08-29-11

LOS ANGELES

DOWNTOWN

NEWS

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A Little Tokyo robber is arrested, and other happenings Around Town.

The city’s birthday is coming. So what would you get for Los Angeles?

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

August 29, 2011

Volume 40, Number 35

INSIDE

Rock out in Downtown

Big Numbers and Bigger Dollars Demographics Study Shines Light on Downtown Population and Its Spending Power

Urban Scrawl on Signs of the Times.

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Olvera tenants receive rent discounts.

9

Another big South Park hotel project.

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photo by Gary Leonard

A demographic study released last week found that the median household income in Downtown is $86,300. It is more than $30,000 higher than the median household income in Los Angeles County.

by Jon Regardie executive editor

Get all the latest Health news.

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Even more restaurants come Downtown.

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15 CALENDAR LISTINGS 16 MAP 17 CLASSIFIEDS

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hile there may be no such thing as an average Downtown resident circa 2011, the collective base of people living in the community have some pretty clear characteristics: They are affluent, though maybe not as rich as they were a few years ago. They tend to have jobs. They frequently drive alone to

work. And they really want Trader Joe’s to open in Downtown Los Angeles.

Those are some of the findings that were unveiled last week in a study of the people who live, work in or visit the community.

The Downtown Los Angeles Demographic Study 2011, compiled by the Downtown Center Business Improvement District (Los Angeles Downtown News was a partner in the study), found that, in many

regards, the community is largely similar to the neighborhood three years ago. The DCBID’s previous survey covered Downtown in 2008.

“Our population is young, well-educated and affluent,” said Carol Schatz, president and CEO of the DCBID, at the study’s roll-out on Tuesday, Aug. 23, at the FIGat7th shopping center.

The report is based on 11,323 surveys conducted see Demographics, page 8

City Pays Premium for Maguire Gardens Financial District Haven Costs Significantly More to Maintain Than Larger Downtown Parks

by Ryan Vaillancourt staff writer

T

he gentle trickle of seven different water fountains helps make Maguire Gardens, the 2.3-acre park at the west entrance to the Central Library, a calming oasis in the heart of the concrete-laden Financial District.

Those seven fountains stand out for another reason — they contribute to making the park more expensive for the cash-strapped

city than other, larger Downtown parks, including one that is five times its size.

Since 1993, the city has paid property giant MPG Office Trust, which owns the site, to maintain it. This month, the City Council nixed a renewal of the contract. The move came after Ninth District Councilwoman Jan Perry expressed unease about a clause that called for an automatic increase in the amount the city would pay each year. see Park, page 6

photo by Gary Leonard

The maintenance tab for Maguire Gardens in 2010 was $246,737.

The cost is far higher than other local parks, including Vista Hermosa, which is almost five times larger.

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2 Downtown News

August 29, 2011

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AROUNDTOWN CRA Extends Cleantech Loan, Still No Deal

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he Community Redevelopment Agency has extended the loan on the 20-acre site of the proposed Cleantech Manufacturing Center through February 2012, giving the agency more time to negotiate a deal for a developer to take it over. The CRA board approved a deal to extend the $15.4 million East West Bank loan, which was originally due in May (the bank had already extended it to July).

The agency will continue to pay $42,000 per month in interest. The move comes after a deal to sell the site near 15th Street and Washington Boulevard fell through in May, when developer Genton Property Group backed out, citing contamination issues. CRA spokesman David Bloom said the agency is now negotiating exclusively with Trammell Crow, a firm that finished second, behind Genton, in the bidding to buy and develop the land. The CRA, however, remains hamstrung from making any significant deals; board actions won’t take effect until the state Supreme Court considers constitutional challenges to recent legislation that forced California redevelopment agencies to pay $1.7 billion to the state in order to remain in existence, Bloom said.

Man Tied to Little Tokyo Robberies Arrested, Deported

A

man accused of robbing two elderly women in Downtown has been arrested and deported to Mexico. Adan Peralta, 25, was captured by LAPD officers after a tipster told police about hearing Peralta and his brother brag about committing the robberies.

In both instances, a man ripped necklaces

off the necks of women pushing walkers in Little Tokyo. One victim was 68 and blind.

Peralta, a resident of Mexico, was deported because the District Attorney was at first unwilling to file robbery charges without an eyewitness. The man wore a black backpack in both instances, leading police to dub him the “Backpack Bandit.” After being deported, detectives found a witness who was able to identify Peralta out of a photo line-up. He is now wanted in the U.S. for robbery. Peralta had previously been arrested and deported multiple times, most recently in April, police said.

Program Brings Disadvantaged Youth To USC Games

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lthough the USC Trojans football team can’t compete in a post-season bowl this year, the school is continuing another tradition — bringing economically disadvantaged children to a game at the Coliseum. The university, in partnership with the City West-based L.A. Sports Council Foundation, are soliciting donations for the Touchdown for Youth campaign. Each $30 contribution will allow one child to attend the Sept. 17 contest when the Trojans host Syracuse. Last year 2,000 children attended a game against Arizona State through the program. Touchdown for Youth was founded by Sports Council Foundation board member Sheldon Ausman; in 19 years, 42,000 children have attended games. To donate call (213) 482-6333.

Earthquake Repairs For Far East

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t’s better late then never for the Little Tokyo Service Center, as the organization

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Eli Broad’s $100 million Grand Avenue art museum hit a new milestone last week, when construction crews erected a crane. The facility known as The Broad is slated to open in spring 2013.

prepares to undertake some long-needed earthquake repairs. The National Trust for Historic Preservation recently awarded the organization $7,500 to repair a wall at the Far East Building, which was damaged in the 1994 Northridge earthquake. The structure at 347 E. First St. is actually made up of three buildings, including a new addition added after the earthquake. The brick walls on the two older buildings were not repaired in 2003, when the LTSC restored the complex after it had been closed for about 10 years. The proerty holds a cafe, 16 affordable housing units and the LTSC’s computer learning center.

Historic Core Cafe Shuts Its Doors

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fter nearly five years, Harlem Place Café has closed. It’s the end of an off-the-beaten path coffeehouse that opened as Lost Souls Cafe in 2006. The spot in Harlem Place Alley, between Spring and Main streets, south of Fourth Street, closed briefly last year before

returning as Harlem Place. Now, landlord Gilmore Associates is looking to fill the space with a wine bar. A Gilmore representative said the firm is in talks with several potential tenants, but that there is no timeline for opening.

More Housing Near USC

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EDITORIALS Something Funny About Downtown

Urban Scrawl by Doug Davis

E

veryone knows that Downtown Los Angeles is a busier, better place than it was a decade ago, and that the influx of tens of thousands of residents has spurred the creation of scores of bars, restaurants and service businesses. Yet those are not the only new arrivals. As Los Angeles Downtown News reported last week, the community is also seeing a surge in comedy clubs.

This is another of the wonderful twists in the evolution of the community, a development impossible to predict even five years ago. It is also something that makes the neighborhood richer and more attractive both to those who spend time here and to outsiders. The people who have worked to grow this scene deserve a great deal of credit, and we hope they’ll stick with it, even if it is sometimes an uphill battle. They are providing another rich thread in an increasingly diverse Downtown.

As with many of the “small” improvements in the Central City — separate from the high-rises and the mega-million dollar entertainment venues — the growth of the comedy scene is grassroots and independent.

It is only possible because of what has happened Downtown in the last few years. The influx of young people, both as residents and nightlife patrons, created a natural customer base. Many comedy fans are weary of the expensive cover charges and drink minimums at established clubs in other parts of Los Angeles. They are eager for a different way to get their laughs, and the Downtowners don’t want to drive far to do it.

The Downtown comedy clubs are not as polished as the veterans, and for many patrons, that’s a good thing. Often there’s a gritty or makeshift quality, the producers staging weekly or monthly events inside other venues because they don’t have the audience, money or connections to open a standalone club.

While that means a certain level of instability — comedy nights in Downtown come, go and sometimes change location — it also injects an energy and a freedom into the performances. Since producers don’t have to pay exorbitant rents, they don’t have to depend on mainstream touring and “Tonight Show” comedians to headline and bring in huge crowds. The result is a freedom in the sets and the ability to nurture local talent and let newbies find an audience.

A lot of credit goes to Kevin Garnier and Garrett Morris, who founded the Downtown Comedy Club in 2007. They have stuck with their dream, even as they are now in their sixth home. Although others had tried comedy nights before them, they have had the fortitude to keep finding locations and booking shows. They have proved that comedy can succeed in the area, if you stick with it.

Now others are following their lead.

Downtowners can laugh when the Hamclown Show hits the Alexandria Hotel and when Holy [expletive] fills the Downtown Independent. The producers of these and other nights all know and nurture each other. They should continue to do just that. They’re making a Downtown a more fun, and funnier, place.

A Packed Downtown Summer

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lthough fall doesn’t officially arrive until Sept. 21, and in Los Angeles the warm weather will continue for weeks or even months after that, for all practical purposes we’re coming to the end of summer. The City Council is enjoying its August recess and many residents and workers have gone on endof-the-season vacations. It’s just a week until Labor Day, when people return to their jobs or to class.

This provides an early opportunity to ask that seasonal question: How was your summer?

For Downtown Los Angeles, it turns out it was packed.

A lot has happened since Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer. Since the May 30 holiday, Downtown has seen some major projects approved and the opening of several new restaurants. The community’s calendar was jammed with outdoor entertainment. A batch of prominent business gatherings pumped millions into the city’s coffers.

Perhaps the most celebrated happening was the City Council’s Aug. 9 approval of the framework of a deal to create a $1.5 billion football stadium and expanded Convention Center in South Park.

Although the Farmers Field project has miles to go — starting with finding a team and getting NFL approval — reaching agreement with the city was a key accomplishment for hopeful stadium developer Anschutz Entertainment Group.

Local government bodies made other decisions during the summer that could pay off big for Downtown down the road. The most important was the July 12 vote by the County Board of Supervisors to give a contract to architecture firm AC Martin and builder Clark Construction for a $231 million upgrade of the Hall of Justice. The renovation of the 1925 Civic Center landmark was long delayed by a frustrating protest from a failed bidder. Although the building won’t open until late 2014, this move will prove key.

Other important development happenings included the August recommendation by the Community Redevelopment Agency of experienced firm Forest City to take over the beleaguered Blossom Plaza project in Chinatown. Finally, it looks like there is a real chance to activate a blighted property. Meanwhile, on June 30, a consultant hired by the city turned in a plan to streamline the cumbersome and frequently frustrating permitting process. Parts of it are already being implemented.

