07-02-12 by Los Angeles Downtown News

LOS ANGELES

DOWNTOWN

NEWS July 2, 2012

Volume 41, Number 27

INSIDE

Welcome War Horse 13

A park opening, a big site sells, and other happenings Around Town.

Cheers and concern over plans to place a new federal building next to a new courthouse.

W W W. D O W N T O W N N E W S . C O M

The Rise of Ricardo Zarate How the Peruvian Food Stall Mo-Chica Turned Into a Culinary Empire

Urban Scrawl on the City Council recess.

Trouble at the Travelers Hotel.

Some big Downtown food news.

photo by Gary Leonard

Peruvian-born chef Ricardo Zarate used his life’s savings, $30,000, to open the food stall Mo-Chica in Mercado La Paloma three years ago. Now he has two nearly million-dollar restaurants, including a new version of Mo-Chica on Seventh Street. by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR

A glimpse at ‘Outsiders’ art.

Five great entertainment options.

15 CALENDAR LISTINGS 16 MAP 17 CLASSIFIEDS

t about 3 p.m. on May 30, Ricardo Zarate stood near his bustling open kitchen, the scents of freshly sliced vegetables and spices wafting in the air. His Seventh Street restaurant Mo-Chica had opened just three hours before. This was his first extended break. With his short dark hair falling over his fore-

head, Zarate leaned his stocky frame against a booth. He flashed a bright, easy smile while he looked around his new place with a sense of wonder and a bit of pride. Although the rush was slowing down, he was still buzzing with excitement. “I’ve been amazed and so grateful for the reaction from people,” he said. “This is where I always wanted to be, in Downtown, and this is what I always wanted Mo-Chica to be.”

He then ran into the back of the restaurant to grab a large Peruvian flag for a photo shoot. With a desire to turn his country’s food into a familiar California flavor, Mo-Chica has been the 38-year-old chef’s dream for more than a decade. Still, that long-running desire could hardly prepare him for the long, winding road he endured. Zarate literally travelled the globe, hopping see Zarate, page 10

The BEST is Here!

It’s tIme to vote!Asked WWW.VOTEBESTOF.COM Downtowners to Pay $62 Million for Streetcar Divided Community Will Vote on Whether to Help Fund the Overall $125 Million Project

The BEST is Here!

by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR

Property owners closest to the streetcar tracks would pay 59 cents per square foot annually, with the assessment based on parcel size rather than a building’s overall square footage. For example, if a 10-story structure was on a 10,000-square-foot lot, the tax would be based on that ground level figure, not the 100,000 total square feet of space in the building. For condo owners the parcel size determinant still holds, with individual fees determined by the size of the residence — unit owners will pay on a proportional basis of their home compared to others in the building. Shiraz Tangri, general council for Los Angeles Streetcar Inc., the nonprofit overseeing the effort, said the average condo owner will likely have an assessment of $100-$200 a year. Fees fall for those further away from the route. Those in the second zone, or tier, would be assessed see Streetcar, page 8

hen the Downtown streetcar final-

a cumulative $62 million. The City Council on Wednesday, June 27, approved the formation of a special tax district for the project that is now estimated at $125 million, including support facilities. Rates will vary depending on how close the property is to the streetcar; the route will connect Bunker Hill and L.A. Live, with a principal spine on Broadway.

ly gets rolling, customerssee will have It’s tIme to vote! pAgE 8 FoR a lIst oF CateGoRIes & NomINees. to pay a nominal fee for each ride. Downtown property owners, however — including those who live in condominiums — will have a much larger tab: They will be asked to shell out

Who is The BEST ?

Find OuT in Our July 16 EdiTiOn.

2 Downtown News

July 2, 2012

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AROUNDTOWN Grand Park to Have Partial Opening In Late July

n less than two months, Downtown workers and visitors will have access to part of a revamped 12-acre green space in which to stroll, gather, picnic and, on opening weekend, dance. Last week officials with the county and the Music Center announced that two blocks of Grand Park will open on July 26. A dedication event that day will mark the debut of half of the park, between Grand Avenue and Hill Street. Dance and music performances are planned. The other half of the park, between Hill and Spring streets, is in the final stages of preparation and will come online in the fall, said park spokeswoman Bonnie Goodman. The opening festivities continue on July 28 when professional dancers will lead the public in free group routines to celebrate National Dance Day. Artists from Cirque du Soleil’s Iris will also perform. On July 29, Grand Performances will present local musicians. Additional information is at grandparkla.org.

Downtown News Gets Prizes for News Reporting, Columns

egendary Watergate reporter Carl Bernstein was the big draw at the Los Angeles Press Club’s annual awards ceremony in Downtown. But Los Angeles Downtown News had a good evening too. During the event at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel on Sunday, June 24, Downtown News received a first place prize in the Hard News category for staff writer Ryan Vaillancourt’s story “Racism, Sexual Harassment Lawsuits Roil Central Division.”

TAKE MY PICTURE GARY LEONARD

Another top honor, in the Columnist category, went to executive editor Jon Regardie, who won for four Regardie Report columns published during 2011. Downtown News also earned second place honors in the categories of Personality Profile, Design and Entertainment News or Feature. Honorable Mention awards were given to the paper in Feature Photo, Photo Essay, Investigative/Series, Editorial Cartoon and Journalist of the Year, the latter for a collection of Vaillancourt’s work. Nearly 500 people attended the dinner. The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Press Club’s President’s Award to Bernstein and Bob Woodward on the 40th anniversary of their Watergate reporting. Although Bernstein was on the stage, Woodward, who was in Washington, D.C. finishing a book, appeared via Skype.

Astani Sells ‘Angelena’ Site

an Francisco-based Carmel Partners has purchased a three-acre Downtown site slated to hold a 700-unit apartment complex. Seller Sonny Astani last week announced the $63 million deal, which he said amounts to a record Downtown land sale price of $500 per square foot. The transaction was first reported by the Los Angeles Times. Carmel Partners’ plan for the project at Eighth Street and Grand Avenue is uncertain, but Astani had been pledging to start construction on the mixed-use development this year. He said he expects the firm to break ground within 60 days. “Being an institution, they don’t need financing,” Astani said. “They basically have cash. That’s the beauty of the deal for them.” The entitled project, which Astani had dubbed Angelena, calls for a 700-unit steel and con-

THE PETROLEUM BUILDING Commercial Office Space for Lease

Arts District Tour

Developer Howard Klein

crete apartment complex with 36,000 square feet of ground-floor retail. A Carmel representative confirmed the acquisition, but company officials did not respond to a request for further comment. Carmel Partners’ nationwide portfolio includes eight apartment complexes in Los Angeles County, but none in Downtown, according to the firm’s website. Astani said he sold the project in part because of a difficult financing environment, but also to free up funds for other investments. He said he is in escrow to buy another Downtown site that would allow a residential development of up to 200 units. He would not reveal the property.

Work Starts on Marriott Hotels Project

groundbreaking occurred last week for a $172 million project that will create

2121 6th Street

June 22, 2012

two Marriott hotels in a single South Park building. American Life Incorporated and Williams/Dame & Associates are behind the plan to build a 373,000-square-foot project on what had been a surface parking lot just north of the Ritz-Carlton/J.W. Marriott. The development, slated to open in the summer of 2014, will put two Marriott brands — a 174-room Courtyard by Marriott and a 218-room Residence Inn — in one 23-story high-rise. Crews began pouring concrete footings for the project at Olympic Boulevard and Francisco Street last week, according to a press release. The action comes just two weeks after the City Council approved a tax incentive for the project. The developers have said that construction will generate more than 1,000 jobs and help the Los Angeles Convention Center attract more major confabs. The project is being built by SODO see Around Town, page 6

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Downtown News 3

DowntownNews.com

Real People, Real Stories

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4 Downtown News

July 2, 2012

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EDITORIALS Urban Scrawl by Doug Davis

Fueling the X Factor

rom June 28-July 1, Downtown Los Angeles was filled with the young and the tattooed. They came, they saw and they did amazing tricks and performed incredible feats on skateboards, BMX bikes and motorcycles. They roared through the streets in souped-up racecars. That’s a lot of superlatives, but what the heck — it was, in a word, awesome. The gathering was X Games, which has now spent a full decade in Downtown Los Angeles. Hard as it is to fathom, the international center of the summer’s extreme sports scene is a veteran of this community. The competition run by ESPN planted a foothold here long before a majority of the new wave of Central City residents. It started luring Westsiders well before a spate of hip chefs created new-school foodie destinations. When X Games first came to the area a decade ago the organizers also staged activities in other parts of Southern California. Over the years those competitions and sites have been jettisoned. Event brass have realized that everything they need for the extreme sports extravaganza exists right here. The X Games competitions are all held around the L.A. Live campus, and specific events have been designed to take advantage of the physical terrain. Organizers have realized that the Big Air competitions look spectacular outdoors on Chick Hearn Court. BMX biking, surprisingly, works well inside the Nokia Theatre, which normally holds concerts. The rallycross fills Figueroa Street and other roads around Gilbert Lindsay Plaza. It even includes a ramp for cars to fly through the air. Those are not the only places to catch the athletes. They, and the people who come into town for the annual competition, fill area hotels. The weekend before the games some competitors were seen in the historic Millennium Biltmore, the tattoos and mohawks a somewhat unexpected yet sight in what is known as the grande dame of Los Angeles hotels. X Games also does what all big events are supposed to do these days — it generates revenue for local businesses and the city. All those hotel stays produce a room tax that goes to Los Angeles’ general fund. The athletes and the spectators cram area restaurants and the plethora of bars. The broadcasting of events generates worldwide interest in Los Angeles, and the outdoors competitions naturally show off Downtown. None of this could have been predicted a decade ago when just a handful of events took place Downtown. Even when L.A. Live and the Convention Center hotel were under construction few local boosters would have assumed that Downtown would be a hospitable locale for everything the X Games offers. However, that is exactly the case today. It is, in a word, awesome.

