Beverly Hills Adjusts Mask Rules

BEVERLYPRESS.COM INSIDE

• Schools consider graduations pg. 3 Sunny, with • Police warn of highs in the package thefts 90s pg. 4

Volume 30 No. 17 Serving the Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Hancock Park and Wilshire Communities April 23, 2020 Beverly Hills adjusts mask rules Project’s plan towers n City Council also looks at looming fiscal over Hollywood n issues Project height dwarfs Capitol Records Building BY CAMERON KISZLA BY EDWIN FOLVEN other 35 stories – along with two 11-story mid-rise buildings. It will On April 21, the Beverly Hills The Los Angeles Department of house 1,005 residential units, of City Council focused on the city’s City Planning opened the public which 872 will be market-rate response to the coronavirus pan- review period on April 16 for the units, and 133 will be for very low- demic by adjusting some of the Hollywood Center Project, a and extremely low-income seniors. rules put in place by emergency mixed-use development proposed MP Los Angeles plans to have the ordinances. for the area around the Capitol senior housing managed by the The most discussed issue was in Records Building by the same nonprofit Menorah Housing Foundation. regards to the city’s requirement photo courtesy of the city of Beverly Hills developer who previously proposed the Millennium Hollywood project. According to a project descrip- that people wear face coverings in Beverly Hills Park Rangers have been educating the public on the Developer MP Los Angeles has tion on the Los Angeles City public, an order that went into city’s face-covering requirement. effect on April 10. The council announced that the Hollywood Planning Department’s website, an debated how best to craft the ordi- Vice Mayor Robert Wunderlich a reasonable likelihood they will Center Project will be a 4.5-acre, option exists for the developer to nance to create safer behavior said. come into close proximity. mixed-use community built on sites alter plans for the site and include a from those in Beverly Hills while City staff proposed several “Everyone will have a mask currently occupied by parking lots 220-room hotel, which would result exempting certain people and situ- exemptions to the mask rules, around their neck as they’re walk- on both sides of Vine Street just in a lower number of market rate ations. including for children under the ing around, and if they see some- north of Hollywood Boulevard. apartments – 768 units. That option Council members said, in some age of 2, those with breathing one, they’ll put it up,” The Capitol Records Building will also includes an additional 116 cases, the ordinance may have problems and those who are trav- Councilwoman Lili Bosse said. be preserved. affordable units for seniors. gone too far. For instance, eling in their car by themselves or The council also chose to keep The project will include two Councilman John Mirisch and only with members of their house- in place some exemptions, such as buildings – one 46 stories and the See Nonprofit page 19 City Manager George Chavez hold, among others. for children under 2 years old, wore masks on the videoconfer- “At some point in time, the people undergoing medical and ence because they were at City exemptions swallow up the rule dental procedures, and those Hall, and even though they were … We’ve created a situation asked to remove the face covering alone in separate rooms, the ordi- where if anyone says ‘I can’t by law enforcement, but declined nance required them to wear breathe with a mask on,’ they’re to include the breathing problems masks. exempt,” Mayor Lester Friedman exemption, as well as others that “To me, the concept we’re try- said. were made unnecessary by the ing to achieve is to reduce trans- The council unanimously decid- change to the ordinance. mission. If you’re sitting in an ed to require masks in public only The council also discussed how office by yourself, you’re not when people encounter others out- going to transmit to anyone else,” side of their household and there’s See Residential page 18 Horvath chosen as new WeHo mayor n Meister defers mayor pro tempore position to photo by Edwin Folven Heilman The Hollywood Center Project is proposed on parking lots surrounding the Capitol Records Building, which will be preserved. BY JOSE HERRERA

The West Hollywood City Council selected Mayor Pro From the publishers Tempore Lindsey Horvath to be the city’s next mayor during a City To our readers, Any donation amount to help Council meeting on April 20. offset our expenses, which “I’m honored to have been elect- During the coronavirus health include staff salaries, printing, ed unanimously by my peers to emergency, we at the Park Labrea distribution costs, rent and utili- serve as mayor,” Horvath said on News and Beverly Press are com- ties, would be greatly appreciat- Twitter. “I will have big shoes to mitted to continuing to print your ed. fill, and we have a tough road ahead local news every week at a time Once again, we thank YOU – with [COVID-19] emergency and when newspapers are experienc- our readers, for your support. We recovery, but I know – together – ing existential threats. We plan to promise to continue publishing we can do anything.” maintain our full staff without YOUR local newspaper every Council members also nominated photo courtesy of the city of West Hollywood furloughs or layoffs. Since 1946, week no matter what. Councilwoman Lauren Meister as West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tempore Lindsey Horvath will take over as the Park Labrea News and Donations can be sent through the next Mayor Pro Tempore, how- mayor next month. Beverly Press has covered our Venmo at Beverly Press, or can ever Meister asked Councilman communities with the highest be mailed to: Park Labrea John Heilman to step in because she own, over the next few months and Heilman agreed to serve as journalistic integrity. We have no News/Beverly Press, P.O. Box would like to focus her efforts on I would rather not have the cere- mayor pro tempore. plans to stop now. 36036, Los Angeles, CA 90036. helping rebuild the business com- monial activities that go along Horvath and Heilman will be To do this, however, we need munity, which is suffering due to the with being mayor pro tempore,” installed in their new positions on your help. Advertising revenues With gratitude, COVID-19 pandemic. Meister said. “I want to shift my May 18, which will allow city staff have dropped precipitously 50- “I’m going to be dealing with focus on rebuilding the business to prepare and facilitate the transi- 75%. With that reality, we humbly Michael and Karen Villalpando small businesses, including my community.” tion. ask for your financial support. Publishers 2 April 23, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Beverly Hills council votes down street changes COVID-19 infections may be n Idea to open lanes for pedestrians and higher than earlier estimates cyclists fails USC and the Los Angeles extent of COVID-19 infections in County Department of Public our community because we have By Cameron Kiszla Health released preliminary only tested people with symp- results on April 20 from a collab- toms, and the availability of tests A proposal to close some street orative scientific study that sug- has been limited,” said lead lanes to car traffic to create more gests COVID-19 infections are investigator Neeraj Sood, a pro- room for pedestrians and bicyclists far more widespread – and the fessor of public policy at USC failed to garner enough support by fatality rate much lower – than Price School for Public Policy the Beverly Hills City Council on previously thought in Los and senior fellow at USC April 21 to be implemented. Angeles County. Schaeffer Center for Health The proposal by Vice Mayor The results are from the first Policy and Economics. “The esti- Robert Wunderlich proposed that round of an ongoing study by mates also suggest that we might altering some streets – such as USC researchers and county pub- have to recalibrate disease predic- South Santa Monica, Robertson, lic health officials. They will be tion models and rethink public Olympic and Wilshire boulevards, conducting antibody testing over health strategies.” among others – would provide two time on representative samples of The results have important benefits for the community, he adults countywide to determine implications for public health argued. Not only would walkers the scope and spread of the pan- efforts to control the epidemic, and cyclists have more room to demic across the county. public health authorities said. practice social distancing while Based on results of the first “These results indicate that exercising, he said, but drivers round of testing, the research many persons may have been would be more likely to slow team estimates that approximate- unknowingly infected and at risk down, which might help reduce the photo by Cameron Kiszla A proposal by Vice Mayor Robert Wunderlich to close some lanes on ly 4.1% of the county’s adult pop- of transmitting the virus to oth- rampant speeding reported in ulation has antibodies to the virus. ers,” said Dr. Barbara Ferrer, streets such as Wilshire Boulevard failed to garner enough support Beverly Hills and elsewhere. Adjusting this estimate for statis- director of the L.A. County The Beverly Hills city staff among his fellow City Council members. tical margin of error implies 2.8% Department of Public Health. report said Los Angeles to 5.6% of the county’s adult pop- “These findings underscore the Department of Transportation “If we can do something in a erated construction on Metro’s ulation has antibodies to the virus, importance of expanded poly- General Manager Seleta Reynolds which translates to approximately merase chain reaction testing to reported that L.A. drivers are aver- way that’s going to be cost-effec- Purple Line Extension, the pan- tive, that’s fine,” Mirisch said. demic-induced slowdown allows 221,000 to 442,000 adults who diagnose those with infection so aging 12% faster speeds, with have had the infection. That esti- they can be isolated and quaran- some as much as 25% faster, and Wunderlich pushed back against for some things that would other- the criticisms, pointing out that wise be made impossible by every- mate is 28 to 55 times higher than tined, while also maintaining the the California Highway Patrol has the 7,994 confirmed cases of broad social distancing interven- also reported a rise in speeders. other cities around the country day life. quickly and relatively easily imple- “In my mind, this was to take COVID-19 reported to the county tions.” Councilman Julian Gold, by the time of the study in early The antibody test is helpful for Councilwoman Lili Bosse and mented lane shutdowns to accom- advantage of a one-time event. modate bikes and walkers. The This was not a pilot project, not April. The number of COVID-19 identifying past infection, but a Mayor Lester Friedman made clear deaths countywide was 729 as of PCR test is required to diagnose their opposition to the lane clo- staff report highlighted similar something that would morph into efforts in Oakland, Denver, the Complete Streets Plan,” April 22. current infection. For informa- sures. “We haven’t known the true tion, visit lacounty.gov. Gold argued that by the time the Minneapolis and Boston. Wunderlich said. closures were put in place, enough However, the report also noted that progress might be made in combat- pedestrian- and cyclist-friendly ing the coronavirus pandemic so Portland declined to close lanes that the increased car traffic would except in parks, and New York again need the lanes. City abandoned the lane closures “By the time we figure out because of the cost of staffing where, figure out how, get it intersections with police officers accomplished, I would hope we’re for safety. in a place to begin removing these Wunderlich also reiterated his restrictions,” Gold said. view that this move would be tem- Bosse agreed with Gold on the porary and was only proposed timing issue and argued that, by because, like the city’s recent clo- closing portions of those streets to sure of a few blocks of Wilshire car traffic, the city might be implic- Boulevard to accommodate accel- itly encouraging residents and visitors to gather, which could help the disease spread. “I think now is the safest time to ride your bike or walk around our city, but I don’t want to encourage Founded 1946 hundreds of people walking in one area or hundreds of people cycling 5150 WILSHIRE BLVD. in one area,” Bosse said. SUITE 330 P.O. BOX 36036 Bosse added that the city has LOS ANGELES, CA 90036 other effective methods to dissuade (323)933-5518 speeders. BEVERLY HILLS OFFICE: “If there are areas of our city 8440 WILSHIRE BLVD. SUITE 2B where we’re noticing more speed, BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90211 that’s where we need more WWW.BEVERLYPRESS.COM enforcement,” she said. Friedman echoed Bosse’s concerns that the move might work Michael Villalpando PUBLISHER against the city’s efforts to promote social distancing. He also reiterat- Karen Villalpando ed a point made by Councilman EDITOR & PUBLISHER John Mirisch that the temporary lane closures might work against Edwin Folven the city’s efforts to promote its [email protected] EDITOR Complete Streets Plan. Complete Streets, which aims to improve Cameron Kiszla access for multiple forms of trans- [email protected] portation, has drawn criticism REPORTER regarding a perceived bias against cars and in favor of bicycles. Jose Herrera “If we’re not successful in [email protected] rolling this out properly, I think REPORTER

we’re going to take a big step back- Jill Weinlein, Tim Posada, ward in our ultimate goal, to Rebecca Villalpando, Emily Jilg encourage multi-modal transporta- CONTRIBUTING WRITERS tion,” Friedman said.

Mirisch said he could be in sup- The Park Labrea News and Beverly Press are port of the lane closures, though he weekly newspapers, published on Thursdays. Mail subscription is $120 annually. Decreed newspa- was concerned about “the worst pers of general circulation, entitled to publish legal outcome: poor implementation and advertising, Feb. 10, 1960 by Superior Court a public backlash.” Order No 736637. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 3 April 23, 2020 Students, parents, administrators talk how best to cap off the school year n School officials say Superintendent Michael Bregy this time for both eighth grade and said. our seniors.” graduation plans remain Plans are still tentative, and if “We are working with the board tentative graduation is held on time, the of education, school principals and board members said the videos parents to give our students a very BY CAMERON KISZLA could be released later in the sum- special end to their school year,” mer. If graduation is delayed or can- she said. In light of the coronavirus pan- celed, the videos might be released The Los Angeles Unified School demic, graduations, end-of-year on June 4 to tide over the seniors District is planning “a virtual grad- parties and grad night at Disneyland and eighth graders until the cere- uation, at least for now,” have been canceled, leaving many monies. Superintendent Austin Beutner said parents and students disappointed. “I think having a video as a back- in a speech on April 13. Beverly Hills Unified School up is a great thing to do. The board “Frances Suavillo, the student District conducted a survey asking has not and will not cancel gradua- representative on Los Angeles students if they prefer to have a tion unless the state dictates it,” Unified board, has been leading a delayed graduation, if the scheduled board member Noah Margo said. group of students at my request to June 4 event can not occur. Margo added that while the board come up with recommendations on Most BHHS seniors want the cer- won’t cancel the ceremony until it how we appropriately celebrate photo courtesy of Ilysia Pierce emony to take place by the end of has to, he is pessimistic about the what, for the class of 2020, has been Mother and daughter Ilysia and Madison Pierce want this year’s seniors July, if possible, though a slight prospects for graduation and com- a lifetime of hard work,” Beutner majority of those who answered the mencement. He thinks the district said. “We also want to recognize to have some form of graduation ceremony to recognize the students’ survey said they’d return next sum- will know for sure if graduation will athletes, scholars, artists and others hard work and accomplishments. mer for a makeup ceremony if that have to be postponed or canceled who have accomplished many great was the only option. A survey of prior to June 4. things. And we’ll need to celebrate another, and family and friends that requires social distancing, Beverly Vista Middle School stu- “There’s a very good chance that the culminations and great work of could watch a livestream at home. would “mean the world” to her and dents produced similar results there will not be any graduation. others in all grades.” “I’d rather have my daughter her classmates. regarding the eighth-grade com- This [video] has to be a graduation Some students and parents, how- graduate and walk in cap and gown “Nothing will ever compare to mencement ceremony. backup … I don’t think we’re going ever, are still pushing for some form and receive her diploma for this the [ceremony] we all have On April 20, the BHUSD Board to have a gathering at all. I don’t of in-person ceremony. Ilysia commencement … I’d rather see dreamed about since kindergarten, of Education voted unanimously to think that’s going to happen. I think Pierce, a Los Angeles resident who that from my dining room than not but hearing our names be called out, authorize the creation of videos it would be a miracle if that happens is cantor at the Beverly Hills have a graduation at all,” Pierce whether it’s sitting on the field 6 honoring the BHHS seniors and the at this point, and we’re very short Temple of the Arts, said the football said. feet apart with masks on, or watch- BVMS eighth graders. on those,” Margo said. field at Palisades Charter High Madison Pierce, who plans to ing from my TV at home, will give “Since we weren’t really sure Parents and students have also School in Pacific Palisades offers attend Cal Poly San Luis Obispo closure and a memory to us,” she what was going to happen with the been submitting alternate ideas for plenty of room for a socially dis- this fall to major in industrial engi- said. ceremony, whether it was canceled, graduation, such as a parade of cars tanced ceremony for her daughter, neering, said in an email that she Madison Pierce said that, if the whether it was going to be post- or drive-by ceremony, to the school Madison, and her classmates. believes her mother’s plan for a ceremony were postponed, she poned, we wanted to have some- district. Pierce added that the students, socially distanced graduation is would come back to participate. thing special for this group, the Rebecca Starkins, director of necessary speakers and administra- “the class of 2020’s best chance” to “Nothing will ever compare to seniors and eighth graders, they’ve public relations for BHUSD, said in tors could all wear masks along have a graduation ceremony. She what could have been, but some missed out on such a big portion of an email that the district “is com- with their caps and gowns. They added that a ceremony, whether it’s form of graduation is better than the celebration,” BHUSD mitted to a physical graduation at would remain 6 feet apart from one virtually held or an in-person event nothing,” she said. 4 April 23, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Fire damages apartment Package thefts from porches prompt warnings n Thief targeted building under renovation Melrose area on April 11

By edwin folven Detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department’s Wilshire Division are searching for a package thief who targeted residences in the Melrose area on April 11. Authorities said the thefts illustrate the need for residents to take pre- ventative measures, particularly during the COVID-19 health emergency.

