Quick viewing(Text Mode)

Download Latest Issue

Download Latest Issue

BEVERLYPRESS.COM INSIDE

• Fires near Cross Partly cloudy, pg. 4 with highs in • WeHo talks future the 60s of Pride pg. 6

Volume 30 No. 50 Serving the Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Hancock Park and Wilshire Communities December 10, 2020 BH pushes ahead with Giving takes on increased importance n Pandemic intensifies health department plan need during holiday n County faces setback in court over dining ban season

By cameron kiszla lawsuit filed by the California By edwin folven Restaurant Association – such as a Superior Court lack of data proving that outdoor din- With cars lined up for blocks Judge James Chalfant overruled ing significantly contributes to the waiting for food and other com- Los Angeles County’s prohibition spread of COVID-19 – echoed some forts, the need for increased dona- on outdoor dining on Dec. 8, but the of the statements made by members tions is severe this holiday season, state stay-at-home order still pro- of the Beverly Hills City Council dur- according to many nonprofits. hibits restaurants from reopening ing their Dec. 1 discussion opposing The Los Angeles Regional for dine-in service until Dec. 28. Food Bank, a supply source for Chalfant’s reasoning in deciding a See Business page 26 nonprofits throughout the county, reports that the amount of food being distributed has increased 145% over pre-pandemic levels. Since March, LARF has distrib- uted 140 million pounds of food – photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank the equivalent of 116 million The Los Angeles Regional Food Bank has experienced a dramatic meals – including 1.6 million increase in the need for food. There are many ways to help, including emergency food boxes provided hosting a virtual food drive. to families and individuals at drive-thrus and mobile food with $10 million in funding from said. “Before the outbreak, about pantry programs offered by part- Los Angeles County. But more 300,000 people received food ner organizations, spokesman support is needed. through direct distribution and our David May said. For now, food “The holidays will look differ- partner agency network. That donations have nearly kept pace, ent for everyone this year, but number is estimated to be above increasing 140% since the pan- especially for those in our com- 900,000 today.” demic began, according to LARF munity who have seen a reduction May added there are many photo by Cameron Kiszla statistics. The food bank is meet- in [work] hours or who are not ways people can help with food Outdoor dining in Los Angeles County is prohibited due to the state’s stay- ing demand by purchasing truck- currently employed,” LARF at-home order, but the county’s restrictions were overturned in court. loads of food at wholesale prices President and CEO Michael Flood See Donations page 27 City Council green lights Attie Building project Hanukkah in a pandemic n Hollywood and Wilcox n Rabbis ask: Are you to preserve historic maximizing your light? structure, create new mixed-use building By laura coleman When the sun sets tonight, By cameron kiszla marking the start of Hanukkah and the 275th day since COVID- The intersection of Hollywood 19 was declared a “global pan- Boulevard and Wilcox Avenue will demic” by the World Health soon be enhanced after the mixed- Organization, Jews across the use Hollywood and Wilcox project globe will celebrate as never was unanimously approved by the before. Los Angeles City Council on Dec. 8. “To make sure we can cele- The project from developer brate with each other next year, LeFrak aims to rehabilitate the 89- we have to do everything we can year-old Attie Building, home to the do to make each other safe,” “You Are the Star” mural featured Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills in the film “La La Land,” and con- photo by Cameron Kiszla Rabbi Jonathan Aaron said. struct a 15-story building behind The “You Are the Star” mural will be preserved as part of the Hollywood The Jewish festival commem- photo by Marc Saleh the Attie Building, along Wilcox and Wilcox project. orating the Maccabees’ success- The city of Beverly Hills contin- Avenue. ful rededication of the temple in ues to place an oversized meno- David Twerdun, managing direc- Jerusalem is symbolized by light- of some kind and the second floor mindful of the changing dynamics rah – and Christmas tree – in tor of LeFrak, said they were “defi- ing a menorah to represent the will be office space,” Twerdun said. of retail with online shopping, but Beverly Gardens Park during the nitely thrilled” to get the city’s Twerdun added that LeFrak there are several different good miracle of oil used to light the holidays. approval and plan to continue using hopes to bring a “higher-quality options for it that would cater to temple menorah for eight nights the 9,000-square-foot Attie tenant” to that stretch of Hollywood both tourists and local residents,” – seven more than the one night Building for commercial uses, as it Boulevard. he said. the oil should have lasted. around online opportunities. was used in the past. “We’d like something that will The new, 160-foot-tall building’s Amidst physical distancing Aaron said that each night at 6:15 “We’ll be improving the store- cater to the community, as well as exterior has changed since the pro- and other restrictions intended to p.m., Temple Emanuel will hold front, fixing the interior, fixing the tourists. It’s possible that it could be ject was first proposed – “We tried save lives, this year families and a Hanukkah lighting on Zoom. structural components of the prop- food and beverage or some other to be mindful of that and respectful friends will join together to cele- He emphasized that this year’s erty because it’s old and in disre- clothing retailer or something like brate this festival of light in cre- pair. The ground floor will be retail that. Obviously, we’ll have to be See Attie page 26 ative ways, many centering See Hanukkah page 27 2 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press CALENDAR Cities follow statewide noon. Disney ‘Breathe.’ Arturo Sandoval was committed In response to recent political, racial Legendary Cuban trumpeter Arturo to making the and global unrest, “Breathe.,” a live- Sandoval brings the ultimate Latin Disneyland din- stay-at-home mandates streamed multimedia form of art jazz party into ing experience The state of California has acti- sales. Additionally, overnight stays activism and interactive theater, will be homes with a just as entertain- vated a stay-at-home order for the for recreational visits at camp- shown on Friday, Dec. 11, at 5 p.m., concert filmed ing as the rides. Saturday, Dec. 12, at 3:30 p.m. and live at the Broad Southern California region, which grounds will not be permitted. Marcy Carriker Sunday, Dec. 13 at 2 p.m. Philicia Stage available includes Los Angeles County. Grocery stores can operate at Smothers will explore the “Kingdom Saunders wrote and stars in the one- on demand from of Good Eating” at the park, which The order took effect at 11:59 35% of capacity. Retail can allow woman live theater show, portraying 20 Thursday, Dec. p.m. on Dec. 6 and will remain in indoor operation at 20% capacity was among the first in the world to characters. “Breathe.” is based on her 10, through have a themed restaurant. The effect for at least three weeks. The with entrance metering and no eat- life-changing personal journey toward Monday, Dec. region will be eligible to exit from ing or drinking in the stores. Culinary Historians of Southern activism after a 13. The concert was filmed in California presentation will examine the order on Monday, Dec. 28, if Additionally, special hours chance trip to a October. Sandoval and his band per- ICU capacity projections for the should be instituted for seniors and Disney’s unexpected role of restaura- civil rights mon- form 60 minutes of original composi- teur, as well as what he ate at home. following month are above or others with chronic conditions or ument in tions and inspired covers that will get The event is free but reservations equal to 15% availability; the order compromised immune systems. Alabama and people on their feet and swaying to close 24 hours in advance. may remain in effect if COVID-19 Shopping centers can allow indoor mentorship by the beat. The cost is $10. thebroad- eventbrite.com/e/the-culinary-histo- cases continue to surge, impacting operation at 20% capacity with Sweet Alice stage.org. ry-of-disneyland-and-walt-disney- hospitalization rates. entrance metering and no eating or Harris, one of with-marcy-smothers-tickets- Community members are drinking in the stores and all com- Watts’ most 44274558396. required to stay at home as much as mon areas closed. Additionally, beloved community organizers. The Echo Theater possible and minimize mixing to special hours should be instituted piece is directed by Roger Q. Mason. reduce unnecessary exposure, for seniors and others with chronic The Dec. 3 program includes a post- Company stories ‘It’s a Wonderful while still being able to do impor- conditions or compromised performance discussion. Tickets are The Echo Theater Company gener- tant things such as go to the doctor, immune systems. pay-what-you-can; $5-$50 suggested. ates laughs and breaks hearts with its Life’ benefit buy groceries, pickup takeout food, Hotels and lodging are allowed breatheshow.eventbrite.com. monthly online series of curated per- Ed Asner joins a star-studded cast exercise and worship outdoors. to open for critical infrastructure sonal stories, which continues on including Mia Farrow, Carol Kane, Ed “COVID-19 cases continue to support only. Restaurants may only Friday, Dec. 11, at 7:30 p.m., via Begley Jr., Diedrich Bader, Bill rise very sharply in the region, and allow takeout, pickup or delivery. Kwanzaa Zoom. Storytellers were invited to Pullman, Ellie Kemper, Richard Kind, submit stories around the theme this is a critical time for all of us to Offices must operate remote- B.D. Wong and Michael Shannon for “Celebration.” They include tales of take prevention seriously … This is only except for critical infrastruc- celebration a one-night-only live virtual celebrity Kwanzaa is coming, and the Robey good times and bad times, silver lin- an extremely challenging moment ture sectors where remote working read of the 1946 holiday classic “It’s A Theatre Company will hold a virtual ings, relief, laughter, big wins and Wonderful Life” on Sunday, Dec. 13, for our community, for our state, is not possible. Places of worship celebration of the joyful holiday on personal victories. Admission is free, at 5 p.m. The event is a benefit for the and for the country, but we will get and political expression are Friday, Dec. 11, at 6 p.m., via Zoom. registration required. echotheater- Ed Asner Family Center, which sup- through this by taking care of our- allowed only outdoors. Festivities include musical perfor- company.com. ports mental health and enrichment selves and of one another,” West Critical infrastructure, non- mances by Robey artists including programs for special needs children Hollywood Mayor Lindsey urgent medical and dental care, and Cydney Wayne Davis, Julio Hanson, and their families. Tom Bergeron hosts Horvath said in a statement. child care can remain open with Marva Smith and the Hearts On Fire Disney’s culinary the program, which will also honor According to the order, all oper- 100% masking and physical dis- Choir, and young artists of the Jeffrey Frost, president of Sony ations must cease at indoor and tancing. West Hollywood has also Amazing Grace Conservatory. The history Pictures Television, a champion of an outdoor playgrounds; indoor recre- suspended some parking enforce- program will also feature comedy by Learn about the “The Culinary inclusive Hollywood and supporter of ational facilities; hair salons and ment. For information, visit Jason Mimms, Vanja Renee and History of Disneyland and Walt individuals with special needs. Tickets barbershops; personal care ser- weho.org/coronavirus and beverly- Stevie Mack. A $10 donation is sug- Disney” in a Zoom program on are $50. RSVP by visiting edasner- vices; museums, zoos and aquari- hills.org/coronavirus. gested. therobeytheatrecompany.org. Saturday, Dec. 12, from 10:30 a.m. to familycenter.salsalabs.org. ums; movie theaters; wineries, bars, breweries, and distillerie. To adhere to the order, play- grounds at Plummer Park and West Hollywood Park have been closed by the city of West Hollywood. Additionally, the order requires Warm Wishes for a Safe some sectors to have additional modifications in addition to 100% masking and physical distancing. & Healthy Holiday Season Outdoor recreational facilities can allow outdoor operation only with- out any food, drink or alcohol

Founded 1946 P.O. BOX 36036 LOS ANGELES, CA 90036 (323)933-5518 8444 WILSHIRE BLVD. BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90211 BEVERLYPRESS.COM

Michael Villalpando PUBLISHER

Karen Villalpando EDITOR & PUBLISHER

Edwin Folven [email protected] EDITOR Cameron Kiszla [email protected]

REPORTER Laura Coleman [email protected]

REPORTER Jill Weinlein, Tim Posada, Rebecca Villalpando, Emily Jilg CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

The Park Labrea News and Beverly Press are weekly newspapers, published on Thursdays. Mail subscription is $120 annually. Decreed newspa- pers of general circulation, entitled to publish legal U.S. Representative, 33rd District, Ted Lieu, Betty, Brennan & Austin advertising, Feb. 10, 1960 by Superior Court Order No 736637. Paid for by Ted Lieu for Congress Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 3 December 10, 2020 Beverly Hills to develop affordable housing West Hollywood, L.A. receive n Up to 300 units could perfect LGBTQ equality scores be built on West Third Street properties The Human Rights Campaign ed,” West Hollywood Mayor Foundation, the educational arm Lindsey Horvath said. By laura coleman of the nation’s largest lesbian, The MEI shows that munici- gay, bisexual, transgender and palities across the nation, includ- The Beverly Hills City Council queer civil rights organization, in ing in California, continue to take supported expanding the footprint of partnership with the Equality decisive steps to safeguard a potential affordable housing pro- Federation Institute, released its LGBTQ people, despite attempts ject at the southeast corner of West ninth annual Municipal Equality by some officials on higher levels Third Street and Foothill Road at its Index on Dec. 3. of government to roll back cru- study session meeting on Dec. 8. While Beverly Hills was not cial protections. City staff worked with consultant included in the rankings, both The MEI rated 506 cities includ- Keyser Marston Associates to eval- West Hollywood and Los Angeles ing the 50 state capitals, the 200 uate potential affordable housing earned perfect scores of 100 out largest cities in the U.S., the five projects at city-owned properties at of 100 points. The average score largest cities or municipalities in 9268 and 9298 W. Third St. The per for cities in California is 80 out of each state, the cities home to the unit construction cost would range 100 points, which falls above the state’s two largest public universi- from $131,000 to $218,000 and the national average of 64. ties, 75 municipalities that have project could include up to 300 The index is the only nationwide high proportions of same-sex cou- units. assessment of LGBTQ equality ples and 98 cities selected by HRC In considering whether to create a photo by Cameron Kiszla regarding municipal policy, law, and Equality Federation state group housing project that would include The city of Beverly Hills plans to develop an affordable housing project a and services in 506 cities across the members and supporters. It assess- market rate apartments, the council few blocks east of the Golden Triangle. nation, including 57 in California. es each city on 49 criteria covering was united that the development “Nine consecutive years of citywide non-discrimination pro- should be entirely affordable. The more comfortable spending $20 including using the smaller proper- receiving a top score on the tections, policies for municipal project is years away from poten- million rather than investing $60 ty more effectively. Human Rights Campaign’s employees, city services, law tially opening and rent prices have million and further encumbering “We’re not doing this because we Municipal Equality Index is enforcement and the city’s leader- yet to be determined. Affordable the city. want to be landlords of market-rate something that the city of West ship on LGBTQ equality. housing is generally considered to Vice Mayor Robert Wunderlich units. The purpose of doing this Hollywood is incredibly proud of For information, visit be 30% of a tenant’s monthly earn- said he supported both scenarios, affordable housing,” he said. and that we do not take for grant- hrc.org/mei. ings. “I agree, as everyone else does, that it should be total affordable housing, not market-rate housing,” Mayor Lester Friedman said, adding that the city needed to have a robust public engagement process as soon as possible. “We want to know what the public thinks before we get too far down the road.” The council recommended mov- ing forward with the RFP process and necessary zoning changes. Both parcels fall into the public service zone, which prohibits residential uses. The state’s Regional Housing Needs Assessment mandates that 3,100 new units be built in Beverly Hills by 2029 – a large portion of which must be affordable units. “We recognize the need for affordable housing [and] here we have an extremely unique opportu- nity,” said Councilman John Mirisch, who staunchly advocated for the need to create 300-plus units of affordable housing. He said the project would be “perfect” for seniors looking to stay in the community and age in place. Policy and Management Analyst Logan Phillippo said that based on council input in 2019, the city had planned to release a draft proposal for a project at 9298 W. Third St. in March but delayed doing so due to the coronavirus pandemic. Since then, the adjacent property became vacant after the former tenant did not renew the lease, giving the city an opportunity to expand the project from approximately 12,000 square feet to 60,000 square feet. According to the staff report, cost estimates are between $8 to $12.5 million to create a 60-unit project; between $21 to $33 million for a 150-unit project; and between $39 to $62 million for a 300-unit pro- ject. Using only the 9298 W. Third St. property, the city could develop a 60-unit project and potentially make approximately $95,000 per month by leasing the building at 9268 W. Third St., according to the staff report. The council also expressed support in having staff develop an RFP that would look at a phased approach so that the city would not have to invest as much funding in a large-scale project or seek a voter-approved bond. Councilman Julian Gold said that he supported the project, but was 4 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Small fires blacken hillside Driver who allegedly struck man in alley sought By Edwin FolvEn near Hollywood Cross Los Angeles Police Department West Traffic Division investigators hope security camera footage of two vehicles will help them identify a driver responsible for hitting and killing a man in an east Hollywood alley in September. The case has grown cold and investigators have few leads, photo courtesy of the LAPD Officer Randy Yoshioka said. Security camera footage has been released of two vehicles possibly The victim, who is believed to involved in a fatal hit-and-run collision in September. One vehicle is a have been homeless, was struck and Chrysler PT Cruiser, left, and the other a Toyota Corolla, police said. killed by a vehicle on Sept. 27 in an alley that runs north/south just west of between said he has been searching for clues footage does not show the victim and Council ever since to no avail and hopes the being struck, but Yoshioka said it Street. Officers from the Olympic public will provide a tip. A $50,000 has been determined that the two Division received a report at 11 p.m. reward is available for information vehicles are the only ones that could that there was a person lying in the leading to an arrest and conviction. have been involved. alley. Paramedics took the victim to “It’s been in my hands for a short Because there is an apartment a hospital where he died. The Los period of time. We are hoping building adjacent to the alley, Angeles County Office of Medical someone has information that will Yoshioka surmises that the vehicles Examiner-Coroner identified the help solve this case,” Yoshioka said. may belong to a resident or guest victim as Destin Moore. Yoshioka said security cameras who may have information about The death was initially thought to captured footage of two vehicles who was behind the wheel. It is also photo by Cameron Kiszla be a murder and the case was passing through the alley around the a busy neighborhood where some- Los Angeles Fire Department authorities are investigating the cause assigned to LAPD homicide inves- same time the victim is believed to one may have seen the vehicles of two small brush fires that erupted shortly before midnight on Dec. 5 tigators. The coroner’s office later have been struck. One is a Chrysler leaving, he said. in the Cahuenga Pass. The LAFD received a 911 call at 11:29 p.m. ruled the victim sustained injuries PT Cruiser that was heading north Anyone with information is urged about the fires, which burned a half-acre of hillside near the Hollywood consistent with being struck by a through the alley before exiting on to call Yoshioka at (213)473-0234. Cross, a landmark located above the Ford Theatres. Firefighters extin- vehicle, and the case was trans- Beverly Boulevard. The other vehi- During weekends and off-hours, guished the blazes at 12:22 a.m. and remained at the scene to prevent ferred less than a month ago to the cle is a Toyota Corolla heading call the LAPD’s 24-hour hotline at flare-ups. No injuries were reported and no structures damaged. West Traffic Division. Yoshioka south through the alley. The camera (877)LAPD247.

