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THE VOICE OF DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES
AUGUST 25, 2014 I VOL. 43 I #34
INSIDE THIS WEEK ASK THE
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2 Downtown News
DT
AROUND TOWN
Pantry Café Wants Your Waiting-in-Line Story
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veryone has a story about waiting in line late at night at the Original Pantry Café. At least, that’s what the team at the 90-yearold restaurant believes, and they’re challenging Angelenos to put their best narratives into print, in 500 words or less. Manager José Valdez said the story contest is owner and former Mayor Richard Riordan’s idea, and is intended as a fun way to interact with loyal customers. The winning essay will be bronzed and displayed at the restaurant just north of L.A. Live. Valdez’s own favorite story involves the time that workers repaired the roof during a rainstorm. “We never close, so, people were eating inside holding umbrellas, but people were still waiting to come in.” Submissions should be emailed to pantryessay@yahoo.com or sent to The Original Pantry “My Story,” 877 S. Figueroa St., Los Angeles, 90017. Deadline is 8:50 p.m. (yes, really, 8:50 p.m.) on Sept. 19. The winner will be announced on pantrycafe.com.
Wine Shop Finds A Bunker Hill Home
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overs of fine Malbecs and single-malt scotches will be pleased to hear that Gourmet Wine and Spirits, which shuttered its Downtown location at 626 Wilshire Blvd. earlier
TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS this year, is re-emerging at One California Plaza. The shop will sit next to Mendocino Farms at 300 S. Grand Ave. and will offer an array of wines, beers and spirits. In addition, Gourmet Wine and Spirits will have a small dining area and patio for those who want to enjoy a drink and snack on charcuterie, cheese and salads. The shop is awaiting a hearing to secure a conditional use permit, but the owners are aiming to open in the next six months, according to project representative Kate Bartolo.
August 25, 2014
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Where Should Bike Share Stations Go?
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he Metropolitan Transportation Authority is moving forward with a county-wide approach to bike sharing, and it’s asking the public for input on where bike share stations should be installed. An interactive map on Metro’s website allows people to “like” and comment on proposed station locations and suggest new ones. The map can be accessed at metro.net/ bikes and by clicking the “Help build bikeshare!” link on the right side of the page. The input is limited to the “Phase 1” bike share areas: Downtown, Pasadena, Santa Monica and Long Beach. The final locations will be selected by Metro and city staff and a bike share operator, which has not been selected. Implementation of the regional bike share plan is slated to begin in 2016.
City’s First EV Charging Station Installed Downtown
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owntown found itself on the forefront of the effort to combat gas guzzling last week,
Summer Concerts @ Pershing Square
August 9, 2014
when a parking spot became home to Los Angeles’ first public electric vehicle charging station. The city Department of Transportation and Bureau of Street Lighting installed the station on the northern curb of Fourth Street, just east of Main Street, in the Historic Core. A Facebook post on Mayor Eric Garcetti’s page, which shows him standing next to the charger, reads, “EV charging stations are just one way our departments are working together to use technology and adopt sustainable practices to keep our air clean and make our neighborhoods more livable.” A sign in front of the Fourth Street spot notes that cars may only park there if they are charging.
Concrete Barriers Coming to Flower Street
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he coming Regional Connector has already stymied traffic throughout Downtown, including on Second Street behind the Los Angeles Times building, which is closed for a month. Now Flower Street gets another batch of work, as crews install an electrical vault (much of the pre-tunnel boring work involves relocating utilities). To separate traffic from the work zone for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s $1.42 billion project, temporary “k-rails,” (think Continued on page 10
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EDITORIALS
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August 25, 2014
Urban Scrawl by Doug Davis
Let’s Have a Fun (And Responsible) Downtown SlipAnd-Slide
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he drought ravaging California is serious, with effects being felt across the Golden State. Food prices are rising, and people are being asked to make sacrifices on watering their lawns and other things they have taken for granted. We appreciate all of the above, and know that more needs to be done, especially if the rains don’t come this winter. However, we think the opposition to a proposed one-day slip-and-slide in Downtown Los Angeles is misplaced. While we applaud the environmentally minded sentiment, we think that if organizers work closely with the Department of Water and Power and consult with conservation experts, then there is a responsible way to bring this event to Downtown. Los Angeles Downtown News recently wrote about the event dubbed Slide the City. It is slated to arrive on Saturday, Sept. 27. About three blocks of Olive Street will be closed and a 1,000-foot long vinyl slide will be set up. Videos of events in other cities show hundreds of people having what looks to be a great time. A mix of young and old go swishing down the chute, many touting video cameras. Even with prices that start at $15 for a single ride, we can see large numbers of Downtown residents and those from outside the area flocking to the site to join in the fun. Ideally people will take a slide or two or five, then visit an area restaurant or bar and make a day of it, just enjoying the city. Shortly after news of Slide the City broke, opposition arose. An online petition was created, and to date nearly 10,000 people have signed it (as with all online petitions, take that figure with a grain of salt). In their words, “It is extremely irresponsible for any city in California to allow an event like one featuring a giant water slide to take place for the sake of money and fun while the state as a whole has been suffering from this drought.” A counter-petition to keep the event has also been organized (again, online), though it has less than 200 signatures. We are glad that so many people are cognizant of the dangers of the drought. That type of activism is vital, and we hope those individuals are working to conserve water in their own lives and communities. However, we think that if Slide the City organizers are transparent, responsible and cooperative, then an event could work. Already they have said Slide the City will consume about 15,000 to 20,000 gallons of water — that’s a lot, but it’s just a small fraction of the estimated 20 million gallons wasted in the recent pipe burst at UCLA. They have also said water would be treated and reused during the event, and then properly disposed. Slide the City organizers deserve the chance to bring off the event. We hope they will work with the DWP and conservation groups, and maybe allow them to set up booths at Slide the City. Perhaps some of the proceeds can go to conservation efforts.
Charlie Beck, the City Is Watching
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wo weeks ago, the Police Commission, the civilian body that oversees the LAPD, voted to give Chief Charlie Beck another five years at the helm of the 10,000-officer force. It was the right thing to do: Beck has been a capable, intelligent head of what is arguably the most important department in the city. He has generally been an effective leader, and has partnered well with officials including Mayor Eric Garcetti, who strongly backed giving him a second term. Still, the move generated some controversy. That’s because, in recent months, Beck endured a series of minor crises related to his leadership, his method of discipline, his willingness to engage meaningfully with the Police Commission and, most importantly, how the LAPD reports crimes. That makes this a particularly interesting time, and Beck is at what could prove to be a career-defining crossroads. If he chooses the right path, then he will learn from his recent stumbles, as he has in the past, and swallow a bit of pride and acknowledge his shortcomings. In an ideal world, this sets the table for him to work in new and innovative ways with not only Garcetti, but other city leaders and
Angelenos as a whole. Of course, Beck could choose the wrong path. In this instance, he would promise to do more, but instead would feel the sting of the criticism, believing that outsiders can never fully understand the complexities and challenges of policing Los Angeles, and would hunker down with supporters and give his civilian bosses little more than lip service. We don’t expect the latter to happen. Still, we do hope Beck steps up to increasing demands for additional cooperation and transparency. The department faces some major challenges, the most significant relating to crime statistics. The recent Los Angeles Times investigation into the LAPD’s misclassification of more than 1,000 assaults raises real questions about the veracity of crime numbers. Beck needs to help auditors discover the correct figures and to understand and explain why this occurred: Was it human error, or were officers responding to an expectation to do whatever it takes to make it look as if crime is falling? We learn a lot about our leaders when they are under pressure, and Beck today is facing some pressure. We hope he does things right and remembers that the city is watching.
The Alamo Drafthouse and What Comes Next
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ocal movie fans erupted in glee recently when Wayne Ratkovich, the owner of the Seventh Street shopping, office and hotel complex The Bloc, joined with the operators of the Alamo Drafthouse to announce that a nine-screen outpost of the beloved theater chain will open in Downtown. The plan calls for the movie house, which allows patrons to order food and alcohol from their seats, to begin screening by the end of 2015. The announcement means much more than just another place to watch first-run, independent and classic films. Taken with what has arrived in Downtown in the past year, and given the $180 million renovation occurring at The Bloc, news of the Alamo says a lot about the entertainment and retail future of Downtown Los Angeles. The Alamo is the latest in a line of national
businesses that even five years ago would not consider opening in Downtown Los Angeles, believing the demographics of the community were too risky to ensure profitability. Yet, as pioneers such as Ralphs (which opened a supermarket in 2007) raked in profits, those in the follow-the-leader retail world began to change their thinking. Already this year Downtown has seen the arrival of Zara and H&M at the shopping complex at Seventh and Figueroa streets. Late last year, Broadway welcomed both an Ace Hotel and an Urban Outfitters. While Zara, H&M and Urban Outfitters are familiar names, Alamo may fit better with a line of smaller businesses that are investing in Downtown. Broadway has also seen the opening of Oak, an upscale boutique with stores in New York, Paris and Tokyo. Anoth-
er new arrival is Acne, a clothing shop that originated in Sweden. While The Bloc shouldn’t be expected to adopt that type of independent streak, the choice of an Alamo Drafthouse as the project’s initial new tenant is exciting. In announcing the deal, Ratkovich said that The Bloc will offer “distinctive, curated experiences.” Although that could sound like PR-ese, the Alamo lease indicates that the Seventh Street destination could stand out from the cookie-cutter offerings seen at malls across the country. This much is clear: Downtown is now a viable retail and entertainment destination, and many of the companies that were once hesitant about the area believe they can make a profit here. It will be fun to see which businesses race into the community.
August 25, 2014
Downtown News 5
DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM
Getting Primal With Steve Ballmer The New Clippers Owner Shouts Away the Donald Sterling Era By Jon Regardie hortly after noon last Monday, a mildly sweating man in his late 50s was seen bouncing around Downtown Los Angeles and screaming like a maniac. Wearing khakis and a striped dress shirt, he proceeded to shout things like “BOOM!” “HARDCORE!” and “Awhgaaaaaaaaaaaa!” If you had seen this type of behavior under a freeway overpass while in your car, you probably would have said, “Oh, that poor man,” cracked your window and given him a dollar.
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THE REGARDIE REPORT That poor man happens to be Steve Ballmer, the new owner of the Los Angeles Clippers, and he just gave $2 billion to Donald Sterling. For long-suffering Clipper fans, of which I am one (and oh, how we suffered), the primal screams were wonderful. If the new owner’s effusive proclamations seem bizarre, then they’re far less bizarre than the Sterling-V. Stiviano-propelled shenanigans of the last four months. For that matter, they’re no stranger than much of what occurred during the 33-year train wreck that was the Sterling era. Ballmer’s bombasts sounded in a cordonedoff section of Staples Center, and it was clear even before he took the stage how weird things were: By 11:30 a.m. a line of red-shirted Clippers fans stretched across Chick Hearn Court and a block down Figueroa Street. This, by the way, was on a Monday in mid-August, a time when everyone is out of town and no one cares about
the NBA. The season won’t even start for more than two months. The size and noise of the crowd even surprised coach Doc Rivers, who in a press conference after what was dubbed the Ballmer Fan Fest said he thought that maybe a hundred people would show up. Instead, thousands packed the arena. Although eight players including Blake Griffin and Chris Paul were there in street clothes, the fans cheered like it was the playoffs. They whooped when TV cameras swept across the stands. They even roared when Clipper Darrell, a man whose chief claim to fame is cutting apart a blue suit and a red suit and sewing them into a single suit, and then morphing into the team’s most ardent fan, walked into the building. Then Ballmer arrived, and things really got wild. Bizarro World The crowd was cheering for Ballmer, but they were also celebrating the excising of Sterling. It was the best “Ding-Dong, the Wicked Witch Is Dead” moment outside the Munchkins. Before being exposed to the world in a recording posted on TMZ, Sterling was known to the Clipper faithful for a tight-fisted atmosphere that resulted in consistently fielding some of the crummiest teams in professional sports history. He was kind of a lousy person too, with racially charged lawsuits tied to his apartment complexes. He even engaged in some public heckling of his own players.