The male suspect was captured photo courtesy of the LAPD on security camera video stealing a A homeowner’s security camera captured video of the suspect taking a package that had been delivered minutes earlier, said Detective package. Police encouraged people to take extra precautions against Edward Griffin, with the Wilshire parcel thefts. Division. Investigators believe he was following the delivery van and 5 feet 10 inches tall and 200 to 220 ously easier for thieves to steal, likely committed another theft pounds. He was driving a late- Griffin said. In one of the cases in reported around the same time at a 1990s Mercury Mountaineer. the Melrose area, the package was different residence near the site of Griffin said the suspect may have placed just inside the front gate. the first theft. The exact locations folded or obscured the license The detective suggested using a photo by Edwin Folven where the thefts occurred were not plates to hide his identity. box or other receptacle that prefer- A fire erupted on April 17 in a vacant apartment building under provided. Griffin said the video Through their investigation, ably locks after a delivery is made. restoration in the 1500 block of North Gordon Street in Hollywood. footage of the suspect was particu- detectives learned that many deliv- He said some companies offer spe- Firefighters arrived at 11:15 p.m. to find smoke coming from the first larly helpful, as one resident had ery companies have instructed dri- cial arrangements for deliveries. floor of the two-story building. Flames had moved up a wall to the placed a camera in a tree in front of vers not to touch door knobs, gate “We are trying to stay ahead of second floor. Firefighters extinguished the blaze and ensured it did his house that enabled authorities to latches and other surfaces frequent- an emerging trend,” Griffin said. not reach the attic. No injuries were reported, and the cause remains see his vehicle. ly touched by others due to the Anyone with information about under investigation, said Los Angeles Fire Department spokesman The suspect was described as COVID-19 emergency. Packages the thefts is urged to call investiga- Nicholas Prange. white or Latino, 30 to 40 years old, placed close to sidewalks are obvi- tors at (213)922-8251. Beverly Hills honors dispatchers D.A.’s office issues precautions about census scams The Los Angeles County District United States Census Bureau repre- Census Bureau does not send Attorney’s Office is cautioning sentatives and ask for Social emails. Do not reply or click on any for help during emergencies people about scams involving the Security numbers and financial links or open attachments of emails 2020 Census and perpetrators who information. are received. If someone visits your The Beverly Hills police and ication of dispatchers to support may use the census in attempts to The U.S. Census Bureau will home, verify their identity. If crim- fire departments recently recog- the safety and security of the steal personal information. never ask for donations or Social inal activity is suspected, call 911. nized communications dispatch- Beverly Hills community is Census scams involve perpetra- Security numbers, bank account or For information, visit da.lacoun- ers as part of National Public unparalleled. tors who send emails claiming to be credit card information. The U.S. ty.gov. Safety Telecommunicators “Our dispatchers are the criti- Week, observed annually during cal lifeline between reported the second week of April. emergencies and life-saving The Beverly Hills Police resources. Without them, we Department has an onsite would not receive essential infor- Communications Dispatch mation on how to respond to calls Center, where dispatchers field for service. They are the voice of over 130,000 non-emergency calm, in chaos,” Spagnoli said. calls and 38,000 911 calls each “We want to say thank you for year. In Beverly Hills, 911 calls all of your hard work and service are routinely answered in under to the community,” added BHFD 15 seconds. The dispatchers play Chief Greg Barton, addressing a critical role in public safety and the dispatchers. “You’re not the aid police officers in maintaining ones the public sees responding a less than three-minute response with lights and sirens, but you are time to emergency calls. truly the first of the first respon- The police and fire depart- ders who protect and serve this ments, and the community, are fine community. We are grateful especially thankful for the hard for your professionalism and work of dispatchers during the dedicated efforts to serving COVID-19 crisis, said BHPD Beverly Hills and keeping our Chief Sandra Spagnoli. The ded- personnel safe.” Resources available for abuse victims