it or file legal action if payments Angeles is one of six offices nation- were not made. wide participating in the Defendants charged for scheme targeting seniors Each count carries a statutory Transnational Elder Fraud Strike Five men have been indicted on total losses in this case exceed $1 demanding payments, according to maximum sentence of 20 years in Force, a joint law enforcement federal fraud charges alleging they million, the indictment alleges. the indictment, and allegedly federal prison. effort combatting fraud. For infor- ran a million-dollar telemarketing The indictment alleges that from threatened to damage victims’ cred- The U.S. Attorney’s Office in Los mation, visit justice.gov. scam that targeted numerous vic- 2013 to September 2015, the defen- tims, many of them elderly, into dants contacted victims and paying non-existent debts purport- claimed to be from companies such edly owed from magazine subscrip- as “Magazine Readers,” “Global tions. Readers” and “American Reader A federal grand jury returned a Services.” During the telephone 10-count indictment on Dec. 4 that calls, the defendants allegedly charges each of the defendants with claimed that the victims owed conspiracy, as well as nine counts money for magazine subscriptions. of wire fraud. The defendants Participants in the scheme include Ahmad Eraif, 35; allegedly told victims that if they Mohamed Eraif, 37; Jonathan paid the amount owed, their pur- Massouras, 30; William Gampel, ported debts would be satisfied. 29; and Kevin Gampel, 26, all of Instead, the victims’ personal infor- Quebec, Canada. Specific victims mation was collected and stored so identified in the indictment reside their financial accounts could be in Beverly Hills, Granada Hills, charged again. The perpetrators Garden Grove and Ventura. The also made repeated additional calls Man sentenced for starting mall fire A 27-year-old Missouri man dant entered a bookstore at the mall, pleaded no contest on Dec. 3 to set- walked to the children’s section and ting a fire inside the Westfield set books on fire. An employee con- Century City Mall last year, the Los fronted Oates, who pulled out a Angeles County District Attorney’s handgun and confronted the Office announced. employee. Nicholas Kyle Oates entered the Oates then lit additional items in plea to one count each of arson and the store on fire and fled the scene, assault with a firearm, and admitted the prosecutor said. He was found an allegation of personally using a and arrested a day later in Venice. firearm. Deputy District Attorney Joy The case was investigated by the Roberts of the Arson and Explosives Los Angeles Police Department’s Unit said Oates was immediately sen- Major Crimes Division, Criminal tenced to seven years and four Conspiracy Section and the Los months in state prison. Angeles Fire Department Arson On March 15, 2019, the defen- Unit. Van driver sought for hit-and-run Detectives are searching for the southbound from the scene, police driver of a van who allegedly made said. Video surveillance cameras in an illegal U-turn in front of a motor- the area captured footage of the van cyclist on Dec. 7, causing a collision fleeing. The vehicle is described as that claimed the 29-year-old cyclist’s a late 1990s to early 2000s Chevy life. Astro, red or maroon with a cus- The collision occurred at approxi- tomized body. The video can be mately 6:35 a.m. on Glendale viewed by visiting lapdonline.org. Boulevard, just south of Reservoir Anyone with information is urged Street, in Silver Lake. The driver of to call (213)486-0761 or (213)833- the van stopped briefly and then fled 3713. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 5 December 10, 2020 6 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Businesses to reimagine Pride in West Hollywood n Council decides pening in 2021” except for “organ- as well – healing old rifts, whatever ic” celebrations that will be held we need to call it – [may help against consulting safely. Funding for Pride in 2022 ensure] that Pride is going to stay in contract will be included in next year’s bud- West Hollywood, will come back to get discussions by the City Council, West Hollywood,” Erickson said. By cameron kiszla Arevelo added. Mayor Lindsey Horvath, who “That’s hopefully when we’ll be moved the item to “empower the Though Christopher Street West, back to normal,” Arevalo said. business community to take a lead- the nonprofit that produces LA “In understanding the large ership role in having this conversa- Pride, announced plans earlier this amount of money that this was and tion,” said the decision of whether year to leave West Hollywood, the the conversations we’ve had to include CSW should be left to the city plans to continue to host cele- tonight, it’s great to see our local business community. brations of its own. After a unani- community stepping up in that “What we last heard from CSW mous Dec. 7 vote, the responsibility way,” Councilman John Erickson is that they were not interested in of imagining a new Pride celebra- said. being part of the city’s activities and photo by Jon Viscott/courtesy of the city of West Hollywood tion in West Hollywood will fall to Several council members made they were going elsewhere, and The West Hollywood business community will spearhead discussions of the city’s business community. special requests for inclusion in the that’s why we’re having this con- what the future of Pride in the city will look like after Christopher Street City staff had proposed a process. Councilman John versation tonight,” Horvath said. West announced its departure. $216,000 contract with MIG Inc. D’Amico requested that Jeff for “community visioning,” but Consoletti of JJLA, who helped four local business leaders who CSW in organizing LA Pride in spoke during public comment West Hollywood and who spoke argued against awarding the con- during the public comment portion tract to MIG, which has offices pri- of the meeting, be included to offer marily in California – including his expertise. Pasadena and Los Angeles – but “Jeff is such a resource, all of us also in Colorado, Oregon, I think agree, and 2021, whatever Washington and Texas. that looks like, I think he needs to “We implore you to not spend be involved because he would this outrageous amount on an out- understand probably better than side firm when we know this event anyone how to rally a behind-the- intimately and believe the commu- scenes solution to a public-facing nity knows what it wants, and we event,” D’Amico said. just need to figure out how to get Councilwoman Sepi Shyne asked there and make it happen,” said that the city’s Transgender Genevieve Morrill, president and Advisory Board and Lesbian and CEO of the West Hollywood Gay Advisory Board be consulted Chamber of Commerce. as well. Larry Block, who owns the bou- “I want to make sure that the tique Block Party WeHo on Santa business community comes togeth- Monica Boulevard and was a candi- er and they include the Transgender date for City Council in the Nov. 3 Advisory Board and LGAB and election, also pointed out that due to have some kind of interaction with the pandemic, the next couple of them to help form these plans for years of Pride will require flexibili- 2021,” Shyne said. ty of the city in order to adjust to Erickson, a former city staffer, changing conditions and regula- asked that city staff be included in tions. the process, and he also asked that “Today, if we make a commit- CSW be consulted, despite the ment, we’re stuck, and we need to organization’s announced depar- be really limber,” Block said. ture. The council members agreed to “I do think that CSW has been a let the West Hollywood Chamber of valuable partner to our city, and Commerce, city staff, the city’s understanding the ways in which boards and commissions, and resi- JJLA and CSW have been there, dents come together to develop a one of my suggestions to staff was plan for Pride in 2022. City to talk to CSW about that history, Manager Paul Arevalo said the city about how Pride is produced … does not “anticipate anything hap- Involving them in the conversation County launches pilot program for COVID-19 home testing Los Angeles County launched testing for L.A. County under the a new COVID-19 home test col- Department of Health Services. lection program on Dec. 4, which The temporary program will allows certain county residents to use Picture COVID-19, an FDA- do free testing from the comfort approved home collection test of their own homes. developed by Fulgent Genetics The home test collection pro- Inc. For information on how to gram will run through Jan. 15, register, individuals should go to 2021. It aims to help address the the county COVID-19 testing current surge in demand for test- site. If they qualify, Fulgent ing and reduce the spread of Genetics will ship a collection kit COVID-19 during the holiday to their home within two days. season when people may risk Individuals taking the test at exposure. home should follow the direc- Individuals can have testing tions to collect the sample and kits mailed to their home if they take it to a FedEx drop box the have COVID-19 symptoms, same day or have someone take it were recently in close contact to a drop box on their behalf. with someone who has COVID- Individuals will receive the 19 or is suspected of having it, or results by email within two days. are a senior or person with dis- The COVID-19 home test col- abilities who feel they were lection pilot launch comes after exposed to COVID-19, but are Thanksgiving weekend, when unable to go to a testing site. some may have been exposed to “As the surge in cases and hos- COVID-19 while celebrating or pitalizations continues, L.A. shopping. A modified safer-at- County is trying innovative ways home order took effect Monday, to meet the testing demand and Nov. 30, that advises people to stem the community spread of stay at home as much as possible. the virus,” said Dr. Clemens For information, visit Hong, who oversees COVID-19 bit.ly/39VD3tx. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 7 December 10, 2020 WeHo to create social justice task force