Downtown saw a huge wave of visitors this summer. The E3 video game convention in June had an estimated $25 million economic impact. While that was huge, it was dwarfed the following

month by the Microsoft World Partners Conference. The five-day event was the city’s biggest convention ever, spurring $48 million in local spending and filling local restaurants and hotels. The convention happened to overlap with the less lucrative but higherprofile visit of Prince William and Catherine Middleton. Their honeymoon whirlwind included stops at Downtown’s Belasco Theatre and Inner-City Arts.

The community’s influx of dining and nightlife choices continued unabated. City Hall types got a new eating option when the Homeboy Diner opened in the building in June. Urbano Pizza landed in the Financial District the same month, while Downtown got a taste of New Orleans cuisine when Nola’s debuted on Third Street in the Arts District a few weeks later. The vodka bar Silo began serving on Seventh Street in June. Perhaps the hottest summer arrival is the Fashion District’s Pattern Bar, which arrived in July and instantly earned a following for its tapas and cocktails with names such as The Chanel and The McQueen.

During the summer, Downtown had its regular line-up of attention-grabbing free concerts and performances. Crowds from across the region flocked to the music, dance and other events at Grand Performances at the Cal Plaza Watercourt. Pershing Square drew audiences, especially to Friday night films and Saturday evening concerts. Brookfield Properties staged free outdoor performances of a dance version of Alice in Wonderland at Bank of America Plaza.

The Natural History Museum in Exposition Park hit a grand slam with the July opening of the Dinosaur Hall. Other crowds came Downtown for cultural festivals. The Los Angeles Film Festival returned to the community, and the inaugural Radar L.A. featured more than a dozen avant-garde theater troupes performing in some expected and several unlikely locations, including a parking structure.

It wasn’t all celebration. Downtown tried to stomach the debacle that is the Dodgers during the McCourt divorce, and Angels Flight railway was ordered closed on June 9 due to excessive wear on its steel wheels. It reopened July 5. Then there was the leadership tumult at Grand Avenue’s performing arts high school — the institution, which has had two principals in its first two years, is without a permanent principal just before classes begin.

Still, there has been a lot more good than bad, and a lot more than we can possibly list. Suffice to say, it’s been a pretty good summer.

August 29, 2011

Downtown News 5

Opinion

A Legal Ruling’s Unfortunate Impact June Decision Turns Skid Row Sidewalks Into a Health Hazard

by Estela Lopez

more importantly, it has been heavily utilized by the community — precisely because it is a secure and orderly environment.

The annual operating expenses of the center are nearly $120,000. A local property owner donates the warehouse space and, since

O

n June 23, U.S. District Judge Philip S. Gutierrez issued a ruling in a case involving a lawsuit filed on behalf of a group of homeless individuals. Two months later, the impact of his decision is GUEST OPINION

clear: Skid Row sidewalks have been legally converted into scenes we’d imagine in some third world country, not blocks from our own City Hall.

LAPD and Department of Public Works crews are now prohibited from removing abandoned items from Skid Row sidewalks.

Attorneys for eight plaintiffs successfully argued that items such as medicines, clothing and personal papers were confiscated and destroyed after the individuals left them unattended for mere minutes while showering at a mission or using a public bathroom. It’s difficult to imagine police actually having so little to do as to lie in wait to take items left for a few moments on a sidewalk, but the ruling has been made.

It’s the consequence of that ruling that neither the attorneys nor Gutierrez have to live with. We do. Right now, portions of sidewalks along Sixth Street, San Julian Street and elsewhere in Skid Row are impassable due to filthy mattresses, moldy food and items covered in urine, feces, flies and even maggots. The vulnerable physically and mentally ill, many of whom are unable to care for themselves, much less the possessions they hoard as means of protection or trade, have interpreted the ruling to mean the use of the public sidewalks for the personal storage of

these items is now lawful.

I work in Skid Row and live Downtown.

I see the impact of this ruling and it sickens me, especially when there is another solution, one that isn’t as costly as housing or as difficult to site.

Since 2002, hundreds of Skid Row homeless individuals have been storing important personal possessions at the Central City East Association’s (CCEA, where I serve as executive director) Check-in Center/Personal Property Warehouse on East Seventh Street.

The facility currently stores the possessions of more than 600 homeless families and individuals — free of charge, seven days a week.

Through private donations, the number of storage bins has been increased twice in recent years to meet growing demand. The reality is that a private sector-driven solution is working: Not only has the Check-In Center won numerous awards, but also, far

It’s the consequence of that ruling that neither the attorneys nor Judge Gutierrez have to live with.

We do. Right now, portions of sidewalks along Sixth Street, San Julian Street and elsewhere in Skid Row are impassable.

2006, CCEA’s cost to expand the center has been balanced with financial assistance from the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority.

The human tragedy in Skid Row is immeasurable. The narcotics brought in by people

from outside the area are a profitable business. With a target-rich population lying on or wandering aimlessly through the streets, often self-medicating themselves into oblivion, the drug pushers significantly outnumber police and social service outreach workers.

And now these streets are covered with refuse and debris that often hide weapons or drugs, but mostly pose a public health hazard, all in the name of compassion.

What few talk about are the thousands of working poor and disabled people living in Skid Row, who struggle but succeed in paying the area’s modest rents. These individuals and families with children are prisoners in their own homes because of unsafe conditions in the public right-of-way.

CCEA respectfully questions the fairness of Gutierrez’s ruling. Has he considered the rights of the neighborhood’s businesses and poor-yet-housed residents? His ruling does not apply to the City of Los Angeles as a whole. Rather, it singles out one community that now must allow conditions that would never be tolerated in other areas of the city.

CCEA knows well that this is a complex issue. On the subject of unattended personal property — as with many other issues — we call for equity and balance. Let us not forget, however, that the sidewalk is the public’s right of way and that it should not be traded in exchange for a conscience. We must help the thousands of homeless people throughout Los Angeles who need a home, not merely give them a few inches of pavement and call it a day.

Estela Lopez is the executive director of the Central City East Association.

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August 29, 2011

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Park Continued from page 1 The city preserves public access to the library’s west entrance via the park’s plaza and garden areas through an easement. MPG uses more than 10 subcontractors to carry out the work, according to the Library Department.

In 2010, the city paid Maguire $246,737 for maintaining the park. That’s nearly $100,000 more than it costs to maintain the 2.5-acre Grand Hope Park in South Park, and about $50,000 more than the annual maintenance budget for the 10.5-acre Vista Hermosa Park in City West.

If a proposed new three-year contract is approved, the Maguire Gardens maintenance budget would rise 2% a year, reaching $256,706 by 2013. Over three years, the agreement would cost the city $755,117.

Library and MPG officials say the costs are justified in part

because the park, due to its location at the busy intersection of Fifth and Flower streets, gets more use than most open space facilities: The Library Department estimates that Maguire Gardens sees 7,000 daily visitors.

The proposed contract is nevertheless drawing scrutiny.

The city Board of Library Commissioners approved the Maguire Gardens contract in January. The deal was due for consideration by the council’s Arts Parks and Aging committee, but the committee waived the item, sending it directly to the full council on Aug. 19.

That’s when the council rejected the contract and ordered the Library Department to provide a more robust description of its costs. Perry said that, barring further explanation than what is provided in a department report, she is not satisfied with the automatic 2% annual cost increase.

“When I see escalation and it’s ongoing and not specified about why it’s ongoing, that definitely raised a flag for me,” Perry said. “What’s it intended to cover? I need to get that answer before we move on.”

The latest contract between the city and MPG Office Trust expired in October 2010. The landlord has been working on a month-to-month basis ever since.

Compared to What In 1989, MPG’s predecessor, Maguire Thomas Properties, finished construction on what was then known as Library Tower (today it is U.S. Bank Tower). As part of the agreement allowing the firm to erect the 75-story edifice, the company had to create a public park. MPG would manage maintenance, but the city would pick up the tab.

Two decades later, the cost stands out in comparison to the budgets of some other public spaces.

Grand Hope Park, a gated 2.5-acre space that largely serves students of the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, but is also open to the public, is paid for through an assessment district that taxes nearby property owners, and supported by the Community Redevelopment Agency. It cost $156,202 to maintain in 2009 (the latest year for which figures are available), according to a tax return for the nonprofit that the city

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Maintenance Budgets For Downtown Parks A Look at the Costs of Four Downtown Attractions MAGUIRE GARDENS photo by Gary Leonard

Size: 2.3 acres Annual Cost: $251,672, proposed for 2011-2012.

Who pays: The city (MPG Office Trust does the work).

Features: Seven working fountains; mix of soft landscaping and hardscapes; weekly farmer’s market along Fifth Street.

Hours: 24 hours, seven days a week.

Vista Hermosa Natural Park is a 10.5-acre facility in City West. The lightly used attraction costs about $200,000 a year to maintain.

until dusk.

Officials in the business office of the Library Department regularly review Maguire Gardens’ maintenance practices and expenses, said department spokesman Peter Persic.

“The library business office reviews the invoices that Maguire submits and the library business office goes on quarterly walkthroughs of landscape areas to review maintenance and any issues that come up,” Persic said.

Melani Smith, president of the Downtown-based landscape architecture firm Meléndrez, said she was not familiar enough with the details of Maguire Gardens to evaluate its maintenance budget. But if the city is paying a premium, she said, they’re getting a premium product.

“Maguire Gardens is the finest public open space that we have Downtown,” Smith said. “If you’re going to pay, that’s one to pay for.”

Still, when compared to the lower cost of maintaining other larger parks, the Maguire Gardens contract begs a closer look, said First District City Councilman Ed Reyes, who sits on the Arts, Parks and Aging Committee.

“I think the days are gone where we can assume that a certain contract is there because we’re comfortable with it and it was an agreement,” Reyes said. “We can’t afford that any more.”

Contact Ryan Vaillancourt at ryan@downtownnews.com.

GRAND HOPE PARK Size: 2.5 acres Annual Cost: $156,202 in 2009, according to the most recent records available.

Who Pays: A nonprofit raises money through an assessment on nearby properties and contributions from the Community Redevelopment Agency, which bought the site in the 1980s.

Features: Playground for children; grassy lawns; two fountains, only one of which is currently turned on and working; regular entertainment.

Hours: 6 a.m.-8 p.m.

VISTA HERMOSA NATURAL PARK

PERSHING SQUARE Size: 5 acres Annual Cost: Up to $265,732.

Who Pays: The city, through the Department of Recreation and Parks.

Features: Large fountain; wide swaths of concrete; frequent programming.

Hours: 5 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

Costs do not include security.

—Ryan Vaillancourt

Size: 10.5 acres

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Annual Cost: $199,000, according to Dash Stolartz, spokeswoman for the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, which oversees the City West park.

