LOS ANGELES
DOWNTOWN
NEWS January 3, 2011
Volume 40, Number 1
7
Get ready for a year of housing, supermarkets and building upgrades.
W W W. D O W N T O W N N E W S . C O M
rendering courtesy Bureau of Engineering
photo by Gary Leonard
4
Barbecue King closes, an Art Walk leader arrives, and other happenings Around Town.
The 62 People, Events and Developments That Will Shape and Shake Downtown in 2011
PICK THE
Pick football games, win prizes.
10
2
Faces, Places, Plans and Projects
INSIDE
PROS
Stay Healthy in 2011
Central City power players.
photo by Gary Leonard
8
Kings and Lakers get in the game.
A packed cultural calendar.
12
photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging
9
B
y all accounts, 2010 was a busy year. Now that it’s in the rearview mirror, get ready for… another busy year in Downtown Los Angeles. The community’s business, development and cultural calendars are already packed. In the next 12 months, Downtown will see a new head of the Catholic Archdiocese and watch how a new leader handles Art Walk. There will be a City Council election and a batch of restaurants will open. The biggest convention ever to hit Los Angeles will arrive, and the X Games and other high-profile sports events will return. There might even be another Lakers championship parade. In this issue, Los Angeles Downtown News highlights 62 people, things, happenings, etc. that will stand out in 2011. Why 62? Why not? When things are this busy, you don’t make a cutoff for a random round number. The list starts on page 5.
Where to eat in the new year.
14
15 CALENDAR LISTINGS 18 CLASSIFIEDS
Clockwise from top left: Philanthropist and museum mogul Eli Broad; a rendering for the Sixth Street Viaduct replacement; new L.A. Archdiocese head Archbishop Jose Gomez; the X Games; First Fridays at the Natural History Museum; and the now relevant Los Angeles Kings.
The Voice of Downtown Los Angeles
photo courtesy of Bryce Kanights/Shazamm/ESPN Images.
by RichaRd Guzmán, Jon ReGaRdie and Ryan VaillancouRt
Big business in 2011.
photo by Gary Leonard
5
2 Downtown News
January 3, 2011
Twitter/DowntownNews
AROUNDTOWN Downtown Crime Drops 2.8% For the Year
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he LAPD’s Central Area, which covers most of Downtown, reported a 2.8% drop in violent and property crimes in 2010. The figure, compiled from reports through Dec. 18, also reflects an 11% decrease over the past two years; the trend continued with the appointment of new Central Area Captain Todd Chamberlain last January. The fall in Downtown crime began four years ago, after the launch of the Safer Cities Initiative, which deployed 50 extra officers to Skid Row. It led to a 30% decrease in 2007. Except for a slight uptick in 2008, crime has fallen every year since. In 2010, violent crime, a category that includes homicide, rape, robbery and aggravated assaults, dropped 7.8%. Robberies decreased 11.2%, from 474 in 2009 to 421 and aggravated assaults dropped 5.8% from 415 to 391. Rapes, however, increased 9%, from 33 to 36.
Art Walk Names New Director
T
he Downtown Art Walk last month named a new executive director to lead the popular and sometimes problematic monthly event. On Dec. 22, the board that oversees the gathering that brings thousands to the Historic Core on the second Thursday of each month announced the hiring of events producer Joe Moller. Moller, a Downtown resident, previously served as director for Anaheim’s Parks and Recreation Arts Program. As a producer his credits include the opening of the renovated Santa Monica Place and the Hollywood Film Festival. “We are thrilled to find someone with Joe’s experience, reputation and qualifications to lead Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk,” said organization chairman David Hernand in a statement. Moller is the fourth person to lead the Art Walk in its six-year history. In September, director Jay Lopez was fired after he announced on the Art Walk website that the event in its current form would be cancelled. The Art Walk board denied those statements and said the event would continue as planned. Amidst the hubbub, a group of Historic Core stakeholders pledged $200,000 to help run
The Art Program of the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Los Angeles (CRA/LA) developed these tours to introduce residents and visitors to their collection of public art created by a broad range of artist, in a variety of forms and neighborhood contexts. The tours available include:
Financial District Historic Core Bunker Hill Little Tokyo
the event. The money will allow Moller to be Art Walk’s first full-time salaried leader.
Counterfeit Crackdown Nets $4 Million in Fake Goods
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Broad Museum Design To Be Unveiled Jan. 6
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he proposed design for philanthropist Eli Broad’s $100 million contemporary art museum is set to be unveiled at a media event at Walt Disney Concert Hall on Thursday, Jan. 6. Elizabeth Diller of architecture firm Diller Scofidio + Renfro will be on hand for the presentation. Broad has kept preliminary designs for the Grand Avenue facility close to the vest since selecting the New York firm from a group of highprofile architects. Diller Scofidio is a prominent name in the contemporary art world — they were featured in a retrospective at the Whitney Museum in New York, and won a genius award from the MacArthur Foundation — but only one major building designed by the firm has actually been built, the Institute for Contemporary Art in Boston. Broad’s basic description of the museum calls for a three-story building with sun-lit galleries on the top level.
Malo Arrives, Barbecue King Leaves
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s the calendar changes, so does the Seventh Street restaurant scene. Long-awaited Mexican establishment Mas Malo will open Friday, Jan. 7, at 515 W. Seventh St. said proprietor Mitchell Frank. The offshoot of the popular Silver Lake eatery will be open seven days a week serving lunch and dinner, and will also offer a large bar. Meanwhile, The Original Texas Barbecue King closed its doors in mid-December. Rod Daniels, the founder and owner of Barbecue King, said business was slow at the 525 W. Seventh St. location, and with room for only eight tables and no customer parking, it was tough to compete. “We were trying to hang on and make it,” he said. Daniels said he plans to return to Downtown when the economy improves, though he has no timeline on when he’ll look for a new spot. Daniels has two other locations in South Los Angeles and Woodland Hills.
he Los Angeles Anti-Piracy Task Force has been busy this holiday season, netting $4.06 million in pirated goods in raids across the region, but focused in Downtown’s Fashion District. The task force, which formed in 2007 to combat counterfeiters, oversaw “Operation Chimney Sweep” in late December. In addition to the seized goods, authorities made 10 arrests. The sweep was the largest single raid on counterfeiters in L.A. history, said City Controller Wendy Greuel, who chairs the task force. “People who make counterfeit goods are stealing, plain and simple. It’s the same as picking someone’s pocket or shoplifting,” Greuel said in a Dec. 22 statement. “We lose more than 100,000 jobs and billions of dollars to our economy each year because of these crimes.” Since its inception in 2004, the LAPD’s own anti-piracy team has served 181 search warrants, made 498 arrests and seized $93.8 million worth of illegal goods. The LAPD and the Sheriff’s Department together have made more than 700 arrests and seized more than $305 million worth of counterfeit goods over the last five years, according to Greuel’s office.
Police Looking for Kidnap Suspect
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APD detectives are looking for a man who attempted to kidnap an 11-year-old boy in Chinatown on Dec. 14. The boy, who attends Nightingale Junior High School, was walking home at about 1 p.m. on Yale Street, near Alpine Street, when the suspect grabbed the boy’s arm, police said. The boy fought back and the suspect ran away. The boy was not injured. “The young man did the right thing to fight back,” Det. Amy Sundquist said. “We encourage any victim to fight off a kidnapper and draw attention to one’s self.” The suspect is believed to be about 5-foot-6 and weigh about 135 pounds. He is in his late 20s to early 30s and was wearing baggy jean shorts that reached to his ankles. A composite sketch of the suspect is at downtownnews. com. Anyone with information on the crime is asked to call Sundquist at (213) 972-1244.
Public Notice
DOWNLOAD FREE AUDIO TOURS to your personal MP3 player and explore the public art of Los Angeles like never before. Printable maps direct you to each stop as you listen to the artists’ stories.
Federal Railroad Administration
Public Information Meeting/Open House
Public For LOSSAN North Notice Rail Improvements
U.S. Department of Transportation
Federal Railroad Administration
Public Information Meeting/Open House
WHERE AND WHEN?
Luis Obispo For LOSSAN North San Rail Improvements
Date: Monday WHERE AND 10, WHEN? January 2011
Date:5:00 Monday Time: p.m - 7:00 p.m.
Place:
Time:
January 10, 2011
END
PROJECT
San Luis Obispo END
PROJECT
5:00 p.m - 7:00 p.m.
Transportation Los Angeles Authority Metropolitan Transportation Authority Metro-Boardroom Metro-Boardroom
One Gateway Plaza
LosLos Angeles, California Angeles, California90012 90012
Santa Barbara
Santa Barbara
LosPlace: Angeles Metropolitan
One Gateway Plaza
The Art Program is integral to CRA/LA’s mission to eliminate blight and to revitalize Los Angeles through focused redevelopment activities in designated project areas.
U.S. Department of Transportation
N N Not to Scale Not to Scale
Pacific Surfliner Rail Corridor Pacific Surfliner
Los Angeles
Ventura
Los Angeles
Ventura
Rail Corridor
BEGIN
PROJECT BEGIN
PROJECT
WHAT IS BEING PLANNED?? WHAT IS BEING PLANNED
California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), Division of Rail and the TheThe California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), Division Environmental of Rail and the Federal Railroad Administration propose to prepare a program-level Federal Railroad Administration propose to Impact prepareReport a program-level Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and Environmental (EIR) for passenger rail improvements the 222-mile Los Angeles Impact to San Luis Obispo North) rail Impact Statementto(EIS) and Environmental Report (EIR)(LOSSAN for passenger rail corridor. improvements to the 222-mile Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN North) THIS PUBLIC NOTICE? rail WHY corridor. Four scoping meetings will be held, one in each county (Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa WHY THIS PUBLIC NOTICE? Barbara, and San Luis Obispo) to solicit public and agency input into the
development of the environmental scope of the EIR/EIS and to advise the public that Four scopingactivities meetings will be held, oneDepartment in each county Angeles, Ventura, Santa outreach conducted by the and (Los its representatives will be Barbara, andin San Luis Obispo) to solicit public and agency input into the considered the preparation of the Program EIR/EIS. development of the environmental scope of the EIR/EIS and to advise the public that WHAT'S AVAILABLE ? outreach activities conducted by the Department and its representatives will be The LOSSAN CorridorofStrategic Plan (October considered in theNorth preparation the Program EIR/EIS.2007) describes the purpose and need for the proposed projects, the proposed projects themselves, and the
funding strategy for the proposed projects. The plan can be found on-line at: WHAT'S AVAILABLE ? http://149.136.20.80/rail/dor/assets/File/LOSSAN_North_Strategic.pdf
TheWHERE LOSSAN North Corridor DO YOU COME IN? Strategic Plan (October 2007) describes the purpose andThis need for the proposed projects, the proposed projects themselves, and the is your opportunity to provide input into the types of environmental impacts funding proposed projects. The developmental plan can be found on-line of at: the that strategy should for be the considered during the process Program-level EIR/EIS. Your comments will be part of the public record. http://149.136.20.80/rail/dor/assets/File/LOSSAN_North_Strategic.pdf CONTACT WHERE DO YOU COME IN?
For more information, or if you cannot attend the meeting but have comments,
or concerns to regarding program EIR/EIS, submit themimpacts in Thisquestions, is your opportunity providethe input into the types please of environmental by February 15, 2011, toduring Matt Fowler, Senior Environmental Planner,of 50 the thatwriting should be considered the developmental process Higuera Street, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401, by phone at (805) 542-4603, or by Program-level EIR/EIS. Your comments will be part of the public record. e-mail at matt_c_fowler@dot.ca.gov. For all other Railroad information, please contact Joe Valdez at (916) 654-7188 or by email at joe@dot.ca.gov.
CONTACT
SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS
ForIndividuals more information, or if you cannot attend the meeting but have comments, who require special accommodations (Spanish Interpreter, questions, or Sign concerns regarding the program EIR/EIS, please submit theminin American Language interpreter, accessible seating, documentation alternate formats, 15, etc.) are to required to contact the Environmental District 5 Public Affairs 50 writing by February 2011, Matt Fowler, Senior Planner, OfficeStreet, at (805) at CA least 3 days before atthe Public Hearing. Higuera San 549-3318 Luis Obispo, 93401, by phone (805) 542-4603, or by Telecommunications Devices for the Deaf (TDD) users may contact the e-mail at matt_c_fowler@dot.ca.gov. Foratall1-800-735-2922 other Railroad information, please California Relay Service TDD line or Voice Line at contact Joe Valdez at (916) 654-7188 or by email at joe@dot.ca.gov. 1-800-735-2922.
SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS Individuals who require special accommodations (Spanish Interpreter, American Sign Language interpreter, accessible seating, documentation in
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Downtown News 3
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Downtown News 5
POWER PLAYERS photo by Gary Leonard
In the Valley of Eli
photo by Gary Leonard
photo by Gary Leonard
DowntownNews.com
helmed the local archdiocese for a quarter century. While his constituents mostly worship at the local parishes, he’ll also have an audience with elected leaders across the county, including those in City Hall. Gomez has already pledged to continue Mahony’s stance on advocating for the region’s large immigrant population. Mahony’s church-mandated retirement at 75 and Gomez’s installment will be among 2011’s most heralded events.
B
illionaire philanthropist Eli Broad has always had his eyes, hands and influence on Downtown. In 2011, that won’t change a bit. Broad figures to be especially visible as his planned $100 million contemporary art museum the Broad Collection takes shape — designs will be unveiled Jan. 6 and he wants to start construction soon enough to open by the end of 2012. His reach extends across Grand Avenue to MOCA, which he rescued in 2009 when it had a financial tumble. Also, as various politicos consider running for mayor, expect them to pay a visit hoping for his backing. Basically, if something important happens on Grand Avenue, expect Broad to be behind the curtains, pulling the levers.
Richard’s Rebound
M
eruelo Maddux Properties continues to muck through the Chapter 11 bankruptcy game, but it is now in the bottom of ninth. A judge is slated to pick from one of three reorganization plans in late January. Can Richard Meruelo, the connected power player who went from humble beginnings to one of Downtown’s largest landlords, avoid striking out? If Meruelo’s plan succeeds, it will be more like a sacrifice bunt, but at least it will keep him around for the future. The plan envisions very slow growth for the firm, with a focus on repaying creditors before making new investments. Everyone who knows Meruelo knows never to count him out.
Power to the Pulpit
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hen Archbishop Jose Gomez (right) succeeds Cardinal Roger Mahony as head of the Los Angeles Archdiocese in February, he won’t just be the new leader of the region’s 5 million Catholics (70% of whom are Latino): He’ll instantly be a political power player. The Mexico-born Gomez has been learning the job at Mahony’s side since April, when Pope Benedict XVI selected him to replace the man who has
Steering the MOCA Ship
J
effrey Deitch, who took over as director of the Museum of Contemporary Art last June, will seek to steer the museum in some promising directions in 2011. There’s a retrospective for L.A.-based artist William Leavitt (March-July), and
a show sure to gain plenty of publicity in Art in the Streets (April-September). To gin up buzz for that exhibition, Deitch in December gave a wall at the Geffen Contemporary, and creative carte blanche, to street artist Blu. Oops, we know how that worked out. In addition to staging shows and planning new ones, Deitch will spend plenty of time going to affluent folk around Los Angeles, searching for donations to boost MOCA’s endowment.
Artistic Identity Crisis
A
fter a brutal 2010, the Downtown Art Walk sure needs some stability. It will be up to events producer Joe Moller to provide it. Although more than 10,000 people attend the street fest that takes place the second Thursday of every month, things exploded last year when director Jay Lopez declared Art Walk (in its current form) dead on the organization’s website. Folks freaked, Lopez got fired, and amid the tumult a group of property owners recognized the promise of the event and pledged $200,000 to save it; now the board has found the fourth leader of the 6-year-old event. Moller, who was named to the post in December, will have to satisfy the crowds who want a good party and a lot of food trucks, as well as the gallery owners who complain that Art Walk has little to do with art. The new leader also needs to handle security and clean up. see 2011, page 6
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Twitter/DowntownNews core group of participants who volunteer and attend meetings, but Berman says she is intent on bringing in more people. That means the group is taking to Twitter and Facebook for some civic-minded social networking. Other projects on Berman’s to-do list include gathering volunteers to tend the south lawn at the LAPD headquarters building.
Continued from page 5
Hey Hey CRA
POLITICS
I
Sonny With a Chance of A New Building
Reyes of Light
CD 14, Beyond Thunderdome photo by Gary Leonard
photo courtesy of Benjamin James
t’s been hard for the Community Redevelopment Agency lately. The state snatched millions of dollars from its coffers. In December, more than 40 staffers, including some with immense institutional knowledge, took early retirement offers. The agency was even forced last year from its longtime Historic Core home to Siberia-like digs in City West. All of which means new CEO Chris Essel has her hands full, especially when the still-blah economy leaves little cash or public appetite for redevelopment. Essel, however, comes armed with skills and relationships: The former Paramount Pictures VP once chaired the CRA board, and she’s in concert with Team Villaraigosa/Beutner on development reform. With the exodus of jobs complete, she’ll need to remake the agency. Expect her vision to come into focus in the first quarter.
photo by Gary Leonard
2011
accolades from the business community (facilitating development reform and restaurant permitting will do that) and occasionally infuriated City Hall (the Council set detests those who don’t kiss the ring). All of which makes him someone to watch, as well as a mystery in 2011. Will he run for mayor? Can he bring development reform to fruition? Will the shenanigans of city government make him throw up his hands in frustration and return to the private sector?
T
he best political race of 2011 began last year, and even in normally dead December 14th District Councilman José Huizar and restaurant owner/reality show guy Rudy Martinez were repeatedly shivving each other in the ribs. The race to represent the district Huizar has held for five years (it includes Downtown’s east side, as well as Boyle Heights, Eagle Rock and other areas) will be brutal, sort of like when Clubber Lang and the Italian Stallion whale on each other in Rocky III. The attacks will be professional and personal, local business players will be hounded to contribute to both, and wily campaign managers Parke Skelton (Huizar) and Eric Hacopian (Martinez) will go deep on opposition research and harsh mailers. Voters go to the polls March 8.
L
ast year was painful for Sonny Astani, developer of the three-building Concerto complex at Ninth and Figueroa streets (the third structure is entitled, but not built). The mid-level annex opened in the summer, but he’s been in a bitter tug of war for control of the high-rise with Starwood Properties, a hedge fund that acquired the defunct bank that originated the Concerto loan. This year, Astani is looking to sell the building through the Chapter 11 bankruptcy process. He is reportedly interested in using proceeds from a sale to start another two-tower complex at Eighth and Grand that is already entitled for 900 condos. It seems 2011 can’t be any worse than last year.
irst District Councilman Ed Reyes has never been a flashy guy. He doesn’t get in trouble, make waves or live outside his district. Instead, he plods forward, focusing on core issues like affordable housing and the Los Angeles River. This lunch bucket politician (if there is such a thing) is termed out in 2013, making 2011 his last real chance to launch big programs. Chinatown is waiting to see if he can revive Blossom Plaza, and river advocates hope he leaves behind true momentum for the waterway.
photo by Gary Leonard
Lights, Camera, Austin photo by Gary Leonard
Tweet DLANC, Tweet
F
Will the Next Mayor Please Stand Up, Please Stand Up, Please Stand Up
W
L
ast June, Patti Berman replaced Russell Brown as president of the volunteer Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council. In 2011, Berman says the council has community outreach at the top of its agenda. DLANC has a
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ast January, little-known Austin Beutner became first deputy mayor. Six months later he was essentially running Los Angeles, being the big boss man for more than a dozen departments including the dopey DWP. He earned
ith Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa in Lame Duckville (it’s near Reseda), the men and women with aspirations to rule a nearly bankrupt Los Angeles will start jostling come springtime. Some will get an early jump on the 2013 election and form campaign teams, while others will observe the field and consider whether they can raise the money and build the blocs needed to get out of a tough primary. We may not know until late in the year who will run and what deals will be cut, but observers are already watching individuals including (warning, long alphabetically arranged list coming): Austin Beutner, Rick Caruso, Crusty the Clown, Eric Garcetti, Wendy Greuel, Fabian Nuñez, Alex Padilla, Jan Perry, Herb Wesson and Zev Yaroslavsky (note, at least one of those is a joke).
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January 3, 2011
Downtown News 7
DowntownNews.com
rendering by Gensler
Party for 72,000
ate last year, Anschutz Entertainment Group President and CEO Tim Leiweke launched the, for lack of a better term, public outreach component of the effort to build a $1 billion football stadium/convention facility at L.A. Live. The carefully choreographed show will continue at least into early 2011: An architect for the 72,000-seat stadium will be named in January and AEG has given a March “deadline” to reach agreement with the city on plans to raze the Convention Center’s West Hall and then build a new $350 million convention wing. AEG also wants to know if the NFL would OK the plan and which team would move by March, so expect league Commissioner Roger Goodell to say some encouraging things around the February Super Bowl. The big question: Is this AEG gamesmanship, or is the deal already secretly done? Only a few people know, and they’re not talking.
A Blossom Without A Bloom
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he Community Redevelopment Agency expects to receive proposals from developers for the former Blossom Plaza project by March 4. The intent is to find someone, anyone, with the money, plans and community outreach skills to activate the 1.9-acre site on Broadway between College and Spring streets. The Chinatown location was formerly slated for the $165 million development that died due to financing problems. The city then purchased the fully entitled land for $9.9 million. The lot holds the former Little Joe’s restaurant, which has been closed for more than 10 years.
he LAPD finished building an $80 million jail in 2009, but the Metropolitan Detention Center is still empty — for now. That is slated to change soon, as the City Council approved a plan last year to transition the jailers and detainees from the city jail in the 1955 Parker Center building to the new Los Angeles Street MDC late this month. The delay was rooted in the fact that the new, larger jail requires more employees to operate, at a time when the department has a hiring freeze. Chief Charlie Beck and the LAPD will solve the problem by pulling 83 officers off the streets. The department defended criticism of the decision, particularly from the Police Protective League, by pointing out that the Parker Center facility is a
public safety threat to jailers, detainees and visitors.
A Bridge Too Old
T
he city completed an environmental review of a plan to replace the ailing, 78-year-old Sixth Street Viaduct in August. see 2011, page 8
The Building Your Dream Police
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hinese electric car manufacturer BYD last April announced plans to open a headquarters on Figueroa Street. Work continues and the BYD (it stands for “Build Your Dreams”) project is set to open in February. The facility at 1800 S. Figueroa St. will function as a showroom for the firm’s electric cars and other sustainable technologies, including solar energy creation and storage systems, as well as a center for research and development offices. The project that will generate 150 high-paying jobs could have greater impacts, however: It is one of several developments along the Figueroa Corridor poised to boost the district’s quest to become a major hub for the auto business. Additionally, a BYD success could open the doors for a wave of Chinese businesses coming into Los Angeles.
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Going to Detention photo by Gary Leonard
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City Councilman José Huizar, is slated to complete an economic analysis early in the year to determine the details of a proposed assessment district aimed at raising a large portion of the funds. The study will look at who would be taxed, and if it would be just property owners on the proposed route linking L.A. Live, Bunker Hill and Broadway, or also landlords in the surrounding area. The streetcar team will also apply this summer for about $30 million to $50 million in federal funds, and an environmental review is expected to be complete by the end of the year. A new groundbreaking date has been set for 2013 with completion by 2015.
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rendering courtesy of Bureau of Engineering
rendering courtesy of LASI
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Continued from page 7 But the plan, which includes an analysis of several retrofit or replacement options, is still awaiting final approval by the CalTrans legal team. That review is expected to be finished in February. A chemical reaction likened to concrete “cancer” is breaking down the bridge that spans the Los Angeles River between Downtown and Boyle Heights, though officials have said there is no imminent danger of collapse. Current projections indicate that a new bridge won’t come until 2017 at the earliest; the price has been estimated at $359 million. In 2011, a debate over the best designs for replacing the structure will heat up again.
rendering courtesy of Thomas Properties Group/AC Martin
Wouldn’t it Be Grand
and David Weinstein is in. Both have expressed a need to focus on the company’s core assets, all Downtown trophy towers, including California Plaza and Library Tower. In order to find stability, Weinstein will have to focus in 2011 on restructuring a mountain of debt, starting with the $470 million mortgage on Two Cal Plaza. Shareholders will hope that the already battered stock price doesn’t fall any lower.
