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• Capitol riot update pg. 4 Rain, with • Guaranteed highs in the income coming to 60s WeHo? pg. 5

Volume 31 No. 4 Serving the Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Hancock Park and Wilshire Communities January 28, 2021 Term limits coming to BH? n Voters could consider measure in November Concerns aired over Olympia closure n Despite outcry over BY CAMERON KISZLA limits … I think there are pros and sale, public officials cons of long-standing service … If The Beverly Hills City Council [voters] really like somebody, why face limited options took the first steps toward enacting shouldn’t they be able to have a per- term limits for city officials during son continue to serve in a posi- BY EDWIN FOLVEN a Jan. 26 study session. tion?” Vice Mayor Robert The council agreed on a general Wunderlich said. The Los Angeles County framework for a three-term limit for Despite his reservations, Emergency Medical Services members of the City Council and Wunderlich and the other council Commission held a virtual public the city treasurer, also a publicly members said the decision should hearing on Jan. 27 to consider the elected position. The decision was ultimately be left to the people of closure of Olympia Medical made despite the differing opinions Beverly Hills. If the council Center, which has announced that of several council members. it will discontinue services after “I’m generally not a fan of term See BH page 21 March 31. At the end of the hear- ing, the commission recommended a six-month delay in the closure.

The public hearing was photo by Cameron Kiszla required for informational purpos- Olympia Medical Center was sold to UCLA Health last year. es for the county and to provide an opportunity for interested citizens to comment. The commission’s renovate the medical center’s Despite reports of the COVID- recommendations are nonbinding campus and possibly convert it 19 pandemic straining health care and will be sent to the Los into a facility specializing in men- services nationwide, Sarrao said Angeles County Board of tal and behavioral health services. Olympia Medical Center has not Supervisors for consideration. Attorney Michael Sarrao, who experienced a significant increase Olympia Medical Center, which identified himself as executive in patient volumes. The daily is operated by Olympia vice president of Olympia number of patients at Olympia Healthcare LLC, a subsidiary of Healthcare LLC, said the sale of Medical Center remains at Irvine-based Alecto Health the hospital had been under con- approximately 60-70, he said. The Services, sold the property at 5900 sideration for at least a year to 18 number of COVID-19 patients Olympic Blvd. to UCLA Health months. It was strictly a business being treated was not specified. photo by Edwin Folven for an undisclosed amount. UCLA decision to address difficulties See page The Beverly Hills City Council may put a term limits ballot measure to the voters. Health has announced plans to with profitability, he said. Olympia 22 WeHo off-leash dog area leaps forward Outdoor dining to reopen n City to open third dog park tomorrow in L.A. County BY LAURA COLEMAN n Leaders praise the Board of Supervisors on Jan. progress, urge caution 26. West Hollywood pups will soon “We’re encouraged particular- have an opportunity to frolic freely BY CAMERON KISZLA ly by the significant reduction, at in a new off-leash dog play area in this point, in daily cases … Our death rate, unfortunately, remains Plummer Park following a unani- The pandemic outlook for very high … We’re still going to mous vote by the City Council. California is improving, and on see a high number of deaths for a The council approved the prelim- Jan. 25, Gov. Gavin Newsom lift- couple of weeks to come, but I’m inary plan for a pilot program on ed statewide stay-at-home orders. hoping that as we get into the Jan. 19 as part of the city’s long- In Los Angeles County, COVID- month of February, our death rate term plans to redevelop Plummer 19 is similarly lessening, Los will also come down significant- Park. Staff will need to return to Angeles County Department of council with a proposal that Public Health Barbara Ferrer told See Restaurants page 21 