Who Pays: The Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority Features: The park, which occupies a large hillside on the north side of First Street, west of Beaudry Street, is full of native landscaping that requires relatively minimal watering and maintenance, but there are also large patches of grass; picnic tables and benches; restroom facilities; a children’s play area; regular community events.

Hours: Dusk to dawn.

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To plan your trip, check metro.net.

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contracts with to maintain it. The price excludes security costs; the Maguire Gardens maintenance contract also does not include security.

Grand Hope Park has two working fountains and a mix of landscaped areas, including a large patch of grass, and an array of “hard-scaped” areas with benches and irregularly shaped pathways.

Caring for Maguire Gardens also costs about $50,000 more than the $199,000 maintenance budget in 2011 for the 10.5-acre Vista Hermosa Park in City West, according to the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, which operates the attraction. Vista Hermosa is more of an urban wildlife-type park, full of native plants and walking paths. The lightly used facility also has benches, picnic tables, swaths of green grass and a children’s play area.

Several landscape maintenance experts consulted by Los Angeles Downtown News stressed that all parks and public open spaces are very different. They noted that maintenance costs can vary dramatically according to a site’s features, usage and the operator’s standard for quality control.

The maintenance contract for Maguire Gardens covers the park at the west entrance to the library, as well as the landscaping along the south side of Fifth Street, between Grand Avenue and Flower street, and the walkways and plazas south of the library that connect with Flower Street and descend to where Hope Street dead ends.

According to MPG, the higher maintenance costs reflect the fact that the site is in an area with high pedestrian traffic.

MPG spokeswoman Peggy Moretti said the site hosts about 100 events per year, including press conferences — Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa appeared there in July to announce the restoration of Monday library hours — and the filming of public service announcements. The events, paired with a steady stream of library visitors and park loungers, demand regular cleanings, landscape maintenance and janitorial work.

Moretti said that maintaining the seven fountains is also a significant cost. Additionally, Maguire Gardens remains open 24 hours per day. Grand Hope Park operates from 6 a.m.-8 p.m. in the summer, and 6 a.m.-6 p.m. in the winter. Vista Hermosa is open from dawn

Downtown News 7

DowntownNews.com

8 Downtown News

Twitter/DowntownNews

August 29, 2011

Demographics Continued from page 1 online in March and April. It came as the housing stock and the number of people living in Downtown increased: The study says that Downtown now has 28,861 apartments and condominiums (17,823 are identified as market-rate, and 11,038 are classified as affordable), up 11% from three years ago. In that same time period, the number of Downtown inhabitants has climbed 15% to 45,518.

The report is replete with numbers, many of them comparing Downtown residents with the total population of survey respondents. According to the DCBID, 39% of those surveyed live Downtown, while the rest either work in the community or visit for meals, entertainment or something else. The study says that approximately 500,000 people work in Downtown each weekday.

The study found that 83% of the people who live Downtown are employed, the same figure as three years ago. That was a contrast to the total employment level. The 88% of respondents who had jobs in 2008 is now down to 78%.

“The Downtown Los Angeles area fared better than the rest of the region” during the recession, Schatz stated.

There are also changes regarding where people work and how they get there. The report says that 57% of Downtown residents have jobs in the community, a fall from 64%.

Meanwhile, 55% of local inhabitants drive alone to work. In 2008, the figure was 35%.

Use of public transportation for getting to work has also risen. Now 40% of Downtown residents ride the subway, bus, Metrolink or light rail. Three years ago 35% did.

The study found that 20% of Downtowners work in what is labeled the business, pro-

fessional or technical services fields. More surprising was the 19% of respondents who have jobs in the arts and entertainment sector.

“We’re beginning and continuing to build this creative class,” said Schatz.

Wooing Retailers The DCBID uses the information gleaned in the survey to try to recruit new businesses to Downtown. Schatz noted that with the vast number of restaurants that have arrived in the Central City in recent years, the organization is now focusing on getting additional retail in the area. A main concentration, she said, is on Seventh Street between Figueroa and Broadway.

Schatz said that Downtown has a major gap in clothing and similar dry-goods stores.

Thus, she said the BID will use the new study to target independent shops and boutiques.

She said she hopes to persuade merchants who have places on Abbot Kinney in Venice, Santa Monica’s Third Street Promenade or similar areas that the Downtown population has the money and the desire to make those kinds of purchases.

The sentiment was echoed by Bert Dezzutti, senior vice president of Brookfield Properties, the landowner currently undertaking a $40 million renovation of the shopping center on the southwest corner of Figueroa and Seventh streets. Although a Target will open in the mall next fall, he said Downtown is sorely lacking in unique clothing stores.

“It’s not an underserved population. It’s an un-served population,” he said.

Despite the growth in the community, Downtown has felt some economic pain in re-

photo by Gary Leonard

The study found that 74% of Downtowners already patronize Trader Joe’s. It also said that 92% of local residents would shop at the store if one was in the Central City.

cent years. Perhaps the figure most indicative of hard times is the falling household median income level: The $86,300 for Downtowners today is down from $89,900 in 2008.

Schatz attributed the fall to the recession.

Another contributing factor, study analysts noted, is the increasing number of apartments in Downtown. In recent years, many projects originally planned as condominiums instead switched to rentals. That may have meant opportunities to live in the area for people lacking the sizable down payments required for home ownership.

Still, Downtowners seemed to fare better than many others. The survey said that the median income for all respondents dropped nearly $7,000, from $92,200 three years ago to a current $85,500. The median income in L.A. County in 2007, the most recent year for which figures are available, according to the

study, was $54,828.

Other indicators came in how people spend their money. Three years ago, 95% of Downtown residents ate out for lunch at least once a month, and 96% had dinner out during the same time frame. The new study put those levels at 89% for lunch and 92% for dinner.

Whether people buy or rent also appears to be influenced by the times. In 2008, 66% of the Downtown survey respondents rented their homes. Now, 68% of Downtowners rent.

In many regards, the Downtown demographics have not changed much over the past three years. Caucasians still make up the largest segment of the population at 53%, while 22% of inhabitants are Asian/Pacific Islander and 18% identified themselves as Hispanic or Latino. All are within 1% of the

August 29, 2011

Downtown News 9

DowntownNews.com

level three years ago.

Additionally, the median age of Downtowners is 32.5, up slightly from 32.1, and 80% have four or more years of college, an increase from 78%. The study says 54% of Downtown residents are women; in 2008 it was 53%.

Some other findings are not surprising. Pet ownership is growing, with 43% of Downtowners now having an animal companion. In 2008 the figure was 40%.

Then there is shopping. Downtown residents spend an average of $102 per week on groceries, a slight climb from $99 three years ago. The survey shows that 76% shop at Ralphs and 74% patronize Trader Joe’s.

The survey also found that 92% of local residents would likely shop at Trader Joe’s if one existed in the Central City. Schatz noted that numerous attempts have been made to

persuade the Monrovia-based company to consider Downtown, all to no avail.

“They’re tough,” Schatz conceded. “They could make a fortune here.”

Alison Mochizuki, a spokeswoman for Trader Joe’s, confirmed that a shop won’t be opening any time soon.

“In the next 2 years, we have no plans to open a location in Downtown Los Angeles, although it is very nice to be wanted and included in the study,” she said in an email.

Dezzutti noted that the absence of Trader Joe’s and similar specialty grocers helped convince Minneapolis-based Target to include a larger grocery and pharmacy section in the coming store. He said it’s a situation where Trader Joe’s failure to capitalize on Downtown will be Target’s gain.

Contact Jon Regardie at regardie@downtownnews.com.

Numbers Game Statistical Highlights From the 2011 Demographic Study ■ The median age of Downtown residents is 32.5.

■ The median household income is $86,300.

■ 20% of Downtown households have income levels above $150,000.

■ 83% of Downtown residents are employed.

■ 57% of Downtown residents also work in Downtown.

■ 55% drive alone in a car to work.

■ 43% of Downtowners own pets.

■ Downtowners on average attend two sporting events a year, take in music, theater or dance 3.5 times a year, and go to museums or galleries 3.8 times a year.

■ Female Downtown residents outnumber men, 54% to 46%.

■ Only 6% of Downtowners have a child under the age of 5.

Figures from DCBID Downtown Los Angeles Demographics Study 2011.

Olvera Street Discounts

by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR

I

t seems like times are really hard for most Olvera Street merchants.

After resolving a decades-long rent battle with the city in June, a majority of tenants at the historic location claimed a financial hardship option in the new lease agreement. It gives them an immediate discount in their payments to the city.

They are not required to show documentation for their claim.

On June 30, more than 50 members of the Olvera Street Merchants Association signed a concession agreement that will keep them at El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument for up to 40 years.

The deal increased the old rents across the board. However, merchants had an option to lessen rates imposed on them in April 2010 even further.

The rates the city sought came from a January 2010 study that recommended rents of $2-$6.50 per square foot for shop owners. It said tenants of the puestos, the small kiosks in the center of Olvera Street, should pay $950-$1,350 a month. The rent increases followed the low end of the recommendations in that report.

After the majority of tenants refused to pay those rents, negotiations continued.

The new concession agreements are 20year contracts with the option to renew for another 20 years. They start at 25% below the April 2010 level for most tenants and will phase up to fair market value in five years. Tenants also have five years to pay months of back rent and a security deposit.

The merchants were also given the op-

tion to receive further discounts by claiming financial distress; documentation was not required. Merchants who opened their books to the City Controller could reduce their rent even further.

Of the 54 merchants who signed in June, 39 opted for the further discount that does not require documentation.

Their rents will slowly rise until they are at 25% below market rate in three years, then phase into market rate over the following two years.

No merchants chose to receive discounts by opening their books to a city auditor.

“It is not surprising in our down economy that some of the merchants chose that hardship option,” said 14th District City Councilman José Huizar in an email to Los Angeles Downtown News. “What is key is that eventually everybody will be paying higher rents after so many years of uncertainty and El Pueblo will finally be self-sufficient,” Current rents for puesto tenants who claimed hardship range from $408-$732 per month. Tenants of standalone businesses that claimed hardship range from about $1.11-$3.50 per square foot.

Robert Andrade general manager of the city department that oversees Olvera Street, said he too is not surprised most tenants claimed financial hardship. He said he expected more to do so.

“The benefits that I see are not going to be immediate to the department,” he said.

“They will be in five years when we go to market and that’s what we anticipate.”

Contact Richard Guzman at richard@downtownnews.com.

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Regional Connector Transit Corridor > Metro has released a revised draft environmental report on the Regional Connector Transit Corridor light rail line for a 45-day public review. > The two-mile, fully underground route will connect the Metro Gold Line, Metro Blue Line, and future Expo Line through Downtown LA. For more information visit: metro.net/regionalconnector.

