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Los Angeles Times
2 days ago
- General
- Los Angeles Times
Relishing a grandmother's love, one meal at a time
My most vivid food memories involve overcooked spaghetti in a wooden bowl, and my grandmother Phyllis. For decades, my grandmother's wooden bowls sat stacked in the cabinet next to the refrigerator in her old, two-story home in Gardena. They followed her to her retirement home in Palm Desert, which she lovingly referred to as 'toe-tag city.' She was part of the volunteer wellness-check committee that called other residents to make sure they were still breathing. The bowls were lopsided and smooth, burnished and misshapen by countless years of scraping Lipton onion dip and spaghetti off the sides. When she died on July 17 at the age of 91, the first memories that came to mind involved spaghetti in those wooden bowls, and all the meals and laughs we shared together. They were not the expensive cherry wood, olive wood or acacia you might find at Crate & Barrel. The wood was thin, pressed and woven — the chicken nugget equivalent of a piece of dinnerware. My grandmother bought them at a restaurant supply store in Los Angeles almost 40 years ago. An internet search for 'cheap wooden bowls' produces images of something similar. During my childhood summers, I spent most of my days lounging on a fraying towel on a patch of lumpy grass in my grandparents' backyard, eating out of one of those wooden bowls. My too-long hair was always damp from the aboveground pool where my late grandfather, Warner, taught me how to swim. 'You're my favorite,' he would say. He said that to all the grandkids. Phyllis and Warner were Jewish but never kept kosher. She used to boast that her grandfather opened the first kosher butcher shop on Pico Boulevard, though she could never remember the name or the year. There was always bacon in the house. She used a plastic tray to microwave the bacon until it was crisp and perfect. And her most famous dishes involved both meat and cheese in those wooden bowls. The sound and sensation of my bent fork against the wood is palpable even now. My grandmother's spaghetti was always cooked two minutes past al dente. I squeezed the noodles between my tongue and front teeth and counted how many I could eat without chewing. The sensation was simply exquisite. The meat sauce, slightly salty and grainy, was always seasoned with Lawry's spaghetti mix from a paper pouch. The ground beef was pulverized until it became one with the canned crushed tomatoes. My grandmother slid the emerald green cylinder of Parmesan across the table and never questioned the Everest-sized mountain I managed to shake into the bowl. I used to study the grooves and nicks in the bowls and wondered what would happen if I accidentally ate wood. Is there a tiny tree growing in my stomach right now? Armed with a head full of dreams, a slender grasp on reality and the high of a new Hello Kitty backpack for the fast-approaching fall, I happily slurped my noodles, unburdened by the anxiety of the 1/8th-life crisis that so often crept into my thoughts and threatened to ruin a good meal. But never this meal. The bowls were a promise, that at least for the time it took to eat whatever filled them, things would be just fine. I have my grandmother to thank for this, and for so many of my fondest memories, food quirks and preferences. It's thanks to Phyllis Harris that I prefer the Lipton onion soup mix dip to anything whipped up in a restaurant kitchen. And that I know how to host everything from a small gathering to a proper rager. She's the reason my friends ask me to make latkes for every Hanukkah party. Her holiday gatherings were legendary, with a full spread of golden latkes, brisket, bagels, lox and white fish. And there was always a bowl of pitted black olives. My cousins and I used to slide an olive onto each finger and pop them into our mouths while we ran around the house. My grandmother was the master of something called the schmutz platter. I can't recall which one of us came up with the name, but I suspect it was me. It was more of a table-wide spread than an actual platter, comprising various deli cold cuts, leaves of romaine lettuce, dill pickle chips, black olives, sliced cheese (always havarti and usually provolone), a wooden bowl of tuna salad, another of potato salad, sliced rye bread and challah, ramekins of mayonnaise and mustard. While grandma made her own tuna salad and potato salad, both studded with bits of hardboiled egg, the coleslaw was only ever from Kentucky Fried Chicken. 