2011 - 12 Miracle Mile Larchmont Chronicle by Larchmont Chronicle

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Larchmont Chronicle's

Miracle Mile 2011

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Larchmont Chronicle

24TH annual ediTion

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ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

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• Miracle Mile Chamber ....... 8 • New Restaurants ............. 10 • Miracle Mile Civic ............ 12 • Best of the Mile ............... 14 • TarFest ............................ 20 • Art Walk ........................... 23 • Schools ........................... 29

Promote Your Business through the Miracle Mile Chamber For Membership Information Call 323-964-5454 www.miraclemilechamber.org © LC0307

24TH annual edition

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Show business firms gravitate to Miracle Mile addresses By Stephanie Mar Guest columnist The Miracle Mile is home to some of the world’s most successful entertainment establishments and up-andcoming film and television enterprises. Even during this most recent economic downturn, while businesses folded and moved to other locations around southern California, the Miracle Mile area maintained its appeal to entertainment industry leaders who may consider the cost-to-benefit ratio of the area too hard to refuse. “Miracle Mile is an attractive market with a number of high quality buildings that provide excellent value relative to the more expensive adjacent areas of Beverly Hills and the Westside,” said Brendan Monaghan, Grubb & Ellis assistant vice president of commercial real estate services. From 2009 to 2010, the office vacancy rate, excluding sublease space, increased from 14.2 percent to 16.9 percent in the Miracle Mile-Park Mile market according to Grubb & Ellis’ Research Department. However, big entertainment names still moved in and reinstated residence. The economy hit Los Angeles County’s entertainment industry hard, facing a nearly 14 percent employment decline from 2004 to 2009 according to a report released by the Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation (LAEDC) in February. In the midst of the decline, Oprah Winfrey made headlines when she struck a deal on the Miracle Mile. The Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN), launched in January, nested in a part of Wilshire Courtyard’s nearly one million square feet of office space. In March 2010, Comcast Entertainment Group and its subsidiary E Entertainment Television Inc. announced it would continue renting in the Wilshire Courtyard after considering moving to less expensive parts of Los Angeles. Comcast signed a 10-year lease to stay at its Wilshire Courtyard offices and stu-

dios, which measures 355,000 square feet and takes up nearly five floors. “Our tenants like the low rise campus feeling of the buildings,” said Terri Reno, Wilshire Courtyard general manager. The two buildings are only five stories high, and many have balconies, Reno pointed out. “We are LEED Silver certified, making us environmentally friendly. And we go outside the box to satisfy tenants’ needs.” Ample parking, 24-hour security, a concierge and location are reasons firms select Museum Square for their offices. “Besides,” said Jerry Snyder, building owner, “we have six restaurants for dining options.” Screen Actors Guild may have paved the way for entertainment firms to choose Miracle Mile sites. SAG has been a tenant at Museum

Square, 5757 Wilshire Blvd., for more than 16 years. Recent additions include

MUSEUM SQUARE

Break Media, an Internet marketing company that moved from Beverly Hills.

A RREEF MEDIA/ENTERTAINMENT CAMPUS

Wilshire Courtyard is a million square foot creative office complex built around a beautifully landscaped courtyard and is located in the Miracle Mile. A park featuring a quarter-mile jogging track, children’s playground, koi pond and gazebo adjoins the building to the south.

Winner of BOMA’s Los Angeles “Building of the Year” award in 2000 & 2007 Winner of BOMA’s International “Building of the Year” award in 2008 LEED Silver Certified 2009 ENERGYSTAR Certified since 2006

Miracle Mile

For Leasing Information Please Call:

Brad Feld at Madison Partners at (310) 820-5959 A RREEF MEDIA/ENTERTAINMENT CAMPUS ©LC0311

Published by the Larchmont Chronicle 323-462-2241 The annual edition is delivered to residents, businesses and employees in the greater Miracle Mile area. It is also delivered to residents in Hancock Park, Windsor Square, Fremont Place, Park LaBrea and Larchmont Village, bringing the total readership to 100,000. COVER PHOTO: Bill Devlin Photography, billdevlinphotography.com.

5900 WILSHIRE

5700 and 5750 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles 90036

Magazine giant, Variety, resides down the street at 5900 (Please turn to page 8)

We would like to thank the following tenants for making Wilshire Courtyard their place of business: ASG Media, Inc. AEG Live American Income Boston University Brierley & Partners Courtyard Wellness Creative Circle Deli & Delites E! Entertainment Television East Court Cards & Gifts Entravision Communications First Entertainment Credit Union Fox Animation Glam Media Goethe-Institut IPG Lab Lagnese, Peyrot & Mucci Los Angeles Business Journal Manning, Leaver, Bruder & Berberich McCann Erickson/UM MEC/Ogilvy Mediabrands Meteor Worldwide Meridian’s Bodies in Motion MOJO LLC NBCUniversal OW Management OWN Rebel Entertainment Renewable Resources Group, Inc. Wenner Media The Weinstein Company World Poker Tour

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BMW's auto dealership opened this month. RESNICK PAVILION at LACMA. SEVEN STORY mixed-use development Wilshire Blvd. and La Brea Ave.

Opened BMW Beverly Hills. La Brea Ave., at Wilshire Blvd. 5550 Wilshire, Six-story, 163 apartments above groundfloor retail. L.A. Museum of the Holocaust, Pan Pacific Park Resnick Pavilion, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 45,000 square feet of galleries Farmers Market Storage, adjacent to The Grove

5550 WILSHIRE offers poolside amenities.

In Development Gilmore Station, Third St. at Fairfax Ave. 15,000 square foot single-story retail space anchored by Trader Joe's Casden Properties, Third Street Residences, 6298 W. Third St. 300-unit residences at Ross site

HOLOCAUST MUSEUM in Pan Pacific Park.

In Construction BRE Properties, Wilshire and La Brea Seven stories, 482-units, 40,000-square feet retail. District La Brea, 1st and 2nd streets; 90,000-square feet commercial complex

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The Craft and Folk Art Museum presents

January 23 - May 8, 2011

A sweeping threedimensional environment crafted entirely from yarn and custom-built furniture.

Upcoming workshop Make a Scarf with Tanya AguiĂąiga! Sunday | March 20 2:00-5:00pm â&#x20AC;˘ $60/$50 CAFAM Members Spend the afternoon learning about wool and felting techniques with Tanya and design a unique scarf. Registration required at www.cafam.org or email: workshops@cafam.org

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Mid City West Council’s focus is land use, transportation Transportation issues, planning and land use have been at the forefront of the Mid City West Community Council’s (MCWCC) agenda over the past year. They will remain at the top of the list over the upcoming months, according to board chairman Jeff Jacobberger. Planning and land use The Council reviews applications to ensure that new development is compatible with the neighborhood. “We have strengthened our efforts to promote stakeholder participation, including requiring applicants to provide notice of our meetings to all residents within 500 feet of a project and posting application-related documents on our website,” said Jacobberger. Efforts are focused at making commercial districts more pedestrian-oriented, particularly on Wilshire Blvd., La Brea and Fairfax avenues, where future subway stations are planned. “We’ll continue to monitor the proposed Casden project (a 300-unit development) at Third St. and Ogden Ave. to ensure that the design is pedestrian-oriented and sensitive to Hancock Park Elementary School,” he added.

COUNCIL MEMBERS, from left, Bob Abrahams, Jeff Jacobberger, and Nancy Vimia manned a booth at the National Night Out event at Poinsettia Park in August.

The Planning and Land Use Committee is also focused on long-term planning and will review the Environmental Impact Report for the Hollywood Community Plan update that will be released soon. “We have formed a working group of residents and businesses to develop a long-term vision for W. Third St. and possibly a special planning district,” Jacobberger said. Transportation The transportation, parking

and streetscape committee is closely following the Westside subway extension and Wilshire peak hour bus lane proposals, both of which the Council has voted to support. It will also work with Metro on the Station Area Advisory Groups that are being established to address design issues around the Fairfax and La Brea stations. MCWCC also continues to work to make the neighborhood more bicycle-friendly. “We developed a plan for a net-

Where

BigareIdeas explored through

6505 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 323.761.8989 • zimmermuseum.org

©LC0311

interactive play

work of bike lanes and routes museums and restaurants. in and around the neighbor- The event is a joint effort of hood, and will ensure that it is MCWCC, LACMA and the included in the new LA Bicycle many museums and galleries Plan,” said Jacobberger. "That along the Miracle Mile and La plan will soon be adopted by Brea Ave. Public safety the City Council, and we will MCWCC will sponsor a advocate for implementation of bikeways on streets the plan Community Response Training identifies as top priorities, (CERT) course beginning this including the 4th St. Bicycle month. “We work closely with Blvd., Hauser/Martel and San the L.A. police and fire departments on public safety and Vicente Blvd.," he added. MCWCC partnered with I. emergency preparedness isMartin Bicycles on Beverly sues,” said Jacobberger. More than 400 community Blvd. to hold a free bike safety check and group ride at the members participated in a CicLAvia event last October. National Night Out Against Crime event in In addition, Poinsettia Park in the Council August co-hosted is organizing by Mid City West, a Bike Day he added. with the L.A. Communications County Art Jacobberger Museum for said residents can the fall. stay informed of Arts and these and other recreation Mid City issues The group through the counwill contincil’s website at ue to build midcitywest.org. community "It has been events, includenhanced to allow ing the quarour stakeholders terly Miracle to receive reguMile Art Walk which brings THE COUNCIL hosts the lar e-mail updates attention to the quarterly Miracle Mile Art about meetings and other events. area’s galleries, Walks.

