LOS ANGELES
DOWNTOWN
NEWS
Trying the Nickel
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A condo auction update, and other happenings Around Town. The List: All the important details on Downtown’s jewelry buildings.
W W W. D O W N T O W N N E W S . C O M
February 2, 2009
Volume 38, Number 5
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Angels Flight Closure Hits Eight Years
INSIDE
Operator Says Railway, Which Has Missed Multiple Reopening Goals, Will Return ‘Very Soon’ by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR
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New plans for the Stock Exchange.
hen Filomena Eriman saw Olivet and Sinai, the two cars that run on the tracks of Angels Flight, back on the railway late last year, she thought the eight-year wait was finally over. As the general manager of Grand Central Market, Eriman has heard many of her tenants complain about the loss of business that followed the closure of Angels Flight — the short, historic railroad that connected Bunker Hill to the Historic Core — after a fatal accident in 2001. Many of the old customers who work on Bunker Hill are not willing
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Urban Scrawl celebrates Groundhog Day.
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to make the 153-step climb to and from the market for lunch, especially when the walk back up occurs on a hot Los Angeles day. “When we saw it moving one weekend we were so happy. We thought it was finally going to be opening,” Eriman said. But the happiness was short-lived, as the eighth anniversary of the closing of Angels Flight arrived on Feb. 1. Now, the funicular’s operator says the railway will return to action “very soon,” though an opening has been promised many times before. The situation is sparking concern and displeasure among many see Angels Flight, page 8
The Worst Original Developer Out of Santee Village Election Ever
L.A. Live loses its general manager.
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Weinstein Replaced by ConnecticutBased Lender in Fashion District Project by anna Scott Staff wRiteR
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he developer of Santee Village, one of Downtown’s biggest housing efforts, has bowed out of the struggling project. MJW Investments President Mark Weinstein, who opened the first phase of the massive Fashion District complex in 2004, said last week that Downtown’s largest adaptive reuse development is now in the hands of the Connecticut-based Patriot Group, an MJW lender. “It didn’t make economic sense for
Counting Downtown’s homeless population.
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How to see big artists on a small stage.
Love 16 Means A box of chocolates, a dozen roses and your message in Downtown News.
February 11, 2008
SearchDowntownLA.com
LOVE LINES
Hi Sexy!...Just wanted to say I love you so much!... Mary
LA Live…Will you marry me?…Downtown
Valentine, love you…Mommy
Economy…We’ll be together for better or for worse, we’ve seen the worse, now lets make it better…L.A. Consumer
Mr. & Mrs. Roberts…Wedding anniversary! Best wishes, Norman and Jona-Labaton Roberts!...Love, Titalib
Manny Ramirez…Please don’t leave me… Dodger Fan
Larry & Lucita Geronca…Kaitulari’s families by consanguinity, affinity and choice respect you… Love, Geronca Family
401K…I miss you…Everyone 3YO HPCSG…You are the best secret partner ever…Love, JJ Joanie…Loves forever on Valentine’s Day, our Bea andper Lavireader.) DD…Thanks for all your support you Wedding Day…Love Sunny(Limited Day to one FREE message rock…Love, Boysie Jackie, My Sweetie Pie…I can never imagine my life without you. Your beautiful smile makes my C & H…Sugar and spice is nice, but your sauce is thrice…JS day. Happy Valentine’s Day!...Love, Mommy
The First 12 Words Are FREE!
My ne Valenti
Love Line
Daisy, My Baby Cakes…Thank you for all your and kisses! I look forward to them every day. Happy Valentine’s Day!...Love, Mommy
Print type love,or hugs
Grandma Gloria…Es un orgullo tener una Abuelita tan especial como tu. Happy Valentine’s Day. We love you…Jackie y Daisy Mama…I love you! Let’s scare the cat and go to the park!...Vivian To the little one Catherine Navas…You are the only one!...Steven
Message:
Rodrigo…Te amo mucho papito. Tu me haces muy feliz…Tu Gaviota Yvonne, Joie, Justine…Happy Valentine’s Day, you are my life…Love, Daddy LaDonna…Hi baby, love you much…Al
Free up to here
I want to be with you forever. Will you marry me, Crystal?...Adriane James…At last my love has come along…Not Etta Continue on another
Jimmo & Terry Moreno…You’re accommodating, loving and much loved by everyone…Me Citlalit Corona…You are my inspiration and shinning star, I love you…Wendy
The first 12 words are free.
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by Jon ReGaRdie executive editoR
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hen it comes to election margins, there are victories and there are landslides. Then there is the kind of result, which might charitably be called “democracy,” that occurs THE REGARDIE REPORT
in places like the former Soviet republic of Azerbaijan, where in 2008 incumbent Ilham Aliyev (for the record, the son of the previous leader, Heydar Aliyev) was re-elected with a cozy 88% of the vote.
In less than 30 days, Los Angeles will make the Azerbaijan presidential election look close. In what could turn out to be the worst election in the history of Los Angeles, eight prominent local officeholders are ready to steamroll their way to another term. From the mayor’s “race” on down, and with only a couple of exceptions, Los Angeles’ next exercise in democracy is set to rubber stamp the words “four more years” across the office doors of many of the folks who already run the city. see Election, page 11
Darling Sunny…Thank you for being my husband Robert Bodnar…Through good, bad, happiness Total Words in Joanie Message (first 12 areI still FREE!) andwords sadness, love you…Wendy and rescuer…Love
Name
TB…I wanna singa with you, in the moon-a and the June-a and forever…Your Owl Jolson Address Baby girl!...Love your smiles, shrieks, heart and City Phone
Robert…the most loving husband…Pat Mercy Anne…You are the best sister. Happy Valentine’s Day…Your sister Nicole
Landy, my husband…I can’t imagine life without you, love always…Aarion Emily…You will always be my only Valentine, 1937 to eternity…Bill
Mike…You and me forever we will be. Happy Valentine’s. XOXO…Diane I can’t wait to be your husband this year! I love you Vanna Tran!...8.8.8 Mr. Full Marine…Spend Valentine’s Day/Court with little monkey?...Michelle Alex Santiago…Chris will always love you, hope you are well, God Bless.
LM…Be mine always, here in L.A. or anywhere…
Sara amount enclosed: $ Total (All messages must be prepaid)
Denise Marie Kavialani…You will always be my Valentine, love you…Mommy Mr. & Mrs. Roberts…Wedding anniversary! Best wishes, Norman and Jona-Labaton Roberts!...Love, Titalib Larry & Lucita Geronca…Kaitulari’s families by consanguinity, affinity and choice respect you… Love, Geronca Family Jimmo & Terry Moreno…You’re accommodating, loving and much loved by everyone…Me Citlalit Corona…You are my inspiration and shinning star, I love you…Wendy
Landy, my husband…I can’t imagine life without you, love always…Aarion Emily…You will always be my only Valentine, 1937 to eternity…Bill Disser…Forever you have touched my heart. Happy Valentine’s, Always…Disserette Mike…You and me forever we will be. Happy Valentine’s. XOXO…Diane I can’t wait to be your husband this year! I love you Vanna Tran!...8.8.8
James…At last my love has come along…Not Etta
Day…Your sister Mercy Anne
Robert Bodnar…Through good, bad, happiness and sadness, I still love you…Wendy
Denise Marie Kavialani…You will always be my
Robert…the most loving husband…Pat
are the xNicole…You $1 per word = $best sister. Happy Valentine’s
Nicole…You are the best sister. Happy Valentine’s Day…Your sister Mercy Anne
Love is spelled DAVID, Always…BK Disser…Forever you have touched my heart. Happy Valentine’s, Always…Disserette
teeth…Mama and Daddy
Number of words over 12:
Mercy Anne…You are the best sister. Happy Valentine’s Day…Your sister Nicole
Love is spelled DAVID, Always…BK
sheet if necessary
Pay just $1 for each word exceeding the first FREE 12. All messages must be prepaid.
Downtown News 1
Little Opposition and Lack of Interest Lead L.A. to an Azerbaijan-Like Ballot
dEadLinE for EntriEs — February 3
Sistas!...We are loved, adored, desired, envied and don’t forget it…Dorothy
Hector and Christine Barraza…You earned the respect & love of relatives and friends…LGV Porter
Just fill out the Love Lines form and mail, fax, email or deliver before Tuesday, February 3.
us to keep feeding it,” Weinstein said. He declined to comment on the specific circumstances surrounding the Patriot Group taking MJW’s place as a general partner in Santee Village last October, but admitted the move was a “very unprofitable” one brought on by necessity. He would not say whether MJW had defaulted on its $67.5 million construction loan. Patriot Group President Dan Harrington did not return phone calls. Though careful to note that he is see Santee Village, page 9
ExprEss your amour in our romantic LovE LinEs Edition — February 9
Carlos and Bonniem Calizo…Love and good care. Wedding congratulations, best wishes!...Love Mommy
Last chance to send a Love Line
photo by Gary Leonard
The November return of Olivet and Sinai to the Angels Flight track gave some hope that the funicular would resume operations soon. However, a reopening date has yet to be announced. Angels Flight closed following a deadly accident on Feb. 1, 2001.
Mr. Full Marine…Spend Valentine’s Day/Court with little monkey?...Michelle Alex Santiago…Chris will always love you, hope you are well, God Bless.
L.A. Downtown News • 1264 W. First Street, L.A., CA 90026 • fax: (213) 250-4617 • email: lovelines@DowntownNews.com • office hours: M-F, 8:30-5
18 CALENDAR LISTINGS 20 MAP 21 CLASSIFIEDS
photo by Gary Leonard photo by Gary Leonard
Mark Weinstein, developer of the massive Santee Village complex, shown here in 2007 at the project. Late last year a Connecticut-based lender took control of the Fashion District development.
Four years after being sworn in as mayor, Antonio Villaraigosa is facing minimal opposition in his run for a second term. He has garnered more than $2.7 million in campaign contributions, nearly 13 times the amount of money his nine competitors have raised combined.
Since 1972, an independent, locally owned and edited newspaper, go figure.
2 Downtown News
February 2, 2009
DowntownNews.com
AROUNDTOWN
a very good deal.” During the auction, 79 of the building’s 206 residences will be on sale. Registration information is available at therowanauction.com.
Puppet Theater Brings in Donations
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he Bob Baker Marionette Theater, a City West attraction for 45 years, is no longer in danger of imminent foreclosure, assistant theater manager Richard Shuler said last week. Last November, staff revealed that the theater, at 1345 W. First St., had fallen into debt, and 84-year-old owner Bob Baker had been told that he needed to raise approximately $30,000 to avoid foreclosure proceedings. Last week, Shuler said that thanks to an outpouring of support since then, the theater is well on its way to meeting that goal. “We’re seeing the light at the end of the tunnel,” said Shuler. “We’re not in the dire straits we were in.” Donations have come in the form of money and time, with one volunteer helping the theater re-write its nonprofit paperwork. Additionally, donations from three large organizations, including the Annenberg Foundation, are currently in the works, Shuler said. Fittingly, the theater marks Baker’s 85th birthday with a two-night celebration this weekend (for more information see p. 18).
Streetcar Effort Gets Project Manager
D
ennis Allen, a former executive with developer the Kor Group, has been appointed to manage the board of directors and lead fundraising efforts for Los Angeles Streetcar Inc., a nonprofit coalition aimed at bringing a streetcar back to Broadway and other parts of Downtown. In his new post, Allen will work with the LASI board of directors (which is still being formed) to set policy, approve by-laws and budgets, establish goals for the organization and lead fundraising efforts. “I’m excited to be part of such a catalytic project in the continued resurgence of Downtown,” Allen said in a statement. “We will work extremely hard to deliver this much-needed public transportation link.” Part of 14th District Councilman Jose Huizar’s year-old Bringing Back Broadway initiative to revitalize the historic corridor, LASI is being modeled on public-
private, nonprofit partnerships that helped create streetcar systems in Portland and Seattle. The proposed three-mile Downtown streetcar would connect Broadway to L.A. Live in South Park and the planned Grand Avenue project. The rail line is estimated to cost approximately $100 million. So far, the Community Redevelopment Agency has identified up to $10 million to support the effort, while Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard has appropriated more than $200,000 to help with feasibility studies and the environmental review process. That step, along with an analysis of potential routes, is expected to begin this year.
Last Chance for Love
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o you remember how in The Graduate Benjamin Braddock raced to the chapel and reached Elaine just before she married Carl? Well, this is your time to pull a Braddock — the deadline is swiftly approaching for all who want to get their Love Line into Los Angeles Downtown News’ annual Valentine’s Day issue. In fact, readers have only until Tuesday, Feb. 3, to write their message of affection for their husband, wife, partner, child, friend, co-worker, crush, pet, etc. The first 12 words of any Love Line are free ($1 per word after that) and there is a limit of one free message per reader. Love Lines will appear in the Feb. 9 issue of Downtown News. So don’t delay: If Braddock could get across town in time (not to mention overcome Mrs. Robinson), then surely you can send a letter, fax or email. For more information, see the Love Lines form on p. 17.
Rowan Auction Hits 140 Sign-Ups
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ith real estate watchers in Downtown and beyond eagerly awaiting the auction of units at the Rowan lofts, development officials last week said 140 people have been pre-approved to participate in the one-day event. Bill Stevenson, a partner with Downtown Properties, the developer of the project at 460 S. Spring St., said he is happy with the number of people who have registered so far for the Feb. 8 auction. Bidding for select units will start 45% below some previous asking prices. “It’s a nice start,” Stevenson said. “I would say the people that buy at this auction are going to get
University of Southern California
The Rolling Stones on Film A two-day festival puts the rock group on the big screen.
Born to Run to the Sports Arena
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he Boss is coming to Downtown. Bruce Springsteen, that is, and his E Street Band, will perform at the Los Angeles Sports Arena in Exposition Park on April 15. The concert will be Springsteen’s first local show following the release of his new album, Working on a Dream. If you caught his halftime performance during the Super Bowl on Sunday (which took place after Los Angeles Downtown News went to press) and want more, you better hustle; tickets go on sale Monday, Feb. 2, at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster. If you are a fan, buy your ticket early, then get ready to prove it all night in April.
Council Extends Hail-A-Taxi Program
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fter a slow start for the ballyhooed Hail-a-Taxi initiative, the City Council on Jan. 30 approved a one-year extension of the program, which loosened restrictions on where drivers may pick up fares in Downtown and Hollywood. Taxi drivers had previously been limited to loading zones, taxi stands and parking areas. In July, with the hope of encouraging cabbies to drive around looking for fares rather than wait in long taxi lines, the council approved a six-month pilot program. However, officials noted that it has been difficult to get cabs to stop on the street. Ninth District Councilwoman Jan Perry, who has been a strong supporter of the program, said more time may be needed to change the city’s cab culture. “We have to give people more time to change their perspective so that they understand this program can be very beneficial to people in the Downtown community and Hollywood,” she said.
Correction
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n the “Restaurant Buzz” published Jan. 19 article, Los Angeles Downtown News incorrectly reported that Rivera restaurant owner John Rivera Sedlar is making his own brand of Patron Tequila, Extra Anejo. The tequila he is making under the Rivera name is not related to Patron.
Why does this little burger stand attract over a million people a year?
Friday, February 6 – Saturday, February 7 Norris Cinema Theatre/ Frank Sinatra Hall Admission: Free, RSVP required http://cinema.usc.edu/RollingStones (213) 740-6786
THE SELF-DESCRIBED WORLD’S greatest
A L S O AT U S C :
rock ’n’ roll band made its cinematic debut in the 1964 documentary The T.A.M.I. Show. Filmed in front of 2,600 screaming fans, it paved the way for the Rolling Stones’ rich body of cinematic projects, six of which are featured in this two-day film festival. View JeanLuc Goddard’s 1968 essay on radical politics Sympathy for the Devil; Gimme Shelter, the Maysles brothers’ unflinching look at the Stones’s 1969 U.S. tour; and Martin Scorsese’s 2008 documentary Shine a Light. A panel brings together film and music experts, followed by a rock-inspired reception and a live performance by a local band.
