2009 - 03 Miracle Mile Larchmont Chronicle by Larchmont Chronicle

Larchmont Chronicle's

Miracle Mile 2009

GRAND PRIX will include a 5K run at the third annual TarFest. 20

ADVENTURES abound for children and their families. 10

2 Miracle Mile 2009

Mark your calendar for ...

INSIDE EDITION

March

DEVELOPMENTS on the Mile's horizon. 4 SILVERWOOD'S elegance gone by.

RESIDENTS' Association keeps watch. 8 FREE things to do, places to go. 12 ART WALKS are MidCity West's beat. 16 THE CHAMBER. It's good for business. 18 HAPPY TIMES at area happy hours. 20

REAL ESTATE sales. 23 ESPRESSO with ambiance. GET FIT: Pilates to pole dancing.

23 24

DIRECTORIES: apartment rents, schools.................. 25 VERY BEST OF the Mile.

Larchmont Chronicle

22ND ANNUAL EDITION

Art Deco tour

Step back in time with the Art Deco Society's Saturday tours March 14 at 10 a.m. Walkers will meet at the City Beat Building at 5209 Wilshire Blvd. The one-time bank still boasts a black-and-gold terra cotta building designed by Stiles Clements. Cost for members is $10 per person; non-members $15 per person. Advance registration is required. Visit www.adsla.org

April

A MILE GRAND PRIX with a 5K run is among activities held during TarFest in September. Some of last year's sprinters travel down Wilshire Blvd. above. See story page 20.

Ancient Gods at Craft & Folk

Rich in vibrant colors and infused with stories both ancient and new, "Ancient Gods And Modern Politics: Mithila Painting" opens Sat., April 11 at the Craft and Folk Art Museum, 5814 Wilshire Blvd. Rooted in traditional Indian wall and floor paintings, modern Mithila works are created on paper to illustrate gods and goddesses, and modern themes such as gender politics and social commentary.

May Marathon runs on Memorial Day The 24th annual Los Angeles Marathon moves to Memorial Day this year. The event in-

cludes a 5K run and the Acura L.A. Bike Tour. The race kicks off downtown at 6th and Figueroa on Mon., May 25 at 7:20 a.m. Runners will pass through the Miracle Mile on their way to the finish line downtown. For more information, go to www.lamarathon.com

June Dare to prepare Safety Summit Miracle Mile Civic Coalition is holding is fifth annual Safety Summit featuring experts in the field of emergency preparedness. The conference will be held at the Screen Actors Guild Foundation boardroom. Civic leaders and security officials will attend.

July Farmers Market's' 75th celebration

Celebrate all month long with food, music and children’s programs in honor of Farmers Market’s 75th anniversary. A Taste of the Market is Tues., July 14 from 7 to 9 p.m., an anniversary birthday bash is Thurs., July 16 from 7:30 to 9 a.m. Big band and jazz is featured on Thurs., July 16 and Sat., July 18 from 7 to 10 p.m. A Summer Music Series will be on Thursdays and Fridays. Visit farmersmarketla.com.

August Helicopter on view

Take tours of your neighborhood Wilshire Community

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

Police Station on Sun., Aug. 16 from noon to 5 p.m. Meet your neighborhood officers, tour a police helicopter and visit the jail at the open house at 4861 W. Venice Blvd. Children’s activities include a giant slide. They will receive fingerprint identification cards. Martial arts demonstrations are also on the program.

September Tarfest to feature film, music, art Short films, animation, live music, 5K and one-mile runs and more will be showcased at TarFest on Fri., Sept. 25, Sat., Sept. 26 and Sun., Sept. 27 at Museum Row venues in Miracle Mile. The event is a (Please turn to page 3)

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22ND ANNUAL EDITION

Larchmont Chronicle

... events on legendary Miracle Mile in November. The free celebration kicks off the holiday season. Fireworks will light up the sky along with the season’s first faux snowfall, celebrity performances and carolers.

December Healthy luncheon

AIR SHOWS are featured at the Community Police Salute.

September (Continued from page 2) 2) production of the Miracle Mile Players, Inc. For more information, email James Panozzo, festival director, at jamesp@ tarfest.com.

November Santa Claus is coming to town Santa Claus arrives early when The Grove turns on the lights on its 110-foot fir tree

Miracle Mile Chamber of Commerce members will convene at Olympia Medical Center for the annual holiday luncheon and meeting scheduled for Thurs., Dec. 10. Each year the hospital at 5900 W. Olympic Blvd. hosts the gettogether that also serves as a networking event. The Chamber holds monthly luncheons at area restaurants, museums and offices throughout the year.

JOIN THE FESTIVITIES as the Farmers Market celebrates its 75th anniversary in July. See story page 22.

October Costume events Halloween falls on a Sunday so local schools will be scheduling their costume parades earlier in the week. Look for Farmers Market, The Grove and the museums to schedule special events for youngsters. Local employees get in the action as well, and will use “casual Friday” as the day to wear costumes to work.

A RREEF MEDIA/ENTERTAINMENT CAMPUS

Wilshire Courtyard is a million square foot creative

ABOUT THE COVER

office complex built around a beautifully landscaped

The cover photo of Wilshire Blvd. looking east was taken on the roof of the 31-story 5900 Wilshire building by Andrew Taylor, TAOpro. com. Councilman Tom La Bonge is with Fairfax High students at last year's Miracle Mile Run during TarFest. Visitors to the Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits get a bird's-eye view of paleontologists digging for Ice Age fossils.

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

Miracle Mile

For Leasing Information Please Call:

Brad Feld at Madison Partners at (310) 407-3400 A RREEF MEDIA/ENTERTAINMENT CAMPUS

5700 and 5750 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles 90036 © LC 0309

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.

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 CREW Creative Deli & Delites E! Entertainment Television East Court Cards & Gifts Entravision Communications First Entertainment Credit Union Fox Animation Goethe-Institut Initiative Lagnese, Peyrot & Mucci Los Angeles Business Journal Manning, Leaver, Bruder & Berberich McCann Erickson McGraw-Hill Meteor Worldwide Meridian’s Bodies in Motion MOJO LLC Ogilvy/BWR PR OWN Rebel Entertainment Renewable Resources Group, Inc. Res Mae Shapiro Entertainment Speaker of the Assembly Karen Bass Wenner Media The Weinstein Company World Poker Tour

4 Miracle Mile 2009

!IS !S

Larchmont Chronicle

22ND annual edition

BRE’S PROPOSED mixed-use project is on the right behind the Bank of America building.

RENDERING OF Legacy’s six story, 163-mixed-unit project at 5550 Wilshire Blvd.

Development continues on Wilshire Blvd.’s Art Deco stretch

By Suzan Filipek New projects are in the works for the historic Art Deco stretch of Wilshire Blvd. in Miracle Mile. The largest development is BRE Properties mixeduse project at the corner of Wilshire and La Brea Ave. The seven-story, apartment complex with 45,000 square feet of ground-floor retail is pending a city environmental impact review and public hearings.

Among considerations are the project’s 562 units, which the community is asking to have cut back, said Fred Pickel, president of the La Brea-Hancock Homeowners’ Assoc. Councilman Tom LaBonge had also asked the developer for a less dense design than

the one drawn by Thomas Cox Architects. The building design will complement the historic Wilson Building, across Wilshire Blvd., said company spokesman Andrea Ceragioli. “After input from the community and the city, the design team developed an archi-

tectural design that is more in character with the neighborhood and the Wilshire Corridor,” Ceragioli added. 5600 Wilshire Another BRE building is the recently opened five-story 5600 Wilshire; 284 apartments encircle two courtyards, much like the architecture in France

and Italy, said the building’s architect L. Gustaf Soderbergh, of Van Tilburg, Banvard & Soderbergh. The original occupant of the site, Coulter’s Department Store also provided inspiration for the project, Soderbergh added. (Please turn to page 6)

! S I ! H ! T S ! I S S ! I I G H S H I I T H H T T D G T I G D G I I D G I D D H I S ! DIG THIS!

