12-10-12 by Los Angeles Downtown News

LOS ANGELES

DOWNTOWN

NEWS Volume 41, Number 50

Plan for New Year’s Eve 2 17

Charter school progress, Ray Bradbury Square, and other happenings Around Town. Take a super fantastic quiz about the 2013 Los Angeles mayor’s race.

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

December 10, 2012

A Decade Under the Influence of Pete’s Old Bank District Establishment Isn’t the Oldest Restaurant in Downtown, But the First Eatery Aimed at Residents Helped Change Everything

photo by Gary Leonard

(l to r) Tom Gilmore, Peter McLaughlin and Jerri Perrone opened Pete’s Café and Bar in November 2002. The restaurant serving burgers, salads and drinks quickly became a central gathering point for the growing community. Last week they celebrated its 10th anniversay. by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR

ike every restaurant, Pete’s Café and Bar faced numerous challenges when it opened. There were the costs of construction and remodeling a space in a turn-of-the-century building. There was the difficulty of navigating through an often-Byzantine city permitting process. There was the hunt for money to pay for the project. Then there was the challenge of finding a customer base and keeping them coming back. Pete’s had another challenge that made the already tall task of surviving even more difficult: It was a culinary pioneer in a neighborhood on the edge of Skid Row. Pete’s didn’t serve a revolutionary cuisine or reinvent the restaurant business model in any way when it opened on Nov. 18, 2002. Instead, it was a mid-priced joint wooing a lunch and dinner crowd by serving foods such as mac and cheese, burgers, sandwiches, salads and drinks. However, it was the first new restaurant aimed at the nascent Downtown

residential population. “We were pioneers and they were the pioneers,” said coowner Peter McLaughlin of the early customers. “They were just eager to have a full service restaurant in that area.” To say it’s been a long, strange trip is an understatement. Although McLaughlin is the namesake of the establishment, he had almost no restaurant experience before Pete’s. He was a partner in the project with Old Bank District developer Tom Gilmore and Jerri Perrone, a principal at Gilmore Associates. McLaughlin and Perrone married in 2000. What is perhaps even more unusual than the opening is that Pete’s today is the grande dame of nouveau Downtown dining. After years of ups and downs and numerous kitchen comings and goings, it’s the anchor of the Old Bank District’s restaurant scene. It has been celebrating its 10th anniversary over the past month, with a neighborhood party on Nov. 12 and an invitation-only affair last week. Although restaurant veterans routinely proclaim that it takes a passion for food to make a place survive, Gilmore to-

day admits that he had other concerns. “The truth of the matter is that the only reason we opened Pete’s was because, at that time, this neighborhood was such a lousy neighborhood that no one would open a restaurant,” Gilmore said. “We knew that if we were going to create a sense of community, we had to have a restaurant.” The Catalyst Before there was Pete’s, there was Gilmore, and though she was often out of the spotlight, there was Perrone. Gilmore, a New York architect who had come to Downtown Los Angeles in the mid-1990s and worked for property owner Judah Hertz, unveiled his $33 million plan to create the Old Bank District in 1998. Benefitting from the Adaptive Reuse Ordinance, which made it easier and cheaper to turn old office buildings into housing, he persuaded Perrone to leave the East Coast and work with him. In 2000, his first apartment complex, the San Fernando Building, opened. The Hellman and Continental buildings followed the next year. see Pete’s, page 12

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AROUNDTOWN Charter School Effort Moves Forward

couple of important hurdles have been cleared in the effort to open a charter school in Downtown Los Angeles. Simon Ha, one of the parents leading the effort to form the Metro Charter Elementary School, said a potential site has been identified and officials with the proposed school are in negotiations to lease a 30,000-squarefoot parcel at Olive and 12th streets. The plot currently houses a printing shop and garage, as well as some open space. Additionally, Ha said the group has secured the $250,000 required by the Los Angeles Unified School District before a charter school can open. Ha said the money came from a combination of a loan and donations. The group is also getting help from the office of the architectural giant Gensler, which has agreed to design the school pro-bono, Ha said. The group submitted their charter application to the LAUSD in October and expects to hear a response in January, Ha said. While the base $250,000 requirement can be met, the search for money continues. Ha said the Central City Association has joined the effort and will team with the parents on a fundraising event in February, and the school will also be the beneficiary of next June’s Psomas Paper Yacht Challenge. Officials hope to open the school in fall 2013.

Bradbury Square Unveiled

he intersection of Fifth and Flower streets near the Central Library is now

December December10, 10,2012 2012

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Ray Bradbury Square. On Thursday, Dec. 6, a dedication ceremony was held to honor the famed science fiction writer of works including Fahrenheit 451 and The Martian Chronicles. Bradbury passed away in June at the age of 92. A September motion by 14th District Councilman José Huizar noted Bradbury’s many ties to Downtown, including his patronage of Clifton’s Cafeteria and his work on typewriters at the Central Library. Attendees at the Thursday event included Bradbury’s daughter Sue Bradbury Nixon and actor Joe Mantegna.

City Considering Homeless Donation Meters

The Stanley Cup California Science Center Exposition Park November 30, 2012

owntowners could soon give money to homeless individuals without actually handing it to them. Fourteenth District City Councilman José Huizar recently authored a motion to study whether the city should convert old parking meters into donation vessels for the homeless. Under the proposal, the devices would be relabeled to indicate they are for collecting donations that the city would then distribute to homeless service providers. In theory, it could reduce panhandling because fewer pedestrians might give change if they can instead donate to a blanket of services. The idea, said Huizar spokesman Rick Coca, came from Downtown blogger Brigham Yen, who saw a similar meter in Washington, D.C., and suggested it to Huizar. “We thought, hey, this is a great idea,” Coca said. “Anytime you can raise funds, especially for a population as needy as the homeless, you’ve got to do it.”

Why does this little burger stand attract over a million people a year?

Huizar’s proposal comes as the city is slated to complete the transition from old parking meters to the new digital, card compatible meters by the end of this month. The city is also expected to remove 1,140 underutilized meters. Huizar’s motion will be considered by the City Council’s Transportation Committee on Wednesday, Dec. 12. A similar effort is underway in Denver. According to Denver’s Road Home, a campaign to end homelessness, the 86 meters installed in the Mile High city generate more than $100,000 annually.

Violent Week in Skid Row

wo men are dead and a third is recovering after three separate incidents in a violent week in Skid Row. On Monday,

Dec. 3 at 10:40 p.m., two men approached a 51-year-old man near Sixth and San Julian streets and attempted to rob him, according to police. The victim was pushed to the ground and hit his head; the blow killed him, said Officer Luis Garcia. The following morning at 4:20 a.m., in an incident that was initially considered a homicide but is likely to be reclassified as a non-crime, a man died inside the Los Angeles Mission, said Lt. Armando Munoz. The man, who weighed approximately 400 pounds, got into a fight with another man. Shortly after it was broken up, the man stopped breathing. The incident remains under investigation, pending a coroner analysis, Munoz said. Also on Dec. 4, at about 6 p.m., a stabbing occurred near Fifth and San Pedro streets. A man was stabbed in the chest but is expected to live, Munoz said. There are two suspects, one male and one female, but police have not identified them.

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Downtown News 3

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December 10, 2012

EDITORIALS Potty Talk In Skid Row

Urban Scrawl by Doug Davis

o one likes to have discussions about restroom facilities in Skid Row. The topic of people who by choice or necessity urinate and defecate in public streets and on sidewalks is somewhere between disconcerting and stomach-turning. It’s one of those topics that most people in Downtown Los Angeles would simply rather not think about. However, the limited number of public restroom facilities in Skid Row and throughout the rest of Downtown is an outrage. There may be no easy or inexpensive solution, and there probably is no “right” answer given all the opposing interests and challenges, but certainly it is a situation that can be improved. Last month, Los Angeles Downtown News wrote about the issue, which isn’t necessarily new, but that again came to the forefront following Operation Healthy Streets, the city effort in August to clear away the accumulated garbage covering many Skid Row sidewalks. As part of the attempt to address unsanitary conditions, a county Health Department report recommended installing more public toilets. While that seems like an obvious idea, it is problematic. Local police have long had to contend with an array of restroom issues that seem mindboggling to people from beyond Skid Row. In some instances public toilets were used by prostitutes and pimps. Other times the homeless were charged money to access the free facilities. In perhaps the most shocking instance, people with no other recourse turned porta-potties into their homes. There have been attempts to address the matter, including the installation several years back of automated public toilets, expensive devices where the doors open 20 minutes after someone enters. That didn’t solve the problem — Skid Row denizens complain there are too few APTs and that with no other facilities available, particularly in the evenings, people still are forced to relieve themselves in public. The police, meanwhile, pointed out that 20 minutes is more than enough time for drug users to lock themselves inside. The solution to all the debate does not exist at the moment. However, some new ideas have been offered, among them a type of facility known as the “Portland Loo,” a semi-private restroom in which the legs of users can be glimpsed from the outside. It is time for area leaders, including the local council office, to take up the subject. There needs to be a dialogue with representatives of the homeless community, police, shelter providers, area businesses and others. Everyone needs to come to the table with a malleable mindset; an expectation that there is only one right approach is destined to create division. Even extensive talks may not ultimately work. However, given the situation of too many people treating public areas for uses for which they were never intended, something must be done. It’s time, again, to begin searching for a response to this problem that has lingered in Downtown for far too long. We can’t accept the status quo.