By laura coleman and provide policy recommendations According to the staff report, task to address systemic racism. force members are intended to The West Hollywood City Council “I have no doubt that this will reflect the Black, Indigenous and unanimously voted to create a social make West Hollywood even better people of color community mem- justice task force at its Dec. 7 meet- than it already is,” Shyne said. bers who live, work or own busi- ing. The task force, which was initi- Following the vote, which was nesses in West Hollywood. As envi- ated by Mayor Lindsey Horvath and moved to the consent calendar, staff sioned, the task force will include Councilwoman Sepi Shyne, will is now expected to return to the nine-members – one direct appoint- advise the council on social and City Council with a framework for ment from each council member racial equity issues in the community the structure of the task force. and four at-large appointments. In addition to identifying social and racial inequities, the task force is intended to help address and rem- photo by Cameron Kiszla L.A. County launches COVID-19 edy the inequities and systemic West Hollywood’s social justice task force will advise the council on racism that exists in West social and racial equity issues. Community Equity Fund Hollywood by advancing equity, inclusion and diversity, according to bias. Several California cities, wrote. Los Angeles County launched director of Public Health. “This the report. including San Luis Obispo, Santa West Hollywood has a history of the County COVID-19 investment recognizes the need “Compared to other parts of Los Clara and San Rafael, have begun establishing task forces and adviso- Community Equity Fund to help to support new and existing Angeles County, the West to develop similar task forces to ry boards that advocate on behalf of slow the spread of COVID-19 in community-centered interven- Hollywood community is less identify key issues facing their groups or interests. The city’s communities disproportionately tions to combat these injustices racially diverse; however, the num- communities, according to the staff Transgender Advisory Board origi- impacted by the virus. Fifty-one and take action to reduce the ber of Black, Indigenous, and peo- report. nated as the Transgender Task community-based organizations, inequities we are seeing in our ple of color (BIPOC) who live, Two people from the community Force, which advocated for policies or CBOs, will receive funding to communities.” work and own businesses in the city wrote to the council in support of to improve the quality of life for provide a range of services, The Community Equity Fund of West Hollywood continues to the task force. transgender people living, working including outreach, education, is a joint effort by the L.A. increase and represents a significant “I am in support of this item. or visiting the city. case investigation and contact County Department of Health voice within our diverse communi- Hoping council passes this and con- According to the staff report, the tracing. They also will help indi- Services and the L.A. County ty,” the staff report stated. tinues to be a leader in equality. social justice task force will later be viduals who live in hard-hit Department of Public Health in According to the 2019 West This is a much needed effort (glob- evaluated to determine if the com- neighborhoods connect with partnership with Community Hollywood Community Study, the ally) and by passing, the city once munity will be best served by creat- health and social services. Partners, a nonprofit organization percentage of community members again shows the rest of the world ing a permanent advisory board. The goal of the Community that will coordinate with the who identify as non-Hispanic white how to be truly progressive by “I think this task force will get Equity Fund is to reduce the dis- CBOs. The 51 community-based has decreased from 78% in 2010 to looking at how we can continue to involved with our public safety proportionate impact of COVID- organizations were selected 74%. Just over a quarter of the city’s improve and best serve all of our commission as we move forward 19 in L.A. County by partnering because of their experience in population identifies as Black or community,” Jackie Steele wrote. with an item on policing in our with organizations and providing providing culturally and linguis- African American, Asian or Pacific “As our BIPOC population here city,” Councilwoman Lauren them with funding, training and tically appropriate services in Islander, Hispanic/Latino or in WeHo has recently increased, so, Meister said. technical assistance. The organi- historically underserved commu- American Indian or multiracial. hopefully, has our awareness of Staff is expected to return to zations will raise awareness in nities. They also have a demon- Like many cities throughout the social and racial inequities. This council with a more fully developed their communities on how to pre- strated history in advancing equi- country, West Hollywood has been task force can advise us on how to format for the task force, at which vent spreading COVID-19 and ty and experience in outreach and the site of numerous demonstrations be a more inclusive and aware com- time the council will decide will connect residents to health engagement. over the past several months munity, and how to address sys- whether to approve the proposed care, social services and COVID- “Community-based organiza- protesting police brutality and racial temic racism,” Kimberly Copeland structure and make appointments. 19 testing when necessary. Some tions are trusted messengers that will also conduct case investiga- share the ethnicity, language, and tion and contact tracing to inform life experiences of the residents people who have been exposed to they serve,” said Los Angeles or are infected with COVID-19 County Supervisor Hilda Solis, about their risks and the need to 1st District. “I am pleased to see isolate and quarantine. many organizations, with long- “We are thrilled to partner with standing histories of fighting for the Department of Public Health healthcare access, immigrants’ and our trusted community- rights and social justice, serving based organizations in hard-hit as the bridge between care and neighborhoods throughout Los our families in a culturally appro- Angeles County,” said Dr. priate manner.” Christina Ghaly, director of the The CBOs represent the diver- L.A. County Department of sity that is Los Angeles County Health Services. “We believe the and they include health care cen- grassroots effort will help edu- ters, immigrant rights groups, cate our residents, link them to churches and other organizations. much-needed services and help Over the course of the next year, slow the spread of COVID-19.” they will receive funding ranging “We know the neighborhoods from $100,000 to $500,000, as that are highly impacted by well as capacity building, train- COVID-19 are most vulnerable ing and technical assistance. due to historic and present-day For information, visit inequities,” said Barbara Ferrer, covid19.lacounty.gov. L.A. LGBT Centers mourns transgender rights advocate In response to the reported mur- person this year and reflects the der of Yuni Carey, a trans Latina larger epidemic of violence against woman with deep ties to the Los the transgender community, which Angeles transgender community, disproportionately impacts Latina the Los Angeles LGBT Center and Black trans women. issued a statement last month. “Unfortunately, domestic violence “Our community is once again remains far too prevalent across mourning the loss of one of our society – with transgender people at own, Yuni Carey. It is being report- increased risk – of which the conse- ed that she was murdered by her quences can be deadly,” the state- partner in Miami on Tuesday, Nov. ment added. “The center’s STOP 17,” the statement said. “Yuni grew Violence Program – (323)860-5806 up in our community and went – and Legal Advocacy Project for from someone who struggled at a Survivors – (323)993-7649 – offer young age to growing into a leader specialized domestic violence ser- and advocate on behalf of the trans- vices in multiple languages for our gender community who was inten- community. Please reach out to us if tional in bringing voice to the trans you are struggling in an abusive sit- Latina experience. Her death marks uation. We are here to help.” the 37th known murder of a trans- For information, visit lalgbtcen- gender or gender nonconforming ter.org. 8 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Homeless families move into Homekey site Blankets collected to help Mayor Eric Garcetti and Council where to rest their heads and focus “Many of these families come from President Nury Martinez on keeping themselves, their fami- our motels, where we are actively announced on Dec. 2 that 40 local lies and our communities healthy.” providing educational assistance to unhoused community families experiencing homeless- With a commitment to those families and children experiencing ness are moving into Parthenia most in need, Martinez and the City homelessness. Motels may provide Place – a new apartment complex Council have dedicated $200 mil- shelter, but they are not conducive and the city’s first Homekey site, lion in CARES Act funding for for families, especially for growing located in Martinez’ Council those experiencing homelessness. children suffering through a jolting District 6. In partnership with the Working with the mayor and and confusing experience. The Los Housing Authority of the city of HACLA, Martinez helped leverage Angeles City Council is committed Los Angeles and LA Family this commitment with the larger to working with our local, state and Housing, this marks the next phase Homekey effort. federal partners to do what it takes in the city and state’s effort to bring The opening of Parthenia Place is to secure housing quicker and more unsheltered residents indoors and the first of 15 properties featuring efficiently for all in need.” protect unhoused Californians in more than 750 units and rooms for LAFH will provide on-site sup- the face of COVID-19. the unhoused. These were purchased port services to promote Parthenia “Our neighbors sleeping on the with funds from the state’s Homekey Place residents’ housing stability streets face a heightened risk of Program and matched with city of and family well-being, as well as exposure to illness and death, and Los Angeles’ CARES Act funding case management to help these this pandemic has added another approved by the City Council or families fully integrate into perma- photo courtesy of LASAN measure of danger and threat to financing contributed by HACLA. nent supportive housing. In the The “Spread the Warmth” blanket drive, organized by L.A. their health and lives,” Garcetti “I could not be happier for these months ahead, LAFH will be man- Sanitation and Environment during the month of October, collected said. “Parthenia Place is exactly 40 families who finally have a aging a total of five new Homekey nearly 1,500 items donated by the public and city employees at 11 what our state had in mind when it place to call home in a brand-new sites, a mix of interim and perma- locations around Los Angeles. launched Homekey: a safe, perma- apartment complex in Council nent supportive housing. Donations included blankets, sheets, comforters, sleeping bags, nent home for our most vulnerable District 6 and the first Project For information, visit towels and pillows, which are increasingly important as L.A.’s nights Angelenos – a place where they can Homekey site to open in the city of hcd.ca.gov/grants-funding/active- get longer and colder. The items collected will be distributed to the shed the burden of finding some- Los Angeles,” Martinez said. funding/homekey.shtml. unsheltered community through the Cleaning and Rapid Engagement program, which is overseen by LASAN’s Livability and Services Division. “I want to thank our fellow Angelenos for their incredible generos- Biologist to direct hematology at Cedars-Sinai ity,” LASAN Director and General Manager Enrique C. Zaldivar said. “I know the items received will be greatly appreciated. I also Internationally recognized hema- want to thank the LASAN staff who worked hard to make this drive tologist Dr. John P. Chute has been a great success.” selected to direct the Division of LASAN’s CARE program regularly provides mobile hygiene ser- Hematology and Cellular Therapy vices, tent exchanges, clothing and hygiene kits to unhoused in the Department of Medicine at Angelenos and, in partnership with the L.A. Fire Department, Cedars-Sinai Cancer. The physi- COVID testing. cian-scientist also will serve as For information, visit bpw.lacity.org. director of the Center for Myelodysplastic Diseases Research and associate director of the Board of Governors Regenerative Notable quotes Medicine Institute in the Department of Biomedical “If you can walk away from a landing, it’s a good landing. If you use Sciences. Chute assumed his new the same airplane the next day, it’s an outstanding landing.” post on Nov. 23. photo courtesy of Cedars-Sinai The selection of Chute reflects Brig. Gen. Charles “Chuck” Yeager, USAF Dr. John Chute has been selected to direct the Division of Hematology and the importance of his research in 1923-2020 blood-forming stem cells called Cellular Therapy in the Department of Medicine at Cedars-Sinai Cancer. hematopoietic stem cells, which can self-renew and generate all cell where they multiply and attack physicians at the cancer center,” tumor cells. Chute added. “Cedars-Sinai has Chuck Yeager died this week at age 97. He was a WWII flying ace, types found in the blood and test pilot and the first human to break the sound barrier aboard the Bell immune system. Over the past “CAR T therapy has become an always been a leading medical cen- important treatment option for so ter and is deeply committed to basic X-1 experimental supersonic aircraft. decade, Chute’s lab has discovered several growth factors produced by many patients with advanced can- and translational research, while (source: “Bartlett’s Familiar Quotations”) the cells that line the walls of blood cer who had no options before,” also growing the hematology and vessels; they play a critical role in Chute said. “That’s what makes cellular therapy specialties. I’m blood-forming stem cell regenera- CAR T therapy so exciting.” eager to play a leading role in that tion. “I’m excited to join the Cedars- growth.” NOTICE OF “Dr. Chute is an exceptional addi- Sinai Cancer faculty because of the Cedars-Sinai is located at 8700 tion to our faculty,” said Dr. Dan opportunity to collaborate with the Beverly Blvd. For information, visit NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY Theodorescu, director of Cedars- world-class scientists and top-tier cedars-sinai.org. Sinai Cancer. “His international AS TO STUDENTS reputation as a physician-scientist who has made major contributions PAGE ACADEMY admits students of any race, color, to stem cell and hematopoietic cell national and ethnic origin to all rights, privileges, pro- biology will greatly contribute to grams and activities generally accorded or made positioning the newly created Division of Hematology and Cell available to students at the school. It does not dis- Therapy as one of the best in the criminate on the basis of race, color, national and eth- nation, while providing Cedars- nic origin in administration of its educational policies, Sinai Cancer patients with exciting admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, new options for the treatment of blood malignancies.” and athletic and other school administered programs. In addition to his hematopoietic stem cell research, Chute said he PAGE ACADEMY looks forward to expanding Cedars- Sinai’s CAR T-cell research and Hancock Park Campus therapy. He describes the immune- boosting therapeutic as “transfor- 565 North Larchmont Blvd. mative” for patients with advanced Los Angeles, CA 90004 non-Hodgkin lymphoma, child- Kramer Law Group 323-463-5118 hood acute lymphoblastic leukemia and potentially several additional blood cancers. Beverly Hills Campus CAR T-cell therapy is a type of 419 South Robertson Blvd. immunotherapy in which patients’ Beverly Hills, CA 90211 own immune cells, called T cells, 323-272-3429 are collected from their blood, and then an artificial receptor – chimeric antigen receptor, or CAR Newport Mesa Campus – is added to the cells’ surface. The Stephen W. Kramer 657 Victoria Street receptor enables the modified cells 5858 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 205 Costa Mesa, CA 92627 to specifically eradicate cancer 949-642-0411 cells. The cells are infused back into Los Angeles, CA 90036 • (323)964-7100 a patient’s body intravenously, www.kramerlaw.biz Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 9 December 10, 2020 Out with the old, in with the new in WeHo n on the council, city commissioners “Listen to them carefully, and Two new council and residents when delivering their then do what you think is right, members are sworn in farewell addresses. even if it’s not popular. In a commu- “It’s really been one of the great- nity that’s often passionate, divided By Cameron Kiszla est chapters of my life to serve this and polarized, if you try to evaluate community for the past 20 years,” issues based upon the heat and the The Dec. 7 West Hollywood City Duran said. energy in the room, you’ll end up Council meeting was a changing of “I love this city so much. It has satisfying no one and losing people the guard, as Councilman John been an honor to be a part of it, and on both sides of any issue. Stick to Erickson and Councilwoman Sepi I will continue to serve it, just in a your values, bring people along. Shyne took their oaths of office and different capacity,” Heilman said. Patience is truly a virtue, and you’ll long-serving Councilmen John The outgoing council members have many years to put patience Duran and John Heilman said their also offered advice and perspective into practice,” Duran said. goodbyes. to Shyne and Erickson as they pre- In their first speeches given as photo courtesy of Sepi Shyne and John Erickson The council also unanimously pared to assume their roles. council members, Shyne and Sepi Shyne, left, and John Erickson participated in their first City Council chose Councilwoman Lauren “I hope you find your service Erickson were also full of praise for meeting on Dec. 7. Outgoing Councilmen John Heilman and John Duran the city’s residents and staff. Shyne, Meister to serve as mayor pro tem- half as rewarding as I have. I’m also reflected on their years of service. pore, a role that was held by sure you’re going to enjoy it, and I who noted that with her election, Heilman. Meister will be installed look forward to seeing the the council will be majority female, as mayor pro tempore on Dec. 21, improvements that you’re going to spoke not only to her supporters, “Today’s celebration would not while “I didn’t imagine I’d be tak- and she will serve until May 17, make for our community,” Heilman but all residents. She also highlight- be possible without the amazing ing an oath or giving these remarks 2021. said. ed some of her top priorities, residents of West Hollywood, who from my bedroom” due to the pan- Duran, who served on the coun- Duran encouraged his successors including more assistance for local turned out in record numbers and demic, he was excited to help ease cil for five terms, and Heilman, to rely on city staff and to field businesses during the pandemic and placed their faith in me to lead this the stresses of the pandemic on who served all but a few months input from community members, her plan to create a social justice city with a bold vision for the West Hollywood residents. since the city’s founding in 1984, but to ultimately make their own task force, which was approved future. For every resident out there “We will get through this time praised city staff, their colleagues decisions. later that evening. whose votes I couldn’t and did not and come out better, because we earn, I look forward to representing discovered just how together we you as well for the next four years have been throughout this pandem- on City Council … I am honored to ic and how much closer we are as a serve as your council woman, and result. I promise each and every one WeHo awards grants to support arts programs the work starts tonight,” Shyne of you I will work every single day The West Hollywood City The recipients of Arts Project Ryan McCann, Felice Picano, and said. to make your lives better. If you Council approved $124,000 in Grants for the production, perfor- Don Tinling. Erickson, who worked as a mem- know a little bit about me, you grants for 22 artists and arts organi- mance or presentation of new virtu- For information, visit ber of city staff, as a council deputy know I don’t make promises I can’t zations on Dec. 7 as part of the al art projects are Brockus Project weho.org/Home/Components/Calen and as a city planning commission- keep. Now, let’s get to work,” 2021. Dance Company, Celebration dar/Event/22729/15. er before his election, noted that Erickson said. West Hollywood’s Arts Grant Productions Corporation, Heidi Program was established in 1997 to Duckler Dance Grand Perfor- provide funding and support for mances, Invertigo Dance Theatre, artists and arts organizations. MashUp Contemporary and Vox Recipients undergo a thorough, fair Femina Los Angeles. One City One and equitable review process Pride LGBTQ Arts Festival Grants reflecting the diversity of West were awarded to Betsy Kalin; New Hollywood. Stages, a program of Oasis Theater Due to the COVID-19 pandemic Company; Alliance of Los Angeles and safeguards for health and safety, Playwrights; Brian Sonia- arts programs will likely be present- Wallace/Pride Poets; and Friends of ed in a virtual environment for at Residential Treasures L.A. least the next year. It provides a The City Council awarded unique opportunity for West Organizational Development Hollywood artists and nonprofit arts Grants to Arts Bridging the Gap, organizations funded through the No Easy Props, Prism Comics, and program to reach beyond the city’s Wordsville/QueerWise. geographic borders with online pro- Transgender Arts Initiative gramming, city leaders said. Grants were given to Andre The city of West Hollywood Keichian, Natalie Nicole Dressel, received 52 arts grant applications Flynn Namala, Kase Peña, Beth representing a variety of arts disci- Morrison Projects and Yozmit plines and project proposals for the Kwon. 2021 Arts Grant Program. Arts To celebrate the city’s contribu- grant awards are for varying tions to the arts, the city will host a amounts, and they include funding virtual presentation today, Dec. 10, for creation of new arts projects, at 4 p.m. including a Q&A session individual artists and organizational with artists Carolyn Campbell, development. Fletcher Crossman, Carolina Hoyos, Hollywood chamber’s entertainment conference to be held virtually The Hollywood Chamber of Production During COVID” pre- Commerce will hold its 2020 State sented by FilmLA, and “Blazing the of the Entertainment Industry Trail in Diversity, Equality and Conference presented by Variety as Inclusion” hosted by the Southern a virtual event on Wednesday, Dec. California Gas Company. 16. The half-day conference will “We are thrilled to have such start with networking at 8:30 a.m., incredible talent supporting our con- followed by a full program running ference this year,” Hollywood through noon. Chamber of Commerce President Actress Eva Longoria and song- and CEO Rana Ghadban said. “Eva writer Diane Warren will be hon- is not only an actor and producer, ored. Longoria will receive the 2020 she is arguably one of most instru- Commitment to California Award mental activists for the Latin com- for keeping projects in the state and munity. Diane Warren continues to generating business. The conference set records in the music and motion will include the presentation of the picture industry and now in music 2020 Music Icon Award and publishing. And, we could not ask keynote conversation with Warren, for a better fit than Eugenio Derbez whose songs have been featured in to present Meruelo Enterprises with more than 100 movies, resulting in our first-ever Excellence in 11 Academy Award nominations. Diversity Award.” The virtual conference also Admission is $60 for members, includes panel discussions, includ- $75 for nonmembers. To register, ing “Succeeding in Entertainment visit hollywoodchamber.net/events. 10 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press O’Farrell extends a lifeline to small theaters n Plan calls for fund Duffy added that optimism is between El Centro and Las Palmas naturally ingrained in theater avenues and includes approximate- to be created for artists, and he remains hopeful the ly 20 stages. Most are small venues emergency relief curtain will soon rise again. A with 99 seats or less. source of that optimism is a new Daniel Henning, founding artis- By Edwin FolvEn live theater COVID-19 emergency tic director for the Blank Theatre at grant fund under consideration by 6500 Santa Monica Blvd., also said The beginning of March was an the Los Angeles City Council. the pandemic has presented many exciting time for the Sacred Fools Introduced by Councilman challenges, particularly for the Theater Company, which operates Mitch O’Farrell, the $130,000 fund Theatre Row District. He worked the Broadwater theater complex at will help live performance venues, with O’Farrell and others to get the and Lilian rehearsal spaces, rental equipment district established, and has lobbied Way in Hollywood. The new play businesses and others related to the- for the new live theater emergency “Antigone Presented by the Girls of aters in the 13th District with oper- relief fund. He said the Blank St. Catherine’s” opened on March ating expenses during the COVID- Theatre is stable but remains closed 6, and everyone in the cast and pro- 19 pandemic. Recipients would with an uncertain future. He wor- duction crew was upbeat and opti- receive up to $5,000. The funds ried about some of the other small- mistic, managing director Padraic will come from arts development er spaces that may not have the Duffy said. fees paid by developers when pro- ability to turn to other sources of Then the coronavirus changed jects are approved. income. photo by Cameron Kiszla everything. Like countless other “Due to the COVID-19 pandem- “The theater world never thrives. The Blank Theatre at Santa Monica Boulevard and Wilcox Avenue is businesses, the theater complex ic, public health guidelines have If you look at it from sort of a cap- one of the small venues in the Theatre Row District that remains closed with four stages was forced to sus- closed theaters across the city, lim- italistic standpoint, it’s a loss leader. due to public health orders. pend production, close its doors ited filming and banned large gath- That’s why nonprofits exist, that’s and furlough employees. Months erings,” O’Farrell said. “These why people make donations to keep passed before there was any glim- major disruptions have led to mass the arts alive. Art just doesn’t bring “I have great concerns of how the save jobs, which is what it comes mer of hope, Duffy added. layoffs and can potentially elimi- in the same kind of money that live theater community will evolve down to,” Ghadban said. “Just like “We had done one week of the nate an entire and highly valued commerce does, so we’re always at without a current source of revenue any other business, the impact of new show and then we had to close. small theater industry if urgent a disadvantage,” Henning said. as a result of the safer-at-home COVID has been devastating. We For five months, we were com- action is not taken. Many theaters “Many people can eke out their liv- order,” he said. “This grant program want to make sure theaters have the pletely shuttered,” Duffy said. “In and their support services survive ings by renting theaters or by doing is much appreciated, and I am support they need to survive this the last few months, we came back month to month. Without the rev- what they do, but it’s meager at grateful I was able to lend my voice pandemic and be able to reopen. We on a limited basis just for filming enue from shows, classes, rentals best.” to the conversation with all look forward to the curtains and things like that, but now we and ticket sales, these professional Henning added that the Councilmember O’Farrell to get reopening once more in shut down again. Like most theater theaters could permanently close Hollywood Fringe Festival – one of this program started. This will help Hollywood.” companies, we closed and thought their doors.” the biggest events of the year for so many of us who are struggling to O’Farrell’s motion instructs the we would be back in three weeks. The funds will be particularly the Theatre Row District – was can- keep live theater going during the Los Angeles Department of Part of the problem is trying to plan important to the many small the- celled in June because of COVID- pandemic.” Cultural Affairs and the Los for the future, and trying to pay aters in the Theatre Row District, 19 and plans are uncertain about the The new fund is also supported Angeles City Attorney’s Office to your bills when you don’t know which was officially dedicated in 2021 festival. Some theaters use by the Hollywood Chamber of develop guidelines for an emer- when revenues will come again. 2015 by O’Farrell and then- revenues from rentals during the Commerce, which is concerned gency fund benefitting live perfor- So, it’s trying to piece together dif- Councilman Tom LaBonge, 4th Hollywood Fringe Festival to sus- about the future of an industry that mance spaces. It is anticipated the ferent grants and relief funds to sur- District. The district is located tain them for the rest of the year, is part of the fabric of Hollywood, grants will be for venues with 50 or vive.” along Santa Monica Boulevard Henning added. President and CEO Rana Ghadban fewer employees. said. The motion was referred to the “The Hollywood Chamber of Health, Education, Neighborhoods, Commerce wholeheartedly endors- Parks, Arts and River Committee Food service workers eligible for relief fund program es Councilman O’Farrell’s emer- and is expected to come back to the gency program grant initiative. We full City Council in the coming Los Angeles Mayor Eric The COVID-19 pandemic has charges at 5%. The city also appreciate his help in helping us weeks. Garcetti has launched the Secure dealt a devastating blow to work- launched an $11 million economic Emergency Relief for Vulnerable ers, including servers, wait staff, relief package for small businesses Employees initiative, a new part- cooks and others in Los Angeles’ impacted by COVID-19. nership between the mayor’s office food service industry, Garcetti To qualify for the new program, and the Mayor’s Fund for Los said. Recent protocols put in place applicants must reside in Los Angeles, to provide 4,000 local by the L.A. County Department of Angeles, be 18 or older, have an food-service workers with a one- Public Health suspending outdoor annual income in 2019 of $58,450 time $800 stipend. dining at restaurants, breweries, or below prior to the COVID-19 “Employees in our food-service wineries and bars has left many crisis, and demonstrate economic industry have had to make painful employees in need of immediate hardship due to a job loss or at least sacrifices – and we have to do aid, he added. a 50% reduction in income at a everything possible to support SERVE is one of many pro- food service establishment. them through this time of econom- grams developed by Garcetti and Employees of restaurants, food ic upheaval,” Garcetti said. the city of L.A. to support residents stands, food trucks and push carts, “SERVE is designed to deliver who have received limited assis- breweries, wineries and bars that relief and a little peace of mind to tance from the federal government serve food on the premises are eli- some of our most vulnerable work- during the COVID-19 pandemic. gible. Recipients with confirmed ers – giving thousands of To help ease the financial burden eligibility will be selected and cho- Angelenos a vital lifeline, putting faced by food-service workers, an sen from a randomized list. money in their pockets to pay the ordinance was signed into law lim- Applications will close at midnight bills and upholding our promise to iting delivery app charges to on Friday, Dec. 11. get through this unprecedented restaurants – capping delivery fees For information, visit coron- moment together.” to 15% and all other non-delivery avirus.lacity.org/serve. Governor announces new grants, help for businesses Gov. Gavin Newsom recently $12.5 million, bringing the total next month as we continue partner- announced that California will pro- investment to $37.5 million. The ing with the Legislature to secure vide temporary tax relief for eligible programs were implemented based additional funding and investments businesses impacted by COVID-19 on recommendations by the in small businesses in the new restrictions. The temporary tax Governor’s Task Force on Business year.” relief entails an automatic three- and Jobs Recovery. The COVID-19 pandemic has month income tax extension for tax- “California’s small businesses presented a significant challenge to payers filing less than $1 million in embody the best of the California small businesses, employers and sales tax, extends the availability of Dream and we can’t let this pan- employees. A survey in August existing interest and penalty-free demic take that away,” Newsom found that 44% of small businesses payment agreements to companies said. “We have to lead with health are at risk of closing. Data released with up to $5 million in taxable to reopen our economy safely and through the Census Current sales, and provides expanded inter- sustainably while doing all we can Population Survey found that est free payment options for larger to keep our small businesses afloat. minority-owned businesses are dis- businesses affected by restrictions With this financial assistance and proportionately impacted. on operations. tax relief, California is stepping up Grants from the new small busi- The state also launched a new where the federal government isn’t. ness program are expected to be dis- $500 million COVID Relief Grant By providing potentially billions in tributed in early 2021. program and will expand the immediate relief and support, our For information, visit California Rebuilding Fund by small businesses can weather the business.ca.gov. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 11 December 10, 2020 Subway work continues at many sites along route Metro has announced that the may be inter- lanes of the intersection of next lunchtime webinar for Purple mittently reduced to a single lane in Wilshire/San Vicente is anticipated Line Extension subway construc- each direction. to be in place through the end of tion will be held on Wednesday, Hauling, deliveries and tunneling December. The enclosure supports Jan. 13, from noon to 1 p.m., via support is ongoing near Wilshire/La ongoing tunnel and mitigation work Zoom. Brea and Wilshire/Sycamore. underneath Wilshire Boulevard. All The webinar will include updates Orange Drive remains closed north left turns are restricted. on sections of the project running of Wilshire Boulevard. Access to Subway station construction, from Wilshire/Western to Century businesses in the area has been material deliveries, instrumentation City, including portions in the city maintained. and concrete pouring also continues of Beverly Hills. To join, call Through Saturday, Feb. 27, at Wilshire/La Cienega. Eastbound (888)788-0099, and use the ID: 955 Wilshire Boulevard will be reduced Wilshire Boulevard may be inter- 7708 4809. to two lanes in each direction mittently reduced to one lane from Work continues at many loca- between Detroit and June streets. 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and 8 p.m. to 7 tions along the route underneath Intermittent lane closures on a.m., as needed. The lane reduction Wilshire Boulevard. Metro recently Wilshire Boulevard and side streets may also be used on Saturdays from announced that a K-rail enclosure between Highland Avenue and 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Gale Drive will also has been implemented at Wilshire Detroit Street may also be in place be intermittently closed at Wilshire photo by Edwin Folven and Plymouth boulevards and will from 6 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday Boulevard to support construction. Orange Drive remains closed north of Wilshire Boulevard, where support be in place for one year. Wilshire through Friday. Excavation continues at for subway station construction continues through decking on the road- Boulevard will be reduced to two Near Wilshire/Fairfax, station Wilshire/Rodeo, where crews are way surface. lanes in each direction between construction, hauling and concrete anticipated to reach a final depth of and Muirfield pouring are also ongoing. 100 feet during the first quarter of Road. Left turns will be restricted Intermittent lane closures may be in 2021. will be reduced to one lane in each hours are weekdays from 7 a.m. to 4 from westbound Wilshire to south- place. Ogden Drive will be closed New hauling hours for removing direction between El Camino and p.m. for work on Wilshire bound Plymouth Boulevard. Work intermittently at Wilshire soil have been announced. From Crescent drives, when excavation Boulevard, and weekdays from 8 will occur 24 hours in the enclo- Boulevard and Orange Grove 10:45 a.m. to 4 p.m., two lanes will will occur through deck openings a.m. to 4 p.m. in the neighborhoods sure. Avenue remains closed south of be open in each direction on along Wilshire Boulevard at Canon surrounding Wilshire Boulevard. Construction is also occurring Wilshire Boulevard. Wilshire Boulevard between El Dive, and just west of Beverly For questions and concerns, call five blocks west at A K-Rail work zone has been Camino and Crescent Drive to Drive. Ground monitoring instru- the 24-hour project hotline at Wilshire/Rimpau. A K-rail work installed at the southwest corner of accommodate soil removal from the ments are also being installed along (213)922-6934, email the project zone on the west side of the inter- Wilshire Boulevard and Fairfax Reeves staging yard. From midnight the tunnel alignment and around the team at [email protected], or section of Wilshire and Rimpau Avenue, where concrete and mater- to 10:45 a.m., Wilshire Boulevard Wilshire/Rodeo station. New work visit metro.net. boulevards will be in place through ial deliveries are occurring. next May. Wilshire Boulevard has Wilshire Boulevard will be reduced been reduced to two lanes in each to two lanes in each direction direction between June Street and between San Diego Way and Muirfield Road. Concrete and Spaulding Avenue through next material deliveries are anticipated August. to continue at the site in December. A K-rail enclosure in the center

