LOS ANGELES
DOWNTOWN
NEWS Volume 40, Number 37
INSIDE
Holiday Party Planning 13-25
September 12, 2011
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W W W. D O W N T O W N N E W S . C O M
A DAY OF REMEMBRANCE
Comparing the Dodgers to Downtown.
6
Of skateboards and pizzas.
8
A new media hub in Chinatown.
12
A reporter finds that getting fit hurts.
photo by Gary Leonard
City leaders and public safety officials filled the south lawn of City Hall on Friday, Sept. 9, and paid tribute to the victims of and responders to the 9-11 attacks.
26
A Rollicking Redevelopment Ride East West Players’ unimportant widow.
29
CRA CEO Chris Essel Talks About Preparing for a Leaner Future, And Some Key Downtown Projects by Ryan Vaillancourt staff writer
31 CALENDAR LISTINGS
W
hen former Paramount Studios executive Christine Essel took the reins as CEO of the Los Angeles Community Redevelopment Agency in May 2010, she pledged to boost efficiency in order to increase productivCONVERSATIONS
36 MAP 37 CLASSIFIEDS
ity. In other words, she sounded just like any other private sector veteran taking the leap into public service. A few months later, Essel was forced to change her focus to a task far more urgent, and certainly unexpected: Help save the agency from Gov. Jerry Brown’s budget cleaver. That was after Essel had
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already been charged with orchestrating a 20% staff reduction. While Brown’s proposal to eliminate redevelopment agencies ultimately failed, the state legislature passed a law requiring them to collectively pay $1.7 billion. For the CRA, that means $96.5 million in 2012, and annual payments of up to $30 million after that. The California Redevelopment Association is fighting the legislation, arguing that Proposition 22, which voters overwhelming passed in November, bars state grabs of redevelopment money. The state Supreme Court has vowed to consider the association’s challenge by Jan. 15. Until then, the agency can’t tackle future projects. That makes this a busy time for Essel as the agency works on a host of projects it fast-tracked
for approval earlier this year. She spoke with Los Angeles Downtown News about preparing the CRA for a leaner future, Downtown projects including the Cleantech Manufacturing Center, and tinkering with the very definition of redevelopment. Los Angeles Downtown News: Is it safe to say this is not the job that you signed up for? Chris Essel: No one could have imagined that this is what I’d end up facing. Q: What was your mindset coming into the job? A: I served as chair of the agency’s Hollywood Community Advisory Committee in the late ’80s and early ’90s, before Mayor Bradley invited me to see Essel, page 10
It’s happening downtown. www.lacwh.org
www.facebook.com/lacwh
(213) 742.5784 COMING THIS FALL
2 Downtown News
September 12, 2011
Twitter/DowntownNews
AROUNDTOWN Looking for Downtown’s Best Lofts
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o you have one of the best-looking or best-designed apartments or condos in Downtown? Do you want to show it off without having strangers traipse through it? Then Los Angeles Downtown News wants to hear from you. We’re currently assembling entries for our next Downtown Living section. The special section, which publishes Oct. 17, includes “What’s in My Loft,” in which proud Downtowners show off their residence and talk about a few of their favorite possessions. The stories include pictures of the loft occupants and their treasures. So if you have the place and the place has the look, then email a short description and photo to Dawn Eastin at dawn@downtownnews. com.
Dude, I Stole This Car
T
wo cops are parked at a Downtown intersection when a guy in a Honda pulls up, rolls down the window and says, “Officer, I just stole this car.” It sounds like the beginning of a bad joke, but there’s no punch line. This happened on Monday, Sept. 5. At about noon, Christian Borro, 27, a repeat car thief, turned himself in to Central Division officers parked near Olympic Boulevard and Broadway. He told them he had stolen the car he was driving. “No one was more incredulous than the officers,” LAPD Lt. Paul Vernon said in a statement. “But they asked him to pull over and investigated his claim.” Borro explained that he had taken the vehicle from an apartment complex in San Diego around midnight. He showed the
officers how he used a screwdriver to bypass the ignition. The officers could see wiring hanging from the steering column. Police reported that when asked why he told the officers what he had done, Borro answered, “Because I’m almost out of gas.” Borro, who was on probation for car theft, listed his occupation as a student at Miramar College near San Diego.
Garcetti Jumps Into Mayor’s Race
C
ity Council President Eric Garcetti last week put an end to the speculation over whether or not he’ll seek the city’s highest office: In a statement released on Thursday, Sept. 8, he said he had filed paperwork for the race with the City Ethics Commission. He said he wants the job now held by Antonio Villaraigosa “to get L.A. and our economy back on track.” Garcetti, who was first elected to represent the council’s 13th District in 2001, has served as president of the panel since 2005. “I’ll bring focused leadership based on experience, practical know-how, and a willingness to embrace innovation,” said Garcetti, the son of former District Attorney Gil Garcetti, in the statement. “Los Angeles is the most dynamic city in the world. We need leadership that brings people together around a common vision that puts Los Angeles back on top.” Garcetti joins an increasingly crowded field. Two other elected leaders, Ninth District City Councilwoman Jan Perry and City Controller Wendy Greuel, have been running since the spring. Private-sector individuals who have filed papers for the March 2013 election include Austin Beutner, the businessman and former top deputy to Villaraigosa, and radio host Kevin James.
photo by Gary Leonard
The city celebrated its 230th birthday on Sunday, Sept. 4. A public celebration at El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument featured speeches and a cake.
Last Weeks for Downtown Bookstore
M
etropolis Books, a retail pioneer of the Old Bank District, will close in less than three weeks. Owner Julie Swayze has been looking to sell the business, in hopes of preserving the independent bookshop as she spends more see Around Town, page 7
University of Southern California
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Metropolitan Opera keeps on beaming. Die Walküre by Richard Wagner Sunday, September 18, noon Eileen Norris Cinema Theatre Admission: Free, reservation required cinema.usc.edu
DireCtor robert Lepage’S sumptuous new staging of Wagner’s Die Walküre – with bass-baritone Bryn Terfel as mighty Wotan and dramatic soprano Deborah Voigt as the warlike Brünnhilde – kicks off USC’s sixth season presenting Metropolitan Opera HD broadcasts. Short of hopping a plane to the Big Apple, there’s no better way to enjoy these live performances than in USC’s state-of-the-art Norris Cinema Theatre. Future broadcasts include two more Wagner Ring installments – Siegfried and Götterdämmerung – along with Donizetti’s Anna Bolena, Mozart’s Don Giovanni, Handel’s Rodelinda, Massenet’s Manon, Verdi’s La Traviata and the world premiere of a new Baroque opera remix, The Enchanted Island. To see full listings and make online reservations, go to bit.ly/MetOperaHD
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Posing Beauty in African American Culture Through December 3 Tuesday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m. Saturday, noon to 4 p.m. Another cultural offering direct from the Big Apple is the current exhibition at USC’s Fisher Museum of Art. On tour from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, Posing Beauty in African American Culture is a photographic exploration of contested ideas about black beauty. Curated by NYU photography professor Deborah Willis, the show incorporates 84 works in a range of media, featuring images by James Van Der Zee, Carrie Mae Weems, Man Ray, Walker Evans, Robert Mapplethorpe and many others. USC Fisher Museum of Art Admission: Free (213) 740-4561 | fisher.usc.edu
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September 12, 2011
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4 Downtown News
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September 12, 2011
EDITORIALS Urban Scrawl by Doug Davis
A High Price, and High Value, for Maguire Gardens
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arks in urban centers are precious commodities, especially in Downtown Los Angeles. Unlike Seattle, New York, Chicago, San Francisco, San Diego, Miami and Washington, D.C., among many others, Downtown L.A. has no identifying major green space or waterway to which to tether its identity, its planning or its vista. Focusing on the development of parks Downtown is essential to the quality of life and the future of our urban core. Planners, both professional and amateur, have worked hard in the past couple of decades to create parks and other open spaces in Downtown L.A. Their efforts have been moderately successful, and will be improved next summer when the $56 million Grand Avenue Civic Park debuts. However, three times as much success would not be too much in this desert city hoping to be something else, especially at a time when more residents are moving here and more people are coming Downtown for entertainment. Everything we say about parks and the future should be seen in light of what is occurring in other cities. For example, the city of San Jose has about 200 parks, dwarfing our current efforts. Focusing on what we do have, one of our favorite evolving efforts is the Spring Street park being created by the city with future operations possibly being paid for by residents in adjacent condominium buildings and other local business figures. We very much admire those who take on responsibility for their own lives and improve a neighborhood with those efforts. We are particularly enamored of a larger and older effort, one also conceived of by community volunteers, contributed to by the private sector and embraced and nurtured by city government: Maguire Gardens. It is a special place in the Downtown landscape not just for its beautiful, mature trees and pacific, gurgling fountains, but also because of its history. Early plans for the renovation of the Central Library included a dreadful, gray, spirit-killing surface parking lot where Maguire Gardens now stands. Thanks in large part to the tenacious efforts of Downtown booster and preservationist John Welborne, who railed against the dismal future of the southeast corner of Fifth and Flower streets, planners and real
estate developers took another look. The result was a requirement by the city that the developer of what was then called Library Tower, just north of the Central Library, build a park over underground parking where the gray would have gone. It was part of an elegant agreement by the city to sell the development rights associated with the five-acre library parcel for a pot of gold with which to renovate the aging library. Developer Robert F. Maguire embraced the requirement and the idea, taking it to a new level. He contributed his company’s efforts as well as some of his personal wealth into conceiving and executing this superb open space with walkways and seven historic, artistic and multicultural fountains. It also led to one of Downtown’s early high-end restaurants, Café Pinot. We can’t believe that anyone who finds themselves at that corner would prefer to see the original gray parking lot in its place. It was a gifted moment of urban planning and execution. Recently, Los Angeles Downtown News looked into the price of the park. The operations and maintenance of the 2.3-acre space (which includes some common areas around the library) cost the city more than $246,000 in 2010. The company, now called MPG Office Trust, is responsible for the maintenance of the park and the city reimburses MPG for the costs. That strikes us as the best structure for the division of responsibility. The contract was up for renewal recently, and was approved by the board of Library Commissioners. However, after calls from Downtown News, Ninth District Councilwoman and mayoral candidate Jan Perry challenged the automatic 2% annual increase in payment that is part of the deal with MPG. It is reasonable to question that arrangement. It’s been 20 years and the city is in difficult financial times. Either is a good reason to make sure precious revenues are being well spent. Anything that is “automatic” should have another look from time to time as a matter of course.
The Downtown News article compared the cost of maintaining parks throughout Downtown and found that there is no question that Maguire Gardens costs more per square foot than the other parks. For example, the price is about $100,000 higher annually than Grand Hope Park, but that fencedin space is not all that open. It is largely for the students at FIDM, though it dutifully opens its gates to the kids in the neighborhood when it needs to do so. However, the rest of Downtown cannot even walk its dogs there. And hours of operation are somewhat truncated. The comparison to the 10.5-acre Vista Hermosa Natural Park, which costs $199,000 a year to maintain, might be considered apt because of the plethora of extraordinary California native plants that greet visitors, but the park is operated by the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy. While we’re grateful for the Conservancy’s dedication to native plants and a robust, usable, family and dog-friendly park, complete with a children’s play area, extensive trails, and an impressive litat-night, high-end soccer field, the organization’s funds are donated and some of their efforts come from volunteers. Of course it costs less to operate than Maguire Gardens, run by government and the private sector, where the budgets don’t come from donations. The City Council agreed with Perry and rejected a new contract with MPG. The council then instructed the Library Department to come up with a more detailed description of the costs. As we say, it is reasonable, even prudent, to examine the costs closely. However, we caution against over-reaction. We urge the Library Department and the city to keep the quality of park maintenance high for the 7,000 people a day who come through there and the dozens of events held there each year, requirements that none of the other parks experience. We also urge the decision makers to remember that it is worth at least a bit of a premium to maintain a park that could have been a parking lot. We got what we wished for; now it needs to be maintained. Also, let’s hope that Los Angeles follows San Jose’s lead.
September 12, 2011
The Readers Respond Website Comments on a Football Stadium, A Spring Street Park and More
E
very week Los Angeles Downtown News gets online comments to the stories we publish. These are some of the most interesting responses. Additional comments are welcome at ladowntownnews.com. Regarding the article “Leiweke Hopes to Break Ground on Stadium by June,” published online Aug. 9, by Jon Regardie
G
ee, what do you know? Who, again, wasn’t mentioned? Yep, that would be the St. Louis Rams. Go ahead and keep wishing teams away and there will be no football at all in L.A. —Tim Chase, Aug. 10, 9:31 a.m.
T
he illustration you use with the article is sheer fantasy. There will not be blue skies visible through a permanent dome. The grass will not be there; Astroturf will be. The dome will not be able to retract. The site, the smallest in the NFL, is too small for it to retract. The seating would only provide 64,000 seats. The laughable parking situation would disallow tailgating and the full NFL experience. This ridiculous project should never see the light of day. It is designed only to enrich AEG and Phil Anshutz, who as you noted in the article would become a co-owner of the team they would steal, probably from San Diego. —Native Angeleno, Aug. 10, 5:23 p.m.
N
ative Angeleno, please re-check your facts. Solider Field in Chicago has the smallest stadium in the NFL at 61,500 seats. Farmers Field will be expanded to 76K-78K
Downtown News 5
Opinion
seats for mega events like the Super Bowl and the NCAA Final Four. Also, retractable roof domes can have real grass. The Texans and Cardinals both play in domes with retractable roofs that have real grass. There is no more old, 1970/80s Astroturf. Major sports now use Field Turf. Players rate this surface highly. —Zuckerkhan, Aug. 11, 10:36 a.m. Regarding the article “City Pays Premium for Maguire Gardens,” published online Aug. 24, by Ryan Vaillancourt
S
ince when is Maguire Gardens open 24 hours? I have been told by security on several occasions that the park closes at 10 p.m. I’ve been passing through from Bunker Hill and have had security chase me down and tell me the park is closed. So it sounds like there’s either a serious miscommunication somewhere, or there’s double-dipping going on. But, I have to say that I do agree that Maguire Gardens is the best open space in Downtown, hands down. I can also attest to its use during the lunch hours and even in the evenings. —Rich Alossi, Aug. 24, 7:28 p.m. Regarding the Guest Opinion “The Great Mixie Tribe,” about the ethnic diversity in Downtown, published July 6, by Anne Marie Ruff
I
’m a transplanted Easterner and have always loved the diversity in California. I too have mixed children and mixed grandchildren and have found that Los Angeles is the most comfortable place to raise such
I
children. I agree with you that the younger generations coming up will be so much more open and accepting of all ethnicities — a dream I have held for a long time. —Paula Samuel, Aug. 23, 1:43 p.m.
really hope this works, but given this city’s tradition of letting the homeless camp out anywhere they like, I am doubtful. Let’s keep fingers crossed. —Rick, Aug. 9, 1:49 p.m.
Regarding the article “City Ready to Break Ground on Spring Street Park,” which noted the park will be open to people with dogs, published online Aug. 4, by Richard Guzmán
I
am all for the park. Downtown needs more greenery and open space! This is great news. And of course a park needs to support pets — it is silly not to incorporate. —John J, Aug. 10, 9:59 a.m.
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’m not as worried about dog waste as I am about the human kind. At least most people clean up after their dogs. And what will be done about those who will think the benches are for their naps? One only has to look at Santa Monica to see our future. Sorry to be a Debbie-Downer, but sadly these are just facts. —bigphatcatlover, Aug. 4, 6:21 p.m.
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can remember when Pershing Square was grassy and had benches and trees. It’s not in such great condition now. What makes anyone think this new park will be any better-kept or safer? —Gene Bivens, Aug. 5, 12:25 p.m.
T
here seems to be some confusion here on some key points. This is not a private park. All money collected from donations is managed by Community Partners (a local nonprofit incubator) and spent according to the guidelines for maintenance set by the Department of Parks and Recreation. One of Parks and Rec’s guidelines is that this park be open and available to the public at the same hours as all other public parks (sunrise to sunset). After that the park will be closed to everyone. Part of the maintenance budget is set aside for park concierges to help keep order and make sure rules are followed, like no sleeping in the park. —Josh Gray-Emmer, Aug. 8, 12:05 p.m.
t costs $3 million to build an apartment building with 40 500-square-foot units. Why does it cost so much to build a park? Does a $3 million, one-acre park have restrooms? —Rox Berry, Aug. 10, 3:13 p.m. Regarding the article “Cheer for the Home Team,” published online Aug. 12, by Dave Denholm
ave, you live Downtown, so you know the value of having a walkable community where you can live and work in the same place. That’s why I believe it makes a lot more sense to build a residential community on that site instead of an AEG football stadium. It would not be good to draw all that traffic from outside the city. Turn L.A. into a walkable city and leave the NFL stadium for Industry where it’s just unused open space. —Gergen, Aug. 14, 1:22 a.m. Regarding the article “Big Numbers and Bigger Money in Downtown Survey,” published online Aug. 23, by Jon Regardie
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reat to hear. It will only get better with football, the streetcar, the Regional Connector (and other rail lines) and more and more new construction. Keep up the good work Downtown! —Matt Gunter, Aug. 23, 3:12 p.m.
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Downtown vs. the Dodgers Who Wins in a Head-to-Head Battle? by Dave Denholm
I
t occurred to me the other day that sometimes I feel the same way about the Dodgers as I do about living Downtown. Ups and downs come with the territory. It got me thinking about comparing the two and trying to determine whether I am higher on the Dodgers or the neighborhood that is my home. Bit of a stretch? Not as much as you might think. Traffic: The Dodgers have improved their parking situation by leaps and bounds recently (the one thing Frank McCourt got right). Yet, it’s still brutal trying to get back to Sunset after a game, especially since it’s usually after the boys were held to four hits in another 3-0 loss. Figueroa following a Lakers game or the once-a-week parade on Broadway can mess up traffic Downtown, no doubt. But, as we all know, the beauty of living here is we walk anyway. Advantage: Downtown Food: I would be perfectly happy for the rest of my life eating The Nickel’s Nite Club sandwich, Bottega Louie’s Portobello fries or the two taco plate at Fernando’s. I am also about to write something that may get me kicked out of L.A. for good, but here goes: Dodger Dogs are horrible! Just horrible. Sorry, Blue faithful, but I do not taste the allure. I usually taste cold, bland hot dog. Yes, they’ve boosted their overall menu the past few seasons, but when the main attraction is that bad it taints everything else. Advantage: Downtown
The Art Program of the Community Redevelopment Agency of the City of Los Angeles (CRA/LA) developed these tours to introduce residents and visitors to their collection of public art created by a broad range of artists, in a variety of forms and neighborhood contexts. The tours available include:
Financial District Historic Core Bunker Hill Little Tokyo
Creature Comforts: Look, my wife and I hate our bathroom. But if there is one place that has bathrooms worse than my own, it’s Dodger Stadium. There are troughs in the men’s room. What, did they not get the memo that Dodger Stadium is not the County Fair circa 1972? I also have a killer view from my loft of the Ritz and South Park, but there is nothing quite like sitting in Dodger Stadium on a lovely summer evening and looking out over what’s just beyond left center field at Chavez Ravine. Truly gorgeous. Advantage: Downtown (barely) Best Special Occasion Night: The Dodgers actually have a couple of good ones. One is whenever Clayton Kershaw pitches. Kershaw is about as “Sandy Koufax” as anyone other than Sandy Koufax can get. The other nights are Fireworks Fridays. I think the tagline is, “If our lineup doesn’t thrill you, our pyrotechnics will!” I would have said Art Walk for Downtown, but it jumped the shark a couple days after the phrase “jumped the shark” jumped the shark. Instead, I go with summer Saturday nights and the free concerts in Pershing Square. Where else can you see 10,000 Maniacs do an awesome 90-minute set and think their lead singer was still Natalie Merchant until the second-to-last song. Oh, was that just me? Oops. Advantage: Dodgers Where Have You Been?: Downtown has been rebuilding since 1999. The Dodgers have been rebuilding since 1988. This is a case where less is more.