Mayor Needs to Focus on City, Not Democratic Party Needs

ntonio Villaraigosa now has less than one year left as mayor of Los Angeles. While the following may be as lofty a dream as his 2005 “Dream With Me” inauguration speech, we hope that in his remaining time Villaraigosa can focus on the city and dedicate himself to solving its problems. We hope that he can shrug off what seems to be his weightiest demon — a seemingly desperate personal ambition — and serve in the best interests of the people who twice elected him to the city’s highest office. On July 1, 2013, Villaraigosa’s successor will be sworn into office. That gives the current mayor about six months until he is a lame duck, someone whom opponents will wait out, knowing he’ll soon be gone. Some observers would suggest he has already attained that status. There is one major step Villaraigosa could take to show the city, show the country in fact, that he is committed to Los Angeles during that time frame. Sadly, we can’t see him doing it — it would go in the face of his constant need to plan his Next Big Move. It would mean making a decision with no near-term political payoff. In an ideal world, Villaraigosa would announce this week that he is resigning his post as chair of the September Democratic National Convention in North Carolina, that the magnitude of that task simply chews up too much time that could be spent on his current job. In an ideal world he would recognize that the city needs him focused on issues such as unemployment, transportation and business development. In an ideal world he would follow up this announcement by stating that, in the months after the convention, he will ignore most entreaties to travel the country stumping for President Barack Obama and other Democratic leaders. In an ideal world, Antonio Villaraigosa would do what he was elected to do — serve the people of Los Angeles. In one way it is silly that this idea even needs to be broached. Seven years ago voters chose to oust a sitting mayor, Jim Hahn, and go instead with the excitement and potential of Villaraigosa, the charismatic former Assembly speaker and short-term Los Angeles councilman. Four years later, with the national economy in a tailspin and the city in a period of severe budget shortfalls and layoffs, voters elected him again, in part because there was no credible challenger. Three years after that election, Los Angeles, like most of the nation, is struggling to recover. Unemployment remains stubbornly high, the city workforce has been slashed and the political talk is of

determining what core services government can and should provide. There are concerns and debates about what should happen with pensions for both existing and future city employees. These are conversations Villaraigosa should be enmeshed in every day. The problem is not just the convention that takes place Sept. 4-6. This is not an ideal world and realistically, Villaraigosa should be in North Carolina — as the chief executive of the nation’s second largest city, and one that votes overwhelmingly and reliably Democratic, he can do good for L.A. by pressing the flesh for a few days and maintaining the relationships that he has built. If this also nets him a primetime speaking gig during the convention, then good for him. The issue, instead, is that this is much more than a ceremonial or three-day commitment. Villaraigosa’s chairman post will almost certainly require a lot of his attention in the coming months through meetings, planning sessions, etc. The job will demand that after the convention he hit the campaign trail, drumming up support for Obama and other Democrats. He will be expected to help bring Latino voters to the polls in key battleground states. We can foresee him spending a lot of time outside L.A. We are not saying those are unimportant matters. We are not saying his party doesn’t need him. However, the city that elected him needs him more. Los Angeles should not be essentially rudderless during the last period in which Villaraigosa can be truly effective. Villaraigosa has long seemed to have trouble putting his constituents’ needs over his own. He spent too much time in his first term as mayor waffling over a gubernatorial bid. He continues to be dogged by speculation that what he really wants is a Cabinet post in a second Obama term. Maybe the speculation is unfair, but it is the result of the persona Villaraigosa has built over time. Will Villaraigosa walk away from the national spotlight and realize that his time would be better spent working on what ails his home city? Could he possibly go against what seems to be his natural appetite for attention and allow someone else to bask in the Obama glow? Certainly not. But he should. As painful as it may be, Villaraigosa should recognize that Los Angeles needs him more than the Democrats do. He should serve those who put their trust in him.

July 2, 2012

Downtown News 5

DowntownNews.com

Cheers, Concern Greet New Federal Building Plan

GRAND PERFORMANCES

CALIFORNIA PLAZA

SUMMER WILL BE

Some Skeptical That Two Structures Will Rise in Civic Center Pit by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR

owntowners were nearly euphoric in January when Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard suddenly announced that long-stalled plans to build a federal courthouse on a notorious Civic Center blight spot were being fast-tracked. Now there is an equal level of joy, with the recent anphoto by Gary Leonard nouncement that the $400 The pit at First Street and Broadway could house not just a million courthouse on the courthouse, but also a new federal building. southwest corner of First Street and Broadway will be “I just think it’s a pretty farfetched idea,” joined by a new federal building. he said. At the same time, there is a level of cauHis position was echoed by Paul Keller, a tion, with concern that the project relies on principal at the Downtown based planning too much speculation at a time when the and development firm Urban Partners. economy remains soft. “I think that in today’s economy, speculative On June 22, officials with Roybal-Allard’s office building development is out of the quesoffice made an again surprising announce- tion,” he said. With additional hurdles such as ment, this time that the federal General the amount of money needed to renovate the Services Administration plans to transfer Spring Street property, Keller said he doesn’t ownership of the Spring Street Courthouse, see the historic building as a profitable project. which is set to be vacated when the new Delayed Plans courthouse is completed, to a developer. The The General Services Administration, developer, in exchange, would be required which acts as a landlord for federal agencies, to build a new federal office building with a spent $16.9 million to acquire and prepare similar value to the Spring Street courthouse the Civic Center site, and another $16.3 milon the First and Broadway site. lion on designs for a 41-room courthouse. “It’s a win-win,” said Ninth District The project hit a wall in 2008 when delays Councilwoman Jan Perry. “How many years and design changes pushed the estimated have we been talking about this? I think this cost to the $1.1 billion level. is great.” Roybal-Allard’s January announcement Like most Downtown stakeholders, Perry revealed that the scaled-back courthouse had grown frustrated with the state of the site would include 24 courtrooms and 32 judges’ — plans had stalled when the 41-courtoom chambers. As part of the plan, the 1938 Spring project’s estimated cost soared to $1.1 billion. Street Courthouse, which along with the 1992 January’s $400 million proposal represented Roybal Federal Building currently house feda downsizing of the effort. eral courthouse operations, would be vacated. According to a spokesman for RoybalGSA officials said the $250 million retrofit Allard’s office, the 1938 courthouse at 312 and renovation cost spurred the need for the N. Spring St. is valued at $53 million. That swap. means a developer would have to build an “This plan would save millions in tax approximately 150,000- to 175,000-square- dollars and ensure the North Spring Street foot building on the 3.6-acre site that will also courthouse does not become another exhouse the federal courthouse. Plans call for cess property on the government’s books,” the courthouse to open in 2016. Tangherlini said in a statement. Once the new federal office building is GSA officials said the next step will likely completed, the developer would take over be to solicit project bids. Once a developer is the Spring Street Courthouse. If the plan handed the deed to the Spring Street property, comes to fruition, it would be a stunning any proposals would be subject to local land turnaround for a Civic Center property use and building regulations. They would also where the biggest claim to fame in recent likely have to be in compliance with National years has been an artist placing a family of Register of Historic Places regulations. papier-mâché beachgoers. The trade, however, does not require any “I applaud GSA Acting Administrator Dan other agency approval. Tangherlini for finding an innovative, practiThe new building would consolidate the cal, and fiscally responsible solution to meet Office of the US Attorneys and certain our judiciary and federal workspace needs Department of Homeland Security personnel, in Downtown L.A.,” said Roybal-Allard in a and open up more office space at the 300 N. statement. Los Angeles St. Federal Building, according to However, some Downtown real estate ex- Roybal-Allard’s office. There is no timeline yet perts are not as confident of the deal. on when a developer will be selected or when “I think it’s an extremely speculative deal the structure would be completed. that’s fraught with problems in a difficult Carol Schatz, president and CEO of the marketplace,” said Chris Martin a partner at Central City Association, said that while the AC Martin Architects. GSA’s proposed trade is “unusual,” she welMartin, the architect and project manger comes the plans for two buildings on the for the nearby $231 million restoration of the blighted spot. Hall of Justice, said the trade may not pencil “I think it can work, and we think having out financially since a developer would have these two buildings on that site is going to to retrofit and renovate the courthouse, a be terrific for the community,” she said. “It’ll project the GSA estimates at $250 million. probably require a very sophisticated develThey would also have to come up with a oper. And we have plenty of those.” profitable use for a building that Martin said Contact Richard Guzmán at is best suited as a courthouse. richard@downtownnews.com.

FRI, JULY 6 @ 8PM

FRI, JULY 20 @ 8 PM

SAN PEDRO SQUEEZE: AN ACCORDION FESTIVAL

PEACE GO WITH YOU, GIL

Get keyed into a survey of world music through this versatile box, first valued for its ability to be heard above the din in crowded pubs and outdoor gatherings. The evening celebrates the accordion music from the many ethnic communities that call San Pedro home. Featuring Joel Guzman’s traditional Mexican music-fused blues, rock, country, and salsa; digital accordion champion Cory Pesaturo; accordion diva Gee Rabe; Jelena Milojevic on the classical chromatic button accordion; and more. THIS SOUNDS

TO ME

This celebration of the late great Gil ScottHeron’s legacy explores the soul, vitality, power, humor, social activism, humanity, and dynamic messages of the artists’ music and poetry through an enthralling musical, visual and interactive arts journey. Special guests include Gia Scott-Heron, Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, Jeremy Sole, Roger Guenveur Smith and more. THIS SOUNDS

TO ME

SAT, JULY 21 @ 8PM

¶VAMOS AL MAMBO! Grand Performances honors the legendary Cuban musician Israel “Cachao” López. Come dressed in tropical finery, and sway to music from the man credited for inventing the mambo by introducing African rhythms to Cuban’s Danzon in the late 1930s. The all-star band features an unmatched ensemble of Latin musicians, most of whom recorded and played with Cachao throughout his career:

SAT, JULY 7 @ 8PM

JAZZ MAFIA

THIS SOUNDS

TO ME

FRI, JULY 27 @ 8PM

After making their debut with the highly acclaimed Brass, Bows, & Beats, the Jazz Mafia present their 38-piece symphony #2, The Emperor Norton Suite. The Jazz Mafia is bravado post-modern orchestration, blistering solos, spoken-word, Latin poly-rhythms, boom-bap rhymes, and emotive ballads, all spun together with the spirit of improvisational jazz. THIS SOUNDS

MASTERY & LEGACY: THE MUSIC OF HAWAI`I An evening of distinct voices and musicians paying homage to and sharing music, stories, and culture from Hawai`i.

