A home away from home

Listening to music, playing games, sharing snacks – they are all very normal ways to hang out and unwind.

But sometimes those activities mean so much more, even becoming an “emotional lifeline,” as one local woman found out. The realization led Layan Amkieh to launch Mazikaa Enterprises, which aims to “celebrate and preserve SWANA heritage by fostering connection and authentic self-expression.”

Through Mazikaa, Amkieh wants to give the SWANA (Southwest Asian and North African) community places to gather where they can find like minds and enjoy authentic music and more from their cultures.

What started as a one-off event two years ago for Amkieh, a Syrian who came to San Diego to attend college, has now branched out into multiple monthly events with a character all their own. Our contributor Roberto Camacho has more.

Turning to the June primary. Yes, it’s creeping closer, so you might find yourself in need of a little help making a decision in the crowded governor’s race. Gov. Gavin Newsom or Rep. Nancy Pelosi, two of our state’s most prominent politicians, surely want to offer some guidance, right? After all, President Trump made an endorsement on the GOP side. But, whoops, maybe not. Our partner, CalMatters, explains why.

Thoughts? Opinions? Share them with us at news@timesofsandiego.com.