Allen outlines upcoming priorities in the Legislature during pandemic At the start of the 2021-2022 leg- need; and assisting businesses islative session, state Sen. Ben struggling to stay afloat.” Allen (D-Santa Monica) outlined Allen added that he will continue priorities for what he called “diffi- to focus on environmental protec- cult times.” tion, climate, improved election “With the COVID-19 vaccine on systems, political transparency its way, there is a light at the end of reforms and housing. the tunnel. However, the medical, “I’ve introduced several bills in epidemiological, psychological these policy areas and will intro- and economic consequences of this duce several more in the weeks crisis continue to be alarmingly ahead, and will be convening and dire. We must get through this pan- participating in a number of infor- demic and fully restart our econo- mational and oversight hearings my again as quickly as possible,” focused on these and other pressing Allen said. “With that in mind, I’m matters,” Allen added. working on a number of issues Allen also highlighted successes with some of my legislative col- with the state’s new voting system. leagues: relief for renters; smart, “As the author of the Voter’s neighborhood-friendly ways to Choice Act of 2016, I was heart- improve housing availability; find- ened to see how Californians bene- ing new solutions to the homeless fitted from our flexible new voting crisis; ensuring efficacy and system and made their voices heard accountability for efforts to fight despite the overwhelming chal- homelessness; learning from the lenges of the pandemic,” he said. mistakes of the Employment “We will study the election closely Development Department and and make needed modifications to improving and streamlining the ensure that Californians can vote system; working to get more safely, securely, and conveniently money out to deserving folks in in the years to come.” Lawmakers consider improvements to emergency preparedness plans Assemblywoman Luz Rivas, deficiencies. chair of the Joint Legislative Rivas was joined by state Sen. Committee on Emergency Mike McGuire, who serves as vice Management, convened a recent chairman of the committee, as well hearing to discuss emergency pre- as representatives from the paredness and alerts during the Governor’s Office of Emergency COVID-19 pandemic. Services, Cal FIRE, law enforce- The hearing addressed issues with ment and local leaders at the hearing. the state’s fragmented emergency The lawmakers are reviewing emer- alert systems, low resident sign-up gency alerts and evacuation plans rates, consequences of neglecting during the pandemic as well as test- emergency and evacuation warning ing and protections for emergency systems, and emergency notification personnel. 12 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Schiff, California colleagues COVID-19 tests available at Cedars-Sinai With the coronavirus spreading seek assistance for wildfires rapidly through Los Angeles County, Cedars-Sinai Medical U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff (CA- brave firefighters who work to Center has launched a new option 28) and 28 members of the save lives and homes from out- for COVID-19 testing by appoint- California delegation on Dec. 3 of-control blazes,” the represen- ment at its urgent care locations, sent a letter to Christopher tatives wrote in the letter. with results available within 48-72 Miller, acting secretary of the FireGuard, which plays an hours. A doctor’s referral is not Department of Defense, request- important role in fire detection needed, and individuals getting test- ing the department continue and surveillance, provides near- ed do not need to be a Cedars-Sinai assisting California and other real-time information on suspect- patient prior to booking a testing states in their efforts to combat ed wildfires, relying on analysis appointment. wildfires. from the National Guard. If the “We have expanded our testing Specifically, the letter requests DOD does not extend the pro- options in an effort to support our that the department continue to gram by Dec. 15, states will be patients and the community by giv- photo courtesy of Cedars-Sinai operate two programs that pro- required to pay for the program ing them access to high-quality test- Temperature checks and screenings for all patients and visitors are vide important operational sup- using their state budgets. ing when they need it,” Cedars- among the precautions at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. port to CAL FIRE and the In September, the DOD also Sinai Medical Network Chief National Guard. ended development of AI algo- Medical Officer Caroline toms, and this should be taken into this time period.” “As we near the end of one of rithms that help speed up the cre- Goldzweig said. “We wanted to account when scheduling a test. For Goldzweig also noted that while the worst fire seasons on record, ation of fire maps based on drone expand access especially for front- example, if an individual wants to the PCR testing technology is gen- DOD’s unique capabilities are footage. The relevant AI tool is line workers such as grocery store be tested because they live with erally the most reliable for detect- sorely needed now and in the being used now by the California employees, first responders or any someone who developed COVID- ing the presence of COVID-19, it is coming years to augment the National Guard. essential worker whose job puts 19, the ideal testing time would be not perfect. Some patients who test them in close contact with others.” two to five days after the infected negative may still have the illness, Cedars-Sinai Urgent Care uses person’s symptoms began, or after but when patients test positive, it is PCR (polymerase chain reaction) the date of the positive test. For almost always a true positive result. State launches app to warn COVID-19 tests, with a nasopha- someone who is worried about a Testing is available to adults and ryngeal swab to collect a sample potential exposure, it’s best to wait children ages 2 and older. People about possible virus exposure from patients. until at least four days to get tested. under 18 must be accompanied by a If an individual thinks they may “When you’re asymptomatic, parent or legal guardian. The state of California will scalable system so all people living have been exposed to someone with timing is everything,” Goldzweig All individuals being tested launch a new digital tool today, in California have another means of suspected or confirmed COVID-19, said. should feel safe visiting Cedars- Dec. 10, to help reduce the trans- being informed of potential expo- the best time to take the test is four However, timing is less crucial Sinai’s urgent care locations due to mission of COVID-19. Using CA sures as quickly as possible,” said to seven days after exposure. The for essential workers and others the safety measures the clinics Notify, residents can choose to Dr. Carrie L. Byington, executive Centers for Disease Control and who are concerned about exposure observe to ensure the health and receive COVID-19 notifications vice president of University of Prevention defines an exposure as in general. safety of patients and staff. All informing them if they have been California Health and an infectious unmasked contact within six feet of “It’s also critical to remember patients, visitors and staff are exposed to someone who has tested disease expert. “We are glad that a person known or suspected of that a negative test in an asympto- screened upon arrival and everyone positive for the virus. University of California Health having COVID-19 for more than 15 matic person does not guarantee is required to sanitize their hands CA Notify was developed in part- could be a resource for the pilot minutes, cumulative over the course that you do not have COVID-19,” and wear a mask. nership with Google and Apple and testing and now for the manage- of a 24-hour period. Goldzweig added. “The incubation To schedule a COVID-19 test or tested in a pilot program with the ment of the expansion.” People with COVID-19 are likely period can last 14 days and it’s pos- for information, visit cedars- University California, San Diego, For information, visit infectious beginning approximately sible you could develop symptoms sinai.org/programs/urgent- and the University of California, canotify.ca.gov and covid19.ca.gov. two days prior to the onset of symp- or even test positive later during care.html. San Francisco. It does not collect device location to detect exposure and does not share user identities. “Throughout this pandemic we Potato Pancakes have tapped California’s talent pool to fight this virus and that includes working with tech innovators like or Latkes... Apple and Google,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said. “CA Notify will help Make Your Holidays slow the spread by alerting those who opt in to receive an alert if they’ve come into contact with Merry & Bright! someone who has tested positive. Party Paper Goods, Decorations, Garland, The process is private, anonymous and secure, and is one of the many Yard Lights, Christmas Lights, Plastic Yard Decorations, tools in the state’s data-driven approach to help reduce the spread.” Santa Hats & Stockings, Balloons, Giftwrap, Bows, Users can enable the system in Ribbons, Centerpieces, Banners & More! their iPhone settings or on Android phones by downloading the CA Notify app from the Google Play All the Decorations Store. When individuals voluntarily activate CA Notify, the tool uses you need to make Bluetooth technology to exchange your 8 Days random codes between phones without revealing the user’s identity Memorable! or location. If a CA Notify user tests Whatever you call them, positive for COVID-19, they will receive a verification code to plug we call them delicious! Ring in the into the app, if they choose. Any other CA Notify users who have New Year been within 6 feet for 15 minutes or Happy Hanukkah! more of the COVID-19 positive in style! individual will get an anonymous Phone in an order and notification of possible exposure. Party Favors, Horns, CA Notify will accelerate how we’ll have it ready for pick up! Hats & More! quickly people get notified of a pos- sible COVID-19 exposure, provid- Or get it delivered through Postmates! Shop early to avoid standing in line! ing information needed to make Our deli, bakery and all We are following the guidelines of wearing a mask and responsible decisions about quaran- reduced number of shoppers at a time. tine and testing. Users who have of your favorites are available! tested positive for COVID-19 will Thank you for your patronage! get a text from the California Department of Public Health at 10% off all merchandise in the store (855)976-8462 with a code that can Since 1931 with this coupon! • exp 12/31/20 be entered into CA Notify trigger- discounted merchandise, balloons and balloon delivery excluded ing an alert to phones of people who may have been exposed in the pre- vious 14 days. “With the rapid surge of COVID- 19 cases, we need every tool possi- World Famous, Award Winning Restaurant • Deli • Bakery • Bar ble to protect our communities. We applaud the state for expanding this 419 N. Fairfax Ave. (323) 651-2030 5969 Melrose Ave. • (corner of Wilcox) • (323)467-7124 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 13 December 10, 2020 Farmers Market is ready to fulfill all holiday needs The Original Farmers Market, corner of Third and Fairfax, is the perfect place to get all the holiday essentials while supporting local businesses – all in one location. The market’s merchants offer simple and creative solutions for gifting and holiday meals to-go, with many pro- viding curbside pickup or delivery via mercato.com. For in-person holiday shopping, the market remains a safe and easy photo courtesy of the First-In Fire Foundation option with no lines, an open-air Manager Theresa Le Phung is proud to sell books supporting the environment, convenient outdoor First-In Fire Foundation. postal center, and strict sanitation and safety standards. Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market is stocked with an assort- ment of gifts and treats. Enjoy spe- photo courtesy of the Original Farmers Market First-In Fire program helps cialty items such as authentic Italian panettone and pandoro, handmade rots, green bean almondine, sweet ing aromatherapy oils, soaps and artisan German stollen, and a French potatoes topped with marshmal- lotions. Wildflora and Dewy businesses and firefighters Pain D’epices Holiday Celebration lows, cranberry sauce, dinner rolls Flowers offer holiday floral arrange- The statewide safer-at-home pleased to sell books for the foun- Spice Cake. Classic British items and a Du-par’s fruit pie. Sides and ments, and Kip’s Toyland is the order has accelerated the First-In dation’s first Firehouse Library,” like figgy pudding, mincemeat pie, pies are also available à la carte. place for classic toys – also offering Fire Foundation’s expansion, manager Theresa Le Phung said. brandy and rum butters and clotted Holiday pies are $15.95 and include free gift wrapping. including the launch of the new “Programs like this help at this cream are also available. Guests can cherry, blueberry, pumpkin, peach, And, pickle fans are in luck with Firehouse Library effort in part- holiday time to boost firefighters’ pre-order Buche de Noel Yule Logs boysenberry, apple, raspberry and artisan pickle purveyor Kaylin and nership with Chevalier’s Books in morale by showing the communi- and Galettes des Rois King’s Cake. pecan. The “Pie of the Month” is Hobbs offering many varieties, gift Larchmont Village. Part of the ty of merchants and restaurants As always, Monsieur Marcel stocks chocolate pecan. cards and fun pickle socks. Firehouse Dinners program, cares for its first responders.” a large selection of holiday wines Du-par’s is also offering a special Other market merchants offering which coordinates the delivery of Other Larchmont Village busi- and Champagnes, mulled wine and option for children during the holi- holiday specials include Dragunara food from local merchants to fire- nesses also recently contributed glogg, in addition to nutmeg, days: a Teddy Bear Tea Party for Spice Bazaar, Light My Fire, fighters, the new effort focuses on to the Firehouse Dinners pro- mulling spice and cinnamon sticks two ($18.95), four ($34), and six Michelina Artisan Boulanger, Roxy the time after dinner by providing gram, including Louise’s for festive hot beverages. ($45). The tea parties include assort- & Jo’s Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar, books at the fire stations. The Trattoria, which prepared meals Du-par’s is offering complete hol- ed triangle sandwiches, including Sticker Planet and The Dog Bakery. First-In Fire Foundation recently for firefighters. The First-In Fire iday feasts, with the large feast serv- peanut butter and jelly, ham and Contact the individual merchants for purchased 12 new firefighting- Foundation helps in many other ing 8-10 people for $255, and the cheese, chicken salad and smoked specific details and information on related books from Chevalier’s ways. For information, call smaller feast serving 4-6 people for salmon. pickup and delivery. Books to start the library program. (323)933-8164 or (323)258- $155. Orders include choice of a full For gifts, By Candlelight offers a The Original Farmers Market is “For 80 years, Chevalier’s 1589, email firstinfirefounda- ham or turkey, plus sides including variety of candles and Christmas- located at 6333 W Third St. For Books has been an integral part of [email protected] or visit firstin- butternut squash soup, homemade and Hanukkah-themed face masks, information, call (323)933-9211, or the Larchmont community. We are firefoundation.org. mashed potatoes, glazed fresh car- while Essence of Nature sells relax- visit farmersmarketla.com. 14 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

soup or salad, main dishes and the past 12 years, the Santa Monica prime rib roast to perfection. dessert for up to six people for Pub Crawl has raised enough Baltaire’s prime rib and wine pack- Hanukkah & $200. They also have a few à la money to provide a half a million ages are available for pickup carte options that include a quarter meals to those less fortunate during throughout the month of December, pan ricotta kugel with cornflake the holidays. This new virtual ver- including on Christmas Eve and Holiday Dining streusel. Other menu items include sion of the holiday fundraiser is $20 New Year’s Eve, with some festive their famous matzo ball soup, a for non-alcoholic drinkers and $55 additions. Prime rib packages start by Jill Weinlein first-cut brisket and crispy potato for those who want to enjoy a four- at $295 for a three-pound, herb- latkes with housemade apple sauce. pack of canned cocktails, chips and crusted prime rib roast, au jus and Wine and cocktails are available for pico de gallo, and a commemora- creamy horseradish, creamy lobster pairing. 13181 Mindanao Way, tive holiday mask from Lanea bisque, baby gem Caesar salad, (310)821-6626. Cocktail Bar. The ticket price olive oil whipped potatoes, roasted includes free delivery for those in heirloom carrots, Epi baguette with Santa Monica or Venice, plus tax cultured butter and a chocolate silk Dec. 12, Lucques Catering is offer- 12th annual Santa and gratuity. santamonicapub- pie. Guests can also order every- Hanukkah dinners ing Westholme Australian Wagyu crawl.com/tickets. thing but the roast for four people assembling kits for up to four peo- Monica Pub Crawl for $155. Add three bottles of wine from Lucques that include a white, red and ple for $375. Ordering for takeout his year’s event focuses on is exclusively through Tock for Baltaire Prime Rib sparkling wine for $99. The order ave executive chef Suzanne takeout food and drink specials link is waltzin.com/restaurant/bal- safety-compliant curbside pickup at Tduring the month of December. On HGoin, Caroline Styne and Lucques Catering in Beverly Hills. dinners to-go tairesholidaydinnercarryout. 11647 Lucques Catering make your cele- Saturday, Dec. 19, from 6 to 8 p.m., San Vicente Blvd., (424)273-1660. Pickup hours are noon to 4 p.m. virtual crawlers can participate in elebrate the holidays with the bratory Hanukkah meal. They are Delivery is also available with preparing potato latkes with apple- bingo game night while supporting help from executive chef DoorDash. Go to local bars and restaurants. Host CTravis Strickland, who is launching sauce and crème fraiche, braised exploretock.com/lucquescatering/e Grain Traders opens beef brisket, Moroccan beets with Brian Thomas Smith from “The holiday prime rib dinners for up to xperience/227363/menu/holiday- Big Bang Theory” and DJ Kooleo eight people. The thoughtfully labneh, roasted root vegetables and entertaining-dinner-pick-up. 345 N. on Fairfax braided challah for takeout. For of Free Space Virtual Events pro- crafted holiday carryout dinners Maple Drive, (310)800-1789. vide cocktails, games, trivia and a feature an herb-crusted prime rib Good Food Company eatery dessert, there is an apple-cranberry crumble with cider crème fraîche. ton of prizes including hotel stays roast, traditional sides and wine. Afrom Singapore debuts its first The dinner is available tonight, and gift certificates to local restau- The Baltaire team will have your U.S. location in West Hollywood at Dec. 10, through Dec.12 and Dec. Jerry’s Patio Café & rants. Attendees are encouraged to order packed and ready for pickup the intersection of Fairfax and 17-19. It serves six people and is Bar Holiday menu order takeout and keep the receipt on the day and time of your choice. Santa Monica Boulevard. The priced at $275. Hand-painted for a chance to win. Funds raised Included in the order are easy expansive new restaurant is repur- Hanukkah cookies can be added for ring home a special holiday during this one-night event will go preparation instructions, a roasting posed from an automobile repair an additional $36 a dozen. Through Bmenu that includes a choice of to the Westside Food Bank. Over pan and thermometer to cook your continues next page