An enthusiastic Steve Ballmer was introduced to Los Angeles Clippers fans during a pep rally at Staples Center last week.
photo by Gary Leonard
Warriors sold for a then-record $450 million. This past May, a new record was set when the Milwaukee Bucks fetched $550 million. Ballmer nearly quadrupled that, shelling out $2 billion for a team that is an unquestioned second banana in its own market and has never even made it to the Western Conference Finals, much less competed for an NBA championship. Continued on page 28
While an international audience was appalled by the racist remarks Sterling made to Stiviano, and his ensuing trashing of Magic Johnson during an appearance on Anderson Cooper’s show, those who had been following the team for years shrugged and said, “Yeah, that’s the Donald Sterling we know.” Even the sales process fits the bizarro world that is Clipper-dom. In 2010 the Golden State
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August 25, 2014
Reworked Project to Bring 320 Apartments To Arts District Developer Hopes to Break Ground on $130 Million AMP Lofts Next Year
image courtesy of Shimoda Design Group
Bolour Associates and Crescenta Capital Partners plan to create a project with 320 units and 60,000 square feet of open space at 695 S. Santa Fe Ave.
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By Donna Evans large housing project in the Arts District has undergone a major redesign following a community outcry that the development would not fit with the aesthetics of the neighborhood. Bolour Associates and Crescenta Capital Partners purchased the land at 695. S. Santa Fe Ave. in 2013. In February, they presented designs for the AMP Lofts to the community. The uproar was instantaneous, and in response, the developers spent three months having architects from the Shimoda Design Group rework the project, said Dana Sayles, an AMP Lofts representative. The $130 million development would include 320 live/work apartments and 20,000 square feet of retail space. “We took a step back and said, ‘These comments are valid,’ and addressed the issues,” Sayles said at a recent meeting organized by members of the Historic Cultural Neighborhood Council. Sayles noted that a lack of open public space and “imposing” elevator towers were two points of contention. The new design utilizes a “J” shape and is flanked by a sevenstory building at the northern end of the property and another one fronting Seventh Street. The rest of the 311,000-square-foot project is primarily two- and three-story structures along Imperial Street and Santa Fe Avenue. Each of the retail spaces would have large windows and a front porch-type area. A plaza is slated for the corner of Seventh and Imperial streets and a 5,000-square-foot artisan workshop would be on Imperial Street. AMP Lofts would offer 390 parking spaces. The project would also hold a community garden and parklet, a public paseo and a dog run. There would be a total of 60,000 square feet of open space, about three times the amount offered in the previous proposal. Sayles described the project’s overall concept as a “live-work community.” Residences would range from 525 to more than 1,200 square feet and would employ an open-plan look, though one in which identifiable separated spaces could be used as bedrooms or work areas. Project manager Ryan Granito anticipates breaking ground between the end of 2015 and the middle of 2016. He predicts 20 months of construction with the project coming online by mid 2018. Bolour and Crescenta Capital bought the property from Scot Spiwak and David Seewack, who had planned to convert their American Moving Parts auto factory into lofts. Initial plans approved in 2009 called for 180 units. The project never got off the ground. The two-acre site currently holds 11 warehouse and industrial buildings, which are mostly used for filming. Project designer Joey Shimoda said the goal is to retain some of the signage and to repurpose as much brick as possible, but because the developers intend to create subterranean parking, it would be difficult to leave any of the buildings intact. donna@downtownnews.com
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August 25, 2014
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8 Downtown News
August 25, 2014
Outside Drugstore, Drug Sales
A scene from January when the LAPD deployed a mobile substation to Fifth Street and Broadway. Area stakeholders complain that when the police are not around, dealers sell Oxycontin and other prescription pills in front of the Rite Aid.
Dealing Proliferates, Again, in Front of Rite Aid At Fifth and Broadway By Donna Evans s the Historic Core welcomes more residents and visitors, and as attempts at beautifying and enlivening Broadway progress, one particular intersection continues to vex area stakeholders and the police: the corner of Fifth Street and Broadway. The sidewalk in front of the partially blackedout windows of Rite Aid, at 500 S. Broadway, has long attracted dealers illegally hawking Oxycontin and other prescription pills. Wouldbe sellers congregate near the entrance and brazenly offer the goods to passersby, including a representative from 14th District City Councilman José Huizar’s office who was walking to the Metro, said Sean Lewis, a senior lead officer with the Los Angeles Police Department. “They don’t care. They just want to sell pills,” Lewis said. “All we can do is stay highly visible.” According to Historic Downtown Los Angeles Business Improvement District documents, safety patrols responded to 198 calls for service at the intersection between January and June of this year. In addition to drug sales, there were complaints about vagrancy, panhandling, public drinking and assaults. The escalating problem prompted Huizar in April to write a letter to the city Zoning Administrator asking whether the sale of alcohol at the Rite Aid is appropriate. Although the store’s conditional use permit from 2006 allowed such sales, Huizar pointed out that alcohol can be a
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contributing factor to crime. Huizar spokesman Rick Coca said the Downtown community deserves a store that will be a good neighbor and contribute to the community. “As it stands, the store has turned a blind eye to its contributions to problems that are so obvious to everybody else,” Coca said last week. “Frankly, at this point, Rite Aid needs to step up and be part of the solution. They have said that they want to, but that remains to be seen. If not, we are prepared to take the measures necessary to ensure the city is not allowing problems to continue at that site unchecked.” The selling of prescription pills in front of the store is not the only problem. The store’s conditional use permit from 2006 dictated operating hours of 8 a.m.-10 p.m. The store had been staying open later than that, according to numerous Historic Core representatives. A sign posted in the Rite Aid’s window this summer stated that “sales of alcoholic beverages at this premise [sic] are prohibited after 10 p.m. effective July 6, 2014.” In an email to Los Angeles Downtown News, Rite Aid spokeswoman Ashley Flower said the store has taken steps to resolve issues and is now in compliance with all requirements. She would not comment about the closing time and alcohol sales. “Rite Aid has and will continue to actively collaborate with local authorities and community officials to improve the conditions outside of
photo by Evan Antes
our store at 500 South Broadway,” wrote Flower. She added that the store has added security measures, but declined to discuss them. Old Problem This is not the first time that drug sales at the intersection have riled area leaders. In January 2012, Downtown News wrote about how illegal pill sales there had prompted undercover LAPD operations, leading to 25 arrests. Although stakeholders said the situation improved when the LAPD directed more officers to the corner, problems persist today, in part because of a later re-allocation of police to other areas. In an effort to curb loitering at the intersection, and as part of Huizar’s Bringing Back Broadway initiative, the city in the spring relocated a bus stop from in front of Rite Aid to the northeast corner, closer to a Walgreens. The move has helped, said Blair Besten, executive director of the Historic Downtown Los Angeles BID. “We do not seem to have loitering of dealers in front of the Walgreens, just people waiting for the bus, and so far that store has been an
excellent community partner,” she said. LAPD Capt. John McMahon said police are working with Rite Aid management to address the problems, and that store security have been asked to enforce a no trespassing policy and to ask loiterers to leave. Central Division still deploys extra officers to the location from time to time, but not on a daily basis, he said. Lewis said the sales are not a “Rite Aid problem,” but rather a “narcotics problem.” People come Downtown with the intent to buy drugs in Skid Row. They walk east on Fifth Street, and dealers know this, he said. Greg Martin, vice president of Downtown Management, which owns the Jewelry Trades Building where Rite Aid is housed, defends the drugstore. Martin has worked Downtown since 1997 and remembers narcotics sales plaguing that corner long before Rite Aid opened in 2007. “To link this activity to Rite Aid, I don’t think is fair,” he said. “It’s illogical. A dress shop used to be there. Did dresses cause drug use?” donna@downtownnews.com
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Downtown News 9
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10 Downtown News
The Central City Crime Report
AROUND TOWN, 2 giant concrete barriers) will be set on the eastside curb lane between Fifth and Sixth streets for three weeks beginning Wednesday, Aug. 27. Pedestrians will be detoured around the sidewalk on the east side of the street from 7 a.m.-3:30 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturdays. The barriers will cause lane reductions on the east side of Flower between Fourth and Sixth streets. Tunnel boring on the project that will speed rail transit throughout the region will begin next year. Completion is estimated in 2019.
A Rundown on Downtown Incidents, Trends and Criminal Oddities By Donna Evans n the Central City Crime Report, we survey the recent week in public safety. All information is provided by the LAPD’s Central Division.
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Ugly Incident: A man stood under the window of another man’s apartment in the 400 block of East Fifth Street at 2:30 p.m. on Aug. 13 and repeatedly shouted epithets regarding his sexual orientation. The victim confronted the man and the suspect kicked him in the stomach, shoved him to the ground and broke his finger by slamming his hand into a metal gate. The District Attorney filed a charge of felony battery. Restroom Confrontation: A man approached another man in the lowerlevel parking restroom at L.A. Live, at 800 W. Olympic Blvd., at 10:30 p.m. on Aug. 12. The suspect demanded the man’s phone but fled after two bystanders walked into the bathroom. Security recognized the suspect from previous incidents. The suspect was charged with attempted robbery. Vacation Bummer: Sometime between 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. on Aug. 16, an unidentified person stole $800
in cash and a passport from a room at the Stay on Main, part of the Hotel Cecil, at 640 S. Main St. Apartment Burglary: On Aug. 11 or 12, unidentified suspects pried open the door to an apartment in the 1100 block of East Seventh Street. They stole a 50inch TV, a cooler, a bicycle and clothing.
Pete’s Café Gets Revamp With Josef Centeno
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Not-So-Neighborly: At 5 p.m. on Aug. 14, neighbors in the 500 block of Los Angeles Street began arguing. A physical fight ensued, during which one man suffered three broken ribs and cuts to his head and arms. He was treated at a nearby hospital and received eight stitches to his right hand.
t was time for a reboot of 12-year-old Pete’s Café and Bar. So, co-owner and namesake Pete McLaughlin, decided to ask neighboring chef and restaurateur Josef Centeno to lead the charge for menu and decor changes. The award-winning chef, who operates Bäco Mercat, Bar Amá and Orsa & Winston, all within a block of each other in the Old Bank District, is the new managing partner and chef at the eatery at 400 S. Main St. Pete’s will drop “café and bar” from its name, but will still offer beer, wine and spirits. It will close Monday, Aug. 25, and renovations are scheduled to last through October. New items on Centeno’s menu will include crab cakes, crab legs with remoulade, lobster Newburg, lemon meringue pie and orange baked Alaska. Pete’s will offer breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week.
Always Lock Your Bike: A man left a $300 Kabuto bike unlocked and leaning against a wall inside Pellicola Pizzeria, at 421 W. Eighth St., at 3 p.m. on Aug. 14. When he returned about 15 minutes later, it was gone. Always Lock Your Bike II: Two bikes left upside down yet unlocked outside Office Depot at Second and Los Angeles streets were, yep, swiped after 8 p.m. on Aug. 12. donna@downtownnews.com
Downtown’s Evoq Properties To Be Sold
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Grand Central Market Earns Honors From Bon Appétit
T
hree Downtown eating establishments received nominations for Bon Appétit magazine’s 2014 Best New Restaurants in America award, but only one made the final “Hot 10” list last week. Grand Central Market, despite technically not being a restaurant or even new, snagged the No. 10 spot (Orsa & Winston and sushi restaurant Q had made the initial cut this year), putting Downtown in the coveted list for three straight years. Restaurant Editor Andrew Knowlton praised the market’s diversity of old and new vendors and highlighted multiple eateries in the Historic Core complex, including Eggslut, Sticky Rice, Horse Thief BBQ and Ana Maria’s. The 97-year-old market has garnered extensive national press this year, including mentions in the New York Times and GQ magazine. It was the only L.A. eatery to make the list, though last year another Downtown establishment, Alma, won the top prize. This year Rose’s Luxury in Washington, D.C., was named Best New Restaurant.
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campus, announced last week that it has agreed to be acquired by an investment entity comprising affiliates of Atlas Capital Investors, Square Mile Capital Management and USAA Real Estate Company. The move follows an announcement in February that Evoq was looking to be sold or draw in new investors. The value of the acquisition is estimated at $357.4 million and the deal is expected to close in October. Evoq’s largest asset in Downtown is Alameda Square, which offers nearly 2 million square feet of space at 777 S. Alameda St. and has key tenants in American Apparel, Splendid and Ella Moss. Evoq has long been working on a transformation of the complex, and has been trying to bring in new tenants. The company owns 13 additional acres of property in the Central City.
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Limited space is available. Individual classes may be taken attended. For more information visit our website. The Small Business Development Centers are funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration, center host institutions, state and local funds, and corporate partners. Funding is not an endorsement of any product, opinion or service. All Federal and State funded programs are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis. Special arrangements for individuals with disability will be made if requested in advance.