Songs of Separation: William Grant Still and the Dilemmas of American Classical Music
USC your cultural connection
Thursday, February 5, 7 p.m. Composer William Grant Still, who lived in Los Angeles from 1934 to 1978, is often overlooked, despite an international reputation and a body of work that includes the
Find out at the landmark location near Downtown. Home of the original Chili-burger. Quality and value since 1946:
Chili Hamburger .............. $2.00 Chili Cheeseburger ........... $2.40
Afro-American Symphony, the art-song cycle Songs of Separation and the opera Troubled Island. USC Thornton School of Music students will perform a program of his vocal music followed by a discussion of Still’s life and work by music historian Lance Bowling and vocalist Peter Lightfoot. Alfred Newman Recital Hall General Admission: $18 (213) 740-2167
For more information visit www.usc.edu
LA Downtown News
Many Imitate, But None Compare!
tax included
February 2, 2009
Downtown News 3
SearchDowntownLA.com photo by Gary Leonard
Out With the Trading, In With the Dancing Developer Pursues Plan for Massive Nightclub in Former Pacific Stock Exchange Building by Anna Scott staff writer
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he former headquarters of the Pacific Stock Exchange in City West has not seen any trading in years. But if Downtown landowner Michael Delijani gets his way, the hulking edifice that overlooks the 110 Freeway will see plenty of activity, in the form of people eating, drinking and dancing. On Jan. 8, Delijani received an approval to sell alcohol from the City Planning Department for what he envisions as a 90,000-square-foot restaurant and nightclub on the building’s upper floors (he would still need a license from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control before beginning service). Delijani said he hopes to submit complete plans for the project to the city within the next few months. Delijani, whose family owns four historic Broadway theaters, among other properties, for years has been working on turning the Pacific Stock Exchange into a mixed-use development with a residential component. A previous plan would have augmented an update of the building with the construction of a pair of 30-story towers. “There have been some changes due to the economy,” Delijani said of his efforts. The current plan calls for the existing building to house the restaurant and nightclub above several floors of live-work units, plus an
18-story tower that could hold condominiums. A separate, low-rise apartment building would go up west of the existing structure, said Delijani. City Councilman Ed Reyes, whose First District includes the site, said he supports the project and would like to see the property activated. “I think it would fit,” he said. “If there was ever a place where we could intensify the use of mixed-use, restaurants, entertainment with housing, it’s that location.” Changing Plans Delijani would not provide any additional timeline or budget information on his plan to transform the former Pacific Stock Exchange, in part because of the current economic situation. His project comes in the midst of a financial meltdown, at a time when many planned Downtown developments are unable to obtain financing or are changing course from condominiums to rentals. As it stands now, the 24-year-old, 126,602-square-foot Pacific Stock Exchange building at 233 S. Beaudry Ave. consists of 10 levels of parking, one floor of offices and the former trading floor, which closed in 2001. It neighbors the Los Angeles Unified School District headquarters on Beaudry Avenue, and stands within a couple blocks of a new high school, the Edward R. Roybal Learning Center, and residential projects the Belmont
Michael Delijani, owner of the Pacific Stock Exchange building in City West, plans to turn the property’s upper floors into a 90,000-square-foot restaurant and nightclub.
Station Apartments and Canvas L.A. Delijani purchased the property in the late 1990s, and has proposed several ideas for it since then, gradually downsizing his plans. Most recently, in 2007, he abandoned the idea for two towers and called for 685 condominiums and more than 50,000 square feet of retail, housed in three separate, smaller structures. Currently, Delijani plans to transform the former 12th-level trading floor, terrace and rooftop into the restaurant and nightclub. The establishment would feature live entertainment, a dance floor and be open from 11 a.m.4 a.m. daily, with alcohol served until 2 a.m. No major opposition to the proposed nightclub has surfaced, though LAUSD officials have raised concerns about how it might affect their parking arrangement. According to documents filed with the city Zoning office, the LAUSD uses the Pacific Stock Exchange as a parking facility and has an agreement with Delijani’s company, Golden Hills Properties, entitling district staff to more than 900 parking spaces. Delijani said he would continue to provide parking to the LAUSD even after the project
moves forward. Plans for the rest of the building are still being discussed, Delijani said. Westside-based Nadel Architects, which was involved in previous plans for a transformation, is working on designs to turn the lower floors into live-work spaces and for the stand-alone apartment building, which Delijani said would include some level of affordable or workforce housing. Delijani also said he eventually plans to add an 18-story tower to the existing property, possibly for condominiums, though he plans to move forward with the nightclub first. “The entertainment facility is going to be very similar to the Standard hotel,” he said, referring to the Downtown Los Angeles nightspot known for attracting hip crowds to a rooftop space. “There’s going to be a rooftop benefiting from the view, and it’s going to be permanent, even after the tower is built.” Delijani said he is considering several local operators for the nightclub. The next phase of the development, the low-rise structure, is “close” to full entitlement, he said. Contact Anna Scott at anna@downtownnews.com.
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4 Downtown News
February 2, 2009
DowntownNews.com
EDITORIALS Public Spaces and Faces
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he architecture of L.A. Live has been debated and critiqued, sometimes harshly, since the mega-project opened in December. This is not surprising, as Anschutz Entertainment Group’s $2.5 billion development has instantly come to dominate South Park. Many of the reviews concern the role of the public in the project, though at this point the city’s interaction with the 27-acre complex is still being defined. But with that said, one joyful demonstration of the space happened on the morning of Jan. 20, when the plaza at the center of L.A. Live held the city’s largest public viewing of the inauguration of President Barack Obama. The crowd was estimated at more than 1,500, and pictures
of the event are thrilling and inspiring: a sea of people, many with cameras aloft, standing beneath a massive video screen showing the new president taking the oath of office and delivering his inaugural address. Other screens displayed smaller segments of the main video feed. Altogether, it was a perfect example of a way to bring citizens out of their homes to share an experience. There have been many discussions of the role the plaza will play in the civic life of Downtown Los Angeles. Fortunately, a phrase used early, that L.A. Live would be the “Times Square of the west,” is being heard with less frequency. Long before L.A. Live was completed, it was clear that we do not need to mimic New York City.
Pachyderms and People
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he long-running, attention-generating saga of where Billy the elephant will spend the rest of his life has been nothing short of amazing. The years-long fracas culminated last Wednesday, when hundreds of L.A. Zoo supporters (who want Billy and other pachyderms to live in the $42 million facility the Zoo is in the midst of building) and animal rights activists (who want Billy shipped off to a sanctuary) cheered, chanted and verbally sparred. Ultimately the City Council voted to continue construction and keep Billy
in L.A. When we say “amazing,” we’re referring to the spectacle of it all, as the Billy Battle of ’09 was full of press releases, organized protests with celebrities, extensive media coverage and a battle between Councilmen Tom LaBonge (in favor of the Zoo) and Tony Cardenas (a sanctuary supporter). We say amazing because it seems, sometimes, that people care a lot more about animals than they do about other people. We applaud those inspired enough to
take to the streets and make their voice heard on an issue of importance to them. Civic involvement is a good thing. But as that occurs, we question why there is not a similar outcry over issues such as homelessness, local elections, business retention, housing projects, and so on. There is often some public comment on these kinds of issues, but the crowds are almost never as large and the speeches are usually not as impassioned as those regarding an elephant. For example, on Jan. 15 the City Council’s Ad Hoc Committee on Homelessness met to discuss the countywide homeless count (which took place last week)
Shopping Center Crunch Time
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he new owners of the Little Tokyo Shopping Center are on the clock, as the surrounding community and the rest of Downtown Los Angeles are waiting to see how they respond and utilize the structure following the departure of its anchor tenant. Last week, Japanese grocery store the Mitsuwa Marketplace closed its huge space on the first floor of the mall, and the new owners intend to replace it with a supermarket that has more of a pan-Asian feel. It seems to be a reasonable decision, as the demographics of the neighborhood are changing. In recent years Little Tokyo has seen hundreds of non-Japanese
Urban Scrawl by Doug Davis
Downtown’s major public gathering spaces are evolving. Obviously the plaza at L.A. Live will be one for the foreseeable future, as will the South Lawn of City Hall. But other outdoor places can also hold a sea of faces: Thousands routinely show up in summer for the shows at the Watercourt at California Plaza on Bunker Hill, and the plaza at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels has been the home of public events from free Shakespeare to a gathering of Downtown people and their dogs. One day, maybe someone will figure out how to resuscitate Pershing Square. L.A. Live is a worthy addition to this line-up of active civic spots, and the crowd viewing the broadcast of the Obama inauguration is already one of the highlights of 2009. We look forward to more events and activities that engage and enthrall Downtown, at L.A. Live and elsewhere. We are fortunate to have so many major public spaces.
people move into the area’s apartment and condominium complexes. The traditional audience has been bolstered by the new arrivals, and it makes no sense to cater to just one segment of the populace. A new supermarket is step one, but as that occurs, we hope the owners will put some serious money into the shopping center. Over the years it has grown dreary, and its exterior is frequently (and fairly) described as “fortress-like.” It needs investment, inside and out. As this occurs, we hope the new owners will engage in public outreach and will seek to determine what goods and
and the future of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority. Although those subjects will affect tens of thousands of lives and cost tens of millions of dollars (at least), the number of people from the general public in the hearing room that morning could have been counted on one hand. It is the same when many other issues that affect the lives of people in Los Angeles come up for discussion. Again, we’re glad that people are making their voice heard about Billy, but it should not stop there. Hopefully, this exercise in civic activism will convince them that they can speak on other matters of importance, too.
services area stakeholders desire and will patronize. Not only would it demonstrate that they are committed to being a partner in the community, but it could be good business — customers will tell you what they want, if you are willing to listen.
How to reach us Main office: (213) 481-1448 MAIL your Letter Letters to the Editor • L.A. Downtown News 1264 W. First Street • Los Angeles, CA 90026 Email your Letter realpeople@downtownnews.com FAX your Letter (213) 250-4617 Read Us on the Web DowntownNews.com
Editor & PublishEr: Sue Laris GENErAl MANAGEr: Dawn Eastin ExEcutivE Editor: Jon Regardie citY Editor: Richard Guzmán stAFF writErs: Anna Scott, Ryan Vaillancourt coNtributiNG Editors: David Friedman, Kathryn Maese coNtributiNG writErs: Jay Berman, 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 ProductioN AssistANt / EvENt coordiNAtor: Claudia Hernandez PhotoGrAPhEr: Gary Leonard AccouNtiNG: Ashley Vandervort sAlEs MANAGEr: Dawn Eastin AssistANt sAlEs MANAGEr: George Caston sAlEs AssistANt: Annette Cruz clAssiFiEd AdvErtisiNG MANAGEr: Catherine Holloway AccouNt ExEcutivEs: Vanessa Acuña, Robert Dutcher, Catherine Holloway, Kelley Smith 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. It is also distributed to the extended urban communities of Glendale, Hollywood, Wilshire Center, Los Feliz, Silver Lake & Larchmont Village.
One copy per person.
February 2, 2009
Downtown News 5
Opinion
Downtown Home Hunt A Young Couple Has a Hard Time Finding a Place They Like, Especially With the Price of Parking by Ryan Vaillancourt staff writer
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fter living happily in the same Silver Lake building for more than two years, I’ve got the bug to move. My girlfriend and I are both working professionals in our mid-20s and live together in a top-floor, corner unit in a 1929 building. REPORTER’S NOTEBOOK
It’s got big French windows, a communal garden in the back and sunset views that stretch from the Hollywood Hills to Century City. It’s idyllic in many ways, but for months I’ve felt a magnetic pull to Downtown. I work here, of course, and it’s my job to explore and document the community. More and more frequently, I find myself hanging out in Downtown too, meeting friends for drinks or dinner at places like La Cita, Cole’s and the Library Bar. My girlfriend has taken to the area as well. She’s particularly smitten with the loft projects in turn-of-the-20th-century buildings throughout the Historic Core. So we set out to see what we could find and whether we could make a Downtown apartment work for us. We started by doing what any individual or couple should: We crafted a budget. Based our own financial situations and a mutual goal to save some money, we decided that first and foremost, we’re renters, not buyers, and that we’re willing to pay between $1,500 and $1,700 per month. It won’t get us a penthouse, but we should have options. After fueling up for a Sunday of loft hunt-
ing at the Nickel Diner on Main Street — the place was packed with people we imagined would be our new neighbors — we passed the Santa Fe Lofts and the Pacific Electric Lofts. We soon scratched both off the list when we found their leasing offices closed. A call ahead of time would have been wise, but why wouldn’t a rental building be open for tours on the one day everyone in the city has free? We were already bumping heads with the landlord. Parking Problems Our first tour came at the Chapman Flats, at Broadway and Eighth Street. Its striking white stone exterior was a plus for my girlfriend. I liked the ground floor coffee shop, Kelly’s. Looking at a list of “one-bedroom” apartments — almost all Chapman units have an open floor plan — there seemed to be options in our price range. Looking at the units themselves was another story. At 720 square feet, one of the available one bedrooms seemed too small for two people who occasionally need privacy. The rent was $1,565, but utilities would add about $80 per month, and while the Chapman includes one parking spot, a second space would cost $95 per month, pushing the total to about $1,750. It was close to the top of our range, but combined with the small living space, it wasn’t a fit. A block away, where Spring and Main streets collide, we fell in love with a 10th floor corner unit at the National City Tower Lofts where the floor plan separated the living room and kitchen from the bedroom. At about 800 square feet, it was bigger than
what we had seen down the block. It featured exposed original brick, great views and topnotch appliances. We liked it enough to go a bit beyond our agreed range, and would have paid the asking rent of $1,749 per month. Then the leasing
Then the leasing representative dropped the bomb: There was no onsite parking, and it would cost $300 to park our two cars in an uncovered lot on Spring Street.
representative dropped the bomb: There was no onsite parking, and it would cost $300 to park our two cars in an uncovered lot on Spring Street. (Two weeks later, the building changed its policy, and is now offering covered parking for $100 per car at a lot one block away.) The parking was a deal breaker, as it would be at three other Historic Core build-
ings. We saw a few units that we liked, but in each case parking — either because of price or location — made a move Downtown impossible for us. Even if we decided to dig a bit deeper to pay for a loft we liked, we wondered where guests would park when we host dinner parties, something we do often. Rents are coming down in the area, and obviously there are plenty of people who are finding Downtown apartments they like and can afford — according to the recent USC Casden Real Estate Forecast, apartment occupancy in Downtown Los Angeles, while down from 96% in September 2007, is still at 85%. But in our case, a couple early in their professional careers, we couldn’t find something that had the things we want — at least 800 square feet and two parking spots in an adaptive reuse project — for a price we can afford. Admittedly we toured a small sample of the area’s housing stock, but including the cost of parking, the average price was about $2.40 per square foot per month. That isn’t exorbitant, but a quick search on Craigslist turns up dozens of apartment options in Silver Lake, Echo Park and Angeleno Heights that, for the monthly rents we found Downtown, would come with a few hundred additional square feet, parking and maybe even a yard. We reasoned that if we’re going to rent, why not pay less for a larger space and still be just a few minutes from Downtown by car or bike? For now, I’m stumped. Contact Ryan Vaillancourt at ryan@downtownnews.com.
6 Downtown News
February 2, 2009
DowntownNews.com
L.A. Live General Manager Leaving Move Comes Shortly After $2.5 Billion Complex Opens by AnnA Scott StAff writer
B
arely two months after L.A. Live’s grand opening, its general manager is leaving. Friday, Feb. 6, marks Lisa Herzlich’s final day as head of the $2.5 billion, 27-acre entertainment district in South Park. Herzlich explained her departure from the project and its developer, Anschutz Entertainment Group, as a personal decision. “I want to get back into retail,” she said. “I want to get back into the mall business. It just seemed like the right time.” She added, “It’s not abrupt. [AEG President] Tim Lieweke and I have been talking about this for a while.”