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September 12, 2011
If the Dodgers were a World Series contender, Matt Kemp would be considered the best baseball player on the planet.
Advantage: Downtown Where Are You Going?: Downtown has Farmers Field, Eli Broad’s art museum and myriad other projects to look forward to. The Dodgers recently traded away one of their top prospects, Trayvon Robinson, for three average prospects. We call that Dodger Math. Advantage: Downtown MVP: Downtown’s MVP right now is a tight race. You could make an argument for Clifton’s owner Andrew Meieran or Councilwoman Jan Perry, but I go with AEG President and CEO Tim Leiweke. He has been a huge part of the revitalization of Downtown with Staples Center, L.A. Live and now the real possibility of Farmers Field. There’s a reason Downtown News named him the most powerful person in Downtown this year. If the Dodgers were a first place team and a contender to win it all, Matt Kemp would be considered the best baseball player on the planet. He’s got it all. Actually, all you have to know is he’s more talented than his ex, Rihanna. Even Leiweke can’t say that. Advantage: Dodgers
Who’s in Power?: Downtown, and the rest of Los Angeles, will have a new mayor in 2013. That will make it easier to get good tickets to sporting events and concerts around town. Dodger fans can only pray the team has new leadership by then. McCourt makes Donald Sterling look like “Owner of the Year” material. Advantage: Downtown In the News: Downtown has gotten great national press, most recently for the progress on Farmers Field. It seems like every day I read in some out-of-town magazine or website about how cool Downtown is now. The Dodgers recently announced a partnership with Hello Kitty! No, I’m not making this up. What’s next? A co-branding deal with My Little Pony? A work exchange with Dora the Explorer? Advantage: Downtown Results: Earlier, you might have thought this column was a stretch. Well, the final score has the Dodgers losing 7-2. Can’t get any more realistic than that. Dave Denholm loves NFL football, riding Angels Flight on his way to Casa (try the tacos al pastor) and living Downtown.
September 12, 2011
Downtown News 7
DowntownNews.com
Around Town Continued from page 2 time caring for an ailing parent in Texas. The business’ lease is up and she does not want to commit to a new 10-year contract in the Canadian Building at 440 S. Main St. Swayze opened the shop in December 2006, and has built up a loyal, local clientele that flocked for new releases and books about Downtown and Southern California. A regular venue for readings and other literary events, Swayze last week hosted the final special event. But in a sense, the next three weeks will be a rolling special event. Swayze is interviewing customers and neighbors on camera to make a documentary about Metropolis’ final month. Additionally,
all inventory is discounted by 35% or more, she said. Even the shelves are for sale. Swayze put the shop on the market in June, but hasn’t been able to find a buyer. The operation’s final day is slated for Sept. 28.
New Gastropub Coming To Angelique Space
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any Downtown French food aficionados shed a figurative tear last month, when longtime restaurant Angelique Café shuttered. Although the paté and other goods have gone away, the eatery at the triangular corner where Main and Spring streets converge (between Eighth and Ninth streets) may have a brighter future. Derrick Moore, executive vice president of broker-
a healthy eating program. The money is coming from the Pepsico Foundation and will benefit the Plaza’s Edible Teaching Garden and Culinary Arts program. The grant will be presented to LA Plaza officials on Tuesday, Sept. 13. The program will offer educational demonstrations and cooking lessons in the effort to encourage physical activity, healthy food choices and educate participants on the cultural history of Mexican and Mexican American cuisine. Children in the program will learn about the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables native to the Americas. The 2.2-acre, $27 million facility at 501 N. Main St. opened in April. It is adjacent to the El Pueblo de Los he recently opened LA Plaza de Cul Angeles Historical Monument and is part tura y Artes announced last that museum and part interactive school and 1264week W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA, 90026 • 213.481.1448 it will be getting a $1 million grant to launch community gathering place. age services at CB Richard Ellis, said that chef Casey Lane of Venice’s Tasting Kitchen will open a gastropub at the now empty location. A debut is planned for the end of the year and work is already underway, with the fencing around the patio now removed. The Tasting Kitchen has become popular for its atmosphere and rotating menu. The website Eater L.A. reported that former Seven Grand mixologist John Coltharp will run the bar.
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September 12, 2011
Twitter/DowntownNews
Slices and Boards A Former Pro Skateboarder Dishes Out Arts District Pizza by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR
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t’s safe to say that Salman Agah has an approach unlike that of most bosses. Rather than rely on intense research or market analysis, his decisions are informed by grinds, ollies and other skateboarding moves. “All the things I’ve learned in skating I’ve applied to this business,” said Agah, a former professional skateboarder who, with his wife and brother-in-law, owns Seventh Street’s Pizzanista. “I kind of look at everything as a skateboarding trick, so opening a restaurant is like a new trick…. It’s similar
in that you’ve got to be able to take a risk, be able to deal with falling down and getting back up.” As evidence of his decision-making process, consider the name of the restaurant. Although it originally launched as Toddy G’s, an ownership division prompted the search for a new moniker. Agah found inspiration not in a reference to cheese or cooking methods, but rather in fiery British punk pioneers The Clash. “They have an album called Sandinista,” he said. “We also liked that ‘nista’ means to be a connoisseur of something. We thought it had a really good ring to it.”
Agah, who sports a shaved head and thick, tattooed arms, and favors a casual jeans and T-shirt attire, is one of two children of Iranian and Azerbaijani parents. Born in 1972, he began skating at the age of 5 after his father bought him a skateboard. By the time he graduated from high school he had turned pro and was skating all over the world in competitions and demonstrations. In 1993 he was named Thrasher Magazine Skater of the Year. He is known as a pioneer in the sport for the switch stance, a move in which a skater rides opposite to his or her natural side. It’s akin to learning how to be ambidextrous. Pizzanista isn’t his first entrepreneurial venture. Agah has had his own Vans produced shoe; started energy drink business The Skaterage Beverage Company; and helped create a quarterly magazine called Skatebook. Still, nothing he’s done has been quite like making Downtown pizza.
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Downtown News 9
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Agah and his affable art dealer wife, Price Latimer Agah, have lived in the Arts District for about seven years. Last October they partnered with Toddy Giordanella to open the 1,200-square-foot pizzeria Toddy G’s at 2019 E. Seventh St. The relationship dissolved and Giordanella left in June. Agah would not discuss the reasons except to say that Giordanella wanted to return to his roots in New Jersey. Giordanella could not be reached for comment. The Agahs initially thought of doing a bar in the area. Then, one day about two years ago, Agah was walking his dogs and ran into Skyler Reeves, head of operations for 213 Inc. and the former general manager of the company’s latest nightlife endeavor, Tony’s Saloon. Agah inquired about opening a restaurant in the adjacent Seventh Street space. He thought it seemed natural for a desolate portion of Downtown. “Everybody loves pizza and we’re next door to Tony’s bar, so obviously what goes better with beer than pizza?” Latimer Agah reasoned. The 213 Inc. crowd agreed, and both businesses saw a benefit. Tony’s happy hour clientele has increased since the opening of the pizza spot, said Reeves. That’s partly attributable to the fact that customers can order a slice from the bartender and have it delivered to the bar. While the bar crowd is a nice base, the Agahs know they need to expand their business. Hence, the focus on the concept: New York style pizza with a traditional thin crust but an open mind toward toppings. Before the restaurant originally opened, the partners consulted with Steve Samson (chef and owner of the oft-praised Pico Boulevard pizza joint Sotto LA) to develop their dough, sauce and menu. The recipes have remained the same since the split.
photos by Gary Leonard
Salman Agah often delivers pizza on his skateboard. The former pro skater and his wife run Pizzanista in the Arts District.
“Everything is handmade every day,” Latimer Agah said. “It’s New York pizza with California fresh ingredients. We use organic ingredients as much as possible.” Popular menu items include, well, the Meat Jesus, a hearty concoction of bacon, sausage, pepperoni, spicy soppressata and mushrooms. There’s also the macaroni and cheese, a multi-cheese macaroni and cheese meal on a crispy slice. It’s the Sunday special and usually sells out, Agah said. The slices run $2.75-$4, while 18-inch pies are priced between $18 and $31. Skate Brigade While Tony’s provides a swath of regulars who pair their beers with a slice, they also pull customers from the skateboarding cir-
cuit. That is evident on review sites like Yelp, where praise for the slices is augmented by mentions of Agah’s other career. “The owner is the type to check on you and even sit down and chat with you when you admit you are totally a big fan of his legendary skateboarding!” one Yelp reviewer wrote. Pizzanista also has fans at the Downtown location of “Rob Dyrdek’s Fantasy Factory,” an MTV show that focuses on skateboarding. Other customers come from The Berrics, an indoor skate park just across the L.A. River in Boyle Heights. For the skating community, Pizzanista is an oasis in a relative food desert. “This neighborhood needed a cool pizza spot,” said Brian Atlas, general manager of Street League Skateboarding, a skate league
founded by Dyrdek. “I think that street in particular has a lot of potential.” With the combination of bar patrons, skaters and Agah fans, the restaurant is serving about 250 people per day, Latimer Agah said. They have a 10-year lease on the place, and although they are only open for dinner, she said they will soon add lunch service. Meanwhile, skate fans who call for delivery may get an extra treat. If the call is close enough, Agah is known to hop on his board, prop a pie up on his arm and deliver the pizza himself. No other tricks are promised. Pizzanista is at 2019 E. Seventh St., (213) 627-1430. Open Tuesday-Saturday 5 p.m.midnight and Sunday 5-10 p.m. Deliveries are within a two-mile area. Contact Richard Guzmán richard@downtownnews.com.
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10 Downtown News
September 12, 2011
Twitter/DowntownNews
Essel Continued from page 1 join the board in the ’90s. I saw the value of redevelopment at the ground level and knew what it could bring to the city and certainly saw it do its job in Hollywood over two decades. It struck me when I was on the board that having the opportunity to help, to be at the helm of the agency would be a great opportunity. It didn’t seem practical at the time when I was busily working at Paramount and had my career going there. But I wanted to see the agency managed well. It always seemed like there was an excess of bureaucracy, that there were complications, that we weren’t as nimble as I would have liked us to be when I was on the board. Given my experience, I thought maybe one day it might actually work out that I could come here and bring a different style to the agency that would allow it to do even more toward what its mission is. Q: Instead you’ve had to do what? A: Quite the opposite. In a way, it’s been almost the unraveling of the agency. My first job when I arrived here was to get our budget passed. The budget already had baked into it a reduction in our overhead, which resulted in a 20% reduction in our staff by the end of that fiscal year. We accomplished it in the first six months. We did it through an early retirement incentive package, which was hard fought initially but we did get it through. It was a very successful first seven months in the sense that we got that done and we were able to shift around the respon-
photo by Gary Leonard
Former Paramount Studios executive Christine Essel became CEO of the CRA in May 2010. Shortly after arriving, Gov. Jerry Brown proposed killing the CRA and every other redevelopment agency in California.
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sibilities to others that remained at the organization. We were ready to go January 1. Q: That’s when the budget bomb dropped: Gov. Jerry Brown proposed eliminating redevelopment agencies statewide to help shore up the deficit. What was your reaction when it first came up? A: My reaction was truly one of disbelief. We figured there might be some way they might come after redevelopment dollars, but all-out elimination? It was nonsensical to those of us that live in the redevelopment world because of the dire need for job creation, to get the economy moving, to get construction rolling again, especially within the city, in the infill areas. It didn’t make any sense that we were harming our economic future by grabbing dollars today and eliminating the one tool that the city and state had. It just didn’t sync up, especially given Jerry’s success using redevelopment in Oakland. Q: Considering that the legislation that was ultimately passed wasn’t an all-out elimination of redevelopment, do you consider the bill a victory? A: I think it’s a victory that we still live on today. Q: If the court upholds what’s been passed, thereby continuing to require the annual payments to the state, what’s at stake for the CRA? A: The first payment to the state has been identified to be $96.5 million for 2012. We would make that payment in two installments: 50% on Jan. 15 and 50% on May 15. In the outgoing years, we’ve determined at least in 2013 it would be roughly between $25 million and $30 million and that would continue and slowly diminish over the course of time. In the context of our full budget, we have about a $240 million tax increment cash flow in a year. Of that, about half is committed to debt service and pass-throughs and taxing entities so we have about $120 million left to actually work with. In 2012, a $96 million payment severely hampers our ability to work on the missions we have in place in our project areas. It means we’ll only get some $20 million in new resources in 2012. That’s about 75% less of what we would have had under normal circumstances. However, the way the agency budget works is we always have carry-over money because you can’t spend every dollar in the year that you get it. So we had quite a bit of carry-over money in our budget going into 2012. Seeing that the state had the intention of potentially eliminating us, we booked a lot of our
projects earlier than we might have. So, yes we’re still in business, but we assume if the court doesn’t decide to invalidate the bills that we will be needing in about two or three years to seriously downsize the agency, unless we are very successful at adopting new project areas and finding new resources. Q: Brown’s initial proposal reignited a lot of old debates about redevelopment. Was there a silver lining to having redevelopment thrust back into a public conversation? A: It was the first time that a lot of our positive stories got a chance to be aired. In this environment, when we complete an affordable housing project or have a successful public improvement project or do a groundbreaking, it doesn’t necessarily get the coverage of, “Look at what redevelopment has provided this community.” There was a lot more interest in the media of what we bring. There were certainly the stories out there as well on how redevelopment might have been misused. I think it’s fair certainly. These are tax dollars and there should be transparency, accountability and all should come to light. What I find interesting is that the solution ended up still being about money. The solution at least to date has not been about reforming redevelopment so that it’s a 21st century tool instead of a mid-last century tool. That is hopefully to come.
projects if it might modify those agreements. Oddly enough we’ve been extremely busy. Leading up to getting our ordinance passed, a tremendous effort went in to all the documentation we provided to the city. We had to find $97 million to scrub from our budget. We’re now looking at getting our 2012 budget passed with those changes in it in early September. We need to get our budget passed so when the court does act we can get back into action. Q: In terms of the agency’s priorities, where does the Cleantech Manufacturing Center rank? A: It is a very top priority. It’s one of our key objectives agency-wide. It’s a young project area. It’s got a tremendous opportunity for job creation and is the next phase for Downtown redevelopment. It’s where we need to be going next. It will clearly get a tremendous amount of focus from the agency. We also have the cleantech incubator project in the Arts District that we’ve worked on with the DWP. So we’ve got the two anchors.
Q: How does the agency justify spending $52 million to support an art museum in an area of Grand Avenue that few would consider “blighted?” A: Our $52 million isn’t going toward the museum. It’s going toward the plaza area, the area for the public and it’s going to support the parking structure for the housing project that Related is building on the adjacent lot. It’s also money promised to [Eli] Broad. He’s fronting the dollars. We’re saying, “While you’re at it, build the garage large enough so we can get this Related project built.” It is housing; a portion will be affordable. There’s a crying need for that. And it completes a piece of the street. Would we have preferred Broad go to Santa Monica? No. We want it here.
Q: What do you see on the road ahead? A: I would say what has me most engaged about the future is our unit that we created around strategic planning. The Strategic Planning Group has a focus on economic development programs. They’re the group that established the Industrial Incentive Program, the healthy foods initiative and others. And it’s agency-wide. We’re centralizing a function here that will allow all our project areas to tap into it and create an agenda, one that begins to shift the agency toward more economic development and job creation opportunities. It’s the unit that can help guide us to the redevelopment of the 21st century. And, we’re looking at taking it one step further: What have other cities done to create resources beyond what is our traditional resource [tax increment] that would help us further our agenda in our communities? Given that I’m likely to have fewer resources one way or another, how to we bring in more, and do more with the resources we have?
Q: With the courts essentially blocking redevelopment activities from moving forward until it rules on the challenge, what can the CRA actually do? A: We can only work on projects that had contracts in place. We can’t incur more debt, or anything that requires a contractual obligation. There’s a lot we can’t even do to existing
Q: How long do you see yourself here? A: Right now, I see myself here for the duration. I think redevelopment will survive. And I enjoy my opportunity here and the opportunity to help build a model for what the future of redevelopment looks like. Contact Ryan Vaillancourt at ryan@downtownnews.com.