In With the Inn Crowd
It’s Not Easy Being Clean
I
n November, as part of his football push, Anschutz Entertainment Group President and CEO Tim Leiweke referenced a new hotel venture the company will announce in early 2011, though he would not give details. The following month, company Vice President Ted Tanner mentioned a coming 375-room hotel north of the Convention Center hotel. While no operator has been announced, the info follows generally solid bookings for the $1 billion Marriott/Ritz that debuted this year. Expect to learn soon whether the new addition is a hip boutique or something mainstream.
Some 411 on 655
T
he 17-story emerald colored office tower-turned condo complex 655 Hope has a hazy future, but something’s gotta give in 2011. The $17 million project developed by The Seck Group was beset by several inspection-related delays. Last September, officials with the 80-unit project said they had yet to meet presale requirements needed to open. Could the Financial District’s long-stalled edifice finally come online in 2011? Downtown will just have to (655) hope.
The Great Statues
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he martial arts master Bruce Lee and Cyrus the Great could be calling Downtown home soon. The Bruce Lee Foundation and the Bruce Lee Committee, which includes various Chinatown stakeholders, last year began looking at placing a statue commemorating Lee at either the Alpine Recreation Center or in Chinatown’s Central or West plazas. Once a decision is made on location, the CRA will help the organizations bring the statue to life — er, to its new home. Meanwhile, there is also a movement afoot to erect a statue of Cyrus in Pershing Square. The Delijani family would fund the bronze memorial to the figure who ruled Persia circa 600 B.C. Plans still have to go through the city’s Cultural Affairs Commission and the Recreation and Parks Commission in 2011.
K
orean Air and Thomas Properties Group are slated to move forward this year on the first phase of a $1 billion plan to raze the Wilshire Grand Hotel and build a new luxury hotel and office complex in its place. The developers are tracking a December 2011 demolition date, with construction starting a year later, and the 560room hotel (topped by 100 condominiums) opening in 2015. Before they get too far ahead of themselves, they’ll need an OK from the City Council, which could consider the project as soon as February.
Full Swap
T
he Civic Center continues to be dragged down by a couple duds: the mostly vacated and out-of-date Parker Center east of City Hall, and a hole in the ground at the southwest corner of First Street and Broadway that has long been planned as a Federal Courthouse. With no momentum for a courthouse or a Parker Center replacement, city officials last year asked the Chief Legislative Analyst to determine the feasibility of trading the former police building for the 3.6-acre plot owned by the Feds. The report is due back to the City Council by February, meaning a plan of action could materialize in 2011. Or, nothing will materialize, and both will sit derelict.
photo by Gary Leonard
Lock, Stock and Brockman
Steel Cage Match, Park vs. Rail
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fficials with the Los Angeles State Historic Park got everyone excited in December when they unveiled an $18 million plan to renovate the 32-acre park by mid-2014. There’s only one pothole — make that a trench: Plans for the $40 billion high-speed rail system that would link San Francisco to Southern California could cut right through the park. Officials with the California High Speed Rail Authority could make a decision this year on a route that would impact the park as the train approaches Union Station from the north. One plan would involve digging up the park, laying track, and then covering the tunnel. Park proponents are saying don’t close the amenity, even for a short time.
Block Bombs
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ast year city officials launched a bidding process for the seven-building Pico-Garnier Block at El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument. It seemed like a good idea at the time, but no one bid. That makes 2011 key for the project, and El Pueblo officials said they will survey those who showed interest on the project to find out why they declined to make a run at the complex that includes the Pico House, the city’s first three-story structure. Potential next steps include a new bidding process, or even a developer coming forward with a formal proposal for the site.
BUSINESS
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nce upon a time, the Brockman Building was one of Downtown’s most anticipated residential projects. Then, in 2009, developer West Millennium went bankrupt. The 80 finished units in the building at 530 W. Seventh St., which houses Bottega Louie on the ground floor, are dark. But that could change this year. Lender Bank of America was looking for court approval
rendering courtesy of Community Redevelopment Agency
2011
to proceed with a foreclosure sale on Dec. 30 (after press time), which would be a first step toward the bank finding a new owner for the $44 million project. Then again, the high price might not fetch a buyer, and BofA could hang onto the building and do nothing until the market improves. Watching how this project shapes up and shakes out could be a good case study for the Downtown residential market in 2011.
In MPG We Trust, or Not
T
he wheels have not fallen off the bus driven by commercial property giant MPG Office Trust, though they are unquestionably wobbly and the tires are bald. Nelson Rising bailed out late last year as CEO,
T
he Community Redevelopment Agency’s long, frustrating effort to develop a clean technology-oriented industrial park in southeast Downtown is poised to make progress in 2011 — yes, we’ve heard that before. In December, seven firms submitted proposals for the Cleantech Manufacturing Center, to rise on a city-owned site east of Santa Fe Avenue near the intersection of 15th Street and Washington Boulevard. The bids have not been made public, but they should be aired in February. The agency, and Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, have long dreamed of building a hub for manufacturers and developers of clean technologies. The bids could — operative word, could — lead to a developer being selected within a few months.
Getting PC in Downtown
W
hen the Microsoft 2011 Worldwide Partner Conference comes to the Los Angeles Convention Center July 10-14, it will be much more than a gathering of code-slinging geeks: It will mark the largest convention in Los Angeles history. According to city officials, the five-day event is expected to bring up to 15,000 people to Downtown and is anticipated to generate $45 million in spending and 50,000 hotel room nights across the region. It will also mark another success for the $1 billion, 1,001room Convention Center hotel — tourism officials have said the event would not have arrived without the building. If you want a meal at a South Park restaurant come convention time, make reservations now.
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
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Editor & PublishEr: Sue Laris GENErAl MANAGEr: Dawn Eastin ExEcutivE Editor: Jon Regardie citY Editor: Richard Guzmán stAFF writEr: Ryan Vaillancourt coNtributiNG Editors: David Friedman, Kathryn Maese coNtributiNG writErs: Pamela Albanese, Jay Berman, Jim Farber, Jeff Favre, Michael X. Ferraro, Kristin Friedrich, Howard Leff, Rod Riggs, Marc Porter Zasada Art dirEctor: Brian Allison AssistANt Art dirEctor: Yumi Kanegawa ProductioN ANd GrAPhics: Alexis Rawlins PhotoGrAPhEr: Gary Leonard AccouNtiNG: Ashley Schmidt AdvErtisiNG dirEctor: Steve Nakutin sAlEs AssistANt: Annette Cruz clAssiFiEd AdvErtisiNG MANAGEr: Catherine Holloway AccouNt ExEcutivEs: Catherine Holloway, Brenda Stevens, Billy Wright, Lon Wahlberg circulAtioN: Norma Rodas distributioN MANAGEr: Salvador Ingles distributioN AssistANts: Lorenzo Castillo, Gustavo Bonilla 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.
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T
he Little Tokyo Shopping Center has faded in recent years, and the mall at 333 S. Alameda St. is about 40% vacant. Activity could increase this year, as the group of Korean-American investors who bought the property in 2008 have begun plans to bring approximately eight new restaurants to the three-story fortress-like structure. The 25-yearold mall will also undergo a renovation with the goal of giving it a more open and inviting look. The 250,000-square-foot building last year saw the arrival of a new nightclub, Vault 21.
ast summer was the first of a two-year contract between Anschutz Entertainment Group and ESPN to host the entire extreme sports extravaganza known as X Games in Downtown Los Angeles. That means another guaranteed week of kick-flips, grinds and tail whips inside and outside Staples Center, Nokia Theatre and at the Coliseum in Exposition Park. Dates haven’t yet been announced for the 17th installment, but the event usually hits in late July. Radical dude.
photo by Gary Leonard
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SPORTS JAM on It!
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owntown will be the center of the basketball universe on President’s Day weekend, when the best of the NBA (and their entourages) flood Staples Center for the All-Star Game. These days, the game itself is almost a footnote to the dunk contest, the skills challenges, the parties and other happenings that Kobe, Lebron and the league brass enjoy. Yet this raises a question: What’s in it for Downtown? Actually, a lot. In addition to an event with an estimated $85 million economic impact, there is the JAM Session. This Disneyland for hoops fans will take over the Convention Center Feb. 18-21. There will be autograph sessions, player appearances, photo ops, playing cards, a celebrity game and more. It will be open to the public.
photo courtesy of Bryce Kanights/Shazamm/ESPN Images
Return of the X
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Phil Jackson’s Last Stand
In the Market owntown will get a new supermarket in 2011, just not the Trader Joe’s everyone is holding their breath for. Riverside-based grocery chain Rio Ranch Market in November announced plans to open a 35,000-squarefoot store on the ground floor of the Grand Plaza building at 701 W. Cesar Chavez Ave. Rio Ranch, which has eight locations in Southern California, traditionally caters to Latino consumers, but the Downtown location will offer a more international selection of goods. The store will arrive in the second quarter and be open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and include a cafe and fresh food options
Livin’ la Vida Laker he annual NBA 101 event has come to be a Laker lover’s highlight, and last year’s happening orchestrated by the Los Angeles Sports & Entertainment Commission brought Jerry West himself in front of the intimate crowd of 500. So what do you do for an encore? “We think it will be better than ever this year,” said Kathryn Schloessman, president of the LASEC. The Jan. 27 event at Staples Center has been renamed Lakers All Access All-Star Edition, because it really is all purple and gold (sorry Clippers). Attendees will get the chance to take shots on the court, tour the locker rooms, pose with NBA championship trophies, grab autographs, take in a tutorial led by Phil Jackson and get up close and personal with players including Derek Fisher and Luke Walton.
Three on Threepeat photo by Gary Leonard
Mall Makeover
T
hose are his words. Ring-bearer Phil Jackson says this season will be his last as an NBA coach. That’s disheartening for the Lakers’ faithful, but it sure lends some emotional weight and motivation to the 2011 threepeat campaign. It’s not exactly a shocker that the man with a history of bad knees and hips is ready to retire and retreat to Montana. The guy already has more rings (11) than he has fingers, after all. Then again, Kobe Bryant and the Lakers seem pretty darn intent on making sure he retires with 12. A nice round number, isn’t it?
It’s Good to Be the Kings
T
he Los Angeles Kings surprised everybody when they finally seemed to live up to expectations and obliterated the competition for the first month and a half of the season. Skating into the new year, the Kings are still winning, but at a more human level. In 2011, there are two things that can happen: revert to old habits and slip out of playoff contention, or continue to play like a Western Conference power. If Anze Kopitar, Dustin Brown and other team leaders keep up their winning ways, they will return to the playoffs. Last year, the Kings lost in the first round to Vancouver; it was their first post-season trip in eight years, and the Staples Center faithful want more.
March Madness, Pac 10 Style
T
he Final Four won’t take place in Los Angeles if and until that gigantic football stadium opens. However, come March Staples Center will again serves as the big stage for the men’s Pac 10 Tournament; the conference includes USC and UCLA, in case anyone cares. The tourney runs March 9-11 and this year this is accented by the lady hoopers. Yep, the Pac 10 women’s semi-final and championship games will also unfold in the house that Roski and Anschutz built (in the past, the women played at USC’s Galen Center, which this year will host just the opening rounds). Tournament winners get an automatic bid to the NCAA March Madness.
T
he Nike 3-on-3 Tournament at L.A. Live debuted in 2009, and returns for its third year in 2011. The event is a streetballer’s paradise, with 70 half-courts set up along a closed-to-traffic Chick Hearn Court, on top of the event deck west of the Nokia Theatre and in a parking lot east of Figueroa Street. Last year’s event drew more than 1,000 teams, and it’s poised to get bigger — maybe much bigger. Nike consults a group out of Spokane, Wash. to help organize the tourney. The same group founded a tournament in Washington in 1990 that has ballooned from 512 teams to 6,725 in 2009.
The Sinking Clipper Ship
D
oes Donald Sterling have any fans? The real estate tycoon is in a familiar position headed into 2011: His team, talented on paper, flat out stinks. They’re third worst in the Western Conference. He also has egg on his face, after it was widely reported that Sterling was heckling his own players during games (his employees, if you will, who play in front of his paying customers). It’s unclear whether Sterling even cares. The Clippers have a major crowd pleaser and ticket seller in rookie Blake Griffin, but they’ve already dug themselves a hole so deep that only a miracle could land them in the playoffs. When will Sterling finally just sell the franchise? Already fans are preparing for the day when a fed-up Griffin bolts.