'KFC or bust,' she would say. And she meant it. I brought countless acquaintances out to the desert to visit, and each time, a schmutz platter would be waiting on the dining room table when we arrived. But even when it was just me, the platter was there. After living in Los Angeles for most of her life, grandma was used to the depth and breadth of cuisines in the city. Her move to Palm Desert 20 years ago was accompanied by a bit of culinary shock, when she realized there were no Asian markets nearby and the local dim sum restaurant wasn't exactly local or actual dim sum. Each trip to visit came with a request to bring her a loaf of double-baked rye bread from Langer's Deli and an order or two of siu mai. The desert being the desert, we used to brave the 30-second walk to her car in the 110-degree heat to drive to the Rite Aid down the street for ice cream. She used to call the pharmacy waiting area an 'ice cream cafe,' and we sat in the blood pressure chairs while we licked our cones. I was only ever able to convince her to order the Chocolate Malted Krunch (the best flavor) once. Grandma only had eyes for rainbow sherbet. While we sat in the ice cream cafe, she asked about work and my love life, but never in a prying way. She listened intently and never judged, though I gave her plenty to question. By the time I made it to the bottom of my cone, I felt like there was at least one person in the world who understood me. As much as grandma loved to host company, with her weekly card games and mahjong, she lived for a night out. She had her hair done regularly into a golden coiffed pouf. Her nails were always painted. I don't think I ever saw her leave the house, let alone her bedroom, without lipstick. There were dresses for the grocery store, dresses for the mall, lunch with the girls and dinner out. We often staged mini fashion shows to compare outfits. Sullivan's, a lively chain steakhouse on the second floor of the El Paseo shopping center in Palm Desert, was our favorite place. She went so often that she had a regular table. She always enjoyed a glass of red wine. I sipped a martini. And we both ordered the crispy Shanghai calamari. This was the height of luxury and culinary achievement for grandma. A plate of battered and fried squid from Point Judith, R.I., coated in a sweet chili glaze with cherry peppers, scallions and sesame seeds. The rounds of squid were always tender, dredged in a light, crisp, shaggy coating. The orange, chile-flecked sauce was sticky and sweet, similar to the condiment typically served with Thai barbecue chicken. I can see her licking the sauce from her fingers as I type this. One of the last great meals we shared was at Alice B., Mary Sue Milliken and Susan Feniger's restaurant at the Living Out LGBTQ+ community in Palm Springs. Feniger was there that evening and graciously took us on a small tour of the property before steering us toward an order of executive chef Lance Velasquez's excellent biscuits. My grandmother, who was a fan of Feniger's for years, was elated at meeting the chef. If the TV was on at grandma's house, it was tuned to the Food Network. We marveled at the texture of the biscuits, equal parts crunch and fluff. We finished every drop of the honey and butter. Grandma and I shared a love of fried chicken and discussed the restaurant's chicken cutlet for much of the drive home. She grew teary-eyed as we finished dinner. Grandma was someone who treated each meal, whether it was out or a schmutz platter at home, like it was something to be savored and appreciated, grateful for every moment we got to spend together. I know that with time, this pang in my chest will dull, but I'm confident that these memories will stay vivid. I can summon the smell of her kitchen. The warmth of her embrace. The sound of her laughter and the way it filled a room. I can taste her spaghetti and feel the grooves of the wooden bowls. Thank you, Grandma, for showing me just how delicious this life can be.
Business Recorder
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Weekly SPI inflation up 4.07%
ISLAMABAD: The Sensitive Price Index-based inflation increased by 4.07 percent for the week ended July 24, 2025 compared to 0.38 per cent in the previous week. The statistics issued by Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) showed a major increase in the prices of gas charges for Q1 29.85 per cent, tomatoes 22.93 per cent, electricity charges for Q1 21.46 per cent, eggs 3.96per cent, garlic 1.39 per cent, cigarettes 0.51 per cent, beef 0.46 per cent, rice basmati broken 0.45 per cent, powdered milk 0.29 per cent, energy saver 0.23 per cent and fresh milk by 0.16 per cent. On the other hand, decrease is observed in the prices of chicken7.95 per cent, sugar4.25 per cent, onions 3.05 per cent, bananas 2.81per cent, LPG2.09 per cent, potatoes 1.82 per cent, wheat flour 1.19 per cent, moong 0.43 per cent and pulse gram 0.32 per cent. SPI-based inflation slows down During the week, out of 51 items, prices of 14 items (27.45 per cent) increased, 12 items (23.53 per cent) decreased and 25 items (49.02 per cent) remained stable. While major increase is observed in the prices of ladies sandal 55.62 per cent, gas charges for Q1 29.85 per cent, sugar 21.89 per cent, moong 16.42 per cent, beef 14.08 per cent, vegetable ghee 2.5kg 12.46 per cent vegetable ghee 1kg 12.17 per cent, gur 11.30 per cent, eggs10.70 per cent, firewood 10.52 per cent, cooked daal 9.47 per cent, and printed lawn 7.32 per cent. Major decrease is observed in the prices of onions 49.13 per cent, tomatoes 30.2 per cent, electricity charges for Q1 24.23 per cent, garlic 23.64 per cent, wheat flour 23.21 per cent, maash 20.76 per cent, tea Lipton 17.93per cent, potatoes 15.11 per cent, masoor 8.86 per cent and petrol 1.24per cent. The SPI for consumption groups up to Rs17,732 with an increase of 3.98 per cent recorded at 317.34 points. The SPI for consumption group of Rs17,732 to 22,888 with an increase of 5.26 per cent was recorded at 317.42 points against previous week's calculation of 301.55, the SPI for the income group Rs22,889-29,517 with an increase of 4.44 per cent was recorded at 340.39 points against previous week's recording of 325.92 points, the SPI for the income group Rs29,518-44,175 with an increase of 1.02 per cent was recorded at 328.38 points against previous week's reading of 319.26 points and SPI for the monthly income group above Rs44,175 registered an increase of 3.03 per cent was recorded at 328.92 points against 319.26 points of the previous week calculation. The combined increase for all expenditure groups recorded at 329.09 points compared to 316.23 points of previous week registering an increase of 4.07 per cent. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