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open daily kids 4 and under are free

it’s sticky. it’s gooey. it’s in the heart of L.A.

Inside, see huge mammoths and ﬁerce saber-toothed cats that became trapped in asphalt and then unearthed by Museum scientists, right before your eyes in the Fishbowl Lab. Outside, view the actual tar pits, stroll through a real Ice Age Garden and watch excavators at work unveiling new discoveries at Project 23.

tarpits.org

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show business Firms gravitate to area (Continued from page 3) Wilshire Blvd. The magazine’s headquarters, featuring a red neon Variety logo at the building’s top, has been an icon of the area since its first lighting ceremony in 2008. Building managers, The Ratkovich Company, credits the location and community with entertainment’s Miracle Mile loyalty and continuing interest. “The Miracle Mile is a really convenient and accessible location, particularly in a city where drive times are increasing…its proximity to most other parts of the city makes Miracle Mile one of Los Angeles’ preeminent business destinations,” said Clare DeBriere, Ratkovich Company’s executive vice president and chief operating officer. “Miracle Mile is home to some of the best restaurants and best museums in the world. One of the city’s largest residential projects, Park La Brea, as well as one of the most successful retail centers, The Grove, are both located in Miracle Mile. All of these elements make it a unique and easy place to work.” A boost in entertainment job growth may bode well for the entertainment capital’s Miracle Mile Mecca. The LAEDC projects a nine percent job increase

Larchmont Chronicle

24TH annual edition

WILSHIRE COURTYARD

through 2014, increasing demand for entertainment office space in Los Angeles County. The Miracle Mile will continue to be competitive throughout this growth, perhaps due to building managements’ stellar practices. Management companies in the area offer competitive amenities, making this bit of Los Angeles history a hot spot for entertainment firms. Sandra Bernath, founder of Bleu An Entertainment Company, cited convenience and fair pricing as the reasons why her company moved to the area three years ago from Century City. It was, however, the custom-built offices prepared by the management that sealed the deal.

“It was the right space at the right price,” said Bernath. “Our goal is to make our tenants feel like they are part of a unique club,” De Briere said of the special services The Ratkovich Company provides to their lessees. “We go out of our way to provide an outstanding physical environment and amenities that create a really exceptional experience for our tenants.” Others who bear Miracle Mile addresses include Spelling Productions, Screen Actors Guild (SAG), American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA), Hollywood Reporter, Millennium Entertainment and CBS Radio.

Location a favorite of residents; MMRA celebrates its 28th year By Suzan Filipek Things might seem quiet on the home front, says Jim O’Sullivan, president of the Miracle Mile Residential Association. “But they’re bubbling under the surface.” Residents’ concerns are focused on the city budget deficit, and how that will affect police and fire among other city services. The group, celebrating its 28th year, keeps in touch with the L.A. Police Dept. Wilshire Division. Members have been trained to report suspicious cars and people, leading to a few arrests. Representatives at City Council District 4 and CD-10 are also contacted regularly regarding quality-of-life issues. These include making sure potholes are filled and street lights are working. When asked what they liked most about living in the mile in a recent survey, the majority (57 percent) said “location.” The area certainly has its charms. An upscale restaurant planned at 5900 Wilshire Blvd. will add even more panache to the area. “We’re excited about it,” said

O’Sullivan. The restaurant, planned across from the L.A. County Museum of Art, is in the development stages. Inside LACMA, Ray’s & Stark Bar opened this month. There’s the recently opened BMW showroom and a host of other new sites calling the Mile home, O’Sullvan added. Business interests include keeping the fleet of popular lunch trucks that descend on the Mile before noon parked at the Museum Row end of Wilshire Blvd, away from sitdown restaurants. O’Sullivan also watches to see that traffic on Wilshire keeps moving during rush hour, all-the-while there is parking available for merchant customers. The Association counts several hundred among its membership. The annual meeting is held in the fall. Board meetings are on the first Thursday of the month at Berch Lounge, Westside Jewish Community Center, 5870 Olympic Blvd. MMRA boundaries are Wilshire Blvd. on the north, La Brea on the east; San Vicente (Hauser to Fairfax) at the south and Fairfax Ave. on the west. For more information, visit miraclemilela.com

24TH annual edition

Larchmont Chronicle

Miracle Mile 2011 9

OPENS May 29

Tim Burton

Join LACMA today for free tickets! Call 323 857-6151 and use promo code LC311 to guarantee your benefits.

Los Angeles County Museum of ART 5905 WILSHIRE BLVD (AT FAIRFAX AVE) |LACMA.ORG This exhibition was organized by The Museum of Modern Art, New York.

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Silverton’s Short Order, Ray’s and 5900 are on the menu Dining never looked so good. Milers will have their choice of Sonoma-fed beef burgers to wood-fired Mediterranean cuisine at new restaurants. Ray’s restaurant & Stark Bar opens March 3 at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Executive chef Kris Morningstar whips up a host of dishes from the wood-burning oven and wood grill. A separate menu is in the adjoining Stark Bar, but both locales serve seasonal cocktails, a Californiacentric wine list, and artisan beers and spirits. The Patina Restaurant Group site is designed by Renzo Piano, the same architect who created LACMA’s new look. Ray’s is named in honor of Ray Stark, a supporter of the arts and former LACMA trustee. A film producer, his movies included “Funny Girl” and “Steel Magnolias.” The restaurant is open for lunch from noon to 3 p.m. and dinner from 5 to 10 p.m. every day except Wednesday. Stark Bar is open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day except Wednesday. Valet parking is available. 5900 Wilshire The Ratkovich Company plans a 219-seat indoor, and

DINING SOON AT THE East Satellite building.

84-patio dining restaurant at its East Satellite Building, at 5900 Wilshire Blvd. Across from LACMA, the restaurant will feature a full menu, bar and Sunday brunch and happy hours, said Clare DeBriere, executive vice president and COO of the Ratkovich Co. Locals can walk to the site, which will also offer self parking and valet service. Construction is set to begin later this year. Nancy Silverton, Amy Pressman and Bill Chait are slated to open Short Order in June in the Farmer’s Market at 6333 W. Third St. The fast food hamburger joint is anything but. The menu offers Sonoma grass-fed beef burgers cooked

RAY’S was named after a LACMA donor and film producer.

on wood burning grills. Pork, lamb, fish and tofu will be topped with homemade condiments and served with appetizers, salads and desserts baked on the premises. Custard-based milkshakes, artisan beers on tap and California wines will be served. Architect Osvaldo Maiozzi designed the counter and patio dining.

Build your burger at The Counter The Counter specializes in high-quality burgers. You can build your own burger with a selection of burgers, cheeses, toppings, sauces and buns. The Miracle Mile-

CUSTOM-STYLE burgers are at The counter.

based branch opened last fall in Museum Square. The owners have opened 18 locations in

Southern California, and more around the rest of the country plus Ireland and Australia.

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District La Brea opens stores in historic setting

RENDERING shows plans for the one-story retail complex. The signage doesn't indicate future tenants.

Trader Joe's to open at new Gilmore Station complex Trader Joe's will open a 15,000 square foot store at the new Gilmore Station retail complex at the northwest corner of Third St. and Fairfax Ave. Planned to open later this year, the development will also include a Blizz Frozen Yogurt store and three additional businesses to be announced. A restaurant is expected to occupy the 2,500 square foot corner site. Gilmore Station is on land that has been owned by the A. F. Gilmore Co. for more than 100 years. The company opened the neighboring Farmers Market in 1934. Mark Panatier, vice president of the Gilmore Co., said “We have taken great care to ensure that the architectural design of Gilmore Station

and the quality of businesses and products offered matches the vibrancy of the Fairfax District.”

Pothole repair set for Wilshire The bumpy ride that motorists are subjected to along Wilshire Blvd. will be smoothed out when pothole repair begins. Tom LaBonge said he and fellow Councilmember Herb Wesson have asked Dept. of Public Works, Bureau of Street Services, to identify areas critically in need of repair. A cost estimate for those repairs has been drawn up. Work will be conducted on weekends, said LaBonge.