includes a site plan and budget for final consideration. “So many people during the pan- demic and the stay-at-home order photo by Jon Viscott/courtesy of the city of West Hollywood West Hollywood Park includes an off-leash dog park. have been adopting dogs and they have become more important in our lives than they ever were,” allowed their dogs to use the park park – and the only one on the east Mayor Pro Tempore Lauren off-leash, despite it being illegal. side. Both the West Hollywood Park Meister said. “The idea is to try to “I just really thought it was Dog Park on San Vicente Boulevard do something for people during the important to give [residents] a place and the William S. Hart Dog Park pandemic that they’ll enjoy and it’s to go socialize with their dogs and on De Longpre Avenue offer off- outside and people can be out there for their dogs to socialize in a safe leash spaces for canines to play. with their masks socializing with environment where it would be Meister estimated that the city their dogs.” legal to take your dog off leash,” would move forward in creating the Meister characterized the park as she added. pilot in the next several months. a backyard for nearby residents, Once established, the new off- “Given the density of West photo by Cameron Kiszla Before they were forced to cease outdoor dining, many restaurants most of whom live in apartments. leash play area in Plummer Park She said that many people already would become the city’s third dog See Dog page 22 invested in equipment to create a more pleasant dining experience. 2 January 28, 2021 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press CALENDAR City honors Tom LaBonge by Ethan Kross’ ‘Sound of Metal’ The Broad Stage American Cinematheque welcomes ‘Chatter’ director Darius Marder and stars Riz celebrates dance naming peak in Griffith Park Join Ethan Kross for an online dis- Ahmed, Olivia Cooke and Paul Raci The Broad Stage and Dance Camera Mayor Eric Garcetti on cussion on his new book “Chatter: for an online discussion of the film West have announced the winners of Jan. 27 announced the estab- The Voice in Our Head and How to “Sound of Metal” on Friday, Jan. 29 the Dance Camera West Drive-In, lishment of Tom LaBonge Harness It” with journalist Phoebe at 6 p.m., via Zoom. The music- Best of the Festival. They will be fea- Summit in historic Griffith Lovatt on Thursday, Jan. 28, from 7 filled drama follows a rock drummer tured in Best of Fest and Outstanding to 8 p.m. Tuning Achievement Park, joining the LaBonge challenged by hearing loss and into our inner Award films pre- family in honoring the late addiction. RSVP by visiting voice and the eventbrite.com/e/sound-of-metal- sented in a drive- councilman’s life and legacy. silent conversa- virtual-qa-with-director-stars-tick- in experience LaBonge died on Jan. 7 at tions we have with two differ- ets-135611685201. the age of 67. with ourselves ent programs on Nothing was closer to for- reveals a power- Saturday, Jan. mer LaBonge’s heart than ful force that Robey Theatre 30, and Sunday, the hikes, trails and hills of shapes our lives. Jan. 31, at the Griffith Park, Garcetti said. Considered one of the world’s lead- Company Santa Monica College Bundy Renaming Mount ing psychologists of the conscious The Robey Theatre Company’s ongo- Campus, East Parking Lot. Award Hollywood Summit in his mind, Kross has spent decades ing Evening Conversation series will winners Henrique Pina and Adi memory is a fitting tribute to researching the hidden power of feature a discussion on COVID-19 on Halfin’s films will be shown in his decades of service to the internal monologues and how they Friday, Jan. 29 at 6 p.m., via Zoom. Program A and B, and Best of the city of Los Angeles, he can help people live healthier, more The presentation will be moderated Fest winners Robbie Synge and added. satisfying and productive lives. by Millena Gay, chair of the Robey Garry Stewart will be featured in “Our city lost a giant, a Creative Content Committee and spe- Program B only. Showtimes for leader who brought so much cial events producer, and will feature Program A are Jan. 30, at 5:30 p.m., energy, enthusiasm, decency Omar Offendum Dr. Roshonda Clemons, a practicing and Jan. 31, at 8 p.m. Showtimes