Los Angeles County authorities also still responding to domestic acknowledge that staying home violence calls and emergency pro- during the COVID-19 crisis is not a tective orders are being issued. safe option for victims experiencing Legal services are available through domestic violence. According to the the county by visiting dpss.lacoun- Los Angeles County Sheriff’s ty.gov. Department, domestic violence The Violence Against Women calls have risen countywide year-to- Act allows some non-citizens who date from 2019 to 2020, from 863 to are in abusive relationships to peti- 933 – an 8.11% increase. tion for lawful permanent residency County officials want the public without the assistance of an abusive to know that 24-hour services and spouse or parent. For information, resources are available for people visit dpss.lacounty.gov. experiencing domestic violence and The county is also offering other forms of abuse. Shelters are resources to combat child abuse open and are accepting victims. For through the Los Angeles County information, call the county’s Office of Child Protection and Domestic Violence Hotline at Department of Children and Family (800)978-3600, or visit Services. To report child abuse, call 211la.org/domestic-violence. (800)540-4000, or visit dcfs.lacoun- Law enforcement agencies are ty.gov. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 5 April 23, 2020 O’Farrell remains focused on local relief in Hollywood during coronavirus pandemic n City Councilman talks Understandably, people are dis- Alvarado St., near Beverly tressed, they’re worried, scared and Boulevard, as a site where curbside COVID-19 challenges everyone has a right to be, but if we testing may occur, and added there and opportunities enacted a law that only the feds can, are considerations for possible it wouldn’t be enforceable and it future testing at the Saban BY EDWIN FOLVEN would put us in a very risky legal Community Clinics sites. position, to say the least. So, we are “We want to remove all obstacles Since the COVID-19 public all pulling together for the feds to that will prevent people from get- health emergency began and a lean in, and when the Assembly and ting the medical care they need in “Safer at Home” order was issued in Senate in the state meet in early the immediate [term], and we also March, Los Angeles City May, we will be working with them want to remove all obstacles that Councilman Mitch O’Farrell said in close collaboration to see what will add time and costs to business- he has been hard at work serving kind of relief the state can give.” es. That’s the focus. We want to residents of the 13th District. He has Another area of concern is make sure the city isn’t unwittingly supported relief for tenants and or unknowingly putting up obsta- property owners including a mora- cles to testing,” he said. photo by Edwin Folven torium on evictions and freezes on “We want to O’Farrell is exploring plans to Lane closures have been approved that will allow expedited construction rent increases. He has also helped to remove all make more hotel rooms available to on the Target store in Hollywood. complete the groundwork for an medical first responders and others expansion of coronavirus testing obstacles that on the frontlines addressing the for a lane closure along Sunset outreach element that will help peo- and ensure efforts are made to help will prevent pandemic. He said many doctors Boulevard and Western Avenue so ple obtain resources. members of the homeless popula- and medical staff members want to crews can expedite completion of The city has also opened tempo- tion. The COVID-19 pandemic has people from self-isolate away from their families the Target store in Hollywood. It is rary shelters for homeless individu- many facets, and O’Farrell said he getting the to prevent the potential spread of unclear how it will affect the open- als at the Hollywood and Pan is focused on a multitude of the virus, and hotels offer that ing, which the company has stated Pacific Park recreation centers, and approaches in the city’s unprece- medical care opportunity. will be later in 2020, without pro- another is scheduled to open at a dented response. they need in the O’Farrell said it is a win-win sit- viding a date. Work is well under- recreation center on Shatto Place in With many people out of work uation, and many hotel rooms are way at the store, which remained Koreatown, O’Farrell said. The because of the COVID-19 emer- immediate vacant because of the pandemic. partially finished for more than five number of beds has been increased gency and struggling to pay rent, [term], and we “We want to make them available years during legal challenges to the at shelters in the Hollywood area, O’Farrell is calling for the federal for police, fire, emergency person- project until construction resumed including additions at the government to provide aid such as also want to nel, medical personnel, and that has in 2019. O’Farrell added that he is Hollywood YWCA, now serving rent forgiveness. That aid must be remove all an economic benefit as well, as looking for other locations where a 124 people. The winter shelter at also made for mortgage holders and obstacles that hotel occupancy is down 95%,” similar arrangement for street clo- the Salvation Army complex on property owners, many of whom O’Farrell said. “A lot of hotels and sures during the emergency order Hollywood Boulevard will also also suffer when rent cannot be will add time and motels aren’t necessarily the big may be beneficial. remain open until the end of June, paid. He was joined by Council costs to corporate chains, some of them are “We are taking every opportunity bringing the total number of beds President Nury Martinez, 6th independently owned, so we want for what would normally cause currently available in Hollywood to District, and Councilwoman businesses. to see if there is a good match there very negative traffic impacts to approximately 200. Those are in Monica Rodriguez, 7th District, in That’s the focus.” to keep a business healthier while move full force ahead in this time of addition to a bridge housing shelter authoring a resolution of support for allowing first responders and peo- light traffic,” O’Farrell said. on Schrader Boulevard, which cur- more assistance in upcoming feder- ple on the front lines to self-isolate The homeless population is also rently houses 73 people. al relief packages. -Los Angeles City Councilman safely.” of particular concern, and O’Farrell “By the end of June, we are going “After the Great Recession, the Mitch O’Farrell The “Safer at Home” order has said he is working to ensure steps to have a better sense of where we feds bailed out the banks and the resulted in reduced traffic levels, are being taken to offer testing and are with the curve, with the auto industry. This time around, COVID-19 testing, and O’Farrell which has allowed for expedited shelter for people living on the COVID-19 curve, and what that renters and mortgage holders need a said he is eager for the city to construction on some projects. In streets. He supports Mayor Eric means,” O’Farrell said. “So, we are bailout because they are hurting, increase locations. He authored a Beverly Hills, the city took advan- Garcetti’s deployment of rapid- full steam ahead in finding tempo- and only the feds can do that,” motion that would allow the city to tage of less traffic and closed a response testing teams to homeless rary solutions, and we are looking O’Farrell said. “We get demands for temporarily close streets to accom- stretch of Wilshire Boulevard so encampments and said such testing at more [ways] that I can’t actively us to do that at the local level; we do modate testing sites. He cited work on the Purple Line Extension was planned at an encampment on disclose. We are actively working not have the jurisdiction to do that. Clinica Romero near at 123 S. subway project could be expedited. Gower Street under the Hollywood on something very important that O’Farrell said the city of Los (101) Freeway. He added that those will house dozens, if not hundreds, Beverly Hills Chamber joins Angeles is doing the same, allowing efforts must continue to have an more people.” small business coalition Many businesses have been Business and Employee justifiably concerned about how Continuity and Recovery Fund, to keep their businesses afloat modeled after the 9/11 Victim Bogie’s Liquor during this time of COVID-19. Compensation Fund, that would The Beverly Hills Chamber of create the framework to assist all Commerce refuses to let busi- impacted businesses regardless nesses fall to the wayside. To find of size, industry or location. a solution to get businesses the Private-sector businesses cash they need now, the chamber would help create a streamlined WE ARE OPEN! has joined a group of over 100 process by reviewing and pro- chambers of commerce and busi- cessing the applications from ness associations across the businesses seeking assistance. We are taking precautions and practicing nation, the Save Small Business The hope is to use easy-to-file Coalition, to empower a path for electronic forms and provide social distancing in our store. business continuity. quick turnarounds of 15 to 30 Other members include the days for applicants. This federal Hollywood, Culver City, Los solution will likely require sup- We’re open from 10am - 2am Angeles Gay & Lesbian, Greater port not only of businesses across San Fernando Valley, and Los multiple industries, but it will 7 days a week! Angeles Area chambers of com- require that local and state elect- merce. ed officials join SSBC in point- Since its origin in March, the ing toward and demanding one SSBC has been working to find a holistic federal solution. solution that will assist small The faster all of these organi- Wine • Spirits • Champagne • Beer • Kegs businesses quickly and effective- zations and government leaders ly with business continuity. It has can collaborate and work togeth- worked with partner associations er to find a federally funded solu- in the insurance and commercial tion for small business continuity 5753 Melrose Ave. Corner of Melrose & Vine development industries, and has that can be dispersed immediate- now aligned efforts with the Joint ly to small businesses, the quick- (323) 469-1414 Trades Coalition, led by the er the vital heartbeat of the International Council of American economy can be www.bogiesliquor.com Shopping Centers. saved. The SSBC proposes the estab- For information, visit beverly- lishment of a COVID-19 hillschamber.com. Don’t Drink & Drive! 6 April 23, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Congressman names 2020 Women of the Year On April 17, U.S. Rep. Adam (Glendale), Shannon Geaney volunteers with the nonprofit orga- Schiff (D-Burbank) honored 15 (Hollywood), Tami Kagan-Abrams nization Arts Bridging the Gap, inspiring women from communities (Hollywood Hills), Barbara Weber which creates murals through cur- in the 28th Congressional District – (La Canada Flintridge), Mary riculum that offers arts enrichment Atwater Village, Burbank, Echo O’Keefe (La Crescenta), Alexis for youth in under-served areas. Park, Elysian Valley, Glendale, Sanchez (Los Feliz), Victoria Kagan-Abrams, of the Hollywood, Hollywood Hills, La Malone (Montrose), Claire Bogaard Hollywood Hills, spent 10 years Canada Flintridge, La Crescenta, (Pasadena), Coralyn AndresTaylor working in program management at Los Feliz, Montrose, Pasadena, (Silver Lake), Dr. Ani Halabi Yahoo, where she served on the Silver Lake, Tujunga and West (Tujunga) and Esther Baum (West board of directors for the Yahoo Hollywood. Hollywood). Employee Foundation. She also “Every year in March, in honor of Geaney, of Hollywood, served as spent six years with the Walt Disney Women’s History Month, my office an officer in the United States Company, where she participated hosts an event to honor our district’s Marine Corps and has over two with the Disney VoluntEARS pro- Women of the Year,” Schiff said. decades of service with the Los gram. A decade ago, Kagan-Abrams “Unfortunately, we had to postpone Angeles Police Department, where began volunteering with the Jewish our celebration due to coronavirus, she serves as a detective. Geaney Family Service of Los Angeles but I wanted to make sure these out- has worked on numerous issues with Young Leader Group, and currently standing women get the recognition the LAPD. She tackled the issue of serves on the JFS board of directors. they deserve. They are all pillars of homelessness by volunteering to At 94 years old, Baum, of West our communities, and I thank them begin a unit to strategically and suc- Hollywood, is a dynamic force in for their invaluable service.” cessfully address the issue; the unit the community. She is currently This year’s honorees are is now known as Hollywood’s serving on the city of West photo courtesy of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Flordelina “Lenni” Lara (Atwater Coordinated Outreach Resource and Hollywood Senior Advisory Board Health care workers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center received meals Village), Brenda Burroughs Enforcement Unit. In 2019, Geaney and is active in the West Hollywood through a donation from Los Angeles Rams player Sebastian (Burbank), Meymuna Hussein- was promoted to Detective III at the Seniors in Action program, where Joseph-Day. Cattan (Echo Park), Janet Workman Hollywood Division and placed in she plans programs for senior citi- (Elysian Valley), Susana Reyes charge of the CORE Unit. Geaney zens to come together, make friends and share memories. Baum is also a longtime and valued member of Football star pitches in to help Congregation Kol Ami. Cedars-Sinai health care staff Notable quotes Los Angeles Rams defensive home after their shifts on April 16. “Someone out there in this audience may even be someone who will lineman Sebastian Joseph-Day “As we continue to confront one day follow in my footsteps, and preside over the White House as recently donated $10,000 to this pandemic, we know that we the President’s spouse. I wish him well.” Rossoblu’s Restaurant Relief to are not alone because our com- fund 250 prepared meals for munity and the Los Angeles Barbara Pierce Bush Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Rams are standing with us,” said 1925-2018 frontline medical personnel and Arthur Ochoa, chief advancement their families. officer for Cedars-Sinai Medical “There’s so many health care Center. “Together, we will man- workers and medical specialists age this challenge and become Remarks at Wellesley College commencement, June 1, 1990 that are putting their lives on the stronger than ever before.” line to help contain this pandem- The meal kits were prepared Barbara Bush – the only woman besides Abigail Adams to be both ic,” Joseph-Day said. “I wanted by Rossoblu Chef Steve Samson a wife and a mother to a President of the United States. to try and provide at least some and delivered to Cedars-Sinai relief to those that are risking Medical Center. their lives to help fight the coron- “Thanks to Sebastian Joseph- avirus.” Day’s remarkable generosity, we (source: Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations) Cedars-Sinai doctors, nurses were able to provide a comfort- and health care workers received ing meal to the front-line workers meal kits with braised short ribs, at Cedars-Sinai, who are working vegetables, soup, salad and so hard to protect and care for our chocolate chip cookies to take city,” Samson added. Controller expects less city revenue this fiscal year Los Angeles County expects On April 15, Los Angeles City sible and secure.” Controller Ron Galperin released a Galperin’s Revised Revenue Revised Revenue Forecast for the Forecast features updated estimates less revenue from sales tax city of Los Angeles, predicting a to help promote sober and responsi- Los Angeles County’s economic purchasing, and has directed county $231 million decline in revenue ble city budget deliberations, which outlook has taken a hard hit from department heads to prepare for a from his previous estimate this fis- began after Mayor Eric Garcetti the COVID-19 crisis, with officials range of potential program reduc- cal year, and as much as a $598 mil- released his budget proposal on forecasting a $1 billion decline in tions in the coming fiscal year. lion decline from his previous esti- April 20. sales tax revenue this fiscal year “These are significant losses mate next fiscal year. The Revised Revenue Forecast ending on June 30, 2020. which, unfortunately, will have a These projections, available predicts an overall decline in city Looking ahead, the sales tax major effect on programs that the online at lacontroller.org/revise- revenue – down $231 million this decline is expected to surpass $2 county administers on behalf of our drevenue, are revisions of the esti- fiscal year (ending June 30) and billion between now and the end of 10 million residents,” Hamai said. mates Galperin released at the between $194 million and $598 the next fiscal year on June 30, “Our aim is to work with our beginning of March in his annual million next fiscal year. 2021. departments and the Board of Revenue Forecast Report and were In just one month, there has been At the same time, Los Angeles Supervisors to prioritize needs and necessitated by the coronavirus’s a significant decline in projected County is incurring heavy expenses ensure that Los Angeles County colossal impact on the local and general fund revenue. This fiscal in responding to the crisis and will continues its vital role as the safety global economy. year’s revenue estimate is now be working closely with the state net for our most vulnerable resi- “The city is facing an unprece- $6.38 billion, a $231 million – 3.5% and federal government in the dents.” dented crisis due to the coronavirus – decrease from the previous March months ahead on issues of potential The recommended budget for fis- pandemic, and our revenue outlook 1 estimate of $6.61 billion. Even reimbursement. cal 2020-21 – prepared in large part is much darker than it was even a with this revision, Los Angeles is “The budget outlook is critically before the COVID-19 crisis was month ago,” Galperin said. “While not facing a cash flow crisis as important for Los Angeles County declared a global pandemic – will these struggles are not unique to Galperin is still projecting 2.3% to allocate resources effectively and be presented to the Board of Los Angeles, our city is in a better growth over last year’s general fund to plan for the essential programs Supervisors on April 28. position than most municipalities receipts, and Los Angeles will like- and services residents rely on in all Extensive adjustments are because of the diversity of our rev- ly receive state and federal funds of our communities,” said expected in future budget phases to enue streams and healthy reserve due to the coronavirus pandemic. Supervisor Kathryn Barger, 5th address revenue shortfalls and ris- fund balance.” For fiscal year 2021, the revenue District, chair of the Board of ing expenditures due to the crisis. “But reductions like we’re seeing decline from the previous estimate Supervisors. “As we continue to In a media conference call hosted will undoubtedly strain our ability is a range between $194 million and KRAMER + DRESBEN collaboratively address the COVID- by the National Association of to provide high-quality services and $598 million, depending on the 19 public health crisis, we remain Counties on Wednesday, Los require some very difficult budget- length of the current shutdown and Stephen W. Kramer committed to meeting the needs of Angeles County leaders called on ing decisions this year and in the how long it takes for the economy residents across L.A. County.” Congress to provide additional future,” Galperin added. to recover from this crisis. 5858 Wilshire Blvd., In anticipation of the economic assistance, including enabling local “Protecting the welfare of For information, visit lacon- Suite 205 challenges ahead, Chief Executive municipalities to use federal relief Angelenos always has to be our pri- troller.org/financial-reports/ Los Angeles, CA 90036 Officer Sachi A. Hamai has funding to address lost revenues mary concern, but it’s also essential revised-revenue-forecast-2020- imposed hard freezes on hiring and suffered due to COVID-19. to ensure the city is fiscally respon- 2021. (323)964-7100 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 7 April 23, 2020 West Hollywood City Council hosts Schiff n Congressman offers would allow businesses and cities to advocate until the federal govern- to keep their employees by provid- ment takes action. update on federal ing funds to maintain payroll. Additionally, Schiff said coronavirus response “Even if they are working from Congress hopes to provide $25 bil- home, even if they are furloughed, lion in funding for hospitals and BY JOSE HERRERA or not able to work from home, they health clinics because there is a are still employed and still getting a great need to support them. The West Hollywood City paycheck,” Schiff said. “They can There’s a lack of funding for Council met for its biweekly meet- use the check to pay rent and they health clinics such as the LGBT ing on April 20, and joining City won’t have to look for a job when Center or Planned Parenthood that Council members virtually was we are on the other side of the serve communities like West U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff (D- curve.” Hollywood, Schiff said. He hopes Burbank), who provided an update Councilman John Duran thanked to change that in future legislation. on the federal response to the Schiff for advocating for workers, Duran said the LGBT community COVID-19 pandemic. renters and smaller cities. has expertise in the area of testing Schiff, who represents The city has a population in and would be an asset during the phtoo by Jose Herrera California’s 28th District which which 78% are renters, and West Hollywood officials don’t see the city fully reopening in the near includes West Hollywood, provided although the city of West See Small page 19 future. an update on action Congress will Hollywood passed a moratorium to likely take this week including help residential and commercial additional funding for hospitals, renters and tenants, people who COVID-19 testing, and support for aren’t working can’t suddenly come small businesses and renters. up with $8,000 or $10,000 when the Schiff said Congress is working moratorium is raised, Duran said. on a follow-up to the CARES “We have money in reserve, and (Coronavirus Aid, Relief and we will be dipping into it, but we Economic Security) Act passed by can’t sustain that without help from Congress and signed into law by Washington,” Duran said. President Donald Trump on March Schiff said the federal govern- 27. The legislation was a $2 trillion ment included a moratorium on economic relief package aimed at foreclosures for those with federal- protecting Americans from public ly-backed mortgages, and for those health and economic impacts of who have properties that are feder- COVID-19. ally mortgaged, and there is a mora- Some assistance included stimu- torium on evictions of renters. lus checks to assist workers and the “We know that cities have also Paycheck Protection Program, taken steps to allow renters post- which supports small businesses pone rent payments and not face through a $350 billion fund. evictions,” Schiff said. “I am co- Schiff added the PPP reached sponsoring legislation that would capacity, and Congress is looking to provide $250 billion to try to help replenish it in the next package for small cities, as well as co-sponsor $310 billion, which was approved of a federal campaign for $100 bil- by the Senate earlier this week and lion in relief for renters to try to may be voted on by the House of ease this burden on renters and ten- Representatives as soon as today. ants.” Schiff also said there were a He added it’s also vital for cities number of problems that were iden- like West Hollywood to make up tified with the PPP. for lost revenue. But Congress is “If you’re a small business, and struggling to put a provision into you’re a customer of a large bank, it new legislation that would allow was often difficult to get funding cities to access some of the CARES through the program,” Schiff said. Act funding, not just for pandemic “Many of the large banks choose to response, but also for revenue loss, favor their larger, more lucrative he said. customers. Those who banked with City Manager and Director of smaller banks generally got better Emergency Services Paul Arevalo service and managed to get through appreciated Schiff’s discussion and the program, but many didn’t.” how he understood that cities need He said Congress, more so support. Democrats, want to make program- “The last relief bill provided matic changes to ensure that every funding to cities with populations small business has equal access, with more than 500,000. That’s and banks don’t play favorites. only 36 cities of the nearly 20,000 “The pandemic is hitting poor cities in the U.S.,” Arevalo said. communities, minority communi- “Only 36 cities are getting relief ties in particular lethal ways,” from the federal government. Of the Schiff said. “We are seeing tremen- incorporated cities, nearly 15,000 dously disparate harm from this of those have populations under virus. We didn’t want to compound 5,000 people.” it by making it even more difficult West Hollywood is affected too, for those struggling to keep their as city staff is hyper-focused on cre- businesses afloat.” ating a one-year budget that bal- The follow-up package will be a ances revenue and expenditure partial answer toward helping small because the city anticipates to lose businesses, Schiff said. $15 to $20 million based on the shut West Hollywood Councilwoman down of business, Arevalo said. Lauren Meister asked about the “We are looking for some quick stimulus checks and if there was a fix that will most likely be a defer- better way to get them out to ral of some projects, but as we roll Americans. into the next year it’s going to be a “In the early days [of the pan- real challenge for us to look at the demic], there was this urgency to new economy, and what our new get money out to people,” Meister revenue will look like over the next said. three, four or five years,” Arevalo Schiff said that Americans would said. be far better off with a universal Mayor Pro Tempore Lindsey program of paycheck or payroll Horvath said as of now, cities are protection rather than a quilt of not getting direct funding from the small businesses programs, a large federal government. The funds go industry program or a stimulus to the state, and there is no require- check program. ment to have the money come to the Although he supports the efforts local level in a set period of time. by the federal government so far, he Horvath, who is a member of the is advocating for a comprehensive National League of Cities, said the approach with something called the organization is working to obtain Payroll Guarantee. This program, federal relief to small cities like which is still being discussed, West Hollywood, and will continue 8 April 23, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Purple Line subway work keeps moving along Congressman Schiff laments Construction on Metro’s Purple Line Extension project continues closure of local newspapers as an essential activity during the COVID-19 emergency. Significant After the Los Angeles Times progress has occurred in the city of announced plans on April 16 to Beverly Hills, which allowed a full stop publishing the Glendale closure of Wilshire Boulevard News-Press, Burbank Leader and between El Camino and Crescent La Cañada Valley Sun, U.S. Rep. drives to expedite piling during the Adam Schiff (D-Burbank) issued public health emergency. a statement about the decision. The closure was allowed because “I was saddened to learn of the of a decrease in traffic flow and has decision by the Los Angeles Times allowed for faster completion of to shut down the Glendale News- piling on the south side of Wilshire Press, Burbank Leader and Valley Boulevard. That piling was origi- Sun. These are institutions that nally expected to be completed in have served our community for U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff August but is now on track for decades, and have chronicled and completion in early May. guided our way forward for as being repeated all over the country “While we recognize this work long as many of us can remem- in communities large and small. It is some of the most difficult and ber,” Schiff said. “I have read has been going on for years, but impactful to date, it is happening at these papers for decades and had the sudden onset of the coron- a more rapid pace and will reduce the privilege of working with avirus pandemic has accelerated future congestion in our busy busi- many of their reporters and edi- these trends, and more and more ness district when merchants places are becoming news deserts, photo by Edwin Folven tors. And while I’m sure I took reopen following the COVID-19 issue with some of their articles without dedicated journalists to Crews are working 24-hours in a staging yard at Wilshire/Western, the emergency,” said Beverly Hills from time to time – as it should be investigate corruption and tell Mayor Lester Friedman. “We current terminus of the Purple Line subway route. – I never once doubted their skill local stories. This is a tremendous appreciate the community’s and professionalism, or their pas- loss, and a threat to democracy. patience as crews complete this through Saturday. Orange Grove Hall. To participate, call (872)240- sion for serving our community. Though there are no easy answers, complex project as quickly and Avenue continues to be closed 3412, and use the access code 155- Whether it was uncovering I believe it is important that safely as possible.” south of Wilshire Boulevard 342-909. wrongdoing or profiling one of our Congress examine ways we can Work hours, from 8 a.m. to 9 through June. Metro is also holding a webinar amazing residents or documenting support local journalism of the sort p.m. for drilling, and 9 to 11 p.m. Tunneling support, hauling and on the downtown Regional our community coming together, the News-Press, the Leader and for non-drilling activities, were not deliveries are ongoing near Connector project on Wednesday, you could be certain these papers the Sun have practiced for many adjusted for the expedited con- Wilshire/La Brea and a work zone April 29, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. would be there.” years,” Schiff said. “I want to say struction and remain in accordance in the center of Wilshire Boulevard For information, call (323)466- Schiff said he is also con- thank you to the journalists, editors with agreements between Metro just east of Sycamore Avenue. 3876, ext. 3. cerned about the closure’s impact and publishers from these great and the city of Beverly Hills. The Work hours are 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. and For questions and concerns, call on the media and print journal- local institutions, both past and project includes new hauling hours 7 p.m. to 2 a.m., Monday through the 24-hour project hotline at ism industry. present. Thank you for your ser- between 7 and 9 a.m., and 4 and 7 Saturday. Intermittent lane closures (213)922-6934, email the project “I would be remiss if I didn’t vice to our community, and know p.m. Metro may work on non-reli- may be necessary between team at [email protected], say that I am deeply worried that that you and your work will be gious holidays including Mother’s Highland Avenue and Detroit Street or visit metro.net. the loss of these three papers is deeply missed.” Day, Memorial Day and Father’s for construction support. Day. Sycamore Avenue will be closed Soft closures will be in place north of Wilshire Boulevard from 7 along Wilshire Boulevard within a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through the detour area and local access to Friday. Westbound Wilshire businesses will be maintained. Boulevard may be intermittently Work is also progressing at other reduced to a single lane between locations along the project route. Mansfield and Sycamore Avenues Near Wilshire/La Cienega, station from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday construction, material deliveries through Friday. and instrumentation are ongoing. A work zone in the center of Work hours are Monday through Wilshire Boulevard just west of Saturday, 4 a.m. to 6 p.m. Gale Rimpau Boulevard will remain in Drive will be intermittently closed place through September. Wilshire at Wilshire Boulevard to support Boulevard has been reduced to two construction in the Gale staging lanes in each direction between yard. Access to Gale Drive will be June Street and Muirfield Road. maintained from San Vicente Near Wilshire/Western, work is Boulevard. occurring 24 hours at a staging Near Wilshire/Crescent Heights yard just west of the intersection of and Wilshire/La Jolla, utility and Wilshire Boulevard and Western tunnel investigation continues dur- Avenue. Northbound Manhattan ing off-peak hours from 9 a.m. to Place will be closed intermittently 3:30 p.m., and 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., just north of Wilshire Boulevard. weekdays, and 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., Intermittent single-lane closures weekends. One-and two-lane clo- may also occur on Wilshire sures may be necessary along Boulevard between Western Wilshire Boulevard between San Avenue and Manhattan Place. Diego Way and San Vicente Metro will hold a webinar on Boulevard. Wednesday, May 6, from noon to 1 Station construction, hauling and p.m. with information and updates concrete pouring also continue on construction on the Purple Line near Wilshire/Fairfax. Ogden Extension. The webinar will serve Drive will be closed intermittently as the regular monthly meeting at Wilshire Boulevard, Monday usually held at Beverly Hills City