TO ME

JULY & AUGUST HIGHLIGHTS Sat, July 28 @ 8pm Bibi Tanga | Breakestra

Sat, Aug 4 @ 8pm Strunz & Farah | Niyaz

Sat, Aug 18 @ 8pm No Place to Go

THE PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE OF FUNK

MIDDLE EASTERN MUSIC WITH A DASH OF ELECTRONIC AND A HINT OF LATIN AMERICA

A HILARIOUS, IRREVERENT AND DEEPLY EARNEST MUSICAL ODE TO UNEMPLOYMENT DEDICATED TO THE 100%

Fri, Aug 3 @ 8pm A Symphony of Hope AN ORIGINAL OPUS WRITTEN BY LEADING HOLLYWOOD COMPOSERS TO BENEFIT VICTIMS OF THE HAITIAN EARTHQUAKE.

Fri, Aug 10 @ 8pm Sat, Aug 11 @ 8pm Nale Hulu I ka Wekiu TRADITIONAL HULU WITH MODERN MUSIC

For the full calendar, visit grandperformances.org

16 Downtown News

Around Town Continued from page 2 Builders LA LLC, with designs by Portland’s GBD Architects.

soundtrack that includes narration by artist Mark Bradford, who has two pieces in the current MOCA show The Painting Factory: Abstraction After Warhol. The 30-minute performances will be July 19 and Aug. 2 and 9. Admission is free. Millepied’s L.A. Dance Project will have its world premiere Sept. 2223 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.

Choreographer Millepied First Republic Bank To Dance in MOCA Signs $17 Million Lease

July July26, 2, 2010 2012

Twitter/DowntownNews

n September Los Angeles will get its first performances from a new dance company helmed by rising star Benjamin Millepied. Downtowners, however, don’t have to wait that long for a sneak peek. The Museum of Contemporary Art last week announced that Millepied, the choreographer of Black Swan, husband of Natalie Portman and, more recently, founder of the L.A. Dance Project, will appear three times at the Grand Avenue institution in July and August. In the event titled “Framework,” he will dance with Amanda Wells on Rudolf Stingel’s artwork “Untitled.” “This rare collaboration will add a new layer to the exhibition and explores the convergence of dance and painting, as Millepied adds his footprints to Stingel’s signature white carpet,” a MOCA press release stated. They will be accompanied by a

change has come to the Downtown skyline. First Republic Bank has signed a 15-year lease for 15,000 square feet of office and retail space at 888 S. Figueroa St. The $17 million deal includes signage rights. It marks the first time the tower at Ninth and Figueroa streets has had corporate signage on its upper levels, said broker Adam Tischer, vice president at Colliers International. First Republic had been based in the Wilshire Grand. However, the hotel’s closure to make way for a new $1 billion project meant First Republic was in need of a new space. “They wanted to be visible and present and within walking distance of their customer base,” said Tischer, who along with broker Mark Tarczynski represented the tenant and landlord Jade Enterprises. “The

building-top signage afforded visibility from Staples Center events and it was close to the Central Business District and the densely populated and active South Park district.” First Republic opened its new branch on the ground floor of 888 S. Figueroa St., along with an office on an upper level, this month. With the lease, the office building is now 92% occupied, Tischer said.

Downtown Projects Win Architecture Awards

ive Downtown projects were winners recently at the Los Angeles Business Council’s 42nd annual Architectural Awards. The Ford Hotel at 1000 E. Seventh St. won in the Renovation category at the June 20 event. In the Healthcare category the Los Angeles Center for Women’s Health at 1513 S. Grand Ave. received a prize for its interior design. The recently opened offices of architecture giant Gensler at City National Plaza won the Interiors award for its “highly open, flexible and transparent workspace focused around a three-story, daylight-filled atrium with a connecting feature stair,” according to the LABC. Under Construction awards went to the Spring Street Park and Skid Row Housing Trust’s Star Apartments at 240 E.

Sixth St. A total of 34 projects were honored for being examples of cutting edge design.

Skid Row Parks Get Temporary Funding

wo Skid Row parks are getting a little financial help from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority. On June 26, the City Council authorized the use of $175,000 in LAHSA funds to operate the San Julian and Gladys parks. However, the money will only cover the next six months, so the search for funding will continue, said Eva Kandarpa Behrend, a spokeswoman for Ninth District Councilwoman Jan Perry, who authored the motion to fund the parks through LAHSA. “We’re just going to have to continue to look at our savings or see if there’s a more permanent source,” Behrend said. The only green spaces in Skid Row and prime gathering spots for many in the community, San Julian Park at Fifth and San Julian streets and Gladys Park at Sixth Street and Gladys Avenue are, according to the motion, “important safety zones.” The funding will allow the parks to remain open seven days a week. Security and maintenance will continue to be provided by SRO Housing Corportation.

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July 2, 2012

Downtown News 7

DowntownNews.com

Trouble for Travelers After Years of Battles, Problem Skid Row Hotel May Be Shuttered by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR

Skid Row hotel that was declared a public nuisance more than a decade ago could finally be shut down. However, the owner said he may sell the property

first. “I don’t want to keep fighting with people. I already have people that are interested in it,” said Balubhai Patel, who bought the Travelers Hotel at 553 Ceres St. in 1999, just before the city declared it a public nuisance. On June 8, the City Council revoked the land use operations permits for the 26-unit two-story single room occupancy hotel that currently houses about 20 people. According to officials with the Office of Zoning Administration, Patel has exhausted all of his administrative appeals. It is still unclear

On a recent afternoon, the metal door to the lobby of the Travelers Hotel was locked and there was no answer to a doorbell. A handwritten sign visible through a hole in the gate warned residents in English and Spanish not to drink in the lobby or outside the hotel. Martine Singer, president and CEO of Para Los Niños, which operates its Child Development Center on Sixth Street and shares an alley with the hotel, said her staff has long complained about the property. “There has been for many years prostitution taking place, people being propositioned. It’s all happening out in the open, people leaning out the window and shouting at the

kids,” she said. Estela Lopez, executive director of the Central City East Association, also urged the city to revoke the hotel’s permit in a letter dated May 22. “This owner continues to invoke his right to appeal these conditions demonstrating his determination to operate this hotel in a manner that is detrimental to the community and that causes significant waste of our precious police resources,” she wrote. Huizar said the decision to revoke the hotel’s permit occurred after Patel’s latest appeal came before the city’s Planning and Land Use Management Committee this year. The appeal was denied. Patel said he has yet to put the hotel on the market, but doesn’t think he will have trouble finding a buyer. He said there are other properties nearby he may be interested in purchasing. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.

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when the hotel would be shut down, which is the next step following the permit revocation. The story was first reported by KPCC. Patel said that while he was told by the city that the hotel would be shuttered, he has not been given a timeline for the proceedings. City Councilman José Huizar, whose 14th District includes the property, said the hotel’s battles with the city have gone on for too long. “It was just unbelievable that we as a city had allowed this property to continue as it did,” Huizar said. “Take this hotel and pluck it down anywhere else in the city and this would never have been allowed to happen.” Huizar said the tenants of the hotel would qualify for relocation assistance, which would be paid for by the building owner. In 1999, according to city documents, the property was declared a public nuisance due to issues including harboring criminal activity, the use and sale of drugs, prostitution and other crimes. The city has since placed numerous conditions on the building that the owner is required to meet. Patel has instead appealed the terms and at times even unsuccessfully sued the city, according to public documents. The conditions that have allegedly gone unmet include a requirement to retain a full-time security guard, to meet quarterly with the Los Angeles Police Department to address criminal activity in and around the hotel, and to document and register guests and residents. “It’s been over 13 years that they haven’t followed any conditions,” Huizar said. “They keep saying, ‘We’re going to do it this year.’” Tough Conditions Patel said some of the conditions are impossible for the hotel to meet. He said hiring a full-time security guard could cost up to $18,000 a month, while the hotel only makes about $8,000 each month from rents that range between $350 and $500. He said the city requirement to document tenants and visitors by taking their fingerprints as they enter is a violation of privacy. Patel also disputes accusations that drugs are dealt from the hotel or that prostitution takes place on or near the premises. “We keep it neat and clean always,” he said.

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The Travelers Hotel at 553 Ceres St. was declared a public nuisance in 1999. It could soon be shuttered by the city.