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12 Downtown News
September 12, 2011
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Chinatown’s New Creative Class A Wave of Film and Media Companies Lands in the Neighborhood by Ryan VaillancouRt staff wRiteR
B
ack in 2005, film producer Frank Mayor was looking to ditch the offices his company Cinevision rented near Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. When he came across a three-story building on Bamboo Lane in Chinatown that was for sale, he knew he had found what he was looking for. At the time, Chinatown was a burgeoning hub of creative types: Art studios and galleries had made the community a respected fine art nucleus. Cinevision, however, was somewhat of an outlier as a film industry player. Six years later, Chinatown has started to attract a small wave of creative media businesses. Cinevision now counts as its neighbors film companies such as True Vision Entertainment, which leased a 5,000-square-foot warehouse on Main Street last year, and Mirror Films, which just bought a two-story building on Chung King Road. Mayor, whose 10-person company produces an array of short films, including how-to videos, and provides postproduction services, wasn’t particularly looking to be part of a new media nexus. But that’s what seems to be occurring, he said. The company has also recently partnered with producer and documentary filmmaker Hector Cruz Sandoval, who has moved his studio office into the Cinevision building. “I see the same thing happening in the media area in Chinatown that happened with galleries,” said Mayor, whose wife ran a gallery in Bamboo Plaza before he bought the Cinevision building at 424 Bamboo Lane. “There’s always been a desire to move Downtown. There hasn’t been a critical mass, but we’re getting to the point where there’s momentum and before you know it, it’ll be a media center.” Cinevision was not the first media company to plant its flag in Chinatown. The gallery scene spawned an array of creative services businesses, including Department of Graphic
Sciences, a design shop that does branding, marketing and website production. The business, which contracts primarily with nonprofit art organizations, educational institutions and the Chinatown Business Improvement District, opened on College Street in 2003 in part to feed off Chinatown’s burgeoning creative community, said company partner Kimberly Varella. “When we speak to non-artists they have no idea why we would have a studio in Chinatown,” Varella said. “We have to tell them that there’s a huge art scene here.” Vibe and Rent Representatives of the new companies coming to Chinatown invariably say they are enticed by the relatively affordable real estate and the convenient, freeway- and public transit-accessible location. They also credit something that can’t really be measured — the feel of the neighborhood. James Mason, a production coordinator for Mirror Films, said the company was drawn in part by “the vibe.” Last month the eight-person business moved into its new headquarters at 963 Chung King Rd., known as the Happy Lion building. The property had been listed for sale for $639,000. Mirror, which produces commercials for the likes of Target, Ikea, Nike and the NCAA, bought the two-story building after working for 12 years out of rented space in Hollywood, Mason said. Another recent arrival, Kleverdog Creative, opened at 418 Bamboo Lane on June 1. The business, run by David Oshima and Kelly Low, does graphic design, branding, marketing and website production. The 3,200-square-foot space also houses Kleverdog Coworking, an offshoot that rents communal workspace to freelancers — clients range from other designers to law students — who lack office space of their own, or just need a break from the desk at home. Low said she was drawn to Chinatown largely because of attractive rents, which for office space can range from as low
photo by Gary Leonard
Frank Mayor moved his production company Cinevision to Chinatown in 2005. Now, the area has a burgeoning community of small media firms.
as 75 cents to about $2 per square foot, according to real estate broker David Louie, first vice president with CB Richard Ellis. Cheap rent also drew Pure Vision Entertainment, a film company with three full-time partners and one part-time employee, that leased a 5,000-square-foot building just east of Chinatown at 1421 N. Main St. last year. The producer of music videos and short films hosted a shorts festival last year at the space and is planning another one in September. “In Hollywood, rents were twice as much for half the space,” said Jennifer Still, the company’s chief operations officer. “I think there’s also been this perception that Downtown is difficult to get to or to find, but I think that perception is quickly going away because there’s just so much more happening here.” Louie said the trend of media companies locating in Chinatown has likely only started. He said he has serious interest from similar businesses to purchase the building at 506-508 Bernard St., which is for sale. Contact Ryan Vaillancourt at ryan@downtownnews.com.
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Downtown News 13
Holiday Parties & Catering
14 Downtown News
Holiday Parties & Catering
September 12, 2011
Home on the Farm for the Holidays A Bit of Beverly Hills Rural Comfort at an L.A. Live Party by Ryan E. Smith
of starting early and keeping it simple.
D
owntown might seem like the last place someone seeking an escape to rural America would go, but that’s exactly where you’ll find The Farm of Beverly Hills. Part of the L.A. Live campus since 2008, this Farm offers a menu full of comfort food that combines innovative American cuisine with farm-fresh ingredients. Still, Carey Soifer, catering sales manager for the restaurant, said a successful holiday party requires more than a great menu, even one featuring a salad with ahi tuna three ways (pepper-crusted, crepe-wrapped and tartare) and spaghetti squash and veggie meatballs. She talked about the importance
Los Angeles Downtown News: What holiday party themes or trends will we be seeing this season? Carey Soifer: I think elegant cocktail parties will be in this year. In this economy, over-the-top parties are not something we’ll be seeing a lot. Simple elegance is a great way to go. Q: People will read this and think that the holidays are months away. Is it really important to start booking now? Why? A: Booking early is always recommended since space fills up fast. I would recommend booking your holiday party by
photo by Gary Leonard
Carey Soifer, catering sales manager for The Farm of Beverly Hills, thinks elegant cocktail parties will be a trend this year.
mid-September to guarantee a date is available that works for your group. Q: In this economy, people are still concerned about price. What are good ways to keep costs down? A: A great way to keep your party costs down is by serving heavy hors d’oeuvres instead of a full meal. This gives you a chance to be more creative in your menu and provide more choices with any size group.
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Q: What dishes work best at a holiday party? A: For holiday parties, interesting bite-size appetizers work, especially for a cocktail party. The Farm offers passed appetizer options such as truffle mac ’n cheese in a hand-crafted parmesan cup, BBQ beef short rib with mashed potatoes on an individual spoon, and warm polenta triangles topped with sauteed spinach and goat cheese. We also offer a variety of stationary appetizers. Q: What kind of food service do you recommend? Buffet? Table seating? Family style? Something else? A: I think all of those options are great depending on the crowd, the number of guests and what sort of party you have in mind. Buffet is more casual, and a seated/served meal is definitely a more elegant approach. Q: What is the most unique aspect or element you offer, whether a food choice, a room choice or something else? A: The most unique element The Farm of Beverly Hills offers are the multiple locations where you can throw your party. At our L.A. Live location we have a patio, a private dining room and semi-private areas of the restaurant.
Why not surround your guests with breathtaking downtown panaramas from high atop AT&T Center? AT&T Center offers a host of locations within the center for a wide variety of events. The Penthouse Tower Suites light up the nighttime sky in Downtown Los Angeles. The stunning 32nd floor provides some of the most spectacular skyline views in Los Angeles and is a perfect location to hold a large scale gala or a holiday party. The 30th floor features sweeping panoramic views with state-of-the-art video and audio systems for your next corporate meeting or seminar. The AT&T Theatre offers a 500-seat theatre fully equipped with the latest lighting and sound equipment and is an ideal venue for seminars, filming, musical events, theatrical performances and film festivals. All venues catered by the nation’s highly acclaimed Patina Catering. We’re in the heart of the action just moments from Staples Center, LA Live and the Convention Center. Contact LBA Realty at 213.741.7400.
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Q: A lot of people feel that a work holiday party is something they’re obligated to attend. What element should someone include so that it’s actually fun? A: Picking a great restaurant is the first element to a fun party. A raffle for prizes is another way for the party planner to make sure the guests want to be there to have fun and to win. Q: Should there be entertainment or games or something? Or are a meal and drinks enough? A: I think most people will be happy with just a great meal and drinks. Games can be fun, but make sure they are original. Leave the potato sack or hardboiled eggs and spoons at home. Q: What’s the one thing every party planner should be sure to do when organizing an event? A: Other than picking a great restaurant, the party planner shouldn’t have to do much, aside from making sure they have fun at the party. Q: Conversely, what’s the biggest mistake party planners make, and how can they avoid this? A: The biggest mistake a party planner can make is having too many details for the actual party. It’s best to keep things organized but simple so that the guests can enjoy themselves and not feel like they are on a tight schedule. The Farm of Beverly Hills is at 800 W. Olympic Blvd, (213) 747-4090 or thefarmofbeverlyhills.com. For party planning, contact Soifer at the above number or carey@thefarmofbeverlyhills. com.
September 12, 2011
Downtown News 15
Holiday Parties & Catering
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16 Downtown News
Holiday Parties & Catering
September 12, 2011
Think Global, Party Local Chaya Downtown Brings International Cuisine to Holiday Festivities by Ryan E. Smith
W
ant your holiday party to go global? Chaya Downtown, with its French-Japanese cuisine, offers a solid starting place. The modern chic design is a bonus. The spot at City National Plaza has a 12seat sushi bar and an outdoor patio surrounded by a lush landscape. The menu includes an extensive list of wine and imported sake. The good thing is, all of these are in play when planning holiday parties. Elaine Asada, the restaurant’s special events manager, talked about the options. Los Angeles Downtown News: What holiday party themes or trends will we be seeing this season? Elaine Asada: We are seeing clients opt for a less formal approach to entertaining. Guests are trending towards cocktails/heavy appetizers that allow them to move and mingle and select from a variety of dishes. People enjoy themed events, and interactive experiences continue to be popular, whether it is a cocktail bar where guests finish and garnish their own drinks or there is a photo booth set up for guests to get their own snapshots. Q: People will read this and think that the holidays are months away. Is it really important to start booking now? Why? A: It’s not too early to identify and book your event location. Whether a personal or work function, no party planner wants to “settle” for an event location because his or her top
choices were booked. There are many other elements to factor in, such as securing entertainment and allowing ample time for your guests to RSVP. Q: In this economy, people are still concerned about price. What are good ways to keep costs down? A: Party planners should consider the scope of their beverage offerings. It’s perfectly fine to offer complimentary beer and wine only with a cash bar available for cocktails. Alternately, you can limit mixed drinks to one signature cocktail. Other ways to keep costs down are prioritizing and limiting your guest list and opting for a more casual approach with tray-passed appetizers or entrees served family style versus a more formal three-course dinner. Q: What dishes work best at a holiday party? A: For a party that features small bites and appetizers, we recommend starting with a sushi platter that features our most popular rolls, such as our kobe beef roll and seafood tartar roll. For an elegant sit-down dinner party, people like to indulge a little more and treat themselves. We recommend some of our signature dishes, such as the miso-marinated white sea bass and our three-peppercorn 10-ounce prime rib eye steak. Q: What kind of food service do you recommend? Buffet? Table seating? Family style? Something else? A: It really depends on the style of the event
photo by Gary Leonard
Elaine Asada of Chaya points out that booking early not only means a venue is secured, but that party planners have more time to line up entertainment and get RSVPs.
itself, whether it’s a casual cocktail party for 100 on our outdoor patio or a more intimate sit-down dinner for 25 in our private dining room. Some clients prefer a cocktail hour ahead of the sit-down dinner with traypassed appetizers and a sushi buffet. Q: What is the most unique aspect or element you offer, whether a food choice, a room choice or something else? A: We take a customized approach with every client and offer a variety of options for event space, from our garden patio to our private dining room. Our executive chef and sushi chefs can tailor the menu in many creative ways. Q: A lot of people feel that a work holiday party is something they’re obligated to attend. What
element should someone include so that it’s actually fun? A: Incorporate an interactive element, such as “cocktail omakase,” where guests allow the bartender to create a signature cocktail that pairs with their meal, or a cocktail bar set up where guests finish and garnish their own drinks. Q: Should there be entertainment or games or something? Or are a meal and drinks enough? A: A warm atmosphere where your guests can enjoy great food and service is a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays and is enough in and of itself. If budgets allow, entertainment is always a nice element to add. Q: What’s the one thing every party planner see Chaya, page 19
September 12, 2011
Downtown News 17
Holiday Parties & Catering
A Hidden Holiday Gem
clude so that it’s actually fun? A: You can always add a gift exchange, a raffle or toasts to highlight the special-ness of the occasion, and, of course, good wine is always a perfect accessory to a good party.
The Small Olive Bistro Comes Up Big During Party Season a food choice, a room choice or something else? A: The Olive Bistro is a hidden gem amongst the hustle and bustle of Downtown. Duck off the street into a 1920s-era office building, travel down a mysterious hallway, and you emerge into a lovely private patio, with the choice of ascending to a beautiful second floor dining area. We are perfect for private parties and special occasions. Everyone who comes in feels like they’re in Little Italy. Q: A lot of people feel that a work holiday party is something they’re obligated to attend. What element should someone in-
photo by Gary Leonard
Holly Akhaven says Olive Street’s Olive Bistro can handle parties for 50 people, or more if the patio is used. by Ryan E. Smith
O
live Street’s Olive Bistro isn’t easy to find, but the folks who make it there usually wind up pleasantly surprised. A lovely patio and a bevy of paintings and plants give an intimate ambiance to this little piece of Italy. Owner Holly Akhavan said she is proud not only of the cuisine, but also for the restaurant’s ability to keep prices down while maintaining consistency and first-rate service. She talked about how to keep holiday parties full of fun and fantastic food.
No. 1
No. 2
AMBIANCE & FESTIVITY
SERVICE & STYLE
Q: What’s the one thing every party planner should be sure to do when organizing an event? A: Every party planner should start early. Whether you are having catered food served at your office or reserving the see Olive, page 21
No. 3 CUISINE & MIXOLOGY
No. 4 CELEBRATION & GIVING
ts n e i d e a r or f g In y t ar yP OU R
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Los Angeles Downtown News: What holiday party themes or trends will we be seeing this season? Holly Akhavan: We feature home-style Mediterranean cooking, an intimate, cozy atmosphere and prices so affordable people ask how we are able to do it. Q: People will read this and think that the holidays are months away. Is it really important to start booking now? Why? A: It doesn’t cost any money to plan ahead. In fact, taking a little time in September to plan for the holidays is more likely to save you money and give you what you are looking for. Wait until the holiday madness begins, and you may be stuck making a choice between paying too much or not getting what you really want.
Q: Should there be entertainment or games or something? Or are a meal and drinks enough? A: Holiday music is always a great way to bring out the holiday spirit. Classy, live music can add icing to a party, but prerecorded music, if carefully selected, is fine. Last year I had a couple of Christmas parties here that brought their own slideshows with pictures and music in them.
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Q: In this economy, people are still concerned about price. What are good ways to keep costs down? A: Three easy cost-saving tips are: order family/buffet style; have the holiday party at your office; and instead of a large turkey or roast, substitute a less expensive seafood, vegetarian, or even a chicken pasta dish. Q: What dishes work best at a holiday party? A: The food presentation is as important as the food itself, particularly at the holidays, so we make sure our food captures the holiday spirit. Our most popular holiday dishes are penne alla vodka with chicken and bell peppers in pink sauce, pollo parmigiana and our lasagna. Our penne pesto with chicken and our eggplant parmigiana are year-round favorites. Q: What kind of food service do you recommend? Buffet? Table seating? Family style? Something else? A: Buffet style is my recommendation for flexibility and cost savings, and large, family-style seating can be fun. The most we could handle for a sit-down event would be 50 people, although they could use the patio as well. Q: What is the most unique aspect or element you offer, whether
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18 Downtown News
Holiday Parties & Catering
September 12, 2011
Pumped to Party During the Holidays, the Los Angeles Athletic Club Isn’t Just a Place to Work Out by Ryan E. Smith
S
ince opening in 1880, the Los Angeles Athletic Club has set the standard for a private membership club and athletic facility. When a multi-million dollar hotel renovation was completed in 2009, it added a luxurious urban-chic style to the mix. Just don’t forget the food and the event rooms. Kelly Bland, the establishment’s catering sales manager, said the club can do everything from contemporary buffets to traditional sit-down affairs. The sports bar, which hosts events too, even has a dartboard for instant entertainment. Bullseye! Los Angeles Downtown News: What holiday party themes or trends will we be seeing this season? Kelly Bland: Expect fresh foods with a creative, modern twist. Another popular trend is having a second cocktail hour at around 10 p.m. with items like kobe beef sliders, fresh fries in cones and macaroons. Signature cocktails with fresh ingredients like ruby red grapefruit juice and high-end vodka, garnished with a sprig of mint, are very popular. Wine pairing with entrees is always in season. Q: People will read this and think that the holidays are months away. Is it really important to start booking now? Why? A: Companies that secure holiday parties now can start advertising to their employees and use it as something to look forward to. Another advantage is not
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photo by Gary Leonard
A key to a successful holiday party, says, Kelly Bland of the Los Angeles Athletic Club, is to stick to the magic number — the per-person budget.
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September 12, 2011
Downtown News 19
photo by Gary Leonard
Holiday Parties & Catering
One option for holiday parties is to set up carving stations of prime rib and turkey. They can even be served as mini sandwiches.
worrying about writing one big check at the end. Companies planning these events now can make payments. Q: In this economy, people are still concerned about price. What are good ways to keep costs down? A: Some ideas that have worked well include having drink tickets instead of a full hosted bar, and switching a dinner function to lunch or even a champagne brunch. Instead of a formal sit-down, have action stations. If you work in a company or organization with partners, try hosting one large party together. Scale down entertainment by using an iPod. Q: What dishes work best at a holiday party? A: ’Tis the season to enjoy turkey, prime rib, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing and cranberry sauce if you are looking for a traditional affair. The same concept can be made more contemporary by setting up carving stations of prime rib and turkey and serving them as mini sandwiches. Give traditional mashed potatoes a kick by adding a mashed potato martini bar where guests can add toppings like bay shrimp, minced blackened chicken, cheddar cheese, sour cream and chives. Q: What kind of food service do you recommend? Buffet? Table seating? Family style? Something else? A: For a formal presentation with awards, speeches and formalities, I would suggest a plated sit-down. Buffets are great for large parties because they provide an increased variety of food and encourage guests to mix and mingle. Family style is great for smaller parties as it offers a more intimate feeling. Action stations and passed hors d’oeuvres work for parties
right after work that are only for a few hours. Q: What is the most unique aspect or element you offer, whether a food choice, a room choice or something else? A: Our grand ballroom offers floor-to-ceiling drapes on our 40-foot ceilings, sparkly chandeliers and sconces on refinished wood pillars. Our rooftop deck has arguably the most impressive views of the Downtown skyline. Duke’s Sports Bar is available for events involving 30-80 people. And one of the most unique aspects of having a holiday party at LAAC is our 72-room hotel. Q: A lot of people feel that a work holiday party is something they’re obligated to attend. What element should someone include so that it’s actually fun? A: Get people involved by having skits. One of our clients does this every year and everyone has a great time. Games like “white elephant” gift exchanges are always fun. You can create your own musical entertainment to get guests off their feet and engaged. Q: Should there be entertainment or games or something? Or are a meal and drinks enough? A: If you schedule your party over a long period of time — more than four hours — I would definitely recommend some sort of entertainment. Also, night affairs do well with entertainment. Q: What’s the one thing every party planner should be sure to do when organizing an event? A: Always keep aware of your magic number, the per-person budget you want to stay at. This way you do not go over budget, and if you are under you can add more things to the party, like a second hors d’oeuvre hour or an upgraded bar. Q: Conversely, what’s the biggest mistake party planners make, and how can they avoid this? A: A challenge I’ve seen party planners work through is taking on the entire event by themselves. Set up a committee and delegate duties like staffing the check-in table and working with the entertainment. The Los Angeles Athletic Club is at 431 W. Seventh St., (213) 625-2211 or laac.com. For party planning, contact Bland at (213) 630-5287 or kelly.bland@laac.net.