Holiday Bakerry Bonanza

2 Cinnamon Rolls + 2 Muffins or Donuts + $ 22C CCoffee or Hot ChocolChocolate 20

Order Direct or from Chow Now • Postmates DoorDash • Uber Eats Follow Us! @duparsfm In tthe Original Farmers Market • 3rd & Fairfax (323)933-8446 • (323)933-8447 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 15 December 10, 2020 shop and features a menu of dishes ly meal bundles to enjoy at home. vegetable sides, two biscuits and composed of whole grains, fresh The Famiglia Special is kid-friend- dessert. Rotating daily specials: Latkes and Lights: an evening with a vegetables, beans, legumes, nuts, ly with the choice of two of their Tuesday, grilled skirt steak; seeds, and plant-based and lean most famous dishes: a half tray of Wednesday, duck sausage; Thursday, holocaust survivor proteins inspired by the season. spaghetti and meatballs or penne white shrimp; Friday, whole fish; Signature dishes include yellowfin chicken Alfredo, one French Saturday, barbecue pork ribs; and n Monday, Dec. 14, at 6 p.m., tuna tatak and grilled Gochujang baguette with butter, a half tray of Sunday, fried chicken. The regular Othe Holocaust Museum LA tofu steak topped with tempeh mixed green salad, a single-serving menu is also available as are seasonal presents a virtual, family-friendly crisps. Organic whole grains of tiramisu and cheesecake, and a batched cocktails. To-go offerings Hanukkah celebration combining include forbidden black rice mixed choice of either a bottle of San are available Tuesday through history and cuisine. The evening with caramelized leeks and onions. Antonio chianti or burgundy for Sunday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. via will include remarks from chef Plant-based entrees include green $85 plus tax. The Winery Special curbside pick-up and delivery by Akasha Richmond, chef and co- papaya coleslaw made with an includes a half tray of chicken Tock and Postmates. 907 E. Third St. owner of Akasha, as well as an Asian-inspired peanut dressing. Parmigiano or chicken marsala, (323)849-0480, manuela-la.com. opportunity for attendees to engage Warm comfort dishes include green served with a half tray of imported with Holocaust survivor Gabriella curry casserole with generous penne with sauce, one French Karin to learn about her stories, chunks of braised eggplant. The baguette with butter, a half tray of Big Dave’s Eggnog favorite Hanukkah memories and beverage program features sustain- autumn chopped chicken salad, a light the menorah. General tickets ably sourced, locally-roasted coffee single-serving of gourmet choco- he Hungry Cat cult favorite is are available with a $12 minimum from City Bean, as well as custom late cake and gourmet carrot cake. Tnow available from A.O.C. to donation. Order Akasha’s special Hanukkah menu to enjoy while watch- blended craft teas from Taiwan. This order also comes with a bottle gift or enjoy during the holidays. ing the presentation. Richmond and partner Alan Schulman present Open seven days a week from 8 of either San Antonio chianti or bur- Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne Akasha’s Vodkas & Latkes Hanukkah Dinner offered for takeout and a.m. to 4 p.m. for takeout and deliv- gundy for $90 plus tax. Call to are thrilled to announce the return delivery starting tonight, Dec.10, through Thursday, Dec. 17. Begin with ery via Postmates, GrubHub and order, 24 hours in advance. 737 of chef David Lentz’s proprietary a few of Akasha’s imaginative Hanukkah vodka cocktails premixed and DoorDash. 1010 N. Fairfax Ave., Lamar St., (323)986-2360. Big Dave’s Famous Eggnog. It’s a sold in 12-ounce glass bottles, priced at $25 each. Pair with Akasha’s (323)591-3200. classic eggnog made with a secret famous Yukon gold potato latkes with applesauce and sour cream. The blend made of spiced rum, cognac menu also includes chopped chicken liver or vegan green pea and walnut, Manuela’s Supper and Jameson whiskey and finished matzo ball soup, slow-braised beef brisket, chicken or vegetable tagine. Maddalena Restaurant with nutmeg and cinnamon. The Sides include sweet noodle kugel or olive oil-roasted Tutti-Frutti Farm’s for Two takeaway eggnog $24 for 16 ounces, and $42 carrots and green beans. Akasha offers a Hanukkah cookie box which family meals for 32 ounces. Order online through includes Mom’s Pecan Hanukkah Snowballs, coconut macaroons that are anuela in the downtown L.A. Dec. 31 at aocwinebar.com for plain and chocolate dipped, chocolate-hazelnut rugelach, and apricot jam an Antonio Winery may be Arts District is offering its pickup or delivery from DoorDash. and dried fruit rugelach priced at $12. Go to akasharestaurant.com/menu closed; however, Maddalena Mnightly Supper for Two takeaway 8700 W. Third St., (310)859-9859. to order dinner and holocaustmuseumla.org/event-details/latkes-and- SRestaurant in downtown Los special, available after 5 p.m. for $48. lights-an-evening-with-holocaust-survivors-and-chef-akasha-richmond Angeles is open, offering two fami- It includes an entrée, seasonal salad, continues on page 16 for the virtual event. 9543 Culver Blvd., (310)845-1700. 16 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Musso and Frank Grill launches relief fund for employees Inspired by the altruistic ges- tures of dozens of longtime patrons of the iconic restaurant, the owners of the Musso and Frank Grill have launched the Musso Employee Relief Fund. The new fund will provide 50% of the funds required to cover the ongoing health care and medical insurance coverage, and 50% for living expenses, for the restau- rant’s 84 employees who are cur- rently furloughed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Mark photo courtesy of The Grove Echeverria, Musso and Frank’s CFO/COO and a fourth-generation member of the family of owners, The Grove to host movie nights said he was grateful for the support photo by Tina Whatcott Echeverria The Musso and Frank Grill’s new fund supports the many employees This holiday season, The Grove will host a pair of drive-in movie expe- from the community and thankful who have been furloughed during the pandemic. riences as part of Santa’s Cinema. On Dec. 14, the 2000 remake of “How for the ability to help longtime the Grinch Stole Christmas” will be shown, and on Dec. 21, the featured employees. film is “Elf.” “So many friends, longtime to be partnered with our communi- since the venue was first forced to Both movies will begin at 6:30 p.m., with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. patrons and members of our ty members, truly wonderful folks close for business in March. The events – to be held on the eighth floor of the parking garage – will extended Musso ‘family’ have who have inspired the formation of Additionally, 25% of all pro- also feature dinners, holiday treats and special appearances from Santa been reaching out to us without this new fund.” ceeds generated by retail sales of Claus. On Dec. 14, dinner will be provided by Picnic Society by Gwen, prompting, inquiring as to how After dozens of longtime Musso online merchandise – which and on Dec. 21, food will be provided by Bar Verde. they might go about making a and Frank patrons began reaching includes Musso and Frank-brand- Two meals cost $70 per car, three meals cost $105 per car and four meals charitable contribution to the wel- out to the restaurant’s owners in ed face masks, cufflinks, gift cards cost $140 per car. fare of our employees,” Echeverria November asking how they could and a book detailing the restau- The Grove is located at 189 The Grove Drive. For information, visit the- said. “We were touched by these help furloughed employees, the rant’s 100 year history – will be grovela.com. acts of generosity and by knowing owners created a GoFundMe Page added to the fund. that dozens of longtime patrons to raise money to cover the ongo- The Musso and Frank Grill has were willing to demonstrate the ing health care and medical insur- been a Hollywood icon and desti- support our employees enjoy from ance coverage and living expenses. nation since 1919. For information Restaurant News the community by making finan- The owners have been covering and to support the fund, visit mus- From page 15 cial donations. We are very proud their employees’ health coverage soandfrank.com. Culver City virtual holiday show Holiday Road USA onight, starting at 6 p.m., join others virtually for the 2020 annual ake a safe drive now through Jan. 10, 2021, to King Gillette Ranch Downtown Culver City Holiday Tree Lighting Celebration presented for a festive drive-thru holiday installation. See twinkling lights, Tby Amazon Studios. It’s a free celebratory show hosted by Downtown Tcandy canes and themed holiday decorations while listening to holiday Business Association President Darrel Menthe and features a 22-foot arti- music and receive waves from Santa, Mrs. Claus and busy elves. ficial Rocky Mountain pine adorned with 7,500 warm LED lights and vir- Purchase tickets in advance starting at $75 a car at holidayroadusa.com. tual appearance by Academy Award winner Tim Robbins, artistic director 26800 W. Mulholland Hwy., Calabasas. of the Actors’ Gang. There is a specially created dance film from Invertigo Dance Theatre, vocal performance by Lesili Beard of Vox Femina Los Angeles, holiday greetings by the mayor and City Council, and Santa. The virtual event is family friendly for everyone to enjoy safely at home. No Order Now for the Holidays login credentials or pre-registration required. Go to downtownculvercity.com. The Bite L.A. Holiday Show Prime Rib All Natural, njoy eight different festive sweet holiday bites along a stay-in-your-car, Edrive-thru holiday wonderland. Each car receives bags of snowballs to Hormone & Antibiotic Free thrown at dancing snowmen and a holiday stocking to take home. Drive “The Best Prime Rib You’ll Ever Eat” along holiday lights and themed stops to receive holiday cookies, candies and special treats. Finish with a movie, music and a live performance by Santa. Tickets start at $38 per person. thebitela.com. 751 Santa Anita Ave., South El Monte.

Colorado Leg of Lamb Bone-in or Butterflied

• Crown Roast of Pork • Whole Filet Mignon • Ham, Turkey & Much More!

Season Roasts, Turkey, Burgers & more with In Emily’s Kitchen Spice Blends!

6333 W. Third St. In The Original Farmers Market 323.938.5131 www.marcondas.com Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 17 December 10, 2020

L.A.’s Largest Selection of Floor Covering Linoleum • Vinyl Tile • Fiber Floor • Laminate Floors • Azrock VCT • Rubber Prices so low you’ll be floored! We understand your needs and deliver promptly. Professionally installed or Do-It-Yourself! 4849 Santa Monica Blvd. • (323)469-0063 • www.linocity.com 18 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press LAUSD pauses in-person instruction due to COVID-19 With COVID-19 case levels in survey of families found the vast Los Angeles at record highs – majority expressed support for nearly three times higher than LAUSD’s efforts to provide online those in San Francisco and twice instruction, more than one-third those in New York City – said they want their children back Superintendent Austin Beutner at schools. announced the suspension of all “Time away from teachers, school-based instructional and friends and the structure of a class- child care programs for the rest of room is harming children,” the fall semester. Beutner said. “Many students are Los Angeles Unified had been struggling with online learning, in providing one-on-one and small- particular young learners, students group tutoring for students, and learning English, students with dif- those efforts have now shifted ferences and disabilities, and stu- online. Los Angeles Unified is also dents who were struggling before temporarily suspending child care, school facilities closed. The gaps which was provided on campus for are more pronounced in some of children of school-based employ- the highest needs communities we ees and high-needs families, as serve. The desire and capacity of well as athletic conditioning pro- all students is the same, but for grams for student athletes. The photo courtesy of LAUSD some students online education changes on school campuses had Superintendent Austin Beutner just isn’t working.” taken effect by Dec. 10. suspended school-based instruc- Beutner also outlined plans for “Because of the extraordinary tion and child care due to COVID- the eventual reopening of schools, high level of COVID-19 in the Los 19 increases. and he called on federal and state Angeles area, it is no longer safe officials to provide funding and photo courtesy of Ilene and Kyle Knebel and appropriate to have any stu- virus,” he continued. “We can’t operational support for the effort. The Santa Monica Elks honored BHHS senior Elise Knebel (left) as dents on campus,” Beutner said. create a bubble for the school com- Plans currently include: creating a its student of the month. She is pictured with Jaynee Roszhart. “We will also be asking those who munity. When things are so dan- safe environment that includes are currently working at schools to gerous in the communities we cleaning and sanitizing of facilities work from home if at all possible serve, it has implications for and personal protective equipment BHHS Senior named student of for the rest of the semester. schools as well. for students and staff; having “This is greatly disappointing to “My hope is this action today school-based COVID-19 testing will not only protect the health and and contact tracing to identify and month by Santa Monica Elks “The dire safety of all in the school commu- isolate those with the virus to help Beverly Hills High School and is busy submitting her col- situation faced nity but will keep the focus where reduce the risk for all in a school Senior Elise Knebel was recent- lege applications. As a Gold it needs to be – getting the spread community; offering mental- ly presented with the Student of Award Girl Scout, Elise serves by schoolchildren of COVID-19 down to levels health support for students to the Month Award from the Santa her community with many dif- deserves the same where schools can safely reopen.” address the significant trauma that Monica Elks Lodge. ferent projects including deliver- Los Angeles Unified’s Grab & will accompany them back to Elise has maintained at 3.5 ing food on weekends for extraordinary Go Food Centers, which have pro- classrooms; and funding in-person GPA during distance learning NourishLA, a local food bank. response we have vided more than 85 million meals instruction next summer to help come to expect after along with 10 million items of students recover from learning needed supplies as part of a nation- losses due to the pandemic. floods, wildfires and leading, school-based relief effort, “The dire situation faced by El Capitan Theatre offers festive hurricanes.” will continue to operate at school schoolchildren deserves the same sites. The district will also contin- extraordinary response we have fun at home for the holidays -Austin Beutner, ue its free COVID-19 testing pro- come to expect after floods, wild- Holiday plans may look different allows guests to purchase screen LAUSD superintendent gram at schools, which is helping fires and hurricanes in order to this year, but the El Capitan time on the theater’s iconic mar- protect the health of all in the help return students to schools as Theatre has you covered for at- quee on . school community and will also soon as possible in the safest way home fun. Packages range from $25 to $200. all who have been working so hard provide important information possible,” Beutner said. Order Disney-themed items to El Capitan Theatre also offers to build a proper foundation for needed to reopen schools when it “Our country needs to address make your holidays more festive private trivia events for guests students’ return to campus. Clean is safe and appropriate to do so. the ‘national emergency’ in with drink sippers, popcorn con- looking to have a fun virtual party schools, proper health protocols Los Angeles Unified continues schools before it becomes a tainers and activity packs. with friends, family or employees. and COVID-19 testing for all at to plan for a return students to national disgrace that will haunt The ongoing Marquee Messages Visit elcapitantheatre.com for schools make a difference, but schools as soon as possible, in the many children for the rest of their program at El Capitan Theatre more information. they don’t provide immunity to the safest way possible. While a new lives,” he added.

Rosewood STEM Magnet Urban Planning & Urban Design We n Our Students!

NOW ENROLLING! Be a part of the first Urban Planning and Urban Design STEM magnet in LAUSD! Rosewood is a community that nurtures the whole child and through a STEM focus, with an urban planning and urban design theme, there are many pathways to meet your child’s interests. Rosewood has a full time music teacher with students receiving music theory, keyboarding and ukulele. Students take part in the Mindfulness Lab, Science Lab, Technology Lab, and our brand new Makerspace. Rosewood is also a Social Emotional Focus school. Contact our main office for guidance with the application process.