Herzlich was appointed senior vice president and managing director of L.A. Live in September 2006. She was hired to handle the project’s overall operations, including programming and booking special events, marketing and other duties. Herzlich, who before joining AEG served as marketing director for Denver’s Cherry Creek Shopping Center, said last week that her goals are no longer in line with the high-profile event-driven approach of L.A. Live. With L.A. Live’s entertainment venues and the bulk of its restaurants open, “We decided to restructure and go in a different direction, which is good for L.A. Live but it’s not what I’m interested in,” said Herzlich. “That direction is to attract big events… things that are synergistic with Staples Center,
Up Clip Creek Without a Paddle Another Year, the Same Old Clippers
A
t the conclusion of Aguirre, The Wrath of God, a classic film by German auteur/nutjob Werner Herzog, a demented, woulda-been 16th century messianic dictator played by Klaus Kinski is floating down a treacherous South American river, the other members of his crew either consumed by insidious disease, completely emaciated or riven with arrows. Aguirre, gripped by fever, looks glassyeyed toward the horizon from his dilapidated craft, grandly forecasts his future dynasty to the screeching capuchin monkey in his hand and snarls, “Who else is with me?” They should play this clip before every Clippers home game. Being a fan of Downtown’s other NBA franchise requires a sado-masochistic streak so deep you’re even asked to overlook the ridiculous incongruity of the team’s name. The Clipper ship is a handsome, powerful boat that skims smoothly over the seas. Conversely, the wobbly vessel that’s been slowly circling the Staples Center drain for the past decade has no sails with which to gather wind. Perhaps the voluminous jersey of injured power forward Zach Randolph would suffice, especially if you augment it with the sweat-free gear of practically every other Clipper the casual hoops fan has probably heard of: big-bucks free agent signee Baron Davis, a big-time disappointment thus far, not to mention frustratingly erratic center Chris Kaman and veteran rebound machine Marcus Camby. All four, plus rookie guard Mike Taylor, are currently in drydock with various ailments. Despite the perceived one-man mutiny of former team leader Elton Brand, who jumped ship during the off-season for Philadelphia after reportedly helping convince Davis to enlist, the gritty Clippers nonetheless entered this season with visions of somehow reaching the playoffs in the hypercompetitive Western Conference. Instead, they’ve been wracked by injuries and sunk 20,000 leagues below the league, once again a sure thing for the nationally televised ignominy of the NBA Draft Lottery, where
former General Manager Elgin Baylor was once a fixture. The NBA draft system is supposed to help maintain competitive balance in the league, as teams that finish the season with the worst records are awarded the top picks in the annual draft, theoretically enabling them Michael X. Ferraro to secure the services of the best players about to turn pro. However, history tells us that STADIUM the Clippers’ knack for soundly investing in their future is half a notch above Bernie Madoff’s. Lottery pick legends such as Michael Olowokandi, Bo Kimble and Benoit Benjamin kept them off course for most of the last two decades, which didn’t seem to bother ownership in the slightest. Speaking of the owner, Donald Sterling might be a realestate tycoon, but he’s also a basketball buffoon. Not once but twice under his tenure, the Clippers have gone entire summers without a head coach in place, the cash savings apparently enough to compensate for the resulting chaos in the front office. Last summer, Sterling fired 22-year man Baylor, eliminating one more salary, and officially handed the front office reins to coach Mike Dunleavy. Unfortunately, it’s been long understood that Dunleavy already had significant say in the team’s personnel decisions, meaning he’s at least partially to blame for this decade’s draft-day fiascoes which netted the Clips the legendary likes of Shaun Livingston and Yaroslav Korolev instead of current NBA All-Stars who were still available at the time such as Devin Harris, Amare Stoudemire and Danny Granger, currently the third-leading scorer in the NBA. (Korolev, to be fair, is tearing up the Moscow Starbucks employee rec league.) Judging from their First Amendment exercising, what’s left of the Clipper faithful wish the reins Dunleavy were
CLICHE
and my passion is retail.” The first phase of L.A. Live, the 7,100-seat Nokia Theatre, opened in October 2007. The second stage began rolling out last November and opening festivities were held throughout December. So far the project has seen the arrival of the Grammy Museum, Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge, the Conga Room and various eateries. Five more restaurants are expected to open this year, as is a 14-screen Regal Cinemas. The capstone of the project, a $900 million Ritz-Marriott hotel-condominium tower, is scheduled to open in early 2010. Staples Center and Nokia Theatre General Manager Lee Zeidman will take over Herzlich’s position at L.A. Live. “Everything’s being consolidated into one area, so there’s not an operations team at L.A. Live and an operations team at Staples,” said AEG spokesman Michael Roth. “It’s more efficient for us to group both sides of the operations together. We’re not doing that to get rid of people. It’s just more efficient.” Contact Anna Scott at anna@downtownnews.com.
handed was actually a noose. White t-shirts proclaiming “Dump-leavy” are proudly worn at home games and there are at least two websites dedicated to his dismissal. But even with his Tony Soprano-on-the-sidelines demeanor, occasionally baffling player substitutions and lack of a coherent offensive philosophy, this respected coach who used to run the Lakers and Blazers can’t shoulder most of the blame for what’s happening to his team this year. Nope, this is just the Clippers being the Clippers. Like the Cubs, the Detroit Lions and the pre-2004 Boston Red Sox, they are seemingly a cursed franchise who lead the league in only one category: NOmentum. The worst part is the inevitable spasms of optimism, like rigor mortis, that grip the Clipper faithful and get them ranting to their inner capuchin. This year’s first-round pick, shooting guard Eric Gordon, is a strong defender who’s displayed an impressive scoring ability with the veterans out — he fired in a franchise rookie-record 41 points in a rare home victory against the equally sinkable Oklahoma City Thunder. Rookie center DeAndre Jordan has also shown flashes of brilliance, but the engaging blogger (check him out at my.clippers.com) apparently thinks there are two halves of the basketball court — the dunking side and the resting side. True, the big man likes to block shots, but his defensive presence in the paint has thus far been negligible. Just ask Lakers center Andrew Bynum, who torched Jordan for 42 points a couple weeks back. Second-year forward Al Thornton is athletic and has great instincts around the basket, which would seem to make it two straight good drafts in a row for Dunleavy et al., but Thornton also displays questionable shot selection and a lack of focus that recall his talented predecessor Corey Maggette, a Sterling favorite now helping keep the Golden State Warriors at the bottom of the standings. It’s gotten so bad that even one of the franchise’s few bright spots, DJ Dense, who spins good music and actually gets the crowd moving during stoppages in play, should probably refrain from asking super-fan Clipper Darrell to “start the wave.” After all, the roaring rapids the Clipper ship is sure to generate down the homestretch will capsize the competition and take them to their rightful place atop the basketball world. Who else is with me?
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In Counting the Homeless, Experience Helps Organization Uses Former Skid Row Denizens to Get Accurate Tally of Those on the Streets by Ryan VaillancouRt staff wRiteR
U
nder the dim glow of an overhead streetlamp, Bruce Turner and Jimmy Adams stood silently at the corner of Towne and Sixth streets last Thursday and watched another man saunter away. The man walked with his head down but a clear sense of purpose. Unlike most of the men and women on the streets of Skid Row this night, he wasn’t carrying a sack or pushing a shopping cart stuffed with belongings. “What do you think about him?” asked Shannon Parker, who along with Turner and Adams was one of a team of five volunteers assigned to count homeless denizens as part of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority’s 2009 homeless census. The man lacked some of the telltale signs of homelessness, but Turner and Adams saw something Parker may not have been looking for: his rumpled clothes and the dust on one side of his torso seemed to indicate that he had recently been sleeping on the street. “Yes,” Turner answered. Adams agreed and said “one male,” meaning one homeless man to add to the team’s running tally. Turner and Adams had some extra knowledge: The friends both used to be homeless and slept on these streets. “There’s my old Sunday spot,” said Turner, pointing to a wheelchair ramp in front of a shrimp processing business on Crocker Street. “I used to curl up there and rest all day.” Both recent graduates of the Los Angeles Mission’s drug and alcohol education and rehabilitation program, Turner and Adams reside there in transitional housing. Though no longer sleeping on the streets, and sober for more than a year, they will actually be among those counted in the LAHSA census, as they are technically homeless. But that didn’t stop them from participating. When asked by staff at the mission to take part in the count, Turner, Adams and Arthur Varela, another mission program participant, agreed without hesitation.
“You know it serves a good purpose,” said Adams. It also has a long-term benefit: An accurate count will help determine how much federal money LAHSA receives to combat homelessness. In the most recent count in 2007, LAHSA found that there were 73,000 homeless people on any given night in Los Angeles County, the most in any county nationwide. Safety and Respect More than 100 volunteers who signed up to participate in the Downtown Los Angeles count crammed into a meeting room at the Midnight Mission at 8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 29. After registering, the volunteers were issued a de facto uniform of white t-shirts and white caps emblazoned with the project’s orange logo. Volunteer Daniel Wherley then walked the room through a series of instructions. He stressed that, for safety reasons and out of respect for the people being counted, volunteers should not engage the homeless. “What you have to remember is that this is where these people reside,” Wherley said. “We have to respect that.” Volunteers were also instructed to count homeless encampments individually, from tents and makeshift cardboard shelters to vehicles used for sleeping. The agency will later plug the data into a formula developed by biostatisticians to estimate the number of individuals living inside. “Unless you can do so from a safe distance, do not try to count the number of individuals inside or peer into a car or a tent with your flashlight,” Wherley said. By 9 p.m., teams of three to five volunteers fanned out across Downtown to their assigned census tract (counts took place in other portions of Los Angeles County on two previous nights). The team with the L.A. Mission volunteers was assigned to the western half of census tract 206-300, an area that includes the Midnight Mission and the heart of Skid Row. Canvassing those streets, the team saw obvious cases of homelessness: men and women laying on flattened cardboard boxes on the sidewalk, usually with a few bags of belongings surrounding them. Later, Parker spotted a man inside the back of a police car. A packed suitcase leaning against a wall besides four officers
photo by Gary Leonard
Volunteers Kristine Roethel and Bruce Turner work together to tally homeless people in Skid Row. It was part of an effort to determine how many people in Los Angeles County are homeless.
was likely his, indicating he too was homeless. “One male,” Parker said. By 10:30 p.m., that man would be one of 201 adult males counted by the group. There were 49 adult females and one male youth, as well as another 31 adults of unknown gender. Yet perhaps the most important number was two. That’s how many people approached the group in search of help finding housing, a request that Parker was well suited to service thanks to her role with Skid Row Housing Trust. One man who took Parker’s name and number said he’d call her. “Is tomorrow too soon?” he asked. “No,” Parker answered. “It’s never soon enough.” Contact Ryan Vaillancourt at ryan@downtownnews.com.
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February 2, 2009 photo by Gary Leonard
DowntownNews.com
Angels Flight Continued from page 1 Downtown stakeholders. “I think it’s been terrible,” said Ninth District Councilwoman Jan Perry of the long closure and the inability to get the railway running again. “It’s broken that link between upper Olive and Grand [Avenue] and down below at Grand Central Market, and it was a very reasonably priced tourist attraction.” Although it appeared progress was being made late last year, no reopening date has been announced. John Welborne, president of the Angels Flight Railway Foundation, the nonprofit that oversees Angels Flight, kept his comments about an opening date to “very soon.” Safety, he said, trumps rushing to meet a deadline. “I would say if there were no delays… we’re at about the 97% point of all the work that’s needed to get done,” he said. “We really don’t know exactly when it’s going to be finished, or if I did I wouldn’t tell you because you would call me a liar if we pulled back a week or something, but it’s really quite soon,” he added. Historic Connector Angels Flight, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was opened in 1901 by Colonel J.W. Eddy. It ferried passengers between the Bunker Hill residential district and the commercial neighborhood in what is now the Historic Core. In 1969 the city closed and dismantled the railway when the area underwent redevelopment. With involvement from the CRA and extensive volunteer work from a group including Welborne, Angels Flight reopened in 1996, a block away from its original location. Riders paid 25 cents to travel up and down the steep incline connecting California Plaza with Hill Street across from the Grand Central Market. Five years later, on Feb. 1, 2001, a problem with the gear and drive system caused one car to slide down the tracks where it smashed into the other. The collision killed 83-yearold Leon Praport and injured seven others. Since then, Welborne has announced multiple reopening dates, some as early as 2002. None were met. Most recently, in January 2007, Welborne and other Angels Flight officials held a press conference at the base of the railway where they said that service would resume that summer, though that was later pushed to the end of December, which would have coincided with the 106th anniversary of the railway’s original opening. In January 2008, Welborne told Los Angeles Downtown News that a new drive system had been installed late the previous year. At the time, he said Angels Flight would reopen “soon.” Welborne last week again said a return is approaching. “I
At a January 2007 press conference, Angels Flight officials stated that the railway would run again by the summer. Third from the left is John Welborne, president of the Angels Flight Railway Foundation.
think it will be very soon because we almost have the work done,” he said He blamed the majority of the delays on legal settlements with victims of the 2001 accident — those were resolved in 2006 — and on a National Transportation Safety Board investigation that faulted the city contractor, the Yantrak Company, for improper design and construction, which drove up the price of replacing the drive system. Visible Progress Activity late last year generated excitement that things would finally change. On Nov. 1, a 275-ton crane parked on Hill Street and lifted the two cars back onto the Angels Flight track. Engineers have since connected a second safety cable and begun testing the cars, their controls and various feedback and safety circuits, Welborne said. On Jan. 12-17, he said, further tests had the cars running at full speed up and down the railway. Welborne said the next step is a load test followed by an inspection by the California Public Utilities Commission, which must approve the train and its safety features before Angels Flight can resume service. Andrew Kotch, a spokesman for the PUC, said the commission has inspected the track components and surveyed the progress. The PUC is waiting for instructions from the Angels Flight Foundation to observe load tests. Once the commission is notified that repairs are complete, an inspection of the railway could take about 30 days. Long Absence The repeated delays and missed deadlines have frustrated many in Downtown. “It’s awful, it’s terrible,” Eriman said. “We want it open as
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soon as possible. We’ve been asking for it for years, but it still hasn’t happened.” Perry, who has been critical of the delays, expressed a similar sentiment. “It’s a disappointment to me that once the lawsuit was settled, and with the number of people Downtown, myself included, who have attempted to participate vigorously in the reopening of it, it’s a veil that we have not yet been able to pierce,” she said. Officials with the Community Redevelopment Agency, which owns the land where Angels Flight stands, said they too hope for a speedy return of the railway. The CRA is not involved in the restoration or operation of Angels Flight. “We understand the difficulties involved in getting the funicular up and running and hope, like everyone else in Downtown Los Angeles, that it will soon be working again,” Len Betz, a project manager for the CRA, said via email. Welborne, who said he has raised about $3.3 million for the project, said many of the delays were out of his hands. “We had contracts with companies that said they would have everything ready to go at the end of summer 2007 and they didn’t,” he said. “As quickly as this can be done safely, we’re doing it.” Linda Dishman, executive director of preservationist organization the Los Angeles Conservancy, said that despite the delays, she is also hopeful the railway will reopen soon. “I think when Angles Flight is back there will be a much stronger movement of people between the newer Downtown and the historic Downtown.” Until that happens, however, Downtown waits. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.