Letters to the Editor

Thank you for keeping report the news and activities to us who await your paper every the community Thursday morning. Wish we could send you a informed press release [about] our lovely Re “Letters to the Editor: Keep Vocal Competition and Concert, up the good work, Beverly but this year [has been] post- Press,” April 9 issue poned to 2021. My very best regards and good health wishes. Bravo to Mark Elliot in his praise to Beverly Press. I think it Nedra Zachary is amazing how you keep pub- The Loren L. Zachary Society for lishing going forth to generously the Performing Arts Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 9 April 23, 2020 Ryu creates outreach program for isolated seniors Los Angeles City Councilman “We will only get through this person visits with isolated seniors David Ryu, 4th District, has crisis by working together and find- using its smartphone app. With in- launched a Senior Outreach ing creative ways to help our most person visits not feasible during the Program to provide direct assis- vulnerable,” Ryu said. “Our seniors public health emergency, the app tance to older residents and create are vulnerable not just to COVID- has been repurposed to enable vol- volunteer opportunities for people 19, but to social isolation and diffi- unteers to call isolated seniors and who want to help. culty getting their basic needs. coordinate trips to stores for gro- The program connects volun- Through our Senior Outreach ceries, prescriptions and other teers with seniors in their areas and Program, we are calling seniors essentials. is managed by Mon Ami, a digital across Council District Four direct- Ryu’s program is the first Mon platform that recently partnered ly and connecting them with volun- Ami partnership in the city of Los with the city of San Francisco. teers who can pick up a prescrip- Angeles. Volunteers are sought and photo courtesy of Olympia Medical Center Ryu’s program is a partnership with tion, buy groceries or check in with must fill out an online application A donation from Rocco’s Pizza made possible by Keith Kirkwood of L.A. Works, which coordinates vol- a friendly conversation.” and go through a background unteer programs in Los Angeles. Mon Ami usually coordinates in- check. the Gift Global Initiative and Big Sunday fed the MRI staff at “Now is the time for us all to Olympia Medical Center and raised their spirits. come together and play our part,” said Mon Ami co-founder Madeline Dangerfield-Cha. “Even before COVID-19, seniors were at Community support boosts great mental and physical health risk due to social isolation. We can use our technology to show these morale among medical staff individuals how much they matter Residents and community orga- symptoms of COVID-19. Visitors and that we are here for them, no nizations are coming together to cannot enter unless a patient is matter what. We’re excited to part- support physicians and the health under life-threatening conditions. ner with Councilmember Ryu and care staff at Olympia Medical “We are so thankful for the hard the city of Los Angeles to keep Center during the COVID-19 pan- work of the hospital staff,” seniors connected with their com- demic. Surgical masks and Keurig Olympia Medical Center CEO munity.” coffee machines and pods have Matt Williams said. “The team- Since launching his Tenants been donated, as well as food from work within our departments and Outreach Program on April 8 in Rocco’s Pizza, Sweetgreen, The coordination has truly made a dif- partnership with L.A. Works, Ryu’s Park’s Finest BBQ and Pho Ever ference in our effectiveness. Our staff and volunteers have sent Bistro. The hospital staff is very gratitude goes out to the communi- 11,322 texts and made 1,719 calls appreciative and the donations ty and donors for their joining to tenants and vulnerable residents have boosted morale, said Chief together in support of the hospi- of the 4th District. Nursing Officer Sheryl Howland. tal’s courageous healthcare work- To sign up to volunteer for the The hospital requires all visitors ers.” Senior Outreach Program, visit to be reviewed for symptoms and Olympia Medical Center is photo courtesy of the 4th Council District Office app.monami.io/phone-bank/wel- all employees and medical staff to located at 5900 W. Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles City Councilman David Ryu and his wife Regina have been come. For information, visit have temperatures taken before For information, visit interacting with seniors online and with phone calls. davidryu.lacity.org. entry, to check for fever and other olympiamc.com.

Let us do the cooking! Blue Plate Specials dinners for 4 - $40 Take Out - Curb Side Pick Up #1 Blue Plate EXPRESS #4 Blue Plate EXPRESS Chicken Pot Pies -moist chicken, green peas, carrots, potatoes and gravy Macaroni & Cheese Casserole Bacon Garnish topped with buttery crust. Garlic Bread Mixed green salad with choice of dressing Choice of soup du jour (cups) Choice of whole fruit pie or a Full Stack Hotcakes Choice of fruit pie or a Full Stack Hotcakes

#2 Blue Plate EXPRESS #5 Blue Plate EXPRESS Meatloaf – Topped with brown mushroom gravy. (2) Full Stacks – Buttermilk Hotcakes Creamy Mashed potatoes Scrambled Eggs Fresh Seasonal Vegetables Hash Browns Choice of whole fruit pie or a Full Stack Hotcakes Bacon or Sausage Freshly brewed Coffee #3 Blue Plate EXPRESS Add 5.00 for any Specialty Hotcakes Turkey Dinner – hand carved with all the trimmings. Creamy Mashed Potatoes Fresh Seasonal Vegetables Choice of whole fruit pie or a Full Stack Hotcakes

In the Original Farmers Market 3rd & Fairfax (323) 933-8446 (323) 933-8447 10 April 23, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

sausage or a bottle of wine. Order munity that has supported Mickey’s dedicated to providing meals for the online and pick up. 2128 Hillhurst Deli over the past 68 years, West L.A. Police Department and RESTAURANT NEWS Ave., (323)661-0055. Mickey’s Deli is offering $5 regular L.A. fire stations through the non- sized Mickey's combos. This is profit Friends of West L.A. first by Jill Weinlein valid throughout the entirety of the responder program, as well as Mickey’s Deli gives quarantine. 101 Hermosa Ave., Ronald Reagan Hospital. With the and strawberry and rhubarb pre- (310)376-2330. help of generous donations from Little Dom’s serves. Select their $25 daily three- to others the neighborhood regulars, the Six ‘pan-domic’ menu course menu to go or Little Dom’s Chow House has also made meal at-home pizza making kit for two, ocal heroes on the front lines The Six Chow donations to St. John’s Hospital and ext to Little Dom’s restaurant which includes two pizza doughs, a Lagainst COVID-19 can receive Kaiser Permanente. They have Nis a boutique grocery store in ball of mozzarella and house-made a free Mickey's combo when they House scheduled a meal donation for Los Feliz featuring farmers market tomato sauce, plus the option to identify themselves as a front-line Cedars-Sinai in the next few weeks. vegetables, produce, meats, organic toppings like kalamata olives, pep- medical professional or first he restaurant known for its reg- 10668 W. Pico Blvd., (310)837- eggs, freshly baked focaccia bread, peroni and house-made fennel responder. To give back to the com- Tular and gluten-free pizzas is 6662.

WOW!

For a Limited Time! We’re Offffering Our World Famous e BaHotcak tttter! 32 oz. - $11.95 • 16 oz. $9.95 + melted butttter & syrup Call Now to Order!er! In the Original Farmers Market 3rd & Fairfax (323)933-8447 Baakery (323)933-8446 Restaurt ant

We’re Open and Ready to Serve You! Monday–Saturday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Serving the finest meats and poultry in Los Angeles

Family Owned at the Farmers Market for 79 Years 6333 W. Third St. • Farmers Market • 323.938.5131 www.marcondas.com Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 11 April 23, 2020 Film fans flock to AFI’s online movie club

The American Film Institute announced its new program AFI Movie Club has expanded the organization’s social reach and has united more film enthusiasts. AFI Movie Club launched on March 31 and since then garnered more than 2.5 million impressions on social media, and visits to AFI’s photo courtesy of Paxti’s Pizza website increased by 124% with Paxti’s Pizza offers half-baked deep-dish pizzas for Angelenos to enjoy users spending 72% more time on at home. the AFI Movie Club page. The program’s purpose was to L.A. Live Patxi bring artists and audiences together while apart amid the coronavirus photo courtesy of Black Dog CoffeeFacebook page Pizza party pandemic. AFI selects an iconic movie each day for people to watch ave an at-home pizza party with half-baked deep dish Patxi Pizza. The together, creating a communal Black Dog Coffee partners with Big Hhalf-baked pizzas store well in the fridge or freezer, so guests can pick viewing experience at up a few at a time to reheat on a later date. Order their Date Night package, afi.com/movieclub. which includes a 10-inch specialty deep-dish pizza, two starter salads, an Special guest Willem Dafoe, an Sunday to help first responders appetizer or dessert pizza, and a bottle of house wine for $50. 1011 S. Academy Award-nominated actor, Figueroa St., (213)999-9414. announced the film “Casablanca” During the COVID-19 pandemic, Black Dog Coffee is partnering with as the AFI Member Top Pick on Big Sunday in the new “Food is Love” campaign. source for cauliflower crust. The April 14. The film has the distinc- Black Dog Coffee has served the Miracle Mile community for more than Broken Spanish Margherita, pepperoni, and barbe- tion of being one of AFI’s most cel- 21 years. It is working with Big Sunday to provide home cooked meals for Taco Tuesdays cue chicken pizzas were delivered ebrated films across its lists and, to frontline health care workers and the custodial staff at Los Angeles hospi- in Caulipower tote bags and celebrate the film’s designation as tals. Black Dog Coffee delivered 80 boxed dinners to Olympia Medical an AFI Member Top Pick, members Center on April 17. hef Ray Garcia and the team at wrapped with a thank you note from PizzaRev and Caulipower. submitted short videos sharing why Support is needed for the effort and donations are sought by visiting CBroken Spanish launched B.S. they love the film. blackdogcoffee.com/bigsundaydonations. Indicate in the “tribute” section Taqueria Taco Night for a limited Right now, PizzaRev is offering a 30% discount on all online orders AFI shared and posted these fan that donations are to Black Dog Coffee so that Big Sunday will direct the time. Favorite menu items includ- videos across its social media chan- donation toward meals for hospital workers. ing tacos made with hand-pressed with the code ONLINE30 at checkout. Also, kids eat for free with the nels. Black Dog Coffee is located at 5657 Wilshire Blvd. and is offering curb Landrace organic corn tortillas with side pick up and delivery. Visit blackdogcoffee.com. the choice of chorizo and potato, purchase of an adult entrée by using shrimp a la diabla, carne asada, and the code FREEKIDS at online checkout. 4550 W. Pico Blvd., mushroom and garlic; along with our AFI members who have Taylor Hackford, Eva Longoria, tortilla chips with queso Oaxaca, (323)549-9090. engaged with us and those future Helen Mirren, Elisabeth Moss, salsa roja, salsa verde, and pinquito members who are just finding out Brad Pitt and Emma Roberts intro- beans for $15 per person. Optional 4th & Heart is a about everything AFI has to offer, duced AFI Movie Club film titles. add-ons include guacamole, B.S. we thank you for supporting AFI A different actor announces the Taqueria’s famed rice and beans, hometown hero and its mission to honor the art of selection for each day. churros, batched cocktails, spirits, “When AFI Movie Club was the moving image.” AFI was established in 1967 and beer and wine. B.S. Taqueria Taco eading ghee manufacturer 4th launched, our hope was to bring AFI Movie Club’s first selection the organization dedicates itself to Night is available for pickup at the L& Heart is giving back to the together movie lovers across the was the “The Wizard of Oz,” which the education of artists and audi- restaurant on Tuesdays, with Los Angeles community in multiple world, and we were honored that so Steven Speilberg announced for ences through initiatives that cham- advance ordering at ways by fueling those risking their many people have welcomed us AFI. Since the launch of the pro- pion the past, present and future of exploretock.com/brokenspanish. lives for our well-being. They are into their homes,” said Bob gram Halle Berry, Robert De Niro, the moving image. Pick up between 4 to 10 p.m. 1050 actively donating masks to local Gazzale, president and CEO. “To Cynthia Erivo, Morgan Freeman, For information, visit afi.com. Flower St., (213)749-1460. grocery stores and deliver services. 4th & Heart food products are being delivered to local hospitals and first Porridge + Puffs feeds responders. They are also partici- first responders pating in the Ultimate BFY Shelter at Home “Box with Benefits,” part- Brighhtten Their Day witith a n honor of the late Jonathan Gold, nering with the National First IPorridge + Puffs is offering the Responder Organization to ensure Children’s’s TeTea P ra t y at Home Gold Set Meal. With your purchase, 100% of all proceeds benefit first each set meal will go towards buy- responders, and donating products Pe anut Butttter & Jelly TrTriangles on Whe ta ing a meal for a first responder to the No Small Meals Plan. Assortrted Minni Sandwiches and/or front-line worker in Los fourthandheart.com. Angeles. The restaurant is providing Ham & Ch eese, Chicken Salad, 100 meals a week to nurses, doctors, Smoked Salmon upon request ($2 extra) school lunch program providers, RECOVƎR 180° food bank workers, local law Mini Mufﬁfﬁnns & Donuts enforcement, EMTs and firefighters. keeps L.A. well Teddye Bears, rF esh Fruit Skewers If you know of a group that can use he premium immunity boosting Dolls & Robots some Porridge + Puffs love, email TeTea & Apple Juice beverage is hydrating those the restaurant directly. Also, their T Welcome! who need hydration most right now provisions shop is open with pick up Children’’ss TeTea for 2 - $16.00 – first responders and hospital n on Thursday through Saturday from workers across Los Angeles. The Children's TeTea for 4 - $20.00 noon to 6 p.m. Visit brand, in partnership with their dis- squareup.com/store/porridgeprovi- includes Children’ ’ ’ss TeTea fT foor 6 - $24 .00 tributor Beauchamp, is donating sions to see the items they are offer- cases of RECOVƎR 180° to help paper plates & ing, including meal kits, banh mi Children's TeTea for 8 - $28.00 these individuals stay healthy and sandwiches, porridge and their deli- a surpise for kids! hydrated during their long shifts. cious puffs. 2801 Beverly Blvd., Recently, they donated over 100 Available for TaTake-Out & Delivery! (213)908-5313. cases of products to Centinela Orrdder 2 days in advance Hospital Medical Center. The brand PizzaRev partners is continuing donations this week and on an ongoing basis to hospi- with Caulipower tals, fire stations, police stations and more to support first responders ast Friday, PizzaRev donated during this difficult time. RECOV- Lfresh pizza to over 40 super- ƎR 180° is available to the public at markets across Los Angeles Target, 3535 S. La Cienega Blvd., County, as a way to say thank you (310)895-1131; 7-11, 1770 N. to grocery workers on the front Highland Ave., (323)462-4711; In the Original Farmers Markett • 3rd & Fairfax lines. This delivery was in partner- Earthbar, 8365 Santa Monica Blvd., ship with Caulipower, PizzaRev’s (323)301-4980. drinkrecover.com. (323) 933-8446 • (323) 933-8447 12 April 23, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press SoCal Museums shine a light on enjoying art virtually