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Developer Planning South Park Hotel

mega complex Metropolis off the ground, is courting hotel operators for the project at Francisco and Ninth streets.

AEG President and CEO Tim Leiweke has said repeatedly that South Park needs more hotels. If the stadium plan is realized, he has Convention Center headquarters hotel de- said, it could spur the creation of up to 2,400 buted in March 2010. The following month, new rooms. When Williams’ project was Chinese real estate investor Shenzhen New announced in April, Leiweke predicted that World Group bought the 469-room Los 2011 would see two more hotel projects anAngeles Downtown Marriott at Figueroa and nounced.

Fourth streets.

LeBon and Bral stressed that the Hampton This past March, Korean Air got city ap- Inn project is preliminary, and lacks a timeproval for its $1 billion plan to tear down and line and budget, but “ideally,” LeBon said, renovate the Wilshire Grand. Demolition is the firm would select an architect and initiate slated for next year. the entitlement process “very soon.”

Anschutz Entertainment Group’s plan “We’ve had, for the past four or five years, to build an NFL stadium and expand the pretty slow growth and we don’t go through Convention Center has jolted interest among cycles this long and slow very often,” LeBon hoteliers, who have been increasingly attract- said. “If we start pursuing a project now it Editor PublishEr: Laris two years, said Bruce ed to&the area forSue at least doesn’t come online for a couple to three GENErAl MANAGEr: Dawn Eastin Baltin, senior vice president of hotel industry years anyhow. So we’re optimistic two or researchEditor: firm PKF Consulting. three years out.”

ExEcutivE Jon Regardie citY“Given Editor: Richard Guzmán the success of L.A. Live already and Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites are stAFF writEr: Ryan Vaillancourt the [J.W.] Marriott there is a natural interboth Hilton brands. Homewood is an excoNtributiNG Editors: Kathryn Maese Los Angeles Downtown News est in morewritErs: hotel development coNtributiNG Jay Berman, Jim Downtown, Farber, Jeff Favre, tended stay hotel, catering to guests staying W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 Kristin Marc Porter Zasada five1264 but Friedrich, certainlyHoward someLeff, of Rod it’s Riggs, attributable to the nights or more, Baltin said. Hampton phone: 213-481-1448 • fax: 213-250-4617 Farmers Field,” he said.

Innweb: is considered a “focused service hotel,” Art dirEctor: Brian Allison DowntownNews.com AssistANt ArtWilliams, dirEctor: Yumi Kanegawa Williams/ Homer of Portland’s which means that it’s affordable, with modemail: realpeople@downtownnews.com ProductioN GrAPhics:isAlexis Rawlinsa $120 milDame & ANd Associates, planning ern facilities but not much meeting space.

PhotoGrAPhEr: Gary Leonard lion Marriott high-rise at Olympic Boulevard Bral is also afacebook: partner at Crestpoint Group, L.A. Downtown News and Francisco Inc., which developed the Los Angeles AccouNtiNG: AshleyStreet.

Schmidt Construction is slated to begin in March on the building that would Fashion Center,twitter: a 300,000-square-foot comAdvErtisiNG dirEctor: Steve Nakutin DowntownNews house both 180 Courtyard by Marriott rooms plex of wholesale fashion showrooms in the clAssiFiEd AdvErtisiNG MANAGEr: Catherine Holloway and a separate 197-room Inn. Fashion District.

AccouNt ExEcutivEs: Iedia Hess,Residence Catherine Holloway, The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read Brenda Stevens Meanwhile, IDS Real Estate Group, Contact Ryan Vaillancourt at newspaper for Downtown Los Angeles and is distributed every Monday throughout the offices and circulAtioN: Norma Rodas which has long sought to get the mixed-use ryan@downtownnews.com.

Hampton Inn/Homewood Suites Would Rise Near Convention Center

by Ryan VaillancouRt staff wRiteR

S

outh Park has emerged as Downtown’s prime new hotel area in the last few years, with the opening of the RitzMarriott tower, the transformation of a faded Holiday Inn into the boutique Luxe, and the April announcement of a new project with two Marriott brands in a single building.

Now, another big project could be coming.

Los Angeles Downtown News has learned that an Orange County developer is in the early stage of planning a Hampton Inn and Homewood Suites. It would rise at 1500 S. photo by Gary Leonard Figueroa St., across from the Convention Orange County’s T2 Development is in the early Center, on what is currently a surface park- stage of planning a 375-room hotel across the street from the Convention Center. The project at ing lot.

Los Angeles Downtown News Property owner Broadway Chinatown, 1500 S. Figueroa St. could be up to eight stories 1264 W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 LLC. has tentatively partnered with T2 tall. phone: 213-481-1448 • fax: 213-250-4617 Development, a division of the Tarsadia web: DowntownNews.com • email: realpeople@downtownnews.com Hotel Group, to develop a mid-rise project LeBon said the firm is now in the due dilifacebook: twitter: with upL.A. to 375 rooms.

Fraydoon Bral, aDowntownNews part- gence phase, analyzing the economics of the Downtown News ner in Broadway Chinatown, LLC., said the project. Early plans call for a building of up company’s partnership with T2 is prelimi- to eight floors.

Editor & PublishEr: Sue Laris nary.

The two firms do not currently have a “We still haven’t made it through the ‘go/ GENErAl MANAGEr: Dawn Eastin contract. no-go’ phase,” he said.

ExEcutivE Editor: Jon Regardie As T2 works on a plan for the site, the The project would be the latest in the citY Editor: Richard Guzmán firm recently a private request for pro- rush of Downtown hotel deals. In late 2009, stAFF writEr:issued Ryan Vaillancourt posals in search of anKathryn architect Luxe Hotels looked to capitalize on the coNtributiNG Editors: Maeseto design a coNtributiNG writErs: Jay Berman, Jim Farber, Jeff Favre, building that would meet Hampton Inn and growing draw of L.A. Live, and spent $10 Kristin Friedrich, Howard Leff, Rod Riggs, Marc Porter Homewood Suites guidelines.

Proposals wereZasada million to turn the former Holiday Inn at ArtAug. dirEctor: Brianmultiple Allison bids were submitdue 16 and 1020 S. Figueroa St. into an upgraded 180AssistANt dirEctor: YumiGreg Kanegawa ted, said T2Art Vice President LeBon. room property. The $1 billion, 1,001-room

distributioN MANAGEr: Salvador Ingles distributioN AssistANts: Lorenzo Castillo, Gustavo Bonilla

residences of Downtown Los Angeles.

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ProductioN ANd GrAPhics: Alexis Rawlins

PhotoGrAPhEr: Gary Leonard AccouNtiNG: Ashley Schmidt

Editor & PublishEr: Sue Laris GENErAl MANAGEr: Dawn Eastin

AdvErtisiNG dirEctor: Steve Nakutin clAssiFiEd AdvErtisiNG MANAGEr: Catherine Holloway AccouNt ExEcutivEs: Iedia Hess, Catherine Holloway, Brenda Stevens

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AccouNtiNG: Ashley Schmidt AdvErtisiNG dirEctor: Steve Nakutin clAssiFiEd AdvErtisiNG MANAGEr: Catherine Holloway AccouNt ExEcutivEs: Iedia Hess, Catherine Holloway, Brenda Stevens circulAtioN: Norma Rodas distributioN MANAGEr: Salvador Ingles distributioN AssistANts: Lorenzo Castillo, Gustavo Bonilla The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read newspaper for Downtown Los Angeles and is distributed every Monday throughout the offices and residences of Downtown Los Angeles.

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HEALTH The Right Gear for You

by Chelle Cordero

Y

ou’ve made up your mind that, come fall, you’re going to get in shape. You’ll watch your diet, lose weight, tone up your muscles, get more active and join a gym.

But what happens when the gym you choose isn’t what you need? What would you do if you injured yourself? That would sort of defeat the purpose.

Those are questions that some well-intentioned people have had to face. Certified personal trainer Amanda Cosentino has advice for those about to begin an exercise program.

“Set both short- and long-term goals for

yourself, and write them down,” she suggests.

“When it is in writing, a person is likelier to stick to his or her goals. Also, think about how many times you can realistically get to the gym. If you can only work out twice a week but can commit to those days, you will be successful long term. When you force yourself to go to the gym every day, you risk not only an overuse injury but also a burnout. If you are unsure of how to begin an exercise program, talk to a personal trainer for advice.”

Alternative exercise programs are available depending on your needs. Lindsay Lopez, a

Stress on Kids’ Lungs

C

hildren’s lungs may suffer more damage from traffic-related pollution when they’re living in stress-filled households, according to new research by the USC Keck School of Medicine.

A study led by Talat Islam, an assistant professor in the division of environmental health in the department of preventive medicine at the Keck School, indicates for the first time that declines in lung function appear to be related to trafficrelated exposures at home and at school.

It also suggest that stress at home may be a factor. The research appears in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care.

“This is the first study demonstrating that growing up in a stressful household was associated with larger traffic pollution-induced lung deficits in healthy children compared to low stress households,” said Islam.

The effect on children’s lungs was more pronounced than exposure to cigarette smoking during pregnancy and secondhand smoke, Salam said.

The study found that as levels of traffic related pollution increased, lung function decreased among children who grew up in high stress households. For example, in high stress households, children had on average a 4.8% and 4.5%

lower lung volume and flow in the larger airways for each 22 ppb (parts per billion) increase in oxides of nitrogen (NOx). A similar effect was not seen in low stress households.

“Based on the emerging data we expected to see a modifying effect of stress.

However, we were surprised by the magnitude of effect,” said Islam. “Like air pollution, stress has been linked to both inflammation and oxidative damage at the cellular level, so this may explain the association. Further research is needed on biological pathways for a clearer explanation.”

Hispanic and Asian parents showed higher levels of perceived stress than white parents in the study.

Characteristics associated with low socioeconomic levels were also associated with high stress, such as income below $30,000 a year; low parental education; lack of health insurance; and lack of an air conditioner in the home. Exposures to traffic-related pollution varied widely within the study.

The research was conducted by administering a validated stress questionnaire, the Perceived Stress Scale, to the parents of nearly 1,400 participants of the USC Children’s Health Study in Southern California.

Article courtesy USC HSC Weekly.

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Read Monday’s News on Friday Night!

professional Pilates instructor, notes that the system created by Joe Pilates to treat injured soldiers during World War I is known for its rehabilitation abilities. There is a variety of gear, including a piece of equipment called the Cadillac.

“Pilates makes you strong and lean while balancing your body, increasing your flexibility and improving your posture,” she says.