for physician specializing in Pediatrics; Program B are Jan. 30, at 8 p.m. and and passion to the task of photo by Edwin Folven Katherine Conte, director of STEM Jan. 31, at 5:30 p.m. Single screening building a stronger, safer, The summit will be named after former and Thanks Joey fairer city,” Garcetti said. UCLA’s Center for the Art of partnerships and outreach for tickets are $45 per car. 3171 S. Bundy Councilman Tom LaBonge, shown here in American University; Matthew “Tom held such genuine Performance is holding the fourth Drive. thebroadstage.org/dancecam- 2012 in front of one of the many other Conte, a principal investigator in viral erawest. affection for everyone he installment of L.A. Omnibus, with landmarks in Griffith Park. Omar Offendum and Thanks Joey, on genetics and emerging diseases for met and served, and he loved Thursday, Jan. 28, at 7 p.m., on CAP the Viral Diseases Branch at Walter the beauty, diversity and UCLA Online. Offendum is a Syrian- Reed Army Institute of Research; dynamism of Los Angeles, and joseph-labonge. ‘Extinction’ American rapper and spoken word Crystal Antoinette Graham, a patient Enjoy an L.A. Theatre Works audio there’s no better way to remember, Given the spread of COVID-19, artist known for a unique blend of advocate; and Dr. Curtrina Strozier, theater presentation of “Extinction,” a honor and cherish him than to for- the LaBonge family will hold a pri- hip-hop and Arabic poetry. Thanks an obstetrician/gynecologist at St. new play by ever attach his name to his beloved vate memorial in the days ahead; as Joey is a music producer and inde- Francis OB/GYN Physician Partners. Australian play- Griffith Park, our crown jewel.” soon as it is safe to do so, a larger, pendent multimedia arts label owner Admission is free. Submit questions wright and news- Since his passing three weeks public gathering will be organized. from Brooklyn, New York. The con- by e-mailing info@therobeytheatre- paper columnist ago, constituents, neighbors and Until that is possible, anyone wish- versation will be livestreamed at company.org. To register visit ther- Hannie Rayson,

Angelenos from every walk of life ing to make a contribution in online.cap.ucla.edu. obeytheatrecompany.org/our-events. available online have shared warm wishes, memo- LaBonge’s honor is asked to sup- beginning on ries and tributes to LaBonge, a port the Tom LaBonge Memorial Sunday, Jan. 31. reminder of how many people he Fund for Griffith Park at laparks- Women’s art Joanna Cassidy The previously- touched, inspired and moved over foundation.org/donations/donate. Galerie XII Los Angeles announces B5 Events presents Joanna Cassidy in recorded work stars Sarah Drew the course of his career. Any L.A. As many knew, LaBonge walked “Women.On.Women,” an exhibition “The Eternal,” an (“Grey’s Anatomy”), Seamus Dever residents, friends and admirers who through Griffith Park daily, explor- on display from Thursday, Jan. 28, online perfor- (“Castle”), Joanne Whalley wish to add their condolences and ing every view, pathway and vista, through Saturday, April 10, at mance on (“Daredevil,” “The White Princess”) stories are encouraged to do so by and he gave his soul to the city, Bergamot Station Arts Center in Saturday, Jan. 30, and Darren Richardson visiting mckenziemortuaryser- Garcetti said. Santa Monica. The exhibit will be on at 10 a.m. Cassidy (“Hollywood”) in a story about the vices.com/in-memoriam-thomas- “To keep his memory alive, the display by appointment and available has starred in urgent need to combat climate change family has urged residents and for viewing online. The show about films including to protect biodiversity. “Extinction” community members to do what women and by women showcases the “Blade Runner” is part of L.A. Theatre Works’ Tom always urged them to do – in works of artists Patty Carroll, Maia and the TV series Relativity Series of science-themed “Star Trek: Enterprise.” Join her for his words, ‘let’s continue to enjoy Flore, Mona Kuhn, Ziqian Liu and plays, with lead funding by the Alfred an evening of music. Tickets are P. Sloan Foundation. The cost is $20. and love Los Angeles’,” Garcetti Anja Niemi. 2525 Michigan Ave., Ste. B2. galeriexii.com. $29.99. b5events.com. latw.org/digital-season. added.