Chaya Continued from page 16
photo courtesy Chaya
The restaurant at City National Plaza has a modern chic design, a 12-seat sushi bar and an outdoor patio surrounded by lush landscape.
should be sure to do when organizing an event? A: Party planners should think about what they want their guests to be talking about on their drive home from the event — from the great food, fun atmosphere and activities — and work backwards to create a memorable experience. It’s always important to be clear on the budget and work creatively with the event manager throughout the planning process. Q: Conversely, what’s the biggest mistake party planners make, and how can they avoid this? A: Not giving enough time to plan and allow guests to RSVP so that there is enough food and drinks to cover on the day of the party. Leaving the guests hungry without specifying that a party will be featuring light bites should also be avoided. Chaya Downtown is at 525 S. Flower St., (213) 236-9577 or thechaya.com/downtownlosangeles. For party planning, contact Asada at (213) 489-1889 or elaim@thechaya.com.
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20 Downtown News
September 12, 2011
Holiday Parties & Catering
Holy Mole Mas Malo Brings Authentic East L.A. Holiday Dishes to the Party by Ryan E. Smith
M
as Malo has been one of the big Downtown restaurant hits of 2011. It opened in January, and since day one crowds have come for the powerful margaritas and the East L.A-style Mexican food. Now it’s gearing up for its first full holiday party season. Executive chef Robert Luna is readying menus featuring simple, local, high-quality ingredients. They can be served in a room with 50-foot ceilings, or in a private tequila vault.
Los Angeles Downtown News: What holiday party themes or trends will we be seeing this season? Robert Luna: The trend is going to be more sustainable food as well as a more traditional style of food. At Mas Malo, we are doing a traditional East L.A. holiday menu: turkey and mole, a variety of tamales like pork and red chiles, vegetarian with roasted pasilla chiles and Monterey jack cheese, and a sweet one with pineapple and raisins. We’re also serving churros. Q: People will read this and think that the holidays are months
photo by Gary Leonard
Mas Malo Executive Chef Robert Luna uses his mom’s recipes for the enchiladas and tamales he’ll serve at holiday parties.
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Downtown News 21
Holiday Parties & Catering
photo by Gary Leonard
September 12, 2011
away. Is it really important to start booking now? Why? A: As of the first of September, restaurants and caterers go into holiday mode. If you’re not booked in to a place by November 15, you can expect to pay a premium for more desirable days of the week. Q: In this economy, people are still concerned about price. What are good ways to keep costs down? A: Plan your party on a weekday. Also if you can have it during the day, it’s a lot cheaper and most restaurants will give a little better price to fill the space.
The main floor of Mas Malo features turn-of-the-century architecture with 50-foot ceilings. It can hold more than 100 people.
Q: What dishes work best at a holiday party? A: For us at Mas Malo, enchiladas and tamales work best. Both are made with my mom’s recipes. Q: What kind of food service do you recommend? Buffet? Table seating? Family style? Something else? A: It depends on the kind of holiday party you are having. If it’s friends and family, then family style is great where you’re kind of comfortable sharing the same plates down the center of the table. If it’s business, then pre-set works best. Maybe everyone’s not familiar with each other, so there’s less stress on everyone to worry about serving or getting enough of this or that. If it’s an employee party, buffet is the way to go. There’s more mingling and people talking. Q: What is the most unique aspect or element you offer, whether a food choice, a room choice or something else? A: We offer traditional Boyle Heights-style cooking. It’s what we ate as second-generation, third-generation kids. We also offer unique settings for your party. The cantina, which is in the basement, has sofas and very much looks like someone’s den. There’s the main floor, where you’d have to have a bigger party of 100-plus. It’s the classical, Downtown, turn-of-the-century architecture with 50-foot ceilings. There’s the mezzanine with its own bar. It can fit 60-70 people. And there’s a fourth that’s a little bit more intimate. We have a private tequila vault from the former jewelry store we’re located in. We do tequila tastings and tequila pairings with food there.
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Q: A lot of people feel that a work holiday party is something they’re obligated to attend. What element should someone include so that it’s actually fun? A: Gift exchanges always help break the ice, and of course an open bar helps. Q: Should there be entertainment or games or something? Or are a meal and drinks enough? A: Again, it depends on the party. A DJ might add a little something special. Q: What’s the one thing every party planner should be sure to do when organizing an event? A: Offer everything that they can from valet to gift baskets. When people plan a party, it’s important to give them choices so that they have the best possible time. Q: Conversely, what’s the biggest mistake party planners make, and how can they avoid this? A: Not getting all the information up front as to what is expected and have a realistic estimate of the cost of the party. Cover all the bases prior to the event so that all the guests have to do is have a good time. Mas Malo is at 515 W. Seventh St., (213) 985-4332, malorestaurant.com. For party planning, contact Luna at masmalochef@gmail.com.
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Continued from page 17 ideal venue, booking early ensures a successful event. Q: Conversely, what’s the biggest mistake party planners make, and how can they avoid this? A: Waiting for the last minute to contact the caterer, not going over the desired food choices well ahead of time, and not following the theme, if there is one, can all lead to an unfortunate end. Olive Bistro and Catering is at 619 S. Olive St., (213) 327-1186 and olivebistrocatering.com. For party planning information, contact Akhavan at olivebistro@ hotmail.com.
F o r r e S e r vat i o N S , c o N ta c t 3 10 . 3 5 8 . 7 7 8 8 o r e m a i l G o r d o N r a m S ay w h @ l u x u r y r e S o r t S . c o m
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22 Downtown News
September 12, 2011
Holiday Parties & Catering
Last Blast at the Wilshire Grand Landmark Hotel Plans Its Final Holiday Party Season by RichaRd Guzmán
city EditoR t’s going to be a holiday season of mixed emotions for the events services team at the Wilshire Grand Hotel. After five decades in business, the hotel will shut down permanently at the end of the year. The landmark at the northwest corner of Seventh and Figueroa streets will then be torn down to make room for a two-tower complex. A 45-story, 560-room hotel is slated to open in 2015, and a second phase, a 65-story office building, will rise when the market recovers. Before the wrecking ball hits, the staff at the current 900-room hotel has plenty to worry about it. The events team may be the busiest of all, with more than 100
I
holiday parties and other happenings they are putting together for their final season. The managers responsible for leading the team, Executive Chef Daniel Fennessy, Margaret Fornesi, director of events services, and Marc Loge, director of public relations, spoke about the final holiday party season and recalled some of their most memorable events. Los Angeles Downtown News: What’s the mood in the department knowing this will be the last holiday party season? Wilshire Grand: Fennessy: It’s pretty much bittersweet I would say. We’ve had a great run, we’ve had a lot of fun and now we’ll be seeing this iconic hotel torn down. Fornesi: We’ve worked with the same
photo courtesy Wilshire Grand
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September 12, 2011
Downtown News 23 photo courtesy Wilshire Grand
Holiday Parties & Catering
Another choice is Seoul Jung, the Wilshire Grand’s Korean establishment.
photo by Gary Leonard
Wilshire Grand Executive Chef Daniel Fennessy and Margaret Fornesi, the hotel’s director of events services. They are working on their final season of holiday parties at the landmark hotel at Seventh and Figueroa streets. The building will be torn down to make way for a $1 billion, two-tower project.
clients for so many years. I’ve been here 13 years and a lot of our banquet personnel have been here upwards of 30 years, so when people came back to the hotel it’s like family coming home. Q: How many events do you have left until the end? Fornesi: For holiday parties, our Friday and Saturdays are all completely booked. Loge: But we are giving a very substantial discount on midweek parties just so that we can keep everybody working until the very end so they can home go with a nice holiday paycheck.
Popping the Cork at Holiday Parties for 84 Years!
BERNARD I.
FERNANDO G.
JOSE F.
ALBERTO O.
49 Years
49 Years
50 Years
39 Years
ANTONIA B.
LEONARDO C.
FRANCISCO P.
ALFREDO P.
39 Years
39 Years
38 Years
37 Years
JESUS R.
HENRIETTE E.
ISIDRO T.
JILL L.
37 Years
32 Years
31 Years
31 Years
JUAN H.
ALEX E.
JOEL P.
MICHAEL T.
31 Years
28 Years
28 Years
32 Years
Q: Will the events services team have a role in the new hotel? Loge: No, they won’t be coming back to the new hotel. Union employees are given an option whether they want to come back or not. As far as the management team goes, none of us are being given an option to come back. Q: What were some of your most memorable events? Fennessy: We did a wedding for a Polynesian royal family. It was 800 or so invited guests but they also decided that any Polynesian national in the area could come in and just sit around the perimeter and watch the wedding and the ceremony. We had two large buffets with Polynesian food. One of the items was a whole roasted pig. After all of the invited guests had gone through the host decided that they were going to let the people that had shown up and were sitting around the perimeter enjoy the food too. They had no tables, no silverware, no napkins. It was like an onslaught, you couldn’t stop them from eating. At the end we couldn’t find the head to the pig, so that was an unusual one. Q: Any other events that made a big impact? Fennessy: One that sticks out a lot is the gypsy funeral that we had here. It went on for three days. There were a lot of ceremonies, a lot of things I’ve never seen before. They made a table set-up in the ballroom in the shape of a large cross. The people, about 200 of them, were sitting around the cross and the, umm, main character, who was not there anymore, had his own, what I would call a throne almost. It was a very large chair and they put his empty suit in the chair. They had repeated ceremonies and meals and after three days, the person that was taking over put the suit on, whether it fit or not, and sat on the chair. This was a head of the gypsy clan that died. Q: What can you say to people who want to book one last holiday party at the Wilshire Grand? Loge: We’ll give them a special they can’t believe and we want to see everybody one last time. Fornesi: We want to encourage businesses to come in. We’re still a profitable hotel. We’re trying to remain so. Q: Do you know which party will be your final event? Fornesi: We have holiday parties planned for Dec. 17. We have six that day. Loge: And we’re taking our last guest on the 23rd. Q: Are you taking home any mementos from the hotel? Fennessy: Anything that will fit in my pockets, and I have big pockets. The Wilshire Grand is at 930 Wilshire Blvd. (213) 688-7777 or wilshiregrand.com. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.
IN MEMORIAM (1925-2010)
DOMINIQUE T.
RAYMOND T.
Chef
71 Years
1911 W. Sunset Boulevard (Echo Park) • Los Angeles CA 90026 Tel 213-484-1265 | Fax 213-484-0041 | www.TaixFrench.com
24 Downtown News
Holiday Parties & Catering
September 12, 2011
September 12, 2011
Downtown News 25
Holiday Parties & Catering
photo courtesy of Lydia Ramsey
Mind Your Business Etiquette The Rules of Behavior at Holiday Parties by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR
Y
ou put in long hours, take on extra projects, are on time and on point every day at work. You may be the model employee, but no matter how good you are at your job, it can all be ruined in one night if you act up at the company holiday party. Yes, it’s the night to celebrate and let your hair down a bit with your co-workers. But it’s still a work event, and there are rules you need to follow. Lydia Ramsey, a business etiquette expert and author of books such as Manners That Sell — Adding the Polish That Builds Profits and Lydia Ramsey’s Little Book of Table Manners talked with Los Angeles Downtown News about the do’s and never ever do’s of the holiday office soiree. Los Angeles Downtown News: What’s your advice about drinking at a holiday party? Lydia Ramsey: My best advice is to drink as little as possible and to know your capacity. Have maybe one or two glasses of wine but no more than that so that you don’t lose control of yourself. Q: Is it impolite to turn down a drink if you want to avoid alcohol altogether? A: It’s not impolite to turn down an alcoholic drink. In today’s world people are sensitive to this kind of thing. Once upon a time people looked down on it. And there are plenty of horror stories about someone who has too much to drink. People get into hot water with the boss, people start to hit on other people all of a sudden. Q: Does it matter how much you eat at a holiday party? A: My advice is if there’s gong to be food, have something to eat before you go so you’re not hungry, not starving, so that you don’t look like you came just to eat and drink. You don’t want to be seen piling food up on your plate. In a buffet line it may look make look inconsiderate with people behind you.
Q: What kind of conversations should you have at a corporate party? A: You really want to stay away from business conversations; it’s not the time to talk about business. You don’t want to get too personal, so talk about holiday plans, family plans.
Business etiquette expert Lydia Ramsey suggests limiting your drinking at a holiday party.
Q: Are there any taboo topics? A: Don’t start talking about office rumors. There are always the subjects you never want to get into — politics, religion. Q: What if someone starts complaining about work? A: Try to change the subject, or just nod but don’t really say anything. You have to be above that sort of thing. Q: What if the boss gets a little tipsy and starts being inappropriate? A: Make sure you handle yourself in an appropriate manner. He or she is the boss, so don’t try to fight it, just bear with it, listen and don’t comment. Or find the best moment to walk away and excuse yourself. But you don’t want to offend the boss no matter how offensive they are. Q: How should you dress? A: It depends on the kind of party, time of day and place. Hopefully someone in the invitation has indicated attire, although that can be confusing as well, like dressing country club casual — what is that? The best thing to do is make sure you look professional. Women in particular need to be more careful. Men are safe in a coat and tie. Women need to be in something professional, not sexy and revealing. Q: Could something you do at an office party really hurt your job? A: There are many stories of people whose behavior has been remembered for a very long time. They forgot it was about business, about their job and they show up Monday morning after the party and find out they don’t have a job. Q: If you mess up, do you apologize the next day at work?
A: It depends on the level of behavior. If you said something inappropriate to someone, address it with that person. If you got totally out of line go to the manager and address it. Q: Should you invite clients to the party? A: That depends. Some offices like to include their clients, since it can be a time to bond. In that case employees really, really need to be careful of their behavior; the client of course can behave however they want. But don’t bring a client unless clients are invited. Don’t bring guests that are not on the invitation. Don’t take your girlfriend if the invitation doesn’t say to bring a guest, and definitely don’t bring kids. Q: What should the party planner do to make the event as enjoyable as possible? A: They need to know what the tone, the atmosphere will be like, if it’s a more formal event or more casual. Q: Any other advice on being a polite guest? A: Be sure when you get to the party to address the host, who is usually the boss. And when you leave say goodbye and thank you. More of Ramsey’s advice on corporate manners are at mannersthatsell.com. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.
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26 Downtown News
September 12, 2011
Twitter/DowntownNews
HEALTH Eye of the Out-of-Shape Tiger A Reporter Tries to Survive a Downtown Boot Camp Workout by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR
T
here are two things I’m certain of after my workout with Extreme Boot Camp Downtown ends: 1) It’s 6:30 a.m., and 2) I can’t decide which part of my body
hurts the most. It could be my upper back, which feels like I gave Rambo a piggyback ride while he was firing an M-16. Or maybe it’s my shoulders and neck, which feel like Rambo also put me in a headlock while I was giving him that piggyback ride.
photo by Gary Leonard
The author runs through the streets as part of the Extreme Boot Camp Downtown experience.
GOOD SAM. GREAT DOCTORS.
Actually, I’m sure of three others things: 1) People do some horrible things to stay in shape, 2) No matter how much you suck it in, you can’t fool a scale, and 3) Drill sergeants are the world’s slowest counters. As part of the Downtown Challenge, where I take on different tasks and activities that are part of the fabric of the neighborhood, I decided to join a neighborhood workout program that doesn’t mess around. You’ve seen the boot camp workouts. People get up really early and join a group of masochists under the direction of military fatigues-clad trainers. The full Extreme Boot Camp Downtown program lasts six weeks with up to five one-hour weekly sessions in the Central City. Participants are provided with a booklet titled “The Survival Guide and Mess Log” that gives instructions on what and how to eat during boot camp. You’re supposed to fill out a daily log of what you consume. For most of my life I didn’t worry about staying in shape. That started to change when I had my second child. I want to be able to keep up with my kids when they’re running around the house or the park. It doesn’t seem right that a 4-year-old girl and her 9-month-old brother are faster than their father. I’m also lazy, so I knew I would need some motivation to get me going. Boot Camp sounded like a perfect solution. It seemed like a good idea at the time. Rated F The program actually starts a couple of days before the first workout. On a Saturday, I headed Downtown for a heartpounding experience: a weigh-in and fitness evaluation. I knew there was little chance I would do well during the evaluation. I might as well have been taking a calculus test that day. There was no way I was coming out with a passing grade. Sure enough, I got a solid F, as in Fat, even though I tried to cheat. When I stood on the scale I sucked my gut in a little, as if it would make any difference (it didn’t). At 5-feet 5-inches I came in at a whopping 231 pounds. Yikes, that’s like a heavyweight fighter, without the fighter part. As part of the program, the trainers recorded how many pushups and sit-ups you can do in two minutes. I pulled off a wimpy 16 pushups and 10 sit-ups. “That’s not too bad. We’ve seen worse,” said Beau Bruderer, who with Lerone McElrath helmed my class.
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Downtown News 27
Health
It turned out, this was the easy part. When my alarm clock rang at 4:45 a.m. Monday, I had already been awake for a solid minute, just enough time to remember the scene from Rocky where Sylvester Stallone drinks two raw eggs as the music rises in the background and he sets off on his training montage. That would be me today. I had the eye of the tiger, although in lieu of raw eggs I downed a gallon of coffee and two extrastrength five-hour energy drinks. I got to our exercise spot, a parking lot in South Park, at precisely 5:32 a.m. I was amazed to see that the 5:30 class had actually started at 5:30. I was told to grab a pair of eight-pound dumbbells and bring them to an exercise mat. I sprinted to a corner spot in the back of the class. I was amazed that 10 other masochists were already tasting the pain. We did a few spirited jumping jacks, then moved on to some other brutal exercises, like trying to touch our toes. This was followed by Satan’s favorite exercise, the lunge. I quickly worked up a good sweat. The eye of the tiger was strong. “OK, we’re done with the warm-up,” Beau said. “Warm up?” I responded loudly. “I thought we were already doing some hardcore exercises.” Sadly, I’m not making that up. I really said it. Worse, I really meant it. No one paid any attention to me. Eye of the tiger? More like Tiger Woods after the cheating scandal.
No Pain, No Gain The real exercises were a blur of pain, sweat and sneaky moves on my part. We did a lot of lifts with our dumbbells, and even though eight pounds doesn’t sound like much, the 25th time you raise them over your head, down to your shoulders and in front of your chest, they may as well weigh 800 pounds. We did sit-ups, leg lifts and some weird move where we stretched our legs out and back like a dog relieving itself in slow motion over and over. I’m not sure what muscles that worked out, but by the end I knew I could be the buffest dog in the dog park. Most of these exercises require repetitions, sometimes 25 repeats. This is where I learned that drill instructors like to count slooooow. By the time they hit 20, I could have counted to 60, been done and had enough time for a quick nap before the next move. But I guess it’s all to maximize the results.