There’s a bit of SoHo moving west, to District La Brea. Phase one is complete of the 90,000-square foot complex of 11 buildings on La Brea Ave., between first and second streets. Tenants are attracted to the historic setting in the same way SoHo in New York draws “tenants looking to launch new brands, or tenants looking for larger spaces with environmental features (i.e. high ceilings, light industrial spaces, concrete floors) versus a vanilla shell, typical retail space,” according to Whitney Livingston, vice president of management and marketing services. Already opened are Abandoned Treasures (discounts from shopping icon American Rag across the street) and men’s fashion flagship store Feal Mor, which features surfing and nauticalinspired wear by designer J. P. Plunier. The mixed-use retail, restaurant and office space, three-story building is getting a facelift by Long Beach-based architect Studio One Eleven. The 1930s building’s wood truss ceilings and exposed brick and steel beams are being restored as part of the efforts to modernize the prop-

DETAIL OF A BILLBOARD on site shows former tenant Continental Graphics ; rendering of new building is below.

erty. Washington D.C.-based developer Madison Marquette plans to have 20 boutiques and restaurants on the first level with creative office space upstairs A Ford Edsel dealership was based here in the 1950s. Later Continental Data Graphics, whose clients included Boeing, moved in. A 140-space, three-story parking structure will be on the corner of Second St. and La Brea as well as a 45-space parking lot at First St. and La Brea.

Helpful phone numbers offered: • Abandoned vehicle, 800-ABANDON • Building and Safety, 213368-7528 • Housing Complaints for building violations for residential units larger than a duplex, 213-847-7845 • Burned out street lights, 800-303-5267 • Dead animal pick-up, 213485-4906; • Graffiti removal, 323-4635180; • Parking Enforcement, 213-485-4184; • Bureau of Sanitation, 800773-2489.

Saluting and Celebrating the Residents, Businesses and Community of

I am Honored to be Your Councilmember

Miracle Mile

And Represent

The Miracle Mile

PAUL KORETZ

Tom LaBonge Los Angeles 4th District City Councilmember and Staff (213)485-3337 www.tomlabonge.com

213-473-7005

Paid for by Paul Koretz Officeholder ID#1300860 555 S. Flower St. Ste 4210 Los Angeles, CA 90071

©LC0310

Councilmember, 5th District City of Los Angeles paul.koretz@lacity.org

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Civic Association’s goal is revitalization of the Mile In just 25 years the Miracle Mile Civic Coalition has chalked up many successes. These include maintaining and enhancing the Wilshire Blvd. median, upgrading the area’s parks, and promoting emergency preparedness for businesses and residents. The volunteer civic group has launched an Adopt a Fire Station program, providing much needed amenities for firefighters. MMCC’s Good Hearts Awards have recognized the outstanding service by leaders in the community. The “United We Plant” program with LA/Hollywood Beautification has been responsible for the addition of hundreds of new trees within the Miracle Mile environs. Lyn MacEwen Cohen, Association founder and president, said, “For a quarter of a century, we are honored to partner with our visionary government officials, corporate good neighbors, extraordinary museums and restaurants and dedicated residential leaders to accomplish together the revitalization of historic Miracle Mile. “Since our founding in April 1986, as a mutual benefit cor-

poration, we have always tried to work with respect for all and with ‘the spirit of cooperation.’ “Our future vitality and resilience in these challenging times depend fundamentally on our envisioning Miracle Mile as a friendly hometown where people know and like each other, where public service is a way of life.” Current projects include the continual maintaining of the Wilshire Blvd. median landscaping, including the electrical and irrigation components. The Association, with the donations from BRE and Legacy development firms, is overseeing the replacement of the historic “Miracle Mile” gateway sign. The sign, at La Brea Ave. and Wilshire Blvd., was destroyed when it was demolished by a hit and run driver. Tree planting honoring victims of 9/11, and support of local fire stations are longtime programs of MMCC. The group has also spearheaded emergency preparedness seminars with officials form Homeland Security and the FBI representatives as speakers.

PHOTO OP. Convening at a recent meeting of the MMCC officers are, front row, Wally Marks III, Terri Reno; back row, Jim O'Sullivan, Jane Gilman, Jerry Snyder, Marc Cohen, Lyn MacEwen Cohen and John Vach with their best friends. ONE OF THE Association's current projects is the reproduction and installation of the 1940s neon sign.

Prestigious Miracle Mile Offices Mira cle Mile T o wer HIGHRISE WITH EXCEPTIONAL VIEWS.

22 story highrise in the heart of the Miracle Mile Entertainment District. Offices start on the 7th floor and offer spectacular views of the Hollywood Hills and the Pacific Ocean. The building’s window lines allow for unobstructed views of the surrounding area.

Recent renovations and common area upgrades. Building signage is available.

JAMISON 5455 WILSHIRE, LLC. Miracle Mile Chamber of Commerce Member

323-931-0882

5455 Wilshire Boulevard

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‘Miracle Mile Days’ designed to showcase area’s new look Up until the 1960s Miracle Mile was a shoppers’ mecca. Department stores lining Wilshire Blvd. include Coulter’s (later The Broadway), Desmonds’s, Silverwoods, Harris & Frank, Donavan and Seaman, Lanz and the May Company. The area was considered the suburbs, and contained branches of many downtown stores. The Art Deco buildings featured POSTCARD of an earlier era when the Mile was a shopper's paradise. huge windows for distreasures here,” said Stephen the group also will be working play, and ample parking to accommodate the surge Kramer, Chamber president. with Metro workshops on the The special “Days” will cli- subway station design. in car ownership. Gradually, those stores max with the opening of Tar closed, leaving gaping holes in Fest, an entertainment venue Chamber to hear highlighting local artists and the retail availability. Mayor Villaraigosa The Miracle Mile Chamber musicians. of Commerce is revitalizing Tar Fest, in its ninth year, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa the area with its month-long utilizes Hancock County Park will be speaking to members “Miracle Mile Days” from Sat., as will as the Korean Cultural of the Miracle Mile Chamber Aug. 27 to Sun., Sep. 25 to sa- Center to showcase emerging of Commerce on Mon., March 21, beginning at 11:30 a.m. at lute the new mix of businesses talent. The Chamber holds monthly the Ratkovich building, 5900 that now call the area home. The event will promote the luncheon meetings at restau- Wilshire Blvd. Lunch will be restaurants, shops, services rants throughout the area. served following the Mayor’s and cultural institutions in “It’s an opportunity for mem- talk. Cost is $20 for Chamber the area including Farmers bers to network,” said Kramer. members; $25 for non-mem Several Wilshire Corridor bers. Reservations are necesMarket and The Grove. “We invite the public to ex- forums, sponsored by the sary. Call 323-964-5454 or pand their horizons as they Chamber, have studied the fu- email info@miraclemilechamexplore, shop and enjoy all the ture of the area. Kramer said ber.org.

Larchmont Chronicle

Metro work on station route, designs underway Metro is one step closer to extending the Purple Line to the westside. Currently, soil and seismic tests are being conducted along the route that stretches from Western Ave. to Santa Monica. Noise and vibration are also being tested at more than 200 locations along the planned alignment. The data collected will assist in determining the exact route the project will take, said Jody Litvak, Metro communications manager. Metro (Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority) is hosting station area advisory meetings intended to provide community input to Metro subway planners on potential urban design and other features at each proposed station during the early phases of the Westside Subway Extension The route is one of Metro’s priority projects. It will provide a highPURPLE LINE SUBWAY capacity, highspeed, dependable alternative for those traveling to L.A.’s “second downtown” that includes key destinations such as Miracle Mile, Beverly Hills, Century City and Westwood, including the UCLA campus. More than 300,000 people travel into the Westside every day for work from areas throughout the County and beyond. The Westside Subway Extension project is slated to receive partial funding from Measure R, approved by voters in November 2008. These local funds will be used to seek federal “New Starts” matching funds. Completion of the final Environmental Impact Report and preliminary engineering will make the project eligible to compete for these funds.