Founded 1946 P.O. BOX 36036 LOS ANGELES, CA 90036 (323)933-5518 O’Farrell announces new round 8444 WILSHIRE BLVD. BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90211 of grants for small businesses BEVERLYPRESS.COM Los Angeles City Councilman Businesses that applied but did Michael Villalpando Mitch O’Farrell and the city’s not qualify for the first round of PUBLISHER Economic and Workforce funding last year due to the revenue Development Department have requirements will be automatically Karen Villalpando announced a second round of grant entered into this next phase of grant EDITOR & PUBLISHER funding available to small business- funding. An email will be sent to es in the 13th District. those businesses to alert them of Edwin Folven The next round of funding will their status in the program. [email protected] be open to a wider group of small “Our small businesses continue EDITOR business owners due to an increase to feel the impacts and uncertainty in the revenue cap requirements. of the coronavirus pandemic,” Cameron Kiszla During the second phase, small O’Farrell said. “This financial [email protected] businesses located in the 13th assistance for even more neighbor- REPORTER District with annual revenues of up hood-based establishments will to $5 million will qualify for the help pay bills, retain workers and Laura Coleman grant funding. Businesses can enable the backbone of our local [email protected] receive $5,000 grants. economy to survive.” REPORTER O’Farrell allocated $1 million in Applicants will be required to discretionary funding to start the have an established business in the Jill Weinlein, grant program last July. The pro- 13th District and active status with Tim Posada, gram helps small businesses in the the California Secretary of State. Rebecca Villalpando, 13th District pay bills during and Owners must provide required Emily Jilg after the COVID-19 pandemic. The application documents (current CONTRIBUTING WRITERS funding would have normally been BTRC, W-9, etc.), must have an used for other purposes such as annual gross revenue of up to $5 The Park Labrea News and Beverly Press are weekly newspapers, published on Thursdays. Mail public infrastructure projects. The million, and have an established subscription is $120 annually. Decreed newspa- program will be administered in commercial location. Acelera pers of general circulation, entitled to publish legal partnership with EWDD. Financial is providing technical advertising, Feb. 10, 1960 by Superior Court Order No 736637. Decreed newspapers of general Online applications will be assistance and can answer ques- circulation, entitled to publish legal advertising in accepted today, Jan. 28, at 8 a.m., tions about the application process. the City of Beverly Hills and the County of Los Angeles, Dec. 22, 2020 by Superior Court Case through Thursday, Feb. 4, at 5 p.m.. For information, call (213)410- Number 19STCP04891. Government Code 6008. For a link to the application, visit 5099, or email tw@acelerafinan- cd13.com. cial.com. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 3 January 28, 2021 WeHo grocery store workers may get hazard pay n City might consider During the meeting, however, the cific draft ordinance for considera- West Hollywood Chamber of tion in February. ordinance in February Commerce made clear its opposi- Rimedio and Morrill also tion to the hazard pay ordinance. expressed concern about the finan- BY CAMERON KISZLA Among the concerns raised by the cial burden on grocery stores. chamber’s President and CEO “It could drive business away The West Hollywood City Genevieve Morrill and Chair Nick from West Hollywood, and that’s Council may require an additional Rimedio were that local govern- not what we need. The thought here $5 per hour for grocery store work- ments could be overstepping their is well-intended, and I know our ers in hazard pay on top of their role by directing private businesses council members are concerned for standard wages. to pay their employees more. the safety and welfare of our work- On Jan. 19, the council began the West Hollywood is not alone in ers, as well as the people who are process, directing the city attorney considering or granting additional patronizing their stores, but the to draft an ordinance that would pay for grocery store workers. As great concern remains,” Rimedio require all grocery stores in the city the city staff report noted, several of said. pay their employees an additional the chains offered an additional $2 In an interview, Morrill said gro- photo by Cameron Kiszla $5 per hour until the pandemic- or $4 per hour in “hero pay” during cery stores could likely not afford West Hollywood grocery stores may soon have to pay their employees related emergency ends or 120 the beginning of the pandemic. the hazard pay for all of their an additional $5 per hour in hazard pay. days, whichever is longer. Though those raises have lapsed, employees and instead suggested The council’s unanimous deci- nearby local governments are work- the city could work with businesses services they provide, raise prices, back more workers to take care of sion was made as part of the con- ing to put in place their own hazard to create a “fund for people who are all of these things impact us in the the duties and responsibilities that sent calendar, though Councilman pay rules, including $5 per hour in unemployed and have families to bottom line as the consumer and the exist,” Horvath said. “We’ve John D’Amico made clear his sup- Los Angeles, $4 per hour in Long feed,” as well as continue working livelihood of their workforce.” required in West Hollywood that port for the measure, which would Beach and $5 per hour in unincor- to help businesses reopen safely. Horvath said the grocery store grocery stores place an employee at apply to grocery store chains with porated Los Angeles County. “Just think about the math; $5 per industry has avoided much of the the entrance to ensure safety proc- more than 300 employees national- If the county’s ordinance is hour per worker is about $10,000 downturn that hit so many other tors are followed. I don’t think gro- ly and 10 employees per store, dur- adopted, West Hollywood will seek more per employee,” Morrill said. sectors of the economy, adding that cery stores are at risk of losing any ing the meeting. to be included, according to the city “What does that do to a business “we have not seen any evidence of their workers. We need to be sure “I support this item, I support staff report, and if that is not possi- that has a very slim profit margin, that suggests that grocery stores