The Page Museum a The Page Museum at t TheThe Page Museum at the La B Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits YYOOUUCCALa ANN: : Brea Tar Pits Museum at the …stroll …strollthrough throughour ourIceIceAge AgeGarden Garden …watchscientists scientistsand andvolunteers volunteersprepare prepare YOU CAN: …watch fossils ininthe Lab …stroll through our Ice Age fossils theFishbowl Fishbowl LabGarden : N A C U O Y : scientists N…spend a amemorable and night volunteers prepare …spend memorable nightatatthe theMuseum Museum YOU CAYNO:U CA…watch The ThePage PageMuseum Museumatatthe theLa LaBrea BreaTar TarPits Pits

Exhibition Pavilion slated to open in 2010 at LACMA

…stroll through our Ice Age Ga …stroll through ourGarden Ice Age Gard …stroll through our Ice Age …watch scientists and volunte and volunteers our Ice Age Garden …watch scientistsscientists and volunteers prepare TTHIS SUM …watch fossils in the Fishbowl Lab in the Fishbowl Lab ts and volunteers prepare the Fishbowl Lab : fossils SUMMERin THISfossils …spend a memorable night at a memorable at the ishbowl Lab …spend…spend a memorable night at night the Museum with Camp Goo with Camp Goo rable night at the with Museum Camp Goo o The newest addition to the Renzo Piano-designed expansion and renovation underway at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is slated to open in mid 2010. The Lynda and Stewart Resnick Exhibition Pavilion will be a single-story, glass and stone-enclosed structure. It will stand north of the Broad Contemporary Art Museum (BCAM), 5905 Wilshire Blvd. BCAM opened in February 2008 as part of the renovation, Transformation, designed by award-winning Italian architect Piano. The Resnick building will house special exhibitions, freeing up existing gallery space for LACMA’s expansive permanent collection. The Resnick Pavilion will complement BCAM as both buildings feature glass roof and ceiling elements to let in natural light. The Pavilion’s exterior will be a combination of glass and travertine marble. Its interior galleries will feature a flexible open plan to accommodate multiple exhibitions as well as large-scale works of art. The Resnicks are L.A.-based philanthropists who donated $55 million to LACMA in September.

with fossils inCamp theGoo Fishbowl Lab withCamp Goo …spend a memorable night at the Museum Camp : : Goo MMER ER HIS SUMwith

Adventures AdventuresininNature Naturecamp: camp:July July2323- August - August3 3 Registration Registrationbegins beginsMarch March1 1

Adventures in Nature camp: July 23 - August 3 Registration begins March 1

useum at the La Brea Tar Pits : R E M M U S S I H T : R E M : M R E U S M S M I U H S T S I TH

5801 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles • On Museum Row 5801 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles • On Museum Row For more information: For more information: call (323) 934-PAGE oror visit www.tarpits.org call (323) 934-PAGE visit www.tarpits.org

5801 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles • On Museum Row For more information: call (323) 934-PAGE or visit www.tarpits.org

LC308

Adventures in Nature camp: Ju Adventures NatureJuly camp: Adventures in Natureincamp: 23 - July Aug Registration begins March 1 Registration begins March 1 Registration begins March 1 ature camp: July 23 August 3 33MILLION 650 11 AMAZING MILLIONFOSSILS FOSSILS 650SPECIES SPECIES AMAZINGSITE SITE ins March 1

Larchmont Chronicle

22ND annual edition

Miracle Mile 2009 5

WHAT REMAINS IN THE

WAKE OF A DYING STAR?

All artwork: Matjames, Untitled, 2008. Photos by Ed Glendinning.

Celestial Ash: Assemblies from Los Angeles On view April 12 - September 13, 2009

The legacy of Joseph Cornell, known for his ethereal shadow boxes, is the tie that binds the artists of Celestial Ash. Curated by Kristine McKenna, Celestial Ash features artwork by Los Angeles-rooted artists Exene Cervenka, Gail Greenfield Randall, Matjames, and Michael McMillen, who create assemblage-based works that are lyrical, personal, and deeply emotional. Like the celestial ash of a great star, these original and soulful artists demonstrate the enduring allure of Cornellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work.

...because a shrinking world requires an EXPANDED mind MUSEUM HOURS:

Monday: Closed Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 11 am - 5 pm Thursday: 11 am - 7 pm Saturday and Sunday: 12 pm - 6 pm

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architect Stiles Clements. Meanwhile Legacy's $1.5 million restoration project continues at the historic 11-story Desmond’s, 5500 to 5528 Wilshire Blvd. The new 175-unit project behind the Desmonds Tower at 727 S. Dunsmuir "is entitled and currently under evaluation to determine the timing of a construction start. “We’re doing what EUROPEAN DESIGN and Streamline Moderne were the architect's inspira- most everyone is dotion behind the 5600 Wilshire apartment building. ing. We’re holding back and reanalyzing… "We’re reevaluating our (Continued from page 4) (Leadership in Energy and timing to proceed,” said Scott The Streamline Moderne- Environmental Design) certi- Walker, Legacy vice president of development. style building opened on fication. ** * the site in 1938. It was later Legacy Partners Inc. bought by Broadway Dept. Construction is already South Bay Ventures Inc. is stores and eventually demol- underway for a six-story Art readying to put condos on the ished in 1980. Deco Moderne-style building market in two Olympic Blvd. While paying tribute to its at 5550 Wilshire Blvd. The buildings. A 10-unit building past, the new building fea- project features 163 condos at 948 S. Dunsmuir Ave. and tures modern elements, such above 15,000 square feet of a nine-unit building is a block as rounded corners and a pat- retail space. Completion of the west at the corner of Burnside terned mosaic of painted win- Irvine-based Legacy Partners Ave. Both three-story developdows above Wilshire. Inc. is targeted for 2010. In addition, the build- The former Savon and Office ments feature two- and threeing has 12,500 square feet of Depot site was originally the bedroom luxury units with ground-floor restaurant and Mullen & Bluett men’s cloth- two-and-a-half baths in apretail space and boasts a LEED ing store, built in 1949 by proximately 1,500 square feet.

Development continues

Celebrating

The bygone era when building lobby floors and ceilings were decorated with painted designs is being recreated by the owners of the Dominguez building at 5410 Wilshire Blvd. “We are bringing back the grandeur of the 1920s when the Art Deco period was so popular,” said Daniel Farasat of Wexford Management. His firm is restoring the zigzag pattern that embellishes each of the 13 hallway floors in the building. The decorative ceiling art in the lobby carries the Art Deco theme as do the light fixtures. “Many of our tenants are in the creative arts field, and they appreciate the work we are doing to restore the building to its original ambiance,” Farasat said. Completed in 1930, the architects were Morgan Walls and Clement. It was one of the largest retail spaces on the Miracle Mile, and has been undergoing restoration during the last 10 years. The entryway’s terrazzo descends to the sidewalk to attract pedestrians into the stores that used to be there. The sidewalk is coated with

ART DECO designs have been restored in the lobby.

green and in a concrete-block pattern, distinguishing itself from the city’s plain sidewalk. When the building housed Desmends department store on the first two floors, the exterior featured large display windows to entice buyers. Offices in the building feature exposed ceilings, and windows that open. Tenants can see downtown, the Hollywood Hills and even Catalina Island (on a clear day) depending on what direction their windows face.