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HEALTH
The Shape of Things Keeping That New Year’s Resolution Without Having to Join a Gym here are always a couple of things you can count on come New Year’s. Chances are you’re going to party way too hard for your age on Dec. 31. Also a good bet is that you will make a few New Year’s resolutions. The most popular concern getting in shape. The problem is, few people follow through. Not only is working out hard, it takes a lot of time. The joy of joining a gym subsides when you actually have to show up and sweat on a regular basis. Fortunately, there are Downtown Los Angeles exercise options that go beyond the treadmill and pumping iron. Here are three things to do, and while they still take work, they just may help you stick to that resolution, and stay active and motivated throughout 2011.
steps (75 floors) to the top of U.S. Bank Tower. The annual Stair Climb to the Top, this year scheduled for Sept. 30, raises money for YMCA youth and teen programs and will leave you exhausted. Of course, one day does not an exercise regimen make, and Downtown offers many choices for those who want to build a workout program around Stair Climb prep. There are high-rises where both office workers and residents can get the heart pumping. For outdoor fun, go up and down the Spanish Steps just west of U.S. Bank Tower and across the street from the Central Library. Or, head to Angels Flight, and once there, skip the train and instead climb the 150 steps that connect Bunker Hill and the Historic Core. You’ll have to go up and down five times to equal the Ketchum climb, but you can work your way up to that. Information at ymcala.org/ketchum.
Stairway to Slim: Elevators were invented for a reason: climbing a lot of stairs is really hard. You feel the burn in every part of your body. That is also why it is great exercise, and why the Ketchum Downtown YMCA declares that “Elevators are for wimps” as they challenge Downtowners to climb 1,500
Park Fun: An outdoor scenic workout surrounded by nature can provide a lot of motivation for those wanting to get in shape. This is actually possible in Downtown Los Angeles, thanks to the Los Angeles State Historic Park. The 32-acre facility on the edge of Chinatown isn’t just a place to take your
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lunch break or relax on the grass (although it’s perfect for that too). A one-mile track loops around the park and is pretty flat, making it the right spot to try to break the eightminute mile barrier (OK, start at 12 minutes per mile and work down). It is easier on the knees and ankles than running on Central City pavement, and there’s plenty to look at with migratory birds stopping by for a rest, seasonal wildflowers and even a few gophers who pop their heads out of the ground every once in a while. For a different kind of workout, the Vista Hermosa Park in City West has a hilly terrain. Walkways traverse the 10-acre spot, and you’ll pass a stream, meadows and oak savannahs while getting your uphill and downhill exercise. Los Angeles State Historic Park is at 1245 N. Spring St. Vista Hermosa Park is at 100 N. Toluca St. Dance Off the Calories: Even if you have no rhythm, you can make dancing a part of your regular workout in Downtown, with places that offer free lessons followed by an aerobic party that will make you forget you’re actually burning calories. The Music
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Center’s Dance Downtown series runs from May through September with lessons offered at the Music Center Plaza. It won’t get you heart healthy — events only take place every other Friday — but it could be the impetus to discover a new form of exercise. Each session is a different style, from line dancing to samba to Bollywood. Another option is the Conga Room, where the salseros are in great shape. Yes, this is a nightclub, not a gym, but again, it can be an introduction to a form of exercise that doesn’t always feel like exercise. The Conga Room offers free Saturday dance lessons from 8-9 p.m. before the club opens (although you will have to pay cover charge). If you go often enough, you’ll not only burn calories, but you may eventually be good enough to impress others on the dance floor. But be warned: Salsa is addictive, so you may find yourself working out more than you ever planned. Music Center Plaza is at 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-3660 or musiccenter.org. Conga Room is at 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 7450162 or congaroom.com. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.
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On Monday, February 14, 2011, Los Angeles Downtown News will publish the first of four Healthcare Quarterlies.
photo by Gary Leonard
The one-mile oval path at Los Angeles State Historic Park is an option for people who want to run but don’t want the knee and ankle pounding that occurs on Central City pavement.
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Health
Studies Say Hispanics Genetically Predisposed to Fatty Liver Disease by Meghan Lewitt
atrics, and director of the USC Childhood Obesity Research Center at the Keck School. “This is a major public health concern, especially in the face of massive marketing of sugary beverages to children.”
T
wo studies from the Childhood Obesity Research Center at the USC Keck School of Medicine have found evidence that Hispanic children and adolescents are genetically predisposed to developing fatty liver disease, a condition that can lead to cirrhosis, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The studies, recently published in the journals Diabetes and the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that Hispanic children who carry the PNPLA3 gene variant (GG) have increased liver fat. Children who carry the variant are also more susceptible to developing liver fat when consuming a high sugar diet. Previous research has shown that Hispanics are particularly susceptible to the accumulation of fat in the liver, and reports suggest that nearly four of 10 obese Hispanic children and adolescents have nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. “Collectively these findings demonstrate that Hispanics are genetically susceptible to the negative health effects of high sugar consumption, and that this effect is manifested early in life,” said principal investigator Michael Goran, a professor of preventive medicine, physiology and biophysics and pedi-
This is a major public health concern, especially in the face of massive marketing of sugary beverages to children. The researchers conducted cross-sectional studies of more than 300 Hispanic youth (ages 8-18) in the Los Angeles area, using metabolic, diet and genetic measures. They found that GG carriers have almost double the amount of liver fat content as non-carriers. The effects are strongest in Hispanics be-
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cause the frequency of the variant is much higher (49%) than in whites (23%) or African Americans (17%), said Jaimie Davis, assistant professor of preventive medicine at the Keck School and a lead author on the studies. The findings suggest that obese Hispanic children with the variant have an increased capacity for fat storage and decreased hepatic lipid mobilization (breakdown of stored fats), among those whose diets are high in sugar, she said. Sugar intake is high among youth in Los Angeles and accounts for nearly half of all daily carbohydrate intake and 25% of energy intake. However, because the link between high sugar diets and liver fat accumulation was only evident among children who had the GG variant, the findings could have important implications for treating NAFLD, Davis said. “Specific dietary interventions based on the genetic predisposition may lead to more effective therapeutic outcomes in children with fatty liver disease,” she said. “I think the studies really highlight the need to test such diet and genotyping interventions.” “The work done by Dr. Goran and his team is at the interface of personalized and community health,” said Brent Polk, professor and chair of the Department of Pediatrics and director of the Saban Research Institute at the Keck School and Childrens Hospital Los Angeles. “While we know that this genetic variant is overrepresented in Hispanic people, the findings help us identify individuals with increased susceptibility to worse disease,” he said. “Now we can ask, does early intervention in this group prevent their progression to the complications of fatty liver disease?” Article courtesy USC HSC Weekly
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CALENDAR S
tephanie Germanotta, who performs onstage as Lady Gaga, had a pretty nice Downtown encounter last August: She sold out two shows at Staples Center. She returns to the venue on March 28, and expect the crowd to be just as effusive as before. The pop princess with the funny outfits will also bring her elaborate set decorations and team of dancers to the Downtown stage for the Monster Ball tour. Expect to hear your co-workers humming hits like “Poker Face,” “Bad Romance,” “Paparazzi” and “Just Dance” on March 29.
In Good Company
photo by Gary Leonard
Fantastic Mr. Vaux
Word to Your Moms, I Came to Drop Brahms
M
ay is Johannes Brahms month at Walt Disney Concert Hall, and Los Angeles Philharmonic Music Director Gustavo Dudamel will be in the house teasing out the nuances of the classic German composer. Already a Brahms fan? Then you’ve had May 2011, when the Phil will perform nine of his works, circled for a while. If you have to pick just one concert, it should be the May 12-14 run of the epic German Requiem, which will show off the vocal pipes of the L.A. Master Chorale. The show includes the West Coast premiere of Steven Mackey’s Beautiful Passing, a violin concerto for Leila Josefowicz inspired by the death of the composer’s mother.
L.A. Opera, All About the Benjamin
T
his is not your grandmother’s opera, unless your grandmother really dug occasionally atonal harmony, horror story theatrical devices and wasn’t embarrassed by themes of sexual abuse. Is that bubbe? Benjamen Britten’s 1954 adaptation of the Henry James novella The Turn of the Screw takes the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion stage March 12-30. Patricia Racette sings the lead role of the Governess, joined by William Burden as Peter Quint. L.A. Opera Music Director James Conlon conducts.
T
he dark vaudevillian circus that for two summers set up its twisted big top in Los Angeles State Historic Park move indoors this month to Club Nokia. It’s quite a venue switch for the fire-breathing, high-wire walking, sexy contortionist bunch. But if anyone can rub the corporate gleam off L.A. Live to make for a gritty and authentic show, it’s Cirque Berzerk. The happening founded by husband and wife team Kevin Bourque and Suzanne Bernel takes over Club Nokia Jan. 7-30 with 29 shows. Think of it as a backyard version of Barnum and Bailey’s, with whiskey instead of cotton candy, and corsets instead of candy-cane stripes.
sounds. The $1,500 in prizes guarantees that the senior set will bring their talents to Angelus Plaza.
I
t’s a twice-a-year-ritual beloved by the bird-brained in Downtown: Thousands of tiny Vaux’s Swifts stop in the Historic Core during their migration between Mexico and the Pacific Northwest. When the Vaux’s (rhymes with foxes) visit L.A. on their way north in mid-April, they roost by the thousands in the chimney of the Chester Williams building at Fifth Street and Broadway (they visit again when heading south in September). Their evening descent into the chimney is a sight to behold, and the local Audubon Society arranges public viewings.
Nights at the Museum photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging
photo by Kevin Rolly
Good Good Gaga
the Exposition Park attraction into a hip nightspot. The NHM will stay open until 10 p.m. and combines live music, a scientific discussion and tours. The 2011 season is called “The Nostradamus Edition,” and features speakers who will explore the ways that science will affect the future. The first installment is Jan. 7 and includes music from bands Little Dragon and Sister Crayon, and a discussion titled “The Science of Creativity” with Jonah Lehrer. If you’re lucky, you’ll go the museum and pick up more than some knowledge.
photo by Danny Munoz
Bigger, Badder, Berzerker
photo by Gary Leonard
CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENT
L
ast October, theater troupe Company of Angels celebrated its 50th birthday. Now in its 51st year, the group based at the Alexandria Hotel is not slowing down. In fact, the city’s oldest repertory theater has a season that starts Jan. 6 and runs all the way through August. First up is Fatigued, two short plays (they run through Jan. 23 and a scene is shown here) about Iraqi war veterans and how they deal with the aftermath of battle. The season concludes with Vasanti Saxena’s Sun Sisters, which explores a mother’s secret that surprises and challenges her daughter. OK, that sounds really Lifetimey, but CofA is usually pretty gritty.
Burning Brightly Once Again
Experience Counts
T
he Downtown business and residential sectors rarely cross paths with Angelus Plaza, the Hill Street senior housing mega-complex. That changes in August with the Senior Talent Show. There is serious fun and entertainment as 60- 70-, 80- and even 90-somethings get on up and do their thing. Dancers, musicians, magicians and more get three minutes — go over and the gong
C O
nce a month, the Natural History Museum becomes more than a home for dinosaur bones and crusty dioramas. On the first Friday of the month from January to June, the fittingly named First Fridays will turn
enter Theatre Group brings the work of Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Lanford Wilson to the stage in 2011 with an “anti-love” story. Burn This, which actually premiered at the Mark Taper Forum in 1987 (long before Justin Beiber was born), is reprised March 23-May 1. The play centers on a character named Pale, which has been portrayed by Hollywood heavyweights
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including John Malkovich and Edward Norton (casting information for the Downtown run has not yet been announced). The homophobic man, whose gay brother has recently died, falls for Anna, a choreographer who was his dead brother’s roommate. Despite their best efforts, love, hilarity and drama ensue.
Not Just Jazz, And Not at Lincoln Center photo by Clay McBride
Holy Carnage speakers and programs, returns with another packed, thought-provoking and discussion-inspiring lineup in 2011. One of the highlights comes early, with the Jan. 11 discussion “NPR at 40: What Is the Future of Public Radio?” Taking on a favorite subject for brainy, literary, Tea Party-hating Angelenos will be Susan Stamberg (left), a special correspondent for NPR, and Geneva Overholser, the whip-smart director of the School of Journalism at the USC Annenberg School.