that we’re protecting our workers, what we’re trying to do … Grocery ble, the West Hollywood City which grocery stores do? They have will have to lay off workers.” as well as the people who are com- store employees, I believe, they are Attorney will return with a city-spe- to lay off their staff, pull back on the “In fact, they’ve had to bring ing to buy groceries.” some of the unsung heroes of this epidemic. They should be, they must be, compensated,” D’Amico said. In an interview, Mayor Lindsey Horvath added that some grocery stores have been sites of COVID-19 infections. “The frontline workers there are putting themselves in harm’s way to ensure that we’re able to access those essential goods and food that we need. I’m grateful for their work, and they deserve to be rewarded for the risk that they’re taking to keep us fed,” she said. Hollywood chamber hosts homelessness summit The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce is hosting a homeless- ness summit on the virtual plat- form Hopin. The summit is taking place today and tomorrow, Jan. 28 and 29, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and will feature three sessions each day touching on various aspects of the homelessness in Hollywood. Speakers include Miguel Santana, former city administrative officer for the city of Los Angeles; Christopher Leinberger, land use strategist, teacher and developer; Sarah Dusseault, commissioner of the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority; as well as mul- tiple nonprofit and community leaders who work to end the home- lessness crisis in Hollywood. The summit will culminate with a pledge to action, where businesses will discuss how, as a community, they can move forward with short- and long-term action items to help those experiencing homelessness. All proceeds from ticket sales will go toward Room for Success, a program designed to empower the lives of local college students experiencing homelessness by providing them with a safe place to live and connecting them with support services and resources. For information, contact Diana Yedoyan at (323)468-1380 ext. 140 or diana@hollywoodcham- ber.net, or visit hollywoodcham- ber.net. 4 January 28, 2021 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Woman allegedly involved in insurrection Second fire in two years sent to Washington, D.C., to face charges destroys vacant homes n Two other defendants uling by the courts in the nation’s dence, including videos of her capital, he said. The U.S. Attorney’s allegedly stating her name and per- from Beverly Hills also Office in Washington, D.C., which sonal information while at a Trump expected in court is overseeing the prosecution of rally prior to the rioting, and alleged participants in the insurrec- footage allegedly showing her with By edwin folven tion, did not return requests for a bullhorn inciting the crowd from a comment. ledge at the U.S. Capitol. A Beverly Hills aesthetician who Bisignano was among three Authorities said they identified her has been charged with multiple Beverly Hills residents arrested and at multiple locations during the riot- felony counts for allegedly partici- charged last week for allegedly ing by a designer sweater and sun- pating in the insurrection at the U.S. being involved. Frequently seen in glasses she allegedly wore. Capitol on Jan. 6 was remanded videos at pro-Trump rallies in Two other defendants, Simone into custody last week and sent to Beverly Hills, she was taken into Gold, 55, and John Strand, 37, are Washington, D.C., to answer custody on Jan. 19 and charged believed to have traveled together charges. with six counts including civil dis- to Washington, D.C. They were Gina Bisignano, 52, had initially order, destruction of government taken into custody in Beverly Hills been released on bond and placed property, aiding and abetting, on Jan. 18 and also face multiple on home detention after her first obstruction of an official proceed- charges separate from the case court appearance on Jan. 19, but ing, entering a restricted building or against Bisignano. Gold and Strand was taken into custody again on grounds, and violent entry and dis- were named in a singular criminal Jan. 20 after she was determined to orderly conduct. complaint and each charged with photo by Edwin Folven be at risk for not reappearing in FBI agents tied Bisignano to the entering a restricted building or A firefighter and civilian were injured on Jan. 22 during a blaze at court. The U.S. Marshals Service alleged crimes through tips and grounds, and violent entry and dis- two neighboring vacant homes on Bronson Avenue in Hollywood. was ordered to take Bisignano to videos posted on social media orderly conduct. Gold was released The Los Angeles Fire Department received a 911 call about the fire at Washington, D.C., said Thom allegedly showing her at the scene, on $15,000 bail last week and 1245 N. Bronson Ave. at 9:08 a.m. Firefighters arrived to find a one- Mrozek, spokesman for the U.S. authorities said. A statement of facts placed on home detention while story vacant house on the property fully engulfed in flames, with the Attorney’s Office in Los Angeles. filed with the federal criminal com- court hearings proceed. She is fire extending to a second vacant house to the north and a small guest Further hearings depend on sched- plaint outlined some of the evi- expected to appear in court today, house toward the rear of the property, LAFD spokesman Brian Jan. 28, via videoconference. Humphrey said. Strand was also released last week, Flames had also spread to a balcony at an adjacent apartment build- but there were no further details ing that was occupied. Firefighters located a male civilian in the apart- about further court hearings. ment building suffering from burns to his arm and hand, and para- Federal authorities in Washington, medics took him to a hospital in fair condition. The fire was extin- D.C., could not be reached. guished at 9:47 a.m. A firefighter also sustained a minor injury but was The FBI and U.S. Department of assessed at the scene and did not require hospitalization, Humphrey Justice are still seeking tips about said. the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol. LAFD spokesman Nicholas Prange said the LAFD Arson Unit is Anyone with tips can provide infor- investigating the cause and the case remains open. The buildings had mation by calling (800)CALLFBI, been vacant, boarded up and fenced for nearly two years after being or the Los Angeles FBI Field Office damaged by a previous fire on June 12, 2019. The cause of that fire is at (310)477-6565. also unknown.