4 days ago
- Business
- Business Recorder
Weekly SPI inflation up 4.07pc
ISLAMABAD: The Sensitive Price Index-based inflation increased by 4.07 percent for the current week ended July 24, 2025 compared to 0.38 per cent in the previous week. The statistics issued by Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) showed a major increase in the prices of gas charges for Q1 29.85 per cent, tomatoes 22.93 per cent, electricity charges for Q1 21.46 per cent, eggs 3.96per cent, garlic 1.39 per cent, cigarettes 0.51 per cent, beef 0.46 per cent, rice basmati broken 0.45 per cent, powdered milk 0.29 per cent, energy saver 0.23 per cent and fresh milk by 0.16 per cent. On the other hand, decrease is observed in the prices of chicken7.95 per cent, sugar4.25 per cent, onions 3.05 per cent, bananas 2.81per cent, LPG2.09 per cent, potatoes 1.82 per cent, wheat flour 1.19 per cent, moong 0.43 per cent and pulse gram 0.32 per cent. SPI-based inflation slows down During the week, out of 51 items, prices of 14 items (27.45 per cent) increased, 12 items (23.53 per cent) decreased and 25 items (49.02 per cent) remained stable. While major increase is observed in the prices of ladies sandal 55.62 per cent, gas charges for Q1 29.85 per cent, sugar 21.89 per cent, moong 16.42 per cent, beef 14.08 per cent, vegetable ghee 2.5kg 12.46 per cent vegetable ghee 1kg 12.17 per cent, gur 11.30 per cent, eggs10.70 per cent, firewood 10.52 per cent, cooked daal 9.47 per cent, and printed lawn 7.32 per cent. Major decrease is observed in the prices of onions 49.13 per cent, tomatoes 30.2 per cent, electricity charges for Q1 24.23 per cent, garlic 23.64 per cent, wheat flour 23.21 per cent, maash 20.76 per cent, tea Lipton 17.93per cent, potatoes 15.11 per cent, masoor 8.86 per cent and petrol 1.24per cent. The SPI for consumption groups up to Rs17,732 with an increase of 3.98 per cent recorded at 317.34 points. The SPI for consumption group of Rs17,732 to 22,888 with an increase of 5.26 per cent was recorded at 317.42 points against previous week's calculation of 301.55, the SPI for the income group Rs22,889-29,517 with an increase of 4.44 per cent was recorded at 340.39 points against previous week's recording of 325.92 points, the SPI for the income group Rs29,518-44,175 with an increase of 1.02 per cent was recorded at 328.38 points against previous week's reading of 319.26 points and SPI for the monthly income group above Rs44,175 registered an increase of 3.03 per cent was recorded at 328.92 points against 319.26 points of the previous week calculation. The combined increase for all expenditure groups recorded at 329.09 points compared to 316.23 points of previous week registering an increase of 4.07 per cent. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Yahoo
7 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Lipton Doubles Down on Tea Innovation With First-Ever Concentrates and New Fruit & Herbal Line
Reimagined Tea Formats & Flavors Meet the Modern Lifestyle at Major Retailers This Summer HOBOKEN, N.J., July 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This summer, Lipton is reimagining the tea experience with two exciting new product lines designed to meet evolving consumer tastes, lifestyles, and wellness routines. Kicking off the season, Lipton introduces its all-new Tea Concentrates, an innovative way to enjoy iced tea, launching exclusively at Walmart stores this July. Designed with convenience in mind, these concentrates deliver bold flavor in every pour, making them ideal for delicious hydration, mealtime pairings, or spontaneous get-togethers. Available in three fresh-brewed varieties: Black Tea with Lemon, Green Tea with Lemonade, and Southern Sweet Black Tea - Lipton Tea Concentrates blend high-quality tea with vibrant flavor. Sold in 32 oz ready-to-mix containers, these fresh-brewed iced tea concentrates make enjoying tea quick, easy, and delicious. Just shake, pour, and mix with your favorite liquid like water, seltzer, lemonade or juice. "Lipton Tea Concentrates offer a new take on the fresh brewed iced tea experience - without the need to prep and with the freedom to customize every sip," said Alisa Geller, Lipton Brand Director. "We're excited to introduce this innovation with Walmart and provide busy consumers a convenient, high-quality option that caters to a variety of personal tastes and preferences." Launching nationally this August, Lipton Fruit & Herbal Teas are crafted to bring comfort and calm to your daily routine. Bursting