Your child may be eligible for transportation. Visit www.rosewoodelementary.org or call (323)651-0166 503 N. Croft Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90048 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 19 December 10, 2020 Newsom has learning, care plan Building on his commitment to success of our youngest Leslie Ramirez is named LAUSD police chief supporting the state’s young chil- Californians, their families and The Los Angeles Unified dren and their families, Gov. the communities and caregivers School District Board of Gavin Newsom on Dec. 1 that lift them up,” he added. Education voted unanimously announced the release of the From the start of the pandemic on Dec. 8 to promote Interim Master Plan for Early Learning in March through the end of School Police Chief Leslie and Care: California for All Kids, October, the Department of Social Ramirez to the permanent posi- which provides a strong research- Services estimates 2,030 family tion of chief. Ramirez has based roadmap for building a child care homes and 390 child served as interim chief since comprehensive and equitable care centers have closed perma- July, overseeing nearly 300 early learning and care system nently, making it harder for fami- sworn officers, 90 safety offi- over the next decade. lies to work and care for their cers and 30 civilian employees. children. In light of this, the plan A graduate of Alexander recommends the first steps seek to “By investing in the Hamilton High School, Ramirez provide relief to parents, quality started her law-enforcement development and care for children and stability to career in 1991 as a campus offi- learning needs of child care providers as the state cer. She has served LAUSD and rebuilds an early learning and our kids, with a the school police as an officer, care system weakened by detective, sergeant, lieutenant, focus on equity, we COVID-19. Now more than ever adjutant and deputy chief. are investing in the it is clear how important child “Chief Ramirez has dedicated care is to the state’s overall eco- her career to keeping all in our future of our state.” nomic recovery. school community – students, The plan outlines specific rec- staff and their families – safe,” -Gavin Newsom, ommendations for creating a Superintendent Austin Beutner California Governor comprehensive, family-centric said. “Chief Ramirez’s experi- system driven by equity, includ- ences make her uniquely quali- ing unifying programs for infants fied to lead as we continue the The plan will help the state bet- and toddlers and improving work to create safe and welcom- ter understand the crisis families, access to paid family leave; pro- ing environments in all of our children and early learning and viding universal preschool for all schools.” care providers are facing amid the 4-year-olds and income eligible 3- Ramirez earned a bachelor’s COVID-19 pandemic and identify year-olds and those with disabili- degree in organizational man- photo courtesy of LAUSD key policy goals to ensure that all ties; prohibiting suspensions and agement from the University of Leslie Ramirez was named Chief of School Police on Dec. 8 by the California children can thrive expulsions in subsidized early La Verne and graduated from Los Angeles Unified Board of education. physically, emotionally and edu- learning programs, which has dis- the USC Sol Price Executive cationally in their early years proportionately impacted young Leadership Program. She was began the process of reviewing Los Angeles Unified School through access to high-quality Black boys; and supporting the recently appointed to the execu- and evaluating our mission, District.” early learning and care programs. development of dual-language tive board of the California K- operations and district objec- “We are glad to have Chief These goals include universal learners, who represent 60% of 12 Police Chiefs Association. tives,” Ramirez added. “Our Ramirez at the helm as we work preschool, enhanced workforce California’s young children. “I am honored and privileged focus remains the safety of stu- to reimagine the role of the development and equitable career “The Master Plan for Early to have been selected as Chief dents, staff and the entire Los School Police and ensure the pathways for educators and care- Learning and Care unlocks the of the Los Angeles School Angeles Unified community. safety of our students and givers, and funding reforms to innovative spirit of California, Police Department,” Ramirez The path ahead will bring a time school communities,” said promote equitable access to high- helping us create a comprehen- said. “As a proud Los Angeles of transition and change as we Board Member Nick Melvoin, quality early learning and care. sive early learning and care sys- Unified graduate and first restructure our department. 4th District. “As a product of “Every child in California tem that produces big returns in female chief, my appointment What remains unchanged is the L.A. Unified, with more than deserves a shot at opportunity,” better education, health and eco- sends a powerful message to all importance of our role and our two decades of service to this Newsom said. “By investing in nomic outcomes,” said Dr. Mark those who aspire to lead and mission to maintain the safest District, she brings both valu- the development and learning Ghaly, secretary of California serve. educational environments and able insight and a fresh perspec- needs of our kids, with a focus on health and human services. “In the last few months, we surroundings throughout the tive to this leadership role.” equity, we are investing in the “Children, families, the future future of our state.” for our state – everyone wins “The Master Plan for Early when we build a California for All Learning and Care translates our Kids,” he added. aspirations into an actionable For information, visit californi- roadmap – one that centers on the aforallkids.chhs.ca.gov. LAUSD to offer tenure track for adult education teachers The Los Angeles Unified education program in the country Board of Education has voted to by ensuring that DACE teachers create a pathway to tenure for have the opportunity to achieve hundreds of teachers in the the same job security as their Division of Adult and Career peers. Per the resolution, DACE Education. teachers who have been employed by LAUSD as probationary employees for two consecutive “Adult education school years will become tenured provides opportu- teachers if they continue in their positions for a third year. nities for adults to DACE provides access to high- invest in them- quality, pre- and post-secondary selves by adding education and training opportuni- ties at 11 centers and 140 satellite skills to pursue a locations across LAUSD. new career.” DACE also administers the largest apprenticeship training -Austin Beutner, program in the country, represent- LAUSD superintendent ing 61 trades and 41 individual program sponsors. DACE employs about 800 teachers and “I commend the service of our serves more than 68,000 students DACE teachers to Los Angeles annually in programs such as Unified and to our adult education English as a second language, OPENINGS students,” Board Vice President academic and high school studies, Jackie Goldberg said. “I am very and career and technical educa- in K-5th GRADES happy the board took action … to tion. Click here recognize these wonderful teach- “Education is important, no ers and the great contributions matter what your age,” or go to our website they make to our school district.” Superintendent Austin Beutner to check for The resolution, made by said. “Adult education provides Goldberg, was intended to reaf- opportunities for adults to invest distance learning firm LAUSD’s commitment to in themselves by adding skills to updates. maintaining the most robust adult pursue a new career.” 20 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Elizabeth Taylor Ball spotlights World AIDS Day On World AIDS Day, Dec. 1, the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation hosted the virtual Elizabeth Taylor Ball to End AIDS. The elegant evening, hosted by ETAF ambas- Remembering Rafer Johnson sador Kathy Ireland, was generous- ly supported by Gilead Sciences Inc. and Bulgari. The one-hour broadcast reflected Elizabeth Taylor’s vision of an AIDS-free world, with moving messages about the nearly 40-year fight against AIDS from President Bill Clinton, Ambassador Deborah Birx, Colin Farrell and Sir Elton John, among others. Music icon Vanessa Williams performed. The live auction was conducted photo courtesy of the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation by Lydia Fenet in partnership with ETAF ambassador Kathy Ireland hosted the virtual gala. Christie’s and included a walk-on role in the upcoming Elizabeth more people have avoided contract- commitment and concentration on Taylor biopic, and a luxury travel ing HIV. The award was accepted marginalized communities, ETAF’s package by Bulgari. by the Chairman and CEO of advocacy agenda now includes Earvin “Magic” and Cookie Gilead Sciences Inc., Daniel work to modernize the criminal Johnson presented the inaugural O’Day. laws and penalties that affect peo- Elizabeth Taylor Commitment to Prior to the event, fashion design- ple living with HIV. ETAF’s work End AIDS Award to Gilead er Zac Posen hosted a VIP pre- has also expanded to ensure that Sciences Inc. for their global lead- show. HIV prevention education and ership in HIV treatment and pre- ETAF works to provide the direct access to treatment is available vention. Through their innovation care needed for people living with through domestic and international and medical advances, countless and affected by HIV and AIDS. initiatives. lives are being saved, and many Emphasizing Elizabeth’s voice, For information, visit etaf.org. Academy’s Science and Technology Council grows Linda Borgeson, Lois Burwell, Academy’s Board of Governors, members are Bill Baggelaar, Teri Dorman, Greg Hedgepath, the council provides a forum for the Brooke Breton, Bill Corso, Theo Ujwal Nirgudkar, Helena Packer exchange of information, promotes Gluck, Buzz Hays, Leslie Iwerks, Olympic greats Rafer Johnson, left, and Louis Zamperini came and Amy Vincent have accepted cooperation among diverse techno- Andrea Kalas, Academy governor together in this photograph in the Aug. 14, 2008, issue of the Park invitations to join the Science and logical interests within the industry, John Knoll, Colette Mullenhoff, Labrea News and Beverly Press during a goodwill ceremony at the Los Technology Council of the sponsors publications, fosters edu- Cary Phillips, Arjun Ramamurthy, Angeles Memorial Coliseum for athletes competing that year in the Academy of Motion Picture Arts cational activities and preserves the Rachel Rose, David Schuelle, Leon Olympic Games in Beijing, China. Johnson, who died on Dec. 2 at the and Sciences, bringing the council’s history of the science and technolo- Silverman, Jeffrey E. Taylor and age of 86, was a standout athlete at UCLA and later broke records in 2020-21 membership roster to 25. gy of motion pictures. Steve Yedlin. track and field and won a gold medal in the decathlon in the 1960 Established in 2003 by the The council’s 16 other returning For information, visit oscars.org. Olympic Games in Rome. At the 2008 ceremony, Johnson returned to the site where he famously lit the Olympic torch to start the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. In addition to sports, he was well- known for appearances in movies and television. Also, along with foot- ball star Rosey Grier and others, Johnson helped subdue Sirhan Sirhan, who assassinated presidential candidate and U.S. Sen. Robert F. Kennedy at the Ambassador Hotel in 1968. Johnson is remembered as an exceptional athlete, humanitarian and ambassador for the Olympics and the city of Los Angeles. In the accompanying article, he stressed the importance of sports in youth development and the impact it has on success later in life. KOST joins CHLA for Giving Tuesday On Dec. 1, “The Ellen K ence some truly inspirational Morning Show” on KOST 103.5, patient stories, and highlight the kicked off the Children’s Hospital tireless efforts of the doctors, nurs- Los Angeles' annual Giving es, child life staff and all of the Tuesday fundraising campaign. other frontline workers that make Giving Tuesday is the international CHLA the jewel of our city.” day of charitable giving that takes CHLA’s year-end fundraising place on the first Tuesday after campaign is a month-long appeal Thanksgiving. to the community to donate funds KOST 103.5 dedicated 12 hours that will directly support the pedi- of programming to Giving Tuesday atric medical care CHLA provides. and featured interviews with CHLA is the primary safety net patient families, hospital leaders, hospital for all families in need of celebrity supporters and sponsor- highly specialized pediatric care. ing partners. Donations to the campaign through “We are grateful to our friends at the end of the year will ensure that KOST for partnering with us for a every patient treated at CHLA fifth consecutive Giving Tuesday receives the critical, lifesaving care event,” CHLA President and CEO they need. Paul Viviano said. “We rely on the Blueair, a leading international generosity of our supporters and producer of air purifiers designed this year their support is more cru- in Sweden, was Giving Tuesday’s cial than ever.” premier matching sponsor with a “The COVID-19 pandemic has $200,000 gift. greatly impacted how our commu- In addition, throughout nity, our country and the world can December, for every contribution function, but we have not allowed of $35 or more, CHLA will provide it to impede CHLA’s ability to pro- a copy of “Natalie Portman’s vide lifesaving care to our pediatric Fables” to a child in the hospital. patients,” he added. The New York Times best-selling “Over the years my admiration children’s book, written by for the incredible work that is done Academy Award-winning actress, at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles director, producer and activist has deepened,” said Ellen K, Natalie Portman, retells three clas- whose son, Calvin, is a former sic fables with a modern take on patient. “My KOST family and I timeless life lessons. are honored to once again have the Visit kost1035.com/chla to opportunity to share with our audi- donate. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 21 December 10, 2020

petty theft in the 300 block of S. An unknown suspect committed a Dec. 1 Cloverdale at 2:35 p.m. petty theft in the 7000 block of Hollywood at 7 a.m. An unknown suspect assaulted a P OLICE BLOTTER At 3 p.m., an unknown suspect victim in the 1000 block of N. robbed a victim in the 1000 block At 8:30 a.m., an unknown suspect Mansfield at 2:35 a.m. of N. Western. burglarized a vehicle parked in the 1800 block of N. Fuller. At 5:35 a.m., an unknown suspect The following crimes occurred in West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the An unknown suspect committed a committed a grand theft near the areas patrolled by the LAPD’s Wilshire and Hollywood divisions between petty theft in the 6000 block of An unknown suspect assaulted a corner of Cahuenga and Odin. Nov. 29 and Dec. 5. The information was compiled from Sunset at 3 p.m. victim in the 5900 block of Barton crimemapping.com. To report a crime, call local law enforcement agencies: at noon. An unknown suspect burglarized a Los Angeles Police Department, Wilshire Division (213)473-0476, Los At 3 p.m., an unknown suspect vehicle parked in the 400 block of Angeles County Sheriff’s Department West Hollywood Station (310)855- stole a vehicle parked near the At 2 p.m., an unknown suspect S. Detroit at 6 a.m. 8850, and the Beverly Hills Police Department, (310)550-4951. corner of Fernwood and Western. burglarized a vehicle parked near the corner of Bronson and Virginia. At 7:20 a.m., an unknown suspect Beverly Hills Police committed a grand theft in the An unknown suspect robbed a vic- robbed a victim in the 7200 block 9700 block of Wilshire. tim in the 1000 block of N. Western An unknown suspect committed a of Franklin. Department at 3 p.m. grand theft in the 6600 block of Wilshire at 3 p.m. An unknown suspect stole a vehi- West Hollywood At 3:20 p.m., an unknown suspect cle parked in the 15000 block of Nov. 29 Vine at 2:30 p.m. committed a petty theft in the 6100 At 3:55 p.m., an unknown suspect Sheriff’s Station At 3:13 a.m., an unknown suspect block of Hollywood. committed a petty theft in the 5400 At 3:10 p.m., an unknown suspect committed a burglary in the 1000 block of Hollywood. Nov. 29 assaulted a victim in the 8400 block of . An unknown suspect assaulted a An unknown suspect burglarized a block of W. Third. At 4:23 a.m., an unknown suspect victim in the 100 block of S. Oxford at 3:40 p.m. vehicle parked in the 6609 block of Nov. 30 committed a burglary in the 8500 Franklin at noon. An unknown suspect committed a block of Santa Monica. petty theft in the 12700 block of N. At 5:45 p.m., an unknown suspect At 5:28 p.m., an unknown suspect At 6 p.m., an unknown suspect Cahuenga at 5 p.m. committed a grand theft in the 600 An unknown suspect robbed a vic- robbed a victim in the 7400 block of Melrose. burglarized a vehicle parked in the block of N. Oakhurst. tim in the 7100 block of Santa At 5 p.m., an unknown suspect 1400 block of N. Curson. Monica at 5:30 p.m. committed a burglary in the 600 An unknown suspect stole a vehi- block of N. Sweetzer. Dec. 1 cle parked in the 8500 block of An unknown suspect burglarized a At 5:39 p.m., an unknown suspect committed a burglary in the 900 Burton Way at 7:45 p.m. vehicle parked in the 4000 bloc of At 5:20 p.m., an unknown suspect Seventh at 6 p.m. An unknown suspect assaulted a committed a grand theft in the 200 block of N. Fairfax. victim in the 5000 block of Wilshire block of N. Rodeo. At 7:50 p.m., an unknown suspect at 5 p.m. robbed a victim near the corner of At 6:15 p.m., an unknown suspect Nov. 30 Beverly and Fairfax. assaulted a victim near the corner An unknown suspect committed a At 5:30 p.m., an unknown suspect of Santa Monica and Vine. burglary in the 9200 block of At 2 p.m., an unknown suspect committed a petty theft in the 8000 An unknown suspect committed a Wilshire at 11:09 p.m. stole a vehicle parked in the 8400 block of Sunset. petty theft in the 6400 block of An unknown suspect committed a block of Fountain. Hollywood at 8 p.m. burglary in the 1600 block of An unknown suspect committed a Dec. 2 Schrader at 7 p.m. An unknown suspect committed a burglary in the 5600 block of At 8 p.m., an unknown suspect At 6 a.m., an unknown suspect grand theft in the 7100 block of Eighth at 6:30 p.m. committed a burglary in the 100 At 7:30 p.m., an unknown suspect burglarized a vehicle parked in the Santa Monica at 3:34 p.m. block of N. Arden. stole a bicycle in the 5500 lock of 100 block of N. Bedford. A second At 7 p.m., an unknown suspect Sunset. vehicle burglary was reported in At 9:02 p.m., an unknown suspect stole a vehicle parked in the 200 the same location at 9:45 a.m. robbed a victim in the 1100 block An unknown suspect committed a bloc of S. Norton. of Sherbourne. petty theft near the corner of An unknown suspect burglarized a An unknown suspect burglarized a Olympic and Fairfax at 8:04 p.m. vehicle parked in the 100 block of An unknown suspect stole a vehi- vehicle parked in the 400 block of Dec. 1 S. Oxford at 8:30 p.m. cle parked in the 200 block of S. N. Camden at 12:03 p.m. At 8:55 p.m., an unknown suspect Cole at 7 p.m. At 10:34 a.m., an unknown sus- robbed a victim in the 6100 block At 9:15 p.m., an unknown suspect At 4:30p.m., an unknown suspect pect committed a petty theft in the of Wilshire. committed a petty theft in the 1700 At 7:50 p.m., an unknown suspect burglarized a vehicle parked near 8300 block of Santa Monica. block of Orchid. committed a petty theft in the 1700 the corner of Arnaz and Wilshire. An unknown suspect burglarized a block of N. Hudson. An unknown suspect stole a vehi- vehicle parked in the 1800 block of At 11:15 p.m., a suspect assaulted An unknown suspect burglarized a cle parked in the 7100 block of N. Ivar at 11:20 p.m. a victim during a domestic vio- An unknown suspect committed a vehicle parked in the 100 block of Santa Monica at 8 p.m. lence incident in the 5500 block of burglary in the 1500 block of Robertson at 5:25 p.m. Nov. 30 Sierra Vista. Argyle at 9:45 p.m. Dec. 2 Dec. 3 At 2:40 a.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect stole a vehi- At 10 p.m., an unknown suspect At 8:20 p.m., an unknown suspect committed a burglary in the 1600 cle parked in the 1000 bloc of N. burglarized a vehicle parked in the An unknown suspect committed a committed a petty theft in the 7100 block of N. Gower. Hudson at 11:30 p.m. 1300 block of Gardner. burglary in the 300 block of S. block of Santa Monica. McCarty at 3:58 a.m.

At 10:20 a.m., an unknown sus- Los Angeles Police pect committed a petty theft in the Department 9700 block of Wilshire. Nov. 29 An unknown suspect committed a burglary in the 100 block of S. At 1:15 a.m., an unknown suspect Peck at 3:11 p.m. committed a burglary in the 600 block of S. La Brea. At 3:39 p.m., an unknown suspect robed a victim in the 400 block of An unknown suspect committed a N. Canon. petty theft in the 1500 block of

Vine at 2:40 a.m. Dec. 4 At 5:39 a.m., an unknown suspect At 8:05 a.m., an unknown suspect committed a burglary in the 900 burglarized a vehicle parked in the block of Fairfax. 400 block of N. Maple.

An unknown suspect burglarized a An unknown suspect committed a vehicle parked near the corner of commercial burglary in the 100 Waring and Cole at 11 a.m. block of N. La Cienega at 8:11 a.m.

At 6:18 p.m., a suspect was arrest- At noon, an unknown suspect ed on suspicion of driving under committed a petty theft in the 6500 the influence of alcohol or drugs block of De Longpre. near the corner of Wilshire and La Cienega. An unknown suspect assaulted a victim in the 6500 block of De An unknown suspect committed a Longpre at 1 p.m. petty theft in the 400 block of N. Camden at 12:30 p.m. At 2:07 p.m., an unknown suspect committed a petty theft in the 7400 At 1:35 p.m., an unknown suspect block of Beverly. committed a grand theft in the 9700 block of Wilshire. An unknown suspect committed a petty theft in the 200 block of N. An unknown suspect committed a Croft at 2:30 p.m. burglary in the 400 block of Bedford at 3:15 p.m. At 2:40 p.m., an unknown suspect committed a burglary in the 1600 Dec. 5 block of N. Vista.

At 5:30 p.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect committed a 22 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Classified Advertising email:[email protected] BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY COMPUTER HARDWARE LEGAL NOTICE UPHOLSTERY WEBSITE DESIGN

Need to publish a ALAKAZAM UPHOLSTERY & DRAPERY TThehe DBA?

DiscDisc Doc File with the Affordable Doc SCREENS • DOORS Los Angeles County Prices Computer Problems? HARDWARE Clerk at Commercial & Residential I CAN HELP! SALES & INSTALLATIONS lacounty.gov Every Style: • Troubleshooting Email your documents to Sofas, Chairs, Slipcovers mackeycreativelab.com • Lessons 7769 SANTA MONICA BL. Replace Feather Proof Lining [email protected] [email protected] • Purchase Consultation WEST HOLLYWOOD Broad Selection of Fabrics, Draperies & Roman Shades • Phone Support We will publish the ad 4X (323)248-0840 and send proof of HIGHEST QUALITY Joel Rothman www.tashmans.com WORKMANSHIP 323.240.5112 publication to the Call Rosie for FREE Estimate Since 1961 LA County Clerk. 310-491-8409 [email protected] Family Owned & Operated West Hollywood DOG WALKER

COOPER K-9 DOG WALKER • Leash Manner Training • Socialization, Structure, Exercise • Insured, Certified AKC Good Citizen Trainer 323.393.5238 [email protected] Google: Latty Cooper as seen on YouTube!