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The EDD is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Request for Services, aids and/or alternate formats need to made prior to the event by calling 626-258-0365 (voice). TTY users, please call the California Relay Service at 711. Computer Generated - Labor Donated
August 25, 2014
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Downtown News 11
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Experts from various professions give their unique insight to the questions they hear most.
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12 Downtown News
Q A
Dr. Dimitris Constantinou 123 Refills 705 A S. Olive St. Los Angeles, CA 90014 213-488-9404 123refills.com
What is Creative Office Space?
Creative office space first started to pop up in Los Angeles in the very early ’90s. Instead of demolishing older warehouse properties to build conventional office buildings, a small group of real estate brokers in Santa Monica encouraged property owners and investors to think “outside the box.” Brick warehouse properties from the 1930s and 1940s were revitalized and given a new life. Concrete floors were polished and wooden floors sanded and restored. In order to differentiate a restored warehouse for office uses from a more conventional office building, the term “creative office space” was introduced. Today, companies recognize that their primary asset is really its people and the workplace has been shaped to increase performance and productivity. Creative office space was originally thought to be a passing trend. Today, millions of square feet in creative office space has been delivered to the SoCal market, with more to come.
Q A
123 Refills has been servicing the Downtown Los Angeles market for more than 10 years, and has earned the trust of many of its customers with low-priced, highquality ink and toner cartridges that save around 50%, and sometimes as much as 70% or more, as compared to buying brand name cartridges from an office supply megastore.
Inkjet vs. Laser: Which is the best choice for home or business use?
Inkjet printers are typically smaller and cheaper (in the short run, or for low print usage), so they are typically the printer of choice for home users or low frequency users. They are also excellent photo printers and can produce outstanding photo-quality results with vivid colors and high contrasts. For higher frequency use, such as for business, laser printers typically make more sense because they are faster and cheaper in the long run. Although the cost for a laser toner cartridge is usually higher than the cost for an inkjet cartridge, the page yield for toners is much higher. 123 Refills recently launched a new printer program called INKfinite, which guarantees a price of $4.99 per ink cartridge or $19.99 per toner cartridge for the life of the printer, which is a 60% to 80% savings compared to buying original brand ink or toner.
Q A
August 25, 2014
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Ian Strano
NAI Capital West L.A. 1640 S. Sepulveda Blvd., Ste. 500 Los Angeles, CA 90025 istrano@naicapital.com 310-806-6108
Do my past experiences have an effect on my present relationships with others?
Your past has a big influence on your current personal and business relationships. As a child, you developed two distinct areas of your mind, the subconscious and the conscious. Your conscious mind consists of skills that you use every day, such as logic, reasoning and decision-making. However, your subconscious mind is made up of your past experiences and associations (both good and bad). Now here’s the interesting point: Your conscious mind accounts for about 12% of your total mind power and your subconscious mind makes up the remaining 88%. Essentially, the majority of your behaviors are done subconsciously. Hypnotherapy helps to determine how your subconscious mind is directing your current conscious behaviors and can assist you in discovering which negative blocks are holding you back from having the successful business and personal relationships that you desire.
Ian Strano is an executive vice president with NAI Capital’s West L.A. office. He is a visionary and disciplined commercial real estate executive with more than 20 years experience conceiving, selling, leasing and executing significant real estate transactions. A pioneer in the creative office space market since 1988, Strano led several of the first, highly successful creative office space projects and industrial conversions throughout L.A. while working with world class architects such as Frank Gehry.
Lolita Korneagay, RN, CH
Lolita Korneagay is a master hypnotist and certified hypnotherapist practicing hypnotherapy in Downtown L.A. With a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, a Master’s degree in Business, and more than 500 hours of training in hypnotherapy at the Hypnosis Motivation Institute, she has excellent skills and credentials. Korneagay is also a member of the Hypnotherapist Union Local 472, the American Hypnosis Assoc. and the National Guild of Hypnotists.
Simply Suggestions Hypnotherapy 711 S. Olive St. Los Angeles, CA 90014 323-577-3852 SimplySuggestions.com
August 25, 2014
Downtown News 13
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EISNER PEDIATRIC & FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER
Q A Q A
Located in Downtown’s South Park district, EPFMC Women’s Health Center offers well-women exams, a high-risk clinic, and prenatal, maternity and postpartum care. In 2013, the 16-person certified, hospital-based Midwifery program surpassed national averages and was recognized by the Certified Nurse-Midwives Association. Our CNMs have a 90% successful vaginal delivery rate (70% nationwide); 9.1% of all births were C-section (30% nationwide); total NICU admissions were only 1%. In addition, EPFMC’s Women’s Health Center is in charge of the OB Call Panel at California Hospital Medical Center that ensures 24/7 coverage from certified midwives and OB/GYN. You and your baby are in good hands no matter when he or she decides to arrive!
Elizabeth Jenkins, M.P.H, C.N.M
Is it possible to have a vaginal birth after a Cesarean Section? Yes. It is possible. EPFMC’s midwives have a high success rate with vaginal births after Cesarean Sections (VBAC) of 77.5%. Unless there are medical complications or risk factors preventing it, women who want to have a Trial of Labor after a previous C-section (TOLAC) are encouraged to attempt VBAC. The hospital is equipped to handle any emergency situation that may arise or to switch to a C-section approach if it becomes clear that would be best for baby and mother.
Elizabeth Jenkins, M.P.H, C.N.M, is director of nurse-midwives. In addition to her own active clinical practice, Jenkins directs and oversees the WHC’s 19 nurse-midwives providing comprehensive midwifery services at both EPFMC and CHMC. Having led the nurse-midwifery program at CHMC for 15 years prior to joining EPFMC, her management responsibilities also include supplying administrative support for the 15 physicians staffing the EPFMC OB Panel. In addition to her training in nursing and public health (CSULA, UCLA), Jenkins is a certified OB/GYN nurse-practitioner and nurse-midwife (USC). She is an active member local chapter for the American College of Nurse-Midwives, and sat on the Peer Review and Quality Management Committee of ACNM. Active in her community, Jenkins serves as a member of her neighborhood LAFD Disaster Preparedness Emergency Response Team and her local Disaster Medical Assistance Team.
Tell me about more about your midwifery program?
Our midwives offer a program called Centering Pregnancy. This 10-week series of classes allows our mothers-to-be to build a relationship with their midwife and a group of women with similar due dates in a relaxed and nonrushed environment. During sessions, each woman gets a checkup from the midwife and discusses their individual progress while learning about prenatal nutrition, exercise strategies, stress relief methods, and receiving support and feedback from the other moms. In addition, low-risk pregnancies have the option of water birth.
EISNER PEDIATRIC & FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER
Eisner Pediatric & Family Medical Center 1530 South Olive St. LA, CA. 90015 213-747-5542 pedcenter.org
EISNER PEDIATRIC & FAMILY MEDICAL CENTER
WOMEN’S HEALTH
Q A
Why is Eisner Pediatric & Family Medical Center’s Women’s Health Center unique?
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Restaurants
14 Downtown News
Q A
Norm Langer Langer’s Delicatessen-Restaurant 704 S. Alvarado St. Los Angeles, CA 90057 213-483-8050 langersdeli.com
Downtown News readers voted Dr. Don Mungcal Downtown L.A.’s “Best Dentist” for the past four years. Mungcal opened Downtown Dental in 1992. Prior to launching his dental practice, Mungcal was a clinical instructor at USC Dental School. He’s a graduate of the Pacific Dental School in San Francisco and obtained his undergraduate education at UCLA.
How do I keep my gums and teeth healthy for life?
Proper dental treatment and early preventive care is key. In the past, keeping teeth for a lifetime was extremely challenging and often periodontal disease (gum disease) went undiagnosed. Now, through regular check-up visits dentists are able to stabilize gum disease by treating all of a patient’s dental needs in the early stages to ensure long-lasting, healthy teeth and gums. Still, gum disease affects about 80% of the adult population. At Downtown Dental we provide the highest standard of care. We utilize lasers, antimicrobial therapies and individualized bacterial testing to stop gum disease. Our team practices the most effective therapies available because some bacteria are resistant to cleaning. First, we identify the specific bacteria through a simple saliva test. Second, we use antibiotics specifically targeted for their destruction. That practice is why our patients keep their teeth for a lifetime.
Q A
Since 1963, Norm Langer has been working almost daily at his family deli, first with his father and mother, and now with his daughter and wife. From the world-famous #19 pastrami sandwich to other deli classics, Norm’s goal is 100% customer satisfaction.
How is Langer’s dealing with the dramatic increase in beef prices?
We’ve been working with our current pastrami, corned beef and roast beef supplier for more than 40 years, so we have a very close working relationship. We speak almost daily, tracking beef prices and in particular, pastrami availability. Because we purchase only the highest quality cuts, we have to stay ahead of the curve to deliver the “world’s best pastrami” to our customers. We neither reduce our serving sizes nor decrease our quality; instead, we find efficiencies throughout our operation, and rely on advertising and word of mouth to keep our deli at top capacity. With nearly 50 years of daily management, I can tell you it’s probably as difficult as it has ever been — but we are committed to only the highest quality. And our customers can taste the difference.
Q A
August 25, 2014
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Dr. Don Mungcal, DDS Downtown Dental 255 S. Grand Ave., Suite 204 Los Angeles, CA 90012 213-620-5777 downtowndentalla.com
What is the Downtown L.A. Auto Group?
The Downtown L.A. Auto Group consists of seven automotive dealerships in Downtown Los Angeles and one more in the city of Carson. They are owned and operated by The Shammas Group, which was founded by Nickolas and Jeanette Shammas. Nickolas began his car-selling career at Fairfax High where he refurbished and sold 22 used cars while still in school. After junior college, he opened a series of used car lots. The Downtown L.A. Auto Group includes Mercedes Benz, Porsche, Audi, Volkswagen, Nissan, Toyota, Scion and the iconic Felix Chevrolet, which was purchased nearly 60 years ago. Each dealership is a full service, state of the art facility that sells not only new vehicles but also has well over 1,000 pre-owned vehicles in stock. Each dealership also features manufacturer trained and certified repair technicians.
Darryl Holter
Darryl Holter is CEO of the Shammas Group, a group of family-owned businesses, including auto retailing, insurance, and commercial property with nearly a thousand employees. Holter completed his Ph.D. in History at the University of Wisconsin. In 1995, Holter left UCLA to assist his father-in-law, Nick Shammas, with his Downtown businesses. Holter organized property owners on Figueroa Street and was the Founding Chair of the Figueroa Corridor Business Improvement District in 1998.
Downtown LA Auto Group The Shammas Group 714 W. Olympic Blvd., #1142 Los Angeles, CA 90015 213-839-1111 dtlamotors.com
Real Estate
Expectant Fathers
August 25, 2014
Q A
Downtown News 15
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Congratulations, you have already taken the most important step, which is to be in the delivery room. Let the doctor, midwife, nurse, doula and others do their jobs in managing labor. You’re there to share the experience and encourage her labor. Tell her that you love her and that you’re proud of all the hard work that she has done during the months of pregnancy. Breathe with her during her contractions, and continue talking with her. Follow her directions and she will appreciate the support. Don’t make jokes about her appearance. Don’t eat a cheeseburger in front of her. Don’t call friends to ask what they’re doing and don’t ask how long before you can have sex again. When the baby’s head crowns, talk to her and share in the excitement! Or, if you have planned to, put your hands on the baby as the body comes out and help place the baby on her chest. Go ahead and cut the umbilical cord. You’re a dad!
Q A
Dr. Chang delivers babies at Good Samaritan Hospital. Chang received his medical degree at the David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine and completed his residency in obstetrics and gynecology at the Harbor-UCLA Medical Center in Torrance. Chang received his undergraduate degree at Harvard College in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
What should dads-to-be do when it’s time to deliver the baby?
Dr. Francis Chang
801 S. Flower St., Suite 204 Los Angeles, CA 90017 213-784-7717 I avidawomen.com
Bill Cooper
the LOFT expert! group
the loft expert! group
Small Business
Bill Cooper of The Loft Expert! Group has specialized in the Downtown L.A. residential market since 2002, providing full-service real estate support to buyers and sellers. The company has a thorough familiarity of the ins and outs of Downtown’s diverse communities coupled with an extensive knowledge of the shifting trends of the local, regional and national markets. We are ready to assist you with all your real estate needs.