There were variations of push-ups, squats and lunges. There were also no breaks whatsoever between the more than 30 exercises we did in one hour. “We want to keep the heart rate up,” Beau explained later. “You want to have a hardcore hour.” At one point I actually got excited. That was when I heard Beau order “nap time.” Then I realized he had actually said “abs time.” No pain, no gain, I guess. Fortunately, Lerone and Beau didn’t yell or get all in my face like a real drill instructor. They were tough but helpful, always looking for who was having trouble and ready to aid in a lift or pull. Still, after about 40 minutes, I was ready for a rest (actually, I was ready for a rest after about four minutes). I saw an opportunity when we ran around the block. I was in the back of the class as we came to a streetlight. The Don’t Walk sign began to flash and I convinced a couple of runners that we could get a see Workout, page 28
Rock and Roll And Run Half Marathon to Start and End in Downtown
T
here’s a reason avid runners and athletes of all kinds listen to music when they pound the pavement. Who doesn’t get pumped up by peppy beats, whether it’s Green Day, Iron Maiden or Survivor? On Oct. 30, more than 15,000 runners will take over 13 miles of Downtown streets, and they’ll all be rocking out, but none will be wearing headphones. Instead, they’ll find their inspiration from live bands that will
The race isn’t over until there’s a cure. Last year, 32,000 men died from prostate cancer and more than 217,000 new cases were diagnosed. Today, 2.2 million live with the disease.
Fight On.
photo by Charley Gallay
Last year’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Half Marathon ran through Los Feliz and Echo Park. This year, it rocks out entirely in Downtown.
line the streets, all leading to a finish-line concert full of power chords by Poison frontman Brett Michaels. Welcome to the Dodge Rock ‘n’ Roll Los Angeles Half Marathon. Back in Los Angeles for the second year, the race assembles dozens of local bands to rock out on the route, alongside cheer squads from regional schools. The race has moved entirely to Downtown after coursing through Los Feliz, Silver Lake and Echo Park in 2010. It starts at L.A. Live, juts down to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, circles back up Figueroa Street and ultimately makes its way east through Little Tokyo and over the Sixth Street Bridge. Then runners turn around and come back along the same route. They end where they started, with a finish line concert with Michaels. The race coincides with the Power Balance Health and Fitness Expo on Oct. 28-29 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. More than 60 exhibitors will offer free samples, showcase the latest in running gear, sports apparel, health and nutritional information. The marathon is part of a national race series produced by San Diego-based Competitor Group. The Los Angeles race benefits the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. For more information, or to register, visit runrocknroll. competitor.com/los-angeles.
Your contribution supports our race toward a cure for prostate cancer.
SUndAy novembeR 6, 2011 Register to run in the L.A. Prostate Cancer 5K
at Active.com or USCUrology.com or call (323) 865-3700
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September 12, 2011
Health
Workout Continued from page 27 break while waiting for the light to change. My philosophy was that if I was going to break the rules, I didn’t want to do it alone. It’s called being part of a team. Or maybe it’s called spreading the blame. Whatever the case, it didn’t last long — Beau appeared out of nowhere. “If you’re not running you’re doing jumping jacks,” he ordered. So we did jumping jacks as we waited for the light to change. After we circled the block we were told to lean against the wall. I though this meant rest, but no: We leaned straight against the wall and lowered ourselves to a 90-degree angle, as if we were sitting on an invisible chair. An invisible chair made of fire and thorns. While in that position, the instructors went through the group and asked us to say our name, state our goals and declare what we couldn’t eat as part of boot camp.
“I want to be healthy,” one person said. “No fast food,” another chirped. “My goal is not to die today,” I said when my turn came up. “And I won’t eat anything that tastes good.” We finished with some pushups, which I failed at horribly. I ended up doing them on my knees while everyone else seemed to catch their second wind and closed out the session strong. Still, the instructors encouraged us to do as many as we could. We would get better with time, they promised. That was one of the cool things about Boot Camp. They’re not screaming at you or shaming you. They know how hard this is, and their goal is to motivate rather than scare you into shape. I just wish they could learn to count a little faster. Extreme Boot Camp Downtown L.A. is at (213) 610-3233 or extremebootcamp.com. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.
photo by Gary Leonard
The 5:30 a.m. boot camp class is led by Beau Bruderer and Lerone McElrath. It’s an hour of nonstop, hardcore exercise. ©2011 All rights reserved. Essure is a registered trademarks of Conceptus, Inc.
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Come Celebrate With Us on Saturday Sept 17
$5 Yoga Classes All Day 5 classes to choose from: 8:30am, 10:30am, 12noon, 2pm and 4:30pm
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400 S Main St. (San Fernando Lobby), Los Angeles, CA 90013, Next to Pete’s Cafe • 213-620-1040 $2 validated parking in the garage across the street at 425 S Main See website for more details at yogacircledowntown.com
Life happens.... it’s what you do with it that counts! introducing the Los angeles center for Women’s health. a comprehensive facility dedicated to women in the prime of their lives. our world class specialists specialize in you. so you can do what counts in life, whatever happens.
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September 12, 2011
Downtown News 29
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CALENDAR
Widow You Know
East West Players opens its season this week with A Widow of No Importance, a comedy about an older woman who falls in love with a younger man. photo by Gary Leonard
East West Players Launches Season With a Tale of Amour AUGUST 29 Between an Older Woman and a Much Younger Man
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Little Tokyo’s East West Players. Last year the theater company celebrated its 45th season with a lineup of plays that included frontal nudity and a production about a senior citizen with a secret life as a porn star. It was part of the troupe’s effort to draw younger audiences, and was a daring departure for a company known for producing musicals and plays usually about the AsianAmerican experience. The new season’s theme is “Languages of Love,” and once again includes the familiar musicals and relatively tame productions. However, there’s still an edge, and it is apparent in the opening, not-so-safe but humorous play about an older woman-younger man romance. A Widow of No Importance opens Wednesday, Sept. 14. “Last year we shook things up with plays that jolted the audis townNewfor ence,” said Tim Dang, producing East West .A.Downdirector /Lartistic cebook.com Fa Players. “This year we want to continue bringing new adventures that have a softer tone but still offer new experiences.” Widow, written by Shane Sakhrani, takes a comedic look at a traditional woman in a conservative society who falls for a younger man after her husband dies. “It’s a taboo in Indian culture and a taboo that is also very universal,” Sakhrani said. “It’s also a romantic comedy so I hope the audience will laugh.” Dang said attendance increased last season by about 10%. The audience included many EWP subscribers as well as a
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younger crowd attracted by the more risqué material. Dang is Sept. “She’s Starts 2 a privileged woman and a lot of her misery is selfcounting on them to return this year. imposed,” Vaaz said. “She feels like society is demanding this “We’re crossing our fingers,” he said. of her, but because she’s well-off, it makes it easier for her to The opening play runs through Oct. 9. Also on the roster break these taboos.” this season are November’s The Language Archive, about a The inspiration for the story came to Sakhrani from a relalinguist who can’t express his love for his wife and ends up tive he barely knew. The 32-year-old, who was born in Hong losing her, and February’s Three Year Swim Club, the story Kong to Indian parents, recalled his grandmother whose husof Soichi Sakamoto, who trained athletes in Maui to swim in band had died. In every picture Sakhrani can remember, she hopes of reaching the Olympics. The season closes with an was dressed in white and looked miserable. EWP staple Our whenWebsite the company to musical vision“It made me want to question the idea of what it is like to Check foragain Fullgoes Movie Listings LADowntownNews.com ary Stephen Sondheim. Their version of his A Little Night be a widow, because in India once you’re a widow, you’re not Music runs in May. expected to be happy anymore,” he said. “There’s still no one “We’re going to look at how we express love with differ- telling them it’s OK to be happy.” ent kinds of languages,” Dang said. “What we think of as While the comedy features a melodramatic character enlanguage could be spoken or expressed through behavior and gulfed in self-pity, it is also grounded in a reality that trannot necessarily be love for another person but a passion, a scends cultures, Vaaz said. movement, a cause, love of a career or even swimming.” “The Starts Sept. 9 privileged widow, the bratty daughter, these are Personal Touch people we all know,” he remarked. Directed by Shaheen Vaaz, and employing a few The play is also a good way to become more familiar with Bollywood-style dance numbers, the production follows the stories from Southeast Asia, which is a goal this year for East story of Deepa, a well-to-do woman who has been a widow West Players, Dang said. Sakhrani agreed, noting that a lot of for two years. stories from that part of the world need to be told, and that Following tradition, the 50-something has been in continu- doing so will help different cultures live side by side. ous mourning and hasn’t left the house since her husband Even if the different “cultures” living side by side are an died. One of her only remaining goals is to marry off her older woman and a much younger man. daughter. That would allow her to die in peace. A Widow of No Importance runs through Oct. 8 at the Check Our Website for Full Listings LADowntownNews.com Her traditional world unravels whenMovie she starts falling for David Henry Hwang Theater, 120 Judge John Aiso St. (213) her son’s best friend, two decades younger than her. He also 625-7000 or eastwestplayers.org. professes his love for her. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.
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September 12, 2011
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WHAT’S IN STORE
Caveman Vintage Music A Superstitious Keyboard, Rare Guitars and Vinyl Treasures in a Chinatown Shop by Ryan Vaillancourt staff writer
T
here are a few ways one might discover Caveman Vintage Music, a nearly two-month-old instrument and vinyl record store in Chinatown. There’s the Internet, as well as word-of-mouth in the collector community. Then there is the very likely scenario of ambling past Caveman on the way to, or from, the Spring Street Smokehouse next door. Chances are passersby will hear some sweet tunes wafting out the door of the store at 650 N. Spring St. It could be, say, a 1960s recording of the brother guitar duo Santo and Johnny, or perhaps it’s just a talented customer trying out one of the nearly two dozen vintage guitars. The shop caters to musicians and audiophiles of all kinds. It’s half instrument store and repair shop, half vinyl record depot, with a pinch of vintage oddities — they’re currently hawking a working Atari system with a few dozen games. Wall of Strings: The “Caveman” in the name is a nod to co-owners Justin Slater and Eric Stollsteimer’s shared passion for all things old and, in some cases, extinct in music. Slater worked for six years heading up the vintage guitar department at the Hollywood Guitar Center. Indeed, the vintage guitars are the centerpiece of the shop. Some are on consignment and the rest were purchased for resale. Slater and Stollsteimer also buy instruments.
There are old guitars of all kinds: acoustics, solid and hollow-body electrics, and extremely rare varieties like the 1935 Rickenbacker Bakelite guitar. The instrument, one of the first electric guitars ever made, comes with a case that has a built-in amplifier. It goes for $3,000. In an age where consumers are increasingly abandoning brick and mortar retailers, Slater said quality instruments will always require physical shops — patrons need to physically pick them up and pluck their strings. “There’s such a personal connection with instruments,” Slater said. “I can pick up a guitar in a store and know right away, from the way it sounds and feels that, ‘This is my guitar.’ You don’t get that looking at a computer screen.” That Deep Sound: One of the first items customers see when they walk in the door is a 1952 Kay M-1 upright bass, a dark caramel colored instrument with all the curves of a mid-century pin-up. Unlike most upright basses today, which are played with steel strings (just like most violins and other orchestra string instruments), this Kay bass sticks with the true-to-the-era catgut strings, which are fabricated from livestock innards and were standard until about the 1960s. The bass would be equally at home in a honky-tonk band as a jazz combo, or any other setting where the musician is going for the sound of a bygone era. The price is $2,950.
photo by Ryan Vaillancourt
Justin Slater co-owns Caveman Vintage Music, which stocks unique instruments like this 1952 M-1 Kay upright bass.
Moog-stitious: What is that sound in Stevie Wonder’s funk rhapsody “Superstition,” you ask? The one not too distant from a chorus of croaking bullfrogs? That would be the Hohner C Clavinet, a ’60s era electric keyboard whose sound will forever be linked with the Wonder hit. The Clavinet is one of several keyboard instruments in the shop. There are two 88key Fender Rhodes keyboards, going for $850 and $1,299, and the keyboard that ushered
in a new era of weird sounds and electronic music, the Moog, is there too. The so-called Minimoog Vol. D goes for $3,200. Mr. Fix It: Slater said he hopes Caveman will become a community hub. That’s partly why he offers guitar lessons at the shop, and why there’s a full-service repair facility inhouse. The repair operation is helmed by see Caveman, page 40
September 12, 2011
Downtown News 31
DowntownNews.com
LISTINGS EVENTS SPONSORED LISTINGS Friday Night Flicks Pershing Square, 532 S. Olive St., laparks.org/ pershingsquare Sept. 2: The weekly outdoor film series presents Saturday Night Fever. Nineteen-year-old Brooklyn native Tony Manero lives for Saturday nights at the local disco, where he’s king of the club, thanks to his stylish moves on the dance floor. But outside of the club, things don’t look so rosy. Free Downtown Audio Walking Tours Various Locations, crala.org/art. Free audio walking tours and maps are available for download at crala.org/art. Explore Downtown’s Bunker Hill, Financial District, Historic Core and Little Tokyo neighborhoods by discovering public art and places developed through the CRA/LA Art Program.
saTurday, sepTember 17 Mid-Autumn Moon Festival Chinatown Central and West Plazas, 943 N. Broadway, (213) 680-0243 or chinatownla.com. 5 p.m.-Midnight: The harvest moon is upon us, so shuffle on up to Chinatown for food trucks, kung fu and traditional Chinese celebrations. Free.
ROCK, POP & JAZZ Bootleg Bar 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org. Sept. 12, 8:30 p.m.: Glittery dark wave meets spacey echoes as Spero headlines a bill featuring Big Moves, United Ghosts and Maston. Sept. 13, 8:30 p.m.: We Are Augustines peddle their tight-knit, groovy indie rock. These three kind souls were brave enough to venture out from Brooklyn to play with Kiev and My Goodness. Sept. 14, 10 p.m.: Chadwick Stokes is best known as the haunting crooner for Dispatch, but this guy’s little slice of indie Americana is drawing in the crowds solo. He’ll be playing a benefit for the Calling All Crows women’s help organization with The White Buffalo. Sept. 15, 9 p.m.: Silky, slinky and so easy on the ears, the Robotanists’ shiny pop rock breathes life into a sublime collage of genres. Baron Von Luxxury and Sleeping Bags hold down the opening slots. Sept. 16, 9 p.m.: Jason Diaz is an axe wielding singer songwriter who’s a little bit Motown, a little bit gospel and a little bit Hendrix. He’ll be packing his Robert Johnson looks on stage to open for Big Dick and Muddy Reds alongside Kyle Nicolaides. Sept. 17, 9 p.m.: Low-end shakers and melancholy harmonizers Delta Mirror rumble through with The Child and Dream Tapes. Sept. 18, 8 p.m.: Jerry Borge. Club Nokia 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or clubnokia.com. Sept. 13, 8 p.m.: The Country Music Hall of Fame hosts its All for the Hall Fundraiser featuring Zac Brown, Sheryl Crow, Vince Gill and Friends. Yee-haw. Exchange LA 618 S. Spring St., (213) 627-8070 or exchangela.com.
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I
n 1924, Mexican artist Miguel Covarrubias moved to New York City. Surrounded by the intellectual and artistic elite of the Harlem Renaissance, he synthesized a unique blend of Latin style and the spirit and subject matter of the local scene. The warm tones and modern lines of his art are featured in the California African-American Museum exhibit The African Diaspora in the Art of Miguel Covarrubias: Driven by Color, Shaped by Cultures. It opened Sept. 1 and, through next February, offers visitors a broad display of Covarrubias’ work, including a number of pieces being shown for the first time in the United States. At 600 State Dr., Exposition Park, (213) 744-7432 or caamuseum.org.
Three
photo by Reiko Otsuki
Common Central Library, 630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7550 or lfla.org. 7 p.m.: Award winning musician and actor Common joins Kevin Frazier, co-host of CBS’s “The Insider.” The hip-hop artist will discuss his new memoir. Tickets for the event are long gone.
Sometimes you fall in love with your soul mate at first glance, or in the case of Tatiana in Tchaikovsky’s romantic opera Eugene Onegin (shown here), sometimes you write one little love letter that sprouts into a star-crossed romance that climaxes in a soul-wrenching duel. Yikes. James Conlon conducts the L.A. Opera’s season opening performance of the work on Saturday, Sept. 17, at 7 p.m. at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Included in the cast are young heavy hitters Oksana Dyka and Dalibor Jenis. The show goes through Oct. 9. Also debuting, on Sunday at 2 p.m., is Mozart’s comic opera Cosi Fan Tutte. Big credit to whichever opera marketing whiz came up with the poster-adorning line “Keep your fiancée close, and her sister closer.” At 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-8001 or losangelesopera.com.
photo by Clive Barda
Friday, sepTember 16
c
Haile Selassie and Joe Louis, 1935. Prints and Photographs Divsion, Library of Congress, Washington, DC. Covarrubias-Vanity Fair-Conde Nast Archive. Copyright Conde Nast
Thursday, sepTember 15 Social Media 2.0 City National Bank Plaza, 515 S. Flower St., (213) 312-9460 or townhall-la.org. 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m.: Town Hall-Los Angeles presents a panel discussion on how social media networks are transforming industries and how companies connect with consumers. Odds are someone will mention Facebook or Twitter. Alexandra Fuller At Central Library, 630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7550 or lfla.org. 7 p.m.: Fuller, whose emotionally poignant memoir of her African upbringing Don’t Lets Go to the Dogs Tonight received widespread praise, returns to African in Cocktail Hour Under the Tree of Forgetfulness. She talks about the book with Aloud curator Louise Steinman.
or
it .com stings eD Johnson, liar@downtownnews by Dan alend
Fuzjko Hemming was already a virtuoso piano player when, in 1971, on the eve of what was to be her most important recital yet, she went deaf. But the Berlin-born master remained undeterred. Forty years later, Hemming is a renowned solo concert pianist. The Colburn School’s Zipper Hall hosts Hemming on Saturday, Sept. 17, at 7 p.m. Tickets are limited for this intimate performance. At 200 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-2200 or colburnschool.edu.
The Central Library’s Aloud series is back, with one of its best line-ups ever. There are two events this week, starting Thursday, Sept. 15, when Alexandra Fuller discusses her Cocktail Hour Under the Tree of Forgetfulness, about her return to Africa. She’ll be talking with Aloud curator Louise Steinman. The next night, hip-hop icon and street poet laureate Common talks about his new memoir One Day It’ll All Make Sense. His uplifting and scathing verses embody and inform modern urban consciousness, and have earned him legions of fans along with the strong rebukes of Fox News. Both happenings are at 7 p.m. Reservations for Common are full, so other attendees will be on standby. At 630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7500 or lfla.org.
Disco will never die. So surrender and join a throng of unabashed Hustle aficionados in Pershing Square on Friday, Sept. 16, for a screening of Saturday Night Fever. Bask in the glow of dancing machine John Travolta bedecked in an iconic white bell-bottom leisure suit and rampaging through bits of the finest disco choreography ever set to film. You’ll be cheering for Tony Manero as he beats his dead end life into submission through sheer dancing prowess alongside the lovely Stephanie Mangano. You can try to fight it, but your body will likely explode into spastic fits of uncontrollable arm flailing and twisting as disco slowly envelops your mind. Seriously, this will happen. The film screens after darkness falls at 532 S. Olive St., (213) 847-4970 or laparks. org/pershingsquare.