Disrespectful Wesson Owes Riordan and the City an Apology

espect is an important part of our society. Being respectful of others is taught in pre-school. In addition to the moral aspect of treating people the way we’d like to be treated, respect has practical implications — being disrespectful can turn a petty disagreement into a fiery fight. Those basic lessons seem lost on City Council President Herb Wesson. The 10th District rep has displayed a lack of compassion for others on multiple instances since taking over the post from Eric Garcetti in January. Still, nothing compares to the disrespect that Wesson displayed to former Mayor Richard Riordan during a council session last month. We don’t write these words lightly — we have deep respect for the position of council president — but Wesson should be ashamed of his churlish behavior toward Riordan. Whether one agrees with the former two-term mayor’s politics or not, Riordan has spent decades trying to make Los Angeles a better functioning, more habitable place. His many accomplishments include getting the city back on its feet — and rebuilding downed portions of the 10 Freeway — after the Northridge earthquake. He has earned his respect, particularly inside City Hall. Apparently, Wesson just couldn’t stomach the fact that someone, no matter how accomplished, would dare have an opinion counter to his. On Nov. 20, the council was considering Wesson’s hastily assembled plan to put a half-cent sales tax increase on the May ballot. As this page wrote last month, the exceptionally speedy move was a lousy idea, and bringing the measure before voters without first giving interested parties a chance to thoroughly discuss and debate the proposal weakens public trust in government. Riordan had a dog in the fight. At the time, he was trying to get his own measure on the March ballot, one that would change the pension system for new city employees, putting them into 401(k)s and increasing the amount of their contributions (he has since dropped his petition-gathering campaign). Although his effort did not directly impact Wesson’s proposed tax hike, the two were related. Riordan, as he has for several years now, was warning that the city could fall off its own fiscal cliff if the pension system is not quickly and fully addressed. At first it seemed Wesson might show Riordan the proper respect. During public testimony, he called the 82-year-old former mayor as the first person to comment. The presumptive deference didn’t last long. Wesson instructed Riordan that he had just two minutes at the podium, and although

that is the customary time limit for a speaker, custom also dictates that former mayors and former councilmembers be given a little latitude and a serious measure of respect. Riordan ran Los Angeles for eight years (during which time he took just $1 a year in salary). It would seem that the council president should have the grace and the example of history to extend the timeframe. Riordan made a joke, saying he had an hour and a half. “Not by my watch,” retorted Wesson coldly. Riordan went on to state his opposition to the tax increase. He also used the opportunity to point out what he perceives as the perils of the current pension system. He again warned of financial calamity if the city fails to act. Recognizing the situation, he did it all in less than two minutes. Council presidents traditionally don’t respond harshly to comments in public testimony. A polite and appropriate response, even to an opposing viewpoint, might be, “Thank you.” After all, this is the system the city has enacted to allow members of the public to address their elected leaders. It’s part of our version of democracy. Wesson went a different route, snapping at Riordan, “Ya know what Mr. Mayor, why didn’t you fix it when you were mayor, OK?” When Riordan tried to speak, Wesson harshly cut him off. “No, there’s no back and forth. I get the last word,” Wesson said. After announcing the next speakers, he added, unnecessarily and triumphantly, “This is our house.” Just like that, Riordan was dismissed. Maybe we should not be surprised at how Wesson carried himself with Riordan. During the bitter redistricting process a few months back, Wesson was gratuitously antagonistic to council members Bernard Parks and Jan Perry. Their sole “crime,” it seemed, was not blindly cheering Wesson’s quest to be council president. At the time, Wesson acted less like a leader than a bully. Although his position atop the council affords him an opportunity to bring people together, he chose to go another route. In the case of Riordan, his actions were even worse. Riordan has done far more for Los Angeles than Wesson has or, it seems safe to say, ever will do. Herb Wesson should apologize, first to Riordan and then to the people of Los Angeles for his juvenile antics. It’s not fitting for someone of his position. More than that, it’s simply not how someone should act. Wesson’s immature behavior is an embarrassment to the city. We, including Mayor Riordan, deserve better.

December 10, 2012

Downtown News 5

DowntownNews.com

The Second Super Fantastic Mayor’s Race Quiz

n May, Los Angeles Downtown News published the first Super Fantastic Mayor’s Race Quiz. A lot has happened since then: People have raised gobs of money. A couple prospective candidates opted not to run. A president has been re-elected. A few members of the public realized that there will be a mayoral vote in March 2013. All the action makes this the perfect time to check again into how much Angelenos know about the men and women

photo courtesy Kevin James

by Jon Regardie executive editor

photos by Gary Leonard

How Much Do You Know About Those Hoping to Lead Los Angeles?

THE REGARDIE REPORT

who hope to occupy the Spring Street aerie come July 1, 2013. Remember, even though there are correct responses, there are no wrong answers — any errors should be spun as a “learning experience.” One point for each correct answer. 1) When Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky announced in August that he would not run for mayor, the remaining candidates: a) thanked their lucky stars b) partied like it’s 1999 c) said to the genie, “You really can make any wish come true!” d) freaked out, realizing they may actually have to run L.A. e) all of the above 2) When mall master Rick Caruso announced in October that he would not run for mayor, the remaining candidates: a) breathed a sigh of relief b) started making plans to woo the business community c) said to the genie, “I have one more wish, right?” d) all of the above 3) Caruso today is (pick all that apply): a) rich! Rich! Rich! b) wondering what he was thinking by pondering running a deeply dysfunctional city c) tired of fielding all the “Can I meet with you to discuss an

(l to r) Jan Perry, Wendy Greuel, Eric Garcetti and Kevin James all want to be the next mayor of Los Angeles.

endorsement?” requests d) trying to figure out where at The Grove a genie could go on display 4) Which event did not cause Wendy Greuel to send out an email to supporters asking for money? a) August 2012 arrived b) the end of the September 2012 filing period was 11 hours away c) a Super PAC was established on behalf of Republican candidate Kevin James d) USC played UCLA in football e) Wendy got a new puppy f) the 2013 mayoral election was exactly one year away g) the 2013 mayoral election was exactly 100 days away 5) Wow, did Greuel really send out pleas for money for all

of those events, including the fact that USC played UCLA in football? a) yes b) no 6) Match the candidate with the description from their appearance at the Highland Park Veterans Day Parade. a) Eric Garcetti b) Wendy Greuel c) Kevin James d) Jan Perry 1) had people running along the route handing out campaign paraphernalia 2) dressed to the nines in military gear while riding in a classic car see Quiz, page 14

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December 10, 2012

Next Stop, Washington With Downtowners Approving $85 Million Property Tax, Streetcar Team Looks for Federal Funds by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR

n the evening of Monday, Dec. 3, members of the Los Angeles Streetcar campaign team gathered at the whiskey bar Seven Grand. At about 8:30 p.m., when they learned that more than 70% of the Downtown residents who cast mail-in ballots had voted in favor of a taxation plan, they erupted into applause, said 14th District Councilman José Huizar. The vote marked the successful culmination of a monthslong campaign to convince residents within about three

blocks of the proposed route to approve taxing area property owners up to $85 million. However, the $125 million project that would connect L.A. Live with the Civic Center is far from a sure thing. With the local funding portion assured, streetcar proponents are now directing their attention to three other important steps, most notably seeking $52 million in federal funds. Huizar had that in perspective after the vote. “This is just one piece of the puzzle,” Huizar said. In addition to looking for government money, Huizar noted that the streetcar team needs to finish the environ-

mental review process and come up with a 30-year operational plan for the project. The property tax does not go into effect until all three of those conditions are met. “My job now is to fly to D.C., to get on the phone, to rally and advocate and [convince the federal government] that this is a worthwhile project to invest in,” Huizar said. According to the City Clerk, 1,557 people voted in favor of the streetcar tax while 579 voted against it. The approval of two-thirds of the voters was required; the taxation plan was approved by 72.8% of those who cast ballots. The election results are expected to be certified by the City Clerk by Dec. 12. While the vote allows landowners to be taxed up to $85 million over 30 years, streetcar proponents say they plan on collecting $62.5 million to pay for half of the capital costs, including engineering and construction. The overrun will cover the administrative cost of issuing the bonds as well as any unexpected construction cost increases, said Shiraz Tangri, general counsel for Los Angeles Streetcar Inc. According to figures provided by LASI, property owners — whether of a condominium, an entire building or a lot — could pay as much as 16 to 45 cents per square foot, with the highest rates for those right along the route. The average condominium owner would pay about $60 per year, with the majority of residential units taxed less than $100 annually. Commercial building owners would pay far higher amounts. Streetcar officials said obtaining half of the funds from the private sector is a crucial step before they can try to get $52 million from the federal government ($10 million was obtained through the now-defunct Community Redevelopment Agency). Thinking Small Starts Tangri said LASI will try to secure all the federal funds through a single grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Small Starts program. “There may be other federal dollars we go after for planning issues around the project, but in terms of actual construction dollars it’s a single grant application,” Tangri said. If that application is rejected, Tangri said the project is essentially “back to square one.” “We can’t float the bonds obviously if we don’t have those dollars identified,” he said. “If we can’t get them from the federal government we would be looking for another source for that money, and at the moment there’s not any source even vaguely identified.” The Downtown streetcar has twice been rejected for federal funds. In 2010, LASI sought but did not receive a $25 million U.S. Department of Transportation TIGER (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery) grant. An application for a $37 million TIGER grant in 2011 was also unsuccessful. Tangri sought to classify those failures as learning experiences. “Part of the purpose behind the previous grant applications was to get federal agency feedback and input on the project, what they liked about it, whether we met their criteria,” Tangri said. He said LASI expects to present the application for federal funding to the City Council in the first quarter of 2013. A decision by the federal DOT could be made by the end of that year. Work also continues locally. On Dec. 12 the City Council’s Transportation Committee is expected to give the go ahead for the City Administrative Officer and Chief Legislative Analyst to begin work on coming up with funding mechanisms and other options for a 30-year operational plan. The full council also needs to approve the motion; Tangri said the public portion of the environmental review process should begin in January. The streetcar tax had its share of opponents, as some property owners protested the process that only allowed area residents to have a say in the taxation plan. Landowners were not allowed to vote unless they also lived near the route. Prominent stakeholders critical of the voting process included officials with Thomas Properties Group and Downtown Management, a company led by Australian businessman Joseph Hellen. After the vote, Jim Thomas, chairman and CEO of Thomas Properties, declined to comment on whether he will fight the project. Greg Martin, vice president of Downtown Management, said he does not expect his company to challenge the results. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.

December 10, 2012

Downtown News 7

DowntownNews.com

A HUGE "THANK YOU" TO EVERYONE WHO’S SUPPORTED STREETCAR AND SHARES OUR VISION FOR THE FUTURE OF DOWNTOWN.