I’m Proud to be Your Councilmember representing

the Marvelous Miracle Mile

Miracle Mile

and Proudly Serving The City and County of Los Angeles Since 1975

Zev Yaroslavsky

Tom LaBonge

Supervisor, Third District | County of Los Angeles

Los Angeles 4th District City Councilmember 213-485-3337 councilmember.labonge@lacity.org © LC 0308

Downtown Office

(213) 974-3333 e-mail: zev@bos.lacounty.gov Website: HTTP://zev.lacounty.gov

Building's restoration enhances 1920s grandeur

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22ND annual edition

Miracle Mile 2009 7

Art of Two Germanys Cold War Cultures Now on View

For information: lacma.org or 323 857-6000

This exhibition was organized by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in cooperation with Kulturprojekte Berlin GmbH. It was made possible in part by an award from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Foreign Office of the Federal Republic of Germany. Additional support was provided by LACMAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Art Museum Council. The international tour has been funded by the German Federal Cultural Foundation and Stiftung Deutsche Klassenlotterie.

Sibylle Bergemann, Half Statue (detail), 1984, black and white photography, ÂŠ Sibylle Bergemann

8 Miracle Mile 2009

TRAFFIC, CRIME ON AGENDA

Residential Association keeps guard over area

nance for the center’s citywide By Suzan Filipek Celebrating its 26th year, is being considered by the City the Miracle Mile Residential Council. Association is as busy as ever, The group’s annual meetwatching over new develop- ing is targeted for the fall. ments to traffic measures Board meetings are on the for the area stretching from first Thursday of the month at Berch Lounge, Westside Fairfax Ave. to La Brea Ave. At the helm, president Jim Jewish Community Center, O’Sullivan keeps an eye on 5870 Olympic Blvd. MMRA boundcrime aries are Wilshire statistics Neighborhood Traffic Blvd. on the to devel- Study could lead to north, La Brea— opments increased four-way from Wilshire on the stops, speed bumps to Olympic, rise. Meadowbrook H i g h and other traffic from Olympic on his mitigation measures. to Edgewood r a d a r screen is BRE Properties’ pro- Place—on the east; Edgewood posed seven-story retail-and- Place (from Meadowbrook apartment building at Wilshire to Hauser) and San Vicente (from Hauser to Fairfax) at the and La Brea Ave. “It’s so massive… We’re con- south, and Fairfax Ave. on the cerned about the traffic cut- west. ting through Eighth Street,” Visit miraclemilela.com O’Sullivan said. Traffic is a never-ending challenge, stemming from the Mile’s ideal location, being near Hollywood, The Grove, downtown and points to the beach and the Valley. The residential association was part of several community groups that sued the city last year after it announced plans to make Pico and Olympic boulevards one-way streets. A judge ruled the city needed an environmental impact report before it could proceed. And with city officials recently hiring a consultant to conduct the review, MMRA officials are watching closely. If approved, the one-way streets, which would run from Fairfax to Centinela, would hurt businesses, impact parking and snarl traffic through area neighborhoods, O’Sullivan said. Meanwhile, staff cutbacks at City Hall have put a Neighborhood Traffic Study on hold. Once complete, the report could lead to increased four-way stops, speed bumps and other traffic mitigation measures. On another front residents are being encouraged to join their Neighborhood Watch programs and notify their block captains if they see any suspicious behavior. An e-mail system is set up block by block throughout the Mile. “Everyday crime is up,” said O’Sullivan. He attributed the rise in burglaries, assaults and car break-ins to the economy. Marijuana medical centers are also being monitored by MMRA members, “as they seem to be a magnet for crime.” Three of the facilities are on La Brea Ave., south of Wilshire. One of them had a fatality from a burglary a few months ago. A stiffer ordi-

22ND annual edition

Larchmont Chronicle

Art Deco Society revives its Saturday tours The Miracle Mile’s wealth of architecturally significant buildings will be viewed when the Art Deco Society of Los Angeles revives its Saturday tours. The first two-hour tour begins March 14 at 10 a.m. Walkers will meet at the City Beat Building at 5209 Wilshire Blvd. Originally a bank, the black-and-gold terra cotta building was designed by Stiles Clements. Other Art DecoA VINTAGE POSTCARD offers a glimpse of Wilshire Blvd.’s Miracle Mile designed buildings will inthe way it used to be. clude the Wilson Building at Wilshire Boulevard and “Wilshire Boulevard: Grand gested. La Brea Avenue, the El Cost for Society members is Rey Theatre, and the Desmonds Concourse of Los Angeles.” and Silverwood towers, both Lynxwiler will expand on the $10 per person; non-members formerly the site of department book’s Miracle Mile chapter as $15 per person. the group explores the neigh- Advance registration is restores. quired. Tour leader is J. Eric Lynxwiler, borhood block by block. urban archeologist and co-au- Comfortable walking shoes, Visit www.adsla.org or call thor and researcher for the book hat, sunscreen and water sug- 310-659-3326

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22ND ANNUAL EDITION

puffy. prince. 5900 wilshire. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in a name? There are some who, over the course of a lifetime, try on two or three, as a means of expressing their own personal evolution. You could say something similar is happening here. After a complete lobby-to-rooftop renovation, 5900 Wilshire reclaims its place of prominence in the Miracle Mile. And we are thrilled to announce that our newly transformed building will serve as the new headquarters for Variety, the leading international source for news on the business of entertainment. We are proud to be seen from Santa Monica to Downtown, as not just 5900 Wilshire but also, the Variety building. To learn more about whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s happening here visit 5900wilshire.net. A property of The Ratkovich Company, represented by CBRE.

rethink your workplace

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Larchmont Chronicle

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

For Leasing Information, Call:

Miracle Mile 2009 11

22ND ANNUAL EDITION

VARIETY OF CHILDREN’S EVENTS

An Ice Age caper at Page, leprechauns at The Grove

An Ice Age, technologyfueled adventure at the Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits, 5801 Wilshire Blvd., features a scavenger hunt on Sat., April 18. Clues will be downloaded to cell phones, and the grounds will be dotted with secret agents as well as a pink-clad fairy and a troll. Families with children will join museum staff, docents and volunteers amid sabertoothed cat, dire wolf and other fossils at the museum site and park grounds. Free to members. Call 213- 763-3316 or www.nhm.org/membership for this members only event, or visit 323-934-PAGE. Children’s activities abound year round throughout the Mile. Here are a sampling of a few: Car-related workshops are held during two Saturday workshops this month at the Petersen Automotive Museum, 6060 Wilshire Blvd. A drawing workshop is on March 21, and children make clay model car sketches in 3-D March 28. Both are from 2 to 4 p.m. The Petersen hosts a drop-in arts and crafts workshop the first Saturday of every month, from 1 to 4 p.m. For prices

CARS RUN ON CLAY at the Petersen Automotive Museum.

and more information visit 323-930-CARS. Doll maker Dorothy Elliott -Taylor will show how to make paper dolls—including some fashion-forward doll clothes— from cardboard and construction paper and simple stitching at the Craft and Folk Art Museum, 5814 Wilshire Blvd. The workshop is on Sat., March 7 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Norooz: the Middle Eastern New Year will be heralded in at the Craft and Folk on Sat., March 14 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Children will create symbols of rebirth and good health to take home. To RSVP, or for more information and prices, call 323-937-4230 x50. Free art-related children’s events are held monthly at the

ICE AGE FOSSILS including a recent Columbian mammoth can be seen inside the the Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire Blvd. NexGen artist-led workshops, an in-gallery activity, and interactive bilingual tours are 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. for children 12 and younger plus their family. This month the Arts of Iran: Celebrate the Persian New Year and welcome spring on Sundays, March 8, 15, 22 and 29. Children will design illuminated calligraphy inspired by the poetry of Rumi. Bring a picnic on March 15 and learn about the traditional Nowruz

table set with items symbolizing life, health, happiness, and prosperity. A free Passover Mega Festival will be at the Zimmer Children’s Museum on Sun., March 29 from 12:30 to 4 p.m. Music and refreshments will be featured in honor of the celebration of freedom, and Storigami, a combination of story-telling and origami will be led by paper artist Joel Stern. A St. Patrick’s Day Storytime is Tues., March 17 at 10 a.m. at Barnes & Noble at The Grove,