Send information and possible Don’t Miss List submissions to calendar@downtownnews.com.
32 Downtown News
Dance Theater Scheherazade
Listings Sept. 15, 9 p.m.: Paper Ships presents Gavin Russom, Blondes, Jacques Renault, the Cosmic Kids, Goddollars and Guns in the Sun. Las Perlas 107 E. Sixth Street, (213) 988-8355 or lasperlas.la Sept. 14, 9 p.m.: Becky Stark kicks out the jazz with Bunny Love. Los Angeles Theatre Center 514 S. Spring St., (213) 489-0994 or grandperformances.org Sept. 15, 7 and 9:15 p.m.: A Congolese and international music mélange courtesy of the tricycle riding, polio-affected Staff Benda Bilili. Redwood Bar and Grill 316 W. Second St., (213) 652-4444 or theredwoodbar. com. All shows at 8 p.m. Sept. 13: Sinister horror punk from Sinner Sinners with a little help from Deadbeat Vultures, Death on the Radio and Brainspoon. Sept. 15: Lo-fi indie quartet Basement Babies jams their way through a lovely set with help from Naked Kids and 3ft Total Control. Sept. 16: Eddie Spaghetti used to helm The Supersuckers. These days this punk metal maven is playing solo. Opening are Motochrist and Sweet Justice. Sept. 18: A very special evening with White Murder, La Bestia and Blank Expressions — a lineup that sounds very much like a Manson family weekend itinerary. Senor Fish 422 E. First St., (213) 625-0566 or senorfish.net. Sept. 12, 7:30 p.m.: Enjoy an evening of jazz from sax player Javier Vergara. Seven Grand 515 W. Seventh St., (213) 614-0737 or sevengrand.la. All shows at 10 p.m. Sept. 12: The Katisse Buckingham Quintet brings its sax heavy jazz musings. Sept. 13: Beyond a shadow of a doubt, groovy house band The Makers is playing this Tuesday. Sept. 14: Adam Schoroeder is a sax master, but not your typical sax master. He plays the baritone sax, which for those following at home is both larger and deeper than your typical tenor sax. The Smell 247 S. Main St., alley between Spring and Main streets, thesmell.org. Sept. 14: Those wholesome kids from Newhall, Pangea host a record release show with Audacity and Mikal Cronin. Sept. 17: Radio Therapy presents The Body, Braveyoung, Street Buddy and more. The Varnish 118 E. Sixth St., (213) 622-9999 or thevarnishbar.com. Sept. 12, 9 p.m.: Jamie Elman tinkles the house ivories. Sept. 13, 8 p.m.: Jazzman pianist Mark Bosserman entertains.
photo by Jose Diaz
Continued from previous page
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EDCAT’s annual three-week New Original Works, or NOW, festival continues this week with choreographer Rosanna Gamson’s Layla Means Night on Sept. 15-18 at 8:30 p.m. Gamson takes Scheherazade, the cunning bride from One Thousand and One Nights, and makes it the core of a dance-theater divertissement. It’s set to a live score by musicians Houman Pourmehdi and Pirayeh Pourafar. Let’s see how she choreographs Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves. At REDCAT, 631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org.
Downtown Independent 2019 or californiasciencecenter.org. 251 S. Main St., (213) 617-1033 or Through October 6: A sweeping portrait of the downtownindependent.com. history, culture and religion of the Arabian PeninSept. 16, 7 p.m.: It’s a double feature of The Lost sula, Arabia 3D is a mix of contemporary scenes of Boys and The Goonies. Best of all it’s a “Drink-Along modern-day Arabian life, epic historical recreations With Beer Pong.” There’s no Rocky Road promised, of ancient civilizations and stunning digital visual but play your cards right, down enough suds and by effects, shot at more than twenty locations across the end of the night maybe Sloth will look normal. Saudi Arabia. Also through October 6: Born to be Sept. 17, 8 p.m.: Frogtown by C. Andrew Hall Wild 3D is an inspiring story of love, dedication and screens. A young woman indulges in some old hab- the remarkable bond between humans and animals. its and afterwards passes out in an alley. When she It documents orphaned orangutans and elephants wakes, she finds in her pocket a strange Polaroid. It and the people who rescue and raise them. is of herself, lying beneath a man she has never seen Regal Cinema L.A. Live before. Hate when that happens. 1000 W. Olympic Blvd., (877) 835-5734 or lalive.com. Flagship Theatres University Village Through September 15: Bucky Larson: Born 3323 S. Hoover St., (213) 748-6321 or to Be a Star (12, 2:20, 4:40, 7:10 and 9:40 p.m.); flagshipmovies.com. Contagion (11:50 a.m. and 1:30, 2:30, 4:20, 5:10, Through Sept. 15: Contagion (12, 2:30, 5, 7:30 7:10, 8, 10:20 and 11 p.m.); Warrior (12:40, 3:50, 7 and 10 p.m.); Bucky Larson: Born to Be a Star and 10:10 p.m.); Apollo 18 (12:50, 3:10, 5:20, 7:50 (1, 3:20, 5:40, 8 and 10:20 p.m.); Shark Night 3D and 10:10 p.m.); Saving Private Perez (1:20 and 4 (12:45, 3, 5:15, 7:30 and 9:45 p.m.). p.m.); Shark Night 3D (12:20, 2:50, 5:20, 7:40 and Sept. 16 Partial: Straw Dogs. 10 p.m.); The Debt (1:10, 4:10, 6:50 and 9:30 p.m.); Friday Night Flicks Colombiana (12, 2:30, 5, 7:40 and 10:20 p.m.); Pershing Square 532 S. Olive, or laparks.org/ Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark (12:10, 2:40, 5:10, 7:50 California African American Museum pershingsquare. and 10:30 p.m.); Our Idiot Brother (12:10, 2:40 and 600 State Dr., (213) 744-7432 or caamuseum.org. Sept. 16, 8 p.m.: It may be Friday night, but that’s 4:50 p.m.); 30 Minutes or Less (10 p.m.); The Help Sept. 18, 2 p.m.: CAAM presents Standing on My no excuse not to indulge in Saturday Night Fever. (12:50, 4, 7:30 and 10:40 p.m.); Rise of the Planet missing Sister’s Shoulders. Director/writer Laura Lipson and The iconic bit ofofdisco dramasales features John Travolta of the Apes (1:40, 4:20, 7:20 and 9:50 p.m.); Crazy, producer Joan Sadoff’s 2002 film takes on the Civil boogying like never before amidst a sonic wonder- Stupid, Love (12:40, 3:40, 6:40 and 9:20 p.m.). opportunities? Rights movement in Mississippi in theJuggling ’50s andtoo ’60s land of BeeGees hits. September 16 Partial Listing: Drive (12:30, 3, We’ve got got the solution. Juggling too manytoo projects, We’ve got the solution. many projects, deadlines and vendors? Let projects, deadlines and We’ve the solution. Juggling many vendors? Let andall vendors? Let PIP manage the creation and from the point of of the itdeadlines IMAX Theater 5:30, 8 communiand 10:30 p.m.); The Lion King 3D (11:40 PIPview manage thewomen creationwho andlived re-ordering of of the your business communiPIP manage creation and re-ordering of all of your business We’ve got the solution. Juggling too many projects, and vendors? Let We’ve got solution. Juggling too many deadlines and vendors? Let re-ordering of allthe ofdeadlines your business In projects, and emerged as its grassroots leaders. California Science Center, 700 State Drive, (213) andresources 2:10,Let 4:50, 7:30 and 10:10 p.m.); Straw cations. one location, your PIP bring together allcommuni-cations. the resources cations. Inthe location, your PIP bring744togethera.m. all the We’ve gotInthe solution. Juggling tooconsultants many We’ve projects, deadlines solution. and Juggling vendors? tooconsultants many Let and vendors? one location, your PIP consultants bring together all the projects, PIP manage the creation and re-ordering ofgot all ofone your business communiPIP manage the creation and re-ordering of all ofdeadlines your business communiyou need, including: you need, including: Dogs (12, 2:30, 5:10, 7:50 and 10:40 p.m.). resources need, including: PIP manage thelocation, creationyour and PIP re-ordering PIP manage ofyouall ofone the your creation business andcommunire-ordering of all of your business communications. In one consultants bring together allyour the resources cations. In location, PIP consultants bring together all the resources
Cosi Fan Tutte L.A. Opera, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-8001 or losangelesopera.com. Sept. 18, 2 p.m.: It’s the magic of Mozart in a romantic comic opera, the second half of L.A. Opera’s opening repertoire. The plot concerns two men who go undercover to see if their women will be faithful. Mad opera props to whoever came up with the poster phrase “Keep you fiancée close, and her sister closer.” Yeah, we said mad opera props. Through Oct. 8. Magic Strings The Bob Baker Marionette Theater, 1345 W. First St., (213) 250-9995 or bobbakermarionettes.com. Open-ended run, Tuesday-Friday (10:30 a.m.), Saturday and Sunday (2:30 p.m.): In Magic Strings, more than 100 of Bob Baker’s fantastical marionettes appear in an hour-long variety revue. After the performance, guests are invited to have refreshments in the Party Room. New Original Works Festival 2011 REDCAT Theatre Sept. 15, 16 and 17 (8:30 p.m.): The annual threeweek NOW Festival features eight genre-bashing pieces by Los Angeles dance, theater, music and multimedia artists. This week’s performances include Robert Cucuzza’s Cattywampus and Rosanna Gamson/World Wide’s Layla Means Night. Poor Behavior Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., 213.628.2772 or centertheatregroup.org. Sept. 13-17, 8 p.m.; Sept. 18, 2:30 p.m.; Sept. 19, 1 and 6:30 p.m.: A weekend in the country turns into a high stakes game of marital mixed doubles. It’s a • Printing • Signs, posters and banners • Signs, posters and banners • Printing world premiere from Tony Award-winner Doug cations. one location, your PIP consultants cations. bring Inincluding: one location, allyour the resources PIPprinting consultants all the resources you need,Inincluding: you need, • Copying • Digital printing • Digital printing • Copying bring together Printing • Copying • together Graphic design • Digital We’ve got the solution. Juggling too many projects, deadlines and vendors? Let •• Printing •• Signs, posters and banners • Printing •• Signs, you need, including: you need, including: Graphic design Online Online posters orderingand banners Hughes (Doubt). Through Oct. 16. Signs, posters and bannersordering • Online ordering• Graphic design PIP manage the creation and re-ordering of all of your business communiCopying Digital posters printing Copying Digital posters printing and banners • Signs, and banners • Printing • Signs, 700 Wilshire Blvd. • Printing 700 Wilshire Blvd. Ensemble: Graphic design Online printing ordering Graphic design Online printing ordering • Copying • Digital • Copying • Digital cations. In one location, yourThe PIPVault consultants bring Unlocked together all the resources ph:700 213-489-2333 fax: 213-489-2897 ph:700 213-489-2333 fax:ordering 213-489-2897 Wilshire Blvd. • Graphic Blvd. • Graphic design Los Angeles Theatre Center, 514 S. Spring St., (213) designWilshire • Online • Online Eugene ordering Onegin you need, including: • Printing posters and banners Wilshire Blvd. Wilshire Blvd. piparco@sbcglobal.net piparco@sbcglobal.net ph:700 213-489-2333 fax: 213-489-2897 ph:700 213-489-2333 fax: 213-489-2897 L.A. Opera, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-8001 or 489-0994 or thelatc.org. •• Signs, • Copying Digital printing 700 Wilshire Blvd. | 213-489-2333 | piparco@sbcglobal.net ph: 213-489-2333 fax: 213-489-2897 ph: 213-489-2333 fax: 213-489-2897 losangelesopera.com. Sept. 15-17, 9 p.m.: When a prominent real piparco@sbcglobal.net piparco@sbcglobal.net • Graphic design • Online ordering piparco@sbcglobal.net piparco@sbcglobal.net 700 Wilshire Sept. 17, 7:30 p.m.: The most beloved and ro-Blvd. estate developer ends up dead, a tapestry of sto213-489-2333 fax: 213-489-2897 mantic of all Russian operasph: kicks off the L.A. Opera ries are discovered immersed deep in the heart of piparco@sbcglobal.net season. The Tchaiskovsky work features sumptuous Downtown Los Angeles. From the mouths, eyes orchestration with James Conlon at the helm and a and ears of business owners, loft dwellers, baristas, cast of exciting young performers including inter- food vendors, and street people, an intricate world national sensations Oksana Dyka and Dalibor Jenis. unfolds, prompting the question: Who killed Ron Continues through Oct. 9. Dillinger?
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DowntownNews.com
African American Firefighter Museum 1401 S. Central Ave., (213) 744-1730 or aaffmuseum.org. Ongoing: An array of firefighting relics dating to 1924, including a 1940 Pirsch ladder truck, an 1890 hose wagon, uniforms from New York, L.A. County and City of L.A. firefighters, badges, helmets, photographs and other artifacts. Annette Green Perfume Museum FIDM, second floor, 919 S. Grand Ave., (213) 6241200 or fidmmuseum.org. Ongoing: One of a kind, the museum is dedicated to enhancing our understanding of the art, culture and science of the olfactory. Originally opened in New York City in 1999, the collection — 2,000 bottles, perfume presentations and documentary ephemera dating from the late 1800s to the present — was donated to FIDM in 2005. Also, “High Style: Perfume and the Haute Couture” features a selection of fragrance bottles and packaging that reflect the many ways that fame inspires design. Images of Men: A Look Through Fragrance is a new installation in the Annette Green Fragrance Archive. The bottles and accessories explore how men’s diverse identities and roles are conveyed through the changing designs of the bottles themselves. California African American Museum 600 State Drive, (213) 744-7432 or caamuseum.org. Through Nov. 6: Women: Game Changers, Less Known, Here Celebrated. From inventors and high achievers peering through microscopes to writers of headlines and verse, these are, and were, female mavericks who walked outside the lines. Many of these triumphs have been lost in the mist of time — names not in headlines, and faces faded into the background. CAAM celebrates these game changers. Ongoing: The multi-functional Gallery of Discovery offers visitors the opportunity to connect with the lineage of their own family, engage in artistic workshops, educational tours and other programs of historical discoveries. Hear recordings of actual living slaves from the Library of Congress archives and discover stories from the past. California Science Center 700 State Drive, (323) 724-3623 or californiasciencecenter.org. Through Dec. 31: 1001 Inventions is a traveling international exhibition that promotes awareness
Mondo Congo image courtesy Grand Performances
MUSEUMS
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fter a wildly successful European tour, Staff Benda Bilili hits the Los Angeles Theatre Center on Thursday, Sept. 15, for a two-night stand. Cuban-influenced rumba, rhythm and blues, reggae, spectacularly customized tricycles, a handmade, electric one string lute, and an eclectic mix of other instruments play essential roles in the sound and story of this group of Congolese musicians affected by polio. It’s co-presented by Grand Performances. Shows are at 7 and 9:15 p.m. At 514 S. Spring St., (213) 489-0994 or grandperformances.com.