Now offering 8 different spice blends, Crossword Puzzle by Myles Mellor including a set Across 68. “Who’s there?” response for the holidays! 69. Androcles’ friend 1. Freshly 70. Founded, abbr. 5. Gluck of opera 71. Woman-chaser 9. Twilled cotton 72. Marine flier 14. Knight at the movies 73. Costner role 15. Colorado resort 16. Healthcare benefits giant Down 17. Make ___ for it 18. Cognizant of 1. Not completely closed 19. “Star Wars” name 2. Peter and a Wolfe • Autumn Warmth 20. Cozy porch seat 3. Draw forth • Poultry Rub 23. Visited 4. Used one eye • Home for the Holidays 24. “That is so funny” 5. English river New packaging & price! 25. ___ of State 6. Canadian singer k.d. Buy them today & 28. Abbreviations for certain companies 7. Musical Miller Spice up your Life! 31. Loser of 1588 8. “Welcome to the islands” 33. Parts of finan. portfolios 9. Seafood delicacy www.shop.inemilyskitchen.com 36. “Indeed!” 10. When repeated, a cry of approval 39. Male friends (Fr.) 11. It would, for short Support Local 40. Vegging out in the living room 12. Compass direction Journalism! 44. Auditory 13. Propel, in a way 45. Funnel-shaped 21. E-mail folder 37. Big head 58. Hop drying kilns Subscribe Today! 46. Cries of regret 22. “Mystery solved!” 38. Loudness measure 59. ___ Martin (cognac) 47. Fishing gear 25. South Pacific island group 41. Standout pilot 60. “Help ___ the way!” 50. Whirling water 26. Instruct 42. Simpson's neighbor 61. Unit of force FOR HOME DELIVERY WITH 52. Sault ___ Marie Canals 27. Spanish houses 43. Make confused 62. Youngsters THE LOS ANGELES TIMES, 53. Insurer for military personnel 29. Tuna type 48. Destroyer 63. Guy’s 56. Tile construction piece 30. Lip or otherwise harmonize 49. Fig. in identity theft 64. One ___ time CALL 59. Place to watch a fight 32. Some advanced degs. 51. Toadies 65. Astron. clock setting 213-283-2274 63. Duvall role in “The Godfather” 33. Black birds 54. Quick 66. ___-bitsy 34. Coup ___ 55. Up and about mentino code 9003 67. Arizona city 35. Playground sight 57. High flyers answers on page 27 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 23 December 10, 2020 ‘Jingle Jangle’ is best holiday special on Netflix

A pandemic can’t touch Netflix’s holiday fetish, hocking nearly 20 new films, limited series, themed episodes or spe- cials. That’s too much schmaltz for any one person to consume, even for research purposes. And the results, unsurprisingly, are mixed. Things traverse painful lows in the M-rated “Holidate,” with Emma Roberts’ Sloane agreeing to (I really don’t want to say this) “holidate” a platonic friend on Christmas, Valentine’s Day and the rest to fend off pestering rela- tives regarding nuptials, babies, that whole life thing, etc. When the pair (no spoiler here) photo courtesy of Netflix photo courtesy of FIDM inevitably click (just in time for a Madalen Mills and Forest Whitaker star in “Jingle Jangle,” the best in FIDM Co-Chairs of Fashion Design David Paul and Nick Verreos certain festive season), the film- Netflix’s expansive selection of holiday programs. helped make tonight’s digital runway show possible. makers miss a golden opportunity. “I thought I wanted a holidate,” Perhaps the most disappointing time for “Christmas Crossfire,” a Sloane tells Jackson (Luke outcome belongs to “The German action-comedy that looks FIDM streams runway show tonight Bracey). “But the truth is, I just Christmas Chronicles 2,” written like a bloody Yuletide romp. Some The annual Fashion Institute of demic. want you.” and directed by Chris Columbus eggnog and bourbon might pair Design & Merchandising “Debut “We are so excited to have the The second sentence should’ve (“Goonies” scribe, two-time nicely with that one. Show,” celebrating the creativity fashion show in the incredible ended, “I just want a ‘holimate.” “Harry Potter” director), who pro- Amidst Netflix’s exhausting of graduating designers, will be Cooper Design Building in (You’re welcome, folks.) duced the first installment. His playlist of holiday content, only streamed live on YouTube on downtown L.A., and more “Operation Christmas Drop” love for troublesome little critters one entry has any chance of sur- Thursday, Dec. 10, at 5 p.m. importantly, all of you will have a marks Kat Graham’s (“The goes overboard with Santa’s (still viving 2020: “Jingle Jangle: A More than 100 garments will front row seat to see the fabulous Vampire Diaries”) second Netflix Kurt Russell) elvish helpers run- Christmas Journey.” Imagine set- be seen in this virtual presenta- FIDM ‘Debut Runway Show,’” seasonal film (following 2018’s ning amuck. Think “Despicable ting a story in Oz’s Emerald City, tion of 10 advanced fashion FIDM Co-Chair of Fashion “”) and a complete with steampunk accents design students’ first collections. Design Nick Verreos said. first for “Viking’s” Alexander and catchy musical numbers. Four graduates in Theater “These collections showcase Ludwig. Too bad they converge Amidst Netflix’s Years ago, Jeronicus Jangle Costume Design will present an the diversity in design that makes here. Bad chemistry, condescend- exhausting playlist (Forest Whitaker when the charac- array of designs interpreting the Southern California the nucleus ing politics and laughable military ter ages) ran an enviable toy shop theme of Giacomo Puccini’s of style,” FIDM Co-Chair of jargon about the American territo- of holiday content, only rivaled by the Weasley twins’ opera, “Turandot.” Fashion Design David Paul said. ry’s “strategic necessity” in only one entry has Wizard Wheezes, located at 93 The fashion and theater cos- This year’s Debut designers Guam. Diagon Alley. But when his for- tume designers-to-be work over hail from countries all over the This non-“Operation Dumbo any chance of sur- mer assistant Gustafson (Keegan- nine months to create looks that world, including Indonesia, Drop” feature depicts a real tradi- viving 2020: Michael Key as the older one too) will be featured on the runway. Korea, Japan, Iran and across the tion so abysmally that the Military “Jingle Jangle: A steals his notes and a prize toy – a This celebration was originally United States. Times deemed it “a film that sets walking, talking, sentient figurine planned for April 2020, but was The link to watch the free its sights high but ultimately Christmas named Don Juan Diego (voiced by postponed because of the pan- show is bit.ly/VirtualDebutShow. crashes and burns,” Sarah Sicard Journey.” Ricky Martin) – Jeronicus’ world writes. She’s right. I’d watch “The crumbles. Christmas Prince: The Royal Now an old man, defeated and Baby” three times to avoid this Me” favoring minions too much; alone, he must develop a new toy again. it doesn’t work. And finally, Mrs. before bankers reclaim his shop. And Vanessa Hudgens, surviv- Claus (Goldie Hawn) receives Meanwhile, Gustafson exhausts ing an Instagram scandal earlier more than a cameo, only to hang his plagiarized ideas and hopes his this year, embarks on her third out with an injured reindeer. Odd old boss has one last golden egg. annual holiday film. Clearly, she choice. Amidst this, granddaughter wants that Hallmark opening left The rest of the holiday accord- Journey (breakout star Madalen vacant by Lori Loughlin, though I ing to Netflix feels like a haze of Mills) arrives to meet Jeronicus must question her continued glitter, bad Christmas puns and for the first time. Unbeknownst to involvement in the “Princess way too much sugar, thanks to the estranged former patriarch, Switch” flicks, which force the baking challenges and even a this young girl has the same “High School Musical” alum to stop-motion Christmas special, unique gift for invention he once play multiple roles (three this “Alien Xmas,” featuring a little did. time), each more mediocre than green dude disrupting the North “Jingle Jangle” is a peculiar the last. Leave that trope to the Pole’s operations for 42 minutes. combination of polished visual great Mr. Murphy. Alas, I must admit I ran out of effects and practical sets more appropriate for , sport- ing some impressive tunes and marvelous choreography along the way. The “Wicked” vibes are truly strong with this one, which greatly help soften the blow of the more cheesy, sentimental moments. The plotline might provide a degree of heart to the story, but “Jingle Jangle” excels in its many memorable songs, both catchy and visually enticing. Thank writer- director David E. Talbert (Netflix’s “,” “Almost Christmas”), who devel- oped the concept over 20 years, for bringing everything to life, but don’t forget to give a special shout-out to John Legend, Michael Diskint, Philip Lawrence and Davy Nathan for writing those songs. I suppose Netflix deserves a lit- tle gratitude this December, con- photo courtesy of Netflix tributing one instant classic Goldie Hawn and Kurt Russell come together again in “The Christmas amongst 18 other forgettable Chronicles 2.” entries. 24 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Skirball offers virtual Hanukkah programming The Skirball Cultural Center is offering two upcoming workshops on Sunday, December 13, making Hanukkah treats. The first work- shop is from 11 a.m. to noon and the second from 1 to 2 p.m. demonstrating making cheese pancakes with Amelia Saltsman. Writer, teacher and award-win- ning author of “The Seasonal Jewish Kitchen: A Fresh Take on Tradition,” Saltsman’s live cook- ing workshops feature her making Hanukkah treats inspired by Saltsman’s Romanian and Iraqi roots. While foods cooked in oil are traditional for the holiday, exactly what foods people eat during this time depend on where their fami- lies come from and the journeys photo by Rick Raasch, courtesy of the Skirball they’ve taken. L.A. band Mostly Kosher will perform klezmer music as part of the Additionally, at 3 p.m. on Dec. Skirball’s upcoming Hanukkah programming. 13, the Skirball will hold an online Hanukkah celebration on its music from L.A. band Mostly virtual game for prizes. YouTube channel. The streaming Kosher and psychedelic funk For more information, visit skir- photo courtesy of Judson Studios/Kyle Mickelson event will include a candle light- tunes from Israeli Gili Yalo. ball.org/programs/hanukkah-pro- Tim Carey and Judson Studios’ “Kobe” created in 2017 is 40 by 40 ing, a lively sing-along, klezmer Viewers can also participate in a grams. inches and made from fused glass. Spotlighting the legendary Arensberg art collection Forest Lawn Museum to present The Getty Research Institute and the Philadelphia Museum of Art exhibition with Judson Studios will hold a two-part virtual event In advance of the opening of Forest Lawn Museum Director exploring one of the most important the exhibition “Judson Studios: James Fishburne. private collections in the United Stained Glass from Gothic to The upcoming exhibition States of avant-garde and pre- Street Style” at Forest Lawn shines a new light on contempo- Columbian art. Museum, the museum joined rary and historic stained glass. During the first half of the 20th together with Judson studios last Founded in 1897, the Los century, Louise and Walter night, Dec. 9, for a virtual event Angeles-based studio has been a Arensberg carved out a unique celebrating the work. leader in the field of stained glass place in the history of collecting. As part of the online event, for more than 120 years. The From modern painting to which can be viewed on Forest exhibition includes nearly 100 Renaissance literature and pre- Lawn’s YouTube page, fifth gen- original stained glass artworks, Columbian sculpture, the eration president David Judson preparatory drawings, archival Arensbergs have created a collec- and writer Steffie Nelson, co- photographs, oil paintings, and tion that speaks to artistic creation authors of the new book watercolors, many of which have and intellectual exploration. “Judson: Innovation in Stained never before been exhibited. In this two-part event, Mark Glass,” talked about the 124-year For more information, visit Nelson, William Sherman, and old Highland Park studio with forestlawn.com. Ellen Hoobler, authors of the recently published book photo courtesy of the Getty "Hollywood Arensberg: Avant- The Getty and Philadelphia Museum of Art will virtually explore the col- Garde Collecting in Midcentury lection of Louse and Walter Arensberg L.A." (Getty Research Institute), discuss and illuminate the writers and curators. In 1950, the displayed in their Hollywood Arensbergs’ fascinating collection. couple gifted their collection of home. Happy Hanukkah Much has been made of the sig- avant-garde and Pre-Columbian art Drawing from this new research, nificance of how the Arensbergs’ to the Philadelphia Museum of Art. the discussion will also examine collection took shape in their When Louise and Walter died in how this display reflected the col- Manhattan apartment following the 1953 and 1954, respectively, their lecting tastes and worldview of the Armory Show in 1913 and of their rare books, manuscripts and per- Arensbergs. influential role as patrons in the sonal papers were gifted to Visit Philadelphia Museum of New York Dada circle. Until now, California's Francis Bacon Library Arts’ site to register in advance for less has been understood about how (now housed at the Huntington this free online event: philamuse- their collection expanded and Library). um.org/calendar/event/arensbergs- changed in character after their “Part I: The Arensbergs’ hollywood-house-museum. move to Los Angeles in 1921, par- Hollywood House-Museum” will “Part II: The Arensberg's ticularly after they purchased their take place on Tuesday, Dec. 15, Collection: Space, Place, Time” Hollywood home and turned it into from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Matthew will take place on Tuesday, March a house museum and research insti- Affron, the Philip and Muriel 9, 2021, from 3 to 4:30 p.m. In the tute. Berman Curator of Modern Art at second of two conversations, Mary Prior to the establishment of a the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Miller, director of the Getty public modern art museum in the will moderate the discussion with Research Institute, and authors region, the Arensbergs put the the authors as they share how they Mark Nelson, William H. Sherman European avant-garde, the English mined archival materials, including and Ellen Hoobler will explore how Renaissance and Mesoamerican at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the collection was shaped, assem- civilizations into dialogue in dense to uncover the unpublished history bled, displayed and interpreted. from your friendly, neighborhood Hardware Store and playful displays that shocked of the Arensberg collection on the Register in advance at and inspired visitors – including West coast, and ultimately recon- getty.zoom.us/webinar/register/W Family Owned and Operated Since 1961 some of the period’s leading artists, struct how the works of art were N_gTiIjKdlS2qoVPl6jV6cQQ. Hahn urges diversity in film tax credit program During the regular meeting of the Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences. “bonus points” to productions that California Film Commission, L.A. “Representation both in front of meet certain diversity standards. County Supervisor Janice Hahn, and behind the camera matters. We The program already awards bonus 4th District, called on her fellow have powerful tools at our disposal, points for filming at certain loca- commission members to update the and we need to do our part to tions and other standards deemed California Film Tax Credit Program encourage diversity and inclusion important. to reward productions that meet in the films, TV shows and com- The current tax credit program certain diversity standards. mercials that are awarded these includes $330 million of available 7769 Santa Monica Blvd. • West Hollywood Hahn said she hoped the program much-sought after tax credits,” tax credits for productions across could be modeled off the diversity Hahn said. the state. 323-656-7028 requirement announced in The California Film Tax Credit For information, visit September by the Academy of Program could be adjusted to award film.ca.gov. www.tashmans.com Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 25 December 10, 2020

Academy Museum reaches $388 million goal Children’s Bureau aims to prevent Bill Kramer, director and pres- child abuse with digital campaign ident of the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Children’s Bureau, a nonprofit Nearly 100 times a day, a child in Angeles, recently announced leader in child abuse prevention and California is placed in foster care that the new institution has treatment, launched an eight-week due to abuse or neglect. Over exceeded its pre-opening digital fundraising campaign in 33,000 of these children live in Los fundraising campaign goal of November to raise critical funds for Angeles and Orange Counties $388 million. This total encom- at-risk children and families strug- alone. Child abuse and its effects passes capital gifts, endow- gling to survive in the ongoing pan- have severely handicapped genera- ments, funding for education demic. tions of at-risk children and their programs and other special gifts. The Heroes of Hope Campaign families. By focusing on supporting A donation from Laika, the stop- shares real-life stories from families with young children, motion animation studio, moved Children’s Bureau heroes each Children’s Bureau is committed to the museum over the finish line, week, including dedicated staff breaking these cycles and prevent- closing out a campaign that was members and the children and fam- ing intergenerational abuse and launched in 2012. The campaign ilies being supported. Heroes of the neglect. is headed by chair Bob Iger and agency’s foster care and adoption Children’s Bureau aims to raise co-chairs Annette Bening and and mental health programs have $500,000 with this campaign and is Tom Hanks. been featured throughout the last seeking support through sponsor- More than 13,000 donors con- three weeks. ships, direct donations, peer-to-peer tributed to the Campaign for the For the month of December, the fundraising, and a silent auction Academy Museum, with gifts campaign will highlight the that will be live on the campaign's coming from individuals, corpo- agency’s primary child abuse pre- website Dec. 11. rations, foundations and govern- vention services. The featured To help boost the campaign’s ment entities. Cheryl and Haim heroes of prevention will include an efforts, former Children’s Bureau Saban made the largest contribu- educator from the Magnolia Place President and CEO Alex Morales tion with a transformative $50 Preschool, a parent participating in and his wife Martha have pledged million gift for which the Saban the Black Infant Health Program to match the first $100,000 in indi- Building (formerly a May and an agency staff member who vidual gifts through December 31. Company department store) was now works at the family resource “Making this legacy gift brings named. center in Santa Ana she attended as us great joy. Now is the time that “This is a great day for the photo by Joshua White/JW Pictures/©Academy Museum Foundation a child for its after-school activities. will yield the greatest benefit for Academy Museum and the entire Exhibits at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures include the “Prevention is about supporting a children and families,” Alex world of film,” campaign chair Eiffel Tower magic lantern by Louis Aubert, made of tin, paint, steel parent’s understanding of their Morales said. Bob Iger said. “Thanks to the and glass in Paris circa 1890. The lantern is from the Richard Balzer child’s development. It’s making “There are so many wonderful wonderful generosity of a broad Collection and is a gift of Patricia S. Bellinger. sure that children strengthen their heroes at Children's Bureau whom community of donors, and to the social and emotional skills. It’s we know and treasure, and we are commitment of co-chairs helping to make the Academy’s New donors to the Pillar about connecting families to com- especially thankful for all the new Annette Bening and Tom Hanks, long-held dream of building the Campaign, co-chaired by muse- munity resources to live comfort- heroes who will join Children's we have proudly achieved our world’s premier film museum a um trustees Laura Dern and ably and connecting them to each Bureau to steward and realize its goal. The way ahead is clear, as reality.” Kimberly Steward, which names other for support and encourage- bold vision,” he added, we move at full speed toward an Newly named at the Academy the support columns in the Saban ment,” said Jose Ramos, senior To watch the campaign or to unforgettable grand opening in Museum is the Laika Gallery, Building, include Julia and Ken director of prevention at Children’s donate, visit childrensbu- April 2021.” dedicated to special collections, Gouw in honor of Miyoshi Bureau. reauheroes.org. “Closing this fundraising cam- which will debut with “The Path Umeki, the Oneida Indian paign is an important and excit- to Cinema: Highlights from the Nation, New York in honor of ing milestone for the Academy Richard Balzer Collection.” This Native American musician and Museum,” Kramer said. “We are exhibition will showcase the advocate Buffy Sainte-Marie as deeply grateful to our campaign world’s foremost collection pre- well as Kimberly Steward and K leadership and to our trustees, cinema artifacts. Metro Goldwyn Period Media in honor of Hattie donors and partners who have Mayer is providing support for McDaniel. made important commitments to the museum’s core exhibition, For information, visit acade- the campaign. Their support is “Stories of Cinema.” mymuseum.org. The Getty presents ‘The Black Index’ in January The Getty will feature artist Lava Thomas in conversation with pro- fessor Leigh Raiford and artist Whitfield Lovell in conversation with curator LeRonn Brooks as part of its upcoming online exhibition, “The Black Index.” Thomas is an artist who tackles issues of race, gender, representa- tion, and memorialization through a multidisciplinary practice that spans drawing, painting, photogra- phy, sculpture, and site-specific installations. The exhibit is curated by Bridget Cooks at the Contemporary Art Center Gallery, the University of California, Irvine, and the accom- panying “Black Index: Artists in Conversation” will explore the sig- nificance of the artists’ work fea- tured in the exhibition along with the role of Black artistic practice within the current moment of polit- photo courtesy of Lava Thomas and Rena Bransten Gallery ical and social turmoil. Organized Artist Lava Thomas painted “Mugshot Portrait of the Montgomery Bus by the University of California, Boycott, Alberta J. James” in 2018. Irvine, in partnership with Getty Research Institute’s African University of California, Berkeley. Experience the virtual exhibition American Art History Initiative, Lovell is an artist internationally The Black Index can be viewed at this event is made possible in part renowned for installations that uag.arts.uci.edu starting Jan. 9 through the generous support of the incorporate masterful Conté crayon through March 19, 2021. University of California portraits of anonymous African For more information on the Humanities Research Institute. Americans who lived between the upcoming talks, visit Cooks is an associate professor in Emancipation Proclamation and the https://www.getty.edu/research/exh the Department of African Civil Rights Movement. ibitions_events/. American Studies and the Brooks is the associate curator The conversation will be avail- Department of Art History at the for Modern and Contemporary able on Getty Research Institute's University of California, Irvine. Collections (specializing in African YouTube channel following the Raiford is an associate professor American collections) at the Getty event. of African American Studies at the Research Institute. Visit getty.edu for information. 26 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