189 The Grove Dr. Deck yourself and your little ones out in your greenest duds and spend storytime with the world’s tallest leprechaun. A weekly Children’s Storytime of beloved classics and new favorites is on the Winnie-the-Ppooh stage Sundays at 2 p.m. and Tuesdays at 10 a.m. For more events and information call the store at 323-525-0270. In honor of Farmers Market’s 75th anniversary, arts and crafts family workshops will be held on Sundays July 12 and July 26 from noon to 3 p.m. Visit farmersmarketla.com for more events and information. A huge green, rolling expanse, Pan Pacific Park’s outdoor features include barbecue pits and picnic tables, a lighted baseball diamond and basketball courts, an amphitheatre, jogging path, playground and multi-purpose playing field. The park at 7600 Beverly Blvd., which includes a recreation center, hosts sports leagues, classes and programs including t-ball, baseball and basketball, dance classes, gymnastics and tennis. An activities catalog can be picked up at the recreation center, or viewed online at www.laparks.org,

Where

Big areIdeas explored through interactive play

6505 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles 323.761.8998 • zimmermuseum.org

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Price is right: free activities abound along the Mile Looking for something to do that won’t bust your budget? There are all sorts of things to do for free in the Miracle Mile. The Grove The Kids Club at The Grove is designed to give youngsters a special outing to look forward to every week. Members, along with parents and/or caregivers, meet on Thursdays from 11 am. to 1 p.m. for age-appropriate music, dance and entertainment. Kids Club membership includes a free T-shirt, special birthday treat by mail, a monthly calendar, and invitations to special events. Sign up at Concierge Services desk by the central valet parking entrance. Barnes and Noble Every month, a series of author events are free at The Grove’s Barnes & Noble bookstore. Jen Calonita, senior editor at “Teen People,” will discuss “Secrets of My Hollywood Life”

MISS AMERICA Katie Strom helped store manager Erik Lee flip and serve free stacks of pancakes to Miracle Mile IHOP patrons on National Pancake Day in February. Donations from IHOP customers will go to the Children’s Miracle Network, benefitting children’s hospitals throughout the country.

on Sat., March 7, 2 p.m. TV host Tavis Smiley will speak about his book

“Accountable” on Mon., March 9 at 7 p.m. Photographer Scout Tufankkjian, who cov-

ered President Barack Obama’s campaign, will present “Yes We Can” on Wed., March 18 at 7:30 p.m. Jodi Picoult will read from “Handle with Care,” a novel about life’s fragility, on Fri., March 20 at 7:30 p.m. Beverly Hills matchmaker Marla Martenson will discuss “Good Date, Bad Date” on Thurs., March 26 at 7:30 p.m. Alan Brennert will explore “Honolulu,” his tale of a Korean immigrant in 1914, on Fri., March 27 at 7 p.m. Learn to land a job as a TV writer at a screenwriter’s workshop by “Small Screen, Big Picture” author Chad Gervich on Tues., March 31 at 7:30 p.m. IHOP Bring the kids 12 and under to the Miracle Mile IHOP, where they’ll get a free meal for each adult meal you purchase every day from 4 to 10

p.m. Patrons 55 and over get a free regular menu item for every one purchased, also from 4 to 10 p.m. IHOP, 5655 Wilshire Blvd., is open 24 hours a day. LACMA The Los Angeles County Art Museum hosts free jazz concerts on Friday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. April through November. The Friday Night Jazz series takes place outdoors in the Los Angeles Times Central Court at LACMA, 5905 Wilshire Blvd. The museum also hosts chamber music concerts Sundays at 6 p.m. Included is a survey of Haydn keyboard works featuring New England Conservatory prizewinning students, with pianist Qing Jiang on March 22. The concerts are streamed live on www.lacma.org, and heard by delayed broadcast on Wednesdays at noon on KCSN, 88.5 FM.

The Original Farmers Market

Spring VARIETY’S LOGO is seen for miles around.

Market Meals

New tenants, new sign at 5900 Variety, the entertainment industry’s daily newspaper, has its logo shining over Miracle Mile. The red neon sign was recently placed on top of the 5900 Wilshire building, signifying the move to its new address. Variety and its sister companies Marketcast and Home Entertainment Group have leased the top three floors of the 31-story building. The building recently completed a $34 million renovation project. Wayne Ratkovich, building owner, said work is starting on an extension of Ogden Ave. to Wilshire Blvd. this will enable pedestrians to walk directly across the street from the 5900 Building to the Los Angeles Country Museum of Art.

The Grocers of Farmers Market are teaming up to create a weekly collection of easy-to-prepare

springtime menus featuring the freshest offerings of the season. Each week we’ll showcase a new meal menu and recipes created by JoAnn Cianciulli, author of “The Original Farmers Market Cookbook” (on sale May 1st). Weekly menus, recipes and special prices from the grocers can be found on flyers throughout the Market and online at www.farmersmarketla.com.

Listen to KNX1070’s food guru Melinda Lee each Saturday and Sunday at the 10am hour to hear the week’s Spring Market Meal menu. “Food News with Melinda Lee” Saturdays & Sundays 10am–1pm

The The Grocers Grocers of of Farmers Farmers Market Market

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Larchmont Chronicle

22ND annual edition

Miracle Mile 2009 13

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14 Miracle Mile 2009

22ND annual edition

Larchmont Chronicle

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Larchmont Chronicle

22ND annual edition

Miracle Mile 2009 15

An Oasis within a City Every Convenience is offered in the 160-acre site New colors decorate tower buildings.

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 units share a common green space.

Public plazas. The fountain at Burnside Circle is in the center of a park with a refreshment stand. Alandele Circle features a volleyball court and children’s playground. Curson Square has an adjacent outdoor café.

CORPORATE APARTMENTS

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. 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 Book Discussion Group, Bridge Club, Brush Up Your Shakespeare, English as a Second Language, Library, Writers Group, Community Garden and the chess club. 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 the junior Olympic swimming pool. Park La Brea is fiber optically “wired” so that residents enjoy both high-speed Internet access and state-of-the-art cable services.

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.

A second swimming pool is nearing completion.

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 salt water pool will be opening in the Spring. 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. 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.

The Grove, the city’s premiere shopping center, is a few steps away from Park La Brea.

16 Miracle Mile 2009

Larchmont Chronicle

22ND annual edition

Mid City Council focuses on communication, outreach By Laura Eversz Development, quality of life issues and community outreach, at the forefront of the Mid City West Community Council’s (MCWCC) agenda over the past year, will remain at the top of the list over the upcoming months, according to board chairman Andrew Lachman. Promoting galleries, restaurants Among ongoing activities is the popular monthly Miracle Mile Art Walk that “introduces galleries in the Mile to art lovers within the community, and it brings in people from outside the area too,” said Lachman. “It’s a way for us to focus attention on the strong arts community we have in our district, while promoting the galleries and restaurants.” MCWCC represents 50,000 residents, business owners and employees who live and work from La Brea Ave. to Beverly Hills, Olympic/San Vicente boulevards to West Hollywood. It continues to contribute towards improvements such as landscaping at Fairfax High School, and recently honored the school’s award-winning marching band with a certificate of achievement. Teaming up

THE MONTHLY Miracle Mile Art Walk, sponsored by the MCWCC, introduces art lovers to galleries in the Mile.