What is a loft?
Traditionally, a loft was a very large, industrial space with high ceilings and voluminous space with an open floor plan. With the passing of the Adaptive Reuse Ordinance in 1999, Downtown Los Angeles started seeing these spaces, which were largely inhabited by artists, converted to apartments and condos. A true loft in my opinion needs to have some of the original characteristics still intact and will not have separate rooms. When a buyer asks me to find them a two-bedroom loft, we have to have a conversation about what they are really looking for. In today’s real estate market, a “loft” can also mean a studio apartment, while a “soft-loft” may have bedrooms. In any case, a loft can be an apartment, for renters, or part of a condo association for homeowners. Call me and I will help you find the best place.
Q A
1225 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90017 800-472-2737 I goodsam.org
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What does it take to start a small business?
Starting a business takes careful consideration and planning. That includes doing research to learn about your customers, competitors and industry, and meeting with a financial advisor to review projected cash flow. It takes emotional and financial preparation and a commitment to invest the time required to see your endeavor succeed. The stakes are also high: Only half of all new businesses survive five years or more, and about one-third survive 10 years or more, according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. Make sure you research the startup costs for your business and you have a financial plan that you’ve reviewed with your financial advisor to ensure that you have the funds you need for the first years of operation. And before you apply for credit, take time to understand what your business needs to do to be considered credit-ready and in the best position to secure financing.
The Loft Expert! Group Loftway Homes and Lofts 1020 S. Hope St. Los Angeles, CA 90015 213-598-7555 Theloftexpertgroup.com
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Luanna Lindsey is senior vice president and district manager for Wells Fargo’s L.A. Metro region. Lindsey oversees 190 financial professionals at 11 banking stores in the Downtown Los Angeles area.
Luanna Lindsey Wells Fargo Luanna Lindsey L.A. Metro Community Bank District Manager 213-253-3330 lindsell@wellsfargo.com
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16 Downtown News
August 25, 2014
Tracking Some Early Train History Upcoming Regional Connector Station Site Played a Key Role in L.A.’s Early Transportation Scene By Greg Fischer owntown has bid a fond and sad farewell to the once-upon-a-time site of Señor Fish, Weiland’s Brewery and the Spice Table. These restaurants at First and Alameda streets closed last year due to the upcoming construction of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s Regional Connector and the need to utilize those lots for a new Little Tokyo/Arts District station for the $1.42 billion project. What is overlooked is the corner’s rich history in the transportation story of Los Angeles. Also largely forgotten is the man who owned it and who played a key role in connecting various portions of a young city. Those familiar with the site will remember that the patio at Señor Fish had an odd curved wall. The curve conformed to the rail track installed by Southern Pacific Railroad. The track was designed to take trains from Alameda and First streets, where the Los Angeles and San Pedro Railroad tracks were, to Fourth and San Pedro streets, where another company, the Los Angeles and Independence Railroad, had its Downtown depot. When SPRR acquired both lines it didn’t need the Fourth and San Pedro depot any longer. Thus, in the late 1870s, all traffic going to and from the west side of the route was placed on a long, curved track that connected to the current Señor Fish building. The tracks then led to an SPRR station several blocks north of First Street. The lot where the restaurants were, and much of the area to the west toward San Pe-
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dro Street along First and Second streets, was owned by a far-sighted Welshman, James M. Davies, for whom the large tract was named. His great-nephew, Robert Davies Volk, was the owner of the lots at First and Alameda streets. This was final piece of the tract that the family still owned that his great-uncle subdivided in 1891. Volk hired me to research the property. Davies was a resident of Topeka, Kansas, who became taken with Los Angeles in the 1880s, and purchased large amounts of land in what is now Downtown. Davies lived in hotels for months at a time when he came to town and was a charter member of the California Club. He had made a great deal of money in the lumber business and, not long after his first visit to the city, entered into a partnership with J. H. Henderson to form the Davies/Henderson Lumber Company. The site at First and Alameda was acquired from R. F. Del Valle for $13,000 in 1882. Interestingly, Del Valle had purchased the property the day before from J. M. Griffith. The property was known as “Griffith’s Yard,” and it was well-sited for the lumber business as it sat at the intersection of two rail routes. The property made the delivery of lumber from the port at San Pedro to customers relatively easy. In an effort to enhance his real estate holdings, Davies became part of a syndicate, dubbed Depot Street Railway, that added a horse-drawn streetcar line on Second Street to connect the area with the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe/La Grande Depot on Santa Fe Avenue,
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where the One Santa Fe project in the Arts District is now under construction. A branch line went from Second Street and Central Avenue to a depot on Central Avenue between Fourth and Sixth streets. Today, that site holds the Los Angeles Cold Storage Company and the Young’s Market Company. Davies was also part of a syndicate that installed the Second Street Cable Railroad Company that connected Angelino Heights with Downtown. The grades on Crown Hill, west of Figueroa Street, and Bunker Hill were too steep for ordinary streetcar travel. The cable-car system provided a solution to crossing the former hill after a lot of earth was removed. Still, the ride was similar to what one might find on a
slow-speed roller coaster: up and down, up and down. The line was electrified after the early years of cable service. Davies became the undisputed king of transportation along both East and West Second Street. Ironically, an underground portion of Second Street will soon become the tunnel for the Regional Connector. After he retired, Davies built a home in the Ocean Park section of today’s Santa Monica. The house sat on a fine lot near the Pacific Ocean. Davies died in Topeka, Kansas, in October 1904, at the age of 78, while en route to the St. Louis World’s Fair. He was buried in Topeka. Greg Fischer is a Downtown resident and amateur historian.
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August 25, 2014
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COME SEE WHAT WE’RE DIGGING UP IN YOUR BACKYARD The world’s only ongoing Ice Age excavations are still happening at the La Brea Tar Pits. And this summer, we’re going through a RE-FRESH: • Re-opening of the Observation Pit after �� years • Re-activating Pit �� with real paleontologists doing live excavations • One-of-a-kind Fossil Lab with paleontologists re-vealing recently excavated Ice Age fossils
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18 Downtown News
August 25, 2014
The Spring Arcade Building’s Next Act How a 90-Year-Old Former Swap Meet Is Becoming a Hub for Foodies By Eddie Kim tep into the open-air corridor at the Spring Arcade Building around noon on a weekday, and your eyes might turn to the daylight filtering through the 90-year-old structure’s massive skylight-like glass ceiling. Or perhaps you’ll notice the grand Spanish Renaissance arches looming over the sidewalks outside. More likely to capture your attention, however, will be the line stretching out the door of Guisados, which opened on the Spring Street side of the building this month. The Downtown outpost of a lauded taco chain based in Boyle Heights, it has quickly attracted foodies hungry for the tender braised meats and salsas topping thick, golden corn tortillas made on the spot. The Guisados’ line is where Adrienne Gee and Nancy Corona, two area workers, stood last Wednesday, feeling the balmy breeze flowing from the street. “They’re embracing the community that’s here today,” Corona said. “People in the neighborhood need great places to eat.” Corona wasn’t referring just to Guisados, but to the entire Spring Arcade, where a growing number of independently operated eateries are filling storefronts. The former swap meet at 541 S. Spring St. that once catered to those looking for affordable electronics, apparel and gifts is entering a new phase as a dining hub. It’s akin to the infusion of new eateries at Grand Central Market, except the Spring Arcade has more space for seating and no history as a food-focused market. “This is turning into a culturally diverse complex with interesting cuisine — interesting and affordable,” Gee remarked. The first food spot to arrive was Crepes Sans Frontieres, a crepe shop with sweet and savory specialties that Ruth Hudin opened last August near the center of the structure that runs from Broadway to Spring Street. Eight months later, in April, came Gelateria Uli, which doles out gelato and sorbets crafted by Uli Nasibova. The latest addition is Guisados, led by the fatherson team of Armando De La Torre Sr. and Jr., which has been drawing lines every day since debuting on Aug. 11. Still to come are Green Grotto Juice Bar and Bierbeisl Imbiss, a casual outpost of chef Bernhard Mairinger’s Austrian bistro Bierbeisl, which
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won raves in Beverly Hills before shutting down for a still-pending move to West L.A. (Bierbeisl Imbiss will also have bakery, dubbed Falco). Royal Clayton’s, an Arts District pub that closed in 2010, will make its return inside the arcade. Also on the way is a restaurant that will fill about 2,000 square feet on the Broadway end of the building. According to Greg Martin, vice president of building owner Downtown Management, the revamp of the structure presents a unique opportunity in a quickly changing neighborhood. “It’s the only covered retail mall in the Historic Core,” Martin said. “It’s a very comfortable area to be sitting and it’s very conducive for dining, since you’re not dealing with crowded, and often smelly, sidewalks.” Still, it’s a work in progress: While there is a line at Guisados for lunch, the arcade is frequently devoid of foot traffic, in part because only a small handful of businesses are open. The momentum is building, however, as more entrepreneurs take a chance and more visitors arrive. “These people have a dream, and a vision to work with us here,” Martin said. “Brokers were telling us that nobody was interested.” Storied Past The Spring Arcade Building, then known as the Broadway Arcade, opened in 1924 and quickly became a thriving retail scene. It was marketed as a “City Within a City,” according to old stories from the Los Angeles Times. By the 1970s, however, the arcade had few tenants. That coincided with a general downturn in Downtown Los Angeles, as numerous businesses fled the Central City for points west, and many of the century-old structures in the Historic Core emptied. Things did change. By the 1980s and ’90s, Broadway had become a busy shopping hub, albeit one dominated by swap-meet style businesses. Still, the office and residential scenes lagged. In 1987, Australian real estate investor Joseph Hellen purchased the Spring Arcade Building with hopes of reactivating it. It didn’t happen quickly. Hellen began serious work on a turnaround in the years after Tom Gilmore kicked off the residential revolution in the Old Bank District. Hellen’s Downtown Management has now trans-
(2225)
photo by Gary Leonard
The firm Downtown Management is turning the Spring Arcade Building into a modern culinary destination, while paying careful attention to the 90-year-old building’s historic look and feel.
formed three old structures, the Spring Arcade, the Jewelry Trades and the Chester Williams buildings, into nearly 300 apartments. The historic look and feel in the Spring Arcade remains. That has helped attract tenants including Kieran Roberts, who hopes to open Green Grotto in October. In addition to juice, he will sell specialty teas, coffees and handmade snacks.
“I’m from Brooklyn, and that town is full of history,” Roberts said. “I went Downtown looking for a space and the Spring Arcade reminded me of something that really has a past. It grabbed me. The vibe and energy here feels great.” Crepes Sans Frontieres’ Hudin also fell in love with the atmosphere in the arcade, which she said reminds her of an old French train station.