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Santee Village Continued from page 1 not familiar with Santee Village in particular, Gary Painter, director of research for USC’s Lusk Center for Real Estate, said the situation sounds typical of a project that fails to meet its anticipated sales figures. “My guess is they tried to rework their loan, but they just weren’t able to get an agreement on that,” he said. “This is happening in a lot of places right now, and not just in Los Angeles.” Lowering Expectations The 780,000-square-foot Santee Village complex consists of seven buildings bordered by Los Angeles, Maple, Seventh and Eighth streets. The project houses 445 units, onethird of them apartments and the rest condominiums. It also has 66,000 square feet of retail space. Weinstein said the overall budget for the development was $90 million, though a 2006 advertisement for the project pegged it at $130 million. So far, six of the seven buildings are open, with the two most recent — the Cornell and the Eckhart — debuting in 2007. While the rental units are approximately 98% occupied, slower-than-projected sales, coupled with the economy’s recent nosedive, were the main stumbling blocks for Santee Village’s development team, Weinstein said. “The reason that the project didn’t work is we weren’t selling enough units fast enough to justify what needed to go into it,” he said. “It’s all about market timing.” Partly because of the slow sales, Santee Village’s retail space also weathered a recent blow. In November, the pharmacy giant Rite Aid, which had been the project’s anchor tenant at Seventh and Los Angeles streets, closed. At least two other ground-floor spaces in the 2009 forecast.qxp
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1/26/2009
2:38 PM
project fronting Los Angeles Street are also vacant. “[Rite Aid] was probably just a bit ahead of its time, as we know the density didn’t quite come to pass as what many were projecting,” said Derrick Moore of CB Richard Ellis, who is handling leasing for the Rite Aid space. “You still have units that are unsold and, more importantly, unoccupied. What happens now is you’ll have an area that after 5, 6 p.m., the population reduces significantly.” Currently, 170 Santee Village condominiums are unsold, including the 73-unit Santee building, which was scheduled to open last November but has been delayed indefinitely. Weinstein, who is still involved with the project on a consulting basis, said negotiations are underway to market the Santee as apartments. Other unsold units in the complex also could be transitioned to rentals. Also still undecided is what the Patriot Group’s marketing strategy will look like in the coming months. In the past, MJW has employed aggressive and novel promotions; in 2007, the company was offering loft buyers a Mini Cooper along with their units. As of last week, the Santee Village website had apparently been taken down, and the project’s former sales office phone number was disconnected. Rewriting the Rules This is not the first time Santee Village’s ownership has seen change. In 2006, the Phoenix Realty Group joined MJW as a partner in the development’s second phase. Phoenix is also no longer involved with the project, Weinstein said. The Patriot Group was a mezzanine-equity lender for Santee Village, meaning the company loaned the developer a percentage of the project’s construction cost up front. Mezzanine-level funding helps developers obtain higher levels of financing from senior-level construction lenders. In MJW’s case, the senior
construction lender was Bank of America. Sometimes, said Painter, if a developer defaults on a senior-level construction loan, the mezzanine lender takes over the developer’s obligations, though it is often a last resort. With housing sales in a nationwide slump, he added, such situations are occurring with greater frequency. Expenses that fall onto developers when units go unsold include property taxes and homeowner’s association fees, among other costs. “Many developers are looking to rework their loan arrangements in all sectors of the real estate industry,” said Painter. “Depending on the financial position of the developer and their lenders, you’re going to see a wide range of work-out strategies. Some will be repossessed, some will be under different terms.” One strategy that Downtown has seen a lot of over the past year is rewriting loans to turn for-sale projects into rentals. Downtown
photo by Gary Leonard
Santee Village suffered a blow in November when its anchor retail space, a Rite Aid, left the project. Officials blamed an expected mass residential base that never materialized.
Page 1
2009-2010
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buildings conceived as condominiums that have instead opened as apartments include Broadway’s Chapman Flats and Judson lofts, Artisan on Second in the Arts District and TenTen Wilshire in City West. With the ongoing recession, that trend might become less common in the coming year, Painter said. Development-heavy areas like Downtown Los Angeles could see other strategies, such as ownership changes, more frequently. “For a while, people were taking condos and converting them to rentals because rents were staying strong,” he said. “But given that the job market is weak, unemployment is up throughout the state, that’s going to create downward pressure on the rental market. “Everyone’s going to be trying to figure out how to minimize losses.” Contact Anna Scott at anna@downtownnews.com.
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10 Downtown News
February 2, 2009
DowntownNews.com
THE LIST
Jewelry District 2009: Listed by number of tenants Building Profile • Year built • Number of stories
tenants Retail
1
St. Vincent’s Jewelry Center 1 650 S. Hill St., 90014 629-2124
1905-1935 10
450
2
International Jewelry Center 550 S. Hill St., 90013 624-3201
1981 16
375
3
California Jewelry Mart 607 S. Hill St., 90014 627-7831
1916 9
250
4
Jewelry Theatre Building 411 W. Seventh St., 90014 622-2675
1920 9
160
5
Los Angeles Jewelry Center 629 S. Hill St., 90014 624-1335
1930 12
160
6
Fox Jewelry Plaza 608 S. Hill St., 90014 627-8907
1932 12
150
7
Park Central Building 412 W. Sixth St., 90014 627-3996
1920 14
150
8
West Coast Jewelry Center 610 S. Broadway, 90014 622-8484
1929 10
150
9
Jewelry Design Center 404 W. Seventh St., 90014 626-8800
1927 14
130
10
Fifth and Hill Building 448 S. Hill St., 90013 489-1588
1924 13
118
11
Jewelers Mall 625 S. Hill St., 90014 688-7722
NA 3
110
12
Great Western Jewelry Plaza 706 S. Hill St., 90014 629-0011
1925 12
89
13
Jewelry Trades Building 220 W. Fifth St., 90013 689-3232
1923 9
85
14
Jewelers Wholesale Building 314 W. Sixth St., 90014 622-4699
NA 6
60
15
556 S. Broadway Building 556 S. Broadway, 90013 622-6462
NA 5
45
16
643 S. Olive St. 643 S. Olive St., 90014 892-0088
1912 10
40
17
International Jewelry Mart 410 W. Seventh St., 90014 627-2885
NA 3
33
18
818 Plaza 818 W. Seventh St., 90071 895-5901
NA 12
30
19
Crown Plaza 631 S. Olive St., 90014 (626) 449-0466
1986 9
30
20
527 W. Seventh St. 527 W. Seventh St., 90014 622-6651
NA 13
25
21
Wholesale Jewelry Mart 635 S. Hill St., 90014 622-9677
NA 8
17
22
Chester Williams Building 215 W. Fifth St., 90013 689-3232
1923 12
15
23
716 Broadway Building 716 S. Broadway, 90014 623-4008
NA 6
9
24
Broadway Mall 440 S. Broadway, 90013 629-3263
NA 7
6
25
633 S. Olive St. Building 633 S. Olive St., 90014 620-9623
NA 2
1
26
Jewelry Tools and Findings 319 W. Sixth St., 90014 627-8004
NA 3
1
27
Sassounian/Ashikian Holding 716 S. Olive St., 90014 627-1220
1911 3
1
28
Universal Building 323 W. Eighth St., 90014 622-7234
NA 6
1
29
United Company 707 S. Broadway, 90014 624-6600
1920 10
NA
NA = Not Available 1. St. Vincent's Jewelry Center - 640 S. Hill and 659 S. Broadway.
Tenant Profile Wholesale
Manufacturing
Repair
Office
Contacts • Property manager • Property owner
✔
✔
✔
✔
Aram Davidian L.A. Unified Investment Co. LLC
✔
✔
✔
✔
Jennifer T. Porter International Jewelry Center LLC
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
✔
NA Karnig and Seza Kouyoumjian
✔
✔
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Tess Mathews Los Angeles Jewelry Center LLC
✔
✔
✔
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Vigen Gharapetpour Fox Investment Co. LLC
✔
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✔
✔
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✔
✔ ✔
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David Gungormezer California Jewelry Mart LLC
Lupe Martinez J2 Investments LP
✔
Pierre Toulakany 610 Broadway Associates LP
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Cheryl Rogers Jewelry Design Center LLC David Gungormezer Fifth and Hill Center LLC
✔ ✔
✔
David Gungormezer Great Western Jewelry Plaza LLC
✔
Peterson Go Fifth Street Funding Inc.
✔ ✔
✔
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Daniel Agojian West Sixth & Broadway Partnership
✔
Alan Kirkland NA
✔ ✔
✔ ✔
✔
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Lori Greenland Downtown Properties LLC David Hopf 631 S. Olive; Portfolio Inc.
✔
Chris Admer Gary Cobrae
✔ ✔
Shaun Gong 643 S. Olive LLC Susan Byun International Jewelry Mart LLC
✔
✔
✔
Diaky Kiaz The Jewelers Mall LLC
✔
Istepan Tegelecian Edward Nizamian
✔ ✔
✔
Peterson Go Fifth Street Funding Inc.
✔
Alan Kirkland NA
✔
Ann Simons Gabriel Ruben NA George Elmassiam
✔
NA Niam Farah
✔ ✔
NA Paul Sassounian
✔
Paul Overett Zemmi Corporation
✔
✔
✔
✔
General Disclaimer This list was culled from information provided by the Historic Core and Downtown Center Business Improvement Districts, as well as the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) Office Market Journal. To the best of our knowledge and abilities, all
Cyrus Davoodian United Company LLC
information is factual as of the initial publication date. Please send any comments, suggestions, corrections and additions on company letterhead to the Los Angeles Downtown News, 1264 W. First St., Los Angeles 90026. ©2009 by Los Angeles Downtown News Researched by Claudia Hernandez
February 2, 2009
Election Continued from page 1 When voters go the polls on March 3, only one of the eight City Council seats up for grabs will be a question mark; coincidentally, it’s the Fifth District, the only one without an incumbent running. Meanwhile, current Council members Ed Reyes, Dennis Zine, Bill Rosendahl, Eric Garcetti and Janice Hahn all have opposition about as frightening as a box of Beard Papa’s cream puffs. The amazing thing is, they’ll technically face more competition than Council members Richard Alarcon and Jan Perry — despite the fact that each represents a district with more than 200,000 residents, both are running unopposed. That means they’ll actually get a higher percentage of the vote than Aliyev. Heck, unless something crazy happens with write-ins, they’ll surpass Saddam Hussein’s reported 99.96% of the Iraqi vote in 1995. These are less elections than they are coronations. There is as much chance of an upset as there is of ABC bringing back the 1990 show “Cop Rock.� A look at the most recent campaign disclosure statements filed with the City Ethics Commission reveals fun facts like 15th District Councilwoman Hahn has pulled in $131,479.98 more than her lone competitor on the ballot, Chris Salabaj, who has raised exactly no money (either that or Salabaj is not reporting contributions, a no-no). Still, she has less of a lead than 11th District rep Bill Rosendahl; his only foe on the ballot, Harry Wilson, also has not reported a single penny in donations, while Rosendahl has more than $234,000. What separates Rosendahl and Hahn from the rest of their colleagues? According to the Ethics Commission, they’re the only sitting Council members who have opted to participate in the city’s matching funds program, meaning they are eligible to receive up to $100,000 apiece in city cash during the primary. As of late last week, neither had submitted a claim for nor received any of the money. Probably a wise decision considering the city’s several hundred million dollar budget shortfall. Voter Fatigue There are a couple of contested races on the March 3 ballot. Current Fifth District Councilman Jack Weiss, who it seems has been running for the City Attorney’s post since
Downtown News 11
SearchDowntownLA.com “Cop Rock� went off the air, has found more opposition and fundraising prowess than he might have initially expected from two competing attorneys, Michael Amerian and Carmen Trutanich. In the race to replace Laura Chick as City Controller, the assumed shoe-in, current Second District Councilwoman Wendy Greuel, is getting a race from longtime city player Nick Patsaouras. While the results of both elections will have a significant
Antonio Villaraigosa, whose first term has earned about as many enthusiastic reviews as ‘Paul Blart: Mall Cop,’ is barely even pretending to campaign.
impact on what happens in Los Angeles over the next decade, neither race alone will propel many people to go to the polls. With her waterfall of audits, the hard-hitting Chick may have made the controller’s post one of the most important jobs in city government during her eight years, but unless Greuel or Patsaouras start driving to campaign rallies in the Batmobile, almost no one is going to get excited about the race. The lack of anything real to decide, combined with the chronic voter fatigue (soon to be recognized by the American Medical Association) created by the fact that we’ve gone to the polls something like 19 times in the past couple years, means that we’re looking at a situation where turnout could hit record lows. Heck, there will probably be more people in Staples Center on March 3 to watch the Lakers beat one of the NBA’s doormats, the Memphis Grizzlies, than there will be voters who go to the polls that day in certain districts. No Hard Questions If there is one thing making the March 3 ballot more boring than an audio book of Jim Hahn reading War & Peace,
it’s the mayor’s race. Antonio Villaraigosa, whose first term has earned about as many enthusiastic reviews as Paul Blart: Mall Cop, is barely even pretending to campaign. And with $2.7 million in contributions so far, or nearly 13 times what the other nine people on the ballot have raised combined, he doesn’t have to. Don’t be surprised if Villaraigosa surpasses the 71% of the vote that Vladimir Putin notched in his 2004 re-election bid in Russia. Once mall developer Rick Caruso announced last year that he would skip this election, Villaraigosa probably began giggling like a schoolgirl meeting the Jonas Brothers. The lack of competition is astounding, considering the widespread belief that, after he declares victory, Villaraigosa won’t complete a second term, and instead will turn his attention to a run for governor (if Sen. Dianne Feinstein doesn’t run), senator (if she does, and gives up her Senate seat) or emperor (should it somehow become available). The best-funded opposition candidate, Walter Moore, who according to the latest campaign disclosure statements has raised $202,000 but has spent $216,000 (though he also has received $43,000 in matching funds), is not garnering nearly enough traction to pose a threat. The net result is that there is nothing resembling a challenge, and without a challenge, no one can make Villaraigosa answer the hard questions or defend his record. There are plenty of areas where he could be taken to task, from his botched attempt to use Sacramento legislation to take over the LAUSD to his frequent out-of-town travels. In a real race he might be questioned about the tremendous failure of his Million Trees campaign, the extramarital affair that led to the dissolution of his marriage, his invisible stance on billboard blight and the still-unfulfilled boilerplate promise to get the LAPD to 10,000 police officers. Instead, Villaraigosa seems to have decided there is no reason to debate his opponents, much less remind the public that there is an election next month. Expect him to continue on the current course, and in the closing weeks stage a few TV camera-friendly re-election events, and perhaps even make a final-day bus tour across the city. Then on March 3, he’ll celebrate four more years. The only question is whether he’ll get 71% and be like Putin, or if he’ll ascend all the way to Azerbaijan territory. Contact Jon Regardie at regardie@downtownnews.com.
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DowntownNews.com
12 Downtown News
February 2, 2009
HEALTH ‘Red’ Alert Downtown Buildings Light Up for a Cause
O
n Thursday, Feb. 5, those who look up at the Downtown Los Angeles skyline may be a bit surprised. But don’t let surprise turn to alarm: City Hall is supposed to have a red tint, and several Central City skyscrapers will be displaying hearts for a reason. The lighting displays are going up for National Wear Red Day, which takes places Friday, Feb. 6. That is an attempt to raise awareness for women’s heart health. According to the American Heart
Association, heart disease is the number one killer of women in the country, and a woman dies of heart disease every 60 seconds. Thus, buildings across Los Angeles will have special illumination. Downtown structures that will feature lighting displays include City Hall, the Metropolitan Water District headquarters, Bank of America Plaza, the Gas Company Tower and Ernst & Young Plaza. For more information, visit goredforwomen.org.
Photography-Julius Shulman and Juergen Nogai
Several Downtown buildings will hold special lighting displays on Thursday, Feb. 5, to draw attention to women’s heart health.