Recently, the Council joined forces with the Fairfax and Third Street Business associations, and the Melrose Area Neighborhood Action to host a forum for L.A. City Council District 5 candidates. Lachman points to the fight against graffiti as another example of how Mid City has worked with other organizations within the community to improve the quality of life. “We raised matching funds with Melrose Action to hire a company to come in and clean up graffiti in the corridor. “We also continue to contribute to plans to improve the median on Fairfax,” said Lachman. He is proud of the changes that have been made with regard to land use review for development

projects. “In the past, there wasn’t a consistent approach. However, now developers are coming to us before they submit to the zoning board, which allows us to give input on the project prior to its submission.” The Council has been working with the city to cut the number of advertising locations in the district. “Between pillars and bus stops, we had more ads in our district than in any other in the city,” Lachman said. “But we worked with councilman Jack Weiss, and we were able to cut that number in half.” Traffic mitigation “We’ve also teamed up with the city on The Grove traffic mitigation plan, and we’ve supported the subway to the sea,” he added. New boundaries that were

Art lovers can browse through local galleries for free during Art Walks on the third Saturday of every month. Sponsored by the Mid City West Community Council, the event includes free transportation by the Holly Trolley. Board the trolley for this month’s event on March 21 at 1 p.m. at 170 S . LaBrea Ave. An artist talk and reception with refreshments by Café Midi begins at 2 p.m. at Couturier Gallery, 166 N. La Brea Ave. “Afterwards, we’ll have the Holly Trolley take us to Fahey/Klein Gallery at 148 N. LaBrea, and then to Thomas Paul Fine Arts at 8270 Beverly Blvd. who will each host artist talks,” said Rebecca Ver Straten-McSparran, chairman of the Council’s Arts & Recreation Committee who organized the walk. The day will conclude with an after party from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Voila! Gallery, 518 N. La Brea Ave. A map of galleries and bus stops is available at each gallery and online at www.midcitywest.org.

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drawn with the opening of the Olympic Division police station “finally put our whole district into one division,” said Lachman. Council members on the Police Advisory Commission have worked on the transition. Encouraging inclusion Lachman says the Council’s goals continue to be improving the quality of life in the district, and serving as a facilitator between stake-holders and the city. To that end, “we’ve focused on improving the tone of debates on the Council. Many neighborhood councils are known for their acrimony, but that really hasn’t been the case for us. We have leadership that has not only focused on opening up communications within the board, but also on encouraging inclusion and civility.” The Council is constantly trying to improve ways of doing outreach, of identifying issues and finding ways to improve communication within the community,” said Lachman. One way to stay informed is through the council’s website, that is currently being overhauled. “People can find meeting agendas, a calendar of events and information about various council committee activities at midcitywest.org.”

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22ND annual edition

Larchmont Chronicle

Miracle Mile 2009 17

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

FOUNDED 1986 OFFICERS AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD Walter N. Marks, III Walter N. Marks, Inc.

We the People Dare to Prepare

FOUNDER-PRESIDENT Lyn MacEwen Cohen Vice President Jerome H. Snyder J. H. Snyder Co. Vice President Jim O’ Sullivan Miracle Mile Residential Assoc. Secretary Greg Holihan Prime Group Park La Brea Historian Jane Gilman Larchmont Chronicle Treasurer Terri Reno RREEF

Miracle Mile Safety Summit on Emergency Preparedness June 2009 “Ready or Not”

Circle of Friends Circle of Strength

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 Hatzolah of Los Angeles Larchmont Chronicle LA/Hollywood Beautification Team LA City Fire Station 61 / Battalion 18 LA County Museum of Art LA Craft & Folk Art Museum Legacy Partners Walter N. Marks, Inc. Miracle Mile Chamber of Commerce Miracle Mile Residential Association Natural History Museum of LA County Page Museum at La Brea Tar Pits Petersen Automotive Museum PLB Management/Prime Group/ Park La Brea RREEF Screen Actors Guild Screen Actors Guild Foundation Sieroty Company Inc. J. H. Snyder Company The ARTery USA The Original Farmers Market The Ratkovich Company Tiger West Capitol/5410 Wilshire Wilshire Community Police Advisory Board Wilshire Courtyard

Wilshire Median Groundbreaking and Greening

Dedication of “Museum Row”

“GoodHeart Awards” with American Girl Place LA and The ARTery

23 Years of Promises Kept

Model LAFD Adopt A Fire Station #61.

“United We Plant” with LAPD and LA/Hollywood Beautification Team.

OF COUNSEL Marc S. Cohen Kaye Scholer LLP HONORARY MEMBERS Erroll G. Southers, Associate Director USC Homeland Security Center for Excellence Councilmember Tom LaBonge Councilmember Jack Weiss Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky Assemblymember Mike Feuer Councilmember Jan Perry Councilmember Herb Wesson

• • • • • • •

Adopt Fire Station 61, Battalion 18 “Calendar of Courage” for LAFD “United We Plant” honoring 9/11 victims with LA/HBT Alliance with the 9/12 Community at Ground Zero Wilshire Median Advisory Board Contemporary History of Hancock Park Greening the Miracle Mile

Wilshire Green Park 20th Anniversary. Mother Nature; Valentine’s Day in May

• • • • • • •

Miracle Mile Safety Summit Museum Row on Miracle Mile Community Design Overlay District Cooperation with Museums to Enhance & Protect Hancock Co. Park Monitor Wilshire Transportation Issues GoodHeart Awards Romancing the Miracle Mile

For inquiries, Wally Marks 310-204-1865

Lyn MacEwen Cohen

Rick Caruso

Walter N. Marks III

Jim O’Sullivan

Marc Cohen

Tom LaBonge

Hank Hilty

Dan James

Wayne Ratkovich

Terri Reno

Jerome Snyder

Erroll G. Southers

Luisa Acosta-Franco

Jane Gilman

Miracle Milestones Since 1986

Zev Yaroslavsky

Jim Gilson

18 Miracle Mile 2009

Larchmont Chronicle

22ND annual edition

Chamber growth coincides with revitalization of area By Chris H. Sieroty Five men met at Callender’s on Wilshire Blvd. in 1997 where they shared stories about the challenges of operating a business along the Miracle Mile. They decided to reactivate the Miracle Mile Chamber of Commerce, an organization dormant for many years. Today, the Chamber has more than 100 members and plays a key role in attracting new businesses to the area and supporting current company owners through monthly meetings and a newsletter. “Miracle Mile is a desirable neighborhood,” said Steve Kramer, president and a founding member of the Chamber. “We have built a strong business community. We have a good retention rate, even in this current economy.” Kramer explained a lot has improved over the last 13 years, including the organization’s clout at Los Angeles City Hall. “When we went downtown 13 years ago, we were patted on the head and told to come back,” he said. “Now with our membership we can get things done. City Councilman Tom LaBonge has always looked out for us. Sharing informa-

and generate business,” she said. By connecting people, the Chamber has been influential in revitalizing the area, Pleger added. On a community level, Pleger said the Chamber played a supportive role when the El Rey Theatre was fighting with area residents over noise and parking. In January 2008, the Chamber sponsored a 5K walk/run fundraiser for local schools. This year’s event will be included in TarFest, a threeday arts festival scheduled for Sept. 25-27. The Chamber also

along Wilshire Boulevard. “We were instrumental in getting street parking back on Wilshire from Beverly Hills to Park Mile,” he said. “It totally changed things. It brought businesses back to Miracle Mile because customers could find street parking during the day.” Corinne Pleger, a partner in Brakensiek Leavitt Pleger LLP and a board member, said the organization provides a sense of community. “The Chamber has been a resource not only for our firm, but for our clients to network

hosts a reception at LACMA during TarFest. TarFest is a festival of emerging film, music and art held annually since 2003 at the La Brea Tar Pits and the surrounding Museum Row, said Kramer. He is also chairman of TarFest and the Miracle Mile Players, a non-profit company created in 2000 to produce events geared to improving the quality of life in the Miracle Mile. Besides monthly luncheons, the Chamber hosts the Wilshire Corridor Forums, These meetings bring together developers, architects, business leaders and city officials (Please turn to page 26)

STEVE KRAMER introduces Nikki Ezhari, Councilman Tom LaBonge's field deputy, at recent meeting.

tion between us is a vital aspect to getting firms to locate to the Miracle Mile.” Kramer said the Chamber has never been a lobbying organization. Instead it has worked with various city departments to get improvements made to Wilshire Boulevard in support of the commercial and nearby residential communities. More than a decade ago, the Chamber worked with the city to get streetlights and additional traffic lights installed

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10.5x16Closer:Layout 1 5/7/08 Larchmont Chronicle

3:50 PM

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22ND annual edition

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I Treating people well. 5900 W. Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036

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f you haven’t been to Olympia Medical Center lately, come take a closer look at your community hospital. You already know us for our 24-hour emergency services, acute medical treatment, quality care and convenient access. But step inside our newly renovated facility and you’ll find one of LA’s best-kept secrets: a 2008 HealthGrades five-star rated hospital with renowned physicians, highly specialized programs and groundbreaking research. We offer services you’d find at much larger facilities, but delivered with the attention and care you only get at a community hospital.