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August 25, 2014
Downtown News 19
DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM
A FOODIE EVOLUTION
New tenants in the building include (l to r) Uli Nasibova of Gelateria Uli, Ruth Hudin of Crepes Sans Frontieres and Armado De La Torre Jr. of Guisados. Kieran Roberts hopes to open the Green Grotto Juice Bar in October.
photo by Gary Leonard
Though she initially struggled to attract a steady stream of customers, Hudin sees growth ahead. “I really like a challenge. So I wanted to make this place really special and make it work,” Hudin said. “I think there’s a lot of potential because Downtown is so cosmopolitan.” The migration of new eateries, however, was preceded by an exodus of the swap-meet style vendors that once filled the arcade. Paper signs on shuttered storefronts direct former customers to new addresses. Only a Spanish-language video shop and a store hawking handbags, luggage, shoes and clothes remain. The change in tenants at the Spring Arcade Building, of course, mirrors the change occurring across Downtown. In approximately 15 years the area has seen its residential base surge from about 18,000 people to more than 50,000. Dozens of defunct office buildings have been turned into housing, and more ground-up structures have been built. Guisados’ De La Torre Jr., who lives in the Historic Core, sees the change as a positive force for the future. “I live in the neighborhood, and what I see is more new peo-
ple,” he said. “Some call them hipsters, but it’s young couples, young families, who are rejuvenating Downtown. I’ve been driving through here since high school, and it really was a place to drive through. Now it’s becoming a star.” How long it will take that change to come to the arcade is unclear, though the new vendors hope that word of mouth and increased marketing will expedite things. As Gelateria Uli’s Nasibova notes, staking a claim in the arcade is a long-range strategy. “I knew I needed to be somewhere before it got big,” said Nasibova (whose husband and business partner is former Downtown News staff writer Ryan Vaillancourt). “I think the most recent wave in the arcade will help get it back to that state of glory it once had. That, to me, is very exciting and worth the wait.” Nasibova has done some research to find photos of the Broadway Arcade in its heyday. The pictures show huge crowds of men and women milling in the corridor, their faces alight with smiles as they visit stores, including the Arcade Flower Shop, which is where Gelateria Uli sits today. eddie@downtownnews.com
Three eateries have opened in the Spring Arcade, and more are to come. Here’s the rundown. OPEN Crepes Sans Frontieres: Ruth Hudin’s crepe shop touts both savory crepes, or “galettes,” with fillings including eggs, ham, cheeses and a variety of vegetables, as well as dessert crepes with fruits and sweet toppings. Gelateria Uli: Uli Nasibova churns out handmade gelatos and sorbets with flavors ranging from the traditional, such as pistachio and salted caramel, to the unexpected. Go ahead, try poblano. Guisados: This local taco mini-chain run by Armando De La Torre Sr. and Jr. offers rich, slow-cooked meat fillings on corn tortillas made fresh in-house. COMING Green Grotto Juice Bar: Kieran Roberts will feature coldpressed organic fruit and vegetable juices, as well as coffees, teas and snacks. Expect an opening in October. Royal Clayton’s: This British-themed watering hole, which called the Arts District home until 2010, will offer a menu full of pub classics (think fish and chips and shepherd’s pie) as well as sandwiches and salads. Bierbeisl Imbiss: Expect casual versions of Austrian dishes such as veal schnitzel and stew-like gulasch from chef Bernhard Mairinger. Falco: Connected to Bierbeisl Imbiss will be an Austrian bakery dubbed Falco. Expect takes on pastries such as sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake, and strudel. Unidentified Restaurant: A 2,000-square-foot restaurant will come to the Broadway side of the arcade. Downtown Management’s Greg Martin would not reveal an operator. —Eddie Kim
Live Nation is hosting a community meeting to review upcoming parking restrictions, lane and street closures, transit options and traffic detours. Event staff will be available to answer festival related questions. The festival will take place Saturday, August 30th and Sunday, August 31st in Downtown Los Angeles’ Grand Park. Gates will open at 12:00pm and the last act will close at 11:00pm both nights. For immediate questions please contact: Ginny Brideau at 424.271.4415
Meeting Information: Tuesday, August 26, 2014 6:30pm to 8:00pm Caltrans, Ground Floor Conference Room A 100 S. Main Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 To RSVP: http://mialax.nationbuilder.com/082614
TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS
photo by Eliot Lee Hazel
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August 25, 2014
CALENDAR
photo by Emily Shu
r
photo courtesy DJ Mustard
20 Downtown News
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Starts Aug 15 The Made in America Festival at Grand Park is expected to draw up to 30,000 people each day. Performers over the weekend include (clockwise from top) DJ Mustard, Weezer, Capital Cities, A Tribe Called Red and Metric.
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raised in Compton, the MC has garnered attenBy Dan Johnson tion with seven Grammy nominations for his ast weekend, Exposition Park and the most recent full-length effort good kid, m.A.A.D. Sports Arena were home to two days of city, a sensational performance with fellow MIA rock bands, perky indie acts and some Saturday headliners Imagine Dragons at this exciting electronic dance music as part of the year’s Grammy Awards, and a 2013 diss track, FYF Fest. This weekend, the Civic Center gets in “Control,” in which he called himself the “King on the act. of New York.” Beyond the bluster, what makes The inaugural Los Angeles installment of the Lamar appealing is a lyrical integrity that transBudweiser Made in America concert (it has taklates the human elements of social disparity in en place in Philadelphia before) unfolds Saturws /L.A.DowntownNe ok.com Facebo this city into powerful, lucid and narrative hipday-Sunday, Aug. 30-31. Spawned by New York rap mogul Jay-Z, and nurtured into life with the hop. participation Los Angeles Mayor LikeofDowntown NewsEriconGarcFacebook Iggy Azalea: If you have listened to the radio in etti, the & shows take over Grand ParkMovie and some Be Entered to Win Tickets! the past few months, the sonic stylings of Iggy surrounding streets, and up to 30,000 people Azalea have no doubt graced your eardrums. are expected each day. The deceptively blond Australian rapper spits The eclectic line-up of rock, hip-hop and inher rhymes with an up-tempo snarl that belies die promises to draw a diverse crowd. Here are time spent in the American South. Nowadays 10 performers you don’t want to miss. Azalea is caught somewhere between her bigSaturday gest artistic influence, Missy Elliott, and the pop Kendrick Lamar: When it comes to hip-hop, sensibility of her current collaborator, the prim Los Angeles is Kendrick Lamar’s city. Born and
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and proper Charlie XCX. When Azalea steps on stage at MIA we can promise that a good crosssection of adoring fans, both women and men, will be on hand. Metric: Since 1998, the quartet Metric has been kicking out unassuming synth-based rock that sounds a bit like Garbage done in pastel or Little Dragon on lithium. Either way, they’ve Startsbuilt Aug 22 a significant fan base with their slowly churning pop sensibility and colorful live show. In fact, this festival finds Metric at the end of a two-year road stint in support of their 2012 album Synthetica. The four should be in a pretty tight groove by this point. A Tribe Called Red: What Omar Souleyman did to modernize traditional music from Syria, A Tribe Called Red is doing with native songs from Canada. All three members of the electronica outfit claim membership in one of Canada’s First Nations (think Native Ameri-
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can tribes). With their song “Electric Pow Wow Drum,” A Tribe Called Red interposes modern hip-hop and electronica beats on traditional chants, rhythms and melodies. The band is potent and eminently danceable, with a unique cross-cultural sound. Capital Cities: If you count yourself among the myriad Angelenos who savor Sunday brunch, wish it were sunny 365 days a year or still tag Instagram photos with #100happydays long after the 100 days are over, Los Angeles’ own Capital Cities is the band for you. With the bearded, side-shave approach down pat, the bubbly hipster duo saturates their music with a warm sort of positivism that embraces major scales and inspirational lyrics to help you enjoy that vegan latte and free-range egg omelet. Sunday Kanye West: Every major festival deserves to be closed out by a bigger-than-life musician with a self-righteous messianic complex. The
August 25, 2014
Downtown News 21
DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM tion to widely known favorite. Better still, when Chance steps on stage you can expect a full-band accompaniment, Puck-ish commentary and a meandering odyssey through the mind of a psychedelic visionary.
enthusiastic Kanye West likes to consider himself a musician, an artist, a fashion luminary, a rock star, a god and a blowfish (we’re not kidding). This multifaceted identity plays out on stage as a mixture of mind-melting, glitch-ridden beats and an avalanche of braggadocio that often results in lengthy, sometimes nonsensical rants (witness his recent 20-minute tantrum on stage in London). With Kim Kardashian’s other half, you’re guaranteed to get something deeply polarizing, sensational and altogether unpredictable. Go with it. Weezer: If on Sunday afternoon you find yourself thinking, “What’s with these homies dissing my girl?” you’re either in the wrong part of the MIA crowd or you’ve got a mean case of Weezer on the brain. Since 1992, the Los Angeles quartet has been churning out a slick brand of wellarranged post-grunge alt rock. Lead singer Rivers Cuomo, who ironically does resemble Buddy Holly, and drummer Patrick Wilson have presided over a changing line-up and an increasingly pop-oriented sound over the years while continuing to produce music that is alternately laconic and meaty. Chance the Rapper: Given the violence in Chicago, it’s no surprise that the city has produced gun-touting street rappers in the vein of Chief Keef. What was surprising was the emergence last year of brazenly unorthodox Windy City native Chance the Rapper. Irreverent, self-deprecating, jazzy and lyrical, Chance’s Acid Rap mix tape went from underground sensa-
AT
Classixx: For the variety of electronica music coming out of Los Angeles, few acts embody the warm, grooving vibes of the city with more aplomb than Classixx. The production duo forsakes the intense four-on-the-floor mindset of their house colleagues in favor of low-slung, disco-influenced beats augmented with plush melodic synths. As much fun to listen to cruising down the freeway as at a pool party, Classixx is your best bet to enjoy the brilliant sunshine on Sunday afternoon. DJ Mustard: Behind a new generation of L.A. hip-hop is a gifted producer with a unique ear for beats that build off Southern-style trap music and Bay Area bangers. It’s a safe bet that at this very moment, DJ Mustard is somewhere in L.A. kicking out the latest track of his self-labeled “ratchet music,” a blend of minimal synth parts that slip into big bass choruses. The upand-coming quiet icon promises a set of his own tracks mixed with a best-of modern hip-hop track list. As we wrote about Kelela at the FYF Fest, see DJ Mustard here, then tell everyone you were one of the first people on the bandwagon. The Budweiser Made in America Festival is Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 30-31, at Grand Park. Tickets and information at madeinamericafest.com.
The Made in America Survival Guide What Downtowners Need to Know In Advance of This Weekend’s Mega-Concert By Donna Evans f you’re a ticket holder to the Budweiser Made in America Festival, you may be worrying about how to schedule your time to see Kanye West, Imagine Dragons and the dozens of other performers playing in Grand Park on Saturday-Sunday, Aug. 30-31. If you live or work in Downtown Los Angeles, you’ve got greater concerns, namely, how to survive not only a concert that will bring 30,000 people a day to the area, but also how to navigate all the pre- and post-show street closures. To help Downtown make it through the Jay Z spawned event, Los Angeles Downtown News has put together information related to street closures, who to call for problems, and more. Last-Minute Prep Are you worried about what to expect? You’re not alone. Thus, promoter Live Nation will hold a community meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 26, to review parking restrictions, street closures, transit options and more. Event staff will be on hand to answer questions. The meeting will take place at 6:30 p.m. in the ground-floor conference room A at Caltrans, at 100 S. Main St. Size Matters How big is this thing? Really big, and by that we mean larger than the 12-acre Grand Park. The entire concert area is bounded by Los Angeles
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Street on the east, Second Street on the south, Grand Avenue on the west and Temple Street on the north. In the Money Many have wondered if the taxpayers are getting jammed for the show. That remains to be seen, but Live Nation has agreed to pay the city $500,000 and to dole out $350,000 to the county for its services related to the event. Long Arm of the Law Big crowds can bring big messes. Fortunately, law enforcement will be out en masse. Los Angeles Police Department Capt. John McMahon said Sheriff’s Department deputies will patrol the festival grounds. On the surrounding streets, some 200 LAPD officers will be on hand. They’ll be watching for intoxicated people causing problems, and other issues. “They’ll be out there, enforcing the laws, making sure no one’s causing any problems in the Downtown community,” McMahon said. In the case of an emergency, call 911. If there’s a less-vital problem, call Central Division’s main line at (213) 486-1094. Those with an issue or complaint inside or outside the festival can call or text (424) 271-4415 for community liaison Ginny Brideau. Text the words “Metro” or “parking” to get info and links for both. Continued on page 22
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August 25, 2014
Festival, 21 Additionally, Live Nation spokeswoman Jacqueline Peterson said there will be ample event staff inside the show who can help. Getting Around Some road closures have already begun. Here is what to expect in upcoming days: Monday, Aug. 25-Wednesday, Aug. 27: As crews run power, set up tents and fences and build stages, Spring between Temple and First streets will be open to bus traffic only. Additionally, two lanes of First between Main and Spring will be closed. Thursday, Aug. 28: The load-in continues and a perimeter fence will be erected. Spring between Temple and First streets will be totally closed and two lanes of First between Main and Spring will be shuttered. Friday, Aug. 29: Spring between Temple and First will be totally closed. First between Main and Spring and Spring and Grand will be closed beginning at 7 p.m. Additionally, Hill, Broadway, Spring, Main and Olive between First and Second will close at 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 30-31: Gates open at noon, and the last acts finish by 11 p.m. Completely closed are: Main, Spring, Hill and Broadway between Temple and First; First between Main and Spring and Spring and Grand; Hill, Broadway, Spring, Main and Olive between First and Second; Main between First and Second; and First between Main and Los Angeles. There will be southbound traffic only on Grand between Temple and First. Monday, Sept. 1: The show is over, but the street closures aren’t. Still totally closed are: Main, Spring, Hill and Broadway between Temple and First; First between Main and Spring
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The Made in America Festival on Aug. 30-31 won’t be just in Grand Park, but on surrounding blocks as well. Numerous streets will be closed before and after the concert. Stars represent festival entrances, and the dotted lines are suggested routes from public transit stops.
image courtesy of Metro
and Spring and Grand; and Hill, Broadway, Spring, Main and Olive between First and Second. Again, there will be southbound traffic only on Grand between Temple and First. Tuesday, Sept. 2: The only full street closure is Spring between Temple and First. Wednesday, Sept. 3: Things are mostly back to normal. The traffic lanes closest to the curb will be closed on Main Street between Temple and First and Temple and Judge John Aiso Street. Thursday, Sept. 4: Every street and lane in Downtown is fully open. Well, except for all those shut down due to work on the Region-
Always Farm Fresh! Award Winninrgs Burge
al Connector.