Eric Metz Ben Feingold Shiraz Tangri Jessica Wethington McLean Councilmember José Huizar WeAreGiants. Ludlow Kingsley Mumtaz Marketing & Events

Steve Needleman, Scott Denham, David Gray Adele Yellin

Daniel Taban

Andrew Meiran

Daryl Landis

Blair Besten

Dennis Allen

Carol Schatz

Eric Shomof

Cedd Moses

James Okazaki

W W W. STREE TC AR . L A

Jon Blanchard Kent Smith Martha Saucedo Michael Delijani Rocky Rockefeller Stephen Rountree

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December 10, 2012

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LAPD Park’s Maintenance Malfunction Rampant Overgrowth, Dead Trees and Other Problems Force a Major Replanting by Ryan Vaillancourt staff writer

n February, following a wave of community complaints, the city allocated $800,000 to landscaping maintenance at the weed-infested LAPD Administration Building. Nine months later, a major portion of the site remains plagued by overgrowth and a pricey overhaul is still months away. The scenario underscores a budgeting and planning miscue that has hampered the site from day one — the city spent $440 million to build the headquarters that opened in 2009, but never accounted for who would maintain it. In fact, at the outset money for the most routine caretaking

was not set aside. The question of who was responsible for maintenance was tossed among city departments like a municipal hot potato. Now, workers are preparing for a replacement program that could cost up to $550,000, according to the city Bureau of Engineering. Given that Department Recreation and Parks officials have estimated an annual maintenance cost of about $125,000 for the site, the planned fixes could end up costing more than it would have to take care of the site regularly over three years. After it opened, the site’s only landscape maintenance was performed by a volunteer group of residents and busi-

photos by Gary Leonard

Although many thought the maintenance problems at the Police Administration Building’s park were solved when Councilwoman Jan Perry secured $800,000 for landscaping work, the issues have persisted. In February, some of the plants will be ripped out and replaced. All of these photos were taken last week.

ness stakeholders organized by the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council. Absent regular care, many plants have deteriorated. A large sycamore on the elevated plaza east of the building, adjacent to an LAPD memorial to fallen officers, was sawed down after it died. Without the sycamore, which was so large it had to be installed by a crane, the section is completely exposed to the sun and is often too hot for use as a seating area. In February, Ninth District Councilwoman Jan Perry arranged for Recreation and Parks to spend $800,000 on ongoing maintenance. The funds, which came from an unexpected reimbursement of city dollars from the Housing Authority, were greeted as a solution to the park woes. But when the department’s maintenance staff showed up to survey the site, they found a host of problems caused by inconsistent attention, said Regina Adams, executive officer at Recreation and Parks. Some trees were dead and others were literally sinking into their wells. Irrigation equipment was damaged. Weeds were and remain so rampant along Spring Street that hearty hedges of healthy rosemary have been almost completely obscured by invading grasses. The tarnished tableau has long frustrated some area residents including Cheryl Macdonald, who lives in the nearby Higgins Building and was one of the regular participants in last year’s volunteer cleanups. “As a neighbor and citizen of Los Angeles, it’s a humiliation,” Macdonald said. “If you spend any time wandering around the neighborhood you notice tourists coming from all over the world, and to have that degraded space sort of splayed out there see Landscaping, page 24

December 10, 2012

Downtown News 9

DowntownNews.com

The Central City Crime Report A Rundown of Downtown Incidents, Trends and Criminal Oddities

n the Central City Crime Report, we survey the recent week in public safety. All information is provided by the LAPD’s Central Division.

Pizza Store Perp: Papi’s Pizza, an Italian pie purveyor on the ground floor of the Huntington Hotel, was robbed on Dec. 1 at about 3:15 a.m. The Eighth Street joint stays open until 3 a.m. on weekends, but apparently the door was still open after closing. The suspect entered, brandished a blue steel semi-automatic handgun and took $130. That buys six 18inch pizzas at Papi’s. Police have not ID’d the pizza perp but suspect he may be responsible for a previous armed robbery at 406 E. Wall St.

Hammer Time: A resident of the American Hotel, a residential hotel at 303 S. Hewitt St. in the Arts District, became frustrated on a recent evening when his neighbor was allegedly banging something against their shared wall. He yelled at the neighbor to stop. According to police, the noisy neighbor then came to the door of the man upset by the noise. When the door opened, the neighbor had a hammer and allegedly swung it multiple times, but never made contact. The victim pushed the neighbor back into the hallway. The alleged assailant, who was arrested, claimed he was punched in the eye “for no reason.” Maybe it had something to do with the hammer? The Corner: On Dec. 1 at about 6:30 p.m., a homeless man

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was standing at the corner of Fifth and Main streets when another man approached and asked, “What do you want?” The homeless man, who presumed he was being offered drugs, declined. The suspected dealer ordered the man to “Get the [expletive] off my corner then!” The man refused and a tussle ensued. The homeless man was allegedly punched and then hit three times with a cane. The suspected assailant, who fled southbound on Main Street, was described as a black male, about 5-foot-9 and 200 pounds and about 35 years old. Liquor License: A man who was sipping beer on the street was attacked by two suspected gang members at 11th and Hill streets. The victim told police that his attackers said the corner was their “turf” and that he needed permission to drink there. One suspect smashed a glass bottle on the victim’s head during the incident, which took place Dec. 1 at 4:30 a.m. Police believe the suspects are known to loiter around Eighth Street and Broadway on weekends. —Ryan Vaillancourt

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10 Downtown News

On Track for the Future Crowds Come Out and Are Ready to Comment On the Union Station Master Plan by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR

December 10, 2012

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ne day in the future, Union Station will be a hub for high-speed trains zipping up and down the state. It will be tightly connected to Downtown neighborhoods and cultural attractions. It will be easy to navigate with better access for pedestrians and cyclists. The 1939 building will do all this while maintaining its historic charm. When and how these things will happen

is uncertain, but they are among the main goals for the Union Station Master Plan. On Tuesday, Dec. 4, Metro discussed these and other concepts with more than 200 people who packed the Metro Board Room. The hour-long presentation was the “community kickoff” in the years-long process of creating the Union Station Master Plan. At the meeting, Metro officials reviewed some of the work that has already been done by the agency and the team of Gruen Associates and

Grimshaw Architects, which was selected in June for the $4.1 million contract to create the plan. The gathering was the first of several large community meetings Metro will hold as the master plan is developed. “What’s been most exciting is the level of discussion about the station and the really big thinking about what this station means to L.A. and how it can help shape L.A. and its connection to transit,” said Jenna Hornstock, Metro’s project manager for the master plan, shortly after the presentation. The master plan will serve as a long-range roadmap for the rail hub and 40 surrounding acres of land, much of which is undeveloped. Metro bought the 72-year-old station and the property for $75 million in April 2011. The property has about 6 million square

photo by Gary Leonard

Metro officials are working on long-term plans for Union Station and 40 surrounding acres.

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Downtown News 11

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feet of secured entitlements, which are “very flexible,” Hornstock told the crowd. This, she said, means future development could include commercial and residential projects or other uses. Debra Gerod, a partner at Gruen Associates, explained that the project is currently in the “data collection and analysis” stage. The next step, she said, will be to come up with ideas about how to accomplish the overall goals. A final plan is expected by summer 2014. Currently, about 60,000 people a day use Union Station. Metro is planning for a time when 100,000 people are expected to pass through it daily. Officials hope they will use the building, rather than stream through on their way to somewhere else. “Right now people mostly use Union

Station without really knowing they’re using Union Station,” Gerod said. “They come in on transit, they leave on transit and they never really experience the station in a broader way. Right now it’s a tangled knot of transit and we could have a wonderful station with great amenities.” The process to date has included meetings with local stakeholders about their concerns and ideas for Union Station. Metro officials said so far they have heard a desire to bring more retail to the station, a goal to create a connection to the Los Angeles River and a wish to make the station a destination unto itself. Metro officials said some people complain the station is isolated from the rest of the city and that it can be difficult to navigate. Concerns were also expressed about security

and safety in the building. “We’re processing everything we’re learning and trying to figure out what’s the best thing to do with this information,” Hornstock said. Audience questions about the master plan on Tuesday ranged from how many jobs would be created by development projects at Union Station to how transportation information could be made more accessible online, and whether development would focus on maximizing profits or increasing ridership. Hornstock said there are no specific answers yet to many of the questions since the project is in the early stage, but she said as far as development goes, Metro’s goal is to support ridership. George Yu, executive director of the Chinatown Business Improvement District,

attended previous meetings with Metro and neighborhood stakeholders. He was also at the Tuesday event. He said so far the master plan is on the right track. “I think this was a good opportunity to give the public a game plan for Union Station,” he said. “We need this to be a destination. This can no longer be just a transit hub.” Jody Litvak, community relations manager for Metro, said one of the most important things agency staffers learned from the meeting is that people realize the importance of Union Station. “I think it’s really clear that there is a lot of passion and interest in and around L.A. about this whole place and people just want it to be better,” she said. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.

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12 Downtown News

Pete’s Continued from page 1 Gilmore and Perrone teamed up with McLaughlin, a former public relations and communications director, to open Pete’s. His only restaurant experiences, he recalled recently, were two early 1970s stints working as a dishwasher and a busboy. One lasted a day, the other two weeks. “I think it’s appropriate that someone who didn’t know what the hell they were doing would be the first to open the first full service restaurant on Main Street,” McLaughlin said. With the original white tile floors salvaged

and polished, dark wood chairs and tables, along with high ceilings and large windows facing Main and Fourth streets, Pete’s has the feel of an upscale old-time diner. Food highlights at the 4,200-square-foot, 154-seat restaurant include the Hellman Burger, the bread pudding and the blue cheese fries, which manages to be both intensely popular and a virtual heart attack on a plate. The restaurant’s lively bar and dog-friendly patio have also helped create a sense of community in the area. The bar remains fairly busy until last call just about every night of the week. The bartenders make a habit of knowing most of the locals and what they drink. With its popularity, these days it’s easy to forget what conditions were like a decade

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ago. One block south of Pete’s, the corner of Fifth and Main streets was a veritable drug bazaar. Now, some spots with citywide and even national appeal thrive. Bäco Mercat and Blossom are just steps from Pete’s. While a number of restaurants have been in Downtown longer than Pete’s, among them higher-end places such as Water Grill, Traxx at Union Station and the Pacific Dining Car, Pete’s was aimed directly at the new Downtowners with the goal of creating a neighborhood. “Pete’s was definitely a catalyst,” said Hal Bastian, a former leasing agent for the Old Bank District who today works as senior vice president and director of economic develop-

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December 10, 2012

Downtown News 13

DowntownNews.com restaurant proceeded. Some, not believing anyone would open a restaurant in the area, asked if it was a movie set. Even Old Bank District residents like Chris Kohlhof, who moved into the complex before Pete’s opened, found it hard to believe that someone was creating a restaurant in their neighborhood. “It was a ghost town at the time,” recalls Kohlhof, who said he remembers seeing a rendering for the upcoming restaurant on the window that showed images of people eating on the patio. “I thought, yeah, right, that’ll never happen.” The first lunch was packed with invited friends, McLaughlin recalled. People could barely walk through the place. At night, however, it was “crickets,” he said.