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20 Miracle Mile 2009

Larchmont Chronicle

22ND ANNUAL EDITION

Miracle Mile Players hold annual TarFest

CELEBRATE with music and activities at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

Some of the city’s hottest emerging artists and performers will showcase their talents during the seventh annual TarFest in September, considered the premiere arts and culture event in the Miracle Mile community. “Annually, over 150 artists and performers display their talents for 5,000 Angelenos of all ages,” said James Panozzo, executive director of Miracle Mile Players, Inc. “TarFest turns the one-mile historic stretch of Wilshire Boulevard into a site of cul-

tural dynamism and energy,” he added. TarFest will kick off with a luncheon to salute its sponsors and supporters on Thurs., Sept. 24 at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Three days of art and culture will commence on Fri., Sept. 25 with an opening reception at the Korean Cultural Center, 5505 Wilshire Blvd. On Sat., Sept. 26, a film festival and art show will be presented at the Korean Cultural Center from noon to 6 p.m. A music festival will also take

place at the El Rey Theatre. A second annual Miracle Mile Grand Prix, including a one-mile run and 5K, is on Sun., Sept. 27. Following the event, spectators and participants are invited to celebrate with music, activities and refreshments at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. TarFest beneficiaries include the LAPD Wilshire Division Explorers, LACMA Arts for NexGen and arts and athletic programs at Fairfax High School.

Miracles do exist during happy hour along the Mile With tougher economic times in our midst, what better way to save on dining and entertainment than through storied Happy Hour? Not often available in Los Angeles, several bars in the Miracle Mile area have recently brought back this parsimonious tradition, offering discounted drinks and appetizers. Long a mainstay for nearby residents, Tom Club Bergins is the place Scene to head for by that afterMaren work drink. Clifford We e k d a y s and Amy from 4 Priore p.m., receive $2 off all cocktails, discounted beer and wine, and an array of Happy Hour snacks from $3 to $5. Come search for names of friends on the shamrocks adorning the walls and ceilings, and chat with Michael, bartender extraordinaire. Don’t forget to end the evening with the best Irish Coffee around, made with a decadent float of real cream. We must make up for all those nonfat lattes once in awhile. For a Happy Hour that literally does not quit, head west on Wilshire to Callender’s Grill and Bakery. They offer $2 off all drinks from 3 to 10 p.m. week days, and have a special Happy Hour menu with pizzas, quesadillas and the delectable (spoken from experience) fish tacos, all at the bargain price of $5. For a hip Happy Hour experience, head down to LIFE on Wilshire (that’s actually the name, not just the geographic description!). Receive $2 off all drinks from 4 to 7 p.m., and half price on its variety of small plates. I sampled the grilled cheese made with three types EXTRA COPIES For additional copies of the 2009 Miracle Mile edition, call The Larchmont Chronicle at 323-462-2241, extension 13.

of cheese and caramelized onion at the discounted rate of $4. They offer quite a variety of dishes, including blackened scallops made with a pomegranate reduction and served with a cilantro mint sauce. Normally a $12 item, the happy hour price makes this a real deal. The drink menu includes specialty cocktails such as Vanilla Cake, made with Stoli Vanil and Frangelico; definitely sweet enough to count as dessert. Meeting a friend recently for dinner and a cocktail, and collectively spending about $20, led this jaded Los Angeleno to believe that miracles do exist along this famous stretch of Wilshire Boulevard. Tom Bergins, 840 S. Fairfax Ave., 323-936-7151. Callender’s Grill & Bakery, 5773 Wilshire Blvd., 323-937-7952. LIFE on Wilshire, 6311 Wilshire Blvd., 323-651-5433.

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Larchmont Chronicle

22 Miracle Mile 2009

Larchmont Chronicle

22ND annual edition

Relax, enjoy the vibe at area coffee establishments Compiled by Josh Herman

THIS HOUSE AT 927 S. Ogden Dr. sold in November 2008. It was listed at $815,000.

Miracle Mile real estate sales* Average listing price for single family homes in the neighborhood is $815,000. Condominiums built in the mid-1980s are listed from $400,000.

816 S. Masselin Ave. 816 S. Cloverdale Ave. 1038 S. Dunsmuir Ave. 815 S. Ogden Dr. 925 S. Ridgeley Dr. 903 S. Hauser 821 S. Spaulding Ave. 917 S. Odgen Dr. 1014 S. Dunsmuir Ave. 927 S. Ogden Dr. 928 S. Stanley 845 S. Cloverdale Ave.

$1,510,000 1,200,000 1,187,000 1,180,000 1,101,000 1,081,000 1,050,000 1,025,000 842,500 815,000 599,000 414,000

Condominiums 724 S. Stanley, #12 724 S. Stanley, #2

500,000 422,353

* List prices

The following is an assortment of Miracle Mile coffee houses that offer ambiance along with café latte. Black Dog Coffee 5657 Wilshire Blvd. In the heart of Miracle Mile, this coffeehouse promises, and delivers, on its motto: “Great Food, Great Coffee, Great People.” On purple walls, painted bottles acting as vases, plates with Victoriania art, a photo of a man holding the sign “Will work for latte.” Plenty of room both inside and out to work on that screenplay. Bite: goat cheese, arugula and sun-dried tomatoes on michette ($6.25). Drink: Café Cubano, espresso latte, sweetened with a dollop of condensed milk ($3.25). *** Massimo’s Mudspot 759 S. La Brea Ave. Your college coffeehouse is alive and well in this neighborly spot. Upholstered sofa and chairs, a chalkboard menu, a 1980s arcade game, future playwrights using the wifi connection, even a barista wearing a bandana. Comfort is served as promptly, and as warmly, as its drinks. Bite: the chocolate cheesecake brownie ($4.65). Drink: Pirate’s Chai, a spicy buccaneer that burns and pillages your taste-

buds ($4.95). *** Starbucks 5355 Wilshire Blvd. Farmers Market There’s comfort in continuity, and here you know that you’ll always get the same flavored coffee—whether in your neighborhood or some foreign airport. Bite: Any pastry (under FUTURE PLAYWRIGHTS gather at Massimo’s $5). Drink: Pike Mudspot, 759 S. La Brea Ave. Place Roast, it’s chili over fresh-cut potatoes always available, fresh, and is simply a good cup of ($6.00). Drink: Coffee of the day; self-serve, fresh, hot and coffee ($1.60). only $1.80 for a large cup. *** *** Café Back Door Insomnia 5484 Wilshire Blvd. 7286 Beverly Blvd. Tucked behind the hair sa If a gothic castle opened lons, video stores and fast-food sandwich shops of Wilshire is a coffeehouse, this would be this elixir to them all—“The it—metal chandeliers, velour Miracle Mile’s Alternative Art drapes, burgundy couches. Other writers and readers reGallery and Café.” Though the future of the spect a code of quiet, allowing space-as-gallery is unknown, you to talk with a first date or with its wooden and met- rewrite that novel. al chairs, open spaces, and But bring your cash—no bright green and yellow ta- plastic accepted. Bite: from bles, Back Door still has the MILK next door, a combinafeel of an adolescent art stu- tion bake shop and ice-cream dio. Bite: turkey chili fries; a parlor. Drink: the frothy, milky thick, hominy-infused turkey hot chocolate ($2.99).