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From the Mouth To the Heart Good Oral Hygiene Can Benefit More Than Just Teeth by beth Dunham
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ailing to take preventive oral health care seriously with good dental hygiene and other healthy habits doesn’t just hurt your smile. It could possibly harm your heart as well. “More and more publications are providing evidence that suggests a link between chronic oral infection and heart disease,” said Hessam Nowzari, director of the advanced periodontics program at the USC School of Dentistry. About 80 million American adults — approximately one in three — have one or more forms of cardiovascular disease, according to the American Heart Association. Many recent periodontology studies indicate that photo by Philip Channing people with infections in the tis- Hessam Nowzari of the USC School of Dentistry notes sues that surround the teeth are that many publications are suggesting that there is a link nearly twice as likely to have heart between chronic oral infection and heart disease. disease, Nowzari said, adding that the onset of oral infection also appears to identify risk factors, take a proactive role make existing heart ailments more severe. in maintaining their health and minimize One prevailing theory holds that bacte- both the financial and the physical costs of ria residing in the “pockets” between teeth health care, Nowzari said. and gum tissue may enter the bloodstream “Both doctors and dentists should be in the mouth and travel to the heart, at- part of one’s health care team, especially taching to fatty plaques and contributing for anyone at risk for or diagnosed with to clot formation and artery thickening, heart disease,” he said. said Nowzari. Another possibility is that February celebrates not only Valentine’s the immune system’s inflammatory re- Day, but also marks both American sponse to the chronic oral infection may Heart Month and National Wise Health itself cause plaque buildup and artery Consumer Month. It’s a great time to talk swelling, he added. with loved ones about obtaining proper Oral infection’s role as an aggravating preventive care and staying healthy well factor in heart disease highlights the need into the future, Nowzari said. for prevention and healthy habits on all “Inform the people you care about that fronts, including a balanced diet, regular their health is important to you,” he said. exercise and a proper oral hygiene routine. Article courtesy of the USC School of Regular preventive checkups help patients Dentistry.
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Downtown News 13
Health
Go the Distance Training for Fitness Goals Is Something Everyone Can Do by Cindy Cafferty
D
oes the thought of the ultimate fitness goal — a half marathon, full marathon or triathlon — seem more like a fantasy, or worse, a nightmare, for an average dreamer such as yourself? Think again. Across the nation, people of every shape, size, age and fitness level are turning their fitness dreams into reality. With a little motivation and the right advice, so can you. You don’t need to be a fitness guru to get started. “The bottom line is you get what you put into it,” said Craig Watterson, running coach for Team in Training (TNT), the fundraising arm of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. “And you can start from nowhere, but once you do a marathon or a half-marathon, your life changes drastically.
Jennifer Grandy, national director of TNT, echoed Watterson’s advice and mirrored tenets of Galloway’s program by offering the following tips: n Have a goal. TNT participants raise funds for cancer research and patient assistance. Whether your goal is fundraising or raising the stakes on your workout, inspiration will keep you motivated on the tough days and through the three to six month regime it takes to train. n Set your sights on finishing the race, not winning the race. If you’re a beginner, don’t worry about your time to the finish line. Concentrate on getting to the finish line. n Join a team. Galloway’s program has teams in more than 60 cities. TNT trains for events nationwide (teamintraining.org). Being part of a team keeps you engaged, provides a support system, offers guidance and makes the experience more enjoyable. n Start slowly and gradually increase your mileage. Coaches recommend beginning with 20 minutes of exercise two to
three times a week with a training session on the weekend. Sessions start with a three-mile walk, run or run-walk, with an increase of one mile a week; your speed should start out slow and finish strong. Depending on the event, your fitness goal and the program, training may vary in the final weeks. n Pain is not gain. Good training ensures that you’re not in pain throughout the regime and during the event. Stretch, cool down and take at least one day a week off to prevent injury. Make sure you have the right shoes and the right shoe size — feet swell through the course of a workout — and that you’re wearing clothes that breathe. If you’re sick or injured, hold off on training and allow your body to heal. n Refuel your body by staying hydrated and consuming enough nutrition for training. Now that you’ve got the tips, what are you waiting for? It’s time to hit the pavement and then pave the way for your fitness dreams. Article by Creators News Service.
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CNS photo courtesy of More Magazine
No matter who you are, you too can reach the finish line if you want to train for a marathon. However, don’t forget it takes time and work to go the 26.2 miles.
What you used to hold as boundaries for yourself no longer exist, and that extends to every aspect of your life.” When Watterson joined TNT for the second time in 2006, he’d taken up smoking again, hadn’t trained and, until his boss was diagnosed with cancer, lost the motivation that propelled him in previous years. Now he’s a running coach and an Ironman Triathlon alumnus. Your motivation may be different, but with the right guidance, your goals are just as attainable. “You don’t have to be young or skinny or fast to do a marathon,” said Darlene Miller, national program director at Jeff Galloway Training Programs. “Galloway’s approach is to bring the marathon to the everyman.” So now that you know you can do it, how do you start shaping those fitness dreams into a healthy reality? Miller explained the run-walk-run method Galloway designed and trademarked in 1978. “The idea most people have is that you have to run straight through or get to the place where you run the entire event,” she said. “If you take a walk break occasionally, you’re saving strength for the longer miles… and you can run farther than you thought you could. It allows you to gradually increase your mileage, find a pace and prevent injury.” The Galloway Run-Walk-Run is the crux of Galloway’s national training program (jeffgalloway.com/training/), but the elements of a run-walk regime are tried and true practices used by trainers nationwide. The slow-and-steady approach is also a universal tenet to endurance training programs, especially for beginners. Whether your finish line ends at the half-marathon mark, extends to the full 26.2-mile marathon, or includes the cycle, swim and varying durations of a triathlon, experts agree the key to making the mark is all in the training. The name of the game is injury prevention, making it to the finish line and, if you’re running for a cause, making a difference.
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DowntownNews.com
February 2, 2009
photos by Gary Leonard
14 Downtown News
Good meals, creative pastries and a welcoming neighborhood have made the Nickel Diner, founded by Monica May (left) and Kristen Trattner, a standout in the Historic Core.
A Nickel for Your Thoughts Throwback Diner on the Edge of Skid Row Is Drawing Crowds by Richard Guzmán city editor
T
he Nickel Diner on Main Street looks and feels like it has been there for decades. It has wood furniture, red leather booths and elegant lamps hanging from the ceiling. Old menus painted on the wall advertise 30 cent chili with beans and 20 cent draft beers. Although the atmosphere evokes a 1940s neighborhood hangout, in reality The Nickel has been open only a little more than six months. But in that short time, thanks to its comfort food menu and solid neighborhood connections, it has earned a reputation worthy of a more established and historic spot. With new hours scheduled to begin in mid-February that will keep it open late in the night, it is sure to attract more customers to a gritty but increasingly trendy part of Downtown Los Angeles. “It’s been quite a ride,” said Monica May, the co-owner and chef at the spot at 524 S. Main St. It sits near Skid Row and is flanked by low-income hotels and new retail shops. May, who also owns Banquette, a popular wine bar and cafe a block north of the Nickel, and her business partner Kristen Trattner, whose previous career was doing visual effects in Hollywood, opened the diner in September with the simple aim of “feeding the neighborhood,” May said. The neighborhood responded, and since the September debut the 50-seat space has attracted local residents and workers. It has also secured attention from beyond Downtown; in December, Los Angeles Magazine named it one of the top new restaurants in the city. “We’re a little diner run by two white girls in the middle of Skid Row. I mean, what are the chances that we would become this poster child lighting rod for the new Downtown? That was not our intent,” May said.
“Our intent for this place was to make it our neighborhood hangout for our friends and people who live and work Downtown, and now outside of Downtown has discovered us.” May and Trattner discovered the spot that would become the Nickel Diner — the moniker comes from an old nickname for the Skid Row area around Fifth Street — when it was a pigeon-infested, abandoned space about two years ago. After tearing down wooden panels they discovered old menus painted on the walls (it turned out the building once housed a restaurant) and decided to keep them. Trattner worked on redesigning the restaurant in a comfortable but classic style. “I wanted to make it a space where you couldn’t tell if it was always this way or not,” she said. All About the Food Of course, looks alone don’t account for the swift success. Credit for that also goes to the menu, which reflects classic diner fare meshed with a modern Downtown nod. Breakfast options include eggs any style with bacon, ham or heirloom house beans, which come from a friend of May’s who grows them in Napa Valley. Those can be paired with spicy Italian or chicken apple sausage. Classic Huevos Rancheros are on the menu with Mexican Crema. There’s also the Fifth and Main, a spicy barbecue pork hash topped with two eggs. “Being able to cook an egg is a fine art. Not many people can do it. I enjoy our egg dishes,” May said. Taking into account the many vegetarians in Downtown, May provides breakfast choices such as Tofu Scrambled Spinach and the Vegan Ranchero Tofu. Lunch is as comforting and familiar as breakfast, though one item, the Smac and Cheese, pokes fun at the area’s history as a hub of heroin sales. Other choices include burgers, Monica’s Chicken Pozole with cilantro,
avocado and lime, and the popular and spicy pulled pork sandwich. “We cook about 30 pounds of pork every day,” May said. Save Room for Dessert While most people come to the Nickel for the main courses, the work of adventurous pastry chef Sharlena Fong, who like May and Trattner is a Downtown resident, has quickly gained notoriety. Fong’s specialty is creating unusual combinations of classic American pastries. One such example is the homemade maple bacon doughnut, which comes with maple syrup glaze and apple-smoked bacon. “It’s like getting your French toast and having your maple syrup run into your bacon,” May said. Another creation was tailor-made for May, who said she doesn’t have a sweet tooth, but when it comes to snacking prefers potato chips and peanuts. Thus Fong offered a dessert called the Salt Peanut. “It’s a chocolate cake that is totally decadent, totally sweet, but it has fried candy-coated peanuts and a layer of potato chips in it,” said May. “It starts really chocolaty and it finishes rich, but it goes off on a slightly savory note.” Trattner also designed her own pastry, the Cher cupcake, but is less willing to give away its secret. “I can’t tell you what’s in it, so you’ll just have to know that Cher was the motivator,” she said. The upcoming dinner service will give May the chance to design a menu rich in classic fare like beef stew, chicken, pan-roasted salmon, spaghetti and meatballs, burgers and even vegetarian choices like the Rooty Tooty Vegetable Cassoulet, with vegetables, cannelloni beans and pasta baked in a vegetable broth topped with bread crumbs and parmesan cheese. May also makes her own sauces, including jam and salsa, which is a testament to her goal of preparing good, simple food. “We want food that tastes like it’s made by hand, not from a can,” May said. The Nickel Diner is at 524 S. Main St., (213) 623-8301 or 5cdiner.com. Open Tuesday-Sunday 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Evening hours begin later this month. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.
February 2, 2009
Downtown News 15
Restaurants
Side Dish
A Second Look at Church & State
Barbecue King You can’t keep a king away from his castle for long, as The Original Texas Barbecue King proved when the popular barbecue joint returned to Downtown Los Angeles last year. Famous at its previous City West location for its smoker on the street, the restaurant has moved to a spot in South Los Angeles. But there is a Downtown outpost in the Financial District where fans can get all the favorites. Try the Texas-style ribs ($9) or the popular Sampler basket ($11) with ribs, chicken, beef and links. Be sure to get a side order of macaroni and cheese ($2.50). The new spot is small, with only a handful of tables, so take-out orders are recommended. At 525 W. Seventh St., (213) 627-7555 or texasbbqking.com.
New Chef Puts His Spin On the Arts District Restaurant by Jon RegaRdie executive editoR
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hurch & State in the Arts District was one of Downtown’s most anticipated restaurant launches last year. That is also why, just a couple months after its September opening, the restaurant garnered so much attention for a nasty split with its founding chef, Greg Bernhardt. A few months later, things seem to be getting under control. The restaurant founded by Steven Arroyo has a new chef, Walter Manzke, and a new maître d’, Joshua Goldman. Both had spent time at Bastide, the upscale and acclaimed West Hollywood establishment. Some things have changed at C&S. Although the menu retains its French Bistro fare, it seems a little simpler and easier to navigate. The Boeuf Bourguignon and the Blanquette de Veau, two stew-like dishes, were off the menu during a recent lunch visit. Under Manzke, a standout item is the sandwich with seared tuna, tomato, cucumbers and olives. Actually, “sandwich” is a bit misleading; rather than tuna fish between soft bread, this is more like a Nicoise salad, with bright red hunks of fish, spread openface across a long bit of crusty bread and punched up with anchovies. Although it’s common in the south of France, it’s a rare find in Downtown Los Angeles. The French onion soup is massive and comes with a thick skin, and there’s a surprise in store for those who order the roasted marrow bone — you get a Flintstonesized offering sliced down the center with
Liberty Grill
Sultan Chicken Besides the heaping portions, Sultan Chicken has something few spots Downtown provide: curbside service. Just call ahead with your order and, once you get there, call again on your cell phone so they can dash out with your food. Make sure to bring a healthy appetite, since the portions are big and you won’t want to leave any leftovers. The Half Chicken Plate ($7.50) is popular, as are the kebabs ($8), with choices such as beef or chicken. At 311 W. Sixth St., (213) 236-0604.
photo by Gary Leonard
Church & State in the Biscuit Company Lofts has a new chef. The French bistro approach remains, though the menu is easier to navigate.
creamy goodness ready to be scooped out. Again, it’s something different in Downtown. Manzke is still getting his feet wet, and one senses that he has not put his full imprint yet on the menu. But signs are encouraging. Who knows, at Church & State, the second time might be the charm. At 1850 Industrial St., (213) 405-1434 or churchandstatebistro.com. Contact Jon Regardie at regardie@downtownenws.com.
This South Park eatery is in a renovated Mission-style building with Americana decor and a huge covered patio featuring views of Downtown. For lunch, there’s meatloaf with smoked bacon, while the secret recipe chicken noodle soup will cure what ails you. Dinner brings barbecued baby back ribs, pork chops braised in red cabbage, herb-roasted half chicken and a trio of pizzas. American wines, beers on tap and cocktails like the pomegranate martini or the raspberry mojito round out the menu. At 1037 S. Flower St., (213) 7463400 or liberty-grill.com.
Fisherman’s Outlet As lunch destinations go, Fisherman’s Outlet is the equivalent of stumbling onto a good fishing hole in the mighty Los Angeles River. All around are plates piled high with deep-fried fish, sand dabs, crab cakes, catfish strips and charbroiled entrees ranging from halibut to lobster tail. The New England clam chowder is creamy, rich and pleasant, while the lobster bisque is decent, but a tad too salty. The Fisherman’s Outlet also features an adjoining wholesale seafood market, which boasts fillets of tuna, red snapper, swordfish steaks, colossal shrimp (coming six to eight per pound), and a seafood salad bar. Nothing fancy, but long on charm with solid seafood cooking, the Fisherman’s Outlet is a definite keeper. At 529 S. Central Ave., (213) 627-7231. Free parking behind restaurant. Enter on Central or Ceres, just south of Fifth Street.
An Extensive Seafood Menu including Dim Sum at Moderate Prices Relaxed Dining in an Elegant Ambiance Live Lobster Tank
Free Parking Next to Restaurant
700 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | Tel: 213.617.2323 | Fax: 213.617.0065
Now we’re open at Night! The new Urth Caffe Downtown is now open from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Located at 451 S. Hewitt St Los Angeles, CA 90013
between 4th and 5th St. 2 blocks east of Alameda • (213) 797-4534
One Free Cappuccino or Tea latte with any purchase* *Must mention this ad. Exp. 2/28/09. One per person. One time use. Not redeemable for cash. Valid only after 4:00 PM
w w w. u r t h c a f f e . c o m
Gill’s Indian Restaurant Free Delivery Downtown!
All You Can Eat Buffet $8.95+Tax
Tandori Chicken, Meat Curry, Two Vegetables Dal, Pullao Rice, Naan, Salad, Dessert, Fruits and much more!
Open Mon-Fri: Lunch 11:30am-2:30pm Dinner 5:30pm-10pm
gillsindianrestaurant.net • (213) 623-1050 • 838 S. Grand Ave.