with rich, vibrant flavor, the new line is perfect for those seeking craveable and comforting beverage experiences and ideal for easing into the season ahead. With four feel-good flavors including Golden Chamomile, Peach Paradise, Smooth Mint, and Lemon Ginger Refresh, each variety is uniquely positioned to target moments of comfort and relaxation - morning, noon or night. The launch solidifies Lipton's presence as a brand that can be enjoyed at any time of the day with both caffeinated and new, naturally caffeine-free varieties. "Many consumers are open to herbal teas but turned off by overly earthy or medicinal notes. That's why Lipton's Fruit & Herbal innovation puts flavor first - with bright, balanced blends that are refreshing hot or iced, crafted for repeat enjoyment without the intensity of traditional herbals," said Alex White, Research and Innovation Director - Americas, LIPTON Teas and Infusions. With bold flavor profiles and a vibrant, modern aesthetic, Lipton Fruit & Herbal teas are designed to connect with younger consumers who are forming lasting tea rituals and seeking brands that align with their evolving tastes and wellness lifestyles. The new lineup delivers premium flavor at an everyday-friendly price. Whether you're crafting your perfect iced tea or reaching for a soothing nighttime cup, Lipton's 2025 innovations ensure there's a tea moment for everyone - anytime, anywhere. About Lipton Since 1890, nature has been our tea factory. Every cup of Lipton tea is grown using rain, wind and sunshine to give you our signature rich taste and aroma. What's more, we believe that every cup of our tea should not only help brighten your day but help brighten the future of all tea farmers and their families and of course, our planet. With a commitment to sustainability and excellence, Lipton remains America's Favorite Tea brand, delivering a variety of blends for every tea lover. About LIPTON Teas and Infusions LIPTON Teas and Infusions is the world's largest tea business, with world-class brands that are household names such as Lipton, Pukka, TAZO, T2 and PG Tips. With production sites in four continents and a presence in more than 100 countries, LIPTON Teas and Infusions' products are enjoyed by hundreds of millions of consumers around the world each day. As an independent company since July 2022, LIPTON Teas and Infusions is united in one purpose: creating value for all with every sip, from plant to cup. PRESS CONTACTS Jamie Warner jamie.w@ Lauren Champilauren@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE LIPTON Teas and Infusions
Yahoo
23-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz and Alston & Bird top H1 2025 financial services M&A legal advisory list
Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz and Alston & Bird have emerged as the top mergers and acquisitions (M&A) legal advisers in the financial services sector for the first half of 2025, according to GlobalData. An analysis of the UK-based data and analytics company's deals database reveals that Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz advised on deals worth $54.3bn, securing the top position in terms of value. Alston & Bird, on the other hand, led in deal volume, advising on a total of 24 transactions during the six-month period. GlobalData lead analyst Aurojyoti Bose said: 'Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz was the top adviser by value in H1 2024 and managed to retain its leadership position by this metric in H1 2025 as well. In fact, it was the only adviser to surpass the $50bn mark in total deal value during H1 2025. Due to its involvement in big-ticket deals in H1 2025, Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz registered more than 25% year-on-year growth in the total value of deals advised by it. During H1 2025, Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz advised on three mega deals valued at more than $10bn. 'Meanwhile, Alston & Bird saw more than 30% growth in the total number of deals advised by it during H1 2025 compared to H1 2024. And its ranking by volume also improved from the second position in H1 2024 to the top position in H1 2025.' Latham & Watkins secured the second position in terms of deal value by advising on transactions worth $41bn. They were followed by Cravath, Swaine & Moore with $37.8bn, Kirkland & Ellis with $28bn, and Paul Hastings with $24.3bn in deals. In terms of deal volume, Kirkland & Ellis ranked second with 19 deals. White & Case followed with 17 deals, while both Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz and Debevoise & Plimpton advised on 15 deals each. GlobalData's league tables are based on the real-time tracking of thousands of company websites, advisory firm websites and other reliable sources available on the secondary domain. A dedicated team of analysts monitors all these sources to gather in-depth details for each deal, including adviser names. To ensure further robustness to the data, the company also seeks submissions of deals from leading advisers. "Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz and Alston & Bird top H1 2025 financial services M&A legal advisory list " was originally created and published by Electronic Payments International, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