24TH annual edition

Larchmont Chronicle

Miracle Mile 2011 15

THE MIRACLE MILE CIVIC COALITION 8758 Venice Boulevard • Los Angeles, California 90034

Civic Philanthropy

FOUNDED 1986 OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD Walter N. Marks, III Walter N. Marks, Inc. FOUNDER-PRESIDENT Lyn MacEwen Cohen Vice President Jerome H. Snyder J. H. Snyder Co. Vice President Jim O’ Sullivan Miracle Mile Residential Assoc. Vice President John X. Vach Security & public Safety Wilshire Courtyard Secretary Greg Holihan prime Group park La Brea Historian Jane Gilman Larchmont Chronicle Treasurer Terri Reno Transwestern

MEMBERS American Girl Place Los Angeles BRE PROPERTIES BREATHE California of LA County CarrAmerica/5670 Wilshire Blvd. Caruso Affiliated Holdings/The Grove Cathedral Chapel School Farmers Insurance A. F. Gilmore Company Larchmont Chronicle LA/Hollywood Beautification Team LA City Fire Station 61 / Battalion 18 LA County Museum of Art LA Craft & Folk Art Museum LA Museum of the Holocaust Legacy Partners Walter N. Marks, Inc. Miracle Mile Chamber of Commerce Miracle Mile Residential Association MidCity West C. Council Natural History Museum of LA County Olympia Medical Center Page Museum at La Brea Tar Pits Petersen Automotive Museum PLB Management/Prime Group/ Park La Brea Screen Actors Guild Screen Actors Guild Foundation Sieroty Company Inc. J. H. Snyder Company The ARTery, USA The Counter The Original Farmers Market The Ratkovich Company The Wende Museum Tiger West Capitol/5410 Wilshire Transwestern Wilshire Community Police Advisory Board Wilshire Courtyard

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25 Years of Promises Kept “UNITED WE pLANT” with LApD and LA/Hollywood Beautification Team”

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• Miracle Mile Safety Summit on Emergency Preparedness & Homeland Security – Ready or Not! • Museum Row on Miracle Mile • Restaurant Row on Miracle Mile • Community Design Overlay District • Museum Partnership to Protect Hancock Park • Monitor Wilshire Transportation • Valentine GoodHearts Awards • Romancing the Miracle Mile • BeeFriendly Gardens

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16 Miracle Mile 2011

24TH annual edition

Larchmont Chronicle

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An oasis within a city Every Convenience is offered in the 160-acre site Park La Brea, called an oasis in the midst of a big city, features open green spaces, parks, fountains and colorful landscaping. The tower apartments offer spectacular views, and garden apartments share a common green space. Activities center The multi-million dollar Activities Center adjacent to Curson Square offers residents an opportunity to get in shape, surf the web, view classic movies and eat at the outdoor café. The Meeting Rooms and a Conference Room are available for rental by the residents for private parties and meetings. Movies are screened in the 84-seat theater. Residents can find all the amenities of a business office including a conference room, computers, a fax and scanner. Fitness center The Fitness Center, operated by Meridian Sports Club, provides a range of exercise options with windows facing the greenery of Curson Square. Equipment includes recumbent bicycles, strength machines, free-weights and cardio equipment.

The fountain at Burnside Circle is in the center of a park with a coffee/refreshment bar.

corPorAte APArtments

Short-term stays with Long-term conveniences The Park La Brea Corporate Apartments provide the luxury of a temporary home completely furnished with housewares and the availability of maid service and cable television. Movie and television personnel, families who are relocating or renovating their homes, and people waiting for escrows to close are among those taking advantage of the tastefully furnished one, two or three-bedroom corporate suites. These suites offer all the comforts of home instead of the impersonal atmosphere of a hotel room.

For more information call Kim rudy, corporate housing specialist, 323-549-2949.

residents’ Amenities These include the convenience of an on-site dry cleaners, beauty salon and video rental store. The Park La Brea Residents Association sponsors activities including a Book Discussion Group, Bridge Club, Brush Up Your Shakespeare, English as a Second Language, Library, Writers Circle, Community Garden, Chess Club, Kids’ Art Club, Mah Jongg, Quilters and T’ai Chi. The gated community enables the residents to take leisurely walks or combine exercise with strolling. Exercisers are out early in the morning, power walking their chosen routes or doing laps in one of our fabulous swimming pools. Park La Brea is fiber optically “wired” so that residents enjoy both high-speed Internet access and state-of-the-art cable services. swimming Pools A junior Olympic-size swimming pool features four lanes for swimmers in a tropical style setting near the Sixth St. entrance at Curson Ave. The pool area has an adjoining spa, sun deck and individual locker and shower facilities for men and women. In addition, a second saltwater pool and expanded pool deck with cabanas opened in spring 2009. The Meridian Sports Club manages memberships and day-to-day operations in its role as joint partner for Park La Brea’s fitness center and pool facilities.

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shoPPing & entertAinment The Grove and Farmers Market are just steps away. They both offer a variety of shops and restaurants. The Grove boasts a movie theater, restaurants and premiere shops. Farmers Market offers food stalls, restaurants, boutiques and weekend entertainment. vAriety oF clAsses The Westside Community Adult School offers instruction in everything from art, ceramics, Mommy and Me and yoga at the Park La Brea location. The fundamentals of drawing, painting and mixed media are taught at the Park La Brea Art Center. Computer literacy is also taught in classes ranging from beginning to advanced. Two sparkling saltwater pools.

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Residents support the Miracle Mile community

By Marina Muhlfriedel Guest columnist An urban gardening teacher, a Manhattan transplant, a film producer and a radio personality all call Miracle Mile home. Here are their stories.

longer I lived here, the more people I got to know and, at a certain point, it starts to feel like a family. What I really love is how neighbors look out for each other, picking up flyers, mail, walking each other’s dogs. I hope we can hold on to that with the pressure of more and more buildings in the area.” Cassidy is fond of strolling through the community with her dog Jack, a “mostly poodle.” “Miracle Mile has changed a lot since I moved here—it’s

in the thick of community discussions, always strives to keep it light and friendly. “I first moved here in 1991, and I got involved with the MMRA because the person who was our block rep asked me to cover while he was out of town,” recalls Cassidy, who works as the casting director for Garry Marshall’s Falcon Theater in Burbank. “I had come from New York which is very different, you didn’t know your neighbors the way you get to know your neighbors here. I learned that the

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With a broad smile and quick clip to her footsteps and speech, Manhattan transplant Alice Cassidy brightens the room as she enters. With at least six years as vice-president of the Miracle Mile Residential Association, she’s the one who,

Miracle Mile Chamber of Commerce Welcomes

ALICE CASSIDY

become much more of a destination”, she says. “We have to figure out how to deal with the traffic and infrastructure as it grows. We want to keep it a friendly neighborhood.”

Mayor antonio Villaraigosa March 21st, 2011

uses his second bedroom as a studio. “I can do auditions for voiceovers or commercials from home,” he said. Kelly takes advantages of Park La Brea’s fitness center, and he walks to The Grove, Whole Foods and sometimes to his CBS studio on Wilshire Blvd., only a few blocks away. “I really don’t need a car, and, if I do, my appointments are within a 20-minute radius.” A hobby is collecting memorabilia about old television series. One of his favorites is “The Fugitive” whose beginning scene was filmed on Larchmont Blvd. Kelly and his wife Linda have two grown children—Melanie, a registered nurse, and Nick, a computer specialist for the U.S. Navy. The nickname “Shotgun” doesn’t indicate he is a marksman—it’s the result of a ra-

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On many boards

Korean-born filmmaker Jimmy Lee, a resident of the Mile for 15 years, has made it a priority to stay involved with the community he loves. A member of the Miracle Mile Residential Association since he moved into the area, Lee also spent six years as the MCWCC (Mid City West Community Council) member for Miracle Mile, and is the president of The Korean Motion Picture Association of America, which bridges the way for young Koreans who aspire to become involved with the Hollywood film industry. He is also on the board of directors of the Los Angeles Korean Festival

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... they enjoy small-town friendliness studying theater arts and cinema before finding his way into the film industry as an independent producer and director. “The first movie I made was in 1990, a mystery thriller, “Hanging Heart,” he notes. Between his community and film production commitments, Lee also runs the Express Bistro dancing club at Wilshire and Cloverdale boulevards. “This is a neighborhood everyone is proud of, and I have so much respect for the people here who put in so many hours every week to serving the community.”

she met there. Although her parents each grew up on farms, Trigo was raised locally in Lakewood. “I’ve always been a weekend gardener and had my first in-ground organic garden in

Design on Beverly Blvd., the idea began to take root. Trigo had learned about the ease of container gardening and wanted to share it with the world. Now, on alternating Mondays and for special events, she coaches urban gardeners in the highly gratifying process. On Sun., March 13, the

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Foundation, which hosts a festival on Olympic Blvd. each September. “Because I live here, I like to devote myself to the community,” explains Lee who has raised two daughters in the neighborhood. “Miracle Mile is a beautiful place and a great neighborhood. People come and stay for a long time. “ Jimmy first moved to California from Seoul 30 years ago, attending UCLA and later Columbia College Hollywood,

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Tucked on a quiet street in Miracle Mile is Jo Anne Trigo’s Two Dog Nursery, an urban Eden of organic vegetables, herbs, flowers and berries. There, with the support of her husband Alejandro, Trigo teaches classes on container gardening in their backyard, and grows thousands of seedlings to sell at farmers’ markets in La Canada–Flintridge and Westlake Village. While she was previously at the Larchmont Farmers Market, Trigo departed for lack of adequate space, but maintains a close relationship with many of the customers

nursery will host an heirloom tomato season kickoff and food drive to benefit the L.A. Regional Food Bank. Then, on Sun., April 17, Trigo will give a talk on container gardening at The Getty House as part of the Windsor Square–Hancock Park Historical Society Garden Party.