McLaughlin said Pete’s lost money the first year, but became profitable by the end of the second year after the dinner business started picking up. Kohlhof, who attended the opening day lunch, continues to be one of Pete’s regulars. He still lives in the Old Bank District and is at the restaurant almost every night of the week. “Before that it was almost like living college dormitory-style where we had drinks at people’s homes,” Kohlhof said. “Pete’s gave us a place where we could come together.” For Gilmore, the restaurant is more than just a business. It’s part of the fabric of the Old Bank District. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.

photo by Gary Leonard

The Pete’s patio emerged as a crucial element, with outside diners helping activate the street.

Neighborhood Follows As late as the 1940s, the space on the ground floor of the San Fernando Building, on the southeast corner of Fourth and Main streets, housed a cigar shop, a pharmacy and several other businesses including a small restaurant. Then, as Los Angeles continued to sprawl, the property, like many of its neighbors, fell into disrepair. By the late ’90s it and many other nearly century-old buildings stood empty. By 2002 the Historic Core had a few housing complexes. In addition to Gilmore’s project, Izek Shomof had opened two buildings on Spring Street. Several other plans were in the works and developers were eyeing every opportunity.

Still, there were relatively few places to get a sit-down meal, especially after dark. “The no-competition could have been a good thing or a bad thing,” recalled McLaughlin. “It was good because it’s undiscovered territory, but it was bad because the smart restaurateur would never dare open in that area.” Construction on Pete’s took a little more than a year and cost about $1.2 million. That included a $150,000 loan from the Department of Water and Power, which McLaughlin said was finally paid off this year. McLaughlin said he remembers people peeking into the window as work on the

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14 Downtown News

Quiz

Twitter/DowntownNews Katzenberg & David Geffen; Sen. Barbara Boxer

Continued from page 5 3) showed off a fetching new hairstyle and sat alongside a charming child 4) was not part of the parade

11) Which two candidates were once cheerleaders (high school or college)? a) Eric Garcetti b) Wendy Greuel c) Kevin James d) Jan Perry

7) Which of the below has Kevin James not done? a) worked as an assistant U.S. attorney b) represented Jennifer Aniston while working as an entertainment attorney c) starred in the Kevin James flop Here Comes the Boom d) chaired AIDS Project Los Angeles e) pooh pooed the city’s agreement with AEG for a Downtown football stadium f) gotten the stuffing ripped out of him by Chris Matthews on MSNBC’s “Hardball”

12) Which of the following things about Eric Garcetti is not true? a) he writes songs on the piano b) he’s a Rhodes scholar c) he reached the $200,000 fundraising level in 12 days, faster than anyone else in the race d) he’s lived in a home featured in Dwell magazine e) he is the very model of a modern major general

8) If you wanted to send a postcard to the “Kevin James for Mayor 2013” campaign, according to his website, to which city would you mail it? a) Los Angeles b) Long Beach c) Margaritaville 9) Kevin James seriously thinks he has a shot at winning this thing: a) True b) False 10) Match the candidate with their high-profile endorsements: a) Eric Garcetti b) Wendy Greuel c) Kevin James d) Jan Perry 1) former District Attorney Steve Cooley 2) Councilman Bernard Parks; Congresswoman Maxine Waters 3) Democratic Party of the San Fernando Valley; Gov. Howard Dean 4) the Dreamworks triumverate of Steven Spielberg, Jeffrey

13) Which of the following did Garcetti tweet or retweet? a) Dec. 3: “Will and Kate are having a baby! Oh yeah, BTW there is a mayoral election in 92 days here in LA.” b) Dec. 1: “End it like Beckham! @lagalaxy #LAWorldChamps” c) Nov. 26: “We’ve got 2 big ‪#CyberMonday deals! $32 for $64 premium sheets & $499 for $999 luxury mattress sets” [originally posted by Sit ’n Sleep] d) all of the above e) none of the above 14) Emanuel Pleitez (pick all that apply): a) is also running for mayor and really wants you to take him seriously b) who’s Emanuel Pleitez? c) We now return you to our regularly scheduled quiz 15) To date, the polls released about the mayor’s race: a) show a firm lead for Garcetti b) show Greuel in command c) show Perry well positioned d) show James likely to capitalize on his “outsider” status e) are a bunch of malarkey because we’re still three months from election day and only a small percentage of the voting population is paying attention f) did I just use the word malarkey? What is this, 1946?

December 10, 2012

16) Which candidate is actively seeking the endorsement of Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa? a) crickets b) more crickets c) even more crickets 17) Which of the following about Jan Perry is not true? a) she worked as chief of staff for a Downtown councilwoman, Rita Walters, who, unlike Perry, opposed the building of Staples Center b) City Attorney Carmen Trutanich once threatened to throw her in the pokey c) she’s Jewish d) she grew up in the suburbs of Cleveland e) she is also the very model of a modern major general 18) AEG hosted a fundraiser for Jan Perry at L.A. Live last week. That sound you heard was (pick all that apply): a) ka-ching! b) we’re in the money/We’re in the money/We’ve got a lot of what it takes to get along! c) thank you Tim Leiweke! 19) Who is the next mayor of Los Angeles? a) Eric Garcetti b) Wendy Greuel c) Kevin James d) Jan Perry e) You have no idea, and neither does anyone else right now Answer Key: 1) e; 2) d; 3) a, b, c and d; 4) e; 5) a; 6) a-2, b-3, c-1, d-4; 7) c; 8) b; 9) a; 10) a-3, b-4, c-1, d-2; 11) b and c; 12) e; 13) d; 14) a, b and c; 15) e; bonus point for also picking f; 16) a, b or c; 17) e; 18) a, b and c; 19) e Results: 0-9: We do vote to pick a mayor. You know that, right? 10-17: You’re the type of undecided voter who will swing the race, and all those mailers and TV ads and billboards are targeting you! Yes, you! 18-25: At least someone bothers to still read newspapers and political websites. 26-33 (or 34 with the bonus point): Have you thought about running for office?

December 10, 2012

Downtown News 15

DowntownNews.com

CALENDAR

All in the Dysfunctional Family People and Their Politics Clash in the Taper’s Dark Comedy ‘Other Desert Cities’

photo by Craig Schwartz

Jeannie Berlin, Michael Weston, Robin Weigert and JoBeth Williams star in the family drama Other Desert Cities. It runs at the Mark Taper Forum through Jan. 6, 2013. by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR

he holiday season has arrived, meaning local theaters and airwaves are filled with tales of fat men in red suits and Christmas cheer. That’s nice and all, but don’t show up at the Mark Taper Forum in Downtown Los Angeles expecting a warm and fuzzy story involving elves, reindeer, a Grinch whose heart expands or even a tale of dreams coming true. There is an element of the winter holidays in Other Desert Cities, a play by Jon Robin Baitz that opened Sunday, Dec. 9. However, the show set at a reunion instead is a politically charged play that looks at a powerful but dysfunctional family whose old wounds are reopened when they all come together. It’s tough stuff on one level, but the show from Baitz, whose work ranges from the ABC sitcom “Brothers & Sisters” to the acclaimed plays The Substance of Fire and A Fair Country, has quite a few laughs too. Other Desert Cities, which opened at New York’s Lincoln Center Theater in early 2011, is making its West Coast debut in the production that runs through Jan. 6, 2013. The play was a 2012 Pulitzer Prize finalist, received five Tony nominations and won an Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding New Off-Broadway Play. The Los Angeles runs stars a group of veteran actors inntownNewsJane on the /L.A.DowCalamity cluding Robin Weigert, who played m o .c k o o b Face HBO series “Deadwood,” as well as JoBeth Williams and Robert Foxworth. The story is set in 2004 in Palm Springs, right around the time George W. Bush was reelected while wars were ongoing in Iraq and Afghanistan. After a six-year absence, Brooke Wyeth (Weigert) comes to her family’s desert home for the holidays. The once promising novelist has some news for her well-to-do and politically connected parents. She warns them that she has completed a memoir that exposes some dark and painful family history. She knows

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it could embarrass her conservative parents, a pair of Another element of the drama involves the relationship Hollywood Republicans who had been close to Ronald and between Polly and her liberal sister Silda. Once again, there’s Nancy Reagan. a clash. Also at the reunion is her mother’s sister, Silda Grauman, “We’re Jewish, but in my sister’s language I’ve become a an alcoholic liberal, as well as her brother Trip, who produces goy,” said Williams. “I’ve turned WASP and my sister is alreality TV shows. ways teasing me about that and I’m right back at her, so we “The story is about the polarization in the family, a kind of really have fun with that.” deep polarization which is still also very true of our country Michael Weston, who portrays younger brother Trip today,” said director Robert Egan. (Justin Long was slated for the role before he pulled out due The polarizing family event is an older brother’s involve- to a film commitment), said the piece digs deep into the famment in underground political activities and his subsequent ily dynamics of all the characters. suicide. His death creates a deep division in the family, both “It’s so intelligent and yet so funny. I love the way every politically and emotionally. It leaves a wound that is reopened person in the family affects each other so deeply,” he said. by Brooke’s memoir. The play drew raves upon its Lincoln Center debut. The “My character feels that it’s very much a violation of the pri- New York Times praised the writing and the entire cast, sayvacy of the family and a hatchet job on myself and my husband ing, “This is a work in which not only every performance by our daughter,” said Williams, who plays Polly, Brooke’s but also every character is created equal. Every one of them controlling mother who is a former screenwriter. Her father emerges as selfish, loving, cruel, compassionate, irritating, Lyman (Foxworth) is a former actor and politician. charming and just possibly heroic.” Williams, whose film credits include Kramer vs. Kramer The Los Angeles production has an entirely different cast and Poltergeist, adds, “Our daughter makes it sound like we and director, but Williams thinks the synergy is still there. drove him to suicide with our views because he was a hippie “I think ours is a little more emotional,” she said. “It’s a in those days. So it’s sort of an ideological clash and an emo- cerebral play but it has a strong emotional base. I think ours tional clash.” is also a little bit more dangerous with the drama between the Flawed Figures characters.” Egan said part of the appeal of Other Desert Cities is that Although it may seem heavy at the holidays, Egan said Nov.21/Dec.7 characters are not stereotypical representationsStarts of different Other Desert Cities is by no means the type of play that will ideologies, but rather complex people with flaws and attri- make someone think twice about visiting their own relabutes. tives. Instead, he hopes that watching the Wyeth family work Williams agrees and believes the sharp prose will draw in through their issues will encourage others to do the same at audiences. their own family reunions. “The language is wonderful and funny and so you reThen again, it’s also fine to keep things warm and fuzzy, at ally love hearing both sides of the argument, but there’s also least until the new year dawns. Check Our Website for Full Movie Listings LADowntownNews.com a very strong emotional component to it,” she said. “[Baitz] Other Desert Cities runs through Jan. 6, 2013, at the Mark doesn’t make it easy for you to judge and that’s one of the Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or centerthemost interesting things about the play.” atregroup.org.