In Herms’ Way
N
ew York’s Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, helmed by trumpet man and jazz history buff Wynton Marsalis, swings into Walt Disney Concert Hall on Feb. 15. This big band ensemble is packed with instrumental heavyweights, and they’ll pay tribute to composing icons such as Duke Ellington and Charles Mingus. But this show isn’t just for the straight up jazz heads. Marsalis will lead the band in their rendition of the finale to Antonin Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 and they’ll do Leonard Bernstein’s Times Square 1944 too. It’s OK to start tapping your foot now.
Radio Gaga
T
he Central Library’s Aloud program, which has become a local treasure thanks to its free high-profile
T
he phrase “free-jazz opera” might send some running for the hills. However, that line will herald good things on Feb. 3-5, when prominent local assemblage artist George Herms takes over REDCAT for three performances of a show titled The Artist’s Life. The event (one time where the word fits) will feature a seven-piece orchestra led by Bobby Bradford and a number of Herms’ large-scale sculptural instruments, along with recorded video. The libretto comes from the diary entries and notes Herms has crafted over 50 years.
I
t’s got a website, a pair of cool historic buildings near the birthplace of the city, and it opens on April 15, 2011. The Plaza de Cultura y Artes is a 2.2-acre facility that will focus on the Mexican-American experience in
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t may sound like an X-Box video game or perhaps a Norwegian death metal band, but God of Carnage is a lot of fun. Really. The Tony-award winning play looks at what happens when a schoolyard fight leads to a verbal beat-down between two “civilized” couples who get together to discuss the battle between their kids. It comes from French playwright Yasmina Reza, who earlier had a hit with the equally talky Art. The show runs at the Ahmanson Theatre April 17-May 29.
A Taste of Italy
L
ocated in the Italian Hall, an easy to overlook building at El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, the Italian Museum is slated to open sometime in 2011. If and when it does (things at El Pueblo have a habit of encountering delays), it will highlight the history of Italian Americans with art exhibitions, a research archive and a multimedia center. It will also host lectures, festivals, meetings and other community events. The city is contemplating naming the facility the Joseph R. Cerrell Italian American Museum, after the late political consultant and museum supporter.
Dance From Holland. Isn’t That Veird?
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Los Angeles and Southern California. The $20 million facility will open in the renovated Vickrey-Brunswig Building and Plaza House on Main Street and will feature 30,000 square feet of public gardens with an outdoor stage and a performance space holding 1,500 people. The inaugural exhibition will be titled L.A. Starts Here! and will highlight the role of Mexicans and Mexican Americans in the founding of Los Angeles.
W
hen Los Angeles audiences think about dance, Holland is not the first thing that pops to mind (though characters from Goldmember rank high). That will change on March 23see 2011, page 14
14 Downtown News
January 3, 2011
2011 photo by Joris Jan Bos
Continued from page 13
photo by Gary Leonard
Twitter/DowntownNews in 1959 and currently led by Jim Vincent will perform “The Second Person,” choreographed by Crystal Pite, as well as “Silent Screen,” with choreography by Paul Lightfoot and Sol Leon and music by, get this, Philip Glass. Dancing to Philip Glass! Isn’t that veird?
RESTAURANTS
Spice Spice Baby
Mas Good Stuff
B
O
n Jan. 7, 2011, Downtown will get mas Mexican with the opening of Mas Malo. An offshoot of the popular Malo restaurant in Silver Lake, the Downtown outpost will be in a former Clifton’s spot at 515 W. Seventh St. The approximately 275-seat establishment has a main room, a mezzanine and a downstairs area as well. It will include a banquet room and, if it follows its Silver Lake parent, there will be a booming bar scene built around potent margaritas.
Meieran, owner of uber-hip bar The Edison, bought the business at 648 S. Broadway last September. It had been owned by the Clifford family since 1935, and patrons have come to expect the traditional. To that end, Meieran promised to restore the 75-year-old eatery to its original condition while doing some upgrades to the building. Also coming is a nightlife component, with a bar on the upper floors, and a plan to reactivate Clifton’s bakery and keep the restaurant open 24 hours.
Clifton’s Edge
Tiger Attack
C
lifton’s Cafeteria has been a treasured, family owned spot for decades. So many were not sure what to think when Andrew
photo by Gary Leonard
24, when the Nederland Dans Theater returns to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion as part of the Gloria Kaufman Presents Dance at the Music Center season. The acclaimed troupe founded
to the Lazy Ox on San Pedro Street on Jan. 15. Meaning Grill House of the Tiger, the 100-seat establishment will serve izakaya, which is Japanese small plates, prepared by chef Hisa Kawabe, a former Nobu sushi chef. No telling if tiger will actually be served.
ryant Ng, the chef who helped launch Pizzeria Mozza near Melrose, is coming Downtown in mid-January with a Singaporean and Southeast Asian restaurant. Ng and his wife Kim are opening The Spice Table at 114 S. Central Ave., in the former home of Cuba Central. During the day the restaurant will serve Southeast Asian-inspired sandwiches. At night Ng will turn on his wood-burning oven to grill up dishes such as satays and traditional meals including laksa, curries, noodles and his version of Hainanese chicken rice. There will also be a focus on craft beers and wine that will be paired with his dishes.
Mo-Food
D
owntown’s restaurant row will get a delicious and hugely anticipated addition in March when Mo-Chica opens at 514 W. Seventh St. The lauded Peruvian restaurant currently operates out of a stand inside Mercado La Paloma near USC. It will open its 1,800-square-foot space on the ground floor of the Coulter and Mandel Building. It will occupy the spot formerly held by Sandella’s.
Bottoms Up
A
fter opening the hugely successful Lazy Ox Canteen in Little Tokyo, restaurateur Michael Cardenas (shown here) has set his eyes on a new animal: a tiger. Aburiya Toranoko, a Japanese grill house, is scheduled to open next
D
owntowners will have another reason to cross the 110 Freeway when the company Bottomless Inc. reopens the Monty Café at 1222 W. Seventh St. In October an alcohol license for the City West spot was transferred to the company, which includes several experienced nightlife veterans. The doors are still closed and there is no information on an opening day yet.
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Downtown News 15
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LISTINGS EVENTS
ThE ‘DON’T MIss’ LIsT
SPONSORED LISTINGS Live Church LA Club Nokia, 1000 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 4934329 or livechurchla.com. 10 a.m.: Every Sunday, Live Church L.A. takes over the VIP Lounge at Club Nokia, bringing great music, people and inspiring messages.
GO BErzErk, DIG ANNE rIcE AND rEMEMBEr chEAp TrIck by Lauren CampedeLLi, Listings editor | calendar@downtownnews.com
TWO photo by Danny Munoz
Friday, Jan. 7 Club Nokia 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or clubnokia.com. 8 and 11 p.m.; Jan. 8, 8 and 11 p.m.; Jan. 9, 8 p.m.: Cirque Berzerk — the edgy, new face of contemporary circus theatre — offers a dark, sexy phantasmagoric experience. Through Jan. 30.
FILM Downtown Independent 251 S. Main St., (213) 617-1033 or downtownindependent.com. Jan. 8, 7 p.m.-2 a.m.: A tribute to the late Leslie Nielsen with screenings of Naked Gun and Airplane at 8 and 10 p.m., respectively, and rooftop beer pong all night long. IMAX Theater California Science Center, 700 State Drive, (213) 7442019 or californiasciencecenter.org. Through Jan. 27: Featuring nine-time world surfing champion Kelly Slater, The Ultimate Wave Tahiti 3D will immerse audiences in the story of an ocean wave and the lives it impacts and transforms. Hubble 3D takes movie-goers on a journey through distant galaxies to explore the grandeur and mysteries of our celestial surroundings and accompany space-walking astronauts as they attempt the most difficult and important tasks in NASA’s history. Under The Sea 3D explores the exotic waters and creatures of the IndoPacific as well as the impact of climate change on the ocean wilderness.
Continued on next page
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sunday, Jan. 9 MOCA Grand Avenue Ahmanson Auditorium, 250 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-1745 or moca.org. 3 p.m.: In conjunction with Suprasensorial: Experiments in Light, Color and Space, the museum presents a program of film and video introduced by curator Alma Ruiz.
photo by Kevin Rolly
D
o you remember the stories your parents told you? Award-winning actor John Lithgow does, and he wants you to cozy up in the Mark Taper Forum to hear his Stories by Heart. These are childhood favorites handed down generation to generation in his family. This isn’t “Jack and Jill” or “The Three Little Pigs,” but short stories by P.J. Wodehouse and Ring Lardner interspersed with Lithgow’s personal tales as he traces his roots as an actor and storyteller. He spins each story, both the fictional and autobiographical, with peculiar characters, theatricality, humor and charm. The show opens Wednesday, Jan. 5, and runs through Feb. 13 at 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or centertheatregroup.org.
ompany of Angels is the oldest nonprofit professional theater troupe in L.A., and fittingly has its home in the historic Alexandria Hotel. Its ambitious 2011 lineup starts with Fatigued on Thursday, Jan. 6, at 8 p.m. The production features two one-act plays that depict the aftermath of the Iraq War on its veterans. In The Ballad of Sad Young Men, a soldier returns to a childhood haunt on the eve of his redeployment as his friends try to save him from a descent into madness. In Scar Tissue, a vet raises unwanted questions and emotions for the doctor who wants to perform an experimental surgery on him. The show runs through Jan. 23 At 501 S. Spring St., (213) 489-3703 or companyofangels.org.
I
S
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uperstar novelist Anne Rice has famously tackled vampires, mummies, witches and, most recently, angels. But what’s she like in person? Find out on Thursday, Jan. 6, at 8 p.m. when she appears with her writer son Christopher Rice at Colburn School’s Zipper Hall. Christopher is a chip off the block with five New York Times best-selling novels to his credit. Of course, the principal interest is Mama Rice, and expect her to address her literary creations, as well as her recent split from the Catholic church. The appearance is part of the series Live Talks Los Angeles. At 200 S. Grand Ave., (323) 791-2584 or livetalksla.org.
photo by Becket Ghioto
Thursday, Jan. 6 MOCA Grand Avenue Ahmanson Auditorium, 250 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-1745 or moca.org. 7 p.m.: The League of Imaginary Scientists will bring their Evolving Contraption, a morphing art apparatus and stage for interactive adventures, to the museum as part of the Engagement Party series. Live Talks Los Angeles Zipper Hall, Colburn School, 200 S. Grand Ave., (323) 791-2584 or livetalksla.org. 8 p.m.: Best-selling author Anne Rice in conversation with writer Christopher Rice, her son.
L
adies and gentlemen and weirdoes of all ages, step right up for the phantasmagoria that is Cirque Berzerk. With its roots in the Burning Man festival, this edgy, dark and sexy circus is a strange and fantastic mix of Goth, German expressionism, burlesque, Grand Guignol, cabaret, Cirque du Soleil and even a bit of good ole Barnum and Bailey. The event that previously took place under a tent at L.A. State Historic Park reincarnates in a bigger, more spectacular (but no less decadent) way at Club Nokia for a threeweek run beginning Friday, Jan. 7, at 8 and 11 p.m. Don’t be shy, step inside the bizarre big top, but please don’t feed the clowns. Through Jan. 30 at 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or clubnokia.com.
photo by Joan Marcus
Wednesday, Jan. 5 Los Angeles Arts Month Kick-Off Festival Music Center Plaza, 135 N. Grand Ave., laartsmonth.org. Noon-1:30 p.m.: David Hidalgo and Louie Perez of Los Lobos jumpstart a month of multicultural experiences with a free performance on the plaza. People’s Choice Awards Nokia Theatre, 777 Chick Hearn Court, (213) 7636000 or nokiatheatrelalive.com. 6 p.m.: The entertainment awards show by the people, for the people. You can vote and attend.
ONE
Tuesday, Jan. 4 Grammy Museum L.A. Live, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org. 7:30 p.m.: Get schooled in rock ‘n’ roll history with the tuition-free, five-part master class, “What a Long Strange Trip it’s Been: a Review of Rock’s Greatest Decade.” That’s the 1960s, of course. Museum Executive Director Bob Santelli, a former music journalist and college professor, does the teaching. Tuesdays through Feb. 1.
t may be a new year, but we can still show the past a little love, can’t we? Downtown On Ice is doing just that, presenting the best Los Angeles classic rock cover bands on Friday nights from 8-10 p.m. in Pershing Square. On Jan. 7, In Color pays tribute to power-pop stalwarts Cheap Trick. Rekindle “The Flame” by singing and dancing along to “I Want You to Want Me” until the “Dream Police” make you “Surrender” to “Heaven Tonight.” The show is free at 532 S. Olive St., (213) 847-4970 or laparks.org/pershingsquare/.
photo courtesy of In Color
FIVE
Send information and possible Don’t Miss List submissions to calendar@downtownnews.com.