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TarFest to bring art and culture in the Fall

Residents, employees vote for the ‘Best of the Mile’ Looking for the best coffee Luna Park and Tom Bergin’s shop in Miracle Mile? How Tavern. about the best happy hour and The best food truck in the place to hear music? Check out the hot spots chosen by members of the community who were quizzed on their favorite places. The coffee shop that earned the HAPPY HOUR at the Whisper Lounge got rave reviews. most praise is Black Dog Coffee at 5657 Wilshire Blvd., which area is Kimchi #21, and the also offers a breakfast and best place to hear music is the lunch menu. Other notable El Rey Theatre, 5515 Wilshire coffee shops in the area in- Blvd. clude Massimo’s Mud Spot, Topping the list of best Arrosto Coffee and Starbucks. Happy Hours are the Whisper Two museums were named Lounge at The Grove, and best museum gift shop on Busby’s at 5364 Wilshire Blvd. the mile: the Craft and Folk Other notable happy hours Art Museum at 5814 Wilshire receiving votes were Little Blvd., and the Los Angeles Bar, El Toro and Tom Bergin’s County Museum of Art at 5905 Tavern. Wilshire Blvd. Two restaurants are noted as As far as the best restaurant the best place to have a romanis concerned, the feedback var- tic dinner: Campanile at 624 ies from Starfish Sushi at 5600 S. La Brea Ave., and Luna Park Wilshire Blvd., to Wood Ranch at 672 S. La Brea Ave. Other BBQ & Grill at The Grove. favorites include Ca’Brea, Additional favorites in Miracle Maggiano’s and Marcel French Mile include Campanile, Bistro. Callender’s, Maggiano’s,

The ninth annual TarFest will provide entertainment and cultural happenings during the latter part of the inaugural month-long Miracle Mile Days event in the Fall to celebrate businesses, restaurants, cultural institutions and residents of the neighborhood. Considered the premiere arts and culture event in the Miracle Mile community, TarFest attracts more than 150 artists and performers

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Larchmont Chronicle

24TH annual ediTion

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THE LAUNCH venue at 5900 Wilshire Blvd. hosted a TarFest sculpture and installation exhibition last year.

annually as well as thousands of Angelinos of all ages to the one-mile stretch of Wilshire Blvd. between Sycamore and Fairfax avenues. At TarFest, produced by LAUNCH LA, the best emerging artists, performers, musicians and cultural innovators will come together to showcase their talents and ideas at historic and notable venues along the Miracle Mile, said TarFest and LAUNCH LA executive director James Panozzo. “TarFest has proudly evolved over the last nine years along with the Miracle Mile District into a complex hybrid of

what makes Los Angeles special,” added Panozzo. “We are thrilled to include our unique cultural programming as part of the Miracle Mile Days celebration of our community.” This year’s event will take place over several weekends in the fall with diverse programming and special production partnerships. The TarFest Art Exhibition will be held at the Korean Cultural Center from Fri., Sept. 16 through Thurs., Sept. 29. To participate, or for information about TarFest events, venues and sponsors, go online at www.tarfest.com

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24TH annual ediTion

Miracle Mile 2011 21

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Variety of aromas draw a loyal base of customers to food trucks First there was the Kogi barbecue food truck, then the Grilled Cheese truck and soon eight or 10 of the food wagons would descend on Wilshire Blvd. in Miracle Mile. They found an eager audience in the area and have become daily visitors along the boulevard. “They provide both local residents and employees a real choice,” said Steven Armstrong who writes a food column for the Larchmont Chronicle. Whether you want Korean barbecue wings, sushi or Greek food, the trucks offer a variety,

often at bargain prices. While the trucks have built a loyal fan base from the area lunchtime crowd, restaurant owners are losing business to the trucks. “But there is room for both trucks and restaurants in Miracle Mile,” Armstrong said. “I see the new restaurants, like The Counter and Chipotle, are doing very well.” At one time the trucks were in front of the Wilshire Courtyard buildings, right across from the five restaurants at Museum Square. The lineup of seven to 10

vehicles mars the beauty of our building, said Roxana Ferguson, 5900 Wilshire building manager. “But it is also an amenity for our tenants because it does offer them choices.” The area’s city councilman, Tom LaBonge, has been working to find a solution. “At the Transportation Committee hearing on Feb. 23rd, the Task Force that was formed to come up with ideas for the possible regulation of mobile food vendors will report on some of the findings of their many working group ses-

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sions on the matter,” LaBonge said. He will review these findings with the appropriate city staff, including the city Department of Transportation,

the City Attorney’s office and the LAPD. In the next 30-45 days he plans to meet in the Wilshire Corridor area with all interested parties to weigh the Task Force recommendations.

Directory of elected officials Sen. Barbara Boxer Ph: 213-894-5000 www.boxer.senate.gov Sen. Dianne Feinstein Ph: 310-914-7300 www.feinstein.senate.gov House of Representatives Karen Bass Ph: 323-965-1422 www.karenbass.house. gov/ Assemblymember Holly J. Mitchell Ph: 310-342-1070 asmdc.org/members/a47/ Assemblyman Mike Feuer Ph: 310-285-5490 www.democrats.assembly.ca.gov/members/a42

County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky 500 W. Temple St. Rm. 821, 90012 Ph: 213-974-3333 www.zev.lacounty.gov Councilman Tom LaBonge Los Angeles City Hall 200 N. Spring St., Rm. 480 90012 Ph: 213-485-3337 Hollywood Field Office Ph: 323-957-6415 www.tomlabonge.com Councilman Paul Koretz 200 N. Spring St., 90012 Rm. 440 Ph: 213-473-7005 Field Office 822 S. Robertson Blvd., Ste. 102, 90035 Ph: 310-289-0353 www.cd5.lacity.org

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Quarterly Art Walk boasts more galleries, new banners, parties The Miracle Mile Art Walk was introduced by the Mid City West Community Council in 2005 and has since grown to entertains thousands of attendees. In addition to AN OPENING reception recently at the the Los Angeles Clark Oshin Gallery. County Art Museum, 40 venues within four square which sponsored 25 new banners and miles from Wilshire to Melrose stands, other supporters in- and La Brea to La Cienega. The event includes gallery clude the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council, Bear openings, exhibitions, artist Flag Wine, Fusicology and talks, complimentary rides on THEMOJAMOJA.COM, as L.A.’s Holly Trolly, live music well as Farmers Market Self- and free entry to after parties. Gallery receptions in January Storage, which donates space to store the Art Walk banners. were at The Loft at Liz’s and “We are grateful to receive at the ArtSpace Warehouse. Toby C. Moss Gallery hosted such generous support for our tours of the “Fantastic Visions/ community from our comExploring Intaglio” exhibimunity art walk from these longstanding cultural and tions; a closing reception at historical institutions of Los LAUNCH featured works by Angeles,” said MCWCC first Dori Atlantis, Libby Gerber, vice chair and arts and recre- Brad Howe and Pat Quinn. Attendees were also admitation committee board memted free to LACMA. ber Bruce McCormick. Upcoming Art Walks are The Art Walk and Gallery scheduled for April 16, July 16 Tours take place four times a and Oct. 15. For a schedule go year on the first Saturday of the to miraclemileartwalk.com. month and feature more than

‘Date Farmers’ artwork showcased in Ace Gallery By Stephanie Mar The 30,000 square feet of space at the Ace Gallery makes it one of the, if not the, largest art space in Los Angeles. The second floor gallery at 5514 Wilshire Blvd. is noted for bringing talented artists to the forefront, and allowing the public to get up close and personal to the art. The current show, Date Farmers, has been exciting art neophytes and critics alike. The collection combines refuse scavenged in Mexicali and Oaxaca, pirated pop culture, commercial imagery, and the

DUPLICATION OF a cantina by Armando Lerma (shown here) and Carlos Ramirez.

gritty realities of Chicano life. Hailing from the state’s date capital, Indio, Armando Lerma and Carlos Ramirez created their collaborative art form in 1998 after meeting at an art

opening in Coachella Valley. The artistic alliance is rooted in Chicano activism, and the artists cite Ramirez’s migrant mother’s history working with United Farm Workers co-founder Cesar Chavez. The duo’s Mexican American heritage is the inspiration. Among the first assemblages to greet visitors is a work featuring a jaguar stretching above rows of Matchbox cars, a tarantula that lays in wait beneath a Coca-Cola sign and a gun-toting, gang-banging Mickey Mouse. Date Farmers will run through April 2011.