Public Transit If you’re trying to escape the crowds on shows days, be warned: There are three entrances to the festival, and they’ll be full of people. The north gate is on Broadway at Temple, the south gate is on Second between Broadway and Hill Street, and the west gate is on First
at Grand Avenue. The closest Metro options are Pershing Square, Union Station and the Gold Line’s Arts District/Little Tokyo Station. Note: The Civic Center/Grand Park Metro station will not be open on Saturday or Sunday. No trains will stop there. We mean none! donna@downtownnews.com
Getting to the Shows
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f you live in Downtown Los Angeles and are attending the Made in America Festival, then you’re walking to the show. Right? If not, then please, leave the car at home and bike or call Uber. If you’re coming from outside Downtown, and are driving, then good luck. The place is going to be a circus on Saturday and Sunday. The best bet is mass transit and some foot power. The closest Metro options are Pershing Square, Union Station and the Gold Line’s Arts District/Little Tokyo station. The Civic Center/Grand Park Metro station, which is the closest one to the festival site, will not be open on Saturday or Sunday. Seriously. There are three entrance points to the festival. They are: North Gate, Broadway at Temple: It’s
about a half-mile walk from both Union Station and the Little Tokyo/Arts District station. South Gate, Second Street Between Broadway and Hill: From the Arts District/ Little Tokyo station, it is a .6-mile walk. From the Red or Purple lines at Pershing Square Station, walk north along Hill Street. West Gate, First Street at Grand Avenue: From Pershing Square, exit onto Hill and walk north toward Second Street. Metro authorities caution that for those who want to park and ride on the Expo Line, parking will be limited at the Culver City Station and La Cienega/Jefferson stations due to the USC football game on Saturday, Aug. 30. Officials suggest parking at the Expo/Crenshaw Station on Saturday, but noted that parking is not permitted at Expo/Crenshaw Station on Sunday. —Donna Evans
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EVENTS
T h e D o n'T M i s s L i s T Bye-Bye Butterflies, Free Music and a Show of Volcanic Proportions By Dan Johnson | calendar@downtownnews.com
SPONSORED LISTINGS
one
ll summer long you’ve wanted to experience the Butterfly Pavilion at the Natural History Museum. Yet, you dallied. Well, you better hurry up, because the special pavilion on the front lawn of the Exposition Park museum will close on Sept. 1. That means this is the last week to glimpse more than 30 species of winged beauties, among them the monarch, the malachite and California Dogface (it is too a type of butterfly). Bring the kids and learn all about caterpillars and the chrysalis process. The pavilion is open each day this week from 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. At 900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 763-3466 or nhm.org.
photo by Gary Leonard
MONDay, auGuST 25 Buck Henry at Aloud Mark Taper Auditorium, 630 W. Fifth St., 7:30 p.m.: The Library Foundation’s recent film-oriented program continues as writer and director Buck Henry discusses adapting classic literature into those talkies that are all the rage with kids these days.
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FRIDay, auGuST 29 Summer Nights in the Garden Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 7633466 or nhm.org. 5-8 p.m.: The majesty of an August evening in Los Angeles will be further augmented with music, cocktails, tours, food trucks and other hands-on activities for the stylish, informed and vaguely nature friendly. SaTuRDay, auGuST 30 Archibald’s Next Best Thing with Tony Hale Last Bookstore, 453 S. Spring St., (213) 488-0599 or lastbookstore.com. 11 a.m.: Tony Hale (who you may know as Buster from “Arrested Development”) will be debuting his latest picture book Archibald’s Next Best Thing.
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ROCK, POP & JAZZ
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it down Motown. We’re talking real Oldies now. Pacoima’s Ritchie Valens to be specific. His unprecedented mixture of Mexican folk music with the newfangled musical invention rock ’n roll catapulted the young Angeleno to a brief success that was tragically thwarted by a plane crash in Grant Township, Iowa. On Friday, Aug. 29, at 8 p.m., Pershing Square’s Friday Night Flicks wraps up a month of music movies with La Bamba, the 1987 biopic that stars Lou Diamond Phillips as Valens. The screening is free, but arrive early for a prime spot. At 532 S. Olive St., (213) 847-4970 or laparks.org/ pershingsquare.
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hile Grand Park prepares for the extremely loud Made in America festival this weekend, the Grammy Museum is getting ready for the quiet thunder of two other kinds of American music. On Wednesday, Aug. 27, at 8 p.m., heartland troubadour Joe Henry debuts his latest effort, Invisible Hour. Then on Thursday at 7 p.m., the KoAloha Ukulele Company screens The Haumana, a loving tribute to the four-stringed instrument that has helped define the music of the Hawaiian Islands and captured the attention of sailors and musicians worldwide. At 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org.
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n a strange moment of cross-medium synchronicity, the actor who played Buddy Holly in La Bamba will be performing in Downtown this week. Detroit’s Marshall Crenshaw is a well-known musician in his own right. Fellow Midwesterners the Bottle Rockets will be complementing Crenshaw with their style that sounds a bit like a love child of Bob Seger and Warren Zevon. It’s all going down at the Bootleg Theater on Tuesday, Aug. 26, at 8 p.m. Tickets are still available, but act quick before the myriad silent Detroit fanatics in Los Angeles swarm the box office. At 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org.
FiVe photo courtesy of the California Science Center
Blue Whale 123 Astronaut E. S. Onizuka St., (213) 620-0908 or bluewhalemusic.com. Aug. 26: Jeff Parker/Josh Johnson/Paul Bryan/Jamire Williams. Aug. 27: Trevor Anderies Group. Aug. 28-29: Beat Music: The Los Angeles Improvisations. Aug. 30: Ruslan Sirota Trio. Aug. 31: Alexander Noice Sextet. Bootleg Bar 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org. Aug. 25, 8:30 p.m.: Next week at this very hour when their residency is officially over, Maudlin Strangers will again be maudlin strangers to you. Aug. 26, 8 p.m.: Midwestern balladeer and fly-over state proponent Marshall Crenshaw hits the stage with the Bottle Rockets. Aug. 27, 8 p.m.: Not only is Decorations a potent blend of pop punk, synth pop and indie, they are also the straw that broke the metaphorical camel’s back and pushed us longingly into the world of doom metal. Aug. 28, 8 p.m.: Something tells us that somewhere in Jakubi’s band van, you’ll find a Jamiroqui cassette tape. Aug. 29, 9 p.m.: Work Drugs is a band named after a Kenny Powers quote. Aug. 31, 7 p.m.: Tonight if you play your synth pop extra emotional, maybe then Pitchfork will notice you, Linus Young. Club Nokia 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or clubnokia.com. Aug. 28, 8 p.m.: K-pop for the whole family with Baek Z Young. Escondite 410 Boyd St., (213) 626-1800 or theescondite.com. Aug. 25, 9 p.m.: Brian Walker and Monster Mondays, your typical early-week live music shenanigan facilitators. Aug. 26, 10 p.m.: We Are the West again haunt us with their on-the-nose band name. Continued on next page
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photo by Laurie Ballesteros ©2014 hhlo 808captureit
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CALENDAR LISTINGS
Friday Night Flicks by Pershing Square 532 S. Olive St., (213) 847-4970 or laparks.org/ pershingsquare Catch a free screening of La Bamba at Pershing Square on Friday, Aug. 29. Rounding out real rocker month is the biographical story of 17-year-old Ritchie Valens, a singer and guitar player from Pacoima whose rise to stardom in 1958 ended in a plane crash in February 1959. The movie will begin at 8 p.m., and well-behaved dogs are allowed. Parking can be found in the Pershing Square garage.
Downtown News 23
DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging
August 25, 2014
T
imes sure were wild back in 79 A.D. The Roman Coliseum was dedicated and those who visited brothels had a menu of options they could enjoy. Meanwhile, out in Pompeii, members of the Roman upper class lived in ignorance of the fact that Mount Vesuvius would soon swallow them all in history’s most famous volcanic eruption. Head on down to the California Science Center to glimpse that era with Pompeii: The Exhibition. Equal parts natural history and social study, the show focuses on the time capsule of civilization that was preserved when a pyroclastic flow swallowed the town. BTW, the exhibit includes a scene from a brothel of the time. That’s how we know the menu fact. The CSC is open every day from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. At 700 Exposition Park Dr., (323) 724-3623 or californiasciencecenter.org.
Send information and possible Don’t Miss List submissions to calendar@downtownnews.com.
24 Downtown News Continued from previous page Aug. 27, 10 p.m.: Miya Folick Boys make considerably more sense in person. Aug. 28, 10 p.m.: These Pilgrims are opening up for Zach Pohl. Aug. 29, 9 p.m.: Maybe if they tried copious amounts of the Escondite’s buffalo mushrooms, Skin & Bones would pack on some weight. Unless of course, the starved refugee aesthetic is the look they prefer. Aug. 30, 10 p.m.: Charlie Chan and the SOBs bring blues pleasures. Aug. 31, 10 p.m.: RT N the 44s will be on hand to tell you just where you can shove August.
LAST WEEKS ANSWERS
CROSSWORD
TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS Exchange LA 618 S. Spring St., (213) 627-8070 or exchangela.com. Aug. 29: Paul Van Dyk. Aug. 30: Thomas Gold. Grammy Museum 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org. Aug. 27, 8 p.m.: Long-time Americana purveyor Joe Henry previews his latest album. Aug. 28, 7 p.m.: A night of ukulele music and film with KoAloha Ukulele. Honeycut 819 S. Flower St., (213) 688-0888 or honeycutla.com. Aug. 25, 10 p.m.: TGIM. Aug. 27, 8 p.m.: Actual Disco. Aug. 28, 8 p.m.: Killer Cam. Aug. 29, 10 p.m.: Jack of All Tracks. Aug. 30, 8 p.m.: DJ Aaron Castle. Nokia Theatre 777 Chick Hearn Court, (213) 763-6030 or nokiatheatrelalive.com. Aug. 30, 8 p.m.: With the sound of Mazatlan in their horns and matching purple blazers on their backs, Banda MS promises to thrill you. Redwood Bar and Grill 316 W. Second St., (213) 652-4444 or theredwoodbar.com. Aug. 25: Philthy Heathens, Livin’ Alive and Blade Killer. Aug. 27: Nato Coles, Dead Bars and Varsity Drag. Aug. 28: Thursday Night Booty. Aug. 29: The Zoo, Honeytones, Innerwave, The Shagrats and Alpha MC! Aug. 30: He Who Cannot Be Named, Fangs on Fur, The Flytraps and Blank Expressions. Aug. 31: Gabe Hart.
August 25, 2014
Seven Grand 515 W. Seventh St., (213) 614-0737 or sevengrand.la. Aug. 26, 10 p.m.: That The Makers never tire of their weekly improvisational jazz gig at Seven Grand is a testament to their resilient constitution or a strong pharmacological agent. Staples Center 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7326 or staplescenter.com. Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m.: If you’re trying to stay abreast with the music lonely singles are crying to in London these days, Ed Sheeran will be offering a primer. The Smell 247 S. Main St. in the alley between Spring and Main or thesmell.org. Aug. 28: Teardrop Orchestra, Voice On Tape, Alone and Mechanical Beast. Aug. 29: Bobby T & The Slackers, Franky Flowers, Teeks and Floral Prints. Aug. 30: Moi, Hex Horizontal, Deaf and SoundFauna. Aug. 31: Alpha MC & Pigeon John, The Zoo Foundation, Linafornia and Joy Postell.