photo courtesy of the FBI/U.S. Department of Justice This photograph allegedly showing defendant Gina Bisignano during rioting at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6 was included with others in a state- ment of facts filed by the FBI in the case. Former councilman Englander sentenced to 14 months Former Los Angeles City In the plea, Englander admitted Councilman Mitchell Englander he schemed to cover up cash pay- was sentenced on Jan. 25 to 14 ments, expensive meals, escort months in federal prison for services and other gifts offered to obstruction of a public corruption him from an individual identified investigation into his acceptance as Businessperson A, who sought of gifts – including $15,000 in to increase his business opportuni- cash – from a businessman during ties in the city. From August 2017 trips to Las Vegas and Palm until December 2018, Englander Springs in 2017. knowingly and willfully falsified Englander, 50, of Santa Monica, and concealed material facts per- was sentenced by United States taining to the federal public cor- District Judge John F. Walter, who ruption investigation. Specifically, noted that Englander’s “elaborate Englander covered up facts that he and clandestine scheme” to cover had accepted items of value during up his conduct has “undermined June 2017 trips to Las Vegas and the public trust.” Walter declined Palm Springs, and that he directed Englander’s request for probation a witness to lie to and mislead fed- and ordered him to pay a $15,000 eral investigators, according to the POSTPONED fine. U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Englander became the first per- Central District of California. son to be sentenced in relation to Nine individuals and two busi- Operation “Casino Loyale,” an nesses have been charged as a ongoing corruption investigation result of the FBI investigation into into Los Angeles City Hall that has corruption at L.A. City Hall, also led to criminal charges including Huizar, who is the lead against former City Councilman defendant in a sweeping racketeer- Jose Huizar and 10 other defen- ing indictment that alleges he dants. Englander, who represented agreed to accept at least $1.5 mil- the 12th District in the San lion in illicit financial benefits Fernando Valley before resigning while serving as the leader of a at the end of 2018, pleaded guilty criminal enterprise. A jury trial for last July to one count of scheming Huizar and the other defendants is to falsify material facts. scheduled to begin on June 22. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 5 January 28, 2021 West Hollywood moves to help citizens in poverty n City joins Mayors for WeHo council supports a Guaranteed Income Virginia’s ERA ratification BY CAMERON KISZLA The West Hollywood City and Illinois followed in 2018. In Council earlier this month unani- January 2020, Virginia’s General The West Hollywood City mously passed a resolution in Assembly passed a ratification Council approved plans to join support of the certification of the resolution for the ERA, making Mayors for a Guaranteed Income, a state of Virginia’s ratification of Virginia the 38th state to approve group of 35 city leaders founded by the Equal Rights Amendment. the Equal Rights Amendment. former Stockton Mayor Michael The resolution requests that Experts and advocates acknowl- Tubbs, who garnered national atten- President Joe Biden and Vice edge legal uncertainty about the tion for his efforts to bring guaran- President Kamala Harris direct consequences of the Virginia rati- teed income to his city. MGI also the national archivist to certify fication since a deadline of three- includes Los Angeles Mayor Eric the ratification. quarters, or 38, of the 50 states to Garcetti, Atlanta Mayor Keisha photo by Cameron Kiszla The ERA is a proposed amend- approve the ERA has expired. Lance Bottoms and New Orleans West Hollywood may start a guaranteed income pilot program to help ment to the United States “Virginia’s ratification of the Mayor LaToya Cantrell. some of its residents get out of poverty. Constitution designed to provide ERA has, thus far, served as a Sukhi Samra, director of MGI, for the legal equality of the sexes symbolic victory,” West said guaranteed income is similar to West Hollywood Mayor Lindsey typical thing that we see is about and prohibit discrimination on the Hollywood Mayor Lindsey the universal basic income idea Horvath said joining MGI is part of 100 to 150 residents receiving basis of sex. First proposed by the Horvath said. “Now, it’s time to espoused by presidential candidate the city’s “long history of serving about $500 a month for 18 to 24 National Woman’s Party in 1923 bring this over the finish line … Andrew Yang