In response to the COVID-19 director at the Skirball Cultural education program, Getty pandemic, numerous cultural insti- Center. “We are pleased to offer a Unshuttered. The lessons include tutions across Southern California wide range of activities to not only perspective, composition, shot size, are offering educational resources local children and educators, but lighting and portraits. for families and teachers to utilize people in other parts of the country LACMA offers online curricular while they shelter at home. SoCal and the world.” resources that foster creativity, Museums has compiled dozens of One of the only organizations of inspire personal growth and new and compelling online educa- its kind, SoCal Museums is com- enhance learning. tional opportunities for children of prised of arts and culture communi- LACMA@Home offers additional all ages, presented by more than 30 cations professionals, and aims to digital resources to think and learn Southern California museums and increase visitation to and awareness about art. cultural institutions. of museums in Southern California. Los Angeles Museum of the These resources reflect a range of Among several collaborative initia- Holocaust offers guides for educa- subjects – from contemporary and tives, the group is most known for tors for teaching the Holocaust historical art to science to fashion – presenting the Museums Free-for- through primary sources and and employ different learning All, an annual free admission day Holocaust survivor testimony, as modalities, from virtual instruction across the region. well as short student-created films to activity books to storytelling. The Autry Museum of the about the lives of Holocaust sur- They are presented from institu- American West offers standards- vivors. tions large and small across the based and self-paced lessons that Natural History Museums of Los region. engage students with Autry collec- Angeles County offers NHMLAC “For more than 15 years, SoCal tions through interactive activities Connects, a new digital portal to Museums has made arts and culture and connections to home and today, discover and learn about nature, more accessible to our communi- in addition to themed digital tours science and culture from the safety ties, including visitors from outside featuring Autry collections. of home. the region. In the face of this global Craft Contemporary offers Craft The Skirball Cultural Center crisis, our member museums are at Home, a new series of easy-to- offers weekly #SkirballAtHome, finding a way to bring exciting and follow craft activities for the whole family-friendly art projects, plus transformative cultural experiences family. suggestions for ways to build com- to our younger audiences,” said The Getty Museum offers munity even from our homes. Jennifer Caballero, SoCal lessons on the fundamentals of pho- For information, visit socalmuse- Museums president and marketing tography, as part of a teen-centric ums.org.

photo by Andy Kitchen LACMA reimagines everyday life through art ‘Urban Light’ illuminates why viewing art is The Los Angeles County Museum of Art created LACMA @ therapeutic during ‘Safer at Home’ Home, an online program that provides a museum experience at “Urban Light” remains one of the most popular art installations at home. LACMA, and once the “Safer at Home” order is lifted, Angelenos will LACMA shifted its focus from once again flock to the site for selfies and to enjoy the beauty of LACMA’s talking about Easter to a short film campus. about the egg-shaped art museum from Guatemala, el Nuevo Museo de Arte Contemporáneo. Visitors can watch “An Egg- shaped Museum Travels to L.A.” How about a which tells the story of how Guatemala’s first and only contemporary art museum traveled from juicy cheeseburger! Guatemala City to Los Angeles thanks to an international Kickstarter community of 492 sup- porters. The video also shows the programming its founders created photo courtesy of Los Angeles County Museum of Art in the egg-shaped museum. Marion Post Wolcott’s “Woman Making Biscuits on Corn-husking Day” LACMA also highlighted Earth (1939) is part of LACMA’s collection. Day, and celebrated with Art + Tech grant recipient Julia Christensen, who hosted a virtual panel and dis- Rhizome, and Jessica Gambling, LACMA also released this cussion on April 22 at 4 p.m. LACMA archivist, were also week’s construction updates on Christensen’s discussion focused speakers for Christensen’s panel. Unframed, and continued to honor on the perceived notion that people Additionally, LACMA discussed #ArtsMonth2020. The museum’s need to constantly upgrade elec- art-making by using everyday Virtual Arts Tune-Up, available tronics to remain relevant and how objects found at home through through April 24, offers free learn- humanity’s actions impact the Make Art @ Home, a new series of ing and professional development future of the planet. instructional art-making videos cre- for local artists. Aria Dean, editor and curator at ated by LACMA educators. For information, visit lacma.org Our restaurant menu Petersen organizes digital Breakfast Club Cruise-Ins is available for

Although the Petersen Automotive Museum remains stories from enthusiasts all over the globe and sharing closed to the public due to the COVID-19, the museum their passions in a way that unites us all in spirit even take out & delivery! will continue its eight-year tradition of Breakfast Club while we are standing apart.” Cruise-Ins in a new digital format. All submissions will receive a YouTube link 24 Phone in an or der and we ’ll ha ave it The museum has opened submissions for the world’s hours prior to the global cars and coffee livestream. first global cars and coffee, which will consist of a 90- During the premiere of the video, Petersen Museum ready for pick up! minute video featuring vehicle video submissions from will open a poll, so viewers can vote in the People’s car enthusiasts. Once submissions are compiled, the Choice Award. Or get it delivered through Postmates!t global cars and coffee video will premiere live on the The museum will announce the Petersen Perfection museum’s YouTube channel on April 26. Award and Best in Show. Awards will be shipped to Our deli, bakery and all People can participate by following three easy steps: owners following the event. record a short 20- to 30-second horizontal video of a For information, visit petersen.org. of your favorites are available!b vehicle, upload the video to Dropbox, Google Drive or YouTube, and fill out the form on petersen.org/cars- and-coffee-online with your information, car story and video link. Since 1931 “Our Breakfast Club Cruise-Ins have become an integral part of the Los Angeles car community over the past eight years,” said Terry L. Karges, Petersen executive director. “We didn’t want to stop the tradition this month because of the pandemic, so we had to get WoWorld Famous, AwAwawardrd Winning RReestaurant • Deli • Bakekery • Bar creative to keep it going and also make it more inclu- sive than ever before. We look forward to seeing the 419 N F. a irfaax AvAveve. (323) 651-2030 photo by Andy Kitchen Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 13 April 23, 2020 Get in the groove with ‘Dance Sundays’ live-streamed from the Wallis Dance Sundays, the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts’ series of free dance classes geared for the entire family, goes online when dancer and choreographer Debbie Allen leads a free livestreaming salsa class on Sunday, April 26 from 1 - 2 p.m. “Although Dance Sundays, currently in its fifth season, is tradi- photo courtesy of the Getty Museum tionally presented on The Wallis’ Animal Crossing: New Horizon, a video game that allows players to outdoor Promenade Terrace,” said design a dream island on a handheld gaming console, players can use Paul Crewes, The Wallis’ artistic the Getty Museum’s tool to access and generate art from its collections. director. “Debbie Allen’s streamed salsa class provides a fun and safe alternative opportunity as we all continue sheltering at home. It’s a Getty launches Animal Crossing great way to stay active with your family.” art generator Allen, a Wallis board member who created Dance Sundays, is a Animal Crossings: New Horizons is a video game that allows players to three-time Emmy Award-winner design a dream island lifestyle from the comfort of their homes. A player who has also been recognized for can plant trees, trade clothing with friends, design a house, and now can her vast body of work with a wear Van Gogh’s “Irises,” add a Renoir or Monet to wallpaper or host an Golden Globe, five NAACP art exhibition using Getty’s new tool. Image Awards, Drama Desk, The Art Generator transforms any open-access image in the Getty Astaire and Olivier awards and a Museum’s collection into a mini artwork for Animal Crossing. Players can star on the Hollywood Walk of search images from the online collection or choose from some of Getty’s Fame. She served as artist-in-resi- favorites, which are available in the generator, then scan the QR code to dence at the Kennedy Center for bring the artwork into the game. more than 15 years. The museum added a special converter, so that open-access artworks In 2001, Allen opened the provided by other museums, as IIIF images, can also be transformed and Debbie Allen Dance Academy in shared on the game. For information, visit experiements.getty.edu/ac-art- Los Angeles, which is an integral generator. part of Dance Sundays, providing photo by Rob Latour courtesy of The Wallis its highly regarded instructors to Dance Sunday is choreographed by Debbie Allen at The Wallis. lead the classes and supplying fun- damental organizational support. class is available via Instagram at For information, visit thewal- Dance Sundays will be live- Instagram.com/therealdeb- lis.org streamed and on-demand salsa bieallen/.

WE’RE FULLYLY STOCKED WITH ITEMS FOR COVID-19 PROTECTION • MASKS

photo courtesy of The Autry GLOVES• Artist Mian Situ’s “Oak Trees in Tejon Ranch” is an oil on canvas artwork that is part of The Autry’s collection. • PAPAPER TOTOWELS The Autry celebrates plants and poetry • CLEANERS & APSSO • SHOE COVERS The Autry celebrated California tions. The first Office Hours fea- Native Plant Week from April 13-17 tured Amy Scott, executive vice email us at [email protected] by curating plant-related content on president for research and interpreta- its website. tion on April 16. The next Office 323.656.3737 The California Legislature first Hours is scheduled for today with launched Native Plant Week in 2010 host DeLanna Studi, co-artistic Still Open to honor the 6,500 types of plants director of Native Voices, from noon native to California, which a third of to 1 p.m. Alwaayyss Essential these species are found nowhere else The Autry also released L.A. oF rerevevever Helpful on the planet. Poets in Place: Sounds in partnership Visitors to The Autry Online with Dryland Literature on April 17. learned more about plants native to The event was live on Zoom and had California by participating in a digi- local poets engage in discussions tal tour of the Ethnobotanical with participants. $5 OFF $10 OFF Garden. The tour educated people on L.A. Poets in Place next program per gallon any purchase $50 or more how to identify native plants, what is on April 24. Nikolai Garcia, assis- makes these plants special and how tant editor for Dryland, will host dis- Benjamin Moore paint on any reggpular prriced items. to grow them. cussions with poet Vane Lissette and With this coupon With this coupon Visitors also explored the flora Viva Padilla, Dryland’s founding Expires 4/30/20 Expires 4/30/20 collections, that are held in the editor-in-chief. library and archives, at the Autry. There are two additional exhibi- Cheryl Miller, Liza Posas and tions that can be seen online. The Christina Hummel-Colla, who are first is the installation of “Behind part of the library and research staff, Bars,” which are photographs by Wishing compiled resources and information Pep Williams from his 2017 photo a about native plants on a blog post at series of California prisons. Visitors everyone theautry.org/research/blog/plants- to the Autry Online can watch a archives. video of Williams discussing his P so The post described how people favorite images and what he hopes HappyH ppy Passover can explore The Autry’s archives to viewers take from the series. Eastert ! find books, photos, and art to learn The second exhibition, “Masters & Happy Easter! 7769 Santa Monica Blvd. • WeWest Hollywood about the history of local flora. of the American West,” offers new In other non-plant related content, works by top contemporary artists 323.656.3737 The Autry introduced Office Hours, working in the Western genre. a live Q&A hosted on Instagram that Visitors can view and purchase some UPDDAATATED STTOORE HOURS:: MONDDADAYAY – FRIDDAAYAY 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM allows viewers the opportunity to of these works online. SAATTURDDAAYAY 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM SUNDS DAAYAY 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM ask experts across the field ques- For information, visit theautry.org. 14 April 23, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