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22ND annual edition

Larchmont Chronicle

Miracle Mile 2009 23

Farmers Market, born during the Depression to aid farmers Once a dairy farm and later an oil field, Farmers Market is celebrating its 75th year as a Los Angeles landmark. It was in July, 1934 that a contingent of farmers pulled their trucks onto empty land at the corner of Third and Fairfax, and displayed their produce on the tailgates of their vehicles. Farmers Market became an instant institution. Arthur Fremont Gilmore had no plans for a world-renowned institution when he moved to Los Angeles from Illinois in 1870. He purchased 256 acres on which he created a dairy farm. At the turn of the century, while drilling for water for his herd of dairy cows, A.F. Gilmore hit oil. By 1905, the dairy was gone and the Gilmore Oil Company was providing fuel

to power the coming automobile age. In 1921, Early Bell (E.B.) Gilmore, Arthur’s son, went on to create a vast oil and gas distribution network. The independent oil company became the largest in the west. Roger Dahlhjelm and Fred Beck, two entrepreneurs trying to make the best of the Depression years, approached E.B. Gilmore with the idea of a place where farmers could sell their products. The farmers were charged a mere 50¢ per day “rent”—but the idea had a power all its own. Farmers Market grew bigger and better. Politicians, film stars and professional athletes began to make Farmers Market a daily stop, and its appeal is even greater today, 75 years later.

Guaranteed Income for Life = Peace of Mind Good Samaritan Hospital’s Alternative to Low CD Rates In today’s uncertain financial environment, a dependable, fixed income with a good payout rate is more appealing than ever. A gift annuity with Good Samaritan Hospital is a reliable way to guarantee a life income and make a positive impact on medical excellence in our community. You and/or a loved one can receive a lifetime of payments earning up to 9.5%, earn a charitable deduction for a portion of the value of the gift and secure partially income tax-free payments. To learn more about giving options with Good Samaritan Hospital, please call (213) 977-2921, or visit us at www.goodsam.org/charity.

SAFETY SUMMIT participants who attended the annual event last June.

Civic Coalition goal: emergency preparedness With a motto of “We the People Dare to Prepare,” the Miracle Mile Civic Coalition is continuing its mission to educate the public on emergency preparedness and homeland security. Key officials will be sharing pertinent information at the Miracle Mile Civic Coalition’s fifth annual Safety Summit, Ready or Not: Resilience!” to be held in June at the Screen Actors Guild headquarters. Security officials from museums and office buildings, business leaders and the media will attend this year’s conference, said Lyn MacEwen Cohen, MMCC founder and president. Previous conferences have drawn national and state officials in homeland security. The greening of Miracle Mile is another key objective of the

Single 5.0% 5.7% 7.1% 9.5%

September at Hancock County Park to dedicate trees in honor of the anniversary of 9/11 with LA/Hollywood Beautification Team, at the “United We Plant” installation. The Coalition is providing outreach of support to the Fire Department through its citywide model project, Adopt-AStation.

CIVIC LEADERS attend United We Plant Ceremony.

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group. Speeches, a dance presentation and a visit by Mother Nature highlighted the 20th anniversary celebration of Wilshire Green Park on May 10, 2008. The establishment of the park was one of the Coalition’s first milestones. Jerry Snyder, Wilshire Courtyard developer, agreed to donate a one-acre strip of land behind the building. Today, Wilshire Courtyard’s general manager, Terri Reno, of RREEF, is directing the maintenance of the park’s original design and historic landscape including recent restoration of the art deco gazebo with MMCC and MMRA cooperation and approval. Also, MMCC joined civic leaders and six consul generals with the City at its Emergency Preparedness Fair in

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24 Miracle Mile 2009

Larchmont Chronicle

22ND annual edition

Get fit, reach your goals with swimming, pole dancing, cardio yoga Whether you’re looking to lose weight, build endurance or tone muscles, Miracle Mile offers a variety of programs to help you reach your fitness goals. Bace Pilates 5225 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 202 323-939-6333 www.bacepilates.com Pilates, cardio yoga and martial arts are combined for a one-of-a-kind workout at Bace Pilates, which offers private and semi-private sessions, as well as mat classes.

Curves 5001 Wilshire Blvd. 323-937-8767 www.curves.com At Curves, clients receive an all-around workout on a 30-minute circuit of cardio and weight training machines.

S Factor 5225 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 222 323-965-9685 www.sfactor.com Pole dancing, lap dance and striptease classes for all shapes, sizes and ages are offered at S Factor, where students can take a series of sessions or individual classes.

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MILITARY-STYLE DRILLS get you in shape at Boot Camp L.A.

Hancock Park Swim Club 818-842-0009 323-379-8999 Hancockparkswimclub.com Hancock Park Swim Club instructors teach swimming and racing techniques, lifeguard certification and overall fitness. Swimmers meet at Marlborough High School and Los Angeles Tennis Club. L.A. Fitness 5950 Wilshire Blvd. 323-934-6150 www.lafitness.com Members enjoy yoga, cardio kickboxing, hip-hop, salsa and belly dancing classes.

The club offers memberships on a monthly basis without long-term contracts.

Tax & Financial Accounting Services

Lenny Krayzelburg Swim School 9930 Santa Monica Blvd. (temporary) 323-525-0323 www.lennykswim.com Swimming instruction for beginners to advanced, parent and tot classes as well as classes for those wanting to overcome fear of water or improve their lap swims. Temporarily located at 9930 Santa Monica Blvd. during Westside Jewish Community Center’s renovations.

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Boot Camp L.A. 5801 Wilshire Blvd. 323-938-6179 www.bootcampla.com During sessions at Hancock County Park behind the Page Museum, recruits do stretches, push-ups, sit-ups, flutter kicks, military style drills, strength workouts using padded weighted bars, dumbbells, medicine balls, circuit training, and running.

Meridian Sports Club 5750 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 175 323-933-5875 www.bodiesinmotion.com Classes in yoga, Pilates, swimming, dance, step, cycling and water aerobics. Meridian also has a kids’ club and private certified fitness training.

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Legal Services Network

aarp LeGaLServiceS Are you a member of AARP? Did you know that as a member you are entitled to a consultation with an AARP Legal Services Network Provider at NO COST to you? Discounts on most legal services are available to members.

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Need further information? Call the Kramer Law Group at 323-964-7100 Ask for Stephen W. Kramer, Participating Member

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22ND annual edition

Larchmont Chronicle

Elementary Schools Cathedral Chapel School 755 S. Cochran Ave. Ph: 323-938-9976 Principal: Tina Kipp Grades: K to 8, 288 students Hancock Park Elementary 408 S. Fairfax Ave. Ph: 323-935-5272 Principal: Judith A. Perez Grades: K to 5, 702 students

5600 Wilshire Blvd. Studios 1 bdrm 2 bdrm Entrance on Ridgley Ave. $1800 $2275 $2875 Pet friendly call for rates, 866-682-6120 2 bdrm 3 bdrm $2395 $3155

Museum Terrace 600 S. Curson Pet friendly

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2 bdrm $1950

Palm Court 740 S. Burnside Ave.

1 bdrm $1700

2 bdrm 3 bdrm $2100 $2800

Tiffany Court 616 S. Masselin Cat friendly

1 bdrm $1800

2 bdrm $2359

Villas @ Park La Brea 5555 W. Sixth St. Pet friendly

1 bdrm $1879

Wilshire Private School 4900 Wilshire Blvd. Ph: 323-939-3800 Principal: Marlin Miller Grades: K to 6, 100 students Middle Schools John Burroughs Middle School 600 S. McCadden Pl. Ph: 323-549-5000 Principal: Mirta A. McKay Grades: 6 to 8, 1,777 students

2 bdrm 3 bdrm $2703 $4882

Palazzo East 1 bdrm 348 S. Hauser $2450 Pet friendly

2 bdrm 3 bdrm $2930 $4299

Viridian Apartments 5659 W. 8th St. Pet friendly

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High Schools Fairfax High School 7850 Melrose Ave.