“The Pilates method and equipment are perfect for all kinds of bodies. It’s a great workout for the very fit and perfect for the out-ofshape and injured client.”

Before joining a new facility, take a tour, ask questions of the managers and learn how to fit the equipment to your size. Ask whether there is a trial or a short-term option available to test it out. Many fitness centers will let you test-drive their services before asking you to make a full commitment.

Also ask about the staff. Are they certified, and how much supervision and guidance are provided?

Frank Nunez, co-owner of The Fitness Lair and a fitness professional for more than two decades, advises listening to the pitch to see what is emphasized. Pay close attention, he says.

“I always tell people that the best places will always focus on your results and not the process of working out,” he says. “Stay away from places that highlight their equipment and locker rooms and TVs at the expense of helping you focus on the goals you both want

and the ones you need.”

Getting a feel for the equipment and how it fits you is important. Cosentino notes that people who are taller or shorter than average might not to be able to adjust a machine correctly. Instead, they could use free weights.

“If you cannot fit comfortably into a machine, do not use it,” she instructs. “Instead, pick an alternative way of doing that particular exercise. Most new machines adjust to fit most people.”

She advises that cable towers can be adjusted in height and resistance, and that people can use them whether standing, seated on a bench or placed on a stability ball.

She reminds gym users to speak to the owner if they are not comfortable with the equipment on hand.

“If enough clients suggest the need for a new or different piece of equipment, the owner will usually get it into the facility,” she says.

Be sure to attend orientation sessions at the gym of your choice and follow directions.

Orientation sessions often are done in group settings and answer questions people may have about beginning a weight training program. Working with a personal trainer will help customize your workout for your needs and abilities. A personal trainer considers past injuries, fitness level, goals, strength and availability to do the work needed to reach your potential.

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RESTAURANTS Restaurant Buzz

A Hot Chef Is Back, a Café Is Gone, and More Food News

by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR

R

epublique Rises: The chef Walter Manzke earned raves, and put French restaurant Church & State on the map, during the year he spent at the Arts District establishment. He departed in February 2010, leaving the foodies of the city salivating and speculating over where and when he’d resurface. Now, we know: Manzke is planning Republique, a restaurant and bakery, slated to open in an 8,000-squarefoot brick building at the Factory Place Arts Complex in an isolated corner of the Arts District by the spring of 2012. “I’m very excited to come back Downtown,” Manzke told Restaurant Buzz. “I love Downtown, I love the feel of it and it’s one of my favorite places to be.” He is currently working as a consultant in Chicago, but said that when he returns many will see similarities between Republique and his former kitchen. The 140-seat destination on Sixth Street will serve French-inspired food with some Italian and Spanish flavors. Manzke said the casual feel and price points will be similar to Church & State. The bakery, to be called Factory Baking Company, will serve coffee, pastries and sandwiches.

Hot Kitchens: New restaurants in Downtown have been as plentiful as an all-you-can-eat buffet, with about two dozen opening in 2011.

Actually, make that about two dozen and two, thank to a couple additions from restaurant veterans. Michael Cardenas, the man behind the celebrated Lazy Ox Canteen in Little

Tokyo and its next-door neighbor Aburiya Toranoko, just launched Fat Spoon, a curry and pasta restaurant. Most of the dishes at the First Street establishment are priced at around $10. Choices include the pork cutlet curry and Bolognese with Kobe beef. Meanwhile, over in the Financial District, Caffe Primo opened last week. Located on the ground floor of the Pegasus apartments, the restaurant is the second Caffe Primo from Tony Rivera and his Primo Hospitality Group (the other one is on Sunset Boulevard). The Downtown spot will offer the original Caffe Primo menu consisting of paninis, pastries, coffee and breakfast.

Fat Spoon is at 329 E. First St., (213) 6217890. Caffe Primo is at 612 S. Flower St., (213) 895-5012 or iloveprimo.com.

photo courtesy of Demitasse

Demitasse pairs chocolate and coffee in a new Little Tokyo Location

Sweet Coffee: Little Tokyo is not just burning up with new restaurants — there’s also a new place to get a cup of joe and some fancy sweets. Demitasse, a coffee and chocolate bar, opened on San Pedro Street this month.

Its offerings include chocolate truffles prepared by Compartes, a Brentwood based chocolatier. The beans hail from Equator Coffees, a San Rafael-based roaster. But don’t expect to take a sip and follow it with a bite — they want you to replace your sugar with a bit of chocolate by placing the sweet in your mouth as you drink. The self-proclaimed coffee snobs also offer teas and pastries.

At 135 S. San Pedro St., (213) 613-9300 or cafedemitasse.com.

Aloha Blaine: The Downtown outpost of Roy’s Hawaiian Fusion has a new top toque. photo by Richard Guzmán

Fat Spoon, a curry and pasta restaurant, opened on First Street in Little Tokyo this month. It is the newest venture from Michael Cardenas, the man behind Lazy Ox Canteen and Aburiya Toranoko.

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The restaurant announced last week that Le Cordon Bleu-trained chef Blaine Villasin is the newest chef/partner in the chain. The 34-year-old Hawaii native started working in the Roy’s empire in 2003 as a sushi line chef. One new dish he has added to the menu is a crispy slow braised pork shank.

In the future he will offer cooking classes and seasonal wine dinners.

At 800 S. Figueroa St., (213) 488-4994 or roysrestaurant.com.

Lost Café: The hidden gem that opened as Lost Souls in 2006 and later became Harlem Place Café is no more. Although the website last week still touted the usual Monday night open mic event and the Saturday brunch, a pair of signs on the locked doors say they are closed, and

the phone has been disconnected. Sorry to see you go, HPC. While we’re talking about closings, don’t panic if you pass

by Pasta Primavera and see the windows and doors covered in white paper and the statue of the fat happy chef is gone. According to a restaurant employee, the Italian eatery at 611 W. Seventh St., which has been Downtown since 1989, is simply remodeling and will reopen in two weeks. Restaurant Buzz will stay on the case and check back to see if they spring back. See, because primavera means spring, so that’s why it’s funny.

Ugh, maybe Restaurant Buzz needs to remodel some jokes.

Got any juicy food news? Contact Restaurant Buzz at richard@downtownnews.com.

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Downtown News 13

DowntownNews.com

CALENDAR

The ABCs of the FYF Fest

photos courtesy of the artists

How to Navigate the 40 Bands and 12 Hours of a Downtown Music Festival

The FYF Fest will fill Los Angeles State Historic Park on Sept. 3. Highlights include (clockwise from top) the danceable Yacht, the throwback groove of Cults, L.A. noise hounds No Age, the return of the Descendents and dream pop act Twin Sister.

by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR

T

he normally quiet Los Angeles State Historic Park will be anything but on Saturday, Sept. 3.

That’s the day when the eighth annual FYF Fest lands in the attraction on the edge of Chinatown, bringing about 20,000 music fans who will watch nearly 40 bands over 12 hours.

Some are skeptical. Last year’s happening had notoriously long lines, a dusty field and water shortages. Park officials said changes including improvements to allow for faster entrance, expanded grass areas, more shade and toilets will change the feel of the event.

Also helping smooth things will be veteran concert promoter Goldenvoice. Other highlights of the festival, which runs from noon to midnight, will include a comedy tent and food trucks.

Catching every band is nearly impossible. To make things easier, Los Angeles Downtown News has a few recommendations broken down into categories. Exact

set times will not be announced until a few days before the show.

The Veterans Descendants: The L.A. based Descendants formed in 1978 and quickly grew popular in the local punk scene.

However, they were not hardcore thrashers, and melded rapid-fire riffs with a somewhat poppier sound and humorous lyrics in songs like “I’m Not a Loser,” and “My Dad Sucks.” The 1982 LP Milo Goes to College (named for singer Milo Auckerman as he went off to college) was a classic of its time. The band broke up in the late ’80s and stayed that way for the better part of two decades.

Now, they’re back, even if teen angst never went away.

Dead Milkmen: Were they punks? Were they comedians? Were they punk comedians? Philadelphia’s Dead Milkmen formed in 1983, and their debut album, Big Lizard in My Backyard, was one of the most curious discs of the era, with songs about a bitchin’ Camaro (called, uh, “Bitchin Camaro”) and a church dedicated to actor Charles Nelson Riley (“Serrated Edge”). Against

all odds they managed to have a hit, 1988’s “Punk Rock Girl,” though it was sung by guitarist Joe Jack Talcum, and in the video all singer Rodney Anonymous did was wander around and read a newspaper. They broke up in the ’90s, and now, like the Descendents, are back, even if weirdo teen humor never went away.

Off!: The four-piece group isn’t a veteran of the punk scene — they just formed a few years ago. But the hardcore sounds comes courtesy of Keith Morris, who is not only the former Black Flag and Circle Jerks lead singer, but also co-founder of the FYF Fest. The band also boasts Steve McDonald from wonderful pop punks Redd Kross.

Reunited Death From Above 1979: This Canadian indie rock duo eschews the guitar and rocks the synth, bass and drum to create loud, dancey punk-infused tunes. They released their first album, You’re a Woman, I’m a Machine, in 2004 and broke up two years later. After reuniting in see FYF Fest, page 20

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August 29, 2011

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STREET TALK

by Richard Guzmán and Gary Leonard asked at Olvera Street

What would you give the city for its 230th birthday?

Maybe more free education so that more poor people can have education, which I think is the key to a better life and future.

Better schools, better education for teachers too, so they can teach better.

I would give it a dedication of some sort, a monument or something. Maybe a statue of someone famous from the city.

—Amanda Sullivan, biology student

To get out of its financial woes. Plain and simple.

—Martin Neubert, political science student

—Jerry Mandinach, attorney

I would get the city a better job market. We need more jobs. It’s hard out there. It’s been really tough finding something.

I would give it the gift of dance. I would dance for the city.

A good environment, a greener environment.

Less pollution and more green.

—Leticia Leal, dance student

—Angeles Sanchez, museum guide

—George Ochoa, unemployed

Happy Birthday L.A. O

n Saturday, Sept. 3, Los Angeles will celebrate its birthday the way it always does — with a nine-mile hike.

Los Pobladores, a group made up of the ancestors of the city’s 11 founding families, will re-trace the walk from Mission San Gabriel to what is now Olvera Street that the families and four soldiers undertook on Sept. 4, 1781. The trek begins at 6 a.m. at Mission San Gabriel and arrives Downtown at about 9:30 a.m. The event

is intended to allow Angelenos to reenact the historic journey.

The following day, city leaders will meet at Union Station at 9:45 a.m. for a procession to the plaza at Olvera Street where there will be a cake cutting ceremony and birthday celebration from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Everyone is invited. No gifts, please.