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24 Miracle Mile 2011

Larchmont Chronicle

24TH annual ediTion

Party options abound for Harry Potter fans, swimmers, painters By Sondi Sepenuk When I was seven years old, a birthday party consisted of themed plates and napkins, balloons, a cake, pin-the-tailon-the-donkey and six close friends. My, oh, my how times have changed! Now I’m the mother of a seven-year-old and a fouryear-old, and I can firmly state that their birthday parties and those of their friends look nothing like our parties of old. Luckily for those of us who live in or around the Miracle Mile, there is a wealth of options for birthday parties. Color Me Mine, 456 S. La Brea Ave., offers three party packages that can be adjusted to your needs. Most parties last two hours and include a pottery piece for each child to paint, from candlesticks to plates to piggy banks to picture frames and more. The paint is non-toxic, food-safe and does not stain clothing. Guests can bring their own food and can choose a party package where they occupy a portion of the store, or they can opt for the Private Party Package to rent the entire studio. A third option is to have the party come to you! Color Me Mine can

bring the party to your home, school, office, church— you name it! You will need to return to the store five days later to pick up your child’s finished work of art. www.beverlyhills. colormemine.com. One of the Miracle Mile’s newest offerings, Whimsic Alley, opened in April 2010 at its new 5464 Wilshire Blvd. location (having moved from Santa Monica). Whimsic Alley has taken the fantasy birthday party world by storm. Whether WANDS, SWORDS and charms will decoyour child likes the rate partygoers who use the banquet room Renaissance Faire, at Whimsic Alley. knights, princessVoted by LA Parent Magazine es, Harry Potter or vampires, to be the “Best Party Place in Whimsic Alley caters to those LA” based on customer input, themes and beyond. A basic Whimsic Alley also caters to Harry Potter-style party pack- bar mitzvahs, Sweet 16 parage for 15 kids includes two ties and more. Whimsic Alley hours in the “Great Hall” ban- offers movie screenings, murquet room, a house robe for der mystery dinners, summer each child to wear, two wizard- camp for kids—the list is endlevel classes (e.g., spells, po- less, so if you have a party idea tions), take-home souvenirs, of your own, give them a ring! pizza or sandwiches, cake or www.whimsicalley.com cupcakes, beverages and more. For those who like to get

Recipient of ZAGATSURVeY Award of Distinction

FUTURE PICASSO? Ashley Botnick finishes painting her dish at Color Me Mine.

a little exercise at their parties, Lenny Krayzelburg Swim Academy, located at the Jewish Community Center on Olympic Blvd. offers up a dazzling private pool party that includes the use of two heated swimming pools. The minimum two and a half hour party includes, among other things, private use of the facility, three certified lifeguards, balloons, two private sun patios, juice, utensils and paper

goods, and full access to showers and lockers. Parties are restricted to Saturdays and Sundays only, and your kids will love splashing around to their hearts desire. For information, contact Bryan@lennykswim.com. Just a few blocks away is the Petersen Automotive Museum at 6060 Wilshire Blvd. A party package at the museum includes full-day access to the (Please turn to page 25)

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Miracle Mile 2011 25

24TH annual ediTion

Larchmont Chronicle

Mile’s neon lights beckon sports enthusiasts and partygoers alike The Varsity and Busby’s draw sports fans to their huge screens, while down the street, the El Rey has a full lineup of musicians. Jazz comes to the art museum on Friday nights from April to November, and Callender’s has a piano bar in operation Wednesdays through Sundays including Sunday brunch. Happy hours flourish at Tom Bergin’s “America’s Number One Irish Establishment” and at Little Bar, often referred to as the “Cheers” of the west coast. The El Rey The El Rey Theatre, 5515 Wilshire Blvd., will be hosting a lineup of headliners: Tues., March 8: The Sway Machinery featuring Khaira Arby at 7 p.m. Thurs., March 10: Dance Gavin Dance at 6:30 p.m. Fri., March 11: Medeski Martin & Wood with Edmund Welles, the bass clarinet quartet, at 8 p.m. Sat., March 12: The Jim Jones Revue at 8 p.m. Fri., March 25: Get Out of the Garage Music Tour featuring Tokyo Police Club with Get Out of the Garage winner,

SOJU specialty cocktails are among the spirits served at Little Bar, housed in a 1930’s building on La Brea Ave.

Beast Make Bomb, at 7 p.m. Wed., March 30: St. Schleppers Club Band Who Needs Hearts Tour at 6 p.m. Thurs., March 31: Galactic with Cyril Neville, Corey Henry and John Brown’s Body at 8 p.m. For ticket prices or more information call 323-936-6400

Wilshire Blvd. is noted for its menu, which includes buffalo wings, pizzas and its claim to have the “Best burger in town.” Other specialty items include filet mignon, slowcooked BBQ brisket, pulled

Photo on page 2 on Fridays with free signature shots from 10 p.m. to midnight. There is also a Sunday brunch with bottomless bloody Mary’s or mimosas, and a Sunday night “Weekend Wine-Down” with half-priced bottles of wine. Busby’s Busby’s sports bar at 5364

A VARIETY of bands take the stage at the El Rey in March.

pork, baby back ribs, country fried chicken and a variety of Mexican dishes. (Please turn to page 30)

“MEET ME AT THIRD FAIRFAX”

&EVENTS

2011 ACTIVITIES

Birthday Parties

MARDI GRAS, All day Friday–Sunday, March 4–6, & Fat Tuesday March 8: L.A.’s favorite Mardi Gras celebration features Cajun and Zydeco bands galore, down-home Southern cookin’, the Mutti Gras Pet Parade, bead throwing and much more.

(Continued from page 24) entire museum for you and your guests, a private party room on the third floor for three hours, and a 10 percent discount at the museum store. Outside entertainers and caterers are welcome, or you can take advantage of the attached Johnny Rockets Restaurant, which can easily cater to your third-floor needs. As an added bonus, the birthday family will receive a Station Wagon Membership to the museum for one year, worth $70. www. petersen.org. Finally, who can forget American Girl Place? Certainly not my daughter! When you step inside the café at American Girl Place, you enter a world of black and white stripes, pink chandeliers, little girls in frilly dresses and smiles to spare. At the American Girl Café, your child can actually dine with their American Girl doll, and if your child doesn’t have one, the store will loan one to them. There are three levels of birthday parties available at the café. The first package includes: invitations, a fun and fancy meal, cake with peppermint ice cream, and a surprise keepsake and goodie bag for each guest. You may also want to opt for the Deluxe Party Package, which includes a private dining room and a craft for up to 10 kids. www.americangirl.com.

or send an email to booking@ theelrey.com. Varsity Fox’s “NFL Insider” Jay Glazer hosted the grand opening of The Varsity Sports Bar and Lounge at 6311 Wilshire Blvd. late last year. The upscale sports bar and lounge is a mix of vintage

sports décor coupled with an ultra-lounge vibe, and subscribes to all of the major sports broadcasting packages. “We are excited about the new identity and launch of The Varsity,” said Glazer. “We plan to cater to the interests of our patrons whether it’s a sporting event, evening entertainment or just a great dining experience.” Special offers throughout the week include Taco Tuesday with $2 tacos and select $2 drafts, and Ladies Night

ST. PATRICK’S DAY, Thursday, March 17: Enjoy green beer, corned beef & cabbage, live Irish folk music (12-3pm & 6-9pm) & the occasional leprechaun.

POETRY WITH FAIRFAX HIGH’S “THE BEATNIX,”

Every Wednesday in April, 6pm: Join us on the West Patio as young poets from Fairfax High School put on special live readings of their own poetry.

CINCO DE MAYO, Thursday, May 5: The Market’s fiesta includes a day of south-of-the-border festivities, with great food, drink and free live entertainment.

SUMMER MUSIC SERIES, Thursdays and Fridays, May 26 – September 9, 7–9pm: Free evening concert performances every Thursday (Jazz) and Friday (Eclectic) featuring L.A.’s best musical acts.

17TH ANNUAL GILMORE HERITAGE AUTO SHOW,

Saturday, June 4, 11am–5pm: Over 100 pre-1980 American classics are on display throughout the Market. This year’s show will pay tribute to twotoned and multi-colored cars.

SUMMER FAMILY FUN SERIES, June–August starting June 12, 12–3pm: A new crop of excitement arrives every other Sunday with free family-friendly craft activities, live entertainment and more.

TASTE OF FARMERS MARKET, Tuesday, July 12, 5-9pm: For one

evening only, our merchants take you on a strolling gastronomic and shopping adventure throughout the Market, letting you enjoy delicious food, merchandise specials and live music. Ticket info will be available on farmersmarketla.com in early June.

FALL FESTIVAL, Saturday & Sunday, October 15 & 16: In honor of the Fall harvest, the Farmers Market features a bounty of live music, petting zoo, arts & crafts for kids, world famous pie eating contests and more! HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES, December 17–24: The Market is decked out

in Yuletide finery to welcome the Holiday Season. Celebrate Christmas and Hanukkah with a tree and menorah lighting, music, arts and crafts, strolling carolers and more.

All activities & events are free unless otherwise noted. Schedule is subject to change.

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26 Miracle Mile 2011

Larchmont Chronicle

24TH annual ediTion

Program adds amenities to assist firefighters When you visit Fire Station 61 at 5821 W. Third St., you will be impressed by the dishwasher, carpeting, security gates, washing machine and treadmills. The items are among the donations from the Adopt-A-Fire Station program chaired by Marc Cohen. Cohen said the program evolved from a strong, grassroots commitment by the

community for the fire department. Sponsored by the Miracle Mile Civic Coalition, the program is also in effect at fire stations 58, 52, 76, 77 and 40. Cohen recently thanked the partners who support the program such as Jerry Snyder, who lends his building for high-rise safety exercises. Park La Brea officials have

donated funds for landscaping and some of the furnishings at Station 61. Other donors include The Grove, Farmers Market and Page Museum. The program has also included donations to the mission in Haiti.