8 Downtown News

Streetcar Continued from page 1 41 cents per square foot. Property owners furthest away but still within the assessment zone would be charged 20 cents per square foot. People whose property is about three blocks or farther from the streetcar would not be taxed. In the program that is similar to the assessments paid by property owners for business improvement districts, money would be collected as part of property taxes. The borders for what is known as Community Facilities District 9 would encompass a large section of central Downtown, roughly bounded by Temple Street, Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles Street and the 110 Freeway. The tax district would aim to collect $62 million for the project over an expected 30year assessment. So far the effort, which is a key part of 14th District City Councilman José Huizar’s Bringing Back Broadway plan, has secured about $10 million from the nowdefunct Community Redevelopment Agency. Officials with LASI hope to secure another $52 million from the federal government. However, the project has already missed out

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July 2, 2012

Twitter/DowntownNews twice on large federal grants. Despite the council approval, the work is not close to done. Registered voters living in the tax district (including those who rent units) will have to cast ballots in support of the assessments. Tangri said a vote on the tax district will take place by the end of the year. “We’re asking people to invest in Downtown and we’re asking them to invest in their properties,” he said. “We think they’re going to get a very robust rate of return.” However, those who own property within the proposed tax district but do not live within its borders will not be able to cast a vote, Tangri said. He said that is because of a provision in state law that mandates that if there is any contribution from residential property owners, then people living within the tax district must vote instead of just property or landowners. Tangri said approximately 25% of the annual tax is expected to come from condominium owners. Divided Response In order to pass, the streetcar would require a two-thirds approval from voters, Tangri said. The fee proposal could be hard to reach, as Downtown stakeholders are not speaking with one voice on the project. Carol Schatz, president and CEO of the Central City Association and the Downtown

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Downtown News 9

DowntownNews.com

Skid Row’s ‘Community Dog’ Dies Sheba Remembered at Memorial Service by Ryan Vaillancourt staff writer

ome 17 years ago, Georgina Warren was in her tent in a Skid Row parking lot when she heard the unmistakable sound of a dog in despair. Warren, who was homeless and addicted to drugs, crawled out of her tent and walked toward the noise. She found a young German Shepard mix chained to a parking sign pole, a bowl of water just inches beyond her reach. It was hot and the dog was thirsty. Warren jogged over to a nearby mechanic and borrowed some bolt cutters, which she used to free the dog. “After that, she followed me and wouldn’t leave me alone,” Warren said. “She just became my baby.” Warren spent the next 10 years with the dog, but fellow street dwellers shared in the caretaking. If Warren landed in jail, which she did multiple times, someone would watch out for the pet. The animal, which could be protective of Warren’s

shopping cart and aggressive toward strangers, was so widely known and respected that Warren likened her to a queen. She named her Sheba. On Tuesday, June 27, at about 11:30 p.m., Sheba’s reign ended. She was struck by a car on Alameda Street. Warren, who left Skid Row in 2008 and is now in recovery, teared up on Thursday at a sidewalk memorial service on Gladys Avenue that drew about a dozen current and former street dwellers, animal activists and members of the service provider and area street cleaning communities. Lori Weise, founder of Downtown Dog Rescue, which provides an array of services for low-income dog owners, occasionally helped care for the dog. She arranged for Sheba to be spayed and was registered as a contact via the dog’s microchip. That arrangement proved crucial, as Weise was called to pick up Sheba from animal shelters 11 times. Weise always returned her to Skid Row, to whomever was taking care of her. There was always somebody, Weise said.

photo by Gary Leonard

Georgina Warren, left, was the chief caretaker of Sheba, a beloved street dog on Skid Row who was hit by a car last week and died. She was consoled during a sidewalk memorial service by Catherine Harris.

“Sheba was the community’s dog,” Weise said. Weise and others are making arrangements to have the dog’s ashes buried in the garden at the Hippie Kitchen, a Gladys Avenue service center where Sheba regularly lounged. Contact Ryan Vaillancourt at ryan@downtownnews.com.

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Zarate Continued from page 1 continents and paying dues in his evolving culinary career. Then, in the last three years, he took off like a rocket. In that time he went from running a tiny food stall in a far-off-the-beaten track locale to opening two nearly million-dollar restaurants in the space of nine months. “He didn’t give up. He stuck to his dream,” said Walter Manzke, a well-known chef who is working on opening a French restaurant in the Arts District and who got to know Zarate after Mo-Chica debuted. Manzke, who has helmed the kitchens of Bastide and Downtown’s Church & State, praised Zarate’s skills as a chef

July 2, 2012

Twitter/DowntownNews and his tenacity as a businessman. “He’s a great chef and he has fantastic energy and great training,” Manzke said. Widespread Praise Zarate got on Los Angeles’ culinary radar screen in 2009, when he opened the first MoChica in Mercado La Paloma. The indoor market at 36th and Grand Avenue features a combination of food stalls and vendors selling things such as artisan jewelry, pottery and even sports equipment. The approximately 11 items on the menu were a hit. Crowds came for dishes like his ceviche and seco de cordero (lamb shank). Then there were the glowing reviews and awards. Los Angeles Magazine named MoChica one of its Best New Restaurants of 2009. Last year, after Zarate opened Picca, a Peruvian establishment in Beverly Hills, Food

& Wine Magazine awarded him its Best New Chef prize. Merrill Shindler, who hosts a weekly radio show on dining and restaurants on KABC 790 AM and who is a contributing editor to the Zagat Los Angeles restaurant guide, praised Zarate’s strategy. “Opening in el Mercado La Paloma was really clever,” said Shindler. “The cost was low so he was able to do it on a shoestring budget, get photo by Gary Leonard himself noticed and find a Zarate was one of 13 children in a working-class family in Lima. cult following.” “We all had to take a turn in the kitchen helping my mom,” he The following will only exrecalled. “I just happened to get ahead of everyone else.” pand at the new Mo-Chica, an 1,800-square-foot spot on the ground floor of the Coulter and Mandel For Zarate, it’s a point of pride to serve the Building at 514 W. Seventh Street. The mod- cuisine of his homeland. It’s a subject that ern, lounge-like restaurant features rich red makes him wax eloquent. walls, a graffiti-style mural, cement floors and “Peruvian food is like a pot that has been a full bar. cooking for more than 500 years,” he says, There are nearly three times as many his constant smile flashing even wider. “It has menu options as there were in Mercado La ingredients from the Incas — the potatoes, Paloma. They include unexpected offerings the yucca, the maize. It has Spanish and Arab such as a hamburger with a Peruvian twist influences and European as well. — the patty is a mix of alpaca and lamb “It was then followed by Chinese and covered in an aji amarillo (a Peruvian yel- Japanese influences and all this fusion that’s low chile) yogurt dressing. been cooking for hundreds of years,” he Other dishes include the hefty Cau Cau, a continued. “It’s something that’s ready to be tripe stew served with Peruvian potatoes and exported.” mint chimichurri, and the Paiche, a large fish Lima Beginnings found in the Amazon. It is served with ajiaco Before the food could be exported, Zarate de arroz, a sort of stew, and cherry tomato had to export himself. escabeche. As one of 13 children in a working-class Shindler credits Zarate for generating inter- family from Lima, cooking was never really a est in Peruvian food, noting that it has been a choice for Zarate. It was more like a duty. seeming next-big-thing for a few years. “We all had to take a turn in the kitchen

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Downtown News 11

DowntownNews.com it now or it’s over.” Double Tasking Mo-Chica opened at Mercado La Paloma in the summer of 2009. Still, Zarate was working two full-time jobs, getting up at 5 a.m. to pick up his Mo-Chica sous chef and buying ingredients, then heading in the afternoon to Wabi-Sabi, where he often worked until midnight. It was a brutal schedule but also a smart move, said James Sinclair of OnSite Consulting, a hospitality and restaurant consulting firm based in Los Angeles. “I always advise newcomers to just do it. Do it on a shoestring budget,” Sinclair said. “Work sleepless night and prove your concept. This puts you in a better position after you’ve proven yourself.” More than a year later Zarate was able to ditch the second job and focus exclusively on Mo-Chica. As crowds and glowing reviews came, so did those who wanted to invest in his Peruvian vision. Among those who came knocking were Stephane Bombert and Bill Chait, the latter a partner in Downtown’s acclaimed Latin food restaurant Rivera. They teamed with Zarate to spend $800,000 to open Picca, an upscale version of Peruvian cuisine with a Japanese edge, last August. The reviews were effusive. This year GQ Magazine named Picca one of the Ten Best New Restaurants in America. Still, Zarate’s true dream was to expand his original location. That finally began to come together when the Seventh Street space became available (it formerly housed a Sandella’s Flatbread Cafe). He and Bombert spent another $800,000 on the project, which food blogs tracked relentlessly. The opening was perhaps the city’s most eagerly awaited restaurant debut of the year. It’s everything Zarate dreamed of all those years ago. “This is what it was always meant to be,” he said. “This is the vision I always had for Mo-Chica.” Mo-Chica is at 514 W. Seventh St., (213) 6223744 or mo-chica.com. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.

WE ARE BEST START.

How I Built the (Almost) Perfect Boat photo by Gary Leonard

helping my mom,” Zarate recalled at the restaurant, during a break between lunch and dinner service about two weeks after Mo-Chica opened “I just happened to get ahead of everyone else.” After learning from his mom, who was a good cook but didn’t really enjoy the kitchen, Zarate picked up tips from his friends’ mothers. He became known in the neighborhood as the kid who could cook. As a teenager he got a job catering a banquet. He recruited friends to help him buy the ingredients, which included a live octopus they had to haul back in a taxi. At 17 he applied to Lima’s top culinary school, the Institute of the Americas. After graduating two years later a cousin told him there was a wealth of restaurant jobs in London. Zarate made the move but it didn’t turn out as he had hoped — his first job was as a dishwasher atv Benihana. Unwittingly that exposure to Japanese cuisine would pay off. After six months Zarate convinced his bosses to let him try out for a position as hibachi chef. He would ultimately spend about 12 years cooking in England, taking jobs at places such as Axis at One Aldwych and Zuma, a respected Japanese restaurant. It was during this time that he started dreaming of Mo-Chica and showing off the cuisine of his homeland. “I must have cooked 50 or more dinners for investors to get them interested,” he said. “They all loved the food but said the same thing: that no one knew about Peruvian food here.” With his attempts to open his own place in England going nowhere, Zarate accepted an offer from the Millennium Hotel Group to run the kitchen at Sai Sai in Downtown Los Angeles’ Biltmore Hotel. He arrived in 2003 and spent 18 months revamping the menu. He said sales increased by 300%. After a short stint back in London he returned to the United States and landed at Wabi-Sabi in Venice. Still determined to open Mo-Chica, he decided to invest his life savings of $30,000. “It was time,” he recalled thinking. “Either I do

Master builders and the fruits of their labor. by Jon RegaRdie executive editoR

f I could, I’d claim it was skill that led me to build the third fastest boat at last week’s Psomas Paper Yacht Challenge. Instead, depending on who I’m talking to, I say it was either luck or Band-Aids. The fifth annual event, held at City National Plaza on Thursday, June 28, drew several hundred people. Proceeds from the race and the silent auction raised about $10,000 for beneficiary Para Los Niños, said race organizer and Psomas principal Joel Miller. I know nothing about boat design. I spent maybe 19 minutes Thursday afternoon taping a big, curved sail to a paper box. When Miller saw my boat he said it looked like his. His would sink quickly.