For more information go to lospobladores.org.

—Richard Guzman

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August 29, 2011

Downtown News 15

DowntownNews.com

LISTINGS EVENTS

Miss List

Bang the Dru DruMs, CheCk Out the reD PLanet anD MOre

by Dan Johnson, listings eDitor | calendar@downtownnews.com

L

Friday, sepTember 2 Korean Cultural Celebration Levitt Pavilion, MacArthur Park, 2230 W. Sixth St., (213) 384-5701 or levittla.org.

7 p.m.: “Kollaboration” is a presentation of art and performance designed to bring creative youth together on stage. saTurday, sepTember 3 Drums Downtown: Tones & Drums Music Center Plaza, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 9723660 or musiccenter.org.

10-11:30 a.m.: Get wild in this exploration of pitch and percussion. Drums are provided for all interested percussionists to engage the world of tone and timbre through the skins. All levels from novice to expert are welcome.

USC vs. Minnesota Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, 3939 S. Figueroa St., (213) 748-6136 or usc.edu.

12:30 p.m.: It may not be at Farmers Field quite yet, but football returns to Downtown. The Trojans’ home opener against the Golden Gophers marks the beginning of the college football season and the first game of the newly minted PAC-12 played at the storied Coliseum.

2

On any given Saturday morning, most Downtown residents would give anything to avoid the loud percussive sounds that interrupt their weekend slumber.

Against all logic, on Saturday, Sept. 3, the hearty amongst us will gather in the Music Center Plaza for the Active Arts program’s Drum Downtown. Pound some skins and discover the inherent pitch of each instrument and how many drums together form a spectrum of notes and sounds.

Drums are provided; just bring your smiling face and maybe some tape for your fingers.

Everything kicks off at 10 a.m. At 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-7211 or musiccenter.org.

sunday, sepTember 4 The Los Angeles Times Food & Wine: Food Noir Orpheum Theatre, 842 S. Broadway, (877) 677-4386 or laorpheum.com.

8 p.m.: Prepare for an onslaught of food and cinematic street gazing. Some of L.A.’s most renowned dining locations and culinary wizards will be serving up dishes in the theme of noir. They’re closing down Broadway between Eighth and Ninth streets so foodies and distinguished winos can shuffle between delicacies.

Los Angeles in the 1930s Book Reading Metropolis Books, 440 S. Main St., (213) 612-0174 or metropolisbooksla.com.

Noon: Metropolis Books hosts David Kipen, author of the new introduction to the republished Los Angeles in the 1930s: The WPA Guide to the City of Angels, as he reads selected passages from the book. Part history, party walking tour, part nostalgic architectural review, the book presents a slice of Downtown life that is both long gone and well due for revival.

I

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.

photo by Gary Leonard

ROCK, POP & JAZZ Bootleg Bar 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org.

Aug. 29, 9 p.m.: Spacey down home rock from Strange Markings, with Red River, Tall Tales and the Silver Lining along for the ride.

Aug. 30, 8:30 p.m.: When Jon Foreman of Switchfoot and Sean Watkins of Nickel Creek got together and made a musical baby, it sounded strangely unlike either of their previous projects. Scorning the sounds that bore them fame, they combined for a gentle, low-key rock outing called Fiction Family. They’ll be joined by Pawn Shop Kings and The Howls.

photo by Iain Macmillan/©Yoko Ono

ast year, the L.A. City Council recognized Jenni Rivera’s commitment to philanthropy by naming Aug. 6 “Jenni Rivera Day.” How did the banda singer celebrate? With two sold-out shows at the Nokia Theater. The Long Beach native has been kicking out nortena classics since her first album Chacalosa gained critical acclaim in 1996, so what else would you expect? On Saturday, Sept. 3, Rivera brings her brand of local flavored topical tunes to a bigger venue than ever — Staples Center. It is one of only two dates in California Rivera has scheduled for this year. At 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7340 or lalive.com.

photo courtesy of Music Center

f you live or work Downtown, then you have no choice but to engage the city’s history. That gets easier to do on Sunday, Sept. 4, when Metropolis Books hosts a reading and presentation of the newly re-released Los Angeles in the 1930s, The WPA Guide to the City of Angels. Few books renew a sense of the city’s history like this narrative and architectural study compiled by the Works Progress Administration during the Depression. Readers will spot familiar landmarks amidst a sea of long-gone buildings in a city that has drastically re-imagined itself. Author David Kipen, who penned the introduction to the new edition of the book, will be on hand for a reading. At 440 S. Main St., (213) 612-0174 or metropolisbooksla.com.

4

3

Last year marked the 70th anniversary of John Lennon’s birth and also the 30th year since his death. Downtown’s Grammy Museum celebrated his tooshort tenure on this planet with a stunning collection of articles from Lennon’s life. This is the final week, however, to catch the exhibit John Lennon, Songwriter.

The show includes an assortment of pieces, among them some of Lennon’s guitars and his famed wire-rimmed glasses. From rare, early footage of Lennon to telling Beatles photographs, the exhibit encompasses the life and long-reaching influence of the man himself.

The show closes Sept. 5. At 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org.

e v

Too many science fiction films portray our celestial neighbor, Mars, as a breeding ground for hyper aggressive monsters. But Geoff Marslett shows in his new film that the red planet is also home to man’s most dangerous opponent: love. On Thursday, Sept. 1, at 7 p.m., the Downtown Independent plays host to Marslett’s Mars. This charming piece of rotoscope animation follows a team of delightfully relatable humans on a fool’s errand to our closest planet. A bit of genre busting replaces pompous astro-ego with subtle humor and an everyman’s space story. The film is followed by a Q&A with Marslett. For night owls, there is also a screening on Sept. 2 at 1 a.m. It’s the kick-off event of the theater’s new monthly series Film Finds. At 251 S. Main St., (213) 617-1033 or downtownindependent.com.

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Thursday, sepTember 1 Critical Campout MOCA Grand Avenue, 250 S. Grand Ave. or moca.org.

7 p.m.: The Urban Rangers close out their stint as guest artists at the Museum of Contemporary Art. For this installment, they host an unorthodox campfire and discussion in MOCA’s plaza atop Bunker Hill. Chat about Downtown enclaves and the evolution of public art. Stare up at where the stars would normally be. Spots are limited.

The Don’t

photo courtesy of AEG Live

SPONSORED LISTINGS Friday Night Flicks Pershing Square, 532 S. Olive St., laparks.org/ pershingsquare Sept. 2: The weekly outdoor film series presents E.T. Elliot is a normal boy, until one day, when he meets a little lost alien. Elliot decides to keep the alien, which he names E.T.

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

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At your door within 15 minutes!

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August 29, 2011

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

TheLoftExpertGroup.com Downtown since 2002

Bill Cooper

213.598.7555 Vacation Homes ADVERTISE YOUR Vacation Property in 240 California newspapers for one low cost of $550. Your 25 word classified ad reaches over 6 million+ Californians. Free brochure call Elizabeth (916)288-6019. (CalSCAN)

Apartments/Unfurnished Call for specials @ the Medici. Penthouse 1 & 2 bdrm apts. Granite kitchens, washer/ dryers, business center, 2 pools, spa! Visit TheMedici.com for a full list of amenities. Call 888886-3731.

Call for specials @ The Visconti. Free parking, free tanning, free wi-fi + biz center avail.

Cardio Salon, pool, Spa, steamroom, sauna. Call us today. 866742-0992.

ECHO PARK 1 bdrm. 1 bath. Refrigerator stove and A/C. Starting at $850 a month. 213-250-4810 leave message.

“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.”

BRAND NEW Luxury Apartments Homes. Orsini III. Now open for immediate Occupancy.

Call for Specials. Never Lived in, Free Parking, Karaoke Room, Free Wi-Fi, Indoor Basketball, Uncomparable Amenity Package. Call today to schedule a tour - 866-479-1764.

REAL ARTIST LOFTS High ceilings, hardwood/concrete floors, kitchen, fireplace, pool/spa, gated parking, laundry, sorry no dogs. Open House Sundays 12-3pm. Leasing office @1250 Long Beach Ave. & 14th St. 213629-5539

SENIOR APARTMENTS 62 + Studio $754 1 Bedroom $864 Balcony, Full Kitchen, A/C, Clubhouse, BBQ, Resource room, Laundry, SEC 8 O.K. Visit GSLSANLUCAS.com 213-6232010.

SPECTACULAR LOFT 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms (1100 SF).

Market Lofts Downtown. Atop Ralphs Fresh Fare. State of the Art Amenities. $2400/Month.

323-828-3953 or southparklofts@yahoo.com.

Roommate Wanted FIND SENIOR Housing! Affordable Living for the Aging can help you find housing. Home sharing is also available. Call today! 323650-7988

SERVICES

Old Bank District The original Live/Work Lofts from $1,100 Cafes, Bars, Shops, Galleries, Parking adjacent. Pets no charge

ABOGADO DE IMMIGRACION! Family, Criminal, P.I. for more than 20 yrs!

Child Support / Custody Necesita Permiso de trabajo? Tagalog / Español / Korean

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

CONCEPTO’S CLEANING Crew. Professional, experienced, cleans apartments, homes, offices and restaurants.

Call for a quote. 323-459-3067 or 818-409-9183.

Education ALLIED HEALTH Career training - Attend college 100% online. Job placement assistance.

Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified.

Call 800-481-9409. www.CenturaOnline.com (Cal-SCAN) HIGH SCHOOL Diploma! Graduate in 4 weeks! Free Brochure.

Call Now! 1-866-562-3650 ext.

60 www.SouthEasternHS.com (Cal-SCAN)

ADVERTISE 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.

(Cal-SCAN)

OFFICE SPACE Cool turn-of-the-century Victorian office space. Parking for 10 cars, kitchen, two bathrooms, seven offices. Close to USC. $4200p/m Contact robert@thecipgroup.net or call 213-399-9001.

ATTEND COLLEGE Online from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance.

Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified.

Call 888-210-5162 www.Centura.us.com (Cal-SCAN) SWIM LESSONS from Brian Nassau. 16 years experience.

Children and adults. Learn in a positive environment. Call Brian at 818-307-9153.

Health COSMETIC SURGERY Looking to have a cosmetic surgery or dental service in a low price? For a free consultation email us to: oliviamedicals@aol.com Continued on next page

The Downtown Renaissance Collection

ADVERTISE YOUR Truck Driver Jobs in 240 California newspapers for one low cost of $550.

Your 25 word classified ad reaches over 6 million+ Californians.

Free brochure call Elizabeth (916)288-6019. (Cal-SCAN)

Be Inspired...

