Downtown Los Angeles Weekly

DOWNTOWN W THE SPIRIT OF DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

DTLA WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM VOL 16. NO. 08 MAR 31ST - APRIL 6TH, 2022

THE GREAT OUTDOORS

ANGels LANDING GETS THE

GREENLIGHT GREEN LIGHT SMOKE CITY CHAR BAR FIRES UP THE ARTS DISTRICT

B2B

MARKETING EXPO GET2DTLA EVENT CALENDAR

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THE FOUNDATION OF DOWNTOWN WEEKLY

ON THEDEVELOPERS COVER

VOL 16 NO 08 - MARCH 31ST - APRIL 6TH, 2022 DTLAWEEKLY.COM

location: BUNKERHILL PHOTO by :

VICTOR MACFARLANE & DON PEEBLES

GARY LEONARD

THE CEMENT FILLERS

DTLA WEEKLY

editor and chief KERI FREEMAN

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

KERI FREEMAN christopher floch AMAYA OSWALD abel weiss jaime herrera

photography GARY LEONARD

VIDEO Production

@kerieatsdtla design and layout @kerieatsdtla

social media

@kerieatsdtla ART HUNTER

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SQUARE ONE: OUR WARMEST WELCOME ...5 MASTERS OF TASTE AT THE ROSE BOWL ...6 ANGELS LANDING GETS THE GREENLIGHT...7 APPETITE: SMOKE CITY CHAR BAR ....9 B2B MARKETING EXPO RETURNS ...10 GET2DTLA EVENTS...12 THE ANKLE BITER...13 Special thanks to...

MAYOR OF LOS ANGELES & council district 14 THE CITY OF LA ARTS DISTRICT CHINATOWN CIVIC DISTRICT BUNKER HILL EXPO/USC HISTORIC CORE LITTLE TOKYO FASHION DISTRICT FINANCIAL DISTRICT SKID ROW SOUTH PARK WAREHOUSE DISTRICT THEGRAWN ARTWALK NEWS

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4 DTLA REAL ESTATE EMPIRE PRESENTED BY LOFTWAY

VOL 16 NO 07 - MARCH 10TH - MARCH 16TH, 2022 DTLAWEEKLY.COM

SQUARE ONE: OUR WARMEST WELCOME SQUARE ONE: OUR WARMEST WELCOME

DTLA

SQUARE ONE: OUR WARMEST WELCOME

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here are people who make things happen, there are people who watch things happen, and there are people who wonder what happened.

To be successful, you need to be a person who makes things happen.

-Jim Lovell

ASTERID BUNKER HILL

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SMOKE CITY VIRTU CAFE FASHION DISTRICT CHAR BAR arts district

mr broters cut club GYU KAKU finance district

FINANCE DISTRICT

6 DTLA DOING THE MOST-MASTERS OF TASTE

VOL 16 NO 08 - MARCH 31ST - APRIL 6TH, 2022 DTLAWEEKLY.COM

Meet You on the 50 Yard Line – 2022 Masters of Taste ReturNS to the Rose Bowl

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BACK IN TIME AT DINO ALIVE

Dinos Alive Exhibit: An Immersive Experience. is now welcoming guests of all ages. The exhibit will only continue for a limited time, just like the dinosaurs.

he promise of outdoor food festivals never tasted so good.

Proof and point, Union Station Homeless Services Fifth Annual Masters of Taste returns to the Rose Bowl on Sunday, April 3rd.

brew coffee, live entertainment and more can be found at Union Station’s Masters of Taste.

After two long years, L.A.’s premier outdoor, luxury food and beverage festival will fill again with over 3,000 food and beverage enthusiasts.

“I have had the pleasure of participating in Masters of Taste since its inaugural year,” states Asapahu. “As a proud UCLA alum (Go Bruins!), I’d give anything for the opportunity to cook, eat and dance on the field of the Rose Bowl.”