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16 Downtown News

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December 10, 2012

Discovering Josh Nelson Pianist/Composer Inspired by Jules Verne and H.G. Wells Has a Downtown Residency by Kirk Silsbee

mong musicians, Josh Nelson is one of the best-regarded local jazz players. The pianist and composer/ arranger enjoys a rare four-night showcase at the Blue Whale in Little Tokyo this month. Each Wednesday he’ll show listeners a different facet of his far-ranging musical vision. For someone who’s perhaps best known as a pianist for Billboard-charting singer Sara Gazarek, the series, which began last week, should prove revelatory. Audiences may know Nelson for his work as musical direc-

tor and accompanist to Gazarek, one of the more commercially successful jazz singers of the past five years. If they’ve kept up with Nelson’s own recordings, they know he’s a composer whose ideas strain the limitations of his small ensembles and recording budgets. His current album, Discoveries (Steel Bird), is an exploration of and homage to Jurassic sci-fi heroes Jules Verne, Nicola Tesla, H.G. Wells and the movie treatments of their works. “My father put the Jules Verne books in my hands at a very young age, and I read them all,” the 34-year old Nelson says.

photo by Jonathan Ellis

Josh Nelson, a jazz pianist best known for accompanying singers such as Natalie Cole, steps to the forefront this month with shows every Wednesday night at the Little Tokyo club Blue Whale.

“My dad worked for Disney so my brother and I got to see some of our favorite movies come to life as Disney rides, and it was all tremendously exciting to me. It still is. I’ve always loved how they styled Captain Nemo’s submarine in the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea movie. So I wrote the album with these things in mind — as much for style and sound as thematic content.” How all this will play out at the Blue Whale is, well unique. On the first night, Dec. 5, the plan was for video artist Travis Flournoy to have an installation run simultaneously with the music. Like Nelson, Flournoy was set to improvise, choosing when to speed up or slow down the tape. Nelson has built a reputation on accompanying singers; Natalie Cole is his most high-profile employer. But his most significant vocal collaborator by far is Gazarek. They’ve worked together for the past seven years. “Josh brings 150% to every musical scenario,” she says. “I think of him as my musical husband, and as far as I’m concerned he’s the best pianist in L.A.” Gazarek will sing a couple of lesser-known Duke EllingtonBilly Strayhorn tunes with Nelson on Dec. 12. Also on the bill this Wednesday is keyboardist Larry Goldings, who will be playing duets with Nelson on multiple instruments. He’s observed the Gazarek-Nelson chemistry and notes both of their strengths. “She can sing anything: wide intervals, improvisational interludes, things that aren’t suited to the average vocalist,” he says. “As an accompanist, Josh gives support, colors a situation or sets a mood. He and Sara have a common intellectual approach, so they’ll map things out and try new devices. But they’re both feeling musicians, too — they give each other intellectual content and soulfulness.” Though there are three horns at Nelson’s disposal on Discoveries, it doesn’t take a great deal of imagination to envision the themes voiced for a larger ensemble on pieces like “Jules Verne and the Magic Lantern.” He’s clearly thinking orchestrally, using movements and interludes in his tunes. The only non-original on the album is the love theme from the movie The Time Machine, by the late Russ Garcia. The composer/arranger was a hugely influential teacher in L.A. and one of the busiest Hollywood writers of the 1950s. Its inclusion is also something of a tribute. Nelson was to have played on a tribute show to Garcia at Catalina’s, but it was scratched due to the composer’s death at 95 at his New Zealand home a year ago. “That’s always been one of my favorite songs,” Nelson exudes. “It just breaks my heart every time I hear it.” It’s a fairly safe bet that at some point we’ll hear Nelson writing for orchestras. He admits that that is a goal. “I want to be able to write for movies and TV,” he says hopefully, “and symphonies someday.” Gazarek sees the Blue Whale residency as a validation of sorts for her favorite pianist. “I’m excited about this because for so long Josh has been in service to other musicians who are so eager to work with him,” she says. “He’s such a selfless player and he gives so much of himself to other people. Now we’re going to be able to hear what he wants to do. I don’t think anything is off limits to him.” The Josh Nelson residency is every Wednesday in December at 9 p.m. at Blue Whale, 123 Astronaut E.S. Onizuka St., suite 301, bluewhalemusic.com.

December 10, 2012

Downtown News 17

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NEW YEAR’S EVE Getting a Jump on New Year’s Eve It’s Not Too Early to Plan How to Welcome 2013 by Jeff favre contributing writer

he year 2013 won’t arrive for three more weeks. That may seem like a long time away, but anyone with family, friends, a job, a life, etc. knows how quickly that can arrive, especially with the holidays upon us. There are two schools of thought regarding the upcoming New Year’s Eve. The first holds that the Mayan prophecy (or at least an engaging way to misread the end of the Mayan calendar) will hit the planet on Dec. 21, 2012, and the major celebration that would occur 10 nights later won’t happen because, well, we won’t be here. The other school of thought is that all of this is poppycock, and you still need to be ready with plans for New Year’s Eve. Here in Downtown Los Angeles, we’re expecting the latter to come to pass. Fortunately, you don’t have to go far to find fun and celebrate the changing of the calendar. Below are 17 events, dinners or places where you can kiss a loved one, sing “Auld Lang Syne” or, if you want something really different, run 13.1 miles.

Mayan Mayhem: OK, the Mayans got it wrong this time, but the Mayan Theatre will get it right when it comes to a last dance — of the year, that is. Beginning at 8 p.m., one of L.A.’s most prominent salsa dancing destinations will feature a trio of music masters. DJ Pedro el Sabroso, DJ Pepper and DJ Saturn will spin a variety of genres on different levels of the Hill Street party palace. Bring your moves and your appetite because there’s also a decadent dessert and appetizer lounge, as well as the fashionable champagne toast at midnight. At 1038 S. Hill St., (213) 746-4674 or clubmayan.com From Vienna to Idina: If you think nothing says New Year’s Eve like show tunes, then you’re in luck in Downtown. On Dec. 31, the Walt Disney Concert Hall hosts two performances by Tony-winner Idina Menzel. You may know Menzel for her Broadway turns in Rent and Wicked and on TV’s “Glee.” Or you may be aware of her penchant for performing concerts barefoot. Whatever the situation, she has appeared in venues throughout the country this year, singing some of Broadway’s best, while also sharing personal

photo courtesy of Salute to Vienna

The New Year’s Eve celebrations start a day early in Downtown, with a Dec. 30 Walt Disney Concert Hall event dubbed Salute to Vienna. It re-creates the New Year’s concert staged each year by the Vienna Philharmonic.

anecdotes. She’ll hit the stage twice, first at 7 p.m., followed by a 10:30 p.m. performance. In case you want to get an early jump on the new year, like a full day early, Disney Hall is also going continental. Dec. 30 marks the return of the program Salute to Vienna. The 2:30 p.m. show pays homage to the king of waltzes, Johann Strauss Jr. The concert recreates Neujahrskonzert, which is the New Year’s concert of the Vienna Philharmonic. It will be conducted by Austrian native Andreas Mitisek, the artistic and general director of Long Beach Opera. At 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or laphil.com. Information on Salute to Vienna at salutetovienna.com. Double DJs: Whether you label it electro house, techno or simply dance music, if you

know the genre then you know DJs Nicky Romero and Zedd. The two figures in their early 20s have already become major producers working with prominent artists. They teamed for the track “Human,” and now they will celebrate New Year’s Eve together at Club Nokia, beginning at 9 p.m., playing some of their best mixes. Grab your water bottle and get ready to shimmy for hours. At 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-5000 or clubnokia.com. Grill ’em All: Chefs Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken took a bet on Downtown more than a decade ago when they opened Ciudad. Then they turned Ciudad into a Border Grill, and the good eats continued. On Dec. 31, they have a four-course, prix-fixe dinner. The $65 see New Year’s Eve, page 18

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New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve Goes to the Dogs

photo by Gary Leonard

Continued from page 17

The Conga Room celebrates its 10th anniversary on Dec. 31 with an event that features DJs, a masquerade ball, aerialists and more. Also expect plenty of drinks.