FILM Downtown Independent 251 S. Main St., (213) 617-1033 or downtownindependent.com. Aug. 25-28: Level 5 takes the viewer on a journey back to the Battle of Okinawa as a contemporary video game developer falls deeper and deeper into that tragic narrative. IMAX California Science Center, 700 State Drive, (213) 744-2019 or californiasciencecenter.org. Island of Lemurs: Madagascar 3D is an eye-popping journey full of, you guesses it, lemurs.
Forces of Nature promises a panoply of nature’s worst destruction. Flight of the Butterflies is visually stunning. Experience the gripping story full of hope, crushing disappointment and triumph in Hubble 3D. Pershing Square 532 S. Olive St., (213) 847-4970 or laparks.org/ pershingsquare. Aug. 29, 8 p.m.: If you insist on talking through tonight’s screening of La Bamba, Pershing Square staff will be forced to take whatever steps necessary, lest you perpetuate another “day the music died.” Regal Cinemas 1000 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 763-6070 or lalive.com/movies. Through Aug. 28: If I Stay (1:20, 4:20, 7:20 and 10:30 p.m.); Sin City: A Dame to Kill For (1:50, 4:50, 7:40 and 10:20 p.m.); Sin City: A Dame to Kill For 3D (11:50 a.m., 2:40, 5:20, 8:40 and 11:30 p.m.); When the Game Stands Tall (1:10, 4:10, 7:10 and 10 p.m.); The Expendables 3 (12:50, 3:50, 6:50 and 9:50 p.m.); The Giver (12:20, 3, 5:30, 8:20 and 11:10 p.m.); Let’s Be Cops (12:10, 1:40, 2:50, 4:30, 5:40, 7:50, 8:30, 10:40 and 11:20 p.m.); Into the Storm (11:40 a.m., 4:40 and 9:30 p.m.); Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1:30, 4, 6:30 and 9:10 p.m.); Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 3D (12, 2:30, 5, 7:30 and 9:40 p.m.); Guardians of the Galaxy (12:40, 3:40, 6:40 and 10:10 p.m.); Guardians of the Galaxy 3D (11:30 a.m., 2:20, 5:10, 8 and 10:50 p.m.); Lucy (3:30 and 9:20 p.m.); Dawn of the Planet of the Apes (12:30 and 6:20 p.m.).
THEATER, OPERA & DANCE Bob Baker’s Fiesta Bob Baker Marionette Theater, 1345 W. First St., (213) 2509995 or bobbakermarionettes.com.
August 25, 2014
Downtown News 25
DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM
Aug. 25-29, 10:30 a.m. and Aug. 30-31, 2:30 p.m.: Complete with cacti and sombrero-clad locals, the majesty of the American Southwest achieves its truest remembrance in this puppet spectacle. Sleepaway Camp Downtown Independent, 251 S. Main St., (213) 617-1033 or downtownindependent.com. Aug. 26, 9 p.m.: Every Tuesday this irreverent stand-up comedy cavalcade takes up residence at the Downtown Independent.
MORE LISTINGS Hundreds of listings of fun and interesting things to do in Downtown Los Angeles can also be found online at ladowntownnews.com/calendar: Rock, Pop & Jazz; Bars & Clubs; Farmers Markets; Events; Film; Sports; Art Spaces; Theater, Dance and Opera; Classical Music; Museums; and Tours.
2YOUR EVENT INFO
EASY WAYS TO SUBMIT
4 WEB: LADowntownNews.com/calendar 4 EMAIL: Calendar@DowntownNews.com
Email: Send a brief description, street address and public phone number. Submissions must be received 10 days prior to publication date to be considered for print.
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$9,499 2007 Nissan Altima 2.5S ....................... $10,999 Winter Frost, Only 80k miles. N141561-1/7N464819 2012 Nissan Sentra 2.0 .......................... $13,999 Certified, Black, 14K miles. N132228-1/CL746295 2008 Nissan Versa 1.8SL Hatchback ...... Winter Frost, Auto. N141721-1/8L355173
Plus tax & license. Security deposit waived. Models 4430, 5 to choose from, $.015 per mile over 12k miles per year. $999 drive off. Lessee responsible for maintenance, excess wear and tear. OAC on approved above average credit.
$22,690 2012 MINI Cooper Countryman ........... $25,675 Silver, AWD, 4dr., T140395-1/WM14231 2013 Toyota Avalon XLE ........................ $25,999 Black, Carfax, 1 owner, 25k Miles, TU0829R/041243 2014 Honda CR-V .................................... Silver, 5dr. LX, Auto,10k miles T142206-1/700464
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S I N C E 19 7 2 Los Angeles Downtown News 1264 W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 phone: 213-481-1448 • fax: 213-250-4617 web: DowntownNews.com • email: realpeople@downtownnews.com facebook: L.A. Downtown News
twitter: DowntownNews
Editor & PublishEr: Sue Laris GENErAl MANAGEr: Dawn Eastin
* per month for 36 mos
$
$18,416 $22,379 Black/Black, Auto, Alloy Wheels, Nav. Syst. V141391-1/503151 2012 VW Jetta Sportwagen ................ $23,879 White/Black, Auto, 4L Turbo Dsl. ZV2904/604902 CARSON NISSAN
$29,559 $36,571 Certified, Prem. Pkg. 1, Nav. Syst. 7527C/551951 1264 W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 2012 Mercedes E350 .............................. phone: 213-481-1448 • fax: 213-250-4617 $37,871 Certified, Only 17k Miles, Nav. Syst.DowntownNews.com 7548C/605976 web: email: realpeople@downtownnews.com AUDI OFfacebook: DOWNTOWN L.A.
Art dirEctor: Brian Allison AssistANt Art dirEctor: Yumi Kanegawa ProductioN ANd GrAPhics: Alexis Rawlins
AccouNtiNG: Ashley Schmidt 888-845-2267
1505 E. 223RD ST., CARSON • CARSONNISSAN.COM clAssiFiEd AdvErtisiNG MANAGEr: Catherine Holloway
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AccouNt ExEcutivEs: Yoji Cole, Steve Epstein, Catherine Holloway sAlEs AssistANt: Claudia Hernandez
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Art dirEctor: Brian Allison AssistANt Art dirEctor: Yumi Kanegawa ProductioN ANd GrAPhics: Alexis Rawlins PhotoGrAPhEr: Gary Leonard AccouNtiNG: Ashley Schmidt clAssiFiEd AdvErtisiNG MANAGEr: Catherine Holloway AccouNt ExEcutivEs: Yoji Cole, Steve Epstein, Catherine Holloway sAlEs AssistANt: Claudia Hernandez circulAtioN: Danielle Salmon distributioN MANAGEr: Salvador Ingles distributioN AssistANts: Lorenzo Castillo, Gustavo Bonilla ©2014 Civic Center News, Inc. Los Angeles Downtown News is a trademark of Civic Center News Inc. All rights reserved. The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read newspaper for Downtown Los Angeles and is distributed every Monday throughout the offices and residences of Downtown Los Angeles.
One copy per person.
http://issuu.com/ladtn Follow Us on ISSUU
DT News on your mobile device, with more than 5 years of past issues!
per month for 36 mos
Plus tax, 36 Month closed end lease on approved credit through Mercedes-Benz FinanEditor & PublishEr: Sue amount Laris due at *$3,349 due at signing. Based on all with MSRP of $17,715 (including destination charges), cial Services. $2,499 CAP reduction, $795 acquisition fee. Excludes title, taxes, registraGENErAl MANAGEr: Dawn Eastin signing excludes title, tax, options and dealer fees. Monthly payments total $3,564. Acquisition fee of $625 tion, license fees, insurance, dealer prep and additional options No security deposit reexcluded in amount due at signing. Purchase option at lease end for $9,388.95. At lease end lessees responExEcutivE Jonends Regardie quired. 25¢ per mile in excess of 30,000 miles. Offer good on all with MSRP $33,925. sible for $0.20/mile over 30,000 miles and excessive wear and tear. VIBEditor: 230880. Offer 8/31/14. stAFF writErs: Donna Evans, Eddie Kim 2013 Mercedes C250 ............................. 2014 VW Beetle Coupe .......................... coNtributiNG Editor: Kathryn Maese Certified, Nav. Syst., Must See! 7545C/784490 Yellow/Black, 2.5L, 2D Hatchback, Auto, 4k Miles. SL2690/602673 coNtributiNG writErs: Jeff Favre, Greg Fischer, S I N C E 19 7 2 2012 Mercedes E350 .............................. 2013 VW CC Sport Plus Sedan Kristin ............. Friedrich, Kylie Jane Wakefield Los Angeles Downtown News
PhotoGrAPhEr: Gary Leonard
ExEcutivE Editor: Jon Regardie stAFF writErs: Donna Evans, Eddie Kim coNtributiNG Editor: Kathryn Maese coNtributiNG writErs: Jeff Favre, Greg Fischer, Kristin Friedrich, Kylie Jane Wakefield
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©2014 Civic Center News, Inc. Los Angeles Downtown News is a trademark of Civic Center News Inc. All rights reserved. The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read newspaper for Downtown Los Angeles and is distributed every Monday throughout the offices and residences of Downtown Los Angeles. One copy per person.
315
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distributioN AssistANts: Lorenzo Castillo, Gustavo Bonilla Plus tax 42 month closed end lease on approved credit. $2199 down, plus first month payTwo at this price. $299 plus tax per month for 36 months on approved above avment, tax, title, licensing fees and $695 bank acquisition fee.$0 Sec. Dep. Must qualify for the erage credit. MSRP $32,545. $2999 down plus tax, license, and fees. $0 security Audi Loyalty or Audi Acquisition Rebate of $1,000. $0.25 per miles over 10,000 miles/year. 1 deposit. 12k miles per year, 0.15 per mile in excess. Model #41114. Serials 636951 at this offer EN022577. / 636098.
2011 Audi A4 2.0T Prem. Front Trak ... $8,888 Meteor Gray/Black, Sports Pkg., Blue Tooth, A150039D1-1/045947 $23,995 2006 Mazda 3s .................................... Cadillac SRX SUV .......................... $10,888 2010 $26,703 GT Stock, Leather, Alloy Wheels, Rear Spoiler. CU1530P/516945 Bronze, Low Miles! Reduced! ZA10815-1/608818 Editor & PublishEr: Sue Laris 2011 Nissan Armada SV ..................... 2013 Audi Q5 2.0T SUV ......................... GENErAl MANAGEr: Dawn Eastin $24,888 $36,995 Nissan Certified, Third Row Seat, Alum. Wheels. CU1547P/611626 Certified, Silver/Black, ZA10808/064686 ExEcutivE Editor: Jon Regardie FELIXstAFF CHEVROLET PORSCHE OF DOWNTOWN L.A. writErs: Donna Evans, Eddie Kim 2006 Nissan Altima 2.5 S ...................... Carfax, Special Edition, 1-Owner. C141653-1/397338
888-511-6735 coNtributiNG Editor: Kathryn Maese 3300 S. FIGUEROAcoNtributiNG ST. • FELIXCHEVROLET.COM writErs: Jeff Favre, Greg Fischer,
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PhotoGrAPhEr: Gary Leonard Plus tax 36-month closed end lease on approved credit. Total Customer Cash Down is $4,669, $9,995 CAP REDUCTION facebook: Ashley which includes the first payment plus the firstAccouNtiNG: payment tax. Includes $2,240Schmidt Cash Incentive 10k miles per year, residual $40,971, 1 at this price. Down payment excludes tax, dmv fees, $895 Bank L.A. Downtown Acquisition fee, first payment and document fees. Rates based on approvedNews Tier 1 credit through Porsche plus $750 USAA discount. $0 security deposit. $0.25/ mile over 10,000 miles/yr. Based on clAssiFiEd Holloway Financial Services. P14673/VIN#ELA77393 MSRP of $34,995. Everything subject to Mfg. changes. 1 at thisAdvErtisiNG price EU142543. MANAGEr: Catherine twitter: AccouNt ExEcutivEs: Yoji Cole, Steve Epstein, 2013 Chevy Spark LT ............................. 2014 Cayenne S ...................................... DowntownNews Catherine Holloway Silver/Black, 4L, 23k miles. F14376-1/507949 Jet Blk/Blk, CPO, Nav, 21” Whls, Prem. Pkg plus, 6kmiles (ELA55177) sAlEs AssistANt: Claudia Hernandez
$14,995 $78,894 2012 Ford Fiesta SEL Sedan .................. 2013 Panamera GTS ............................ $102,895 Green/Black, Auto, MP3, 6 speakers, 36k miles. UC1607r/181415 $15,995 CPO, Bose, Pk Assist Camera, Full Lthr, 17kmiles (DL075593) circulAtioN: Danielle Salmon 2012 Nissan Maxima S ........................... 2014 Carrera S ...................................... distributioN MANAGEr: Salvador Ingles Black/Black, 42k miles, Prem.Sound, Moonroof. F15329-1/804463 $24,888 CPO, PDK, Chrono, Prem.Pkg plus, Park Assist, 4kmiles (ES120603) $106,897 distributioN AssistANts: Lorenzo Castillo, Gustavo Bonilla
©2014 Civic Center News, Inc. Los Angeles Downtown News is a trademark of Civic Center News Inc. All rights reserved. The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read newspaper for Downtown Los Angeles and is distributed every Monday throughout the offices and residences of Downtown Los Angeles.