We’re all in this together, apart But this crisis has exposed more than BY NICK MELVOIN just the digital divide LAUSD Board Member and we’re doing At 8 a.m. on Monday, I was at learning, an emergency investment our best to provide Webster Middle School in West of $100 million was made in L.A., but not, of course, to check in devices and mobile hotspots. needed resources on classes or students. Although it’s Luckily, some schools had less of to children only been five weeks since the Los a hurdle getting devices into kids’ and families. Angeles Unified School District hands because my office funded closed schools, the world, and L.A. new instructional technology facebook.com/nick.melvoin. Unified, look a lot different. through a bond grant program over Every family should have access But our core mission of educat- the past two years – including to a great education, even while ing kids and supporting our com- Chromebook carts at Cheremoya staying home. You don’t have to munity remains unchanged. And and Gardner elementary schools, look further than your own neigh- that’s why I was at Webster, visiting and Bancroft and Le Conte middle borhoods to know it’s possible. one of our Grab & Go food centers schools. Teachers and staff at Vine Street to see how things were going for But this crisis has exposed more Elementary have been meeting on the volunteers and families they’re than just the digital divide and Zoom to share best practices, learn serving. we’re doing our best to provide from each other and develop learn- Our first priority when schools needed resources to children and ing plans. Fairfax High has been closed was getting 63 Grab & Go families. distributing devices to make sure food centers up and running – Visit achieve.lausd.net/resources every student gets connected. including one at Bernstein High or call the COVID-19 family hot- Melrose Avenue Elementary has School in Hollywood – that have line (213)443-1300 for a list of moved its “Coffee with the served over 10 million meals. The resources and services available for Principal” meetings to Zoom. And, LAUSD is running the largest food students, families and employees we’ve helped facilitate local part- bank in the country. All of the Grab during this time. Those who want to nerships to provide meal deliveries & Go centers are open Monday help can donate by visiting lastu- and headphones to minimize learn- through Friday, from 8 a.m. - 11 dentsmostinneed.org. The district ing distractions. a.m., with meals available to any- has also launched a Mental Health We are all doing our best to adapt one in need. hotline at (213)241-3840. to an ever-evolving situation. No Another new routine has been I also have been hosting regular amount of technology can match a joining Zoom calls with parents, virtual conversations with leaders, “typical” day at school, but we will teachers and even students to dis- experts and parents, and so far, con- continue working tirelessly, think- photo courtesy of LAUSD Board Member Nick Melvoin’s office cuss the transition to distance learn- versations have been about fostering ing creatively and providing sup- Los Angeles Unified School District Board Member Nick Melvoin recently ing. To ensure every student had resilience and supporting the earliest port to get our kids, families and equitable access to the materials learners. The public can join every school communities through this volunteered at a Grab & Go food distribution site at Helen Bernstein High needed to connect and continue Wednesday at 4:30 p.m. by visiting crisis together, but apart. School in Hollywood. banner campaign marks a county- “One bright spot to come out of increased attendance for our online Campaign stresses the need for wide effort to increase the number self-isolation is an increased inter- orientations and hope to encourage of foster and adoptive homes. Los est in learning about the foster and even more people to learn how they Angeles County manages the adoption process,” said Rich can help children in foster care.” foster parents to ‘raise a child’ nation’s largest child welfare sys- Valenza, founder and CEO of For information, visit tem, with 35,000 children in care. RaiseAChild. “We’re seeing raiseachild.org. RaiseAChild, a nonprofit dedi- “At a young age, I experienced cated to supporting foster and adop- the pain in foster care of being sep- tive parents, has installed hundreds arated from my siblings,” Haddish of streetlight banners throughout said. “It was then that I decided to Los Angeles with images of three do what I could to assure foster famous former youth in foster care. children that they are loved and val- The new campaign featuring ued.” actresses Tiffany Haddish and “I was very fortunate that I was Marilyn Monroe, and U.S. adopted at nine months,” added Olympian Greg Louganis, raises four-time gold medal diving cham- awareness about the need for foster pion Louganis. “I even had the and adoptive parents. opportunity to briefly meet the “The coronavirus pandemic has woman who fostered me. I have placed many families in uncertain had amazing opportunities I never circumstances due to unemploy- would have had otherwise. I am ment, changes in family dynamics truly grateful.” and heightened health concerns,” Monroe also attained success said Bobby D. Cagle, Director of after living in foster care. Los Angeles County Department of “A lesser-known part of Marilyn Children and Family Services. Monroe’s story is that she grew up “Our goal for this campaign is to in the foster care system. Similar to encourage people to imagine them- any child in foster care, Marilyn selves as foster or adoptive parents often craved the stability of loving and join our virtual orientations and parents and a permanent home,” trainings, so we are all better pre- said Katie Jones, vice president of pared in the aftermath.” entertainment for Authentic Brands May is observed as National Group, owner of the Marilyn Foster Care Month, and Monroe Estate. “We’re honored to RaiseAChild is using the stories of support RaiseAChild’s mission and Haddish, Monroe and Louganis to bring awareness to this important show the success possible for people cause.” formerly in the foster care system. Running through mid-July, the

photo courtesy of RaiseAChild Banners with images of Olympian Greg Louganis, including this one on Los Feliz Boulevard, as well as actresses Tiffany Haddish and Marilyn Monroe are raising awareness about the need for foster parenting. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 15 April 23, 2020

Los Angeles Police At 12:40 p.m., an unknown sus- cle parked near the corner of pect committed a petty theft in Manhattan and First at 10 p.m. P OLICE BLOTTER Department the1600 block of Normandie. At 10:27 p.m., an unknown sus- April 12 An unknown suspect burglarized a pect committed a petty theft in the vehicle parked in the 8500 block of 1500 block of N. Vista. At 3:30 a.m., an unknown suspect Colgate at 1 p.m. The following crimes occurred in West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the committed a burglary in the 300 April 16 areas patrolled by the LAPD’s Wilshire and Hollywood divisions between block of S. Gramercy. At 4 p.m., an unknown suspect April 12 and April 18. The information was compiled from www.crimemap- committed a burglary in the 700 At 5:53 a.m., an unknown suspect ping.com. To report a crime, call local law enforcement agencies: Los An unknown suspect committed a block of N. Martel. committed a petty theft in the 1700 Angeles Police Department, Wilshire Division (213)473-0476, Los Angeles petty theft in the 1100 block of N. block of N. Las Palmas. County Sheriff’s Department West Hollywood Station (310)855-8850, and Sycamore at 7 a.m. An unknown suspect stole a vehi- the Beverly Hills Police Department, (310)550-4951. cle parked near the corner of An unknown suspect committed a At 9 a.m., an unknown suspect Barton and Vine at 5:55 p.m. petty theft in the 6000 block of

Stanley at 3:15 p.m. burglarized a vehicle parked in the Hollywood at 6:30 a.m. Beverly Hills Police At 6 p.m., an unknown suspect 400 block of N. Stanley. committed a petty theft in the 1100 At 5:53 p.m., an unknown suspect At 6:35 a.m., an unknown suspect Department block of Vine. committed a petty theft in the 1000 An unknown suspect stole a vehi- burglarized a vehicle parked in the

block of Beverly. cle parked in the 5700 block of 1800 block of N. Van Ness. April 12 Hollywood at 1 p.m. An unknown committed a petty

theft in the 5000 block of W. An unknown suspect burglarized a At 7:30 p.m., an unknown suspect West Hollywood At 3 p.m., an unknown suspect Sunset at 6:45 p.m. vehicle parked in the 800 block of committed a petty theft in the 9400 committed a burglary in the 600 N. Hayworth at 8 a.m. block of Wilshire. Sheriff’s Station block of Cloverdale. At 7 p.m., an unknown suspect

burglarized a vehicle parked near At 5 p.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect committed a April 12 An unknown suspect committed a the corner of Eight and Dunsmuir. committed a burglary in the 400 petty theft from a vehicle in the burglary in the 400 block of N. block of N. Larchmont. 8900 block of Burton Way at 9 At midnight, an unknown suspect Sweetzer at 3 p.m. An unknown suspect committed a p.m. burglarized a vehicle parked in the grand theft in the 7400 block of An unknown suspect robbed a vic-

8600 block of Holloway. At 4:20 p.m., an unknown suspect Melrose at 7:30 p.m. tim near the corner of Highland April 13 burglarized a vehicle parked near and Hawthorn at 5:30 p.m. An unknown suspect stole a vehi- the corner of Santa Monica and At 11:30 p.m., an unknown sus- An unknown suspect committed a cle parked in the 1200 block of N. Vine. pect committed a burglary in the At 7 p.m., an unknown suspect petty theft from a vehicle in the La Brea at 6:34 p.m. 1600 block of Serrano. burglarized a vehicle parked in the 200 block of S. Doheny at 3:30 An unknown suspect assaulted a 1500 block of N. Saint Andrews. a.m. April 13 victim near the corner of Santa An unknown suspect burglarized a Monica and Vine at 4:40 p.m. vehicle parked in the 1100 block of An unknown suspect committed a At 6 p.m., an unknown suspect At 10:30 a.m., an unknown sus- N. Sycamore at 11:55 p.m. petty theft in the 5600 block of burglarized a vehicle parked in the pect committed a petty theft in the At 4:45 p.m., an unknown suspect Wilshire at 11:08 a.m. 8900 block of Burton Way. 8200 block of Santa Monica. committed a burglary in the 4600 April 15 block of Olympic. At 9:30 p.m., an unknown suspect April 14 An unknown suspect assaulted a At 2 a.m., an unknown suspect stole a vehicle parked in the 1700 victim in the 1100 block of N. Fuller An unknown suspect committed a committed a petty theft in the 1700 block of El Cerrito. At 12:49 a.m., an unknown sus- at 2:30 p.m. petty theft in the 6700 block of block of N. Van Ness. pect committed residential bur- Sunset at 6 p.m. An unknown suspect burglarized a glary in the 100 block of N. Swall. At 7:25 p.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect committed a vehicle parked in the 7200 block of A grand theft from a vehicle and a committed a petty theft in the 7100 At 6:29 p.m., an unknown suspect burglary in the 4600 block of Hollywood at 10 p.m. petty theft were also reported at block of Santa Monica. committed a petty theft in the 800 Olympic at 3:08 a.m. the same time and location. block of N. Western. At 11:30 p.m., an unknown sus- April 14 At 4:54 a.m., an unknown suspect pect robbed a victim in the 600 An unknown suspect burglarized a An unknown suspect robbed a vic- committed a burglary in the 6900 block of W. Sunset. vehicle parked in the 100 block of At 7:50 a.m., an unknown suspect tim near the corner of Franklin and block of Melrose. N. Swall at 3:43 a.m. assaulted a victim in the 8400 Vine at 7:50 p.m. April 17 block of Santa Monica. An unknown suspect burglarized a At 6:56 p.m., an unknown suspect At 11:26 p.m., an unknown sus- vehicle parked in the 5600 block of At 12:01 a.m., an unknown sus- burglarized a construction site in An unknown suspect committed a pect robbed a victim in the 700 Sunset at 6 a.m. pect committed a burglary in the the 600 block of Mountain. petty theft in the 1100 block of N. block of S. Orange. 7900 block of W. Fourth. La Brea at 12:25 p.m. At 7 a.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect committed a April 13 committed a burglary in the 5800 An unknown suspect committed a petty theft from a vehicle in the At 3:15 p.m., an unknown suspect block of Olympic. burglary in the 800 block of S. 200 block of N. La Peer at 8 p.m. robbed a victim in the 8600 block An unknown suspect committed a Plymouth at 1:30 a.m. of Rugby. burglary in the 5500 block of An unknown suspect burglarized a At 8:25 p.m., an unknown suspect Wilshire at 5 a.m. vehicle parked in the 1300 block of At 3 a.m., an unknown suspect robbed a victim in the 400 block of An unknown suspect stole a bicy- N. Kenmore at 10:15 a.m. stole a vehicle parked in the 800 N. Oakhurst. cle in the 1100 block of Ogden at 8 At 6 a.m., an unknown suspect block of S. Gramercy. p.m. committed a petty theft in the 6100 At 11 a.m., an unknown suspect April 15 block of Hollywood. committed a grand theft in the 800 An unknown suspect committed a At 9:30 p.m., an unknown suspect block of Sycamore. burglary in the 5300 block of At 8:57 p.m., an unknown suspect stole a vehicle parked in the 9000 An attempted burglary was report- Sunset at 5:10 a.m. assaulted a victim in the 8400 block of Lloyd. ed in the 6800 block of Hollywood An unknown suspect committed a block of Gregory. at 9 a.m. petty theft in the 1800 block of N. At 5:40 a.m., an unknown suspect April 15 Cherokee at 12:03 p.m. committed a burglary in the 200 At 10 a.m., an unknown suspect April 16 block of S. La Brea. committed a petty theft in the 5100 At 1 p.m., an unknown suspect At 3 p.m., an unknown suspect block of Hollywood. committed a burglary in the 1800 An unknown suspect burglarized a At 4 p.m., a vandalism incident burglarized a vehicle parked in the block of Garfield. vehicle parked in the 600 block of was reported in the 100 block of N. 9000 block of Beverly. An unknown suspect committed a S. Detroit at 6:30 a.m. Hamilton. petty theft in the 300 block of S. An unknown suspect committed a An unknown suspect committed a April 16 Detroit at 11:30 a.m. burglary in the 400 block of S. La At 3:10 p.m., an unknown suspect petty theft in the 300 block of S. Brea at 3:45 p.m. committed a petty theft in the 7600 Canon at 10:23 p.m. At 4:30 p.m., an unknown suspect At 2:30 p.m., an unknown suspect block of Beverly. assaulted a victim near the corner robbed a victim in the 900 block of At 4 p.m., an unknown suspect of Gardner and Santa Monica. N. Western. robbed a victim in the 100 block of An unknown suspect stole a vehi- April 17 S. Fairfax. cle parked in the 600 block of S.

Detroit at 4:30 p.m. At 4 p.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect committed a An unknown suspect burglarized a An unknown suspect committed a burglarized a vehicle parked in the burglary in the 8400 block of Santa vehicle parked in the 1100 block of petty theft in the 1500 block of N. At 7:15 p.m., a suspect robbed a vic- 300 block of S. Swall. Monica at 6 p.m. N. Sycamore at 5 p.m. Martel at 4 p.m. tim in the 400 block of N. Van Ness.

An unknown suspect committed a At 8 p.m., an unknown suspect At 5:30 p.m., an unknown suspect At 6:10 p.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect burglarized a petty theft in the 200 block of S. burglarized a vehicle parked in the committed a petty theft in the 100 burglarized a vehicle parked in the vehicle parked in the 400 block of Arnaz at 4 p.m. 8200 block of Santa Monica. block of N. Fairfax. 500 block of N. Kings. S. Detroit at 8 p.m.

At 6:30 p.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect burglarized a An unknown suspect burglarized a An unknown suspect committed a At 9 p.m., an unknown suspect committed a petty theft in the 100 vehicle parked in the 1100 block of vehicle parked in the 4300 block of petty theft in the 1400 block of robbed a victim near the corner of block of N. Palm. Sherbourne at 11 p.m. W. Third at 6 p.m. Sycamore at 6:30 p.m. Beverly and Franklin.