in 2019 and 2020, and supporting our most vulnerable months,” Samra said. “Of course, under the leadership of feminist It’s a new day. Generations of though instead of being universal, residents,” including prioritizing we have cities that are bigger, cities Alice Paul, it took more than four American women have been wait- guaranteed income uses “a recur- poverty reduction, an effort that that are smaller, but it’s largely a decades for the ERA to be intro- ing for this moment. The city of ring cash payment given to folks was led by former Councilman product of how much money cities duced to Congress under the lead- West Hollywood urges the Biden- directly, usually on a monthly John Heilman. are able to gather.” ership of U.S. Rep. Bella Abzug Harris Administration to direct the basis” in a more targeted way. “Mayors for a Guaranteed Horvath said in West Hollywood, (D-N.Y.) and feminists Betty National Archivist to certify the “It’s specifically a tool for equity, Income share the goal of making “we need to look at what will be the Friedan and Gloria Steinem. It Virginia ratification. I look for- often racial and gender equity,” sure those who are most vulnerable best fit for the city of West won the requisite two-thirds vote ward to the day we can say the Samra said. “We see a guaranteed are taken care of. It’s not a new Hollywood with the focus on from the U.S. House of ERA is now the 28th Amendment income as a response to the eco- idea, but it’s received renewed reducing poverty,” but city officials Representatives in October 1971 to the Constitution, guaranteeing nomic inequality that existed long focus in light of a lot of racial and will see what is possible given the and it was approved by the U.S. equal rights to women.” before COVID, but that was ampli- economic injustice that have municipal financial situation, as Senate in March 1972 and sent to “Now is the time, with our first fied by the pandemic.” become top of mind,” Horvath said. well as outside funding from pri- the states for ratification. female, African-American and Samra added that MGI is “excited “We think that this is a great way to vate groups, nonprofits and grant California was one of 35 states to South-Asian vice president, let’s to have West Hollywood on board.” help protect people and give them money. ratify, but the ERA did not meet continue to break the glass ceiling “Our hope is to show that this is the resources and support they need “We’re looking at all opportuni- the threshold by its deadline. and finally enshrine equality into an idea that can gain traction any- to keep them in place, especially ties, outside grants, but we’ll take a Ratification was needed in 38 the United States Constitution,” where, from California to the South during this tough economic time.” look at our budget,” Horvath said. states by 1979. The deadline was Councilman John Erickson said. to the East Coast and Midwest. Samra said if West Hollywood “We’ll look at city resources, but extended to 1982, but the effort For information, contact Andi We’re excited to have West moves forward with its pilot pro- we’ll also look for community part- remained short by three states. Lovano, West Hollywood com- Hollywood on board to show that gram, MGI will help with the ners who share our values and want In 2017, Nevada became the munity and legislative affairs this idea works across the political framework of the program. to work with us to make this a real- first state to ratify the ERA after supervisor, at (323)848-6333 or spectrum,” Samra said. “It varies, city by city, but the ity for our residents.” the expiration of both deadlines at [email protected]. 6 January 28, 2021 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

West Hollywood-owned sites bound for new life n City plans to develop pressing need for housing, to Santa Monica Blvd., a 40,000- address homelessness services and square-foot staging area at 8120 underutilized buildings, needs in our community. These Santa Monica Blvd., the Coast address vacant issues are contributing to inequity Playhouse at 8325 Santa Monica nuisance properties issues that are constantly part of our Blvd. and the 22,000-square-foot conversation now and the best way commercial site at 8301-8315 Santa BY LAURA COLEMAN that we can address them is to take Monica Blvd. which currently hous- action swiftly.” es Joey’s Café, Peter’s Magnolia The future of city-owned proper- Over the past 20 years the city has Cleaners and Crossroads Trading. ties was at the forefront of the most acquired five vacant and underuti- In addition to these properties, photo by Cameron Kiszla recent West Hollywood City lized properties with the goal that staff is evaluating the acquisition of In moving forward with