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My 5-year-old daughter Vivian and 3-year-old son George came down for the event. We decorated the craft with a Downtown News banner and, more importantly for them, princess and Spider-Man Band-Aids and owl and flower stickers. As our heat began, a big gust of wind rose up. Our craft caught the breeze and the boat flew across the water in 35 seconds, the third-fastest time among some 55 entrants. Although three seconds slower than the (very well designed) winner, we left with a trophy. I told some people it was dumb, windy luck. I told two others the speed came from BandAids and owl stickers. The trophy now resides in Vivian and George’s room. Contact Jon Regardie at regardie@downtownnews.com.

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RESTAURANTS Restaurant Buzz

Faire Meals, Summer Sipping and More Food News by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR

At 512 W. Sixth St., (213) 347-0211 or kitchenfaire.com.

aire Game: For some people, working in the video game industry would be a dream come true. Not for Owen Timoteo, who yearned to trade the computer screen for the kitchen. So, years ago, he gave up the high-tech gig to become an $8 an hour line cook. That put him on the path to eventually becoming executive chef at Spot 5750 in Hollywood and then Formosa Café in West Hollywood. Now, there’s another twist: Timoteo is the executive chef and co-owner of Kitchen Faire, a 600-square-foot restaurant that opened this month in the Financial District. Timoteo will focus on seasonal items and plans to change the menu often, with an emphasis on sandwiches, wraps, salads and soups. “If it’s not at the farmer’s market, you shouldn’t have to eat it,” he said. Current options include spicy ahi, pulled pork and meatless dishes such as caprese (mozzarella and tomato).

Sunny Sipping: Water may be the best thing one can drink during the summer. That’s nice and all, but Drago Centro and Church & State have other ideas for the season — each recently introduced a new summer cocktail menu. At Drago the selections includes something called the “Down the Rabbit Hole,” made with Novo Fogo Cachaca, a Brazilian liquor fashioned from sugarcane, blackberries, kiwi, lime and sage. There’s also the “Summer Dalliance,” with Nolet’s gin, St. George absinthe, lemon, cherries and prosecco. At Church & State, thirsty visitors can try the “Strawberry Fields,” with vodka, strawberries and sage, or “Splendor in the Grass,” made with gin, lime, parsley and cucumber. Take that water! Drago Centro is at 525 S. Flower St., (213) 228-8998 or dragocentro.com. Church and State is at 1850 Industrial St., (213) 405-1434 or churchandstatebistro.com.

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In Towne: An early July opening, which would mean any day now, is expected for Towne Food & Drink in South Park. Why should you care? Homemade Twinkies, that’s why. The 200-seat establishment on the ground floor of the Watermarke Tower will have a bakery helmed by Tamara Davis, the opening pastry chef at Bottega Louie, who will be making Twinkies along with blueberry donuts, macaroons and cupcakes. If you lack a sweet tooth, the American food menu with a “modern world influence” will offer dishes such as sliders, flatbreads, salads, pastas and razor clam ceviche. There will also be a wood grill and oven where whole grilled fish and dry-aged meats will be prepared. The 7,000-square-foot business comes from Armen Shirvanian, owner of Mi Piace restaurant in Pasadena. At 705 W. Ninth St., (213) 623-2366 or towne-la.com. Hello Soleto: About a year ago Zucca closed its doors at 801 S. Figueroa St., ending a nearly decade-long run of serving upscale Italian cuisine. Now, the space is ready to be activated again, and while the Italian theme continues, the vibe in a joint a few blocks north of L.A. Live will be much more relaxed. Soleto Trattoria & Pizza Bar is scheduled to open this month with a focus on Southern Italian cooking. The restaurant from the Innovative Dining Group, whose creations include destination spots such as Sushi Roku, BOA Steakhouse, Katana and Robata Bar, will serve dishes including oven-baked meatballs and grilled oyster mushrooms. Among the pasta selections will be rigatoni ragù with

house-made sweet sausage. Pizza choices will include the All Natural Pepperoni, a Brooklyn White Pie and a Truffled Proscuitto. There will also be panini and salad options. It will be open MondaySaturday with Happy Hour from 3-7 p.m. on weekdays. At 801 S. Figueroa St., (213) 622-3255 or soletorestaurant.com. Getting Brighter: Almost everything nightlife queen Dana Hollister touches becomes cool. Now, the proprietor of One-Eyed Gypsy and Villains Tavern is about to put a firm grasp on the Brite Spot. Hollister, who has coowned the decades-old diner on Sunset Boulevard for about seven years, recently took over as the sole owner and is planning some updates for the 1949 restaurant. Construction on a new, approximately 40-seat patio will start in a couple of weeks, she told Restaurant Buzz. Hollister also plans to make some changes to the interior and bring it back to what it looked like in the 1940s and ’50s. She isn’t sure what that means yet, saying she’ll likely be inspired as she goes along. Meanwhile, a new menu will debut July 4 with additions such as a steak and short rib burger, oversized biscuits, rib plates and salads. She said there are no plans to close the restaurant while renovations take place. The changes were first reported by the website LAist. At 1919 W. Sunset Blvd., (213) 4849800 or facebook.com/thebritespot. Phoebe Unterman contributed to this story. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.

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Ayes and Neighs ‘War Horse’ Rides Into Town, Complete With Puppeteers

The drama War Horse won five Tony Awards, including Best Play. The show, now at the Ahmanson Theatre, is known as much for its plot as for the puppeteers who control Joey, the equine lead.

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anny Yoerges takes his horseplay very seriously. As part of a team controlling the lead puppet in the wildly acclaimed play War Horse, his preparation involved more than practicing his best whinny. “We spent two weeks learning everything there is to know about horse psychology,” he said, “and to mimic sounds and run the gamut of all horse actions, like galloping and trotting and eating.” That, Yoerges explained, is part of the magic that breathes life into Joey, the horse in the play that won five 2011 Tony Awards, including Best Play. The National Theatre of Great Britain’s touring production of War Horse opened at the Ahmanson Theatre on Friday, June 29, and will continue through July 29. Based on the 1982 novel by Michael Morpurgo, War Horse has had lauded stagings using life-size equine puppets, first in London and then on Broadway. It was also made into a film last year by Steven Spielberg — despite an Oscar nod for Best Picture, reviews were mixed. War Horse tells the story of an English boy named Albert and his beloved horse. When World War I strikes, Joey is sent to France as part of the cavalry. Although Albert is too young to enlist, he is determined to find the horse. From its inception in Nick Stafford’s adaption for the stage, the star of the show has been Joey. That’s thanks to the wizardry of the Handspring Puppet Company, which received a special Tony Award, and the stress placed upon character over simple construction. “Joey really does have a personality. It’s not just some random horse-like thing,” said Andrew Veenstra, who plays Albert. “We have charts from rehearsal that have all the character attributes true to the horse.” The large horse requires a three-person team of puppeteers, working closely together, to manipulate it. In his particular team, Yoerges oversees the head, Brian Robert

film The Black Stallion, anyone? — but cast members said the story is told originally and packs an emotional wallop. “There are so many heartwarming messages,” said Yoerges. “You walk away from the theatrical event with so much hope for human kind.” Adds Veenstra, “It’s a life-affirming story about love, about friendship, about taking risks and taking changes and putting yourself out there for something you care about.” There are other things that set the show apart from past equine-propelled productions. The setting during the action of World War I is unique and provides larger insights, as does telling the story through a horse that ends up serving on both sides in the horrific conflict. “[The horse] is completely unbiased in how it views people from different countries and different backgrounds,” Yoerges said. “If we all treated each other the same way, we would have more compassion for each other and we might then find similarities.” Audience members who have already seen the play will note a number of changes to accommodate the different facilities with different dimensions on the tour. Those who haven’t may learn a thing or two about world history. “What’s unique about this story that I didn’t realize is the role that horses in particular played in the history of World War I,” Veenstra said. “It’s something that we all studied in school, but never once did I see mentioned the role of the cavalry.” War Horse runs through July 29 at the Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or centertheatregroup.org. by to pho

Burns controls the heart and Gregory Manley executes the movements of the hindquarters. All three were originally trained as actors, but that only went so far in preparing them for some of the unique challenges of War Horse, such as making realistic horse sounds. “It can’t be done convincingly by one person alone,” Manley said. “So we need to be able to breathe together and also pick up vocal cues inside the horse describing different moves and different whinnies. It sounds much better if it’s multi-phonic.” Original Package Despite the puppet’s central role in the play, Joey’s operators never attempt to mask the fact that they are the ones controlling the creature. Veenstra observes that the tactic is different than most theater, where sleight of hand or visual tricks are meant to provoke oohs and aahs from the audience. There are no secrets here, allowing the audience to stop worrying about “how they did it” and focus on the story and characterization. “What’s unique about War Horse is they don’t try to hide it,” Veenstra said. “You’re very much aware of the puppeteers, but what’s also special is that within 10 seconds or less you forget that they’re there, which I think is pretty brilliant.” At its core, War Horse is about a boy and his love for an animal. It’s certainly not the first production to take on that theme, not even when it comes to horses —1979’s classic