16 Downtown News
Listings Continued from previous page
ROCK, POP & JAZZ Casey’s Irish Pub 613 S. Grand Ave., (213) 629-2353 or bigcaseys.com. Jan. 8, 10 p.m.: Rob Campanella from Brian Jonestown Massacre rides a January residency with side project The Quarter After. Los Angeles Sports Arena 3939 S. Figueroa St., 213/480-3232 or lacoliseumlive.com. Jan. 8, 7:30 p.m.: Taiwanese superstar and fourtime World Music Award winner Jay Chou alights in Exposition Park. Redwood Bar & Grill 316 W. Second St., (213) 680-2600 or theredwoodbar.com. Jan. 2, 10 p.m.: The Pastilles, The Rizlas and The B-Noirs. Jan. 3, 10 p.m.: Phil Alvin and friends, plus the Birdhive Boys make a buzz. Jan. 4, 10 p.m.: Dirty Ed/Bob Cantu(esdays) with Cinderella Motel and Barrio Tiger. Jan. 5, 10 p.m.: Dangerously Sleezy. Jan. 7, 10 p.m.: Kamikaze record release with Sassafras, Spider Problem and The Mo-Odds. Jan. 9, 10 p.m.: The Hi Z’s and Brainspoon on tonight’s plate. Seven Grand 515 W. Seventh St., sevengrand.la. Jan. 4, 10 p.m.: House band The Makers tear it up. The Smell 247 S. Main St., alley between Spring and Main streets, thesmell.org. Jan. 6, 9 p.m.: Peter and the Wolf, Moses Campbell and Black Jesus. Jan. 7, 9 p.m.: High Places, Ghost Animal, Butchy Fuego and David Scott Stone. Jan. 8, 9 p.m.: John Thill, Comfort Slacks, Treasure Mammal and I.E., that is. The Varnish 118 E. Sixth St., (213) 622-9999 or thevarnishbar.com Jan. 3, 9 p.m.: Jamie Elman tinkles the keys jazzstyle. Jan. 4, 9 p.m.-1 a.m.: Jazzman Mark Bosserman entertains on the house piano every Tuesday.
CLASSICAL MUSIC Thursday, Jan. 6 Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or musiccenter.org. 8 p.m.; Jan. 7-8, 8 p.m.; Jan. 9, 2 p.m.: Gustavo Dudamel conducts Bernstein, Beethoven and Adams for the LA Philharmonic, featuring mezzosoprano Kelley O’Connor.
THEATER, OPERA & DANCE Bob Baker’s Nutcracker The Bob Baker Marionette Theater, 1345 W. First St., (213) 250-9995 or bobbakermarionettes.com. Jan. 3-7, 10:30 a.m.; Jan. 8-9, 2:30 p.m.: The marionette version of the holiday ballet classic returns, featuring every style of puppetry from marionettes to shadow puppets, from Sugarplum Fairies to the Mouse King. Through Jan. 16. Fatigued Company of Angels, Alexandria Hotel, 501 S. Spring St., (213) 489-3703 or companyofangels.org. Opening Jan. 6: Two one-act plays, The Ballad of Sad Young Men and Scar Tissue, depict the aftermath of the Iraqi War on its veterans. Through Jan. 23. Ken Roht’s Same-O, A 99¢ Only Electric Ballad Bootleg Theater, 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.com. Jan. 6-8, 8 p.m.; Jan. 9, 3 p.m.: Costumes, sets and moving sculptures in this progressive multimedia event incorporate traditional 99¢ Only Store fare in a musical that follows two very different young men. Through Jan. 30. La Razón Blindada 24th Street Theatre, 1117 West 24th St., 213-745-6516 or 24thstreet.org. Jan. 8, 8 p.m.: Argentine playwright/director Aristides Vargas infuses Cervantes’ classic novel El Quijote with Franz Kafka’s The Truth About Sancho Panza and testimonies by Chicho Vargas and other political prisoners held in the 1970s during Argentina’s dictatorship. Two political prisoners, oppressed by physical and emotional abuse, find solace in meeting every Sunday at dusk to tell the story of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza. Through Jan. 29. Stories by Heart Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 6282772 or centertheatregroup.org. Opening Jan. 4, 8 p.m.; Jan. 5-7, 8 p.m.; Jan 8, 2:30 and 8 p.m.; Jan. 9, 1 and 6:30 p.m.: Featuring the works of P.G. Wodehouse and Ring Lardner, Tony Award winner John Lithgow tells stories of his
Twitter/DowntownNews youth and of the storytellers who introduced them to him. Through Feb. 13.
MUSEUMS African American Firefighter Museum 1401 S. Central Ave., (213) 744-1730 or aaffmuseum.org. Ongoing: An array of firefighting relics dating to 1924, including a 1940 Pirsch ladder truck, an 1890 hose wagon, uniforms from New York, L.A. County and City of L.A. firefighters, badges, helmets, photographs and other artifacts. Annette Green Perfume Museum FIDM, second floor, 919 S. Grand Ave., (213) 6241200 or fidm.edu. Ongoing: One of a kind, the museum is dedicated to enhancing our understanding the art, culture and science of the olfactory. Originally opened in New York City in 1999, the collection — 2,000 bottles, perfume presentations and documentary ephemera dating from the late 1800s to the present — was donated to FIDM in 2005. Also, “High Style: Perfume and the Haute Couture” features a selection of fragrance bottles and packaging that reflect the many ways that fame inspires design. “Images of Men: A Look Through Fragrance” is a new installation in the Annette Green Fragrance Archive. The bottles and accessories showcased explore how men’s diverse identities and roles are conveyed through the changing designs of the bottles themselves. California African American Museum 600 State Drive, (213) 744-7432 or caamuseum.org. Ongoing: The multi-functional “Gallery of Discovery” offers visitors the opportunity to connect with the lineage of their own family, engage in artistic workshops, educational tours and other programs of historical discoveries. Hear recordings of actual living slaves from the Library of Congress archives and discover stories from the past. California Science Center 700 State Drive, (323) 724-3623 or californiasciencecenter.org. Ongoing: The science center’s permanent exhibits are usually interactive and focus on human innovations and inventions as well as the life processes of living things. The lobby Science Court stays busy with the High Wire Bicycle, a motion-based simulator, the Ecology Cliff Climb and Forty Years of Space Photography. The human body is another big focus: The Life Tunnel aims to show the connections between all life forms, from the single-celled amoeba to the 100-trillion-celled human being. The new Ecosystems exhibit explores how life on our planet is shaped by geophysical and biological processes. Chinese American Museum 425 N. Los Angeles St., (213) 485-8567 or camla.org. Through May 29, 2011: To commemorate the 100th Anniversary of Angel Island, CAM presents an exhibition to honor the history, legacy and unforgettable stories of Angel Island. “Remembering Angel Island” will showcase historic photographs, a reproduction of a poem carved on the barracks of Angel Island, artifacts and a multi-media station featuring personal stories of those who endured or were profoundly affected by the Angel Island experience. Permanent: Re-creation of the Sun Wing Wo, a Chinese general store and herbal shop, and “Journeys: Stories of Chinese Immigration,” an exhibit exploring Chinese immigration to the United States with an emphasis on community settlement in Los Angeles. The display is outlined into four distinct time periods. Each period is defined by an important immigration law and/or event, accompanied by a brief description and a short personal story about a local Chinese American and their experiences in that particular historical period. El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument 124 Paseo de la Plaza, (213) 485-8372 or elpueblo. lacity.org. Ongoing: The whole of El Pueblo is called a “monument,” and of this monument’s 27 historic buildings, four function as museums: the Avila Adobe, the city’s oldest house; the Sepulveda House, home to exhibits and the monument’s Visitors Center; the Fire House Museum, which houses late 19thcentury fire-fighting equipment; and the Masonic Hall, which boasts Masonic memorabilia. Check its website for a full slate of fiestas, including Cinco de Mayo, Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in November and December’s beautiful candlelight procession, Las Posadas. Open daily, though hours at shops and halls vary. Grammy Museum L.A. Live, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org. Ongoing: “John Lennon, Songwriter” will cover some of the musician’s early influences; his time with the Quarrymen and transition into the early Beatles period; his songwriting collaborations with Paul McCartney; and his transition from the Beatles to a solo artist/songwriter and his work with Yoko Ono. Artifacts to be featured include: several guitars, his signature round, wire-framed glasses, original drawings, handwritten song lyrics, historic footage
and much more. Through Jan. 2011: “Strange Kozmic Experience” will explore the lives and cultural footprints of three of America’s greatest musical icons: Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin and The Doors. Through artifacts, films, original art, and photographs, Strange Kozmic Experience will explore the innovations, legacies and continual impact of the artists who defined a generation. Ongoing: “Roland Live” is a permanent installation courtesy of the electronic musical instrument maker, Roland Corporation. The exhibit gives visitors a chance to participate in the music-making process by playing a wide variety of Roland products, from V-Drums and BOSS pedals to VIMA keyboards and the MV-8800 Production Studio. Japanese American National Museum 369 E. First St., (213) 625-0414 or janm.org. Through Apr. 17: “American Tapestry: 25 Stories from the Collection” includes a selection of artifacts, artwork, photographs, oral histories and more from the museum’s collection. Ongoing: “Common Ground: The Heart of Community” chronicles 130 years of Japanese American history, from the early days of the Issei pioneers to the present. The Latino Museum 514 S. Spring St., (213) 626-7600 or thelatinomuseum.com. Ongoing: The Latino Museum holds a unique collection of work from emerging and established contemporary Mexican, Latino and Chicano artists working and living in the United States as well as throughout Latin, Central and South America. Museum of Contemporary Art, Grand Avenue 250 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-2766 or moca.org. Through Jan. 31, 2011: “The Artist’s Museum” showcases the works by over 140 artists who have helped shape the artistic dialogue in Los Angeles since the founding of MOCA over 30 years ago. The exhibition represents the diversity and uniqueness of the L.A. community, and highlights important works from legendary artists alongside those emerging from renowned local art schools, visionary artists associated with various street cultures and subcultures, and crossover artists connected to performance, music, and film. Permanent: Nancy Rubins’ cheekily and comprehensively titled “Chas’ Stainless Steel, Mark Thompson’s Airplane Parts, About 1000 Pounds of Stainless Steel Wire, Gagosian’s Beverly Hills Space, at MOCA (2001-2002)” is a monumental sculpture made out of parts of an airplane. Museum of Contemporary Art, The Geffen Contemporary 152 N. Central Ave., (213) 621-2766 or moca.org. Through Jan. 31, 2011: Based on MOCA’s worldrenowned permanent collection, “The Artist’s Museum” showcases the finest contemporary works produced by Los Angeles artists from 1980 to the present day. Through Feb. 27: “Suprasensorial: Experiments in Light, Color, and Space” situates pioneering Latin American artists among the international canon of those working with light and space: Carlos CruzDiez, Lucio Fontana, Julio Le Parc, Helio Oiticica and Jesus Rafael Soto. Museum of Neon Art 136 W. Fourth St., (213) 489-9918 or neonmona.org. The museum is dedicated to the preservation, collection, education and interpretation of the neon arts. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 763–3466 or nhm.org. Ongoing: “Age of Mammals” tells an epic evolutionary story that spans 65 million years. But its theme can be distilled into just six words: Continents move. Climates change. Mammals evolve. Ongoing: The spectacular Humboldt fin whale specimen, “Finwhale Passage,” features the 63-footlong specimen, which weighs more than 7,000 pounds and has been re-articulated to create a more realistic impression of the living animal. An intriguing sound installation and interactive visitor components will accompany the display, which is one of the best and most complete large-whale articulations in the world. Ongoing: The “Dino Lab” is a working paleontological lab, wherein museum preparators will work on a several dinosaur and other fossil creature skeletons for future display at the museum. Wells Fargo History Museum 333 S. Grand Ave., (213) 253-7166 or wellsfargohistory.com. Ongoing: Take in an Old West exhibit including a faux 19th-century Wells Fargo office, a real-life Concord stagecoach that once traversed windy southern Kentucky roads and a gold nugget weighing in at a shocking two pounds.