meal includes a braised oxtail tamale, a baconwrapped steak and lobster surf and turf, as well as roasted banana crepes with dulce de leche and vanilla bean ice cream. The drinks, including a bevy of inventive cocktails, are up to you, At 445 S. Figueroa St., (213) 486-5171 or bordergrill.com. Go Green: Creatively blending art and entertainment in the 100-year-old Higgins Building, The Edison’s Dec. 31 Cabaret Ball will feature live music, a DJ, aerialists, stilt walkers and dancers. The club equally known for its boiler room decor and its inventive cocktails will also feature the Green Fairy on Dec. 31. While it may seem like a bad trip, it’s actually someone traversing the 14,000-square-foot venue with a tiny trolley car containing Kubler absinthe, one of more than a dozen types of the potent green liquor. The night starts at 8 p.m. Who knows when it ends? At 108 W. Second St., (213) 613-0000 or edisondowntown.com. 10 + 24 = Delicious: Appetizers are the norm at New Year’s Eve parties. Still, few venues are better prepared to deliver a bevy of tasty small plates than WP24. The Wolfgang Puck venue on the 24th floor of the Convention Center hotel is offering a 10-course tasting menu, including the restaurant’s signature meal, roasted Peking duck. Other dishes are wok-fried cockles and a crispy glazed pork belly. The foodie’s dream come true includes a champagne toast. There is also dessert, in case you still have room. The dinner is $190 per person. At 900 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 743-8800 or wolfgangpuck.com. A Class Act: Not surprisingly, the Fashion District’s Pattern Bar is one of the most fashionable places in Downtown. So leave it

to them to get all Great Gatsby on us and offer up a Roaring ’20s New Year’s Eve party. Get in touch with your inner Nick Carraway or Daisy Buchanan at the black tie event that begins at 9 p.m. Enjoy tiny tempting tapas and an open bar specializing in classic cocktails, while dancing to the soundscapes of Eduardo Castillo. It’s a blend of classic looks and spirits with modern music. At 100 W. Ninth St., (213) 627-7774 or patternbar.com. Circus Maximus: The Conga Room is celebrating its 10th anniversary with its annual La Desvelada, co-hosted by the radio station Latino 96.3. Hosted by Sandra Pena and featuring DJs Lu Rox and Santa Rosa, the “masquerade ball and circus” is a party with entertainment. Aerialists and other circus acts will be performing. You will be entertained. At 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 745-0162 or congaroom.com Yes to Noé: Whether you want to eat before your party, or your idea of New Year’s Eve is an extravagant, long-lasting meal, Noé Restaurant & Bar has you covered. A threecourse dinner is served at 5 p.m. in the Bunker Hill eatery, followed by a four-course meal at 7 p.m. and, get this, a six-course feast at 9:30 p.m. Noé’s neo bistro cuisine specializes in seafood, and the wines come from around the world. At 251 S. Olive St., (213) 356-4100 or noerestaurant.com. A Sip of Seven: Wait, wethinks there is a theme here: Sip one of the seven featured drinks at Seven Bar Lounge, or have the staff help you choose a wine from the expansive wine room. Then spend the evening in a relaxed atmosphere at Seventh Street and Grand Avenue for a cozy New Year’s Eve party.

We’ve Steaked our Claim

f there is one thing we know about Downtown Los Angeles residents, it’s that they love their dogs. Still, even pet aficionados can’t bring their canine companions when they hit the club for a late night out. Luckily, the Central City has a few options for those who don’t want to leave Lassie home alone. Bark Avenue is one of the places that can take a dog or two on New Year’s Eve. The Historic Core pet center offers cagefree overnight stays, which means little dogs bunk together in one room and big dogs get other big dogs as roommates. Nervous pet owners can also check in on their dogs live via the Internet, since there are web cameras in the rooms. Dogs can be dropped off as late as 5 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. A few miles away is South Park Doggie Day Care. The facility will let canines in as late as 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 31. They’ll spend the night on elevated beds in shared rooms. The more pampered or skittish pooches can bunk down in private rooms with heated beds or crates. Like at Bark Avenue, South Park Doggie Day Care has cameras in the rooms allowing owners to At 555 W. Seventh St., (213) 223-0777 or sevenrestaurantbar.com. You’re Golden: Ticket prices for New Year’s Eve events can be sky high, but at the Golden Gopher bar, there’s no cover. DJ Mike T will spin a variety of rock, pop, punk and soul to accompany the $6 drink specials and a champagne cocktail menu. Don’t worry, you can always grab a Pabst Blue Ribbon beer, chill out and avoid the crowds that throng the fancy clubs. At 417 W. Eighth St., (213) 614-8001 or goldengopherbar.com. Hart of Laughs: Few comedians were as hot this year as Kevin Hart, who will be serving laughs to thousand of fans on Dec. 31 at 10 p.m. at Staples Center. Whether he’s acting in movies such as this year’s Think Like a Man or guest starring on sitcoms such as “Modern Family,” Hart has become a hot commodity. But it’s his stand-up material that made him a star. This show will be one of the biggest L.A. comedy events of the year. Just don’t expect knock-knock jokes. At 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7340 or staplescenter.com. All Together Now: The rave Together as One attracts thousands of revelers every year. They share their love of electronic music while bringing in the New Year together. In case that’s not enough dancey action, there is also a pre-party taking place on Dec. 29. Everything happens at the Shrine Exposition Hall. Be kind to all the USC students you see wandering around the area. At 649 W. Jefferson Blvd. or newyearsevela. com. Party High: Bring out your finest duds, because a strict dress code will be enforced at

keep their eyes on their dogs. If you check in and think you see dogs playing poker, you’ve probably had too much to drink. Bark Avenue is at 548 S. Main St., (213) 748-7485 or barkavela.com. South Park Doggie Day Care is at 1320 S. Grand Ave., (213) 747-3649 or southparkdoggie.com. Elevate Lounge. The New Year’s Eve party at the penthouse 21 floors above the Financial District starts at 9 p.m. with music from DJ Ekidd. The $50 admission includes a glass of champagne at midnight. VIP tickets and table service will be available for those with deeper pockets. While the drinking has to stop by 2 a.m., the music will go on for another 45 minutes. At 811 Wilshire Blvd., (213) 623-7100 or elevatelounge.com. Sleepover: Many Downtown hotels are already sold out for New Year’s Eve, but there are still some rooms and deals up for grabs. As of last week, reservations were available at the Omni Hotel, which has specials including the Ooh La La Romance package. The deal includes a pre-check-in talk with a concierge to arrange for any romantic requests. You’ll also get wine and French macarons, breakfast for two in the morning and a late checkout. At 251 S. Olive St., (213) 442-5251 or omnihotels.com. Night Run: No one thinks about working out on New Year’s Eve, but by the next day, the world is filled with hordes of individuals who want to lose the pounds. One of the best opportunities occurs on Jan. 5. The 2013 New Year’s Race is a nighttime (you read that right) 5K and half-marathon that starts and ends in Downtown Los Angeles. The event under the glowing lights of the Central City begins at Seventh Street and Grand Avenue and the finish line is near L.A. Live, where a festival of live music and entertainment will be in full swing until 1 a.m. The start time is 9 p.m. There’s also a non-timed Kid’s Fun Run at 7 p.m. Think of this as the perfect opportunity to exercise (get it?) that new year’s resolution to get in shape. At Seventh Street and Grand Avenue, (213) 627-8484 or newyearsrace.com.

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Downtown dogs may not get dressed up on Dec. 31, but their owners can access a few local places providing New Year’s Eve pet boarding services.

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December 10, 2012

Downtown News 19

DowntownNews.com

EVENTS

The Don’T Miss LisT

SPONSORED LISTINGS Downtown On Ice Lunchtime and Weekend Concerts Pershing Square, 532 S. Olive St., (213) 8474970 or laparks.org/pershingsquare. Downtown on Ice is back. The seasonal facility at Pershing Square has skates for rental for $2, with skate sessions costing $6. There will be an array of special events and programming at the rink for the next two months, including regular lunchtime concerts starting Dec. 17-23 and Dec. 26-30 from noon-2 p.m. Weekend concerts run on Saturdays Dec. 22 and 29 from 8-10 p.m. Sunday concerts are Dec. 23 and 30 from 2-4 p.m. Free Downtown Housing Bus Tour Downtown Center Business Improvement District, downtownla.com/housingtour. Dec. 15, 9 a.m.-1:30 p.m.: This guided bus tour hosted by the Downtown Center Business Improvement District visits Downtown’s vibrant neighborhoods and goes into six residences for rent at the Packard Lofts, 717 Olympic, Glo Apartments, Bunker Hill Tower Apartments, Metro 417 and Historic Gas Company Lofts. See the hotspots and amenities that make Downtown living exciting and easy. RSVP at DowntownLA.com/HousingTour for location details.

Thursday, deceMber 13 LA Grand Ensemble at Aloud 630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7500 or lfla.org. 7:15 p.m.: The newly formed LA Grand Ensemble, with members of the LA Opera and the Colburn School, offers up a program of Shostakovich, Colomer and Mahler in the unlikely locale of the Richard J. Riordan Central Library. Mindshare LA Apocalyptic Christmas Party The Hub, 830 Traction Ave. or mindshare.la. 7 p.m.: Stimulating company, inebriating beverages and lectures on the Mayan calendar and wilderness survival color this intriguingly un-cheery holiday event. saTurday, deceMber 15 Ozomatli Presents Ozokids Grammy Museum, 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 7656800 or grammymuseum.org. 2-3 p.m.: The Grammy Museum’s family series hosts local multicultural musical heroes Ozomatli in

Continued on next page

calendar@downtownnews.com photo by Piero F Giunti

one

For the irreverent among us and those who grow weary of the incessant Christmas carols comes an alternate analysis of the holidays. Unorthodox comedy specialists Un-Cabaret are the meaty filling in a special Grand Performances pie on Wednesday, Dec. 12. The noon event at the California Plaza Watercourt is appropriately titled “It’s a Wonderful-Ish Life,” and promises idiosyncratic tales of holiday mishaps, along with some rousing songs that capture the chaotic wonder that is spending the joyous season locked in a house with your family. The event is free, but the best seats go to those who arrive early. At 300 S. Grand Ave., (213) 687-2159 or grandperformances.org.

3 FiVe

photo courtesy Feld Entertainment

Deck the halls with yuletide cheer, because on Wednesday, Dec. 12, the Walt Disney Concert Hall hosts a Chanticleer Christmas concert. No, it’s not an experimental acne treatment, but rather the prominent all male chorus whose many accolades include a Grammy. The ensemble is celebrating 35 years thrilling audiences with their vocal prowess. Showgoers can expect a diverse program holi ranging from jazzy contemporary favorites to strikingly arranged holiday classics. Tickets are still available for the festive 8 p.m. perfor performance. At 111 S. Grand Ave., (213) 972-3550 or laphil.com.

photo courtesy Grand Performances

Wednesday, deceMber 12 Disney on Ice Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7326 or staplescenter.com. Dec. 12-16: Your favorite Disney princesses struts and salcow in an icy extravaganza of corporate proportions. It’s a Wonderful-ish Life: Holiday Tales from UnCabaret Grand Performances, 300 S. Grand Ave., California Plaza, (213) 687-2159 or grandperformances.org. 12 p.m.: Irreverent portraits of the holiday season are the centerpiece in this theatrical interpretation of Yule brevity. Yoga Retreat Grand Park, between Grand Avenue and Hill and Temple and First, (213) 972-8080 or grandpark. lacounty.gov. Dec. 12 and 14, 12:15 p.m.: Join your neighbors for a mind synergizing, complimentary yoga class on the lawn of Downtown’s newest park.

f you like your beats vintage, you’ll love the Hip Hop Gods Classic Tourfest Revue, which lands at Club Nokia on Thursday, Dec. 13. The highlight will be Public Enemy, which still pairs the incendiary Chuck D with the human cartoon, clock enthusiast and “Flavor of Love” star Flavor Flav. That’s only the start. Strap in and prepare for a comprehensive bill that includes X-Clan, Monie Love, Schooly D and Leaders of New School. At 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or clubnokia.com.

photo by Gary Leonard

Tuesday, dec. 11 The New Medical Model National Center for the Preservation of Democracy, 111 N. Central Ave., (213) 628-8141 or townhall-la.org. 2 p.m.: Panelists from Rand, the LA Care Health Plan and more discuss how the healthcare industry is changing in response to consumer demands for efficiency, quality and accountability. The group, assembled by Town Hall-Los Angeles, will discuss recent trends in healthcare organizations. The event is free but pre-registration is required.

by Dan Johnson, listings eDitor

photo by Lisa Kohler

Monday, deceMber 10 Anne Lamott at Aloud 630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7500 or lfla.org. 7:15 p.m.: Well-known author Anne Lamott teams up on the Mark Taper Auditorium stage with Father Gregory Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries. They’ll discuss an essential aspect of spirituality — gratitude.