April 17 At 8:52 p.m., an unknown suspect April 18 robbed a victim in the 7000 block At 8 p.m., an unknown suspect April 18

of Hollywood. stole a vehicle parked in the 5500 An unknown suspect committed a At 2:45 p.m., an unknown suspect At 12:05 a.m., an unknown sus- block of Carlton Way. petty theft from a vehicle in the stole a bicycle near the corner of pect committed a burglary near the An unknown suspect burglarized a 300 block of S. La Peer at 3:30 Doheny and Santa Monica. An unknown suspect committed a corner of La Brea and Willoughby. vehicle parked in the 5900 block of a.m. petty theft in the 1700 block of Carlton Way at 10 p.m. An unknown suspect committed a Whitley at 8:30 p.m. An unknown suspect burglarized a At 5:06 a.m., an unknown suspect petty theft in the 7100 block of vehicle parked in the 500 block of burglarized a vehicle parked in the Santa Monica at 3:12 p.m. April 14 At 8:45 p.m., an unknown suspect N. Stanley at 11 a.m. 300 block of S. Swall. stole a vehicle parked in the 6200 At 6 p.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect stole a vehi- block of Hollywood. At 8:50 p.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect committed a assaulted a victim in the 7100 cle parked in the 4600 block of W. committed a petty theft in the 700 petty theft in the 200 block of S. block of Santa Monica. Third at 11:15 a.m. An unknown suspect stole a vehi- block of Vine. 16 April 23, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Classified Advertising (323)933-5518 • email:[email protected] BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY

COMPUTER HARDWARE NEWSPAPERS UPHOLSTERY WEBSITE DESIGN PARK LABREA NEWS ALAKAZAM TThehe & BEVERLY PRESS UPHOLSTERY & DRAPERY Disc 5150 WILSHIRE BLVD. #330 Disc Affordable DocDoc SCREENS • DOORS P.O. BOX 36036 Prices Computer Problems? LOS ANGELES, CA 9006 HARDWARE Commercial & Residential I CAN HELP! SALES & INSTALLATIONS 323.933.5518 Every Style: Sofas, Chairs, Slipcovers • Troubleshooting www.beverlypress.com mackeycreativelab.com 7769 SANTA MONICA BL. Replace Feather Proof Lining • Lessons www.parklabreanews.com [email protected] WEST HOLLYWOOD Broad Selection of Fabrics, • Purchase Consultation Follow us on Draperies & Roman Shades • Phone Support (323)248-0840 Facebook & Twitter HIGHEST QUALITY Joel Rothman www.tashmans.com for the lat est news! WORKMANSHIP Now delivered in Call Rosie for FREE Estimate Since 1961 310-491-8409 323.240.5112 Family Owned & Operated Beverly Hills! [email protected] West Hollywood

CLEANING SERVICE Read Us • Pressure wash carpet, dry in 2 hours. Online • Janitorial Service - prepare www.beverlypress.com apartment for renting. • Clean apartment buildings. Updated daily • Complete • Special prices for offices. pdf of the newspaper • Liability & Workers Comp. • advertising information Ins. • archived issues Call Steve • subscriptions (323)376-7337 NEWS • CRIME • stevethejanitor.com ENTERTAINMENT The Signature Spice Blend We are now combines a medley of herbs INCOME TAX with hints of lemon and notes ALL YEAR delivering in of pepper.