Masters of Taste is introducing Chef Vanda Asapahu of Ayara Thai Cuisine, Host Chef of Masters of Taste 2022. While her mother Anna Asapahu still helms the family kitchen, Asapahu is the vanguard, taking up the torch of her family’s culinary tradition at Ayara Thai Cuisine, and in May of 2019 named one of MICHELIN Guide California’s 2019 Bib Gourmands.

Here’s an event that utilizes the entire football field of the Rose Bowl, (bleachers 100% of the proceeds from Masters of and all) to celebrate an exhilarating festival, which includes the finest food fare Taste 2022 will directly benefit Union Station Homeless Services. In the last from all over Los Angeles. four years Masters of Taste has raised over LA’s top Beverage Masters will also feature $2 Million in support of Union Station’s life-saving programs. signature handcrafted cocktail tastings from over 25 spirit brands and bars.

Ticket Information: Masters of Taste 2022 will take place on Sunday, April 3rd, 2022, Meet up at the 50-Yard-Line Cocktail and this is a 21+ event. A VIP Power Hour Bar featuring top Mixologists from four will be held from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm and of L.A.’s most distinguished drinking General Admission will be from 4:00 pm to destinations, select wineries, and local 7:00 pm. Tickets will go on sale Sunday, craft breweries. Cold-pressed juices, cold August 1st, 2021. @MastersofTaste

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uests will be able to meet and interact with more than 80 famous dinosaur specimens including the massive T-rex and Stegosaurus and the turkey-sized Velociraptor.

With the help of realistic, life-size installations and moving replicas, Dinos Alive takes you back to the land of giants and brings you face-to-face with the creatures that dominated the animal world for 140 million years.

In addition to moving animatronics, the exhibit will feature a virtual aquarium where guests can immerse themselves into the deep sea and experience the Jurassic sea giants in their natural habitat.

Rebuilt in a large and spacious venue, the 75-minute experience brings these incredible creatures back to life through fun, interactive and educational programs.

From captivating VR technology to spectacular installations, Dinos Alive provides something for people of all ages and also features an interactive space for children, where they can play the paleontologist role and tame some iconic dinosaurs. For the perfect family activity, group discounts are available for purchase. @dinosaliveexhibition

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ANGELS LANDING

8 DTLA REAL ESTATE EMPIRE By KERI FREEMAN

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VOL 16 NO 08 - MARCH 31ST - APRIL 6TH, 2022 DTLAWEEKLY.COM

GETS THE GREENLIGHT

n what would be the windiestrainiest day yet, Council-member Kevin de Leon parted the clouds with rays of mixed-use sunshine for African-American developers Don Peebles and Victor MacFarlane— heralding the go ahead for Angel’s Landing, a $1.6 billion project scheduled for completion sometime before the Olympics in 2028.

An estimated 500 jobs will come from vendors in the L.A. County region providing goods and services to the two luxury hotels.

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Both MacFarlane and Peebles made clear their intentions to provide diversity and inclusion in the building process by allocating at least 30% of acquiring opportunities for minority and women-owned businesses.

esigned by architecture and interior design firm Handel Architects, at 88 floors, Angels Landing will establish its foundation just south of Historic Angels Flight on 3rd and Hill. The completed site will reach high above the tracks, cresting the top of the Bunker Hill skyline and becoming the third tallest development in Los Angeles.

Welcome downtown neighborhood residents, working professionals, nightlife, and tourism.

Angels Landing project plans to erect two towers of hotels, city-view condominiums and apartments, retail and restaurants.

The site will also include Angels Landing Plaza – a modern pedestrian-centered and transit-adjacent urban park with multi-level space for the public and privately managed park amenities.

You get a job! She gets a job… everybody gets a job…

Angels Landing will bring thousands of new jobs and economic benefits to the city and boost L.A.’s local economy by contributing $731 million to local workers’ earnings during its construction.

According to BJH Advisors, more than 8,300 temporary jobs will be created during Angels Landing’s construction, while creating more than 800 permanent jobs in downtown L.A.