PubLic eneMy brings The noise, Disney brings The ice anD More DownTown Fun

4 In the Northeast, winter means ice and snow. Snow ain’t happening here in L.A., but even with the hockey lockout Downtown gets some icy, family-friendly fun this week. The Walt Disney Company’s Disney On Ice program returns to Staples Center Wednesday-Sunday, Dec. 12-16. During the 10 shows, including three each on Saturday and Sunday, kids and their parents will watch a performance that features the princesses Cinderella, Tiana and Rapunzel. Will it be an epic meditation on self-worth and true love? No, but that’s not the point. If you’ve got a 7-year-old girl in or around your house, then this is holiday Nirvana. At 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7340 or staplescenter.com.

Just as it does the second Thursday of every month, the Downtown Art Walk is here again. So on Thursday, Dec. 13, get ready for healthy quantities of LAPD officers and plenty of art and alcohol enthusiasts. Per usual, the Historic Core’s numerous galleries and watering holes will be open for equally stimulating courses of entertainment. This month, the Art Walk Lounge (634 S. Spring St.) feature “Bandits in the Sky,” a display loyally reproducing iconic billboard street art tags from the last decade, as well as “Kicks R Canvas,” the painted tennis shoe fruit of nonprofit Woodcraft Rangers’ work with artistically inclined, at-risk kids. Things get going just before dark and continue ’til the bars close or the riot police are called in. Information at (213) 617-4929 or downtownartwalk.org.

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

20 Downtown News

December 10, 2012

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Ozo for All Ages

ROCK, POP & JAZZ Blue Whale 123 Astronaut E. S. Onizuka St., (213) 620-0908 or bluewhalemusic.com. Dec. 11: Dan Schnelle Group. Dec. 12: The Josh Nelson residency continues. See story p. 16. Dec. 13: Phil Ranelin Group. Dec. 14-15: The Curators with Anthony Wilson, Larry Goldings, Kaveh Rastegar, Barbara Gruska (of the Belle Brigade) and Eva Scow. Bootleg Bar 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org. Dec. 10, 8 p.m.: Looks like they’ve got themselves a month long infestation of Jhameel over at the Bootleg. Careful, those fumes of glossy indie pop are addictive. Dec. 11, 8 p.m.: Another residency? Valente, you make a Listings Editor blush. Dec. 12: Infectious psychedelic rock or another chapter in Project Blue Book? With People From Venus you get to decide. Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m.: Glenn Close good looks and Winston Churchill-esque stoicism. Celebrated vocalist Jessie Ware offers something for everyone.

THE ANSWER TO LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE

photo by Jon Coulthard

Continued from previous page a youth oriented dance party.

Dec. 14, 10:30 p.m.: Taking a page out of Chris Hansen’s book of online deception, Young Girls are in fact a garage band trio of mid 20s men from Texas. Dec. 15, 8:30 p.m.: The audience begged, “play that funky music, white boy” as TV Girl and Blackbird Blackbird took the stage. Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m.: Some soulful, melancholic rock from The Neighbourhood. Broadway Bar 830 S. Broadway, (213) 614-9909 or broadwaybar.la. Dec. 13, 10 p.m.: Broader Than Broadway: face melting electronica and liver dissolving beverages. Club Nokia 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or clubnokia.com. Dec. 10, 8:30 p.m.: We Hate Hurricanes (and who doesn’t) is a star-studded benefit for victims of Hurricane Sandy. The program features Aziz Ansari,

he Grammy Museum’s family series invites homegrown music fusionists Ozomatli to play some tunes for the kids at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15. The band recently put out Ozomatli Presents Ozokidz, a whole album of children’s music with songs about things like how trees grow, why not to fear the water and a moose on the loose during a camping trip. If you’re hoping to hear tunes like “Gay Vatos in Love,” then come to L.A. Live that night. At 8 p.m., the beloved local act headlines a show at Club Nokia. The Grammy Museum is at 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org. Club Nokia is at 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or clubnokia.com.

Beck, Will Ferrell, Sarah Silverman and many more. Dec. 11, 8 p.m.: Oh Chris Isaak, what a wicked game to play, changing your venue from Nokia Theatre to Club Nokia. Either way, we’ll still gladly slick our hair back and roll in the wet sand with you. Dec. 13, 8:30 p.m.: The Hip Hop Gods Classic Tourfest Revue unites Public Enemy, X-Clan, Monie Love and Schooly D on one stage. Dec. 14, 9 p.m.: Electro underpinning, jazzy beats and horns complete the Parov Stelar Trio. Dec. 15, 8 p.m.: Local heroes and musical fusion artists Ozomatli reclaim their rightful stomping ground. Escondite 410 Boyd St., (213) 626-1800 or theescondite.com. Dec. 10, 10 p.m.: Bluegrass Mondays finds the Get Down Boys invading SkidRokyo. Dec. 11, 10 p.m.: If sultry songstress Bunny West isn’t enough for you, stay put for Boom Boom Boom.

Dec. 12, 10 p.m.: Fiddle & Pine and Ocha La Rocha for a little rock oriented hump day. Dec. 13, 10 p.m.: The Downtown Train is found here, not at Union Station. So is perennial musical guest Yonatan. Dec. 14, 9 p.m.: Blues Friday with Johnny Moezzi and Trevor Menear. Dec. 14, 11 p.m.: From the finest musical traditions of Chicago and the best neighborhood in Los Angeles comes Charlie Chan and the S.O.B.’s. Exchange LA 618 S. Spring St., (213) 627-8070 or exchangela.com. Dec. 12, 10 p.m.: Apocalyptic resonance with The End featuring 12th Planet. Dec. 14, 9 p.m.: Awakening with Coldharbour. Dec. 15, 10 p.m.: If you’ve been waiting with baited breath for EDM’s answer to Justin Beiber, Danny Avila is the sign of the end times that you’ve

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

December 10, 2012

THEATER, OPERA & DANCE Bob Baker’s Nutcracker The Bob Baker Marionette Theater, 1345 W. First St., (213) 250-9995 or bobbakermarionettes.com. Dec. 15-16, 2:30 p.m.: Employing more than 100 of legendary puppeteer Bob Baker’s famous marionettes, this family performance features all the characters from the beloved story. Call for reservations. CalArts Winter Dance REDCAT, 631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org. Dec. 14-15, 8:30 p.m.: A restaging of Twyla Tharp’s alluring Torelli is the centerpiece of this year’s December concert from The Sharon Disney Lund School of Dance at CalArts. Murderous Little World REDCAT, 631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org. Dec. 10, 8:30 p.m.: This multimedia music theater work by Canadian composer Linda Bouchard is based on poems by MacArthur genius Anne Carson. Their Eyes Saw Rain Company of Angels Theatre, 501 S. Spring St. 3rd Floor, (213) 489-3703 or companyofangels.org. Dec. 14-15, 8 p.m. and Dec. 16, 7 p.m.: In this theatrical staging of a great deluge of rain and the diluvian sentiments of an eroding dream, three brothers make it their mission to keep from being washed away. Through Dec. 16.

Wednesday, December 12 A Chanticleer Christmas Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or laphil.com. 8 p.m.: Renowned all-male singing group Chanticleer regales us with old classics and new favorites as their world-class voices are on display. Thursday, December 13 Zubin Mehta 50th Anniversary Concert Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or laphil.com. Dec. 13 and 15, 8 p.m., Dec. 14, 11 a.m. and Dec. 16, 2 p.m.: Celebrating the 50th anniversary of his relationship with the LA Phil, former Music Director Zubin Mehta will conduct the orchestra in pieces from Mozart, Hindemith and Dvorak. Raise the roof!

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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Tuesday, December 11 Chamber Music: Bach, Haydn, Mozart Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or laphil.com. 8 p.m.: Select members of the L.A. Philharmonic perform a Bach Sonata, a string quartet by Haydn, a string quintet by Mozart and a concerto by Zelenka.

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been looking for. Grammy Museum 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org. Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m.: Bluegrass legend Jim Lauderdale will be on hand to help screen The King of Broken Hearts, a documentary about his life in country music. Nokia Theater 777 Chick Hearn Court, (213) 763-6020 or nokiatheatrelalive.com. Dec. 13, 7 p.m.: Those retro-minded lads at KLOS are hosting a classic rock Christmas show of epic proportions. The Doobie Brothers, Don Felder of the Eagles, Brian Wilson and Al Jardine of Beach Boys fame and many others will pack the stage. Dec. 15, 7 p.m.: Stevie Wonder’s House Full of Toys sounds like another case of celebrity excess or a Halloween theme maze at Universal Studios, but is in fact the 17th annual installment of a deeply altruistic benefit concert for underprivileged children. Dec. 16, 7:30 p.m.: Sadly, the holidays can be a terribly soul crushing time for the lonely and dejected. Fear not major depressives! 94.7 The Wave is happy to deliver some smooth holiday cheer as Dave Koz and Kenny Loggins headline their Christmas concert. One-Eyed Gypsy 901 E. First St., (626) 340-3529 or one-eyedgypsy.com. Dec. 12: A little slice of old timey action with RT n the 44s. Dec. 14: In homage to gypsy guitar wizard Django Reinhardt, the Bastards of Bellville take the stage. Redwood Bar and Grill 316 W. Second St., (213) 652-4444 or theredwoodbar.com. Dec. 10: Abby Hankins. Dec. 11: The Zoo’s Funky Cluster. Dec. 12: Frankie & Rufus, Humonstro and Jam Stain. Dec. 13: Wayne Hancock. Dec. 14: The Muertones, Sylvia Juncosa & The Bagmen, Backseat Bingo and Aftergloam. Dec. 15: Dirty Santas, Johnny Madcap & The Distractions, Wild Roses and Dead Hand. Dec. 16, 2 p.m.: Million Kids, Spoons, Panic Movement and the HI Z’s. Dec. 16: The Flytraps, Lecherous Gaze and Catholic Spit. Seven Grand 515 W. Seventh St., (213) 614-0737 or sevengrand.la. Dec. 10: At least you can replay all the great musical motifs of the John Daversa Small Band when you’re nursing your Tuesday morning hangover. Dec. 11: The Makers are the old faithful of improvisational jazz. Dec. 12: Lonely Avenue isn’t a metaphor for North Grand after dark, it’s an L.A. based folk blues band. The Smell 247 S. Main St., alley between Spring and Main streets, thesmell.org. Dec. 18: Moses Campbell, Nana Grizol, Your Heart Breaks and Gina Young. Dec. 19: The Lonely Trees, Brannigan’s Law, Hugh John Noble and the Action Index.