Sushi & Japanese Food BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER
FREE!
f
*
by L
• Drive Thru Dine in • Take OuT g h • Dinner • caTerin BreakfasT • Lunc
open 7 days a week, 11 am - 10 pm 120 Japanese Village plaza (Little Tokyo)
(213) 680-0567
Gourmet Fast Casual Restaurant Since 1973 FREE Parking | 7 Days-7am to 10pm 1657 W. 3rd St. [at Union Ave.] (213) 483-8885
Validated Parking (Enter on Central Ave.) or use DASH Route A–Bus
* 2nd item must be of equal or lesser value. Present ad at time of purchase, 1 coupon per customer, per visit.
Regent China Inn
why Cook?
Authentic Chinese Cuisine in Chinatown
catering specials available!
12.95
$
Lunch Special
4.95 Saturday & Sunday 11-3
$
Weekdays 11-5
DELIVERY • DINE-IN • TAKE-OUT • CATERING
316 E. 1st St. • (213) 626-4046
Featuring
sashimi, yakitori, Tempura, different kinds of sushi
Extensive Health Menu Available
Lobster Special
Open: Mon.-Thurs. 9a.m.-10p.m., Fri.-Sun. 8a.m.-10p.m.
SHIers Original Revolving T SU S ead E R B ews D VOT.AE. Downtown N Sushi Counter in LA!
Buy 1 Hamburger Combo and get a 2nd Hamburger Combo
739-747 N. Main St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 Tel: 213-680-3333 • Fax: 213-680-3507 www.regentchinainn.com
F r e e P a r k i n g
10 PieCe sPeCiAL
Now Accepting Credit Cards
Free Delivery With minimum order of $10. Only when available. Limited area & hours.
Party Paks Available
thighs & Legs
2 Downtown Locations Corner of BroADwAy & 3rd 260 S. Broadway
L.A., CA 90012 (213) 626-7975 • (213) 626-8235
Tel/Fx:
with Tortillas & Salsa
(213) 626-4572
onLy
226 E. 9th St.
$9.99 + TAX
FAshion DistriCt at corner 9th/Santee (213) 623-5091 • (213) 327-0645
Tel/Fx:
(213) 623-9405
16 Downtown News
February 2, 2009
DowntownNews.com
CALENDAR
g n i k a M e h t n i Music
photo by Gary Leonard
After a 45-minute interview in the 200-seat Grammy Soundstage, Charlie Haden picked up his bass for a performance with pianist Alan Broadbent. The new venue features major names and ticket prices that rarely exceed $20.
Downtown’s Newest Concert Venue Brings Big Names to a Small Stage by Ryan VaillancouRt staff wRiteR
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ount Glendale resident Peter Goul among the dedicated fan base of legendary songwriter Brian Wilson. Goul has seen the Beach Boys founder dozens of times, mostly at large, storied venues like the Hollywood Bowl and the Wiltern Theatre. But the best seat he’s ever had for a Wilson concert came with the lowest price that he ever paid to see the star. Minutes after that memorable Jan. 15 show, Goul marveled that he had just spent two hours sitting a couple dozen feet from Wilson, who gave an in-depth interview and performance with his six-piece band, for $20. The concert was at the Grammy Soundstage, a 200-seat theater inside the new Grammy Museum at L.A. Live. During regular museum hours, the mini-theater shows the short documentary “The Making of a Grammy Moment.” But at night, it hosts interviews and performances with big-name artists like Wilson. At the $2.5 billion L.A. Live complex, where parking can cost $40 and dinner for two can run north of $200, $20 tickets for Grammy Museum events feel like a steal to some. “The value tonight was great,” said Fullerton resident Cain Smith after the Wilson event. “That was like a party that you were going to and you were included. The only thing missing was champagne and cheese.” The party continues this week as the venue, in anticipation of the Feb. 8 Grammy Awards, will host New Orleans R&B man Allen Toussaint on Feb. 5 and children’s music duo Trout Fishing in America on the morning of Feb. 6. That night, the venue will showcase musicians nominated this year in the Hawaiian Music categories. On Feb. 13, Annie Lennox will perform. Other prominent names will follow. Big Names, Small Stage Although it is equipped with the kind of state-of-the-art sound and lighting gear one expects in major performance venues, the Grammy Soundstage is only about the size of a high-school band platform; it was just large enough to accommodate Brian Wilson and his group, and the musicians had little room to maneuver.
Another difference from most venues played by big-name performers is that the artists don’t enter the theater from some luxurious green room behind the stage. While the facility includes a small green room, the building’s size and architecture didn’t allow for a rear entrance. Thus, performers tend to skip the green room, stroll down the same hallway as ticket holders and walk up the steps on the side of the stage. As the audience for a Jan. 21 Charlie Haden event watched an introductory video snippet from an upcoming documentary about the storied bassist, Haden himself took in the film segment while leaning against a wall inside the theater for all to see.
enough to merit major public events, but small enough that it facilitates intimacy and fits within the building’s abnormal footprint, said Jeremy Regenbogen, creative director for museum architect Gallagher and Associates. “It’s an interesting dilemma for a museum that size to have such a mega-talent in there and they could have filled much more people, but creating a space that large would have created other problems for exhibit space, which they desperately needed as well,” Regenbogen said. From the Horse’s Mouth Much like an art museum strives to bolster its permanent collection or a library amasses archives of original texts, the Grammy
photo courtesy of Mark Sullivan/Wire Image
Beach Boys founder Brian Wilson (center, sitting) and his band were the first to give a performance at the intimate Grammy Soundstage.
“The goal is really to take artists and put them on that soundstage so that the distance between artist and audience is diminished or even disappears,” said Bob Santelli, the museum’s executive director. “I love the fact that they have to walk through to get there. Again, it’s the attempt to diminish the distance between audience and artist. That’s what everybody wants, the opportunity to say, ‘I saw this artist up close and personal.’” The principal design objective for the space was to create a theater that feels large
Museum is geared toward showcasing, cataloguing and preserving music history. The public programs are recorded for audio and video archives that will live on at the museum. If the live shows are for current fans, the recordings might be for the college music major in 20 years doing a term paper on Brian Wilson and the Beach Boys, Santelli said. Most programs begin with a discussion between the artist and Santelli, a longtime music journalist who has helped put together several major music museums. The talks
tend to reveal the kind of personal stories that don’t come printed in the liner notes of CDs, and they certainly aren’t told to massive crowds inside large venues. Asked about the prominence of surfing in the lyrics of the Beach Boys, Wilson, the man who described all the sunny details of 1960s Southern California surf culture in songs like “Surfin’ USA,” “Surfer Girl” and “The Rocking Surfer,” told the audience that he never actually stepped on a board. “You know what, I never surfed,” Wilson said. He wasn’t kidding. At the Haden event, the jazzman recalled being held in a Portuguese jail in 1971, while on tour with Ornette Coleman and other jazz greats, for dedicating a song to the black liberation movements in Portugal’s African colonies. That story bled into others about playing in smoky Los Angeles jazz clubs until the sun came up, and functioned as a preface to a short performance with pianist Alan Broadbent. “This, you won’t get at the Hollywood Bowl,” Santelli said. Supply and demand would dictate that the Grammy Soundstage could command ticket prices well above what the museum charges — between $15 and $20 — but the institution has no plans to jack up the fees once the theater is discovered en masse, Santelli said. Priority will, however, go to museum members (a one-year membership costs $40). When shows are announced, members will have a three-day advance window to purchase tickets. A portion of the seats will always be reserved for the public, Santelli said. While the museum will host some fundraisers and events in partnership with sponsors, who would have more sway in dictating price, the plan is to keep tickets affordable. “I’m always reserving some for the public because I want new people to come,” Santelli said. “The idea is to make them accessible to fans and the community. That’s what a public institution is supposed to do and I intend to follow it.” The Grammy Museum is at 800 W Olympic Blvd., Suite A245, (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org. Contact Ryan Vaillancourt at ryan@downtownnews.com.
February 2, 2009
Downtown News 17
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This ‘Pippin’ Pops Taper Production Presents Deft Mix of Singing and Sign Language by Jeff favre contributing writer
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ny doubt that director Jeff Calhoun deserves recognition as one of theater’s most groundbreaking artists was erased at the recent opening night revival of the 1972 musical Pippin by Stephen Schwartz (music and lyrics) and Roger O. Hirson (book). If you missed Calhoun’s previous collaborations with Deaf West Theatre — Oliver!, Big River and Sleeping Beauty Wakes — then Pippin will stun and amaze you with its ability to seamlessly combine hearing and hearing-impaired actors simultaneously performing music and American Sign Language. The show at the Mark Taper Forum in Downtown Los Angeles continues through March 15. Calhoun didn’t simply invent the deaf musical, he established a quality level for the new genre that equals or surpasses Broadwaycaliber mainstream productions. In other words, this Pippin isn’t simply good for a deaf musical, it’s as powerful a translation of the material as Los Angeles has seen in years. That’s because most of this two-and-ahalf hour, non-stop foray into self-discovery is loaded with sharp comedy, exhilarating vocals and Calhoun touches that deepen the meaning of the text and strengthen the story’s emotional impact. With all that, it’s easy to forgive a new, unremarkable song by Schwartz. The show’s highlight is Ty Taylor, who as
the Leading Player delivers a performance that makes it worth mentioning the role’s originator, Ben Vereen (who attended opening night). Taylor signs while singing so effortlessly that the hand movements become pure dance as he introduces the story of Pippin, a young man who wants to find his purpose in life. Calhoun’s most ingenious twist is to use a magic trick during the opening song, “Magic to Do,” to “cut” the title character into two halves — one in the forefront who signs (Tyrone Giordano) and one in the background who speaks and sings (Michael Arden). Pippin’s journey takes him into an unfulfilling war under the rule of his father, King Charles (Troy Kotsur, voiced by Dan Callaway), and beside his self-obsessed brother Lewis (James Royce Harris). After that, he seeks advice from his grandmother, Berthe (Harriet Harris). He tries finding meaning in sex, religion and power, eventually trying the simple life with the widowed Catherine (Melissa van der Schyff) and her young son Theo (Jose F. Lopez, Jr.). Through it all, the Leading Player and his nefarious group of facilitators attempt to guide Pippin to a blazing grand finale. There are no weak links in the cast, though Taylor is a standout. He brings the charisma and ruthlessness that make the Leading Player both magnetic and repellant. His powerful voice and athletic dancing make him the focal point whenever he’s on stage. The Pippins mirror each other’s actions
photo by Craig Schwartz
As the Leading Player, Ty Taylor headlines a uniformly strong cast of Pippin. The show at the Mark Taper Forum continues through March 15.
and emotions, particularly in “Corner of the Sky,” where Giordano’s wondrous expressions and signing express Arden’s soaring vocals. Harris nearly steals the show with her one big number, “No Time at All.” Calhoun’s choreography is more simplistic than the original iconic moves created by Bob Fosse, but the director pays homage in fun ways, including having disembodied hands appear from holes in the stage floor. Another memorable addition is Giordano and van der Schyff performing “Love Song” with their shadows splashed across a white curtain — their signs become flowing shadows. Pippin deals with magic, and this production neatly incorporates several illusions (de-
signed by Jim Steinmeyer). Also effective are Tobin Ost’s brightly colored costumes and multifaceted set design, dominated by a “Pippin” sign that is brilliantly lit and hung over a blood red curtain. The production’s unsung heroes are Linda Bove and Alan Champion, who translated the text and lyrics into conceptually accurate sign language that can be conveyed in time with the spoken word. Without their work, the show would fall into disarray. This is a Pippin for the ages, directed by one of theater’s most creative minds. Pippin runs through March 15 at the Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 6282772, or centertheatregroup.org.
February 11, 2008
Love Means A box of chocolates, a dozen roses and your message in Downtown News.
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LOVE LI
ExprEss your amour in our romantic LovE LinEs Edition — February 9 dEadLinE for EntriEs — February 3
Sistas!...We are loved, adored, desired, envied and don’t forget it…Dorothy
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LA Live…Will you marry me?…Downtown
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18 Downtown News
February 2, 2009
DowntownNews.com
LISTINGS The
t ’ n ‘Dos’ s i 1 M
SPONSORED LISTINGS World Marriage Day Champagne Brunch Center at Cathedral Plaza, 555 W. Temple St., (213) 680-5273 or cbartlett@levyrestaurants.com. Feb. 8, 11 a.m. 3 p.m.: Levy Restaurants host the Annual World Marriage Day Champagne Brunch at the Cathedral of our Lady of the Angels. Celebrate love, family and friends at the cathedral. Reservations required. For mass information, contact (213) 680-5203. For reservations, contact (213) 680-5273. Allston Yacht Club Opens Allston Yacht Club, 1320 Echo Park Ave., (213) 481-0454 or allstonyachtclub.com. New Echo Park restaurant Allston Yacht Club is open. The new eatery features small plate dining, with eclectic choices like cedarplank salmon, merguez sausage and peppers, house-smoked pork ribs, roasted brussels sprouts, chayote squash with saffron, parmesan fricos, brandade and more. There’s also a wide selection of wines by the glass and a full bar with imaginative house drinks. It’s a friendly, intimate atmosphere, minutes from Downtown. A Sunday special features three selected plates for $16 and selected bottles of wine for $20.
List
Talking, Running And Saying Yes to Noh by AnnA Scott, StAff writer
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This week, just say yes to Noh. A centuries-old form of classic Japanese musical drama, Noh comes to Little Tokyo’s Aratani/Japan America Theatre on Friday, Feb. 6, at 7 p.m., when classically trained performers from the Kanze School of Noh in Kyoto make their U.S. debut. The company will perform the drama Atsumori, which follows a Minamoto warrior haunted by the ghost of another young warrior he killed in battle. Spooky! 244 S. San Pedro St., (213) 680-3700 or jacc.org.
photo by Harold Alexander
Tuesday, Feb. 3 ALOUD at Central Library 630 W. 5th St., (213) 228-7241 or lapl.org. 7 p.m.: Harvard sociologist Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot joins author and journalist Barbara Isenberg to discuss “The Third Chapter: Passion, Risk & Adventure in the 25 Years After 50.”
Photos co urtesy
This weekend, two legendary local entertainers come together for a birthday extravaganza. Self-styled pop culture expert Charles Phoenix, known for his retro slide shows and colorful coffee table books, will host a two-day, 85th birthday celebration for puppeteer Bob Baker, a City West fixture for almost 50 years. The evening will include film clips chronicling Baker’s life, a performance of the barnyard-themed marionette musical Something to Crow About and puppetry by Baker himself. The party takes place Friday, Feb. 6, and Saturday, Feb. 7, at 8:30 p.m. Bob Baker Marionette Theater, 1345 W. First St., (213) 250-9995. Tickets at charlesphoenix.com.
of the Kanze School o f Noh
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Monday, Feb. 2 Fiesta De La Candelaria El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, 200 N. Main St., (213) 625-7074 or cityofla.org/elp. 6-8:30 p.m.: The Olvera Street merchants celebrate the end of the Christmas season with a festive, candlelit procession on Olvera Street. Participants are encouraged to bring an elaborately dressed doll to be blessed. Best-dressed doll winners will receive a prize. There will be complimentary refreshments and live entertainment.