“The transformative impact of empowerment and economic inclusion from Angels Landing will be felt by an array of businesses including African American, Latino-and Asian-owned,” said Don Peebles. “We have committed to a goal of 30% minority and women-owned business contracting across the board for our project in excess of over $480 million, and we’re raising the bar for economic inclusion for development projects in L.A.” “With Angels Landing will come desired levels of diversity and inclusion to L.A.’s hospitality industry and the expansive services sector that supports the local hotel industry,” said Victor MacFarlane.

“It’s about time the economic benefits generated by massive projects like this are provided to people who are reflective of the project.”

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VOL 16 NO 08 - MARCH 31ST - APRIL 6TH, 2022 DTLAWEEKLY.COM

In addition to job creation, the project will generate an estimated $12 million in recurring tax revenues and $2.4 million annually in local property tax revenues for the county.

Since launching its urban real estate program in 1996, the firm has invested $13 billion in urban properties.

Say it Loud! …Minority leaders of LA must be proud.

Among the properties are the Time Warner Center and Level BK in New York City, Bay Street Emeryville and Venn on Market in San Francisco, North Bethesda Market in the greater Washington, D.C., and downtowns own Trademark, Park Fifth Tower and the Hotel & Residences at L.A. Live.

Guided by the principles of Affirmative Development™, The Peebles Corporation creates economic opportunity and prosperity environments for minorities and women in business. As the nation’s leader in acquiring and developing large-scale urban properties through public-private partnerships, Peebles has successfully conducted the most successful real estate developments through this method than any other company.

Founded in 1983 by Don Peebles, The Peebles Corporation’s portfolio of active and completed developments totals $8 billion in New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Charlotte, Miami, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.

Founded by Victor B. MacFarlane in 1987, MacFarland Properties has pioneered the urban investment concept among institutional real estate managers in the 1990s. Today MacFarland is a leading investor and developer of properties that promote smart growth, urban revitalization and sustainability in urban and high-density suburban submarkets of top-tier metropolitan areas nationwide.

The project has received solid support from various leading L.A. organizations, including The Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce (GLAAACC), and UNITE HERE! Local 11.

GLAAACC Chairman Gene Hale said, “We’re excited to see the commitment to equity and inclusion through minority-owned and women-owned business procurement and equally high level of diversity in the workforce that will manage and operate its luxury hotels.”

UNITE HERE! Local 11, which represents over 32,000 workers employed in hotels, restaurants, airports, sports arenas and convention centers throughout Southern California, has strongly advocated its support as well.

“Angels Landing is the latest example of how the City of Los Angeles can direct development to lift up its citizens,” said UNITE HERE! Local 11 Co-President Kurt Petersen. @ANGELSLANDINGDLTA

10 10DT APPETITE: SMOKE CITY CHAR BAR BY KERI EATS DTLA

VOL 16 NO 08 - MARCH 31ST - APRIL 6TH, 2022 DTLAWEEKLY.COM

SMOKE CITY CHAR BAR FIRES UP THE ARTS DISTRICT

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moke City Char Bar is firing up the Arts District.

This newly opened sit-down restaurant with a full bar, expansive patio, serves locally sourced meats, naturally smoked onsite by Executive Chef Omari Williams.

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ocated in the Aliso Building at 950 E 3rd, Smoke City fires up a tremendous variety of savory BBQ forerunners we've all grown to know and love.

The team behind the concept includes Ki Yong Choi, owner; Raun Sutton, Executive Chef, Corporate Director of Food and Beverage of Choi's hospitality group, Cathedral Hill Associates (CHA); and Jim Davis, Corporate Director of Operations of CHA. Smoke City Char Bar's craft-smoked meats are smoked onsite. Also, they offer pescatarian, vegan and vegetarian options with hearty plates of salmon and jack fruit. The main dishes are complemented by a sweet flight of house-made dipping sauces, including Cayenne Honey, Molasses Harissa, Soy Ginger, Mustard Seed-Apple Cider.

it of a "This is a b g for me, in homecom happy to o and I am s lents as ta bring my to the er a pitmast up in," w city I gre illiams.