BARS & CLUBS The Association 610 S. Main St., (213) 627-7385. Carved out of the area that used to belong to Cole’s, the bar in front, the Association is a dimly-lit,
January 3, 2011 swank little alcove with some serious mixologists behind the bar. Look for a heavy door, a brass knocker, and a long line. Banquette 400 S. Main St., (213) 626-2768. This petite cafe and wine bar with its red and white striped awning has become a popular hangout for casual evenings of drinking wine and meeting up with friends. During monthly Art Walks on the second Thursday of the month, Banquette buzzes with almost every kind of Downtown denizen you could imagine. They have a small but lovely selection of wines by the glass as well as beers. Barbara’s at the Brewery 620 Moulton Ave., No. 110, (323) 221-9204 or bwestcatering.com. On the grounds of the Brewery, this bar and restaurant in an unfinished warehouse is where local residents find their artistic sustenance. Fifteen craft beers on tap, wine list and full bar. Bar 107 107 W. Fourth St., (213) 625-7382 or myspace.com/ bar107. Inside the keyhole-shaped door, tough-as-nails Derby Dolls vie for elbowroom with crusty old bar guys and a steady stream of Old Bank District inhabitants. Velvet señoritas, deer heads with sunglasses, a wooden Indian and Schlitz paraphernalia plaster the red walls. There’s no shortage of entertainment, with the funky dance room, great DJs and the occasional rock band. In the photo booth, you can capture your mug in old-fashioned black and white. Located just two blocks east of the Pershing Square Metro stop, Bar 107 is open from 3 p.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week. Big Wang’s 801 S. Grand Ave., (213) 629-2449 or bigwangs.com. Wings, beer and sports: That’s the winning recipe at this sports bar. The Downtown outpost, the third for the Hollywood-based bar, has everything the other locations have, plus a comfortable patio with outdoor flat screens. Bonaventure Brewing Company 404 S. Figueroa St., (213) 236-0802 or bonaventurebrewing.com. Where can you get a drink, order some decent bar food, sit outdoors and still feel like you’re Downtown? It’s a tall order to fill, but this bar in the Bonaventure Hotel does it admirably. Come by for a taster set of award-winning ales crafted by Head Brewer David Blackwell. Sure, the hotel is vaguely ’80s, and you’ll probably encounter some convention goers tying a few on, but it only adds to the fun. Bona Vista Lounge 404 S. Figueroa St., (213) 624-1000 or thebonaventure.com. Located in the heart of the Financial District in the landmark Westin Bonaventure Hotel, this revolving cocktail lounge offers a 360-degree view of the city. Bordello 901 E. First St., (213) 687-3766 or bordellobar.com. If the name doesn’t clue you in, a sultry voiced “madam” on the answering machine lets you know Bordello isn’t exactly for the buttoned-up crowd. This onetime house of ill repute has shed its most recent life as Little Pedro’s with a gussied up interior oozing sex appeal — lush scarlet velvet, ornate black chandeliers and heart-shaped chairs in hidden alcoves. Bottlerock 1150 S. Flower St., (213) 747-1100 or bottlerock.net. Situated on the groundfloor of the Met Lofts in South Park, this wine bar features a vast range of bottles from around the world and a price range equally as wide. Wines by the glass start at around $8, but if you’re feeling overcome by oenophilia (or just deep-pocketed) there are some first growth Bordeauxs for more than $1,000 for the bottle. And if you don’t get your fill while at the bar, which also features a rotating crop of artisanal beers and a full dinner menu, the bar also sells bottles at retail. Broadway Bar 830 S. Broadway, (213) 614-9909 or broadwaybar.la. Located next to the Orpheum Theatre in the Platt Building, the Broadway Bar’s blue neon sign beckons patrons inside to its 50-foot circular bar. The casualchic spot is based on Jack Dempsey’s New York bar, with low lighting and a dose of ’40s glam. There’s a patio upstairs with nice views, and a jukebox. Caña Rum Bar at the Doheny 714 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 745-7090 or canarumbar.com. In the Caribbean, “caña” is slang for sugarcane. Rum is made from sugarcane. Therefore, Caña Rum Bar at the Doheny serves premium handcrafted rum cocktails in an intimate, elegant environment featuring live Caribbean and tropical Latin music. Casa 350 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-2249 or casadowntown.com. There’s a classy bar inside, from whence you can check out the action in the transparent kitchen and behind the bar, as the bartenders craft their freshjuiced margaritas. But the place to be is outside, under the stars and high-rises, nestled in one of the patio’s pod “casitas.”
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Casey’s Irish Pub 613 S. Grand Ave., (213) 629-2353 or bigcaseys.com. With its worn brick staircase, tin ceilings and dark wood decor, it’s easy to see how this neighborhood bar and grill still works its Irish charm. Regulars cozy up to the 60-foot mahogany bar with a pint of Guinness and a plate of bangers and mash. Casey’s has a full menu with six beers on tap and a selection of Belgian ales and microbrews. Cicada Club 617 S. Olive St., (213) 488-9488 or cicadarestaurant.com. Every Sunday, the restaurant is transformed into a vintage, old Hollywood-style dance club, with a big band, swank costumes, dinner and cocktails (visit cicadaclub.com). Club 740 740 S. Broadway, (213) 225-5934 or 740la.com. This 1920s theater has been transformed into a three-level party playground sprawling over 40,000 square feet. Club 740 is a spectacle with ornate gold balconies, go-go dancers and private skybox lounges. Music includes hip-hop, Latin vibe, Top 40 and indie rock. Cole’s 118 E. Sixth St., colesfrenchdip.com. This beloved restaurant saloon has been renovated under new ownership. The great leather booths
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and dark wood bar of the old spot remain, but now the glasses are clean. Draft beer, historic cocktails, and a short wine list. Corkbar 403 W. 12th St., corkbar.com. If the name didn’t give it away, this South Park establishment is all about the wine, specifically, California wine. Situated on the groundfloor of the Evo condominium building, Corkbar serves up a seasonal food menu of farmer’s market-driven driven creations to go with your Golden State pinots, cabernets and syrahs. The Down and Out 501 S. Spring St., (213) 489-7800 or twitter.com/ thedownandout. This latest offering from the same folks that brought you Bar 107. The 3,000-square-foot space on the ground floor of the Alexandria Hotel features mug shots of celebrities including Frank Sinatra, Hugh Grant, Steve McQueen and Andy Dick. The owners describe it as a sports bar for local residents who don’t want to mingle with tourists. Eastside Luv 1835 E. First St., (323) 262-7442 or eastsideluv.com. A stone’s throw from Mariachi Plaza and all that Metro Line construction, this tucked-away spot features Mexican movie posters on the wall, good beer on tap, regular sangria, live bands, and different from anything to its west, no attitude. e3rd 734 E. Third St., (213) 680-3003 or eastthird.com. This Asian-style steakhouse with an artsy flavor features a sleek lounge with low, circular tables and a long psychedelic bar that changes colors like a mood ring. There’s a full bar, inventive cocktails (including soju) and a reasonable wine list. DJs spin. Edison 108 W. Second St., (213) 613-0000 or edisondowntown.com. Downtown history has come full circle in this former power plant turned stunning cocktail bar. The Edison is perhaps Downtown’s hottest hotspot and draws an eclectic crowd, including jaded Hollywood types who can’t help but gawk at the preserved bits of machinery, the huge generator and the coal box that now houses the jukebox. Far Bar 347 E. First St., (behind the Chop Suey Café), (213) 617-9990 or chopsueycafeandlounge.com.
Tucked behind the Chop Suey Café is the Far Bar, where intimacy and a sense of noir L.A. collide. If you can find the place, which you enter through the back of the café or via a skinny alley a few doors down, you can throw them back in the same spot author Raymond Chandler is rumored to have done the same. Figueroa Hotel 939 S. Figueroa St., (213) 627-8971 or figueroahotel.com. The Moroccan-inspired Figueroa Hotel just a block north of Staples Center manages the unique feat of making you feel like you’re in the heart of the city and removed from it at the same time. The light-filled Veranda Bar is just steps from the clear, glittery pool, and it’s common to see suit-clad Downtowners a few feet from swimsuit-wearing Euro-tourists. Five Stars Bar 269 S. Main St., (213) 625-1037. Burgers, brew, billiards, art and live music. Cash only, amigos. Gallery Bar Millennium Biltmore Hotel Los Angeles, 506 S. Grand Ave., (213) 624-1011 or millenniumhotels.com. This elegant lounge in the Millennium Biltmore Hotel is known for its martinis, wines and vintage ports. Genji Bar Kyoto Grand Hotel and Gardens, 120 Los Angeles St., (213) 253-9255 or kyotograndhotel.com. The Genji Bar offers a hip, private karaoke room that you and a dozen or so of your friends can rent for about $10 a piece. It’s got new songs, old songs, odd songs and songs that you wish no one would sing. It also means you can warble “Sweet Home Alabama” all you want without the agonizing wait. Golden Gopher 417 W. Eighth St., (213) 614-8001 or goldengopherbar.com. This stylish, dimly lit space with exposed brick walls, chandeliers and golden gopher lamps has a rockin’ jukebox, cheap Pabst Blue Ribbon and an outdoor lounge for smokers. Best of all, it also has Ms. Pac Man and Galaga. The bar also has a rare take-out liquor counter. Grand Star Jazz Club 943 Sun Mun Way, (213) 626-2285 or
grandstarjazzclub.com. Firecracker club heats things up every other Friday atop the Quon Brothers’ Grand Star. Start the evening at the latter, where the lapu lapus are wicked strong. There’s usually alternating karaoke and a good jazz trio. Upstairs you’ll find the hip-hop haven known as Firecracker, a longtime dance club with good music and an eclectic, lively crowd. Hop Louie 950 Mei Ling Way (Central Plaza), (213) 628-4244. This is old school Chinatown, on the ground floor of the Hop Louie Restaurant, with slightly indifferent bartenders and décor — it’s actually a relief. J Restaurant & Lounge 1119 S. Olive St., (213) 746-7746 or jloungela.com. Once the site of the historic Little J’s, this South Park lounge a stone’s throw from Staples Center now offers signature cocktails, cigars, beer and about 20 wines by the glass. The sprawling space is highlighted by a 10,000-square-foot outdoor patio featuring cozy cabanas, a glowing fire pit and a 30foot granite bar. Happy hour is from 5 p.m. until sunset all summer long.
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.
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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!
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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.
January 3, 2011
Downtown News 19
DowntownNews.com
Business Attorney All Litigation Matters Transactions & Contracts 20 Years Experience Ivy League Background
Paul Bloom, Esq. (805) 984-8375 Health NOT FEELING any joy? Overwhelmed by stress and emotional overload? Professional counseling helps! www.drannewarman.vpweb. com, Downtown Wilshire Office, reasonable rates, insurance accepted, 310-281-9797. Education ATTEND COLLEGE Online from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified. Call 888-210-5162 www.Centura.us.com. (Cal-SCAN) HIGH SCHOOL Diploma! Graduate in 4 weeks! Free Brochure. Call Now! 1-866-562-3650 ext. 60 www.SouthEasternHS.com. (Cal-SCAN)
ADVERTISE YOUR Home, property or business for sale in 240 California newspapers. Reach over 6 million readers for Only $550! Call this newspaper or visit: www.CAL-SCAN.com. (Cal-SCAN) ADVERTISE YOUR Job Opening in 240 California newspapers. Reach over 6 million readers for only $550! Call this newspaper or visit: www.Cal-SCAN.com. (Cal-SCAN) DISPLAY ADVERTISING in 140 Cal-SDAN newspapers statewide for $1,550! Reach over 3 million Californians! Free email brochure. Call (916) 288-6019. www.Cal-SDAN.com. (CalSCAN) Cleaning CONCEPTO’S CLEANING Crew. Professional, experienced, cleans apartments, homes, offices and restaurants. Call for a quote. 323-459-3067 or 818-409-9183.
2007 AUDI A6 Low miles. Loaded! Manager special. # 151076 vin ZA9770 $26,815 Call 888583-0981
For a complete list of our pre-owned inventory, go to www.DTLAMOTORS.com
2007 MERCEDES BENZ C230 Stock CU0298P vin 926270 Extra clean! $20,883 call 888-2032967.
Autos Wanted
2007 MERCEDES BENZ ML350 Pewter/Black, 3.5 Liter, leather, $28,999 4JGBB86E77A260898 Call 888-319-8762. 2007 VOLKSWAGEN EOS Certified. Manager special. #ZV986 vin 007390 $20,464 Call 888781-8102.