Ph: 323-370-1200 Principal: Edward M. Zubiate Grades: 9 to 12, 2,379 students Los Angeles High School 4650 W. Olympic Blvd. Ph: 323-900-2700 Principal: Elena Brown Grades: 9 to 12, 3,079 students

Cathedral Chapel School • Kindergarten through 8th grade • Classroom Internet Access • Apple Mac Computer Lab with Internet Access • Instrumental Music Program • Departmentalized Jr High • CYO Sports • Lunch Service • Extended Day Care • Honors Math Program • Outreach Concern Counseling Program • Fully Accredited by WASC & WCEA • Spanish Program

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Avalon 1 bdrm 5100 Wilshire Blvd. $1995 Cat friendly

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Wilshire Crest Elementary 5241 W. Olympic Blvd. Ph: 323-938-5291 Principal: Joan C. McConico Grades: K to 5, 334 students

New Los Angeles Charter School 5100 Wilshire Blvd. Ph: 323-939-6400 Principal: Matt Albert (opened 2008-2009 school year) Grades 6 to 8, 75 students

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The following public and private schools are located in the Miracle Mile area (Highland to Fairfax avenues).

Both cats and dogs are welcome at 5600 Wilshire, the newest apartment home in the Miracle Mile Park La Brea and many of the area’s other apartment complexes are admitting pets. Other amenities at housing complexes in the area include wifi connections, fitness centers and community rooms. The following rates reflect the beginning rents and are subject to change.

Museum Gardens 1 bdrm 5353 Wilshire Blvd. $2063 Pet friendly

Miracle Mile 2009 25

School Directory

Pets now welcomed at apartments in the Mile

Park La Brea 5900 W. Third St. Pet friendly

26 Miracle Mile 2009

Larchmont Chronicle

22ND annual edition

Winners in survey on ‘best of’ businesses along Mile watermelon juice, you’re in heaven. Loteria Grill, 6333 Third St., 323-930-2211.

The following is a survey conducted by Miracle Mile resident Chris Sieroty.

Best Doughnuts Bob’s Coffee and Best Indian Food Doughnuts India’s Tandoori Bob’s Coffee and Doughnuts Authentic is a perfect example of a busiIndian cuisine can ness that has been around for be hard to find in decades but still remains the Los Angeles. But same. Inside the open-air Los India’s Tandoori Angeles Farmers Market, the on Wilshire is the business has been a place for locals to get a bite before IT DOESN'T GET MUCH better than Bob's, best. The restaurant is comfortwork that has been around practically a Farmers Market institution. ably nestled in almost as long as the Market among a variety and a cup of coffee. (75 years). It’s a nice place to of small businesses and offers Bob’s Coffee & Doughnuts, pick up a chocolate-glazed doughnut or a buttermilk bar 6333 Third St., 323-933-8922. an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet for $9.95. India’s Tandoori, 5468 Best Mexican Food Wilshire Blvd., 323-936-2050. Loteria Grill So you’re at the Best Barber Farmers Market lookLegends Barber Shop ing for a bite. So many food choices, what Legends is very nicely furto do? Head over to nished. Red leather barber Loteria Grill. The food chairs, hardwood floors, minihere is undeniably LCD TV screens at the stagood. The taco sampler tions, one gigantic 70-inchplatter is my favorite plus plasma screen on the with bite-sized tacos back wall make it the perfect with perfect garnishes. place to get a haircut while SAY "I LOVE YOU," "happy birthday" With a side of chips and watching sports. In addition and "get well" in countless ways. guacamole and a fresh to the $25 ($20 for local high school students) haircuts, they have a tattoo parlor and a VIP lounge. Legends Barber Shop, 5366 (Continued from page 18) green building standards, Wilshire Blvd., 323-707-4539.

vices. City Print gets my vote as best place around. They do top notch printing of business cards, stationery, flyers. City Print, 5328 Wilshire Blvd., (323) 456-7966. Best Greeting Cards PERFECT spot for a hair cut. Legends also has a tattoo parlor. Walgreen’s Row after row of greeting card selecincluding those on recycled tions provide many choices paper and a section of cards for buyers. Two full aisles at selling for 99 cents. Walgreen’s are devoted to Walgreen’s, 5467 Wilshire Hallmark’s varied selection Blvd., 323-525-0311.

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adaptive reuse and new construction along Wilshire Boulevard,” he said. “These forums allow our members to take part in a discussion of issues affecting both the commercial area and Miracle Mile residents, he added. Meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at local restaurants, museums and businesses. For more information go to miraclemilechamber.org.

Best Copy Store City Print Along the Miracle Mile, there are several businesses that offer copy, fax and printing ser-

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to discuss issues critical to the area’s future. “They focus on the larger issues that affect the area from transportation to building standards. Open to the public, the next meeting is scheduled for April.” Kramer said past forums have allowed the Chamber to bring together officials to get out information about Metro’s Expo line and the proposed subway to the sea. “We have held forums on

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22ND annual edition

Larchmont Chronicle

Miracle Mile 2009 27

BUILT IN 1926 BUILDING BOOM

La Brea Theater now home to a church

Centers showcase culture through music, art, movies Miracle Mile is home to three cultural centers where you can be immersed in the art, music and dance of Germany, the Middle East and Korea. An accurate view of contemporary Germany is the goal of The Goethe-Institut Los Angeles at 5858 Wilshire Blvd. An important goal of the Goethe-Institut is to promote international cultural cooperation and dialogue by organizing a variety of events to present German culture. The center hosts a Sunday Morning Movie series in conjunction with its Monday Night Concerts in Zipper Hall. The media lounge of the center serves as a resource for those interested in Germany, and for those interested in teaching and studying German as a foreign language. A collection of German videos and DVD’s, books, magazines, periodicals and media titles are available for loan. *** Levantine Cultural Center

is a contemporary arts center featuring the Middle East and North Africa. Located just south of Miracle Mile at 5998 W. Pico Blvd., its mission is to present literary, performing and visual arts programs to diverse audiences. Recent programs include a concert by Qadim as part of its west coast tour. It is one in an ongoing series of events at the Levantine Cultural Center that addresses Middle Eastern issues. Founded in 2001, the center seeks to inform both the general public and the media about the Arab/Muslim world through its culture, history, creative production and intellectual achievement. *** Movies, art exhibits and language classes are a few of the programs offered at the Korean Cultural Center, 5505 Wilshire Blvd. The center enables the general public to experience the rich traditions and history of Korea through specialized pro-

grams, sponsored events and multiple learning resources. On Fri., March 27, the Center will present the Korean Performing Arts Showcase with musicians and dancers at 7:30 p.m. Operated by the Korean government’s ministry of culture, sports and tourism, the Center is dedicated to providing insights into the cultural heritage of Korea spanning more than 5,000 years.

Publishing’s “Theaters in Los Angeles.” Authors Suzanne Tarbell Cooper, Amy Ronnebeck Hall and Marc Wanamaker chronicle the golden age of movie and vaudeville theaters and update readers on their status. Soaring lobbies, rococo molding, intricate murals and

dripping chandeliers were standard in most of the theaters built in the 1920s and 1930s. Downtown L.A., particularly along Broadway St., has the largest collection of vintage theaters in the world. To order, call 888-313-2665 or visit the website: www.arcadiapublishing.com.

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ONCE A THEATER, the building at Ninth St. and La Brea Ave., has been converted to a church.

Built in 1926 during a theater-building boom in Los Angeles, the La Brea Theater building combines Moorish and Gothic elements. Designed by Richard D. King, the building originally included a radio tower disguised as a steeple. Max Chotiner, husband of silent movie star Alice Calhoun, thought of this building as the centerpiece of his Chotiner Amusement chain. The theater now houses the Bethel Presbyterian Church. The La Brea is featured, along with more than 100 other theaters, in Arcadia

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28 Miracle Mile 2009

22ND annual edition

Larchmont Chronicle