W said Chef

The mix and match style menu allows guests to choose between plated, sandwich, or salad offerings, alongside a variety of scratch sides that puts Smoke City in the running for best BBQ in downtown LA. Starting off strong with an ear of grilled sweet corn, Smoke City Banked Beans, meat enhanced mac n cheese, and Napa Cabbage Slaw - Smoke City finishes first with one of the best BBQ menus this town has ever witnessed.

They could have won the entire competition with just the Cast Iron Skillet cornbread, but then we wouldn't have gotten a chance to root for the Watermelon Salad, tender Baby Back Ribs, BBQ ChickenWings, or the perfectly charred bark of Smoked Beef Brisket.

District-based interior designer Mary Dailinger designed the entire hall, bar, patio relay with local elements, including artwork, LA-made fabrics, and wood and metal, paying homage to the Arts Districts' iconic industrial feel.

Popular Bourbon drinks inspire the cocktails from the South, including Mint Juleps and boozy lemonades, and iced teas. Beer offerings include local favorites such as Arts District Brewing Company's Hefeweizen and Angel City's IPA.

"While smoked meats are what come to mind for most, we wanted to ensure our restaurant was inclusive to both vegetarians and pescatarians by offering some lighter options. We also felt compelled to create a beautiful space that was the perfect place to enjoy a casual lunch or evening out."

Suppose you're not too busy looking down at your plate, glance upwards at the stunning sculpture hanging over the dining room. Arts

Celebrate outdoors on the spacious patio for tantalizing trophies of Smokey Sangria (Red or White) with Terrazas altos, fresh berries, and smoked watermelon.

Cocktail bar highlights include the Lass Fashion featuring Bulleit Rye, hella orange bitters, molasses, and a filthy black cherry garnish, and the Mamba, made in homage to the legendary Kobe Bryant; this cocktail's winning mentality is a mix of Woodinville Rye, mint, blackberries and lime.

Congratulations DTLA! Smoke City Char Bar is our winner.

Smoke City Char Bar will be open Sunday-Thursday 11am11pm, Friday-Saturday 11am12am. @smokecitycharbar

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VOL 16 NO 08 - MARCH 31ST - APRIL 6TH, 2022 DTLAWEEKLY.COM 11

B2B MARKETING EXPO RETURNS TO THE LA CONVENTION CENTER

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Join over 5,000 CEOs, CMOs, Marketing Directors, Sales Executives & other key decision-makers over two unmissable days as the world’s leading B2B Marketing Expo returns to the Los Angeles Convention Center April 6th & 7th.

f you’re ready to take your business or career to the next level, attending the B2B Marketing Expo alongside Sales Innovation Expo and Marketing & Advertising Expo is highly suggested.

Fortem International’s B2B Marketing event is open and free to the public and is the largest co-located event showcasing the latest solutions for marketing, sales, advertising, and digital marketing professionals.

Discover the most innovative and effective business solutions all in one place.

The B2B Marketing Expo is the world’s leading event for marketing, sales and digital professionals. It is a two-day event with 200+ speakers and 300+ suppliers focused on the needs of marketing, sales and digital professionals.

Netflix’s Executive Creative Director, Winston T Marshall, reemphasized our show’s importance by stating,

Get the latest knowledge, insights and trends of the digital marketing world presented by the leading experts from Sociallyin, Flying Horse Communications, and Rocket Clicks.

Keynote speakers will be discussing transformative solutions for B2B marketing, digital innovation, sales strategies & leadership. Hear from some of the world’s leading organizations such as: Google, Facebook, TikTok, Netflix, “Marketing is the underappreciated and often duplicated magic that makes the multimedia world move. It’s an honor and a privilege to provide industry insight and entertainment knowledge to a global audience while partnering with Fortem International & The B2B Marketing Expo to showcase a wide range of operational approaches and brand strategies..”