Best Downtown Locations!

Cambodian Fund Raising Banquet September 10, 2011 at 6pm

at Diggs Restaurant, 8052 Adams Ave., Huntington Beach, CA

$30 per person

Tickets can be purchased at

www.globaltraveloutreach.com or Diggs Restaurant Please RSVP at 951-501-9982 or 626-344-9607

Orsini

Join Us for a Fabulous Dinner Buffet with Entree’s Including:

Cajun Chicken Linguini, Saki Salmon Pesto Penne, Dekine Flank Steak, Deep Pow (chicken), Honey Sesame Soba, Hawaiian BBQ Pork, Veggie Delight & More. Non alcoholic beverages included.

550 NORTH FIGUEROA ST.

877-231-9362

WWW.THEORSINI.COM

Sposored by Jennifer Edlund, Author of “Forever Blue”.

Jennifer will be available for book signing at this event. www.jenniferedlund.com

877-239-8256

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. Starting Jan. 1, 2011

Rosslyn Hotel $600 mo. to mo. $580 on 6 mo. Lease No Application Fee! - Sec. Dep. $175 Free Utilities, 24 hr. laundry, Around the Clock Courtesy Patrol

112 W 5th St., Los Angeles, CA 90013 213.908.9006 ask for Courtney • Rosslyn@SROhousing.com

Monthly from $595 utilities paid.

(213) 627-1151

the loft expert! group

WWW.THEMEDICI.COM

TM

Elegant World Class Resort Apartment Homes

Piero 616 ST. PAUL AVE.

877-235-6012

WWW.THEPIERO.COM

Visconti 1221 WEST THIRD ST.

866-690-2888

WWW.THEVISCONTI.COM

FREE Rent Specials On Select Floor Plans • Free Resident/Guest Parking in Gated Garage • Private Library, Business Center & Conference Rooms • Free Wi-Fi & DSL Computer Use • Resident Karaoke Lounge • Directors Screening Room • Lavish Fountains & Sculptures • On-Site Private Resident Park with Sand Volleyball, BBQ’s and Jogging Track • Night Light Tennis Courts • Indoor Basketball

(2 blocks west of San Pedro St.)

Studio 280 sqft.

Full Bathroom Apartment

Medici 725 SOUTH BIXEL ST.

Together we can impact one child at a time.

madison hotel

Fully furnished with TV, telephone, microwave, refrigerator.

Full bathroom.

Excellent location.

Downtown LA. Weekly maid service.

Attorneys

Cleaning

Business Services

Loft/Unfurnished

Call 213.253.4777 LAloft.com

FOR RENT

All submissions are subject to federal and California fair housing laws, which make it illegal to indicate in any advertisement any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, familial status, source of income or physical or mental disability.

We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

• Brunswick Four-Lane Virtual Bowling • Full Swing Virtual Golf • 3100 Square Foot Cybex Fitness Facility • Free Tanning Rooms • Massage Room, Sauna & Steam Room • Rooftop Pools with Dressing Rooms • Concierge Service • 24-Hour Doorman • 24/7 On-Site Management • Magnificent City Views *Amenities vary among communities

Downtown since 2002

Voted Best Downtown Residential Real Estate Agent

Version 1

Call us today!

Bill Cooper • 213.598.7555 • TheLoftExpertGroup.com

Furnished single unit with kitchenette, bathroom.

Excellent location.

Downtown LA. Weekly rate $275 inc.

Monthly from $550 utilities paid.

(213) 612-0348

Client: Publication: Size/Color:

Elevate Your Lifestyle @ PE Lofts Today!

G.H. Palmer Associates LADT News ■ 24 Hr. State of the Art Fitness Center 4.3125” x 8” 4C ■ Covered On-Site Parking ■ Heated Pool and Spa

■ Rooftop Lounge with Cabanas,

Fireplace and BBQs Design by: apluscreative@yahoo.com

Ph: 323.474.4668

(866) 561-0275 • PELOFTS.COM • 610 S. Main, Downtown LA

18 Downtown News

August 29, 2011

Twitter/DowntownNews

Continued from previous page

Health VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg!! 40 Pills 4 Free for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement, Discreet Shipping. Only $2.70/ pill. Buy the Blue Pill Now! 1-888904-6658 (Cal-SCAN) Legal SOCIAL SECURITY Disability Benefits. You Win or Pay Us Nothing. Contact Disability Group, Inc. Today! BBB Accredited. Call For Your Free Book & Consultation.

877-490-6596.

(Cal-SCAN) Psychic

Psychic Readings

by Lydia Reader • Healer • Advisor Complimentary Readings

PSYCHIC READER Spiritual advisor. Tarot $20. Confidential text for one free question 323493-9494.

PSYCHOTHERAPY FAMILY PSYCHOTHERAPIST Weekends only. 601 W. 5th St. Licensed for 25 years.

Specialize in children and families. Individual’s, grief, chronic illness, trauma and hypnosis. Ted Siminoski 323-404-1701.

EMPLOYMENT Sales GUYS & GALS 18+. Travel the country while selling our Orange peel product. Training, Hotel & Transportation provided. Daily cash draws. Apply today leave tomorrow.

1-888-872-7577.

(Cal-SCAN)

Seasonal

Misc. Services

LOFT CURTAIN GALLERY Affordable custom drapery, fine vintage furniture & reupholstery.

www.LoftCurtainGallery.com

SWEETWATER seeks Field Shop Technicians: Compile equipment loads & perform inventory. Must lift/push/pull 50lbs & possess organization & communication skills. Van Nuys area. santhony@nepinc.com

(213) 489-3179

CUSTOMER SERVICE Representative. Must have good computer skills. Speak fluent English. No job experience needed.

Send a resume to: RL90000@ gmail.com.

Drivers A FEW PRO Drivers Needed.

Top Pay & 401K. 2 Months CDL Class A Driving Experience.

1-877-258-8782. www.MeltonTruck.com (Cal-SCAN) DRIVERS - NO Experience - No Problem. 100% Paid CDL Training. Immediate Benefits. 20/10 program. Trainers Earn up to 49c per mile. CRST VAN EXPEDITED. 1-800-326-2778. www.

JoinCRST.com (Cal-SCAN)

Every Friday from 10am - 3pm

Specializing in reuniting love Figueroa Corridor (Dwtn LA) (323) 208-1393

DowntownNews.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!

AUTOS

Customer Service

________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________ ________________________________________________

PRE-OWNED

Downtown L.A. AUTO GROUP Porsche Volkswagen Audi Mercedes-Benz Nissan chevrolet cadillac

2007 MERCEDES ML350 3.5L, V6, Low miles, Rear Seat Ent., Navigation, Black/Black #5358C / A432886 $35,991 Call 888319-8762.

2007 NISSAN 350Z TOURING Certified, Carfax, 1 owner, multi-disc CD, leather, premium wheels, Black NI3822 / M552797 $20,499 call 888-838-5089 2007 NISSAN MAXIMA 3.5 Certified,3.5L V6, Only 27k Miles, Auto, ABS and much more!!

N111041-1/7C823560 $20,499 call 888-838-5089 2008 AUDI TT 2.0L, 4-Cyl Turbo, Only 21K Miles, 31 mpg highway, Gray/Blue ZA/9954 / 1044026 $27,993 Call 888-583-0981 2008 CHEVY TAHOE 4 DOOR 5.3L, V8, Low Miles, Dual Zone AC, Rear Split Bench #UC782/ R160804 $26,995 Call 888-8799608 2008 NISSAN ALTIMA 2.5S Carfax, 1 owner, only 48K miles, Auto, CD, White N120068-1 / C155663 call 888-838-5089 2008 PORSCHE BOXSTER CONV. Certified, 2.7L V6, Meteor Gray/Black, Only 25k Miles, Alloys, spoiler ZP1347/8U711448 $39,785 Call 888-685-5426.

2009 VW PASSAT KOMFORT 2.0L, 4-Cyl Turbo, Only 21K Miles, 31 mpg highway, Gray/ Blue V111147-1 / P001654 $19,890 Call 888-781-8102.

For a complete list of our pre-owned inventory, go to www.DTLAMOTORS.com

Autos Wanted DONATE YOUR CAR, truck or boat to Heritage for the Blind.

Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. 888-9026851. (Cal-SCAN) 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) 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, 1-888-4448217. (Cal-SCAN)

PETS/ANIMALS Adopt A Pet ADOPT (OR FOSTER) your forever friend from Bark Avenue Foundation. Beautiful, healthy puppies, dogs, cats and kittens available at Downtown’s largest private adoption facility. Call Dawn at 213-840-0153 or email Dawn@BarkAveLA.com or visit www.Bark Avenue Foundation. org.

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.

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ITEMS FOR SALE Furniture Murphy Fold Down wall bed, may deliver $200 OBO call 323-254-2530 Misc. Items DIRECTV SUMMER Special! 1 Year FREE Showtime! 3 months Free HBO/Starz/Cinemax! NFL Sunday Ticket Free - Choice Ultimate/ Premier - Pkgs from $29.99/mo. Call by 9/30/2011!

1-800-380-8939. (Cal-SCAN) Three Chihuahuas 8 weeks old tiger print adorable $200 call 213-884-3166 TRIPLEHEAD BULK candy stands, used vending, good condition, original owner $50/each.

Gary 323-708-6944

ANNOUNCEMENTS AUCTION ATTENTION AUCTIONEERS! California State Auctioneers Association 43rd Annual Convention, October 20-23, San Diego. Auction professionals and companies are invited to join us www.CAAuctioneers.org Call 626-59-IM-BID (626-594-6243).

(Cal-SCAN) Volunteer Opportunities 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.

August 29, 2011

Downtown News 19

DowntownNews.com

LEGAL PUBLIC NOTICE County of Los AngeLes DepArtment of the treAsurer AnD tAx CoLLeCtor notice of Divided publication Pursuant to Sections 3702, 3381, and 3382, Revenue and Taxation Code, the Notice of Sale of Tax Defaulted Property Subject to the Power of Sale in and for the County of Los Angeles, State of California has been divided and distributed to various newspapers of general circulation published in said County for publication of a portion thereof, in each of the said newspapers. public Auction notice (r&tC 3702) of sale of taxDefaulted property subject to the power of sale (sale no. 2011A) Whereas, on July 5, 2011, I, MARK J. SALADINO, Treasurer and Tax Collector was directed by the Board of Supervisors of Los Angeles County, State of California to sell at public auction certain tax-defaulted properties which are Subject to the Power of Sale. Public notice is hereby given that unless said properties are redeemed prior thereto, I will, on October 17 and 18, 2011, at the hour of 9:00 a.m. at the Fairplex Los Angeles County Fairgrounds, 1101 W. McKinley

Avenue, Building 8, Pomona, California, offer for sale and sell said properties at public auction to the highest bidder for cash or cashier’s check in lawful money of the United States for not less than the minimum bid. If no bids are received on a parcel, it will be re-offered at the end of the auction at a reduced minimum price.