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Inside the Outsiders Debut Show at Chinatown Gallery Showcases Work by Mentally Challenged Artists by Richard Guzmán city editor

hen it comes to the artists and their place in the art world, the new Chinatown show The Outsiders has no credentials whatsoever. After all, the artists are complete unknowns. The gallery, Exhale Unlimited, is brand new, led by an individual with no art world track record. The 800-square-foot space on Chung King Road is easy to miss. That’s not the point, however, for the real-life outsiders whose work is featured in the show. Nor is it the point for Ansen Yew, the full-time physician who is putting his money into his artistic passion. “The Outsiders really encompasses artwork that’s not really the mainstream art or that most artists or an art culture would consider,” said Yew. “We’re going to be a little different than the other galleries because we’re not representing artists. What we are representing is giving.” The Outsiders features about 30 pieces including paintings, prints and sculptures. The show opened June 30 and runs through Aug. 1. The exhibition will benefit two Downtown organizations that work with people who have mental disabilities or suffer from mental illness: the ECF Art Centers and Lamp Community’s Fine Arts Program. The work in the show was created by members of these groups. “This helps them in many ways,” said Hayk Makhmuryan, fine arts coordinator for Lamp. “It helps them to interact with the larger community and helps them overcome the insulation that comes hand in hand with being in an underprivileged community.” It will also give the artists the chance to sell their pieces. Most of the proceeds will go back into the organizations’ art programs. Mid-Life Crisis Lamp Community is a Skid Row-based based nonprof-

it that helps mentally ill homeless people find permanent homes. It also provides various support services, among them an art program. ECF Arts Center is funded by the Exceptional Children’s Foundation, an organization that helps children and adults with mental disabilities. Their studio and gallery space at 828 S. Main St., one of three run by ECF, helps adults from 18-65 with art training. The term “outsider art” has been widely utilized in recent years, usually for people who have a talent but not a traditional arts background or a way into the mainstream arts scene. It has applied not just to visual art, but music as well. The artwork in The Outsiders includes colorful abstract paintings and prints, papier-mâché sculptures depicting wild and chaotic structures that appear to be broken homes, a painting of City Hall from a distance, and a realistic portrait of a woman, possibly a musician, with a penetrating stare. The latter, painted by an ECF artist named David Foster who recently died, is priced at $1,000. Most works in the show cost far less. Raising money is an aim, but so is increasing exposure, said Virginia Arce, gallery coordinator for the Downtown ECF Art Center. “We’re hoping to introduce a lot of new people to all of this work,” Arce said. Arce added that an ancillary aim is to boost attention for the new gallery, which was created with the sole purpose of organizing shows to benefit nonprofit organizations. Referring to Exhale as a “social justice company,” Yew said it came about as the result of a mid-life crisis, but instead of buying a convertible, he decided to invest in an art gallery. “My wife and I had a little money that we were thinking of investing,” he said. “So we decided to invest in trying to make this world a better place.” Yew said he plans to sell merchandise at the gallery, with proceeds from T-shirts and bags also benefitting nonprofit organizations.

photo by Gary Leonard

Physician Ansen Yew’s “mid-life crisis” led to the opening of Exhale Unlimited, a Chinatown art gallery dedicated to helping nonprofit organizations.

Since he has limited experience in the art world, Yew also relates to the theme of his debut show. “I too am an outsider,” he said. “I’m coming in as a physician to a business that I’m not completely familiar with, diving into a different culture. But we are all in a sense an outsider trying to find our place and purpose in the world.” Exhale Unlimited is open Wed.-Sat. from noon-6 p.m. at 953 Chung King Road, (213) 620-8888 or exhaleunlimited.com. The Outsiders runs through Aug. 1. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.

July 2, 2012

Downtown News 15

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The T ’ n o ‘D Miss’ LisT

EVENTS

one

unDing, o P M u r AfiA, D A JAzz M EntAl lAughs AnD EnvironM wntown fun MorE Do eDitor

Everybody needs to relieve a bit of tension every now and then. Some people join a gym and others watch mixed martial arts. Downtowners, meanwhile, can take up the offer of the Music Center’s Active Arts program and participate in the Drum Downtown Latin Rhythm day. On Saturday, July 7, at 10 a.m., join your neighbors at the Music Center Plaza where the ghosts of Tito Puente and Abbie Hoffman join together in an allinclusive Latin drum circle. Bring your friends, bring your drum (though they have plenty of these on hand) and bring your innate sense of rhythm. This percussive frenzy is open to all, but bring earmuffs too, because it gets loud. At 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-7211 or musiccenter.org.

Monday, July 2 Anime Expo 1201 S. Figueroa St., (213) 741-1151 or lacclink.com. July 2: Anime Expo 2012 returns with all of your costume play and manga needs. See tens of thousands of your vibrantly dressed new best friends. Today is your last chance to manga out.

Dan Finnerty is a comedian by trade. You may recognize him as the Best Man from The Wedding Planner or Stacee Jaxx’s manager in the new Rock of Ages. More than likely, you’ll know Dan from the vulgar spectacle of his magnetically irreverent Dan Band. A satirical take on that lousy house band you’ve seen at a thousand Midwest bars, the Dan Band takes your favorite rock songs and pushes them to the extreme. Histrionic-riddled delivery and interposed profanity are on display on Saturday, July 7, as Finnerty and company take Club Nokia by storm. Leave the kids at home. Showtime is 9 p.m. at 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or clubnokia.com.

Wednesday, July 4 Fourth of July Celebration California African American Museum, 600 S. State Drive, (213) 744-7432 or caamuseum.org. 11 a.m.: CAAM celebrates America’s 236th birthday with patriotic musical performances and spoken word. The show begins at 6 p.m. with fireworks afterward.

MORE LISTINGS Hundreds of listings of fun and interesting things to do in Downtown Los Angeles can also be found online at ladowntownnews.com/calendar: Rock, Pop & Jazz; Bars & Clubs; Farmers Markets; Events; Film; Sports; Art Spaces; Theater, Dance and Opera; Classical Music; Museums; and Tours.

2 yOuR EVENT INfO

EASy WAyS TO SuBMIT

4 WEB: LADowntownNews.com/calendar 4 EMAIL: Calendar@DowntownNews.com

Email: Send a brief description, street address and public phone number. Submissions must be received 10 days prior to publication date to be considered for print.

photo courtesy of Kristina Wong

Thursday, July 5 SAMO Reading at Last Bookstore 453 S. Spring St., (213) 488-0599 or lastbookstorela.com. 8 p.m.: Enjoy readings from SAMO. Presumably enthusiastic about Jean Michel Basquiat, the program features blogger and writer Dave Schilling.

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photo courtesy of Goldenvoice

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photo courtesy Music Center

SPONSORED LISTINGS Bar 107 107 W. Fourth St, (213) 625-7382, facebook.com/bar107 or twitter.com/bar107. July 3, 9 p.m.: Bar 107’s monthly full moon party is back. The bar turns off all the lights and covers the place in moonlight. Blue Moon bottles are $3. Pints are $4 and wells are $5. Never a cover, never a dress code. DJ starts at 10 p.m. Getting your life together will start the day after. L.A.’s Largest Mixer XIV Shrine Auditorium Expo Center, 700 W. 32nd St., (323) 230-5656 or lamixer.com. July 19, 5-9 p.m.: Join Los Angeles area chambers and business organizations for The Ultimate Business Networking Event. Mix and mingle with hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of business people representing industries and companies in and around Southern California. L.A.’s Largest Mixer XIV is an opportunity to reach small to large companies, meet new clients and learn how the different chambers of commerce and business organizations can make your business grow. Mixer admission: $20 per person (no credit cards). Pershing Square Downtown Summer Stage 562 S. Olive St., (213) 485-1645 or laparks.org/ pershingsuare July 11-Aug. 18: The Pershing Square Downtown Stage will host 6 weeks of free events. Lunch-time concerts are slated for every Wednesday during the Farmers Market. Alternative bands perform on Thursday Evenings. Friday nights are for “Under the Sheet Music” — a music film series. Saturday’s Downtown Stage presents Berlin, The Fixx, Modern English, John Waite, The Bangles, John Doe and Rev. Horton Heat. All events are free and open to the public. Little Tokyo Annual Sake and Food Tasting Vibiana, 214 S. Main St., sake.ltsc.org. July 19, 7 p.m.: Enjoy sake, beer and shochu sampling while pleasing your palate with various servings by popular restaurants and eateries in a festive atmosphere. Visit sake.ltsc.org for full event details. General admission is $75; for entrance to the VIP reception at 6 p.m., tickets are $125.

photo by Gudmundur Vigfusson

LISTINGS

There’s nothing funny about climate change, environmental catastrophe and the plunder of the natural world. Well, usually. This week, there’s a chance to turn all the talk of planetary doom into sustainable laughs. Comedian and environmentalist Kristina Wong is the force (read, writer and star) behind the new play Going Green the Wong Way. The show, which opened at the Bootleg Theater June 28 (it runs through July 15) highlights the hazards of living clean in a dirty world and the inherent struggles of being responsible to Mother Nature. Performances are Thursday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. At 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org.

It wouldn’t be the Fourth of July without copious fireworks. Sadly, Los Angeles County has some pretty strict rules about novelty explosives, so save yourself the hassle of heading on a Tijuana M-80 run for a backyard extravaganza and instead enjoy this Independence Day in the relative comfort of Exposition Park. Starting at sunset, the park’s complimentary Wednesday evening fireworks show will illuminate the night sky. Civic explosions are only the capstone to a day of fun. The California Science Center, California African-American Museum and the Natural History Museum will all be open. From Dino tours at NHM to spoken word at CAAM, enjoy a multitude of America. At 700 Exposition Park Dr., (213) 744-7458 or expositionpark.org.