of scientific and cultural achievements from the “Golden Age” of Muslim civilization during the 7th to 17th centuries from a diverse region stretching from Spain through China. Through interactive displays, explore basic science principles in such fields as optics, time-keeping, hydraulics, navigation, architecture and math. Ongoing: Science in Toyland presents physics through favorite kids toys. This hands-on exhibit engages museum visitors with dominos, sails and roller coasters in a fun, but informational primer on friction, momentum and chain reactions. Ongoing: The Science Center’s permanent exhibits are usually interactive and focus on human innovations and inventions as well as the life processes of living things. The lobby Science Court stays busy with the High Wire Bicycle, a Motion-Based Simulator, the Ecology Cliff Climb and Forty Years of Space Photography. The human body is another big focus:
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The Life Tunnel aims to show the connections between all life forms, from the single-celled amoeba to the 100-trillion-celled human being. The new Ecosystems exhibit explores how life on our planet is shaped by geophysical and biological processes. Chinese American Museum 425 N. Los Angeles St., (213) 485-8567 or camla.org. Through Dec. 18: Dreams Deferred: Artists Respond to Immigration Reform showcases local artists exploring the tensions, repercussions, hopes and dreams of immigrant communities in the face of new immigration legislation, through a broad spectrum of art including street art, graffiti art, sculptures, painting and multimedia installations. Through Jan. 31: To commemorate its100th anniversary, Remembering Angel Island will showcase historic photographs, a reproduction of a poem carved on the barracks of Angel Island, artifacts and a multi-media station featuring personal stories of
those who endured or were profoundly affected by the Angel Island experience. Permanent: Re-creation of the Sun Wing Wo, a Chinese general store and herbal shop, and Journeys: Stories of Chinese Immigration, an exhibit exploring Chinese immigration to the United States with an emphasis on community settlement in Los Angeles. Outlined into four distinct time periods, each is defined by an important immigration law and/or event, accompanied by a description and a personal story about a local Chinese American and their experiences in that particular historical period. El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument 124 Paseo de la Plaza, (213) 485-8372 or elpueblo. lacity.org. Ongoing: The whole of El Pueblo is called a “monument,” and of this monument’s 27 historic buildings, four function as museums: the Avila Adobe,
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34 Downtown News
The Out-of-It Dodgers Shut Down Ethier Los Angeles Dodgers Dodger Stadium, 1000 Elysian Park Ave., (213) 224-1400 or dodgers.mlb.com. Sept. 12-17, 7:30 p.m.; Sept. 18, 1:10 p.m.: With the Dodgers’ season mostly a throwaway, persevering Blue Crew fans have still had a few reasons (three, really) to go to the ballpark. Who wouldn’t want to watch young Clayton Kershaw hurl those nasty sliders? Also, there’s always the chance that Matt Kemp might make a showstopping catch in the outfield. Then there’s Andre Ethier, bothered by knee troubles, but still grinding out games and hits as the smiling, friendly face of the franchise. Until now. The dugout leaders (or was it the front office?) has decided
Listings Continued from previous page the city’s oldest house; the Sepulveda House, home to exhibits and the monument’s visitors center; the Fire House Museum, which houses late 19th-century fire-fighting equipment; and the Masonic Hall, which boasts Masonic memorabilia. Check its website for a full slate of fiestas, including Cinco de Mayo, Dia De Los Muertos in November and December’s beautiful candlelight procession, Las Posadas. Open daily, though hours at shops and halls vary. Grammy Museum L.A. Live, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org. Sept. 17-Jan 22: Say It Loud: The Genius of James Brown will focus on the “Godfather of Soul,” who blazed a trail in American music by blending gospel, pop and soul. The exhibit will depict Brown’s role as a trendsetter in both fashion and dance, as well as illustrate how Brown used his music and celebrity to positively impact the Civil Rights movement and race relations of the 1960s. Through Nov. 28: Roy Orbison: The Soul of Rockn-Roll explores the life and legacy of music legend and cultural enigma Roy Orbison — black sunglasses included. Through Feb. 2012: Barbara Streisand commemorates the icon’s 2011 MusiCares Person of the Year honor and her upcoming 50th anniversary in the music industry with a case dedicated to her memorabilia. Ongoing: The Grammy Museum debuted a new exhibit case in June paying tribute to the life and legacy of Michael Jackson. The display serves as a follow-up to the museum’s past exhibitions, Michael Jackson: HIStyle and Michael Jackson: A Musical Legacy. Housed on the third floor, the exhibit coincided
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with the second anniversary of Jackson’s death. Ongoing: Roland Live is a permanent installation courtesy of the electronic musical instrument maker, Roland Corporation. The exhibit gives visitors a chance to participate in the music-making process by playing a wide variety of Roland products, from V-Drums and BOSS pedals to VIMA keyboards and the MV-8800 Production Studio. Japanese American National Museum 369 E. First St., (213) 625-0414 or janm.org. Through Oct. 30: For more than 25 years, fans around the world have been enjoying Stan Sakai’s Usagi Yojimbo. Now JANM hosts Year of the Rabbit: Sakai’s Usagi Yojimbo. This retrospective exhibition celebrates the work of Sakai and includes original drawings and paintings that bring to life the adventures of his samurai rabbit from 17th century feudal Japan. Ongoing: Common Ground: The Heart of Community chronicles 130 years of Japanese American history, from the early days of the Issei pioneers to the present. LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes 501 N. Main St., (888) 488-8083 or lapca.org. Current: Los Angeles’ first Mexican American cultural center’s inaugural exhibition, LA Starts Here!, reveals the essential role of Mexicans and Mexican Americans in the founding and shaping of Los Angeles’ history and culture —a multicultural project from the very beginning. The Latino Museum 514 S. Spring St., (213) 626-7600 or thelatinomuseum.com. Ongoing: The Latino Museum holds a unique collection of work from emerging and established contemporary Mexican, Latino and Chicano artists working and living in the United States as well as throughout Latin, Central and South America. Museum of Contemporary Art, Geffen Contemporary 152 N. Central Ave., (213) 621-1741 or moca.org. Oct. 1-Feb. 23: Under the Big Black Sun explores the polymorphous art of California from 1974-1981. Museum of Contemporary Art, Grand Avenue 250 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-2766 or moca.org. Through Oct. 2: Cy Twombly: A Scattering of Blossoms & Other Things traces the work of a master of postwar painting, and the critical role his work has played in the international development of contemporary art. This exhibition, featuring works from the Broad Collection, spans the six decades of his career, tracing the evolution of his unique and highly personal visual language. Through Oct. 10: The museum gives a solo show to sculptor Lynda Benglis, known for her wax paintings and poured latex fabrications. Through Oct. 10: The Personal is Political: Women Artists From the Collection. Narrative, biography, and gender identity unite the works included in this permanent collection exhibition. Borrowing the title from a radical 1969 essay by feminist activist Carol Hanisch, the term political is used here in the broadest sense, not to reference the electoral process,
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Boxing Night Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., goldenboypromotions.com. Sept. 17, 4:30 p.m.: Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions hosts a night of boxing, with super welterweights Canelo Alvarez, who is 37-0-1 with 27 knockouts, taking on Alfonso Gomez (23-4-2, 12 KOs). It promises to be a fast fist-flying affair (which, we admit, is usually the case in boxing). But the real feature is the Floyd Mayweather, Victor Ortiz fight. Hold on now, don’t get too excited. The Mayweather/Ortiz match is happening in Las Vegas but it will be screened inside Staples Center. There will also be performances by Los Tucanes de Tijuana and El Gran Silencio. —Ryan Vaillancourt
(213) 623-9405
but to signify power relationships in contemporary culture. Within this gallery, the personal vantage point of each woman artist shapes the content of the work. Included is the work of Senga Nengudi, Adrian Piper, and Hannah Wilke, among others. Ongoing: From the Recent Past: New Acquisitions highlights 50 artworks in a range of media — video, drawing, photography, sculpture, and painting — that were recently added through gifts and purchases to the museum’s permanent collection. Ongoing: Installed chronologically, this selection of some of the most significant works from the museum’s permanent collection introduces major art movements of the 20th century, including abstract expressionism and pop art. Permanent: Nancy Rubins’ cheekily and comprehensively titled “Chas’ Stainless Steel, Mark Thompson’s Airplane Parts, About 1000 Pounds of Stainless Steel Wire, Gagosian’s Beverly Hills Space, at MOCA (2001-2002)” is a monumental sculpture made out of parts of an airplane. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 763–3466 or nhm.org. Ongoing: “Age of Mammals” tells an epic evolutionary story that spans 65 million years. But its theme can be distilled into just six words: Continents move. Climates change. Mammals evolve. Ongoing: The spectacular Humboldt fin whale specimen, “Finwhale Passage,” features the 63-footlong specimen, which weighs more than 7,000 pounds and has been re-articulated to create a more realistic impression of the living animal. An intriguing sound installation and interactive visitor components will accompany the display, which is one of the best and most complete large-whale articulations in the world. Ongoing: The “Dino Lab” is a working paleontological lab, wherein museum staffers work on a several dinosaur and other fossil creature skeletons for future display at the museum. For a true behind-the-scenes experience, come witness the exciting dinosaur preparation process in the Level 2 Dino Lab. Sneak a peek at real fossils and see the NHM staff working on the dayto-day details. Everything you see in the lab is real. Wells Fargo History Museum 333 S. Grand Ave., (213) 253-7166 or wellsfargohistory.com. Ongoing: Take in an Old West exhibit including a faux 19th-century Wells Fargo office, a real-life Concord stagecoach that once traversed windy southern Kentucky roads and a gold nugget weighing in at a shocking two pounds.
BARS & CLUBS Edison 108 W. Second St., (213) 613-0000 or edisondowntown.com. Downtown history has come full circle in this former power plant turned stunning cocktail bar. The Edison is perhaps Downtown’s hottest hotspot and draws an eclectic crowd, including jaded Hollywood
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types who can’t help but gawk at the preserved bits of machinery, the huge generator and the coal box that now houses the jukebox. Far Bar 347 E. First St., (behind the Chop Suey Café), (213) 617-9990 or chopsueycafeandlounge.com. Tucked behind the Chop Suey Café is the Far Bar, where intimacy and a sense of noir L.A. collide. If you can find the place, which you enter through the back of the café or via a skinny alley a few doors down, you can throw them back in the same spot author Raymond Chandler is rumored to have done the same. Figueroa Hotel 939 S. Figueroa St., (213) 627-8971 or figueroahotel.com. The Moroccan-inspired Figueroa Hotel just a block north of Staples Center manages the unique feat of making you feel like you’re in the heart of the city and removed from it at the same time. The lightfilled Veranda Bar is just steps from the clear, glittery pool, and it’s common to see suit-clad Downtowners a few feet from swimsuit-wearing Euro-tourists. Five Stars Bar 269 S. Main St., (213) 625-1037. Burgers, brew, billiards, art and live music. Cash only, amigos. Gallery Bar Millennium Biltmore Hotel Los Angeles, 506 S. Grand Ave., (213) 624-1011 or millenniumhotels.com. This elegant lounge in the Millennium Biltmore Hotel is known for its martinis, wines and vintage ports. Genji Bar Kyoto Grand Hotel and Gardens, 120 Los Angeles St., (213) 253-9255 or kyotograndhotel.com. The Genji Bar offers a hip, private karaoke room that you and a dozen or so of your friends can rent for about $10 a piece. It’s got new songs, old songs, odd songs and songs that you wish no one would sing. It also means you can warble “Sweet Home Alabama” all you want without the agonizing wait. Golden Gopher 417 W. Eighth St., (213) 614-8001 or goldengopherbar.com. This stylish, dimly lit space with exposed brick walls, chandeliers and golden gopher lamps has a rockin’ jukebox, cheap Pabst Blue Ribbon and an outdoor lounge for smokers. Best of all, it also has Ms. Pac Man and Galaga. The bar also has a rare take-out liquor counter. Grand Star Jazz Club 943 Sun Mun Way, (213) 626-2285 or grandstarjazzclub.com. Firecracker club heats things up every other Friday atop the Quon Brothers’ Grand Star. Start the evening at the latter, where the lapu lapus are wicked strong. There’s usually alternating karaoke and a good jazz trio. Upstairs you’ll find the hip-hop haven known as Firecracker, a longtime dance club with good music and an eclectic, lively crowd. Hop Louie 950 Mei Ling Way (Central Plaza), (213) 628-4244.
Why Cook?
to shut down Ethier for the year, so as to not make his injury worse. No use wasting him for future seasons just to show up for the next month, with no playoff hopes. But hey, there’s still Kemp and Kershaw, right? The D-backs are in town to start the week, and then the Pirates visit for a four-gamer.
Suim nner m i D ch and D Lun
We Got Games
Now Accepting Credit Cards
September 12, 2011
Twitter/DowntownNews
An Extensive Seafood Menu including Dim Sum at Moderate Prices Relaxed Dining in an Elegant Ambiance Live Lobster Tank
Free Parking Next to Restaurant
700 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 | Tel: 213.617.2323
September 12, 2011
DowntownNews.com Downtown, Moody’s is a traditional sports bar, serving pub grub from steaks to sandwiches. Morton’s The Steakhouse, Bar 12·12 735 S. Figueroa St., (213) 553-4566 or mortons.com. Sinatra croons and cocktails chill. And during Power Hour, bar bites are $5, Mon.-Fri. from 4:306:30 p.m. and 9:30-11 p.m. Mountain Bar 475 Gin Ling Way, (213) 625-7500 or themountainbar.com. There’s something to be said for a spot that’s a bit tricky to find. No matter. Your hard work will be rewarded with an extra strong drink at this artsy Chinatown haven decked out with stunning light fixtures, red bleeding walls and post-modern decor. The second level features a dance floor. There’s usually an art show every month, and weekly DJs. Noé Bar Omni Hotel, 251 S. Olive St., (213) 356-4100 or omnihotels.com. This relaxing spot features a full menu of signature martinis and a humidor with a variety of quality cigars. The outdoor patio showcases the Downtown skyline and California Plaza and features intimate fire pits. Happy Hour every Wednesday and Thursday 5-9 p.m. featuring live music, $3 appetizers and $5 cocktails. O Bar & Kitchen O Hotel, 819 S. Flower St., (213) 623-9904 or ohotelgroup.com. Surrounded by warm orange walls and exposed brick, try California-inspired Mediterranean tapas and relax with a house cocktail or specialty martini. Oiwake 122 Japanese Village Plaza Mall, (213) 628-2678 or oiwake.com. The first karaoke restaurant and bar in Downtown boasts a monster songbook. Pattern Bar 100 W. Ninth St., (213) 627-7774 or patternbar.com. This new Fashion District spot pays tribute to style luminaries with craft cocktails like “The McQueen,” a gin and elderflower concoction, and the Belvedere-laden “Dior.” An able kitchen serves up an area of tapas, salads and small plates to munch on with your cocktail or craft brew. Sunday features a Cuban brunch. Sit around the big glass windows of the classy, corny space and watch the fashionable, and, let’s face it, plenty of not-so-fashionable people, walk by.
morE ListinGs Hundreds of listings of fun and interesting things to do in Downtown Los Angeles can also be found online at ladowntownnews.com/calendar: Rock, Pop & Jazz; Bars & Clubs; Farmers Markets; Events; Film; Sports; Art Spaces; Theater, Dance and Opera; Classical Music; Museums; and Tours.
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2011 Cross-Country Adoption Tour TONS OF DOGS, CATS, PUPPIES, KITTENS & BUNNIES FOR ADOPTION! Get a FREE Care Package! BRING YOUR PET! • FREE ID Tags courtesy of help4pets.com • FREE Nail Trim & Ear Cleaning courtesy of Bark Avenue Celebrity Appearances • Live DJ • Training Tips • Food Trucks • FREE Raffles and more!
Come To The Pet Adoption Event At Bark Avenue! Saturday, Sept. 17th • 10am - 3pm • BARK AVENUE 545 S. Main St. Downtown (Parking at Main & 6th Sts.) Los Angeles, CA 90013 • GetYourLicks.org BarkAvenueFoundation.org • 213.748.7485 Sponsored by ®
Say It Loud photo courtesy Grammy Museum
This is old school Chinatown, on the ground floor of the Hop Louie Restaurant, with slightly indifferent bartenders and décor — it’s actually a relief. J Restaurant & Lounge 1119 S. Olive St., (213) 746-7746 or jloungela.com. Once the site of the historic Little J’s, this South Park lounge a stone’s throw from Staples Center now offers signature cocktails, cigars, beer and about 20 wines by the glass. The sprawling space is highlighted by a 10,000-square-foot outdoor patio featuring cozy cabanas, a glowing fire pit and a 30-foot granite bar. Happy hour is from 5 p.m. until sunset all summer long. La Cita 336 S. Hill St., (213) 687-7111 or lacitabar.com. Though the owners of Echo Park’s Short Stop bought it, little has changed. Everything in this former Mexican Ranchero bar oozes red, from the vinyl booths lining the wall to the glowing light fixtures. Hipsters, Latino regulars and artists mingle as DJs get their groove on during the week. Saturday and Sunday bring Hacienda Nights with traditional Ranchero music. La Fonda 2501 Wilshire Blvd., (213) 380-5053 or lafondala.com. The palatial restaurant and stage has re-opened. Live performances by the Mariachi Monumental de America plays nightly at 7 p.m., 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. The restaurant is open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday from 4 p.m. to 2 a.m. Library Bar 630 W. Sixth St., (213) 614-0053 or librarybarla.com. This dimly lit bar is more upscale than your typical pub, which means you won’t find a boisterous USC crowd here. A very busy happy hour draws associates from the law firm across the street, as well as bankers, secretaries and other professionals for the grown-up beer and wine selections. There’s a full bar, but the main attractions are the seven craft beers on tap. Magnolia 825 W. Ninth St., (213) 488-0400. Located within steps of the Staples Center and the Los Angeles Convention Center, this skylight-lit bar is the sister location of the popular Hollywood hotspot. Friendly service, great appetizers, and— this is rare — two hour free parking located in the attached garage right behind our building on 8th Place. Mayan 1038 S. Hill St., (213) 746-4287 or clubmayan.com. A multi-level nightclub in the refurbished Mayan Theatre features Latin dance, Spanish rock, house and tropical music on the main floor. Upstairs, its ’80s music, KROQ selections, disco, hip-hop and R&B. McCormick & Schmick’s 633 W. Fifth St., Fourth Floor, (213) 629-1929 or mccormickandschmicks.com. With a bar, adjoining dining rooms and patio where patrons can take in the dazzling skyline, this is a longtime Downtown happy hour scene, and one of its most festive. The drinks come quick, and the food specials are unbeatable — formidable burgers and appetizers for mere dollars. Mignon 128 E. Sixth St., (213) 489-0131 or mignonla.com. Mignon exudes cuteness, with its warm lighting, wrap-around bar and delicate small plates of jamon serrano and paté de campagne. The wines — red, white, sparkling and sweet — are all of the European variety. Moody’s Bar and Grille Los Angeles Marriott Downtown, 333 S. Figueroa St., (213) 617-1133 or marriott.com. Located in the lobby of the Los Angeles Marriott
Downtown News 35
T
he Grammy Museum is getting some funky, powerful soul up in there with a new James Brown exhibit, opening on Sept. 17. Say It Loud: The Genius of James Brown celebrates the Godfather of Soul, gauging his influence on music, civil rights and, basically, all aspects of American pop culture. The show features stage costumes worn by Brown, including one of his signature capes, early albums, rare photographs, handwritten lyrics and more. It’s on display through Jan. 22, 2012. At 800 W. Olympic Blvd. More info at grammymuseum.org.
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Downtown News 37
DowntownNews.com
CLASSIFIED
place your ad online at www.ladowntownnews.com
FOR RENT
L.A. Downtown News Classifieds Call: 213-481-1448
“Be wary of out of area companies. Check with the local Better Business Bureau before you send any money for fees or services. Read and understand any contracts before you sign. Shop around for rates.”
Classified Display & Line ad Deadlines: Thursday 12 pm REAL ESTATE RESIDENTIAL 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)
REAL ESTATE COMMERCIAL
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.
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. 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. CHARMING STUDIO with kitchenette $650 month. Cozy. Private patio. Quiet building and street. 805-772-9079. 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.
Commercial Space CENTRAL KITCHEN (7326 S. Broadway) 4500/sq. 3 Large Hood, Walk-In Refigerator & Exhaust System in Place, Near USC, K-Town, LA Life, 110 Fwy, Not Far From Santa Monica. Pls Call (818)716-7297.
EMPLOYMENT Customer Service CUSTOMER SERVICE Representative. Must have good computer skills. Speak fluent English. No job experience needed. Send a resume to: RL90000@ gmail.com. 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)
General
Drivers
MARKETING ASSOCIATE (Nestlé USA, Inc., Glendale, CA): Lead creation & execut. of long-term & annual mrktg strategies & bus. plans for food & bev. products, w/focus on mrktg. such products to Hispanic consumer segment. Req. Master’s deg. in Bus. Admin., Mrktg., or rel. field & 2 yrs’ mrktg. exp. in consumer packaged goods or rel. indus. Stated or other exp. must incl.: MS Office; applic. of Nielsen info. to brand planning activities; proj. mgmt.; & P&L responsibility. Exp. may, but need not, be gained concurrently. Exp. may have been gained prior to completion of Master’s degree. Travel in U.S. and internationally up to 15% of working time. Apply w/ resume to M. Simo, Nestle USA, Inc., 800 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale, CA 91203. Ref. job code MA. NO PHONE CALLS OR THIRD PARTY AGENTS PLEASE.
APPLY NOW. 12 Drivers Needed. Top 5% Pay. 2 Months CDL Class A Driving Experience. 1-877-258-8782. www.MeltonTruck.com (Cal-SCAN) COME MEET a Recruiter. Watkins Truckload Services, 14251 Slove Ave., Fontana. CDL A & 1 year experience Required. Call today! 1-888-613-6376. (CalSCAN)
DRIVER - Up to $2500 Sign-on onus. Start a New Career! 100% Paid CDL Training! No Experience Required. Crst Van Expedited. 1-800-326-2778. www. JoinCRST.com (Cal-SCAN) DRIVERS/CDL Training - Career Central. No Money Down. CDL Training. Work for us or let us work for you! Unbeatable Career Opportunities. *Trainee *Company Driver *Lease Operator Earn up to $51k *Lease Trainers Earn up to $80k 1-877-3697091. www.CentralDrivingJobs. net (Cal-SCAN)
$1,900 per month.