“Nobody is a bigger believer in already been overturned by the local control that I am, but this is court. Business groups push back on state regulations one element where we should be “In essence, the county’s order is From page 1 looking to act in a countywide man- going to expire. They are not going ner and avoid Balkanization … It’s to be permitted to reinstate that the county’s prohibition of outdoor explored by Deputy City Manager whether the city could assert going to be extremely expensive. county order until they do the dining. Gabriella Yap. responsibility over particular ser- We know we don’t have economy research and have the data present- That conversation continued on One of the most prominent topics vices handled by the county – of scale. You lose that [with fewer ed. However, it’s a moot point right Dec. 8 with a focus on the city during the discussion was funding. everything from disease control to constituents],” Mirisch said. now because the state order takes potentially creating its own health The Los Angeles County statistics and laboratory services to Vice Mayor Robert Wunderlich over and everything is shut down department, which ostensibly Department of Public Health is family planning – or if the city also expressed doubts with the anyway,” Friedman said. would have allowed outdoor dining funded through taxes, and it would have to take on all of those expected high costs of creating an In the meantime, local chambers in the city to continue until the state remains unclear if the city would be responsibilities or contract an out- entire new city department and the of commerce are coming together on imposed its stay-at-home order. able to recapture the funding that side organization to do so. If the city potential downsides of decentraliz- Saturday, Dec. 12, to march in favor That was the case in Pasadena, goes to the county’s health depart- has to assume all such responsibili- ing public health officials. of allowing businesses to reopen which has its own health depart- ment if the city were to create its ties, Gold said he’s “not sure there safely. The march, which begins at ment. own, Yap said. would be much benefit at all” to noon at the TCL Chinese Theatre, Though there is a desire by some “I have to believe that some- breaking away. Local chambers of 6925 Hollywood Blvd., will require council members to create a sepa- where embedded in this equation is “I think it would be difficult and mask-wearing and physical distanc- rate public health department for our cost for public health,” said expensive for us to absorb them all, commerce are ing, and supporters are encouraged Beverly Hills – or at least a depart- Councilman Julian Gold, a propo- vector control and animal control coming together on to wear green in support of the ment for a handful of nearby cities nent of the idea. “Not only should for that matter, some of the tracing movement. Participating organiza- that would also seek to leave the we figure out what that whole num- things … As supportive as I am, I Saturday, Dec. 12, tions include the West Hollywood, jurisdiction of the Los Angeles ber is, but how they break that think we have to be realistic in to march Beverly Hills and Hollywood cham- County Department of Public down, so if we decide to move for- terms of what our abilities to in favor of allowing bers of commerce. Health – significant hurdles remain. ward and there are certain services achieve this are … We need to be Rana Ghadban, president and The council members raised multi- we can provide, we can figure out mindful of the fact that this is the businesses to CEO of the Hollywood Chamber of ple questions they would like what we’d still be paying the coun- kind of thing that could cost a ton of reopen safely. The Commerce, said the court ruling answered before discussions could ty and what our cost would be.” money, as well as resources and march ... begins at against the county was a good first continue. Those questions will be City staff will also investigate staff, if we want to do it well,” Gold step, but the state restrictions on said. noon at the TCL outdoor dining should also change. Councilwoman Lili Bosse, Chinese Theatre, “If the county didn’t have data to another strong proponent of explor- 6925 Hollywood support the shutdown of outdoor ing the creation of a separate health dining, I don’t know how the state department, agreed that “if we were Blvd. does,” Ghadban said. to do it, we need to do it right.” She The coalition of approximately also noted that the creation of a sep- 40 business organizations are hop- arate health department would be in ing to lobby Gov. Gavin Newsom line with the city’s stated priority of “Public health is something with and other state leaders to affect being a healthy city. which you’d want coordinated change, and the Dec. 12 march aims “We want to be among the actions … It’s true that one size to get their attention. healthiest cities in the world … I does not fit all, but at the same time, “We’re doing everything we can think it’s a tremendous priority, and you’d want regional cooperation … to ensure that everyone is socially I think we need to explore this, and I do not see this as a high current distant, wears masks and is very not only explore it, but make it hap- priority for us … We’d be better off considerate of the seriousness of the pen,” Bosse said. spending our time, effort, expertise pandemic, but at the same time The other council members, how- on things to promote [public health] express our frustration as a business ever, were not as fervently in sup- than we would building a bureau- community and how our state and port of the idea. Councilman John cracy,” Wunderlich said. county has handled this order, and rendering courtesy of LeFrak Mirisch, who on Dec. 1 criticized While the discussion will contin- how impacted thousands and thou- The Hollywood and Wilcox project will create 260 new housing units portions of the discussion, reiterated ue with more information in the sand of people’s livelihoods are,” in Hollywood, including 21 affordable units in the building and fund- his stance that creating a separate future, Mayor Lester Friedman reit- Ghadban said. ing for affordable housing elsewhere. health department from the county erated that while the conversation For information, visit would be “a knee-jerk overreac- began in response to the county’s wehochamber.com/takeactionto- Attie Building may house tion.” restrictions, those rules have day.html. retail, restaurant, office CHLA welcomes five new board members From page 1 Last month, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles announced the election of [comments from the public meets the housing needs of the of four new independent members – and the city],” Twerdun said – city,” said Craig Bullock, Diana M. Bontá, George H. Brown, but many of the amenities, O’Farrell’s planning director, in a Byron Pollitt and Sheri Sani – and including nearly 34,000 square letter to the council’s Planning the appointment of one new ex-offi- feet of open space, rooftop ter- and Land Use Management cio member – Dr. Matthew S. races, a pool deck and 420 park- Committee. Keefer – to the CHLA Board of ing spaces, will remain for the Twerdun said the changes Directors, which establishes and residents of 260 housing units. In were made to reflect how “the guides the vision, mission and goals March, Twerdun said LeFrak needs of the community changed of one of the top pediatric academic planned to set aside 10% of the over time.” medical centers in the United 260 units for affordable housing; “We recognize that there is a States. now, however, 21 units – 8% – great need for affordable housing “I am thrilled to welcome the will be affordable housing, in the community … This was a depth of leadership, as well as the though a financial contribution deal that worked for both the pro- diversity of personal and profes- will be used to create more ject and the City Council office,” sional experience, that these new affordable housing elsewhere. Twerdun said. directors bring to our team,” photos courtesy of CHLA The affordable housing With the changes in place, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Diana M. Bontá, George H. Brown, Dr. Matthew S. Keefer, Byron Pollitt changes were worked out with O’Farrell lent his support to the Board Chair Jeffrey Worthe said. and Sheri Sani were elected to the Children’s Hospital Board of Directors. the office of Councilman Mitch project. “Each has a proven track record as O’Farrell, 13th District, who “The project will bring much a tireless advocate for the health and sor at UCLA School of Law and officer and president of the CHLA suggested changing the pro- needed housing, especially well-being of infants, children and adjunct at UC Berkeley School of Medical Group, the largest pediatric posed allotment. Instead of 10% affordable housing, to the city of youth, and I am grateful for the Law. multispecialty medical group in the for workforce housing – house- Los Angeles,” Bullock said. unique and valuable expertise each Pollitt is a retired senior execu- United States. holds making up to 150% of Construction will likely not brings in support of CHLA’s mis- tive with more than 20 years of The CHLA Board of Directors area median income – the pro- begin for at least a year, Twerdun sion to create hope and build health- experience as a chief financial offi- consists of community leaders as ject will include 13 units for said, as LeFrak still needs to have ier futures for our patients and fam- cer, most recently as executive vice well as organizational executive low-income households, eight its construction plans approved by ilies.” president and CFO of Visa Inc. and physician leaders who provide units for moderate-income the city. Those plans will be revised Bontá is president and CEO of Sani is a longstanding supporter oversight of executive manage- households and a contribution of over 2021, with a “target to start the Bontá Group and an adjunct of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles ment, strategy, clinical quality, $1.664 million to the Council construction in 2022,” he said. professor in the UCLA Fielding who has served for a decade as a finance, compliance, research and District 13 Affordable Housing “We’re very grateful for the School of Public Health’s member and leader of the CHLA academic training. Trust Fund. support that we received from the Department of Community Health Westside Guild, one of the oldest Independent board directors are “[This payment] will allow community, both professional Sciences. volunteer charitable organizations elected to serve three-year terms; funds to be allocated to develop organizations and groups within Brown is an expert in accounting, dedicated to supporting the hospi- ex-officio members are appointed additional housing units at the community such as the economic and finance law who tal. for a term consistent with the dura- affordability levels below work- [Hollywood Chamber of throughout his career specialized in Keefer is an attending physician tion of their leadership role. force housing or to extend Commerce], business leaders in complex multi party disputes. He is in the Department of Pediatrics at CHLA is located at 4650 Sunset covenants of existing affordable the community and residents as a retired partner with Gibson, Dunn Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Blvd. For information, visit housing. This proposal better well,” Twerdun said. & Crutcher LLP, former law profes- CHLA’s chief medical informatics chla.org. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 27 December 10, 2020 Donations needed by local nonprofits, charities From page 1 collection and distribution during District Office, 1722 Sunset Blvd. need,” Ghadban said. “We are the holidays. A common method Residents who live in the 13th happy to continue doing the work this year is to host a virtual food District can register by calling or we have been doing, which is con- drive. A web page is created and texting (213)246-2471, or emailing necting people in the community people donate money for specific Julio Ramos at [email protected]. with our local nonprofits. Once we foods. LARF offers free assistance “This holiday season is unlike get a donation request, we send an to nonprofits and organizations, and any other as we forgo our tradition- email out to the 100 nonprofits who the webpages can include a logo and al gatherings with family and work with the chamber to coordi- messaging tailored to supporters. friends to keep our loved ones safe nate the donation.” “If an organization wants to hold and do our part to reduce the spread The All Saints’ Church in Beverly a drive, maybe a library or a church of the coronavirus,” O’Farrell said. Hills is also holding a food drive photo courtesy of Ryan Black or synagogue, we will make a web- “This pandemic has presented every Sunday from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at The Toy Box Party has provided holidays gifts for families through APLA Health page for that,” May said. “People unprecedented challenges in 2020, 504 N. Camden Drive. Donors can for 25 years, and celebrities such as Kelly Osbourne, center, have participated. can also still come by and drop off which is why I’d like to encourage drive up and safely drop off nonper- groceries, but there are many other folks to support their favorite local ishable food items, hygiene prod- Angel Food does not accept food but we still need toys. Any help ways to help.” charities and nonprofits in the 13th ucts, diapers, toilet paper and paper donations, but volunteers are need- people can give is appreciated.” May also said volunteers are District who are continuing the towels, as well as perishable foods ed for other projects including The city of West Hollywood and needed for packaging food and work to ensure that every Angeleno such as fruits and vegetables. The Telephone Angels, which pairs a the West Hollywood Sheriff’s preparing it for distribution at the has food on their tables during this donations benefit Upward Bound volunteer with a Project Angel Station are also accepting donations food bank’s warehouses, and at difficult time. We will get through House in Santa Monica and Culver Food client for regular phone calls for people in need during the holi- community distribution events. He this together.” City, which temporarily house fam- to reduce isolation. For informa- days. In compliance with public encouraged people to visit lafood- Rana Ghadban, president and ilies, and the Pride Pantry at the tion, visit angelfood.org. health orders, gift cards will be dis- bank.org/wefeedla. CEO of the Hollywood Chamber of Triangle Building, which provides In addition to food, toy donations tributed instead of toys and cloth- Los Angeles City Councilman Commerce, said the organization food to the LGBTQ seniors, as well are needed for distribution to fami- ing. The goal is to support 1,000 Mitch O’Farrell, 13th District, is has been helping people in need as individuals. Some items are kept lies during the holidays. Ryan families. Donations can be made also offering help during the holiday throughout the pandemic and will at the church and offered to home- Black, who founded the Toy Box through Friday, Dec. 18, by visiting season. He is partnering with the continue during the holidays. She less individuals in the surrounding Party L.A. with his late husband weho.org/holidaydrive. Salvadoran American Leadership said restaurants, businesses and community. For information, call Dana Miller 25 years ago, said toy “For the past 29 years, the gener- and Educational Fund and individuals wishing to donate food (310)275-0123, or email info@all- donations are being accepted ous contribution of toys and cloth- Sustainable Economic Enterprises can email info@hollywoodcham- saintsbh.org. through Dec. 16 for distribution to ing from local businesses and indi- of Los Angeles to host a monthly ber.net for information. Project Angel Food is seeking clients of APLA Health. Toys can viduals has helped provide more food box distribution for residents “People who want to make food support during the holidays, as the be dropped off at multiple loca- than 9,400 local families with a hol- of his district. The next distribution donations are welcome to contact pandemic has caused a dramatic tions, including at APLA Health’s iday meal, as well as two toys for will be held on Friday, Dec. 18, us because we can redirect them to increase in requests for meals, said David Geffen Center at 611 S. every child in the family,” West from 10 a.m. to noon at O’Farrell’s the nonprofits that are most in spokesman Brad Bessey. Project Kingsley Drive, and APLA Health Hollywood Mayor Lindsey clinic at 5901 W. Olympic Blvd., Horvath said. “The people of the Ste. 310. For information, visit city of West Hollywood never cease aplahealth.org/toybox. to amaze me with their kindness. Hanukkah celebrations go virtual this year “We do it every year by word of While we are celebrating different- mouth, and it’s a very important ly this year due to the unprecedent- From page 1 thing,” said Black, who is chairman ed global coronavirus pandemic, eight-night festival of lights – in from the safety of their cars. pling with the impact of this of the event. “Obviously this year, we can still make the holidays a lit- addition to the Maccabees’ strug- For the upcoming Friday night dreadful pandemic … we’re try- we are not able to hold the party, tle brighter for families in need.” gle for religious freedom serving service, Nickerson said he planned ing to find ways to stay safe, keep as a powerful reminder for mod- to speak about the idea of miracles active and keep each other con- ern American Jews that they even and the history of vaccines. nected virtually,” Baron said. have the ability to freely celebrate “Our tradition figured out a way “Heritage teaches us the lessons – offered a particularly poignant to take this miracle and put it as a of survival and resilience.” reminder of the need for people to sign of hope and optimism,” he said. Inside the home, opportunities reflect. “We should continue to believe in abound to play dreidel games, In adapting the story for today, miracles and we should continue to light the menorah and celebrate Aaron likened the historic initial find hope in a dark time.” with unique takes on recipes for lighting of the candelabra to mod- “This time of gift-giving is not using hot oil, such as traditional ern-day human beings taking the just about about physical giving potato pancakes (essentially, first steps to create a vaccine for and giving toys, but what are the flour, eggs and potatoes), blintzes the coronavirus, with God per- gifts we can give to the world and (thin crepes made from flour, milk forming the miracle of achieving how can we harness that and how and eggs enfolding farmer’s photo courtesy of “The Christmas Caroler Challenge” the vaccine. can we turn a corner … and max- cheese) and sufganiyot (jelly Laura McKenzie and Dean Cain will host the annual competition to In his Friday night service, imize our own gifts,” he added. doughnuts). Aaron said he will be asking con- In leading the upcoming Friday In addition, several rabbis crown the kings and queens of caroling. gregants to consider what leaps night Shabbat service, emphasized the importance of per- they need to make this year to Congregation Kol Ami Rabbi forming mitzvahs (good deeds) ensure they are maximizing their Max Chaiken said he plans to during this time, such as giving Vocal groups face off in “light.” highlight how people can bring back to the community by support- “That first day is the miracle of light to each other with their pres- ing meal-delivery programs for the human beings, it was their courage ence online. homeless and those in need. Christmas caroling competition to light the candelabra,” Aaron “The story of the Maccabees is Options abound for online said, characterizing the initial one of perseverance through hard engagement at all religious insti- “The Christmas Caroler The 10 groups competing include menorah lighting as a “leap of times. That’s what we’re doing tutions as well as various locales Challenge” returns for a three- Raise, the Accidentals, the faith” to make things better. now and that’s what we’re trying throughout the city, which have episode Christmas caroling compe- Sugarplums, Jolly Holidays, Jingle “What’s the leap I need to make to lift up and illuminate in the pivoted online in response to the tition on Fridays, Dec. 11, 18 and 5, Newfangled Four, Yuletones, that first night and have God join world,” he said. “I think the sym- coronavirus. 25, from 8 to 10 p.m., on the CW. Decorations, Snow Problems and me in the miracle of the rest of it?” bolism of light and bringing light In tandem with its 40th Hosted by Dean Cain and Laura Four Calling Birds. The show will Wilshire Boulevard Temple into the world is an important Anniversary Gala, the Sephardic McKenzie and produced by also include special performances Rabbi Joel Nickerson emphasized aspect of the holiday.” Educational Center will hold a Associated Television International, by the celebrity judges with Ashen the importance of the upcoming In addition to celebrating the virtual Hanukkah candle lighting the series will feature 10 extraordi- Moon and the Third Marine Aircraft holiday, which is held during a peri- light at home, Chaiken said the on Dec. 15. For information, visit nary caroling groups. Each will pre- Wing Band, Voices In Flight. od of the year with the least sun- West Hollywood temple will offer sephardiceducationalcenter.org. sent stylized virtuoso performances For information, visit light, in bringing light to the world. ways for congregants to engage Hollywood Temple Beth El is based on classic Christmas music. cwtvpr.com/the-cw/shows/the- “So many people are having online, including a Hanukkah- offering multiple online events, Celebrities Brandon Rogers, christmas-caroler-challenge/about. dark moments,” he said. “How themed cooking class on Saturday including a “Shabbat Chanukah” Mikalah Gordon and Garry Gary can we bring the light in our spe- night. followed by “Chanukah Beers will judge the competition, cial unique way to the world For Beverly Hills Temple of the Jeopardy” on Saturday, Dec. 12, with several caroling groups being Answers From Page 22 around us? How can we spread Arts Rabbi David Baron, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Live eliminated in each episode. The that light, optimism and hope to Hanukkah offers Jews an oppor- streaming is available to the gen- finals will be held on Dec. 25, cul- the world around us?” tunity to keep their commitment eral public at minating with the announcement of To safely celebrate during this alive. facebook.com/htbel/live and on the grand prize winner. time, Nickerson said the temple “I think the important message the temple’s YouTube page. On The winning caroling group will planned to do “eight crazy quaran- is what imbued the Maccabees to Dec. 17, the final night of be awarded a grand prize trophy and tined nights” with either socially fight for freedom and that is the Hanukkah, the temple will also an opportunity to appear and per- distanced or online opportunities light of faith,” he said. host a group menorah lighting and form in the 90th Annual Hollywood for the community to engage. On The holiday is also an opportu- musical sing-along on Zoom at Christmas Parade supporting Sunday, Dec. 13, for example, the nity for people to consider those 7:30 p.m. For more information, Marine Toys for Tots in 2021. One- temple will host a drive-in concert, who are less fortunate, he empha- visit eventbrite.com/e/8-lights-on- thousand toys will also be donated where families will have the sized, and take action to help. the-8th-night-of-chanukah-tick- to Marine Toys for Tots in the name opportunity to listen to live music “This year, as families are grap- ets-131306594559. of the winning caroling group, 28 December 10, 2020 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press