One copy per person.
TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS
26 Downtown News
August 25, 2014
Map © 2014 Cartifact
DWP
DOG PARK
SPRING STREET PARK
THE BLOC
FUTURE KOREAN AIR WILSHIRE GRAND
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
L.A. LIVE DOG PARK
METRO CHARTER SCHOOL
August 25, 2014
DT
CLASSIFIEDS REAL ESTATE RESIDENTIAL
AUTOS & RECREATIONAL
To place a classified ad in the Downtown News please call 213-481-1448, or go to DowntownNews.com Deadline classified display and line ads are Thursday at 12pm. FORfor RENT All submissions are subject to federal and California fair housing laws, which make it illegal to indicate in any advertisement any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, familial status, source of income or physical or mental disability. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.
SERVICES donation pick-up
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EMPLOYMENT
ST. VINCENT de Paul Thrift Store. For free pickup by truck of your donations 1-800-974-3571. 210 North Avenue 21, Los Angeles 25% off w/ this ad. Expires 10-1-14. home improvement RUBEN GARCIA: Experienced painter of interiors and exteriors. Does very good work. Reasonable prices. Call for a quote 323 - 622- 9583. housekeepinG Green Loft/Apt cleaning starting @ $65. Insured and bonded, background checks on maids. No surprise charges or supplies fees. Book a deep cleaning as low as $99 and get $10 off your 1st order with code “IGET10” (310) 734-9892
3093 Knob Drive Mt. Washington
U.S. GOVT JOBS NOW HIRING
Brand new. Panoramic views
Civil Service / Postal Clerks No Experience. Job Security. $20-75 an hour and Benefits CALL NOw! (855) 631-0850
rene@vaughanbenz.com
ITEMS FOR SALE
2BR/ 2.5 Ba 2000sq. ft. Rene: 213.304.7004 $3,650/mo.
loft/unfurnished
old Bank District The original Live/Work Lofts
clothinG/jeWelry
CiTizeN Watches
from $1,295 Cafes, Bars, Shops, Galleries, Parking adjacent. Pets no charge
33 pieces, golden metallic band, no batteries
Call 213.253.4777 LAloft.com
(213) 305-1346
$990
apartments/unfurnished
furniture
SENIOR APARTMENTS 62 + Studio $881 1 Bedroom $937. Balcony, Full Kitchen, A/C, Clubhouse, BBQ, Resource room, Laundry, SEC 8 O.K. Visit GSL SAN LUCAS.com 213623-2010.
Set of 4 dining room chairs; country style for $30.00. Call 213-612-0952.
fictitious Business name Fictitious Business name statement File no. 2014195310 The following person is doing business as: 1) THE STANDARD, DOWNTOWN 550 South Flower Street at 6th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90071 2)THE STANDARD, DOWNTOWN LA, 23 East 4th Street, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10003, are hereby registered by the following registrant: STANDARD DOWNTOWN LESSEE, LLC, 23 East 4th Street 5th Floor, New York, NY 10003. This business is conducted by a limited liability company. Registrant began to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on September 1,2013. This statement was filed with DEAN C. LOGAN, Los Angeles County Clerk on July 18, 2014. NOTICE—This fictitious name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name state-
For SALe Albuquerque, New Mexico Children’s Performing Group
Sunshine Generation
seven acres los Ranchos
Singing, dancing, performing and fun! For boys & girls ages 3 and up!
• Beautiful view of Sandia mountains • Great for large homes • Alfafa field with irrigation
SunshineGenerationLA.com
909-861-4433
ment must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et. seq. Business and Professions Code). Pub. 08/11, 08/18, 08/25, and 09/01/2014. Fictitious Business name statement File no. 2014201608 The following person is doing business as: New Energy Design Group, 1250 Long Beach Ave, Loft #115, Los Angeles, CA 90021, are hereby registered by the following registrant: Michael Ulmer, 1250 Long Beach Ave, Loft #115, Los Angeles, CA 90021. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrant has not begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed. This statement was filed with DEAN C. LOGAN, Los Angeles
County Clerk on July 25, 2014. NOTICE—This fictitious name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et. seq. Business and Professions Code). Pub. 08/18, 08/25, 09/01, 09/08/2014. Fictitious Business name statement File no. 2014210304 The following person is doing business as: LA Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast, 545 S. San Pedro Street, Los Angeles, CA 90013, are hereby registered by the following registrant: Union Rescue Mission, 545 S. San Pedro Street, Los Angeles, CA 90013. This business is conducted by a
• 5 minutes from shopping • 9 miles from downtown Albuquerque • 8817 4th Street, NW
For appointment call alex sanchez 505.898.3934 or cell 505.362.6488 One of the few remaining property of this size in the North Valley
corporation. Registrant has not begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. This statement was filed with DEAN C. LOGAN, Los Angeles County Clerk on AUGUST 01, 2014. NOTICE—This fictitious name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name state-
ment must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et. seq. Business and Professions Code). Pub. 08/18, 08/25, 09/01, and 09/08/2014
the LOFT expert!
TM
Downtown since 2002
Bill Cooper 213.598.7555 TheLoftExpertGroup.com
Bill Cooper 213.598.7555
TheLoftExpertGroup.com BRE #01309009
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Voted BEST Downtown Residential Real Estate Agent!
LEGAL
General
homes/unfurnished
Downtown News 27
DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM
Monthly from $700+ utilities paid. (213) 612-0348
Furnished single unit with kitchenette, bathroom. Excellent location. Downtown LA.
Fully furnished with TV, telephone, microwave, refrigerator. Full bathroom. Excellent location. Downtown LA. Weekly maid service.
Monthly from $795 utilities paid. (213) 627-1151
Thomas E. Rounds
is your teen experiencing:
Attorney at Law
• School problems? • Conflict at home or with friends?
825 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 109, Santa Monica, CA 90401
adolescent support group now forming ages 13-17 low fee
(424) 234-6381
trounds4esq@gmail.com lawofficeofthomaserounds.com.
call marney stofflet, lcsW
(323) 662-9797
4344 fountain ave. (at sunset), suite a los angeles, ca 90029
5B#268274
Do you have something to sell?
Ad Copy: _________________________________________
Ad Prices
________________________________________________
(Marketplace and Automotive Categories ONLY) • Items under $300 • Items $301 to $500 • Items $501 to $1200 • Items $1201 to $2000 • Items $2001+…
Name: Address: City Phone: Cash $ Credit card #: Exp. Date:
FREE! $11.50 $14.00 $16.50 $19.00
12 words, 2 weeks 15 words 15 words 15 words 15 words
All ads run for 2 weeks. Ads may be renewed after two weeks for 50% off the original price of the ad.
With a circulation of State Check $
Zip Credit Card $
47,000,
our classifieds get results!
________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________
Restrictions: Offer good on private party ads only. Ads must be pre-paid by cash, check or credit card. Certain classifications excluded. Deadline: Thursday at noon for next issue.
TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS
28 Downtown News
August 25, 2014
Clippers, 5
Downtown, it’s not just big business anymore! It’s our business to make you comfortable... at home, downtown. Corporate and long term residency Call Now Fo is accommodated in high style at the Towers Apartments. Contemporary singles, studio, one r bedroom and two bedroom apartment homes provide fortunate residents with a courteous full service lobby attendant, heated pool, spa, complete fitness center, sauna and recreation room Move-In Spec with kitchen. Beautiful views extend from the Towers’ lofty homes in the sky. Mountain vistas and ial slender skyscrapers provide an incredible back drop to complement your decor. Far below are a host of businesses s ready to support your pampered downtown lifestyle. With spectacular cultural events nearby, even the most demanding tastes are satisfied. Downtown, it’s not just big business anymore. Visit the Towers Apartments today. photo by Gary Leonard
Grand Tower
255 South Grand Avenue Leasing Information 213 229 9777 Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Concierge ~ Pool / Spa / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Gas BBQ Grills ~ Recreation Room
Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove, Microwave & Dishwasher (most units) ~ Central Air Conditioning & Heating ~ Balconies (most units)
On-site: ~ Dry Cleaners / Dental Office / Restaurants
Promenade Towers
123 South Figueroa Street Leasing Information 213 617 3777 Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Pool / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Covered Parking
Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove & Dishwasher ~ Central Air & Heating ~ Solariums and/or Balconies
On-Site: ~ Convenience Store / Coffee House / Yogurt Shop / Beauty Salon
museum Tower
225 South Olive Street Leasing Information 213 626 1500 Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Concierge ~ Pool / Spa / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Gas BBQ Grills ~ Recreation Room
Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove, Microwave & Dish washer (most units) ~ Central Air & Heating ~ Balconies (most units)
8 7 7 - 2 65 - 714 6
TOWERS T H E
A PA RT M E N T S
www.TowersApartmentsLA.com MAID SERVICE • FURNITURE • HOUSEWARES • CABLE • UTILITIES • PARKING
RESIDENCES: SINGLES • STUDIO • ONE BEDROOM • TWO BEDROOM
A huge crowd of red-shirted fans turned out to welcome Ballmer, with people waiting in a long line on a hot Monday afternoon.
Of course, Ballmer’s got money like Los Angeles has parched lawns, and with the former Microsoft CEO’s fortune estimated north of $20 billion, his dropping $2 billion on a new favorite toy — especially when only 30 such toys exist — makes an odd kind of sense. The price may seem crazy to financial analysts and the average fan, but when you’re that rich you’re never crazy — just eccentric. Paging Eminem If you’ve ever watched a YouTube video of Ballmer firing up a crowd of Microsoft workers, then you know that he gets excited. Still, there’s nothing like seeing him live. It’s the difference between catching a Bruce Springsteen concert on TV, which is nice, and in an energetic arena, which is WOW! Ballmer didn’t even need to be onstage to showcase what might be called his “passion.” He was introduced by Rivers, but rather than walk from backstage like 99.999% of the population would do, he stampeded through Staples, a cross between Hulk Hogan and a bull slamming the streets of Pamplona. He threw high fives to fans he didn’t know. He screamed and screamed and screamed again. He did it all, by the way, while Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” blasted, and while I’ve never met the Detroit rapper, I’d bet a year’s worth of milk money that he didn’t write the theme song for 8 Mile with a billionaire’s entrance music in mind. When Ballmer finally climbed the steps to the stage, several Clippers pulled out their phones. Yes, professional athletes who have been recorded their entire lives, whose basketball exploits have been shared all over the web, were eagerly taking pictures of their new boss. Finally he reached the microphone and started by, you guessed it, screaming. It quickly became apparent that, when facing a crowd, Ballmer has two volumes: Heavens-to-BetsyThis-Guy-Is-Loud, and Deafening. More often than not the dial was set to the latter. Will Ballmer be successful atop the Clippers? That remains to be seen. More than one wealthy figure has taken a sports franchise south, frequently by thinking he knows more about the game than he really does and getting too involved in player personnel or strategic decisions. These days that is also known as the Jim Buss Effect. Ballmer sounded the right notes. He said his job is to support the coach and the players. He also said that despite seeing more than 100 basketball games last year (most of them with his sons playing), he understands very little about basketball strategy. That would indicate he won’t meddle. He also said his ownership would be defined by being optimistic and a willingness to take risks. “Optimism and boldness will be force multipliers for the Los Angeles Clippers,” he said, and it’s probably the first time in history that sentence has been said aloud. Then, gloriously caught in the moment, Ballmer did what Ballmer does. “We’re going to be HARDCORE!” he screamed. “HARDCORE!!” “HARDCORE!!!” Finally, thankfully, the Donald Sterling era is over. regardie@downtownnews.com