thompson issued the following statement: "APLA Health joins the many voices across Los Angeles and the nation in mourning the passing of Jewel Thais-Williams, a pioneering activist, entrepreneur, and longtime champion for racial justice, LGBTQ+ health, and HIV/AIDS care.
U.S. v. Skrmetti Is a Profound Setback for Transgender Youth and Their Families
Media Contact: Joe Hui Director of Communications jhui@aplahealth.org 213.201.1342 6.18.2025 Today’s Supreme Court decision in U.S. v. Skrmetti is a profound setback for transgender youth and their families across the country.
Request to Protect and Preserve HIV and STD Prevention Infrastructure in Los Angeles County
Media Contact: Joe Hui Director of Communications jhui@aplahealth.org 213.201.1342 5.8.2025 As a follow up to the May 6, 2025, policy update on the End the Epidemics Coalition (ETE) Day of Action in Sacramento, this week APLA Health met with representatives from the Board of Supervisors and submitted the following letter urging the Board to identify emergency funding that will preserve our LA County HIV and STD prevention infrastructure while advocates fight for ongoing resources from the...
HIV Coalition Urges California to Backfill $60 Million in Federal-Level CDC Cuts
Media Contact: Joe Hui Director of Communications jhui@aplahealth.org 213.201.1342 5.6.2025 End the Epidemics–a coalition of more than 120 community-based organizations working to end the HIV, STI, viral hepatitis, and overdose epidemics in California–is calling for the state legislature and Governor Gavin Newsom to allocate $60 million in state funding to cover cuts at the federal level to HIV prevention.
The New Swiffer Sweep + Mop Deluxe Elevates Your Everyday Clean with a Stick That Collapses in Half for Easy Storage in Small Spaces Original
Finally, a clean that clicks. The Swiffer Sweeper’s biggest innovation in 25+ years is an essential two-in-one cleaning tool that offers improved durability and storage CINCINNATI--(BUSINESS WIRE)--According to a recent survey, the average person stores eighteen different cleaning products around the home1. As cluttered cleaning closets become increasingly more common, many are searching for a more compact yet effective solution.
Secret Invasion: Who Did Nick Fury Call At The End Of Episode 5? Original
Highlights Fury called Gravik at the end of Secret Invasion episode 5, indicating that he's ready to finish the conflict and give him the Harvest vial. It's unlikely that Fury called Captain Marvel or another Avenger for aid, as he has previously stated that he can't risk the Skrulls imitating them. While a Captain Marvel cameo is possible in the future, it would be contradictory for Fury to suddenly bring in a superhero to help at the last moment.
COMMENTARY: Connor chasing people away from Christ
COMMENTARY: Connor chasing people away from Christ Brennan Manning once wrote, “The greatest single cause of atheism in the world today is Christians who acknowledge Jesus with their lips and walk out the door and deny Him by their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable.” Bill Connor needs to take these words to heart.
Body cameras: City’s misplaced priorities revealed
It seems to me that something as important as body cameras for public protection, as well as police department protection, would have been a priority for the City of Tacoma before now, considering all the situations that have happened in the last few years. The city found money to help pay for a light-rail extension to 19th Street, which I feel was a waste of public funds, as we already have Pierce Transit buses running in that area. So they should be able to find funds for body cameras somewhere.
Parasitic wasps murder insects with a smallpox-like virus
Many of our readers and friends are scientists and experts in their fields. Would that stop mansplainers from talking down to them? We asked if they had any stories of being mansplained to, and they did not disappoint. Here are a few of our favorites. If you have stories you'd like to contribute, please email me at dan@massivesci.com, or DM me on Twitter (@d_samorodnitsky). Anonymity guaranteed. All the below respondents asked to remain anonymous. These quotes have been lightly edited for clarity.
CDC chimes in on disinfecting and reopening during pandemic
Many of our readers and friends are scientists and experts in their fields. Would that stop mansplainers from talking down to them? We asked if they had any stories of being mansplained to, and they did not disappoint. Here are a few of our favorites. If you have stories you'd like to contribute, please email me at dan@massivesci.com, or DM me on Twitter (@d_samorodnitsky). Anonymity guaranteed. All the below respondents asked to remain anonymous. These quotes have been lightly edited for clarity.
And now some stories of scientists getting mansplained to
Many of our readers and friends are scientists and experts in their fields. Would that stop mansplainers from talking down to them? We asked if our readers had any stories of being mansplained to, and you did not disappoint. Here are a few of our favorites. If you have stories you'd like to contribute, please email Senior Editor Dan Samorodnitsky at dan@massivesci.com, or DM him on Twitter (@d_samorodnitsky). Anonymity guaranteed. All the below respondents asked to remain anonymous.