Be prepared: Sign up for emergency training course

Local government prepares for everyday emergencies. The House However, during a disaster, the Established number and scope of incidents LAPD’S LIAISON with the Miracle Mile community is Senior Lead of Irish Coffee Officer Perry Jones. 1936 can overwhelm conventional emergency services. That is why the Mid City West Community Council Tom Horan’s America’s Top Ten Clubs Salutes Public Safety Committee is Cooperation between busi- activity. sponsoring free Community TOM BERGIN’S TAVERN “There are a lot more citiness owners and residents Emergency Response Team As America’s Number One Irish Establishment (CERT) training to all city is one of the reasons crime zens out there than police offor the 5th Year in a Row! residents 18 years of age and is down in the Miracle Mile ficers,” he added. Another factor contributing area, according to Senior Lead older. to the decline include daily Officer Perry Jones. The course is designed to crime briefings with officers, Senior Lead Officers are the HAppIEST “HAppY HOUR” help people protect their families and neighbors in an emer- police department’s liaisons which gives them a way to see ON THE MIRACLE MILE gency situation without plac- with a specific part of the city. trends and compare suspects AT OUR HORSESHOE BAR “We are invited to and take in certain crimes. ing themselves in unnecessary Mon. - Fri., 4 to 7 pm • Sat. & Sun., 11:30 am to 7 pm The biggest crime of late part in everything that goes danger. Well Drinks, Tap & Bottle Beer, Camelot Wines has been burglary from motor on in the community, from art The training will take Six Tasty Bar Snacks from $3.25 to $4.95 place on seven consecutive walks to the grand opening of vehicles, said Jones. “It’s an Wednesday evenings from 7 to the Holocaust Museum in Pan opportunistic crime. People Monday-Saturday 3pm-7pm & 9pm-Close 9:30 p.m. beginning March 9 Pacific Park,” said Jones, of leave GPS devices, laptops, iPthe L.A.P.D. Wilshire Division. ods and shopping bags in plain at the Beverly Center. Feast on Our Irish Entrees His area’s boundaries are view in their cars.” Advanced registration is reSteaks, Chops, Burgers & Fresh Fish An ongoing issue has been from Poinsettia, Cochran or quired. For additional inforin Our Candlelit Fireplace Dining Room mation, contact MCWCCFeaturing pub- La Brea avenues on the east the number of food trucks in lic safety committee member (depending on the block), to the area. “We enforce parking Open 11:30am to 2am Monday thru Sunday • Live Piano & Ave. in the west, and violations and regularly ticket Fairfax Tara Brown at taramcw@mac. For Reservations Call 323-936-7151 from Beverly Blvd. in the north them.” com 840 S. Fairfax Ave. (Between Wilshire & Olympic) • Valet Parking Vocals Graffiti continues to be a to San Vicente Blvd. in the For more information about www.tombergins.com south. The area includes the problem, but Jones says for Wed-Sun CERT, go to www.certla.com Farmers Market, The Grove, CBS the most part, it’s not gang6:30-9:30pm Mojitos related. “Gang members use Television City, Pan Pacific•Park, to send a message and LACMA and Park La Brea. • Sunday Brunch • Hand-Shakengraffiti Margaritas stake a territory. Here, it’s “We work hand in hand with The most comfortable mostly taggers showing off neighborhood associations • Martinis and community groups,” said their handiwork.” place in L.A. to His advice: paint it out immeJones. “That’s how we solve 90 watch your favorite percent of our crimes. Citizens diately, or call the Hollywood bring photos of license plates Beautification Team at 323sporting events. and cars and report suspicious 463-5180 for removal.

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Miracle Mile 2011 27

24TH annual ediTion

Larchmont Chronicle

MUSEUM ROW Jo Lauria and Dale Carolyn Gluckman is Sun., March 27 at 3 p.m. Free with museum admission. RSVP • "Crossing the Line: A Space by Tanya Aguiñiga" creates an environment crafted entirely from yarn and custom-built

furniture. Ends May 8. 5814 Wilshire Blvd., 323937-4230; cafam.org. PAGE MUSEUM AT THE LA BREA TAR PITS—Observe on-site excavation of Ice Age fossils from the Observation Deck at Pit 91 and at Project

23, daily, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tours daily at 1 p.m. of the Pleistocene Garden, pits, and Project 23. Tours daily at 2:15 p.m. inside the Page Museum. Exhibits feature area fossil (Please turn to page 28)

The El Rey Theatre

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DRESSED AS AN Odalisque, 1976, by Firooz Zahedi.

Liz Taylor in Iran; Safety at 300 mph; Ice Age tours 903-2277; petersen.org KOREAN CULTURAL CENTER—"Pearls of Wisdom: End the Violence," opening reception is Sat., March 5, the 100th anniversary of International Women's Day, from 2 to 4 p.m. Artist Kim Abeles features the words, advice and images by 800 survivors and community members in the exhibit. Ends March 31. "Ending Violence with Art & Activism," a panel discussion Sat., March 26 from 2 to 4 p.m. with artist Kim Abeles, Suzanne Isken, director of the Craft and Folk Art Museum and others. 5505 Wilshire Blvd., 323936-7141. www.kccla.org LOS ANGELES MUSEUM OF THE HOLOCAUST—"A Tribute to the Children of Kindertransports Sculpture Exhibition" by artist Gabriella Karin and researcher Michele Gold. They collected 600 photographs of children transported during the Holocaust. Ends May. • Among works by Czech commercial designer Erich Lichtblau-Leskly are those made while at the Theresienstadt Ghetto (Terezin). Ends May 1. The museum houses the West Coast's largest archive of documents, relics and other materials from the Holocaust, 1933-1945. Tours daily. Always free. Pan Pacific Park, 100 S. The Grove Dr., 323-651-3704; lamoth.org. CRAFT AND FOLK ART MUSEUM—Make clay creations in a family workshop Sat., March 12, during a dropin workshop 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. $8 per child. Members free. • "A Marriage of Craft and Design: The Work of Evelyn and Jerome Ackerman" features their 50+-year collaboration that helped shape “MidCentury California Modernism.” Ends May 8. • Curators Talk for "A Marriage of Craft and Design" with

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2011

LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART— "Elizabeth Taylor in Iran" features photographs taken in 1976 by Hollywood photographer Firooz Zahedi, then a recent art school graduate. The pair traveled to tourist sites, including ancient Persepolis, Shiraz and Isfahan. Ends June 12. • "Human Nature: Contemporary Art from the Collection" opens Sun., March 13. The exhibit features 75 works of art in diverse media from 1968 to the present. Ends July 4. • "Vija Celmins: Television and Disaster 1964–1966," opens Sun., March 13. Ends June 5. • "Larry Fink: Hollywood 2000-2009" features his work while under contract with Vanity Fair covering the magazine's annual Oscar-night party. Ends April 3. • "Fashioning Fashion: European Dress in Detail, 17001915" ends March 27. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., 323-8576000; lacma.org. PETERSEN AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM—"Super Cars: When too much is almost enough" opens Sat., March 5. Since the beginning of the 20th century, they share powerful engines, minimal passenger carrying capacity, adventurous mechanical specifications, and a commanding presence. • Make "Auto-mobiles" from straw, strings and paper during Discovery Day, Sat., March 5 from 1 to 4 p.m. Stories are read by L.A. BooksPALS at 2:30 p.m. •"NHRA: Sixty Years of Thunder" features the history of the National Hot Rod Association." Ends May 29. "Safety at 300 MPH," a panel discussion, is on Tues., March 22 at 7:30 p.m. with pro drag racers and safety workers from the Auto Club Raceway at Pomona. RSVP at 323-9646347, or cdrescher@petersen. org . 6060 Wilshire Blvd., 323-

Surprises! Mariachi Music!

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28 Miracle Mile 2011

Larchmont Chronicle

24TH annual ediTion

Isken named new head of Craft and Folk Suzanne Isken, former education director at the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), assumed the role of director at the Craft and Folk Art Museum Feb. 14. “In a world that continually clashes over ethnicity and difference, the museum’s mis-

sion of cultural understanding through art becomes all the more relevant and inspiring. I look forward to taking on this leadership role at CAFAM,” said Isken. Museum chairman of the board Wally Marks III said: “Continuing on our accom-

plishments realized over the past few years, Suzanne Isken brings a wealth of museum experience and artistic vision to Craft And Folk Art Museum. We are an institution with a history of strong and talented leaders, and we are so fortunate to have Suzanne at the

   Honoring: Southern California Gas Company Southern California Leadership Council Honorable Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster

AT CAFAM: Suzanne Isken, chairman of the board Wally Marks III, left, and Isken’s husband, Eric, right. Photo by Noel Bass

helm.” Isken has 20 years of experience in contemporary art. At MOCA she worked with artists and diverse groups of Los Angeles working women to share their stories of survival. The project culminated with a potluck dinner attended by 200 women.