DONATE YOUR Vehicle! Receive Free Vacation Voucher. United Breast Cancer Foundation. Free Mammograms, Breast Cancer Info www.ubcf.info Free Towing, Tax Deductible, NonRunners Accepted, 1-888-4685964. (Cal-SCAN)
2008 PORSCHE 911 Targa 4 Tiptronic, Bose, Navigation, only 27K miles, certified, #745077. $72,988. Call 888-685-5426.
DONATE YOUR CAR: Children’s Cancer Fund! Help Save A Child’s Life Through Research & Support! Free Vacation Package. Fast, Easy & Tax Deductible. Call 1-800-252-0615. (CalSCAN)
2009 NISSAN ALTIMA 2.5S Certified, air with power pkg # NI3609 / 9N487053 $14,999, call 888-838-5089.
We've got what you're searching for! DowntownNews.com
ITEMS FOR SALE
WANTED DIABETIC Test Strips. Cash Paid. Unopened, Unexpired Boxes Only. All Brands Considered. Help others, don’t throw boxes away. For more information, Call 888-491-1168. (Cal-SCAN)
Clothing/Jewelry Men’s Medium Hot Air Sweater. Moon Gray. $30 with this ad only. Brand new with tags. 818.304.1995
Volunteer Opportunities
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Helping kids heal. Free Arts for Abused Children is looking for volunteers to integrate the healing power of the arts into the lives of abused and at-risk children and their families. Today is the day to get involved! Contact Annie at volunteers@freearts. org or 310-313-4278 for more information.
Notices WANTED- COMIC Books, sports & non sports gum cards. Magazines, sports, movies anything pre 1975. Please call Mike: 1-800-723-5572. $ Paid. Happy New Year. (Cal-SCAN)
Start Your Own Business just
99
$
(323) 829-2434 Aromaticbliss.Scentsy.us
WORLD GUITAR Show, Buy, Sell, Trade. Marin Civic/San Rafael, January 8-9. OC Fair/ Event/Costa Mesa, January 1516. Saturdays 10-5, Sundays 10-4. www.TXShows.com Clip this ad! (Cal-SCAN)
CHURCHES THE BRIDGE / Little Tokyo: Contemporary worship, 4:00pm Sundays, 401 E Third St. www. thebridgewired.org.
The Downtown Renaissance Collection
AUTOS PRE-OWNED
Be Inspired...
Downtown L.A. AUTO GROUP
Business Services
Musical Instruments
Porsche Volkswagen Audi Mercedes-Benz Nissan chevrolet cadillac
Best Downtown Locations!
2005 BMW 330CIC Convertible, Low Mileage, White/Black stk # uc459-1/PL52952 $17,887 Call 888-879-9608.
On Spring St.
Premiere Towers:
2 bdrm/2 bath, $1600/mo • Rooftop garden terrace/ GYM w/city view • 24 hr. doorman • Free (1) parking
City Lofts:
I c o n i c B e au t y S e e k s S t y l i s h M at e
1000 sqft, 16ft ceilings, $1950/mo. w/2nd level bedroom • Stainless steel appliances/refrigerator etc. • Pet friendly We are located in a prime area in Downtown LA nice neighborhood w/ salon, market, café etc. Wired for high speed internet & cable, central heat & A/C
Please call 213.627.6913 www.cityloftsquare.com
Elegant World Class Resort Apartment Homes
Orsini 550 NORTH FIGUEROA ST.
877-231-9362
WWW.THEORSINI.COM
Medici 725 SOUTH BIXEL ST.
877-239-8256
WWW.THEMEDICI.COM
Piero 616 ST. PAUL AVE.
877-235-6012
WWW.THEPIERO.COM
Visconti 1221 WEST THIRD ST.
866-690-2888
WWW.THEVISCONTI.COM
FREE Rent Specials On Select Floor Plans NOW LEASING
$1,400’s/Mo. Free Parking ROOFTOP GARDEN RETREAT WITH BBQ AND LOUNGE GRAND LOBBY • FITNESS CENTER • SPA MODERN KITCHEN w/CAESAR COUNTERTOPS HIGH SPEED INTERNET DESIGNER LIVING SPACES • PET FRIENDLY • DRAMATIC VIEWS WALKING DISTANCE TO RALPHS SUPERMARKET
Downtown Los Angeles Brentwood y Century City Woodland Hills Downtown Los Angeles Brentwood y Century City Woodland Hills
756 S. Broadway • Downtown Los Angeles 213-892-9100 • chapmanf lats.com Pricing subject to change without notice.
Bristol Apartments
Studio apartment now leasing 423 West 8th Street
All Utilities paid
Accepting applications until 1/6/2011
low income | $662/month income qualifications - under $46,400/year
213-228-3000
All applications can either be mailed in or dropped off to: 206 West 6th st., la ca 90014 or 423 west 8th st., la ca 90014
Fully furnished with TV, telephone, microwave, refrigerator. Full bathroom. Excellent location. Downtown LA. Weekly maid service.
Furnished single unit with kitchenette, bathroom. Excellent location. Downtown LA. Weekly rate $275 inc.
Monthly from $595 utilities paid. (213) 627-1151 Monthly from $550 utilities paid. (213) 612-0348
Beautiful Fully Furnished Offices Starting at $500 y Flexible Terms y Corporate ID Programs Beautiful Fully FurnishedAvailable Offices Starting at $500 y Flexible Terms y Corporate ID Programs Available Services Include:
Reception y Mail y Fiber Optic Internet y TelephoneServices & Voice Include: Mail y West Law y Reception y& Mail Optic Internet y Photocopy FaxyyFiber Video Conferencing Telephone & Voice Mail y West Law y Photocopy & Fax y Video Conferencing
Additional Features: Kitchen Additional Facilities, Mail/Copy Features: Room, Conference Rooms, Mail/Copy Spectacular Views, Kitchen Facilities, Room, Fully Trained Staff Views, Conference Rooms, Spectacular Fully Trained Staff
JENNY AHN JENNY AHN (213) 996-8301
(213) 996-8301
laleads@regentbc.com
laleads@regentbc.com
www.regentbc.com
www.regentbc.com
• Free Resident/Guest Parking in Gated Garage • Private Library, Business Center & Conference Rooms • Free Wi-Fi & DSL Computer Use • Resident Karaoke Lounge • Directors Screening Room • Lavish Fountains & Sculptures • On-Site Private Resident Park with Sand Volleyball, BBQ’s and Jogging Track • Night Light Tennis Courts • Indoor Basketball
Casaloma2 L.A. Apartments Version Clean unfurnished bachelor rooms with shared bath at $550/mo. with private bath at $695/mo.
Adolescent support group now forming Ages 13-17 Low fee Call Marney Stofflet, LCSW
(323) 662-9797
4344 Fountain Ave. (at Sunset), Suite A Los Angeles, CA 90029
*Amenities vary among communities
legal notice PRE-SOLICITATION NOTICE REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ)
1ST ANDG.H. BOYLE LIVE/WORK MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT Client: Palmer Associates Sec. Deposit Special @$100 SITE DISTRICT 14 AND THE CRA/LA ADELANTE LADT News Includes utilities, basicPublication: cable EASTSIDE REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREA channels, laundry room on site. Size/Color: 4.3125” x 8” 4C Gated building in a good area. 208 W. 14th St. at Hill St. Downtown LA
For English Call Pierre Design or Terri 213.744.9911 For Spanish Call Susana 213.749.0306
Is your teen experiencing:
• School problems? • Conflict at home or with friends?
• Brunswick Four-Lane Virtual Bowling • Full Swing Virtual Golf • 3100 Square Foot Cybex Fitness Facility • Free Tanning Rooms • Massage Room, Sauna & Steam Room • Rooftop Pools with Dressing Rooms • Concierge Service • 24-Hour Doorman • 24/7 On-Site Management • Magnificent City Views
madison hotel Clean furnished single rooms. 24-hour desk clerk service. •Daily, $30.00 •Weekly, $109.00 •Monthly, $310.00 (213) 622-1508 423 East 7th St.
(2 blocks west of San Pedro St.) Starting Jan. 1, 2011
DowntownNews.com
RFQ No. EA - 2190
The Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Los Angeles (“CRA/ seeks development qualifications from qualified experienced firms by: LA”) apluscreative@yahoo.com Ph: 323.474.4668 and development teams to establish their eligibility for the purchase and construction of a live/work mixed-use transit-oriented development (“TOD”) project. Consisting of market rate housing and commercial opportunities, the TOD project will be constructed on a one-third acre CRA/ LA-owned parcel located at the southeast corner of 1st Street and Boyle Avenue in the CRA/LA Adelante Eastside Redevelopment Project Area within Council District 14. By promoting mixed-use TOD and integrating neighborhoods, the Project aims to attract new uses and serve local residents as a catalyst for a reinvigorated Boyle Heights community. The RFQ, No. EA - 2190, is anticipated to be available for direct downloading only on the CRA/LA Website at www.crala.org on or after December 20, 2010. To be included as registered respondents, or to register your contact information for future notices and solicitations, please send an expression of your interest by email to Christine Kalamaros at ckalamaros@ cra.lacity.org. 1/3/11 CNS-2009559# DOWNTOWN NEWS
20 Downtown News
January 3, 2011
Twitter/DowntownNews
We Got Games A Big Homestand for the Kings Los Angeles Lakers Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7100 or nba.com/lakers. Jan. 4 and 7, 7:30 p.m.; Jan. 9, 6:30 p.m.: The Lakers start the week hosting the lowly Detroit Pistons, then head off to tangle with the always pesky Phoenix Suns. The Suns have a new look with a trio of ex-Magic players, including Vince Carter and his occasional scoring outbursts. Then it’s back home to play Chris Paul and the New Orleans Hornets, who also bring along old friend Trevor Ariza. The Lakers close the week hosting Amar’e Stoudemire and the suddenly relevant New York Knicks. Los Angeles Clippers Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7100 or nba.com/clippers.
Jan. 2, 12:30 p.m.; Jan. 5, 7:30 p.m.; Jan. 9, 12:30 p.m.: The Clippers host Joe Johnson and the Atlanta Hawks to kick off the week, then welcome the always tough (and always fun to watch) Denver Nuggets. The Clips finally seemed to gel last month, largely on the strength of Blake Griffin, who would be a lock for rookie of the year if they gave the award out in January. In a Sunday matinee, the struggling yet exciting (in a Monta Ellis, Stephen Curry way) Golden State Warriors come to town. Los Angeles Kings Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., 1 (888) KINGS-LA or kings.nhl.com. Jan. 3, 6 p.m.; Jan. 6, 8 p.m.; Jan. 10, 7:30 p.m.: Anze Kopitar and the Kings settle in for the meat of their eight-game homestand, starting the week off against the defending champion Chicago Blackhawks. This should be a feisty rematch of sorts after the ’Hawks beat the Kings by a goal in Chicago in December. After that, the Predators come to town, followed by the Blue Jackets and the Maple Leafs. —Ryan Vaillancourt
photo by Gary Leonard
Anze Kopitar and the Kings settle in for eight straight home games and look for revenge against the Blackhawks.
Downtown, it’s not just big business anymore!
Grand Tower 255 south Grand avenue Leasing Information 213 229 9777
Promenade Towers 123 south Figueroa street Leasing Information 213 617 3777
Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Concierge ~ Pool / Spa / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Gas BBQ Grills ~ Recreation Room
Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Pool / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Covered Parking
Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove, Microwave & Dishwasher (most units) ~ Central Air Conditioning & Heating ~ Balconies (most units)
On-site: ~ Dry Cleaners / Dental Office / Restaurants
Now For Call n Specials Move-I
8 7 7 - 2 65 - 714 6
museum Tower 225 south olive street Leasing Information 213 626 1500
Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove & Dishwasher ~ Central Air & Heating ~ Solariums and/or Balconies
On Site: ~ Convenience Store / Coffee House / Yogurt Shop / Beauty Salon
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)
It’s our business to make you comfortable... at home, downtown. Corporate and long term residency is accommodated in high style at the Towers Apartments. Contemporary singles, studio, one 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 with kitchen. Beautiful views extend from the Towers’ lofty homes in the sky. Mountain vistas and slender skyscrapers provide an incredible back drop to complement your decor. Far below are a host of businesses 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.
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