Tinkering with brain proteins may add insulation back to damaged nerve cells
Many of our readers and friends are scientists and experts in their fields. Would that stop mansplainers from talking down to them? We asked if they had any stories of being mansplained to, and they did not disappoint. Here are a few of our favorites. If you have stories you'd like to contribute, please email me at dan@massivesci.com, or DM me on Twitter (@d_samorodnitsky). Anonymity guaranteed. All the below respondents asked to remain anonymous. These quotes have been lightly edited for clarity.
On National DNA Day, scientists are trying to take the colonialism out of genetics
Scientists are trying to tackle the lack of diversity seen in genomics research, but even ambitious efforts, like the NIH’s All of Us program, often fall short, especially when it comes to the inclusion of Indigenous communities. This is one of the reasons why the Decolonize DNA Day conference is taking place on April 24th, one day before the National DNA Day.
A real world version of Pokémon Go lets you track orangutans in the jungle
Many of our readers and friends are scientists and experts in their fields. Would that stop mansplainers from talking down to them? We asked if our readers had any stories of being mansplained to, and you did not disappoint. Here are a few of our favorites. If you have stories you'd like to contribute, please email Senior Editor Dan Samorodnitsky at dan@massivesci.com, or DM him on Twitter (@d_samorodnitsky). Anonymity guaranteed. All the below respondents asked to remain anonymous.
First patient receives CRISPR treatment for genetic eye disorder
Get new Lab Notes sent to your inbox Submit a note Submit your own Lab Note Share an interesting science story or tell a short one of your own Since the 1940's, when the word "autism" was introduced in the US, diagnoses and treatments have skyrocketed in prevalence and normalcy. In fact, the United States now estimates 1 in 54 American children have some form of Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
Vegan gut bacteria swim more than their carnivorous counterparts
After the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the coronavirus outbreak is officially a pandemic, countries around the world have responded accordingly. Universities in Canada and the US are closing, non-essential conferences and sports leagues are being canceled, and people are being advised to halt all travel plans. Anyone can get infected, and the only way to slow down the outbreak is to reduce the number of people getting infected.
Intergalactic pasta may hold the secrets to the universe
After the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the coronavirus outbreak is officially a pandemic, countries around the world have responded accordingly. Universities in Canada and the US are closing, non-essential conferences and sports leagues are being canceled, and people are being advised to halt all travel plans. Anyone can get infected, and the only way to slow down the outbreak is to reduce the number of people getting infected.
NASA celebrates 50 years since Apollo 13, their most successful failure
After the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the coronavirus outbreak is officially a pandemic, countries around the world have responded accordingly. Universities in Canada and the US are closing, non-essential conferences and sports leagues are being canceled, and people are being advised to halt all travel plans. Anyone can get infected, and the only way to slow down the outbreak is to reduce the number of people getting infected.
LEGO bricks can take hundreds of years to degrade
Get new Lab Notes sent to your inbox Photo by Dušan Smetana on Unsplash The long list of non-human species where females reign supreme when it comes to choosing a mate is getting a new entry: the capybara. Scientists have just discovered prevailing female choice in what was once thought to be a male-dominated mating system. The capybara, Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris, is a semiaquatic rodent that can weigh up to 200 lbs.
How do predators learn to avoid the colors and patterns of poisonous prey?
After the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the coronavirus outbreak is officially a pandemic, countries around the world have responded accordingly. Universities in Canada and the US are closing, non-essential conferences and sports leagues are being canceled, and people are being advised to halt all travel plans. Anyone can get infected, and the only way to slow down the outbreak is to reduce the number of people getting infected.
Sanguine glimpses of positive environmental change on pandemic-Twitter
After the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the coronavirus outbreak is officially a pandemic, countries around the world have responded accordingly. Universities in Canada and the US are closing, non-essential conferences and sports leagues are being canceled, and people are being advised to halt all travel plans. Anyone can get infected, and the only way to slow down the outbreak is to reduce the number of people getting infected.
Researchers study the economics of mangroves by looking at nighttime satellite photos
We are currently living in a situation of extreme uncertainty, and if you are like me, you may have noticed yourself feeling extra anxious lately. Maybe you feel a constant ache it in your shoulders and neck. Maybe you are compulsively checking your phone, unable to tear your eyes away from Twitter and Facebook, or maybe you're extra irritable. According to medical professionals, these are very normal responses to the coronavirus pandemic.