213-327-0105
FOR RENT
ENTERTAINMENT Broadcast Engineers needed in Van Nuys./ LA area. Mobile Units, Studios and Flypack experience. Negotiable salary with benefits. 412-826-1414
Loft/Unfurnished
Old Bank District The original Live/Work Lofts from $1,100 Cafes, Bars, Shops, Galleries, Parking adjacent. Pets no charge Call 213.253.4777 LAloft.com
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. Apartments/Unfurnished 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.
madison hotel Clean furnished single rooms. 24-hour desk clerk service. •Daily, $30.00 •Weekly, $109.00 •Monthly, $310.00 (213) 622-1508 423 East 7th St.
(2 blocks west of San Pedro St.) Starting Jan. 1, 2011
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) Continued on next page
Best Downtown Locations!
Downtown Value School and Central City Value School today announced its policy for providing free and reduced-price meals for children served under the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program. Each school has a copy of the policy, which may be reviewed by any interested party. The household size and income criteria identified below will be used to determine eligibility for free, reducedprice, or full-price meal benefits. Children from households whose income is at or below the levels shown here are eligible for free or reduced-price meals. Children who receive Food Stamp (FS), California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs), Kinship Guardianship Assistance Payments (Kin-GAP), or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) benefits are automatically eligible for free meals regardless of the income of the household in which they reside. Eligibility for a foster child is based on a separate application and solely on the amount of the child's “personal use” income. FREE ELIGIBILITY SCALE LUNCH, BREAKFAST, MILK
Duplexes ECHO PARK 1 bdrm. 1 bath. Refrigerator stove and A/C. Starting at $850 a month. 213-250-4810 leave message.
SERVICES
Be Inspired...
2011/2012 MEDIA RELEASE FOR FREE AND REDUCED-PRICE MEALS IN THE NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH AND SCHOOL BREAKFAST PROGRAMS
1,500 square feet,
THINK CHRISTMAS - Start Now! Own a Red Hot - Dollar, Dollar Plus, Mailbox or Discount Party Store from $51,900 worldwide! 100% Turnkey. 1-800-5183064. www.DRSS25.com (CalSCAN)
The Downtown Renaissance Collection
CALIFORNIA DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION NUTRITION SERVICES DIVISION SCHOOL NUTRITION PROGRAMS
fully furnished with kitchen.
Business Opportunities
Education TRADES
office space lease/sale
Office space for lease,
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
TWICE PER EVERY TWO WEEKS MONTH
HOUSEHOLD SIZE
YEAR
MONTH
1
$ 14,157
$ 1,180
$ 590
2
19,123
1,594
797
3
24,089
2,008
4
29,055
5
REDUCED-PRICE ELIGIBILITY SCALE LUNCH, BREAKFAST
550 NORTH FIGUEROA ST.
877-231-9362
TWICE PER EVERY TWO MONTH WEEKS
WEEK
YEAR
MONTH
$ 545
$ 273
$ 20,147
$ 1,679
$ 840
$ 775
736
368
27,214
2,268
1,134
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524
1,004
927
464
34,281
2,857
1,429
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660
2,422
1,211
1,118
559
41,348
3,446
1,723
1,591
796
34,021
2,836
1,418
1,309
655
48,415
4,035
2,018
1,863
932
6
38,987
3,249
1,625
1,500
750
55,482
4,624
2,312
2,134
1,067
7
43,953
3,663
1,832
1,691
846
62,549
5,213
2,607
2,406
1,203
8
48,919
4,077
2,039
1,882
941
69,616
5,802
2,901
2,678
1,339
WEEK
207
$ 191
96
$ 7,067
295
$ 272
$ 136
$
414
$
$
$
589
$
Application forms are being distributed to all households with a letter informing them of the availability of free and reduced-price meals for enrolled children. Applications are also available at the principal's office in each school. To apply for free or reduced-price meal benefits, households must complete an application and return it to he school for processing. Applications may be submitted at any time during the school year. The information households provide on te application will be used to determine meal eligibility and may be verified at any time during the school year by school or program officials. Requirements for school officials to determine eligibility for free and reduced-price benefits are as follows: For households receiving Food Stamp, CalWORKs, Kin-GAP, or FDPIR benefits – applications need only include the enrolled child(ren)'s name, Food Stamp, CalWORKs, Kin-GAP, or FDPIR case number, and the signature of an adult household member. For households who do not list a Food Stamp, CalWORKs, KinGAP, or FDPIR case number, the application must include the names of all household members, the amount and source of the income received by each household member, and the signature and corresponding Social Security number of an adult household member. If the household member who signs the application does not have a Social Security number, the household member must indicate on the application that a Social Security number is not available. Under the provisions of the free and reduced-price meal policy, the determining official(s), as designated by the sponsor/agency, shall review applications and determine eligibility. Parents or guardians dissatisfied with the eligibility ruling may discuss the decision with the determining official on an informal basis. Parents may also make a formal request for an appeal hearing of the decision and may do so orally or in writing with the sponsor/agency’s hearing official. Parents or guardians should contact their child(ren)’s school(s) for specific information regarding the name of the determining official and/or hearing official for a specific school, agency, or district. If a household member becomes unemployed or if the household size increases, the household should contact the school. Such changes may make the children of the household eligible for benefits if the household's income falls at or below the levels shown above. In accordance with federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability. To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410 or call 202-720-5964 (voice and TDD). The USDA is an equal opportunity provider.
WWW.THEORSINI.COM
$ 388
For each additional family member, add:
$ 4,966
Orsini Medici 725 SOUTH BIXEL ST.
877-239-8256
WWW.THEMEDICI.COM
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
• 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
Version 2
Elevate Your Lifestyle @ PE Lofts Today! Client: Publication: Size/Color:
G.H.On-Site Palmer Associates ■ Covered Parking ■ 24LADT Hr. StateNews of the Art Fitness Center
4.3125” 8” 4C ■ Heated Pool andxSpa
■ 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
38 Downtown News
September 12, 2011
Twitter/DowntownNews Continued from previous page
Beautiful
Education ATTEND COLLEGE Online from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified. Call 888-210-5162 www.Centura.us.com (Cal-SCAN)
EstD 1912
Historic beauty. Modern refinement. Eclectic elegance.
HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Graduate in 4 weeks! Free Brochure. Call Now! 1-866-5623650 ext. 60 www.SouthEasternHS.com (Cal-SCAN)
noW lEasing $1,400’s/Mo.
SWIM LESSONS from Brian Nassau. 16 years experience. Children and adults. Learn in a positive environment. Call Brian at 818-307-9153. child carE
Infant - Pre-K full-day care 2-5 days, some subsidies Near Little Tokyo Metro Station Harry Pregerson Center 213-894-1556 Joy Picus Center 213-978-0026 mtwashingtonpreschools.org
rosslyn hotEl
— ON GROUND FLOOR — KELLY’S COFFEE, DRY CLEANING, MARKET & MAC AND CHEEZA
Studio 280 sqft. Full Bathroom Apartment $600 mo. to mo. $580 on 6 mo. Lease
756 S. Broadway, Los Angeles 213-892-9100 | chapmanf lats.com Pricing subject to change without notice.
Law Clerk (F/T): Reyes Law Group is a law firm in Los Angeles, CA. A Juris Doctor degree is req’d. Mail resume: Reyes Law Group, Attn: Law Clerk Position, 3600 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 820, Los Angeles, CA 90010.
Singing, dancing, performing and fun! For boys & girls ages 3 and up!
SunshineGenerationLA.com 909-861-4433
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)
Psychic Readings by Lydia Reader • Healer • Advisor Complimentary Readings Every Friday from 10am - 3pm
Specializing in reuniting love Figueroa Corridor (Dwtn LA) (323) 208-1393
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)
clEaning CONCEPTO’S CLEANING Crew. Professional, experienced, cleans apartments, homes, offices and restaurants. Call for a quote. 323-459-3067 or 818-409-9183.
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
Real Estate Specialist of San Gabriel Valley Proudly serving the communities of San Gabriel, Alhambra, Monterey Park, Montebello and El Monte.
Free Utilities, 24 hr. laundry, Around the Clock Courtesy Patrol
112 W 5th St., Los Angeles, CA 90013 213.624.3311 • Rosslyn@SROhousing.com
Fully furnished with TV, telephone, microwave, refrigerator. Full bathroom. Excellent location. Downtown LA. Weekly maid service.
Monthly from $595 utilities paid. (213) 627-1151
PreMiere towers
Cal Best Realty Emi Terauchi
7000 sqft. Basement Space ✦ set up for Gallery/Office space
Lic.No.00810238 English/Japanes/Chinese speaking
• w/Gallery Lights • Wide Private (Spring St.) Entrance • Ideal for Art Gallery, SPA, Office Space • Wired for internet service/telephone outlets • Prime Location in Downtown (Gallery row, residential area, wine bar, café, market)
Realtor / Notary
emiterauchi@yahoo.com (626) 786-9086
CaLL FOR PRiCE
213.627.6913 | cityloftsquare.com
Misc. sErvicEs
LOFT CURTAIN GALLERY Affordable custom drapery, fine vintage furniture & reupholstery.
www.loftcurtaingallery.com
(213) 489-3179 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! 1-866-419-5666. (Cal-SCAN)
hEalth & FitnEss
lEgal
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)
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) PsychothEraPy
No Application Fee! - Sec. Dep. $175
EMPloyMEnt
Sunshine Generation
Psychic
attornEys
ROOFTOP GARDEN RETREAT WITH BBQ AND LOUNGE GRAND LOBBY • FITNESS CENTER • SPA MODERN KITCHEN w/CAESAR COUNTERTOPS HIGH SPEED INTERNET • PET FRIENDLY • DRAMATIC VIEWS
Children’s Performing Group
BusinEss sErvicEs
the loft expert! group
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.
TM
Downtown since 2002
AUTOS
Voted Best Downtown Residential Real estate Agent 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
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Answers to last week’s puzzle on page 34
PrE-oWnEd
doWntoWn l.a. auto grouP Porsche Volkswagen audi Mercedes-Benz nissan cheVrolet cadillac
September 12, 2011
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 TWO CARS: 2004 Ford Explorer XLT, two wheel drive, like new, new tires, dual A/C, fully loaded, 72K miles, $10K. 2010 Mercedes C300, fully loaded,11K miles, $31K. 310-770-5250.
Downtown News 39
DowntownNews.com Autos WAnted
ARt
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)
SCULPTURE black metal 4’ x 2’ $75. Roger 323-666-7892
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)
GARAGe sAles
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)
ADVERTISE YOUR Auction 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)2886019. (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.
ITEMS FOR SALE Misc. iteMs READERS & MUSIC Lovers! 100 Greatest Novels (audio books) Only $99.00 (plus S/H.) Includes MP3 Player & Accessories. Bonus: 50 Classical Music Works & Money Back Guarantee. Call Today! 1-877-360-6916. (Cal-SCAN)
ANNOUNCEMENTS
HUGE L SHAPED writing desk kidney shaped marble coffee table $100.00 each 213 389 9831 notices
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.
LEGAL Fictitious Business nAMe Fictitious Business name statement FILE NO. 2011086076 The following person is doing business
as: LA TAX CENTER, 1100 S. Hope Street, #1207, Los Angeles CA 90015-2190, , are hereby registered by the following registrant: PATRICK E. ROHRBACH, 1100 S. Hope Street, #1207, Los Angeles CA 90015. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrants has not begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. This statement was filed with DEAN LOGAN, Los Angeles County Clerk on August 22, 2011. NOTICE—This fictitious name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et. seq. Business and Professions Code). Pub. 9/05, 9/12, 9/19, 9/26/11 police peRMit notice oF aPPLication FoR PoLice PeRmit Notice is hereby given that application has been made to the Board of Police Commissioners for a permit to conduct a DANCE HALL NAME OF APPLICANT: TAMELOVE LLC DOING BUSINESS AS: PATTERN BAR LOCATED AT: 100 W. 9TH STREET LOS ANGELES CA 90015 Any person desiring to protest the issuance of this permit shall make a written protest before SEPTEMBER 29, 2011 to the: LOS ANGELES POLICE COMMISSION 100 West First Street Los Angeles, CA 90012 Upon receipt of written protests, protesting persons will be notified of date, time and place for hearing. BOARD OF POLICE COMMIS-
puBlic notice
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.
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.
DOWNTOWN L.A. AUTO $12,499 GROUP $15,999
2004 Infiniti G35 ................................................
$19,999 2009 Nissan Maxima 3.5 SV ............................. $24,999 Certified, 3.5L V6, Leather, Bose, Moonroof. 2008 Nissan Pathfinder S ................................. Certified, 4.0L V6, Gray/Gray, Tow Pkg. N111474-1 / 8C643053
NI3829 / 9C820645
AUDI OF DOWNTOWN L.A. 888-583-0981 1900 S. Figueroa St. • audidtla.com
$17,976
2008 AUDI A4 2.0 T
16V Turbo, Auto, Black/Black, Alloys
ZA10050 / 80A86906
$23,887 2008 Audi A4 Cabriolet .................................... $26,889 Certified, Turbo, Gray/Blk, Low miles. 2009 Audi A4 Cabriolet .................................... $32,976 Certified, 16V Turbo, Auto, Blk/Blk, 18k miles. 2008 Audi A4 2.0 T ............................................. Certified, 16V Turbo, Blue/Gray, 31k miles. ZA10078 / 8A146206
VOLKSWAGEN OF DOWNTOWN L.A. 888-781-8102 1900 S. Figueroa St. • vwdowntownla.com
$15,982
2008 VW JETTA SE ZV1326 / 8M051412
OVER
500 PREOWNED CARS, TRUCKS, SUV’s & VANS IN STOCK!
$16,963 2009 VW Jetta Wolfsburg ................................. $17,980 Certified, 16V Turbo, 24k miles, 29 mpg. 2011 VW Routan SE ........................................... $26,760 Certified, 7 pass, 3.6L V6, 9500 miles. Certified, 16 Valve Turbo, Blk/Blk, Only 32k miles, Tiptronic. ZV1314 / 8E223837 ZV1337 / 9M052026
ZV1396 / BR636464
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
FOR RENT? FOR LEASE? FOR SALE?
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 Num-
APARTMENT, LOFT OR CONDO
People are looking here, shouldn’t your ad should be here?
(213) 481-1448
FELIX CHEVROLET
888-879-9608 330 S. Figueroa St. • felixchevrolet.com
$16,995
2010 CHEVY HHR LT UC843R / 4BS529063
16V Auto, 29k miles, 32mpg, ABS, CD
$13,995 2008 Chevy Impala LT ....................................... $14,765 3.5L, V6, White/Tan, Low miles, CD and more. 2009 Chevy Malibu LT........................................ $14,995 Auto, AC, 30 mpg, Low miles, ABS, CD and more. 2010 Chevy Cobalt 4 Door ................................ White/Gray, 37 mpg, AC, CD, Full Power. UC808R / A7103397
UC828R / F140363
DOWNTOWN L.A. MOTORS MBZ 888-319-8762 1801 S. Figueroa St. • mbzla.com
$27,991
2007 MERCEDES E350 SEDAN
Certfied, 24 Valve-3.5L, V6, Pewter, Sport Pkg.
5382C / B104255
$27,991 2008 Mercedes E350 Sedan ............................. $33,991 Certfied, 7 speed auto, Sport & Premium Pkg. 2008 Mercedes ML350 ...................................... $34,991 Certfied, 3.5L, V6, Sand Beige, Prem 1 Pkg. 2009 Mercedes C300 Sport .............................. Certified, Low Miles, Palladium Silver, AMG Wheels. 111475-1 / R054493 5322C / B322529
888-I-LOVE-LA Visit Us Online
DTLAMOTORS.COM
Certified, 5 cyl PZEV, White/Black, 27k miles
2008 Volkswagen Passat ..................................
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.
bers 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.
UC850R / 9253081
ZA9992 / 8K008815
ZA10057 / 9K000523
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.
The minimum bid for each parcel
Certified, Air, PW, PL, Great mileage
3.5L V6, AUTO, AC, Traction control. N111472-1 / 4M827983
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.
Public auction notice (R&tc 3702) of sale of taxDefaulted Property subject to the Power of sale (sale no. 2011a)
888-838-5089 635 W. Washington Blvd. • downtownnissan.com
N111422-1 / 7L622983
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.
county oF Los angeLes DePaRtment oF the tReasuReR anD tax coLLectoR
NISSAN OF DOWNTOWN L.A.
2007 NISSAN SENTRA 2.0
is the total amount necessary to redeem, plus costs, as required by Section 3698.5 of the Revenue and Taxation Code
SIONERS Pub. 9/12, 9/19/11
111504-1 / A352705
PORSCHE OF DOWNTOWN L.A.
888-685-5426 1900 S. Figueroa St. • porschedowntownla.com
2008 PORSCHE CAYMAN S
$42,898
ZP1391 / 8U781157
DOWNTOWN L.A. AUTO GROUP 888-I-LOVE-LA (456-8352) W W W . D T L A M O T O R S . C O M
Certified, Only 41k miles, 1 owner, Bose, 6 Disc CD
2010 Porsche Cayenne GTS .............................. Certified, Blk/Blk, Navigation, Bose, Only 24K miles. ALA60431
2009 Porsche Cayenne Turbo ........................... Certified, Twin Turbo, Blk/Blk, Only 17k miles, 32V-V8. ZP1370 / A82999
2009 Porsche 911 Turbo ........................... Certified, 6 spd, Black/Black , Only 26k miles. P12097PD-1 / 9S766542
$73,898 $74,898 $99,981
40 Downtown News
September 12, 2011
Twitter/DowntownNews
Caveman Continued from page 30 Erik Bailey, who has toured as the technician for the likes of Vampire Weekend and the Strokes. Vinyl Fever: Like most music shops, Caveman Vintage Music usually has tunes playing. Unlike most shops, the sound always emanates from a vinyl record on a turntable. All of the records in the store are used, and they range from Santo and Johnny to the odd Jamiroquai single to a range of jazz classics. Price ranges widely too, from a $3 copy of Ron Carter’s All Blues to a $60 first pressing of Art Blakey’s Orgy in Rhythm. Vintage Oddities: Sticking with the old-school theme, the store stocks a few vintage curios that many might assume were totally extinct. There are two Atari systems, for example, and about 50 games (yes, they have Frogger). A system and all the games go for $150 as a package. Caveman Vintage Music is at 650 N. Spring St., (213) 6259999 or caveman-vintage.com. Contact Ryan Vaillancourt at ryan@downtownnews.com.
photo by Ryan Vaillancourt
Caveman has an array of vintage keyboard instruments, including several Moogs.
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 l l a C 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