INCOME TAX Beverly Hills! Buy it today & Professional Tax Return Spice up your Life! Preparation call (323)933-5518 www.shop.inemilyskitchen.com 10% DISCOUNT FOR NEW CLIENTS 5967 W. Third St. Suite #201 Crossword Puzzle by Myles Mellor Los Angeles, CA 90036 Phone (323)937-3848 Across 62. Wine press residue FAX (323)937-9970 1. Chesterfield or ulster 63. Observers Across street from Park Labrea 5. Forbid 64. Plow pullers email:[email protected] 9. Rough guesses 65. Scope 14. Fictional monster 15. 401(k) cousins Down DOG WALKER 16. Oscar-winning Berry 1. Homey 17. Gung-ho feeling 2. Double-curved arch 18. Abbr. on a business letter 3. Asian sea name 19. Soak 4. Show's partner 20. US attraction 5. Potentially a buyer 23. NY collection 6. Surrealist painter Max 24. __ carte 7. Diplomat's talent 25. 2009 James Cameron blockbuster 8. Olympics city after St. Moritz 29. South African monetary unit 9. Police badge 31. ___ Mahal 10. Busch Gardens locale 34. 911 response 11. Jessica of "Dark Angel" 35. Distinctive air 12. Bedim 36. Lose steam 13. Hunt for 37. They're a major US attraction 21. Yemeni's neighbor 40. Gr. 1-6 22. Grannies COOPER K-9 41. Extol 25. Campfire residue DOG WALKER 42. Shaped metal 26. Perfume bottles 39. Bachelor of literature, abbr. 53. Watson who plays Hermione in the • Leash Manner Training 43. Nine-digit ID 27. Aragorn's love in "The Lord of the 44. Pie shells Harry Potter films 44. Show approval, in a way Rings" • Socialization, Structure, 45. Beginning 54. Bring up the ___ 45. Some are significant 28. Side Exercise 46. "Otra" Spanish 55. Rushed 46. Sun or moon 29. Incur a bar debt 47. "Get ___!" 56. Blue Triangle org. • Insured, Certified 47. Met display 30. Like Death Valley 48. Swing about AKC Good Citizen Trainer 48. US attraction 31. Bit of color 49. "I left my heart in San Francisco" answers on page 19 323.393.5238 57. Scottish lakes 32. Intense devotion singer (first name) [email protected] 58. Big name in Scotch 33. Jokes 50. Crest Google: Latty Cooper 59. Persian protest, perhaps 35. Laser pointer battery 51. Very as seen on YouTube! 60. Not fulfilled 36. Hyperbolic tangent in math 52. Imitation 61. Muslim mystic 38. "Well, ___!" Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 17 April 23, 2020 You should be watching FX on Hulu’s ‘Devs’ Alex Garland is a fascinating screen with a miniseries as timely creator, making waves early as the as it is philosophical. The best rem- screenwriter for “28 Days Later,” a edy for any show hole is “Devs,” marvelous Brit zombie flick. Other all eight episodes currently stream- benchmarks include penning ing on Hulu as part of a new slate of “Dredd” (no, not the wretched programming dubbed FX on Hulu. Stallone one) and eventually writ- Unlike other FX productions ing and directing his own films: (“American Horror Story,” “Sons access, its willingness or not to A.I. thinker “Ex Machina” and trip- of Anarchy”), this one need not comply with formulas. But hey, art py bio-horror film “Annihilation.” bother with cable network regula- lovers have weathered this callous The former earned an Oscar nom, tions, like language and violence dismissal for centuries. while the latter served more as a and – more importantly – fear of All that to say “Devs” is a slow thought exercise than a complete live ratings. Hulu serves as a neces- burn with beautiful payoffs freed win. sity for high concept art that might from guns-blazing showdowns, Still, “Annihilation” did well ostracize impatient viewers. That’s grandiose car chases and protago- enough for critics and garnered OK. Plenty of other options can fill nists dramatically turning their praise from President Barack that void. backs on explosions. It centers on Obama on his 2018 recommenda- “Devs” is designed for the heady tech company Amaya’s secret Devs tions list. More so, the finale fea- sci-fi diehards who bubble and division. What exactly they do photo courtesy of FX tures the craziest and frankly most froth at the first synth note in takes time to unravel, but inside the Sonoya Mizuno stars as computer engineer Lily Chan, who finders her- iconic visual moment – compli- “Blade Runner” or the arrival of the facility resides scoops and scoops self in the middle of several conflicts in the new sci-fi thriller “Devs.” mented by a score equally iconic black monolith throughout “2001: of visual eye candy, a splendid but obscure – of the 2010s. A Space Odyssey.” dance between practical set design To kick off a new decade, now, “Pretentious,” it’s all been called. and digital texture. Dev’s endgame from “Picard” and “The Garland is obsessed with ques- Garland switches to the small But that word only limits art’s easy is a mystery, and Amaya owner Newsroom”), another breakout per- tions of identity and big data, all Forest (Nick Offerman from “Parks formance, ground the story with that behavioral data used to cus- and Recreation”) goes to great intellectually enriching forays into tomize online advertising. He asks lengths to protect his secrets. metaphysics. questions now presented to theo- Forest might be just as egotistical “Devs” lacks the mainstream rists, futurists and Silicon Valley. and jaded as Oscar Isaac’s tech boss appeal of other equally complex Are we only our body? Does in “Ex Machina,” but the outcome series like HBO’s “Westworld” – human autonomy exist? Those in “Devs” is more somber. His trag- and that says something consider- metaphysical talking points resist ic past compels him to follow a ing the Michael Crichton reimagin- the urge to explain the entire recipe; supervillain-level plan with twists ing’s relevant explorations of colo- good plating speaks for itself, after more empathetic. And Offerman nialism, sexism and robotics – but it all. plays against the type remarkably replaces bigger-than-life characters As things wraps up, “Devs” well. with a central thesis. Everything doesn’t undermine its premise, set- Computer engineer Lily (Sonoya transpires in service of that singular tling for a sentimental red herring. Mizuno) finds herself in the middle goal, resulting in a television prod- All character arcs reach a clear end of several conflicts following an uct that feels more like a seven- or at least a degree of resolution. alleged suicide that doesn’t make hour film. But the big screen can But it hardly answers all questions sense. Mizuno’s performance is mute the best parts of smart sci-fi, either. Instead, it ruptures expecta- much tamer here than previous oversimplifying concepts too much tions with a final twist that hides in roles in Netflix’s “Maniac” and to comply with average runtimes plain sight, once all those minor both of Garland’s features, includ- and a three-act structure. Garland and major stories converge. But ing one as “Annihilation’s” occasionally lobs some softball missing a few clues is only human. humanoid, who steals the show. explanations into scenes, but his That’s why a second and even third Still, her exchanges with characters writing and directing never conde- viewing of this thoughtful master- photo courtesy of FX like ex-beau Jamie (Jin Ha) and scend, trusting viewers to put in piece are both a necessity and Nick Offerman stars as Forest in “Devs,” available from FX on Hulu. Devs operator Katie (Allison Pill some extra mental work. delight. Groundlings video features anniversary highlights While the Groundlings Theatre pany has been providing digital Groundlings Podcast Network, and is currently closed for perfor- programming and entertainment to online improv and sketch classes mances, the comedy theater com- people at home through the with the Groundlings School. The Groundlings will next provide an opportunity to watch performances of alumni from the comfort of their homes. Last October, the Groundlings celebrated its 45th anniversary with special performances of iconic sketches from unforgettable characters that origi- A token of appreciation for nated at the theater. The public can watch the hilarious sketches by cast members from 2000-present on bus rider on his 100th birthday Vimeo On Demand. The cost is $5 for a 24-hour rental period. The video will be available to rent from 3 p.m. on Friday, April 24 until 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 26. All proceeds will support the nonprofit Groundlings Theatre. Main Company members and alumni featured in the video include Carrie Aizley, Jordan Black, Laurel Coppoc, Jim Cashman, Stephanie Courtney, Allison Dunbar, Nat Faxon, Will Forte, Andrew Friedman, Cheryl Hines, Roy Jenkins, Kevin Kirkpatrick, Steve Little, Jill Matson-Sachoff, Michael Naughton, Charlotte Newhouse, Brian Palermo, Jim Rash, Mitch The cover of the April 17, 1980, issue of the Park Labrea News fea- Silpa and Christen Sussin. Notable tured a photograph of Mark Birchall, who received a free annual sup- performances include “Spelling ply of bus passes from the Rapid Transit District (a precursor agency Bee” with Forte, Hines and Rash; to Metro) in celebration of his 100th birthday. The passes were given “Name Game” with Rash, Faxon, to Birchall as part of a community relations program. The celebration Courtney and Silpa; and “Mad also included Birchall’s favorite bus driver, Orville Hatfield (right). Pride” with Black and Silpa. Construction continues on the Metro Purple Line Extension project and For information visit, progress is being made with expedited work in Beverly Hills. Metro vimeo.com/ondemand/groundlings buses and trains continue to run during the COVID-19 emergency. 45th. 18 April 23, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Residential rent forbearance rules to be reconsidered at a future meeting From page 1 best to enforce the face-covering nies; including evictions for land- also have to consider buyouts and ordinance. Administrative fines and lord occupancy, renovations, con- layoffs, reduced overtime for city misdemeanor offenses were consid- dominium conversions and demoli- staff, reductions to city-sponsored ered. tions in the ordinance, joining the events and more, Muir said. “We shouldn’t institute rules we Ellis Act evictions that were already “We’re living in unprecedented have no intention of enforcing,” included; and preventing penalties times with a lot of uncertainty still Mirisch said. and interest from accruing on busi- remaining … We are in a fortunate The council decided against the ness taxes during the pandemic, position based on prior fiscal stew- misdemeanor offense, as it would among other changes. ardship of the city to commit to the give jurisdiction to the county However, the council declined to crisis in a strong financial position, courts, which are currently operat- take action on some other items, and it gives us more ability to be courtesy of Robbie Anderson’s book “Beverly Hills: The First 100 Years” ing in a limited capacity because of such as what to do about situations more thoughtful about our posi- the pandemic. Instead, Beverly where tenants move out without tions,” Muir said. “Beverly Hills: The First 100 Years” includes photos of landmarks Hills will enforce administrative paying deferred rent due to their Wunderlich said the council like the Beverly Hills hotel in 1957. fines of $100 for a first offense, landlord, so that City Attorney could use some of its reserves to $200 for a second offense and $500 Laurence Wiener could research the help fund that gap. for any subsequent offense. issue and present the council with “I do think this is a time period Beverly Hills history book “I think we need some kind of options. for us to use some of our reserves. consequence for being offensive or “We’re creating potential unin- Not to deplete them, but to use disrespectful or whatever, but in tended consequences I’m not sure some of them,” Wunderlich said. offered for free online general, we need to be saying we’re going to be able to think Mirisch said the city has to be ‘please put the mask on, it’s in your through tonight,” Wunderlich said. “very judicious and prudent” when Author and historian Robbie Southern California desert and best interest and everyone else’s,’” The council also discussed the using reserves, because “we don’t Anderson has teamed up with the grew into the most famous small Councilman Julian Gold said. financial impact the coronavirus is know if there’s going to be an earth- Beverly Hills Historical Society town in the world. This limited- The citations can be given out by expected to have on the city. quake tomorrow, and there could to deliver his lavishly illustrated time, online offering puts the city’s Park Rangers and mem- Director of Finance Jeff Muir be.” book for free to fans of Beverly Anderson’s exhaustively bers of the Ambassador Team, who said the city took a “fairly pes- “Yes, we can and should use our Hills. researched book at the fingertips have been performing outreach to simistic approach” to looking at reserves. We also should create pol- The 400-page book “Beverly of everyone from homebound stu- members of the public about the how much revenue would be lost icy to ensure that those reserves are Hills: The First 100 Years” has dents and history buffs to fans of face-covering ordinance, said Jenny and how the city would have to as quickly as possible built back been posted online for free by Hollywood and aficionados of Rogers, director of community adjust during what’s likely to be a up,” Mirisch said. Anderson exclusively on the glamour. development. Between April 17 and gradual recovery, likely to begin in The council members said deci- Beverly Hills Historical Society “This is a gift to the city I love 20, Rogers said the ambassadors late June or early July. sions about expenditure cuts and website, which also offers inter- along with many others,” and rangers contacted 1,500 people “There’s just so much unknown reserve use will come later, and active virtual walking tours of the Anderson said. “With everyone of approximately 6,500 total park right now, and what we’re forecast- Chavez said he’ll have more city, and dozens of vintage homebound, it seemed the per- visitors about wearing face covering is going to be a continual work detailed information for the council videos and rare photographs. fect time to give them a gift and a ings, and the city now displays large in progress as we work through this once the city holds sessions for this Beverly Hills, famous for its lift. Fans of Beverly Hills, young signs about the ordinance. crisis together and work to find year’s budget. Council members movie stars and extravagant and old, can discover our leg- “This has been an incredibly suc- solutions,” Muir said. said they were open to this upcom- estates, its lush gardens and glo- endary past and revisit the good cessful effort and we’re making an Muir said the city expects the fis- ing budget – which must be rious weather, lives in the collec- old days.” impact and getting folks to comply cal year 2020-21 general fund rev- approved by July 1 – being done on tive imagination as a paradise. “I want to share this with citi- with the order,” Rogers said. enue to be about 20% less than that a three- or four-month basis instead This volume brings that vision to zens and visitors alike,” The council also left the door of 2018-19. In comparison, the Dot- of annually, to create more flexibil- life with hundreds of rare pho- Anderson added. “I just felt that open for future changes to the face- Com Bubble only slowed growth, ity for the city. The council mem- tographs from the author’s this was the right time and the covering ordinance. with revenue rising about 0.4%, and bers also asked that they be updated unmatched personal collection, right place to do this. I want “This is evolving. We’re going to the Great Recession led to a 6.2% monthly on the city’s finances. and stunning new photography everyone to please enjoy this and be addressing this again in two weeks decrease in revenue. “We’ll know on a month-to- commissioned especially for the pass it on to their friends.” … My guess is as cities reopen, If no action is taken, Muir said, month basis if we’re moving in the book. To read “Beverly Hills: The masks are going to be part of daily the city will have a $104 million right direction or if we need to go Anderson also shares fascinat- First 100 Years,” visit beverly- life for a little while,” Bosse said. budget gap over the next six years. further, but this is a very fluid situa- ing stories revealing how Beverly hillshistoricalsociety.org/bh-first- Aside from face coverings, the To help remedy this gap, Muir said tion,” Chavez said. Hills bloomed from the barren, 100-years. council made other changes to the the city is looking into short-term Council members also requested emergency ordinances that were solutions like delaying capital that the public be kept up to date on passed last month. The council improvement projects, keeping changes to the city’s finances. chose to further limit the types of some unfilled jobs vacant, reducing “It’s a work in progress, but Supervisors work to keep commercial tenants that can defer the city workforce through volun- sooner rather than later, we should paying rent during the crisis, tary retirements and buyouts, and get the details out so people know expanding the types of tenants that forgoing some vehicle and equip- what we’re thinking about and can homeless seniors housed don’t qualify from Fortune 500 ment repairs for a year. help with the decision-making,” companies to Fortune 1,000 compa- In the long-term, the city may Wunderlich said. Amid the pandemic, Los Angeles tained.” County is making an unprecedented “Now is the time to be having effort to urgently bring 15,000 these conversations – not when the homeless people indoors to protect disaster funding runs out,” Ridley- L.A. CARES Corps to help small businesses them from COVID-19 and slow the Thomas added. “We may need to spread of infection. Acting on a strategically prioritize existing On April 9, Los Angeles Mayor center at (833)238-4450, where “This is a tough time for small motion by Supervisors Mark Ridley- resources, including housing Eric Garcetti announced the for- counselors trained in completing businesses, and we want to con- Thomas, 2nd District, and Janice vouchers and supportive housing mation of L.A. CARES Corps, a SBA loan applications can offer nect them to resources that can Hahn, 4th District, the Board of units that are coming online with partnership between the city and live assistance. help ensure their survival,” said Supervisors approved developing a Measure H and Proposition HHH county of Los Angeles to provide “This crisis has turned our local Carolyn Hull, general manager of plan to keep particularly vulnerable funding, as well as Rapid small businesses with assistance business community upside down, the Economic and Workforce homeless individuals housed even Rehousing slots and resources for in applying for federal loans that leaving thousands of entrepre- Development Department. “L.A. after the pandemic has subsided. veterans.” can help them survive the neurial Angelenos unsure if they CARES Corps will offer the tech- Currently, the L.A. County CEO Hahn said the county is “using COVID-19 crisis. will stay open or make payroll,” nical assistance and practical Homeless Initiative is collaborating unprecedented resources to bring “When we talk about saving said City Councilman Bob expertise they need to navigate a on Project Roomkey with the state people off the streets and indoors lives, we’re also talking about Blumenfield, 3rd District. “If we complicated process.” of California, the Los Angeles during this pandemic.” livelihoods,” Garcetti said. “Small can help our local companies Garcetti has taken several steps Homeless Services Authority, and “This is the level of urgency that businesses are the heartbeat of our access as little as an additional to assist the business community other public and private partners to the homeless crisis has demanded economy, and we must do every- .3% of the SBA federal financial during the COVID-19 emer- secure 15,000 hotel and motel for years, and when the day comes thing we can to help them through help, it will literally mean more gency, including an $11 million rooms to serve as temporary homes that this pandemic is behind us, we this very difficult moment.” than $1 billion for Angelenos. economic relief package built on for people experiencing homeless- need to ensure that we can take Federal relief established close Helping position companies for microloans and a moratorium on ness who are particularly vulnera- advantage of the progress we have to $350 billion for two different these funds will help both commercial evictions. The mayor ble to contracting the coronavirus, made and make sure that the people Small Business Administration employers and employees get also formed L.A. Protects – a especially seniors and those with we have found shelter do not end up loan programs: Economic Injury through this incredibly tough partnership to organize the city’s underlying health conditions. As of back on the streets,” Hahn said. Disaster loans and the Paycheck time.” fashion and garment industry to April 13, more than 1,946 beds at The motion called for the county Protection Program. At coron- For businesses that are not eligi- make protective gear and other 23 sites have been procured, of to report back with an initial plan in avirus.lacity.org/carescorps, ble for an SBA loan, L.A. CARES medical supplies for frontline which 515 beds are already in use. 30 days and a longer-range imple- small business owners can find a Corps can share information on workers – which could help busi- “We can’t just think short-term,” mentation framework within 45 clear explanation of the two how to apply for the city’s Small nesses that might otherwise have Ridley-Thomas said. “We need to days to ensure options to all home- emergency loan programs and Business Emergency Loan or to close, by connecting them with be thinking two steps ahead in order less older adults aged 65 and older directly access applications. obtain assistance through a opportunities to provide an essen- to mount a crisis response that is who are willing to receive housing There is also a dedicated call-in BusinessSource Center. tial service. not only comprehensive, but sus- and services. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 19 April 23, 2020 Nonprofit to oversee project’s 133 units for Small businesses need extremely and very low-income seniors more help, Schiff says From page 1 From page 7 The project was significantly re- envisioned from the previous COVID-19 pandemic. because we’ve been through it Millennium Hollywood develop- “We’ve been through an epi- before and we paid a heavy price ment. The Hollywood Center demic,” Duran said. “We know in terms of loss in our communi- Project includes more housing than the difference between an antigen ty,” Duran said. “We are standing the previous Millennium project, test from an antibody test, we by ready to offer our expertise which called for 492 residential know why an ELISA (enzyme- and experiences on how to do units, 200 hotel rooms and 100,000 linked immunosorbent assay, some of these things.” square feet of office space. Office which tests for antibodies in Schiff agreed and added there space is not included in the new blood) test is important, we know are many holes in the safety net of project. about contact tracing because we health care, access to capital and The Millennium Hollywood pro- had to do all this in the ‘80s.” the unemployment compensation ject was approved by the Los He added that there seems to system, and before society can Angeles City Council in 2013 and be a belief out there, from a lot of think about reopening, attention later halted in 2015 after communi- people, that if people get tested must be paid to testing, self-isola- ty groups filed a lawsuit and a judge then everything will go back to tion, tracing of those who are pos- ruled the project’s impacts on the normal, but it’s not just testing at itive and social distancing. surrounding area were not ade- any one moment. It’s about con- “As we plan our way forward, quately addressed. The developer rendering courtesy of Handel Architects tinuous testing, he said. we have to think about how we went back to the drawing board to MP Hollywood has released a rendering showing the configuration of the “I hope as you and other L.A. build a better, more equitable and create the new Hollywood Center Hollywood Center Project. delegates tap into the LGBT just America as we emerge from Project. community on these issues this,” Schiff said. “MP Los Angeles has worked Palumbo said. that it had mechanisms that benefit closely with the Hollywood com- The release of the draft EIR on some of the greatest needs that we munity and elected officials to cre- April 16 began a 45-day period for have, and that is affordable housing, ate a project that addresses Los the public to review the plans. and housing in general.” Newsom taps state leaders for Angeles’ current and future needs, Comments from the public will be O’Farrell also cited the project’s from affordable housing and envi- included in the final EIR. The pro- advantage of being close to public ronmental stewardship to neighbor- ject will then undergo an additional transit at the Hollywood/Vine Red business, jobs task force hood revitalization and historic public review period before being Line subway station, and that it preservation. We are pleased with considered by the Los Angeles would not require much demolition Bringing together leaders across framework to guide our re-opening the findings from the city’s DEIR Planning Commission, the Los because the site is largely parking California’s diverse, innovative eco- timing while planning our econom- released last week, as it substanti- Angeles City Council’s Planning lots. O’Farrell reiterated, however, nomic and social sectors to chart a ic recovery. I am honored that ates that this is a carefully designed and Land Use Management that he needs to look at “all the path forward on recovery in the wake dozens of leaders in business, labor, and environmentally conscious pro- Committee and the full council. Los details” before weighing in on the of COVID-19, Gov. Gavin Newsom health and philanthropy are step- ject,” said Mario Palumbo, a partner Angeles City Councilman Mitch Hollywood Center Project. announced on April 17 the formation ping up to meet this moment by with MP Los Angeles, in a state- O’Farrell, 13th District, said he will The Millennium Hollywood proof a state Task Force on Business and committing their time and talent to ment. review the draft EIR and has not ject was hotly contested by Jobs Recovery. The task force will be lift up all Californians. Through Palumbo added that the 133 made any decisions about the pro- stopthemillenniumhollywood.com, co-chaired by Newsom’s Chief of their leadership, and the leadership affordable units are “one of the ject. led by attorney Robert Silverstein, Staff Ann O’Leary and philan- of California’s 40 million residents, largest complements of on-site “I have to spend some time on it who filed the lawsuit that resulted in thropist, environmentalist and busi- I have no doubt we will emerge affordable housing within a market- and take a good long look, but one the ruling halting the development. nessman Tom Steyer, who was also stronger from this crisis.” rate development in the history of thing is clear, this project has so Silverstein is also leading opposi- appointed Chief Advisor to the The task force will work to devel- the city,” and Menorah will provide much more going for it than it did tion to the Hollywood Center Governor on Business and Jobs op actions government and busi- “critical on-site social services for seven years ago in terms of Project. Recovery. He will receive no com- nesses can take to help Californians the senior residents” of those covenant affordable housing, in Los Angeles Superior Court pensation for his service. recover as fast as safely possible affordable units. terms of senior affordable housing Judge James C. Chalfant noted the from the COVID-19 induced reces- “In addition to the affordable and and just more housing in general,” project’s potential effect on traffic sion and to shape a fair, green and market-rate residences, the mixed- O’Farrell said. “I feel much more on city streets and the nearby “We will use a prosperous future. They will meet use project will enliven the site with optimistic about the Hollywood Hollywood (101) Freeway in his gradual, twice a month throughout 2020 to two civic plazas lined with retail Center Project now than I did seven 2015 ruling, but Silverstein said science-based develop options that would work shops and restaurants and new years ago. We have taken great care there are far more potentially dan- for all Californians, with a particu- pedestrian walkways connecting in making sure before the project gerous impacts. Silverstein high- and data-driven lar focus on those hit hardest by the Argyle Avenue and Ivar Avenue,” team ever published the draft EIR, lighted a dispute over the location framework to pandemic. of earthquake faults that run The task force will craft ideas for through Hollywood near the project guide our short-, medium- and long-term site. State geologists determined re-opening solutions that reflect communities Los Angeles aims to simplify faults are located near the site, but across the state, and emphasize a precise locations are not document- timing while fair and equitable recovery. There approvals for eatery owners ed. The Millennium Hollywood planning our will be significant emphasis on the state’s strengths, including diversity developer hired experts who deter- economic On April 15, Los Angeles City we made it easier to enforce mined through extensive testing in and innovation. The task force will Planning released the framework against any bad actors, while still 2015 there were no significant seis- recovery.” not only focus on immediate recov- for a new program that would sim- giving small business owners a mic threats at the project site, and ery, but on actions to support a the city later certified those studies. cleaner, more equitable and pros- plify the approval process for sit- leg up,” Director of Planning -Gov. Gavin Newsom down restaurants seeking to serve Vince Bertoni said. “Like Jason from the grave, perous future for all Californians. alcoholic beverages. The proposed Nightclubs, bars and liquor Millennium is back. This time, they The governor formed the Restaurant Beverage Program stores would not be eligible to slightly tweaked the project and are Members of the task force Business and Jobs Recovery Task would shorten the time for city take advantage of the proposed lurking under a new name, called include Senate President pro Force just days after he announced approvals from months to weeks. program. They would continue to ‘Hollywood Center.’ But a rose by Tempore Toni Atkins, Assembly a multi-state task force with Oregon The profit margin from sales of apply through a separate discre- any other name stinks just as bad,” Speaker Anthony Rendon, Senate and Washington to coordinate the alcoholic beverages has helped tionary process that involves Silverstein said in a statement. Minority Leader Shannon Grove, reopening of the regional economy. restaurant owners stay afloat dur- community input. To prevent the “‘Hollywood Epicenter’ is more Assembly Minority Leader Marie Newsom outlined a road map to ing sharp rises in rent and payroll proliferation of alcohol-serving accurate. These massive proposed Waldron, former Federal Reserve recovery with six indicators that costs and, more recently, in the establishments, City Planning skyscrapers will have all the dan- Chair Janet Yellen, Walt Disney should be met before California’s midst of the COVID-19 pandem- developed eligibility criteria to gers of the original project, and Company Executive Chairman Bob stay-at-home orders are modified. ic. The Restaurant Beverage limit this program to restaurants more.” Iger, former head of the Small Program would create an efficient meeting certain criteria, includ- The draft EIR is available for Business Administration Aida and easy-to-navigate process, pro- ing having an operational kitchen public review in person by appoint- Álvarez and dozens of prominent Answers From Page 16 viding opportunities to new star- and full menu. ment only at the Department of City leaders in business, labor, health tups while also aiding the recovery City Planning is drafting a sep- Planning, 221 N. Figueroa St., Ste. care, academia and philanthropy. of existing small businesses, once arate but related ordinance that 1350. The draft EIR, and the docu- “This pandemic has forced mil- the stay-at-home orders are lifted. would impose standards on oper- ments referenced in it, may be pur- lions of Californians out of jobs – City Planning’s proposed pro- ators who received a state license chased on CD-ROM for $5 per with the most vulnerable hit the gram would allow qualifying to serve alcohol before the city copy. To arrange for a CD-ROM hardest,” Newsom said. “While we restaurants to receive over-the- issued alcohol permits. copy to be mailed, or for additional have made significant progress in counter approvals, saving time The City Planning accommodations, call Mindy flattening the curve and increased and money. Restaurant owners Commission will consider the Nguyen at (213)847-3674 or email preparedness of our health care would pay approximately $4,000 Restaurant Beverage Program in [email protected]. delivery system, the actions taken for a permit to serve alcohol – the coming months. City An overview of the draft EIR is have also impacted the economy, significantly less than the per- Planning will host a webinar in available by visiting planning.lac- poverty and overall health care in mit’s current price tag, $13,000. May. For information, visit plan- ity.org/development-servi- California. We will use a gradual, “In developing this program, ning4la.org/about/calendar. ces/eir/hollywood-center-project-1. science-based and data-driven 20 April 23, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press