Additionally, Isken has advocated for and helped develop critical arts education programming in the public schools and will continue using the museum as a vital learning platform for all ages. She replaces Maryna Hrushetska, who left at the end of last year.

Thursday, May 12, 2011 Millennium Biltmore Hotel For ticket and sponsorship opportunities, contact 323.935.8050 x233 or csmith@breathela.org www.breathela.org Honoring leaders who epitomize excellence in promoting clean air and healthy lungs in Los Angeles County ORIGINALLY opened in 2001 at 5900 Wilshire Blvd., the A&D Museum has since relocated to 6032 Wilshire Blvd.

A&D focuses exclusively on progressive architecture The Architecture and Design Museum is considered the only museum in southern California focused exclusively on progressive architecture, design and urbanism. A&D originally opened in 2001 at 5900 Wilshire Blvd., and relocated to 6032 Wilshire Blvd. more than a year ago. The museum’s current exhibit, SOUPERgreen, features five “souped up” architectural proposals that explore how technology can promote more constructive engagement with the environment. In continues through Thurs., April 14. The exhibition features newly completed projects by five architects: Doug Jackson, Wes Jones, Aryan Omar, Steven Purvis and Randolph Ruiz. “Collectively this group of designers represents a vision that is both unique and uniquely consistent within the discipline of architecture, but one that is also rich and nuanced,” said Sean Yashar, museum spokesperson.

For more information, visit www.aplusd.org.

MUSEUM ROW

(Continued from page 27) finds of Ice Age life 10,000 to 40,000 years ago, when sabertoothed cats and giant sloths ruled. Check out the latest findings at the blog, The Excavatrix. 5801 Wilshire Blvd., 323934-PAGE; tarpits.org ZIMMER CHILDREN'S MUSEUM—Sunday dropin workshops, from 2:30 to 4 p.m., include "The World is My Canvas" March 6. "Colors of the Rainbow" is March 13. "Merry Masks of Purim" on March 20 includes costumes and giving, benefitting the SOVA Community Food and Resource Program of the Jewish Family Service of Los Angeles. 6505 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 100; 323-761-8984, www.zimmermuseum.org.

Miracle Mile 2011 29

24TH annual ediTion

Larchmont Chronicle

Walking, cycling ease parking woes at Hancock Park Elementary campus Children at Hancock Park Elementary School have made life a bit easier for parents who previously had to park for pick up and drop off. Thanks to an effort called Walk to School Wednesdays, students are walking to and from campus at least one day a week, eliminating the need for their parents to find temporary parking. “There’s not parking on campus, and lot of the streets around the campus are restricted,” said Jessica Dabney, co-president of the school’s Booster Club. “The school was built originally for 300 kids,

we now have 777. The facilities don’t support that number, but specifically walking to school seemed like an easy fit.” The effort was launched at the beginning of the school year to encourage the community to start walking to school, she said. “We thought we’d start with Wednesdays so that kids and parents would find it so fun, they’d walk every day,” Dabney said. “We’re a neighborhood school, so really everyone could walk.” The school also beefed up the morning drop-off pro-

signed each week to a specific classroom,” Dabney explained. “Definitely the drop-off line makes things more efficient.” In similar efforts, the Booster Club purchased an additional bicycle rack because so many students started bik-

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Hancock Park Elementary 408 S. Fairfax Ave. Ph: 323-935-5272 Principal: Ashley Parker Grades: K to 5, 740 students

Single family homes listed during the last six months

Year

AwArd winning

Elementary schools Cathedral Chapel School 755 S. Cochran Ave. Ph: 323-938-9976 Principal: Tina Kipp Grades: K to 8, 288 students

Miracle Mile real estate sales*

CElEbRAtINg

Our

School Directory

This house at 915 S. Cloverdale Ave. was listed for $949,000.

ing to school. “So it’s a combination of things—more people biking, walking, using the drop-off line. With those things combined, we’ve been able to address the lack of parking issue,” Dabney said.

Home of the Miracle Mile Index …a community resource

30 Miracle Mile 2011

Architecture described on Wilshire Blvd. walking tour

Author and researcher of the book “Wilshire Boulevard: Grand Concourse of Los Angeles” will lead the Art Deco Society Los Angeles walking tour on Sat., March 26 from 10 a.m. to noon. J. Eric Lynxwiler, an urban anthropologist, will describe the history and architecture of the Miracle Mile. Born in the 1920s, the boulevard was conceived by developer A.W. Ross as a street to rival the great boulevards of Europe. The tour will begin at the black and gold terra cotta bank building at 5209 Wilshire Blvd. Built in 1929, it was designed by the architecture firm of Morgan, Walls and Clements, who also lay claim

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to the Wiltern Theatre tower, the El Capitan and more than 100 other notable Los Angeles buildings. Other Mile landmarks include the block-long Dominguez Wilshire building at 5410 Wilshire Blvd., the Wilshire Tower at 5514 Wilshire Blvd., and the Streamline Moderndesigned May Co. (now the home of LACMA West). The Art Deco Society sponsors the walk on a quarterly basis. Comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen and water are suggested. Two-hour metered parking is available in the area. Ticket prices are $10 for ADSLA members; $15 for nonmembers. Contact www.adsla. org.

MILE'S NEON LIGHTS BECKON

TOUR BEGINS at Stiles Clements-designed terra cotta building at 5209 Wilshire Blvd.

A LONG BOULEVARD Wilshire Boulevard is so long that its numbering system begins at both ends. It runs from downtown L.A. to Santa Monica.

Marat Daukayev School of Ballet

Pre-Ballet to Pre-Professional Training in Russian Style Classical Ballet at Dance Arts Academy, 731 s. La Brea Ave.

classes for girls and boys ages 3 & up beginning to advanced levels

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( Just south of the Wilshire-La Brea Intersection)

visit our website or call for class schedules

www.maratdaukayev.com • 323.965.0333

0507

611 S. La Brea Ave. • 1 block North of Wilshire • (323) 931-8148

(Continued from page 25) Food and spirits aside, the venue is known for its 50 giant plasma TVs that offer the ultimate sports bar experience. Busby’s also serves breakfast Saturday and Sunday and offers a champagne sports brunch on the weekends. Little Bar Housed in a 1930s building that’s rumored to be a former Japanese speakeasy, Little Bar at 757 S. La Brea Ave. is known for its signature wooden booths and east coast collegiate décor. There’s no kitchen but you can bring your own food or order from any of the nearby restaurants. The jukebox offers a range of tunes from Marvin Gaye to Journey to De la Soul. And of course the spirits flow freely, from wine to beer to specialty Soju cocktails.

Tom Bergin’s Tavern UCLA and USC alums are among the faithful that flock to Tom Bergin’s Tavern to watch their teams compete in different sporting events. The Irish tavern, established in 1936 at 840 S. Fairfax Ave., features happy hour seven days a week. The menu at the huge bar and adjacent dining room features a variety of choices at affordable prices, including French dip sandwiches, corned beef and cabbage and filet mignon. Farmers Market Whether it’s St. Patrick’s Day or Octoberfest, E. B. Bars at Farmers Market has a celebration for all occasions. Its karoke contest draws wouldbe Justin Biebers and Lady Gagas on Friday nights. The weekly lineup includes country, rock and jazz.

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Larchmont Chronicle

ANTIQUES, FURNISHINGS AND MORE…

Miracle Mile 2011 31

Shopping on La Brea VIENNA WOODS Furniture... ...and Art

With love and experience We repair and refinish your old furniture, or take your ideas to make new furniture. 351 La Brea Ave., Los Angeles, CA. 90036 323-954-9595 • FAX 323-954-0448

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Email – janusz@viennawoods.com

Open Mon-Fri 10am – 5pm

Beginnings T h e B a b y B ra n d s Yo u T ru st. A t P rices Yo u L o ve. www.beginningsstore.com

t. 323-‐931-‐2229 f. 323-‐931-‐2221

Free delivery & Installation of nurseries over $200 within 20 miles of store and NO SALES TAX!

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151 S. La Brea Los Angeles CA 90036

w w w. l i t t l e p a r i s a n t i q u e s . c o m

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4.75 x 2.25 4.75 x 2.25 in color in font colorin Myriad Pro font in Myriad Pro

32 Miracle Mile 2011

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Beverly Hills BMW Opens in Miracle Mile

Beverly Hills BMW BMWofBeverlyHills.com 323-801-1430

5070 Wilshire Blvd. (Just east of La Brea) • 323-801-1430 • www.BMWofBeverlyHills.com

Come See Us At Our New

2011 BMW M5

State-of-the-Art Showroom For New & Pre-Owned Vehicles Service & Parts Department Continues to Serve You

2011 BMW Z4

At 8333 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills Sales & Finance Hours Mon – Fri • 9AM – 8PM Sat • 9AM – 7PM Sun • 10AM – 7PM

2011 BMW X6

Special Lease & Finance Rates

Sales Showroom open now

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Available Through BMW Finance Services Service and Parts Opening in 3rd quarter of 2011