The minimum bid for each parcel is the total amount necessary to redeem, plus costs, as required

by Section 3698.5 of the Revenue and Taxation Code Prospective bidders should obtain detailed information of this sale from the County Treasurer and Tax Collector. Pre-registration and a $5,000 deposit in the form of cash, cashier’s check or bank issued money order is required at the time of registration.

No personal checks, two-party checks or business checks will be accepted for registration.

Registration will be from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., starting Tuesday, September 6, 2011, at the Treasurer and Tax Collector’s Office located at 225 North Hill Street, Room 130, Los Angeles, California, and will end on Friday, September 30, 2011, at 5:00 p.m.

If the property is sold, parties of interest, as defined by Section 4675 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, have a right to file a claim with the County for any proceeds from the sale, which are in excess of the liens and costs required to be paid from the proceeds. If excess proceeds result from the sale, notice will be given to parties of interest,

pursuant to law.

All information concerning redemption, provided the right to redeem has not previously been terminated, will upon request be furnished by MARK J. SALADINO, Treasurer and Tax Collector.

If redemption of the property is not made according to the law before 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 14, 2011, which is the last business day prior to the first day of auction, the right of redemption will cease.

The Assessor’s Identification Number (AIN) in this publication refers to the Assessor’s Map Book, the Map Page, and the individual Parcel Number on the Map Page. If a change in the Assessor’s Identification Number occurred, both prior and current Assessor’s Identification Numbers are shown. An explanation of the parcel numbering system and the maps referred to are available from the Office of the Assessor located at 500 West Temple Street, Room 225, Los Angeles, California 90012.

A list explaining the abbreviations used in this publication is on file

in the Office of the Treasurer and Tax Collector, 225 North Hill Street, Room 130, Los Angeles, California 90012, or telephone 1(213) 974-2045.

I certify under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed at Los Angeles, California, on August 8, 2011.

MARK J. SALADINO Los Angeles County Treasurer and Tax Collector State of California The real property that is subject to this notice is situated in the County of Los Angeles, State of California, and is described as follows: PUBLIC AUCTION NOTICE OF SALE OF TAX-DEFAULTED PROPERTY SUBJECT TO THE POWER OF SALE(SALE NO. 2011A) 2852 AIN 5540-028-003 KAZAZIAN,AIKAZ AND TAKOUHI TRS KAZAZIAN TRUST LOCATION COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES $19,896.00 Pub. 8/29, 9/05, 9/12/2011

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$12,499 $17,999 Certified, Silver, Alloys, CD, Full Power, Low Miles and much more. N111297-1/7C522629 2008 Infiniti QX56 4 Door .............................................. $31,999 2WD, 5.6L, V8, Bose, Navigation, Leather, Sunroof, DVD. N110327-1 / 8N912222 2006 Nissan Altima 4 Door .............................................

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2007 Nissan Xterra ..........................................................

VOLKSWAGEN OF DOWNTOWN L.A.

2008 VW BEETLE

$1,400’s/Mo.

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$17,568 2009 VW Jetta SE ............................................................. $17,993 Certified, Black, Black, 5cyl, PZEV, Only 17k miles, Tiptronic. #ZV1341 / 9M015155 2009 VW Jetta Wolfsburg ............................................... $18,498 Certified, 16 Valve GDI-DOHC Turbo, Only 29k miles. #9M048090

2008 Volkswagen Passat ................................................

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2008 AUDI TT COUPE ZA9997 / 81040276

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$35,899 2008 Audi Q7 Quattro .................................................... $39,769 Certified, Navigation, Blk/Blk, 3.6L V6, Only 31k miles. #ZA10004 / 8D051016 2011 Audi Q5 3.2 Quattro .............................................. $50,890 Only 6500 miles, Gray/Brown, Moonroof, 3.2L V6. #ZA10031 / BA053233 2011 Audi A4 Sedan ........................................................

Turbo, Blk/Blk, Low miles, ABS, Leather, Alloys. #ZA10027 / BN032978

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Children’s Performing Group

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AUDI OF DOWNTOWN L.A.

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$12,499 888-838-5089

2009 MERCEDES C300 SPORT

111475-1 / R054493

$27,991 888-319-8762

Certified, Low Miles, Palladium Silver, AMG Wheels

2007 Mercedes CLK350 Cabriolet .................................

$31,991 $35,991 3.5L, V6, Low miles, Rear Seat Ent., Navigation, Black/Black. 5203C/A432886 2008 Mercedes S550V ..................................................... $54,991 5.5L, V8, AMG Sport Package, Parktronic, Grey/Black. 5066C/A156099 3.5L, V6, Heated Front Seats, Ipod Integration, Navigation, Silver/Black. 5160/F223491

2008 Mercedes ML350 ....................................................

FELIX CHEVROLET

2010 CHEVY CAMARO SS

$29,995 888-879-9608

UC832 / 9195844

6.2L, V8, Gray/Gray, Only 9500 miles, Alloys, CD

2010 Chevy Cobalt 4 Door ..............................................

$13,995 2008 Chevy Impala LT ..................................................... $14,765 3.5L, V6, White/Tan, Low miles, CD and more. #UC850R / 9253081 2011 Chevy Mailbu LT ..................................................... $18,995 16 valve-6 Spd auto, Low miles, 33 mpg, CD, AC. #UC873R / F123276 White/Gray, 37 mpg, AC, CD, Full Power. #UC808R / A7103397

PORSCHE OF DOWNTOWN L.A.

2008 PORSCHE CAYMAN S

8U781971

$45,898 888-685-5426

Certified, White/Black, Only 14k miles one owner, Excellent Condition

2010 Porsche Cayman .....................................................

$49,998 $73,898 Certified, Blk/Blk, Navigation, Bose, Only 24K miles. #ALA60431 2009 Porsche Cayenne Turbo ........................................ $74,898 Certified, Twin Turbo, Blk/Blk, Only 17k miles, 32V-V8. #ZP1370 / A82999 Certified, Only 3000 miles, Like New, White/Black. #ZP1385 / U760197

2010 Porsche Cayenne GTS ............................................

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• Conflict at home or with friends?

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20 Downtown News

August 29, 2011

Twitter/DowntownNews

FYF Fest Continued from page 13 2011 they’ve been touring with appearances at SXSW in Austin, Coachella and Lollapalooza.

Guided by Voices: Founded in Dayton, Ohio, in 1983, and propelled by their schoolteacher frontman Robert Pollard, Guided by Voices were at the head of the lo-fi indie rock scene until they split in 2004. They pumped dozens of songs onto each record, and Spin magazine ranked the 1994 album Bee Thousand as the 26th best record of the past 25 years.

The guys couldn’t stay apart, and are kicking out the old jams. Their relatively recent show at the Wiltern Theatre reminded everyone how great rock was once hair metal was kicked to the curb.

Dance Yacht: Sail along with the electronic

and experimental sounds of Yacht, a duo created by electronic musician and multimedia artist Jonathan Bechtolt and vocalist Claire Evans. In addition to dancing, expect the visual treat of Power Point presentations. Seriously!

Bechtolt is known to use the tool to pair images with music.

Simian Mobile Disco: Originally formed as a DJ duo, UK artists Jas Shaw and James Ford will bust out their electronic-techno dance. Expect lots of thump and catchy hooks. Fortunately, the glow sticks era has passed.

New Buzz Bands Cults: The New York duo of Madeline Follin (vocals) and Brian Oblivion (guitar and vocals) is generating acclaim with their refurbished nostalgia and upgraded ’60s sound. Indie music website Pitchfork lauded their single “Go Outside” for its “appealingly lazy bassline, and joyous sing-along vocals.”

Twin Sister: The Long Island band’s

music has been called indie pop, dream pop and even a bit psychedelic. Their 2008 debut Vampires With Dreaming Kids has earned high praise across the board. The hypnotic sound has been compared to Galaxy 500 and even Fleetwood Mac. Downtown Connected No Age: The L.A. based noise duo has literally made their mark in Downtown — their name is blasted across the Main Street exterior of all-age music venue The Smell. The two-man act has done well from its humble beginnings, recording for Sub Pop, being featured in The New Yorker and appearing on MTV and on Craig Ferguson’s latenight show.

The FYF Fest is Saturday, Sept. 3, noon to midnight at Los Angeles State Historic Park, 1245 N. Spring St. Tickets at fyffest. com.

Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.

Downtown, it’s not just big business anymore!

Grand Tower 255 south Grand avenue Leasing Information 213 229 9777

Promenade Towers 123 south Figueroa street Leasing Information 213 617 3777

Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Concierge ~ Pool / Spa / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Gas BBQ Grills ~ Recreation Room

Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Pool / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Covered Parking

Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove, Microwave & Dishwasher (most units) ~ Central Air Conditioning & Heating ~ Balconies (most units)

On-site: ~ Dry Cleaners / Dental Office / Restaurants

Now For Call n Specials Move-I

8 7 7 - 2 65 - 714 6

museum Tower 225 south olive street Leasing Information 213 626 1500

Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove & Dishwasher ~ Central Air & Heating ~ Solariums and/or Balconies

On Site: ~ Convenience Store / Coffee House / Yogurt Shop / Beauty Salon

Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Concierge ~ Pool / Spa / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Gas BBQ Grills ~ Recreation Room

Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove, Microwave & Dish washer (most units) ~ Central Air & Heating ~ Balconies (most units)

It’s our business to make you comfortable... at home, downtown. Corporate and long term residency is accommodated in high style at the Towers Apartments. Contemporary singles, studio, one bedroom and two bedroom apartment homes provide fortunate residents with a courteous full service lobby attendant, heated pool, spa, complete fitness center, sauna and recreation room with kitchen. Beautiful views extend from the Towers’ lofty homes in the sky. Mountain vistas and slender skyscrapers provide an incredible back drop to complement your decor. Far below are a host of businesses ready to support your pampered downtown lifestyle. With spectacular cultural events nearby, even the most demanding tastes are satisfied. Downtown, it’s not just big business anymore. Visit the Towers Apartments today.

TOWERS T H E

A PA RT M E N T S

www.TowersApartmentsLA.com

MAID SERVICE • FURNITURE • HOUSEWARES • CABLE • UTILITIES • PARKING RESIDENCES: SINGLES • STUDIO • ONE BEDROOM • TWO BEDROOM