Attendees will access exclusive networking and learning opportunities with fantastic show features.

The Networking Lounge presented by Constant Contact will provide unparalleled networking for thousands of like-minded professionals looking to connect with invaluable new business

contacts, communicate with industry pioneers, and discuss tomorrow’s next innovation.

Microsoft, Oracle, & more.

B2B Marketing Expo is a golden opportunity to build relationships, bring together all Learn more about the ever-changing landscape of social leading experts in the marketmedia advertising and market- ing and sales field, and discover innovative technologies. ing by reserving your seat in one or all three of the network- @B2BEXPOCALI ing event’s educational Masterclasses!

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To Be Or Not To Be? Presented by Kapoors Akbar

LA LIFTS PROOF OF VACCINATION REQUIREMENTS

VOL 16 NO 08 - MARCH 31ST - APRIL 6TH, 2022 DTLAWEEKLY.COM

SoCalGas Shocking Electric Plans to Help Save the Environment SoCalGas took another major step toward its ASPIRE 2045 sustainability goals March 30th, announcing plans to install more than 240 electric vehicle (EV) chargers this year at nine company locations.

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oCalGas also pledged to install EV chargers at 67 company facilities by the end of 2024, for a total of 1,500 new chargers over the next three years.

Currently, a third of SoCalGas’ fleet already operates on clean fuels and the company is on track with replacing 50% of its over-the-road fleet with alternative fuels by 2025 and operating a 100% zeroemissions fleet by 2035.

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ayor Eric Garcetti will soon sign a measure that will stop the city from requiring citizens to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination in order to enter private businesses.

The measure .. passed by the City Neighborhood Council on Wednesday, March 30 will also bring having to show proof of vaccination or recent negative test results to enter outdoor megaevents to a halt.

City officials have used data showing declining case numbers leading to City Council President Nury Martinez to introduced the non proof of vaccination motion while Council Member Mike Bonin held strong to worry.

For those businesses keeping a cautious eye out for the newest Covid case count, the motion comes with an individual business clause.

If a local business sides with Bonin they will still have the option of asking patrons for their vaccine cards. Those businesses siding with Martinez will go back to only having to see ID.

“Today’s announcement is the latest example of SoCalGas making critical investments in the infrastructure that California will need to reach net-zero emissions by midcentury,” said Sandra Hrna, vice president of supply chain and operations support at SoCalGas. “Whether they’re powered by cutting edge batteries or hydrogen fuel cells, electric vehicles will be a big part of helping SoCalGas and California reach our shared climate and air quality goals. And thanks to our use of renewable electricity, the vehicles charged at most of these locations will be powered almost exclusively by solar and wind energy.”

will help reduce our state’s carbon footprint, and SoCalGas’ installation of EV chargers is one of many steps the utility is taking to help California decarbonize faster.”

“All of our customers will benefit from lower greenhouse gas emissions and cleaner air.”

SoCalGas is applying for SCE’s Charge Ready program, which provides assistance with installing electrical infrastructure for EV charging stations, said Lisa Cagnolatti, SCE senior vice president of customer service.

To help reach its goal of replacing 50% of the company’s over-the-road fleet with clean fuel vehicles by 2025, SoCalGas recently purchased 50 Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell vehicles (HFCEV), making SoCalGas among the first utilities in the nation to start transitioning to hydrogen-powered vehicles.

And last year, SoCalGas converted 200 new Ford F-250 service pickup trucks to run on renewable natural gas.

The company plans to purchase Ford F-150 Lightning electric trucks to be serviced by the new chargers. A full charge on one of the trucks provides a driving range of up to 300 miles. Since “It’s no secret the fleet charging typically occurs transportation sector is overnight, employees can the largest contributor of charge their personal vehicles greenhouse gases in California,” during the day to support a said Assemblymember Miguel clean commute. @SoCalGas Santiago. “Electric vehicles

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