Send information and possible Don’t Miss List submissions to calendar@downtownnews.com.

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Contact Cartifact for the full-color, every-building version of this map . Available in print, web and mobile media.

700 S. Flower St, # 1940 Los Angeles, CA 90017 213.327.0200 maps�cartifact.com

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July 2, 2012

Downtown News 17

DowntownNews.com

CLASSIFIED

place your ad online at www.ladowntownnews.com

FOR RENT

L.A. Downtown News Classifieds Call: 213-481-1448

“Be wary of out of area companies. Check with the local Better Business Bureau before you send any money for fees or services. Read and understand any contracts before you sign. Shop around for rates.”

Classified Display & Line ad Deadlines: Thursday 12 pm REAL ESTATE RESIDENTIAL

FOR RENT

lofts/unfurnished

Old Bank District The original Live/Work Lofts

Lofts for Sale

Downtown since 2002

Bill Cooper

213.598.7555 Out of State 3-8 HOME sites in New Mexico near AZ border. Views, trees, underground utilities, water. From $24,995! Lowest prices ever! Call now! 888-812-5830 www.hitchingpostland.com. (Cal-SCAN) Vacation Homes ADVERTISE Your vacation property in 240 California newspapers for one low cost of $600. Your 25 word classified ad reaches over 6 million+ Californians. Free brochure call Elizabeth (916)288-6019. (CalSCAN)

Apartments/Unfurnished One Month Free! 2 units AVAILABLE, $650/ STUDIO, $500/ Room for rent, laundry on-site, 433 COTTAGE HOME ST. L.A. IN CHINATOWN 818593-9060. SENIOR APARTMENTS 62 + Studio $800 1 Bedroom $921 Balcony, Full Kitchen, A/C, Clubhouse, BBQ, Resource room, Laundry, SEC 8 O.K. Visit GSL SAN LUCAS.com 213-6232010. Rooms

Call 213.253.4777 LAloft.com

EMPLOYMENT Computers/IT Administrative Services Manager/Computer User Support Specialist, Bachelor in Administration and CompTIA A+ Certification. Mail resume to Prodee University, 3251 W 6th St #420, Los Angeles CA 90020. Drivers

DOWNTOWN LA Affordable housing for single women! $255/ mo. Must be homeless and disabled. Pick-up application at 442 South San Pedro St. (213) 680-0600.

(2 blocks west of San Pedro St.) Starting Jan. 1, 2011

Solicita personal para trabajo de Limpieza en area de Los Angles. Janitorial positions open Los Angles Area. Details call 800-660-2092

Help Wanted INTERNATIONAL cultural exchange Representative: Earn supplemental income placing and supervising high school exchange students. Volunteer host families also needed. Promote world peace! www. afice.org/reps (Cal-SCAN)

SERVICES attorneys

ABOGADO DE IMMIGRACION! Immigraiton, Criminal, Accidents. Child Support/ Custody over 25 years’ experience. Necesita Permiso de trabajo? Tagalog / Español / Korean / Mandarin Chinese

Get your GREEN CARD or CITIZENSHIP Law Office of H. Douglas Daniel Esq., (213) 689-1710

ComputerS/IT MY COMPUTER works. Computer problems? Viruses, spyware, email, printer issues, bad internet connections - Fix it now! Professional, U.S.-based technicians. $25 off service. Call for immediate help. 1-888-865-0271 (Cal-SCAN) Business Services ADVERTISE A display business card sized ad in 140 California newspapers for one low cost of $1,550. Your display 3.75x2” ad reaches over 3 million+ Californians. Free brochure call Elizabeth (916)288-6019. (CalSCAN) ADVERTISE YOUR Truck driver jobs in 240 California newspapers for one low cost of $600. Your 25 word classified ad reaches over 6 million+ Californians. Free brochure call Elizabeth (916)288-6019. (CalSCAN)

REACH CALIFORNIANS with a classified in almost every county! Experience the power of classifieds! Combo~California Daily and Weekly Networks. One order. One payment. Free Brochures. elizabeth@cnpa.com or (916)288-6019. (Cal-SCAN) Cleaning CONCEPTO’S CLEANING Crew. Professional, experienced, cleans apartments, homes, offices and restaurants. Call for a quote. 323-459-3067 or 818-409-9183. Financial Services EVER CONSIDER a Reverse Mortgage? At least 62 years old? Stay in your home & increase cash flow! Safe & Effective! Call Now for your free DVD! Call Now 888-698-3165. (Cal-SCAN) NOTARY Joe Kennedy CALIFORNIA NOTARY PUBLIC, I travel. Call now for quote, 818 919-4569. Education ATTEND COLLEGE online from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice, *Hospitality. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified. Call 888-210-5162 www.CenturaOnline.com (Cal-SCAN) Continued on next page

Furnished single unit with kitchenette, bathroom. Excellent location. Downtown LA. Weekly rate $275 inc.

Downtown since 2002

Monthly from $550 utilities paid. (213) 612-0348

213.478.0499 Employment: Lead Database Administrator

Bill Cooper 213.598.7555 TheLoftExpertGroup.com RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE

DRE # 01309009

Voted BEST Downtown Residential Real Estate Agent!

LOFT LIVING

Your number 1 source for Loft sales, rentals and development! DowntownNews.com

GOOD NEWS company drivers Only 6 Months Experience Needed! New Trucks Arriving Daily. Pets Welcome. New Pay Plan. O/O’s, Lease-Purchase Drivers Needed. CDL-A. 888-440-2465 www.drivenci.com. (Cal-SCAN)

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

Leas

madison hotel Clean furnished single rooms. 24-hour desk clerk service. •Daily, $30.00 •Weekly, $109.00 •Monthly, $310.00 (213) 622-1508 423 East 7th St.

DRIVERS: CLASS A CDL Driver Training. Ask about our zero training cost when you enroll in classes the weeks of 7/02 or 7/09, with employment commitment. Experienced Drivers also Needed! Central Refrigerated. 1-877-369-7091. www. CentralTruckDrivingJobs.com (Cal-SCAN)

Labor/Warehouse

ATTENTION: DRIVERS. Great miles + Top 5% Pay = Money. Security + Respect = Priceless. 2 Months CDL Class A Experience. 877-258-8782 (Cal-SCAN)

the LOFT expert!

DRIVERS - CHOOSE your hometime from Weekly, 7/ON-7/ OFF, 14/ON-7/OFF, Full or Parttime. Daily Pay! Top Equipment! Requires 3 months recent experience. 800-414-9569. www. driveknight.com (Cal-SCAN)

Monthly from $695 utilities paid. (213) 627-1151

Fully furnished with TV, telephone, microwave, refrigerator. Full bathroom. Excellent location. Downtown LA. Weekly maid service.

Downtown L.A. 2 bed, 2.5 bath South Park Corner Unit View Designer Furnished w/ Balcony $5,800/mo.

DRE# 01889449

TheLoftExpertGroup.com

from $1,295 Cafes, Bars, Shops, Galleries, Parking adjacent. Pets no charge

All submissions are subject to federal and California fair housing laws, which make it illegal to indicate in any advertisement any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, familial status, source of income or physical or mental disability. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

Month to Month $950. 1bedroom 1 bath Cal Bungalow Duplex

Historic Property Gated parking fenced in • No pets no smoking Close to Downtown, South Pasadena • Bus and Goldline

call 626 590 9496

Syndero, Inc. in Los Angeles, CA seeks Lead Database Administrator to lead small engineering team to support applications, database users & business reporting requirements. Provide hands-on database management. Req. Masters deg. in CS, EE or rel fld., & 2 yrs exp in job offered or as a Database Administrator/Analyst. Please fax to K. Hoye at (213) 342-3798 ref. job code S244-S010

Premiere Towers

7000 sqft. Basement Space ✦ set up for Gallery/Office space

Call For PRice

• w/Gallery Lights • Wide Private (Spring St.) Entrance • Ideal for Art Gallery, SPA, Office Space • Wired for internet service/telephone outlets • Prime Location in Downtown (Gallery row, residential area, wine bar, café, market)

213.627.6913 | cityloftsquare.com

Do you have something to sell?

Ad Copy: _________________________________________

Ad Prices

________________________________________________

(Marketplace and Automotive Categories ONLY) • Items under $300 • Items $301 to $500 • Items $501 to $1200 • Items $1201 to $2000 • Items $2001+…

Name: Address: City Phone: Cash $ Credit card #: Exp. Date:

FREE! $11.50 $14.00 $16.50 $19.00

12 words, 2 weeks 15 words 15 words 15 words 15 words

All ads run for 2 weeks. Ads may be renewed after two weeks for 50% off the original price of the ad.

With a circulation of State Check $

Zip Credit Card $

47,000,

our classifieds get results!

________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________

Restrictions: Offer good on private party ads only. Ads must be pre-paid by cash, check or credit card. Certain classifications excluded. Deadline: Thursday at noon for next issue.

18 Downtown News

July 2, 2012

Twitter/DowntownNews

Continued from previous page

Education

HEaltH & FitnEss

lEgal

HIGH SCHOOL proficiency diploma!!! 4 week Program. Free Brochure & Full Information. Call Now! 1-866-562-3650 ext. 60 www.SouthEasternHS.com (Cal-SCAN)

ATTENTION JOINT & Muscle Pain Sufferers: Clinically proven all-natural supplement helps reduce pain and enhance mobility. Call 877-217-7698 to try Hydraflexin Risk-Free for 90 days. (Cal-SCAN)

SOCIAL SECURITY Disability benefits. Win or Pay Nothing! Start your Application In Under 60 Seconds. Call Today! Contact Disability Group, Inc. Licensed Attorneys & BBB Accredited. Call 877-490-6596. (Cal-SCAN)

IQ TESTED THE LOS ANGELES TEST CENTER offers for a limited time, free intelligence and personality tests. Your IQ, personality and aptitude determine your future. Know them. No Obligations. Church of Scientology 4810 Sunset Blvd. LA. CA. 90027.