Wednesday, Feb. 4 ALOUD at Central Library 630 W. 5th St., (213) 228-7241 or lapl.org. 7 p.m.: Here yesterday, gone today, the planet Pluto has had a tough go of it. Astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, director of the American Museum of Natural History’s Hayden Planetarium, and Griffith Observatory curator Laura Danly break down the (formerly) ninth planet’s rise and fall in a discussion called “The Pluto Files.” SCI-Arc Lecture Series Sci-Arc, Keck Lecture Hall, 960 E. Third St., (213) 623-2200 or sciarc.edu. 7 p.m.: Hien Ngo Quan, founding principal of NQH Architects in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and a SCI-Arc graduate of 1993, presents “Vision to Reality.” The Vietnamese American has contributed to several urban design projects with unique building design around the world. Thursday, Feb. 5 Thursdays at Central Central Library, 630 W. 5th St., Meeting Room A, (213) 228-7241 or lapl.org. 12:15-1 p.m.: Planning an Oscar Party? Come get updates on nomination news, screening reviews and get party tips for the 81st Academy Awards on Feb. 22. ALOUD at Central Library 630 W. 5th St., (213) 228-7241 or lapl.org. 7 p.m.: Some use religious texts as guides for living meaningful lives, but you could turn to science too, says Berkeley psychology professor Dacher Keltner. He and USC neuroscience professor Antoine Bechara discuss “Born to be Good: The Science of a Meaningful Life.” Friday, Feb. 6 Farmlab Public Salons 1745 N. Spring St. #4, (323) 226-1158 or farmlab.org Noon-1 p.m.: Chris Carlsson, executive director of the multimedia history project Shaping San Francisco, leads a discussion called “Nowtopia: How Pirate Programmers, Outlaw Bicyclists, and Vacantlot Gardeners are Inventing the Future Today.” Bob Baker’s 85th Birthday Party and Puppet Show Bob Baker Marionette Theater, 1345 W. First St., (213) 250-9995 or bobbakermarionettes.com. 8:30 p.m.: Entertainer, author and pop-culture exContinued on page 19
Snap, crackle, pop and go! Sunday, Feb. 8, marks the 31st annual Los Angeles Chinatown Firecracker Run, which has been expanded into a weekend-long celebration with a new, second race; a 20-mile Fun Bike Ride begins at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 7. Last-minute registration for the run begins at 6 a.m. Sunday, followed by the traditional lighting of 100,000 firecrackers and the race kick-off at 8 a.m. Races begin at the Chinatown Central Plaza at 943 N. Broadway. Live music and entertainment will also take over Central Plaza on Saturday from 10 a.m.-10 p.m. and Sunday from noon-4 p.m. (323) 2561363 or firecracker10k.org. photo by Sherwood Lee
EVENTS
On Monday, Feb. 2, the Z ocalo lecture Los Angeles series hosts “A Police Chief W merica’s Top illiam Bratto Bratton will d Cop,” aka n , at the Centr iscuss his ten al Library at ure and its im goals and ch 7 :30 p.m. pact on the LA allenges, an PD, the depar d future pla Garment & C tment’s ns in a conv itizen Editorersation mo Publisher Jerr d be lively, but e ra ted by y Sullivan. Th don’t think yo e discussion u can weasel p ro ing up. 524 S mises to out of your la . Flower St., zo st traffic ticke calopublicsq t b y showuare.org.
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Talk about food for thought. On Friday, Feb. 6, from noon-1 p.m., use your lunch break to visit think tank/ performance venue FarmLab, which hosts writer/ publisher/community organizer Chris Carlsson in a discussion titled “Nowtopia: How Pirate Programmers, Outlaw Bicyclists, and Vacant-lot Gardens Are Inventing the Future Today.” In other words, the conversation will examine how people are increasingly directing their time and technological know-how toward improving their own quality of life, and creating new social networks in the process. 1745 N. Spring St., #4, (323) 226-1158 or farmlab.org. Contact Anna Scott at anna@downtownnews.com.
photo courtesy of Chris Carlsson
February 2, 2009
Downtown News 19
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But Wait, There’s More!
Listings for additional concerts, exhibits and more in Downtown Los Angeles can be found on our website. Go to downtownnews.com/listings for full information, including time and location, for all the happenings in Downtown.
Additional Event Information on the Web
DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM/LISTINGS : EVENTS | ROCK, POP & JAZZ | CLASSICAL MUSIC | THEATER, OPERA & DANCE ART SPACES | FILM | BARS & CLUBS | MUSEUMS | FARMERS MARKETS | TOURS
Listings Continued from page 18 pert Charles Phoenix hosts a tribute to puppet man Bob Baker, who is turning 85. Phoenix will show slides and film clips to tell Baker’s unique life story prior to a performance of Baker’s classic barnyardthemed marionette musical “Something to Crow About.” Birthday cake and ice cream with Baker will follow. Also on Saturday, Feb. 7 at 8:30 p.m. Traditional Japanese Noh Aratani/Japan America Theatre, 244 S. San Pedro St., (213) 680-3700 or jaccc.org. 7 p.m.: The Japanese American Cultural and Community Center presents the Kanze School of Noh. Performed since the 14th century in Japan, noh is a highly stylized form of narrative performance. Actor Shizuka Mikata joins four other classically trained performers in the drama “Atsumori,” the story of a seasoned warrior and the ghost of a younger fighter he killed in battle. First Fridays at Natural History Museum 900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 763-DINO or nhm.org/firstfridays. 5:30-10 p.m.: The popular event series pays tribute to Charles Darwin with educational forums, exhibitions and rock music. Occidental geology professor Don Prothero looks at the evidence for evolution from the fossil record and the implications of evolution for science and society, and museum curator Lawrence Barnes shows off the highlights of the Vertebrate Paleontology collection. Bands include The Bird and the Bee and Jukebox The Ghost. The Phatal DJ and Michael Stock will spin throughout the evening. Visit www.nhm.org/ firstfridays. Saturday, Feb. 7 Critter Club at the Natural History Museum 900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 763-3230 or nhm.org. All day: Critter Club is hands-on fun for 3-5 year olds and a participating adult. African American Storytelling Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., (213) 972-4396 or musiccenter.org. 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.: Music Center resident artist and award-winning storyteller Diane Ferlatte enthralls audiences of all ages while singing, playing instruments and telling folktales, fables, nursery rhymes and personal stories rooted in African, Southern and African American cultures. The shows are free. Ticket distribution at Second Street and Grand Avenue starts at 10 a.m. International Festival of Cinema and Technology Downtown Independent, 251 S. Main St., downtownindependent.com. 11:30 a.m.- 9:30 p.m.: The International Fest of Cinema and Technology goes down all day Saturday and Sunday. Now in its sixth year, the festival specializes in screening new animation and experimental films, but this year includes an array of narrative and documentary features and shorts as well. For a full schedule, visit ifct.org. Reading at Metropolis Books 440 S. Main St., (213) 612-0174 or metropolisbooksla.com. 5 p.m.: Author Pam Ward will read and discuss
her new novel “Bad Girls Burn Slow.” Science Matters Series at California Science Center 700 Exposition Park Dr., (323) SCIENCE or californiasciencecenter.org. 1-3 p.m.: The “Science Matters” speakers program will examine a growing trend in substance abuse with “Prescription Drugs: Good Medicine – Bad Behavior.” Featured panelists will provide an overview of the science behind addiction and treatment. Panelists will also debate what should happen to prevent this abuse. All About the Globe-Morosco Theatre 744 S. Broadway, (213) 999-5067 or lahtf.org. 10:30 a.m.: Theater historian and activist Ed Kelsey leads a tour and history lesson about the old Morosco Theatre, which now houses the 740 Club. The event is part of the Los Angeles Historic Theatre Foundation’s “All About” series, which aims to educate and encourage people to become active in protecting and ensuring the city’s old theaters.
Feb. 8, 2-5 p.m.: The cafe continues its Sundays Downtown series with tributes to Hank Williams, James Taylor and Jackson Brown, as performed by John Harlan, Nick Zork and Aaron Beaumont. Café Metropol 923 E. 3rd St., (213) 613-1537 or cafemetropol.com. Feb. 6: The Chuck Manning Quartet, featuring Jim Szilagyi on piano, Isla Eckinger on bass and Tim Pleasant on drums. Casey’s Irish Bar and Grill 613 S. Grand Ave., (213) 629-2353 or bigcaseys.com. Fridays: Live Irish music. Chop Suey Café 347 E. First St., (213) 617-9990 or chopsueycafe.com. Thursdays, 7:30-9:30 p.m.: Live jazz on the patio of the restored landmark.
Please email Your event info To submit events for this section, please email a brief description, street address and a public phone number to calendar@ downtownnews.com. Web addresses are welcome. Listings are due 10 days before publication date. Because of time constraints, submissions without full information cannot be considered for publication. Inclusion in the listings is at the discretion of the L.A. Downtown News. Sorry, we cannot accept follow-up calls about event listings.
Sunday, Feb. 8 Chinatown Firecracker Run Chinatown Central Plaza, 947 N. Broadway, (323) 256-1363 or firecracker10k.org. 8 a.m.: Celebrate the lunar New Year with the 31st annual Los Angeles Chinatown Firecracker 5K/10k Run. The scenic run, which starts in Chinatown with the lighting of 100,000 firecrackers and circles Dodger Stadium, benefits local educational, fitness and literacy programs. Late registration starts at 6 a.m.
ROCK, POP & JAZZ 2nd Street Jazz 366 E. Second St., (213) 680-0047, 2ndstjazz.com or myspace.com/2ndstreetlivejazz. Music usually starts at 9 or 10 p.m. Tuesdays: Jazz jam session. 626 Reserve 626 S. Spring St., (213) 627-9800 or 626reserve.com. Tuesdays, 6 p.m.: Live music with Goh Kurosawa. Thursdays, 6 p.m.: More live sounds, this time with Jessie Torrez. Automat 936 Chung King Rd., (213) 617-0422. Jan. 24, 8 p.m.: The band Department of Real Estate performs jazzy, improvisational ambient music with invented instruments. Bar 107 107 W. Fourth St., (213) 625-7382 or myspace.com/bar107. Tuesdays: A classic island mix of reggae with attitude. Jah! Wednesdays: The world famous (or at least in L.A.) Bar 107 Karaoke Gong Show. Come join the fun and help the judges vote for the best act of the evening. Sundays: DJ’s choice with 107’s Matt Dwyer, the comic-actor genius who plays music while serving the meanest drinks (in the nicest way) Downtown. Blue Velvet 750 S. Garland Ave., (213) 239-0061. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 p.m.: Live music and DJs. Café Corsa 2238 S. Figueroa St., (213) 746-2604 or cafecorsala.com.
Continued on page 19
A HAndy MAP RefeRence To food, ATTRAcTions & enTeRTAinMenT F
Where to Eat
_
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§ Where to Live
§F § §
C5 C5 B5
Grand Tower • 255 S. Grand Ave. Museum Tower • 225 S. Olive St. Promenade Towers • 123 S. Figueroa St.
229-9777 626-1500 617-3777
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B8
The Metropolitan Apartments • 950 S. Flower St.
489-3300
7+FIG • 7th & Figueroa Sts.
955-7150
Ernst & Young • 725 S. Figueroa St.
955-7100
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624-1011
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687-2001 687-2190
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• Angels Flight Railway • 4th St. & Hill St.
626-1901
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688-7777 896-3822 688-7880 896-3812
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Downtown Dental Office • 255 S. Grand Ave., Suite 204
F# C4 620-5777
Kyoto Grand Hotel & Garden • 120 S. Los Angeles St.
629-1200
Frying Fish Restaurant • 120 Japanese Village Plaza Mall
680-0567
The Los Angeles Athletic Club • 431 W. 7th St.
630-5200
Bunker Hill Real Estate • 800 W. 1st St., #401
680-1720
Dr. Silvia Kasparian DDS • 601 W. 5th St., Suite 1110
892-8172
F C2
CBS Seafood Restaurant • 700 N. Spring St.
617-2323
F C7
Clifton’s Brookdale Restaurant • 648 S. Broadway
627-1673
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Far East Plaza/Wing Hop Fung • 727 N. Broadway
626-7200
Tommy’s • 2575 W. Beverly Blvd.
389-9060
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624-1200
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The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels • 555 W. Temple St.
680-5200
El Pollo Loco • 260 S. Broadway
626-7975
Orsini Apartments • 505 N. Figueroa St. Gus’s Drive-In • 1657 W. 3rd St. Medici • 725 S. Bixel St.
877-267-5911 483-8885 888-886-3731
Carl’s Jr. • 254 S. Broadway
625-1357
PIP Printing • 700 Wilshire Blvd.
489-2333
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dRiVeR - West Coast Regional NEW HIRING AREA. Newest equipment on the road. Competitive Pay. Run the Western 11 States. On Site - Full Service Maintenance Shop. Reasonable Home Time. Western Express - 22 yrs. old. Good MVR, EOE, CDL-A, 1 yr. OTR. Call Edna Today! 1-866-863-4112. (CalSCAN)
TechNical deSigNeR Citron Clothing, Inc. seeks Technical Designer. Resumes to Jose Reyes, Controller, Citron Clothing, Inc., 1600 S Broadway 2nd Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90015. NaTiONal caRRieRS needs O/Os & Lease Purchase Candidates for its Regional Operations in Southern California. Generous Home Time & Outstanding Pay Package. CDL-A Required. 1-888-707-7729. www.NationalCarriers.com. (Cal-SCAN) MUSic Professor. MA in Music required. Fax resume: Chong Shin University in USA 213-4873303 Los Angeles Continued on next page
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downtownnews.com
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
22 Downtown News
February 2, 2009
DowntownNews.com
Continued from previous page
busiNess OppOrTuNiTY
COMMUNITY INVOLVED people needed to work with international high school students. Coordinate with schools, interview families, support students. People skills necessary. 1-888552-9872. www.ayusa.org. (CalSCAN)
100% RECESSION PROOF! Do You Earn $800 in a Day? Your Own Local Vending Route Includes 25 Machines and Candy for $9,995. MultiVend LLC, 1-888-625-2405. (Cal-SCAN)
busiNess services
mAssAge
NEWS RELEASE? Cost-efficient service. The California Press Release Service has 500 current daily, weekly and college newspaper contacts in California. FREE email brochure. Call (916) 288-6010. www.CaliforniaPressReleaseService.com. (Cal-SCAN) CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING in 240 Cal-SCAN newspapers for the best reach, coverage, and price. 25-words $550. Reach 6 million Californians!. FREE email brochure. Call (916) 288-6019. www.Cal-SCAN.com. (CalSCAN) 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)
EZ SHIATSU & MASSAGE 60 min. massage (Reg. $60) $20 OFF w/this ad
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ATTOrNeYs ATTORNEY TO hANDLE your professional licensing case. Represents physicians, nurses, laboratories, pharmacies and other professionals in disciplinary actions brought by state and federal agencies including license denials, suspensions and revocations and associated criminal matters. Please call John Dratz, Jr. at (213) 2217564. www.medicalfraudattorney.com
ABOGADO DE IMMIGRACION! Family, Criminal, P.I. for more than 20 yrs! Familiar o Amigo Arrestado? Necesita Permiso de trabajo? Tagalog / Español
get your greeN cArD or ciTiZeNship Law Office of H. Douglas Daniel Esq., (213) 689-1710
lAuNDrY services Let us do the dirty work!
Beverly's Laundromat Drop Off
50% OFF 1st time customers only. Minimum 25lb
FrEE Pick-up & Delivery with minimum 35lb
610 S. Rampart Blvd. @ 6th St (213)804-0069 Open Daily 7 a.m.-10 p.m. • Free Parking
AuTOs WANTeD 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)
ChILDREN’S PERFORMING Group! Singing, dancing, performing and fun! For boys & girls ages 3 and up! See SunshineGenerationLA.com or call 909861-4433.
CONCEPTO’S CLEANING Crew. Professional, experienced, cleans apartments, homes, offices and restaurants. Call for a quote. 323-459-3067 or 818409-9183. MAKE JOINING with Homeless in America your New Year Resolution! www.HomelessInAmerica.BlogSpot.com Your donation, however great or small helps men, women, children and teenagers at St. Peter’s in Chinatown daily food line and Homeless in America’s StreetReach to those homeless living under DTLA bridges and in alleyways. Donate now online with PayPal at www.ServantsoftheFather.org or by check payable to SFM, P. O. Box 42001, Los Angeles, CA 90042. Mourn with us; one day too, you shall laugh!