Science games and challenges to pass the time while you are stuck at home
After the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the coronavirus outbreak is officially a pandemic, countries around the world have responded accordingly. Universities in Canada and the US are closing, non-essential conferences and sports leagues are being canceled, and people are being advised to halt all travel plans. Anyone can get infected, and the only way to slow down the outbreak is to reduce the number of people getting infected.
In Japan, it is already legal to create human-animal hybrid organisms - should we?
After the World Health Organization (WHO) declared that the coronavirus outbreak is officially a pandemic, countries around the world have responded accordingly. Universities in Canada and the US are closing, non-essential conferences and sports leagues are being canceled, and people are being advised to halt all travel plans. Anyone can get infected, and the only way to slow down the outbreak is to reduce the number of people getting infected.
The 2019 Twin Cities Jazz Fest starts today
Mears Park will host the main stage and several satellites while area clubs will also be busy. Performances at Mears will be free as usual, a bargain considering the quality of talent. Free workshops with musicians and jazz films will round out the festival. Two items of particular interest this year are that the Union Station youth stage has been renamed in honor of the late Larry Englund, the music journalist and DJ who had been very involved in festival planning.
Get creative with Legos at Jordan Library
Stop into the Jordan Library after school and build with Legos on Wednesday, March 13. The library provides the Legos and a theme, you provide the creativity! Join in the second Wednesday of each month after school and create with Legos. This program best enjoyed by kids ages 5 to 12. Caregivers for participants under the age of 8 are required to remain in the building and are encouraged to participate in the building fun.
Catch Beyoncé’s saxophonist, an acid jazz godfather, and Dee Dee Bridgewater at the 2018 Twin Cities Jazz Festival
Leading her nine-piece Memphis Soulphony, multiple-Grammy winning vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater will headline the keystone Saturday night show on Mears’ main stage. The band’s name is tied to her latest album, last fall’s Memphis . . .Yes, I’m Ready, a dazzling tribute to the distinctive soul and R&B of the city where she was born in 1950.
Catch Beyoncé’s saxophonist, an acid jazz godfather, and Dee Dee Bridgewater at the 2018 Twin Cities Jazz Fest
Leading her nine-piece Memphis Soulphony, multiple-Grammy winning vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater will headline the keystone Saturday night show on Mears’ main stage. The band’s name is tied to her latest album, last fall’s Memphis . . .Yes, I’m Ready, a dazzling tribute to the distinctive soul and R&B of the city where she was born in 1950.
Twin Cities Jazz Festival once more brings living legends, young lions, and local heroes to Lowertown
Internationally renowned artists and a deep roster of musicians from the thriving local jazz scene will command outdoor venues and multiple clubs scattered throughout the capital city. The combination of high-caliber talent and free access to the outdoor stages -- including two at Mears and another a block away at Union Station -- make the TC Fest easily one of the best jazz bargains anywhere.
10 acts to catch at the 2016 Twin Cities Jazz Fest in Lowertown St. Paul
Lowertown again will be ground zero for the 2016 Twin Cities Jazz Fest. The free annual festival presents virtually every incarnation of jazz from a deep array of national and local artists in and around Mears Park, Union Station, and Kellogg Park. Clubs throughout St. Paul will also show off the richness and diversity of the thriving local jazz scene. Headliners include two members of New Orleans’ illustrious Marsalis jazz family, Delfeayo (Thursday) and Ellis (Friday).
Davell Crawford delivers the tribute Allen Toussaint deserves at the Dakota
On Monday, the Grammys devoted a grand total of exactly six seconds of its bloated three-and-a-half hour telecast to acknowledge the passing of Allen Toussaint, the brilliant New Orleans musical renaissance man who in countless overt and subtle ways profoundly influenced popular music for a half century. On Wednesday night at the Dakota, Davell Crawford, more than a generation younger than Toussaint but also an heir to the great New Orleans piano tradition, compensated for the Grammy slight.
Twin Cities Jazz Festival director Francisco Mela dreams international
Cuba-born, New York-based Francisco Mela is a world-class percussionist who’s in demand all over the globe. He plays frequently with such heavyweights as Joe Lovano and McCoy Tyner, as well as leading his own ensembles. His newly reconfigured Crash Trio, with bassist Gerald Cannon and pianist Leo Genovese, will make its debut during this year’s Twin Cities Jazz Festival, collaborating with a special guest, New Orleans trumpet great Nicholas Payton.
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