FEELING OLDER? Men lose the ability to produce testosterone as they age. Call 888-904-2372 for a free trial of Progene- All Natural Testosterone Supplement. (Cal-SCAN)

Misc. sErvicEs ATTENTION Sleep APNEA sufferers with Medicare. Get free CPAP Replacement Supplies at No Cost, plus free home delivery! Best of all, prevent red skin sores and bacterial infection! Call 888-699-7660. (Cal-SCAN)

EASY AS

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a free Talking Meter and diabetic testing supplies at No Cost, plus free home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 888-781-9376. (Cal-SCAN) SAVE ON Cable TV-InternetDigital Phone. Packages start at $89.99/mo (for 12 months.) Options from all major service providers. Call Acceller today to learn more! Call 1-888-8977650. (Cal-SCAN)

FOR RENT? FOR LEASE? FOR SALE? People are looking here, shouldn’t your ad should be here?

(213) 481-1448

AUTOS PrE-oWnEd

doWntoWn l.a. auto grouP

Over 1000 vehicles on Sale Now!

Nearly Every Make & Model Visit us online

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THE ANSWER TO LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE

DowntownNews.com makesplacing a classified ad in the L.A. Downtown News is easier than ever. Your ad will appear online and in our publication in a couple of easy steps. • Online ads will appear immediately after they are approved. • Print ads must be received before Thursday at noon PST to be processed for the following Monday's edition. Deadlines subject to change for special issues and holidays.

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July 2, 2012

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LEGAL Civil SummonS LOS ANGELES COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT CASE NO. BC464507 PLAINTIff: JIN REE vS. DEfENDANTS: ChOON DO LEE and doeS 1 through 10 notICe! You have been sued. the court may decide against you without your being heard unless you respond within 30 days. read the information below. You have 30 CaLendar daYS after this summons and legal papers are served on you to file a written response at this court and have a copy served on the plaintiff. a letter or phone call will not protect you. Your written response must be in proper legal form, if you want the court to hear your case. there may be a court form that you can use for your response. You can find these court forms and more information at the California Courts online Self-help Center (www. courtinfo.ca.gov/selfhelp), your county law library, or the courthouse nearest you. If you cannot pay the filing fee, ask the court clerk for a fee waiver form. If you do not file your response on time, you may lose the case by default, and your wages, money, and property may be taken without further warning from the court. there are other legal requirements. You may want to call an attorney right away. If you do not know an attorney, you may want to call an attorney referral service. If you cannot afford an attorney, you may be eligible for free legal services from a nonprofit legal services program. You can locate these nonprofit groups at the California Legal Services Web site (www.lawhelpcalifornia. org), the California Courts online Self-help Center (www.courtinfo. ca.gov/selfhelp), or by contacting your local court or county bar association. note: the court has a statutory lien for waived fees and costs on any settlement or arbitration award of $10,000 or more in a civil case. the court’s lien must be paid before the court will dismiss the case. the name and address of the court is: Los angeles County Superior Court 111 n. hill Street Los angeles, Ca 90012 Case number: BC464507 dated: June 29, 2011 the name, address, telephone number, and fax number of Plaintiff’s attorney, or plaintiff’ without an attorney, is: JIn ree 401 n. Bixel Street

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Los angeles, Ca 90026 telephone: 213-482-1804 Clerk by: Shaunya Wesley, deputy notICe to the PerSon SerVed: You are served as an individual defendant PuB. 6/25, 7/02, 7/09, 7/16/12. STATE Of WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT DANE COUNTY DIvORCE SUMMONS CaSe no. 12Fa0691 In re: the marriage of Petitioner: erIKa SaraI MeLendeZ dIaZ and respondent: heVer nIeLZen deLCId FLoreS the State oF WISConSIn, to the PerSon naMed aBoVe aS reSPondent: You are notified that the petitioner named above has filed a petition for divorce or legal separation against you. You must respond with a written demand for a copy of the petition within 40 days from the day after the first date of publication. the demand must be sent or delivered to the court at: Clerk of Court, dane County Courthouse 215 S. hamilton Street, room #1000 Madison, WI 53703 and to erika Sarai Melendez diaz 505 n. Frances, apt. #1006 Madison WI 53703 It is recommended, but not required, that you have an attorney help or represent you. If you do not demand a copy of the Petition within 45 days, the court may grant judgment against you for the award of money or other legal action requested in the Petition, and you may lose your right to object to anything that is or may be incorrect in the Petition. a judgment may be enforced as provided by law. a judgment awarding money may become a lien against any real estate you own now or in the future, and may also be enforced by garnishment or seizure of property. You are further notified that if the parties to this action have minor children, violation of 948.31,

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Wis. Stats., (Interference with custody by parent or others) is punishable by fines and/or imprisonment: If you and the petitioner have minor children, documents setting forth the percentage standard for child support established by the department under 49.22(9), Wis. Stats., and the factors that a court may consider for modification of that standard under 767.511 (1m), Wis. Stats., are available upon your request from the Clerk of Court. You are notified of the availability of information from the Circuit Court Commissioner as set forth in 767.105, Wis. Stats. 767.105 Information from Circuit Court Commissioner. (2) upon the request of a party to an action affecting the family, including a revision of judgment or order under sec. 767.59 or 767.451: (a) the Circuit Court Commissioner shall, with or without charge, provide the party with written information on the following, as appropriate to the action commenced: 1. the procedure for obtaining a judgment or order in the action. 2. the major issues usually addressed in such an action. 3. Community resources and family court counseling available to assist the parties, 4. the procedure for setting, modifying and enforcing child support awards, or modifying and enforcing legal custody or physical placement judgments or orders. (b) the Circuit Court Commissioner shall provide a party, for inspection or purchase, with a copy of the statutory provisions in this chapter generally pertinent to the action. If you require reasonable accommodations due to a disability to participate in the court process, please call: (608) 266-4311 at least ten (10) working days prior to the scheduled court date. Please note that the court does not provide transportation. dated: april 2, 2012 CarLo eSQueda, Clerk of Courts By Karen B. More, deputy Clerk PuB 7/2, 7/9, 7/16/2012

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OF DOWNTOWN L.A. OF DOWNTOWN L.A. Editor & PublishEr: Sue Laris GENErAl MANAGEr: Dawn Eastin ExEcutivE Editor: Jon Regardie citY Editor: Richard Guzmán stAFF writEr: Ryan Vaillancourt coNtributiNG Editor: Kathryn Maese coNtributiNG writErs: Dave Denholm, Jeff Favre, Greg Fischer, Kristin Friedrich, Howard Leff, Ryan E. Smith, Marc Porter Zasada Art dirEctor: Brian Allison AssistANt Art dirEctor: Yumi Kanegawa ProductioN ANd GrAPhics: Alexis Rawlins

PhotoGrAPhEr: Gary Leonard AccouNtiNG: Ashley Schmidt AdvErtisiNG dirEctor: Steve Nakutin clAssiFiEd AdvErtisiNG MANAGEr: Catherine Holloway AccouNt ExEcutivEs: Catherine Holloway, Sol Ortasse sAlEs AssistANt: Claudia Hernandez circulAtioN: Jessica Tarr distributioN MANAGEr: Salvador Ingles distributioN AssistANts: Lorenzo Castillo, Gustavo Bonilla

Editor & PublishEr: Sue Laris

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Los Angeles Downtown News 1264 W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 phone: 213-481-1448 • fax: 213-250-4617 web: DowntownNews.com email: realpeople@downtownnews.com facebook: L.A. Downtown News twitter: DowntownNews The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read newspaper for Downtown Los Angeles and is distributed every Monday throughout the offices and residences of Downtown Los Angeles.

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July 2, 2012

SUPPORT LOCAL

JOURNALISM Dear Readers: Freedom of the Press does not mean the press is free. And a free newspaper only appears to be free. Increasingly, as the economy shifts and changes, the formula of producing a weekly print newspaper and a daily online publication on the sole revenue stream of advertising dollars does not compute. It doesn’t pencil. To continue to deliver timely, original local news based on the principles of journalistic objectivity and relevance — our hallmark for 40 years — we are inviting you, our dedicated readers, to become paid supporters. We are asking for your participation — we need your participation — at a level of support beginning at $5 per month, or you can make a lump sum donation. For details please go to LADowntownNews.com/supportlocaljournalism to learn more. When we started the paper in 1972, Los Angeles was famously 88 small towns in search of a city. Over the last four decades, Los Angeles has found its city, and it is Downtown. Downtown Los Angeles has become one of the most powerful communities in the world, and we Downtowners — residents, workers, everyone — are its citizens. From Chinatown to LA Live, from the Arts District to Disney Hall, from the Historic Core to the gleaming towers of the Financial District, you’ll find the Downtown News and its readers. From new residents and businesses to the stalwart pioneers of Downtown, we’re in it together. Downtown News is the award-winning news organization that has reported on every major news story impacting the area for forty years, helping to spur local growth and a sense of community. We like to think we’ve played a key part in giving Downtown the strong identity it has today. As a paid supporter you will receive something very special: your photograph (or that of your favorite charity) with not only your name but the name of your favorite charity printed in the paper and uploaded to our website, complete with a link to your charity’s website. The link can even be to your child’s school if you like. Or maybe you have a charity you admire but haven’t been able to give to. Every contributor who commits to at least the minimum donation will receive this opportunity to give publicity to his or her charity. Please go to LADowntownNews.com/supportlocaljournalism to make your contribution. Or mail it if you prefer. We thank you — and welcome you to the Downtown News team. Warmest regards,

Sue Laris Editor, Publisher and Owner Los Angeles Downtown News 1264 W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 sue@downtownnews.com

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