2 Story Townhouse. West Facing With Downtown City View. Upgrades. Large Patio. Very Elegant. Asking $599,900
Broker/Realtor leasing-salesloans-refinance
(213) 680-1720 e-mail us: info@bunkerhillrealestate.com
Call us for other condos for sale or lease Dwntwn & surrounding areas!!
www.bunkerhillrealestate.com
ArtIst lOFts FOr leAse Live/Work in Downtown Fashion District 700 to 1500 Sq. Ft. Lofts. High ceilings, skylights, cable, kitchen, bath+shower, laundry room, elevator, controlled access, sub. parking. Sorry no dogs. Call George: 818-634-7916 or 310-275-9831 x24
Furnished single unit with kitchenette, bathroom. Excellent location. Downtown LA. Weekly rate $275 inc.
Children’s Performing Group
Sunshine Generation Singing, dancing, performing and fun! For boys & girls ages 3 and up! SunshineGenerationLA.com 909-861-4433
Monthly from $595 utilities paid. (213) 612-0348
SAWMILLS FROM ONLY $2,990 - Convert your Logs To Valuable Lumber with your own Norwood portable band sawmill. Log skidders also available. www.NorwoodIndustries. com/300N -FREE Information: 1-800-578-1363 x300-N. (CalSCAN) BUILDING SALE! ... “Unprecedented Low Prices”. Sale Ends February 13th. 25x40 $5,190. 30x50 $6,390. 35x60 $8,990. 40x60 $12,700. 60x100 $33,600. Others! Pioneer Steel. 1-800-668-5422. Since 1980. (Cal-SCAN) We've got what you're searching for! DowntownNews.com
ADVANCED COMPUTING INSTITUTE is applying to become a Candidate for Accreditation by the Council on occupational Education, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as a nationally approved Accrediting Agency. The Council on Occupational Education is located at 41 Perimeter Center East, NE, Suite 640, Atlanta, GA. 30346- (770) 396-3790. Persons interested in making a comment should contact COE at the above address. COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF ThE CITY OF LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA NOTICE ThAT ThE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF ThE CITY OF LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA WILL REVIEW AND CONSIDER ThE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS AND ADOPTION OF ThE DESIGN FOR DEVELOPMENT ESTABLIShING ThE DOWNTOWN DESIGN GUIDE AND DOWNTOWN STREET STANDARDS IN ThE BUNKER hILL, AMENDED CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT, CITY CENTER, AND LITTLE TOKYO REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREAS, IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA Notice is hereby given that on Thursday, February 5, 2009, beginning at the hour of 10:00 A.M. or as soon thereafter, the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Los Angeles, California (“CRA/LA”) will conduct a meeting at the CRA/LA Board Room located at 354 S. Spring Street, Sixth Floor, Los Angeles, California 90013, to consider the adoption of the Design for Development establishing the
NOTICE OF PUBLIC hEARING BY ThE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF ThE CITY OF LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA REGARDING ThE FIVE-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN (FY2005FY2009) MID-TERM REPORT FOR ThE ChINATOWN REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT NOTICE is hereby given that
Luxury Rooms in Downtown
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2012 Laura Street, Huntington Park, CA 90255 Job line 323-582-1875
Promenade West Condo
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.
FOR LEASE
FOR Downtown DASH
FOr rent: EstablishEd 1984 ❏ Prom. West-2 Bed. 2 Bath. 7th Floor. Elegant Upgrades. Green House. Pride of Ownership. $3,200 Furn. $3,000 Unfurn. ❏ Prom. West-2 Bed. 2 Bath. 5th Floor. $2,200 Month ❏ Bunker Hill Tower-2 Bed. 2 Bath. N/W View. $2,200 Month ❏ LA Fayette PK. PL.-2 Bed. 2 Bath. 3rd Floor. $1,750 Month FOreclOsures-lOs Angeles ❏ 4 Bed, 2 Bath. Pasadena. Semi Circular Driveway. Price $411,900. ❏ 3 Bed, 2 Bath. Pasadena. Great For Growing Family. $409,900 ❏ 3 Bed. 2 Bath. Pasadena. Upgrades. 3 Car Gar. Big Lot. $594,900 ❏ 3 Bed. 3. Bath. Lawndale. Tri-Level Townhouse. Large $329,900 ❏ 2 Bed. 2. Bath. Altadena. 18,500 sq.ft. Lot Needs Some TLC. $412,000
vOluNTeer OppOrTuNiTies
Downtown Design Guide and Downtown Street Standards in the Bunker Hill, Amended Central Business District, City Center, and Little Tokyo Redevelopment Project Areas, in accordance with applicable sections of the respective redevelopment plans. The CRA/LA will also review and consider the environmental effects of the Design for Development. The meeting may be continued from time to time until completed. Any and all persons having any objections to the proposed amendment to the Design for Development, who deny the regularity of this proceeding or wish to speak on any issue raised by the amendment, may appear at the meeting and will be afforded an opportunity to state their comments or objections. If any person desires to challenge in court the proposed adoption of the Design for Development or any proceedings in connection therewith, they may be limited to raising only those issues that they or someone else raised at the meeting described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the CRA/LA at, or prior to, the meeting. Written correspondence on this matter may be addressed to the CRA/LA, c/o of the CRA/LA, Downtown Region, 354 S. Spring Street, Los Angeles, California 90013. 1/26, 2/2/09 CNS-1509867#
legAls
REAL ARTIST LOFTS
BUS DRIVERS
Bunker Hill real estate Co, inC.
MIRIAM’S CLEANING Services. 10+ years experience. Professional cleaning for Lofts, apartments, homes, offices, restaurants and more. Call for a quote 213-500-3062 or 323-445-0756.
MOVE-In SPECIAL
Join Us! llEnt PAy We Are Growing Everyday! ExcE nEFits!! & BE IMMEDIATE OPENINGS FOR
Minimum Requirements • Minimum age: 21 years old • Class C driver’s license • No more than 2 pts. in the last 36 months on DMV record (H6 form)
KiDs perfOrmiNg schOOls
services
H E L P WA N T E D
• Have superb customer relations skills • Exercise sound judgment in stressful situations • Understand and follow detailed oral and written instructions • Quickly and accurately count money at a glance • Fluent in English
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)
Available Immediately Top floor of 11 story (18,000 SF) historic building available now! Perfect for corporate hqtrs. Features separate executive suite(s). Stunning views of LA two blocks away from Staples Center and across the street from the new LA Live complex. The building also has approx 4,000 sq ft of beautiful contiguous space and some small offices available. These spaces can be viewed by appointment. Information available to qualified prospective tenants. Email request to mdavis@shammasgroup.com or call (213) 746-6300
Includes utilities, basic cable channels, laundry room on site, street parking, 1 yr lease. 208 W. 14th St. at Hill St. Downtown L.A.
For English Call Terri or Pierre 213.744.9911 For Spanish call Susana 213.749.0306
• Fully Furnished • 100% Utilities Paid • • Refrigerator, Microwave & TV In Each Room • • Wireless Access Throughout Bldg. • Gym • • Close to USC & Loyola Law School • • Presidential Suite with Kitchen • Parking Available Onsite
Special STUDeNT RaTe!
THAI MASSAGE SPECIALIST
$780 1 person
Professional massage for men & women. Services include Thai Massage, Shiatsu Massage, Swedish Oil Massage, Foot Massage, Sauna, Steam, and more. Lounge area.
MASSAGEH
First Professionally Licensed Massage Shop in L.A. County.
Exp. Feb. 15, 2009
Simin (213) 484-9789 Ext. 555 or (213) 632-1111
sAKurA heAlTh gYm & sAuNA, iNc.
HBODY
on 1st months Rent
1256 West 7th street
HealtH Dept. rank a for 7 ConseCutive Years
111 N. Atlantic Blvd. Ste #231-233 Monterey Park, CA 91754 (626) 458-1919 [Corner of Garvey Ave.]
$100 OFF
Mayfair Hotel
VIP Room Available. The Best Way For Business Meetings & Entertainment
3386766 0119
help WANTeD
Do you have something to sell? t results! ,000, our classifieds ge With a circulation of 49 All ads run for 2 weeks. Ads may be renewed after two weeks for 50% off the original price of the ad.
Ad prices
(Marketplace and Automotive Categories ONLY):
You never know what you’ll find in the…
downtown news
Classified
madison hotel Clean furnished single rooms. 24-hour desk clerk service. •Daily, $25.00 •Weekly, $99.00 •Monthly, $295.00 (213) 622-1508 423 East 7th St.
(2 blocks west of San Pedro St.)
• Items under $300…12 words, 2 weeks FrEE! • Items $301 to $500…15 words, only $11.50 • Items $501 to $1200…15 words, only $14.00 • Items $1201 to $2000…15 words, only $16.50 • Items $2001+…15 words, only $19.00 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. Name: Address: City Phone: Cash $ Credit card #: Exp. Date:
State Check $
Zip Credit Card $
Ad Copy: ____________________
fictitiOus
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stAteMents:
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Business nAMe Only $85. fOr 4 insertiOns
(213) 481-1448
(note: the Downtown news does not perform filing services)
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Place your classified ad online, its safe and secure at DowntownNews.com/classified. Or call 213.481.1448
___________________________
February 2, 2009 The Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Los Angeles, California will hold a public hearing for the Chinatown Redevelopment Project on Thursday, March 5, 2009 at 10:00 a.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at The Community Redevelopment Agency Offices, 354 South Spring Street, 6th Floor Board Room, Los Angeles, CA 90013. The public hearing is being conducted to hear testimony of all interested parties regarding the Five-Year Implementation Plan Mid-Term Report for the Chinatown Redevelopment Project. At the above-stated time and place, any and all persons having any testimony regarding the MidTerm Report may appear before the Agency and be heard. 1/26, 2/2, 2/9/09 CNS-1507795#
FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAMES Fictitious Business name statement File no. 20090021831
Downtown News 23
SearchDowntownLA.com The following persons doing business as: JOHN ALDANA TRIPLE J’s PROCESS, 4316 Willowbrook Avenue #2, Los Angeles, CA 90029, is hereby registered by the following registrants: JOHN ALDANA, 4316 Willowbrook Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90029. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrants has not begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on January 7, 2009. This statement was filed with the County Clerk of Los Angeles on January 7, 2009. NOTICE—This fictitious name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et. seq. Business and Professions Code). Pub. 2/2, 2/9, 2/16, 2/23/2009
Why Chapman Flat is the fastest leasing loft in Downtown?
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premiere Towers:
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City Lofts:
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Jenny Ahn (213) 996-8301
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
jahn@regentBC.com www.regentbc.com
Take Your Game to the Next Level
Please call 213.627.6913
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Fully furnished with TV, telephone, microwave, refrigerator. Full bathroom. Excellent location. Downtown LA. Weekly maid service.
3 Learn while you play 3 Shot visualization 3 Mastering club selection
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3 Driving strategies 3 Mid/long iron techniques 3 Short game fundamentals
In golf, its you versus the course. Learn to manage the entire game, not just the mechanics of your swing. Learn course management and improve your game.
Steve Andelich Professional Golf Instructor
818.618.2099
Catering to Intermediate/Advanced Players
PUBLIC NOTICE BY THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF THE CITY OF LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, IN CONFORMANCE WITH SECTION 33490 OF THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA’S HEALTH & SAFETY CODE, REGARDING THE ADOPTION OF THE MID TERM REPORT FOR THE FIVE-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN (FY2005-FY2009) OF THE PICO UNION No. 1 AND PICO UNION No. 2 REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREAS OF COUNCIL DISTRICT 1. NOTICE is hereby given that the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Los Angeles, California (CRA/LA) will hold a public hearing on the Mid Term Report of the Five-Year Implementation Plan (FY2005-FY2009) for the Pico Union No. 1 and Pico Union No. 2 Redevelopment Project Areas of Council District 1, Hollywood and Central Region on Thursday, March 5, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. at the Community Redevelopment Agency of¿ce located at 354 South Spring Street, 6th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90013. A map showing the location of the Project Area is attached to this notice. The public hearing is being conducted to hear testimony of all interested parties regarding the Mid Term Report of the Five-Year Implementation Plan (FY2005-FY2009) for the Pico Union No. 1 and Pico Union No. 2 Redevelopment Project Areas of Council District 1. Any person desiring the opportunity to be heard in the Implementation Plan will be afforded an opportunity to do so. At the above stated time and place, any and all persons having any testimony regarding the proposed Mid Term Report of the Five-Year Implementation Plan (FY2005-FY2009) for the Pico Union No. 1 and Pico Union No. 2 Redevelopment Project Areas of Council District 1 may appear before the CRA/LA Board of Commissioners and be heard. The hearing may be cancelled or set for another time in the future at any time until the scheduled hearing-time. Copies of the Implementation Plans are available for public review at the following locations: CRA/LA Of¿ces 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. 354 South Spring Street, 5th Fl. Los Angeles, CA 90013 (213) 977-1925
CRA/LA Hollywood Regional Of¿ce 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 3055 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 520 Los Angeles, CA 90010 (213) 977-2633
Of¿ce of Council District 1 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. 200 N. Spring Street, Room # 410 Los Angeles, CA 90012 (213) 473-7001
Pico Union Public Library 1030 S. Alvarado Street Los Angeles, CA. 90006 (213) 368-7545
Any and all persons having any objections to the proposed Mid Term Report, or who deny the regularity of this proceeding or wish to speak on any issue raised by the proposed Mid Term Report, may appear at the public hearing and will be afforded an opportunity to state their objections. If any person desires to challenge in court the adoption of the proposed Mid Term report or any proceedings in connection therewith, they may be limited to raising only those issues that they or someone else raised a the hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the CRA/LA, or prior to, the hearing. Written correspondence on this matter may be addressed to the CRA/LA at the above noted addresses. The public hearing is being held pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 33490 and is open to the public. CNSB#1511160
10.25” x 5”
24 Downtown News
February 2, 2009
We Got Games Everyone Is on the Road Again Los Angeles Lakers Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7340 or nba.com/lakers. Despite dropping a double-overtime contest to the Charlotte Bobcats, last week was a good one for the Lakers. Their bench was sparked by the return of Jordan Farmar and young center Andrew Bynum got the better of San Antonio’s Tim Duncan in a big win. Now comes the tough part, as with the Grammys at Staples Center, the Lakers are on the road for games against New York (Feb. 2), Toronto (Feb. 4) and Boston (Feb. 5), in what’s sure to be a hard-fought rematch of the Christmas day game. And oh yeah, after Boston, they visit Lebron James and the Cavaliers (Feb. 8), who haven’t lost at home all season. Los Angeles Clippers Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7340 or nba.com/clippers.
photo courtesy of L.A. Coliseum
DowntownNews.com When the Clippers hit the road this week, a healthy Baron Davis will be with them. That’s probably good news, though who knows with the mercurial Davis? After swinging through Florida to play the Miami Heat (Feb. 2) and the Orlando Magic (Feb. 4), the Clips visit the Memphis Grizzlies (Feb. 6) and the Atlanta Hawks (Feb. 7). Los Angeles Kings Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7340 or kings.nhl.com. The Kings are away all week too, with tough contests against the Ottawa Senators (Feb. 3), Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals (Feb. 5) and the New Jersey Devils (Feb. 7). Soccer: El Salvador vs. Peru Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, 3939 S. Figueroa St., (213) 747-7111 lacoliseum.com. Friday, Feb. 6, 8 p.m.: The national teams of El Salvador and Peru battle it out under the lights at the Coliseum. There’s still time to learn each team’s special chants, or just be ready to yell “Gooooooooooooooooooal!” —Ryan Vaillancourt
Rudy Corrales and the El Salvador national soccer team take on Peru’s national team on Friday night at the Coliseum.
Downtown, it’s not just big business anymore!
G r a n d To w e r 255 South Grand Avenue
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LEASING I N F O R M AT I O N
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(213) 229-9777
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(213) 626-1500
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