Downtown News 21

DowntownNews.com

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22 Downtown News

December 10, 2012

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maNagemeNt DrIvers Homes/UNfUrNIsHeD The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read newspaper for Downtown Los Angeles MArKeT reSeArCH Analyst: and is distributed every Monday throughout the offices of Downtown Los & regional commercial APPLY NOW,and 12 residences Drivers Needlocal Angeles. $950/MONTH 1bd/1ba,433 ed, Top 5% Pay & Late Model property sales & leasing reCottage Home equip. Guaranteed Home for search & analysis, etc. Must: One copy perSt.L.A.Hardwood person. Floors,Fwy View,Quiet,Free Xmas. Need CDL Class A DrivMaster degree & skills. F/T job: Parking,Laundry on Site. 818ing exp. 877-258-8782 www.adLA, CA. elat Properties. Fax: 716-7297. drivers.com (Cal-SCAN) 213-927-5200.

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citY Editor: Richard Guzmán stAFF writEr: Ryan Vaillancourt coNtributiNG Editor: Kathryn Maese OPerATIONS coNtributiNG CONSULTANT. writErs: Dave Denholm, Jeff Favre, MeDICAL BILLING Trainees mIsC. Items DONews YOU know your TestosterLostoAngeles Downtown Bachelors in anyGreg field plus 5 yrs.Kristin Friedrich, Howard Leff, Ryan E. Smith, needed! Train become a Fischer, one Levels? Call 888-904-2372 W. First Los Angeles, CA 90026 exp. in mgt/ operations analysis Medical Office1264 Assistant! NoStreet, exMarc Porter ZasadaFor Sale! Shoji Screen $25. and ask about our test kits and

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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 Editor & PublishEr: Sue Laris knowingly GENErAl accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. MANAGEr: Dawn Eastin All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an ExEcutivE Editor: Jon Regardie equal opportunity basis.

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Editor & PublishEr: Sue Laris GENErAl MANAGEr: Dawn Eastin

Los Angeles Downtown News 1264 W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 phone: 213-481-1448 fax: 213-250-4617 web: DowntownNews.com email: realpeople@downtownnews.com

facebook: L.A. Downtown News

twitter: DowntownNews

ExEcutivE Editor: Jon Regardie citY Editor: Richard Guzmán stAFF writEr: Ryan Vaillancourt coNtributiNG Editor: Kathryn Maese coNtributiNG writErs: Dave Denholm, Jeff Favre, Greg Fischer, Kristin Friedrich, Howard Leff, Ryan E. Smith, Marc Porter Zasada

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

Art dirEctor: Brian Allison AssistANt Art dirEctor: Yumi Kanegawa ProductioN ANd GrAPhics: Alexis Rawlins

The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read newspaper for Downtown Los Angeles and is distributed every Monday throughout the offices and residences of Downtown Los Angeles.

PhotoGrAPhEr: Gary Leonard

One copy per person.

December 10, 2012

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ANNOUNCEMENTS

Downtown News 23

DowntownNews.com dECEMBER 6, 2012 IN RE: K. URAGA, A MINOR CHILd BORN AUGUST 31, 2006. TO: JOSE ANTONIO URAGA Take notice notice that a pleading seeking relief against you has been filed in the aboveentitled action. The nature of the relief being sought as follows: Legitimation of a minor child. You are required to make defense to such pleading not later than January 19, 2013, said date being forty (40) days from first publication of this notice, and upon your failure to do to the Petitioner will apply to the court for the relief sought. This 5 day of December, 2012. Cecil L. Whitley, Attorney for Petitioner 305 N. Main Street Salisbury, NC 28144 Telephone: (704) 637-1111 State Bar No. 5889 Pub. 12/10, 12/17, 12/24/12 Fictitious Business nAme FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2012193506 The following person is doing business as: KISSA GROUP, 2316 Union Ave., #1, Los Angeles, CA 90007, are hereby registered by the following registrant: Vivi Tran Lynch, 940 E. 2nd St., #15, Los Angeles, CA 90012. 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 the County Clerk of Los Angeles on September 27, 2012. 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. 12/3, 12/10, 12/17, 12/24/12. FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT FILE NO. 2012224792 The following person is doing business as: Ax+Apple, 719 S. Los Angeles St., #506, CA 90014, are hereby registered by the following registrant: JAMIE DORFMAN, 1341-1/4 Harvard Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90027. This business is conducted by an individual. Registrants began to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein on October 1, 2012. This statement was filed with DEAN LOGAN, Los Angeles County Clerk on November 9, 2012. 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. 12/10, 12/17, 12/24. 12/31/2012.

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FELIX CHEVROLET

888-304-7039 3300 S. Figueroa St. • felixchevrolet.com

$12,995 $14,995 White/Gray, Must See. Will not last. UC353R / BS584988 2011 Chevy Mailbu LT ...................... $15,995 Silver/Gray, Auto, AC, ABS, 33mpg. UC350R / BF363765 2010 Chevy Cobalt Sedan ................ Silver/Gray, Low miles, Great condition. UC336R / A7185887

2011 Chevy HHR ...............................

Plus 198 More New & Used In Stock & On Sale!

DOWNTOWN LA MOTORS 888-319-8762 1801 S. Figueroa St. • mbzla.com

Mercedes-Benz

$24,991 Certified, Steel Gray/Silver, Low Miles. 121564-1 / 9F261711 $26,991 2010 Mercedes GLK 350 ................... $28,991 Certified, 3.5L V6, Gray/Gray, 29K Miles. 5945C / AF324695 2009 Mercedes C300 ........................ Certified, Mars Red, 34K Miles, 7spd. Auto. 6174C / 9R070114

2009 Mercedes CLK350 .....................

Plus 419 More New & Used In Stock & On Sale!

AUDI OF DOWNTOWN L.A. 888-583-0981 1900 S. Figueroa St. • audidtla.com

$24,449 2011 Audi A3 2.0T ............................. Certified, Turbo, Blk/Blk, Only 27K Miles. ZA10503/BA034784 $25,994 2010 Audi S5 Prestige ...................... Certified, Quattro, 4.2L V8, AWD, Blk/Blk. A13394-1/AA017933 $46,893 2010 Audi A4 2.0T ............................. Certified, Turbo, Auto, FWD, Gray/Blk. ZA10528/AN006404

Plus 116 More New & Used In Stock & On Sale!

PORSCHE OF DOWNTOWN L.A.

888-685-5426 1900 S. Figueroa St. • porschedowntownla.com

$36,898 2008 Porsche Carerra 4 .................... $52,988 Certified, White/Blk, Like New. P12385-2 / 88710489 2012 Porsche Panamera 4 Dr. ......... $73,898 Certified, 20” Whls., White/Beige, Only 7K miles. CL071270 2006 Porsche Cayman S ................... Certified, Tiptronic, Navi., Bose. 6U785082

Plus 112 More New & Used In Stock & On Sale!

24 Downtown News

December 10, 2012

Twitter/DowntownNews

Landscaping Continued from page 8 as a representation of the city is embarrassing.” Reset Button Recreation and Parks staffers are now doing basic landscape maintenance on a weekly basis, but most of the work needed to restore the planted areas has been deferred because the upgrades require additional planning, Adams said. The department budgeted about $125,000 for the basic maintenance for the fiscal year that runs through next June. The Bureau of Engineering is overseeing a major replanting that will begin by February, said Mahmood Karimzadeh, a principal architect with the bureau. The upgrade will entail ripping out all of the landscaping along Spring Street, replacing the soil and repopulating the area with new plant varieties. Since all the existing greenery will be removed, weeding it now would be a waste of labor, Karimzadeh said. That’s why the Bureau of Engineering has instructed the maintenance workers to ignore the Spring Street section for the time being. When the area is replanted, the rosemary will likely be re-

placed by a different, easier to maintain shrub. The grass, a wispy strain known as red fescue (it is green in color), will be swapped out for a more drought-tolerant variety, Karimzadeh said. Workers will also repair damaged irrigation equipment, replant some trees and reevaluate the health of others. Dying trees may be removed, he said. The decision to use different plants is driven primarily by Recreation and Parks officials and which varieties they have experience maintaining. Melani Smith, a partner at the landscape architecture firm Meléndrez, which designed the site, called the decision to replace the original plants “unfortunate.” “It’s hard to go back and evaluate the original plant choices because the stuff was never maintained to start with,” Smith said. “But if Rec and Parks is going to maintain it, we want them to have a palette that they’re at some level comfortable with and know how to take care of.” The work slated for early next year will include planting a new tree where the sycamore was sawed down, Karimzadeh said. The tree size and variety has not yet been determined. The Bureau of Engineering is currently awaiting bids from contractors vying to perform the landscape work. The cost is estimated at $300,000-$550,000, Karimzadeh said. Contact Ryan Vaillancourt at ryan@downtownnews.com.

Downtown, it’s not just big business anymore!

Grand Tower 255 south Grand avenue Leasing Information 213 229 9777

Promenade Towers 123 south Figueroa street Leasing Information 213 617 3777

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

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

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

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

Now For 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