a plan to redevelop city-owned properties, Council meeting on Jan. 19 at they be used for a public purpose or other properties which align with Councilman John D’Amico suggested relocating Joey’s Café on Santa which council members voiced sup- redeveloped through a ground lease the city’s goals and needs. Monica Boulevard across the street to the ground floor of City Hall. port for developing the city’s under- or other form of public-private part- Property Development Manager utilized properties. nership. Properties include the Brian League said that staff had “We have some very unique Sunset Spectacular and parking lot developed 13 key considerations for owned properties that we’re going with the city that runs through opportunities,” Mayor Lindsey at 8775 Sunset Blvd., a 10,000- how to potentially develop the to be developing” 2032. He said it was “problematic” Horvath said. “We have an urgent, square-foot parking lot at 7718 underutilized properties. Shyne underscored the commu- to immediately move forward with Possibilities include developing nity’s need for affordable housing that property’s redevelopment as it additional market rate, workforce and advocated ensuring that the city would require the city to renegoti- and affordable housing, creating pursues that avenue while realizing ate the lease terms. additional city or social services for a good rate of return. Councilman John D’Amico Notable quotes residents, bringing in retail develop- “I think the intent is there, but I voiced his opposition to the city “The Hill We Climb” ment or creating more open space. want to make sure it is there,” she allowing such a large property to “Essentially, it’s housing, more said. remain underutilized for the next When day comes we ask ourselves, housing, type of housing, any type Council members said it was crit- decade. He urged staff to explore where can we find light in this never-ending shade? of economic return to the city for ical that community engagement the possibility of leasing the ground The loss we carry, the parcels, and how better to pro- occur throughout the development floor of City Hall for other purposes a sea we must wade vide city services on some of those process in order to ensure that resi- in light of the fact that many people We’ve braved the belly of the beast parcels,” League said. dent voices are heard and become a have transitioned to working from We’ve learned that quiet isn’t always peace The council members under- part of the evaluation process. home as a result of the pandemic. And the norms and notions scored that the properties could be During public comment, Jonah He said if the suggestion was favor- of what just is developed to provide long-term rev- Breslau, a research analyst at the able, Joey’s Café could potentially Isn’t always just-ice enue streams for the city. Los Angeles Alliance for a New move to the ground floor of City And yet the dawn is ours In moving forward with the item, Economy, advocated that the city Hall. before we knew it the council directed staff to engage maintain ownership of the land in “I can’t think of another city … Somehow we do it the Urban Land Institute Los order to retain control over the site. that has a major piece of property Somehow we’ve weathered and witnessed Angeles for guidance, but advocat- League clarified that the city’s across from its City Hall,” he said. a nation that isn’t broken ed that city staff take the lead in ulti- “goal is to not sell any of the prop- “We have … these incredible but simply unfinished mately determining the best devel- erties.” Rather, he said the city opportunities … and we can rewrite We the successors of a country and a time opment strategies. planned to either lease the parcels the future history of our city by Where a skinny Black girl Mayor Pro Tempore Lauren or enter into public-private devel- doing something.” descended from slaves and raised by a single mother Meister clarified that while it was opment partnerships. City Manager Paul Arevalo can dream of becoming president “great” to look to the ULI for brain- Councilman John Erickson fur- assured the council that the current only to find herself reciting for one storming and inspiration, the insti- ther underscored that the city’s leases, albeit “complicated,” would tute’s suggestions would not be “the intent was not to “give away” any not be the driving factor on any of Amanda Gorman final word” as to what happens in public land. the projects. Youth Poet Laureate the city. She also asked that staff “I think it’s going to be very “What we’re going to design is Except of Inaugural Poem bring in an environmental consul- important that our community has a going to be something really special January 20, 2021 tant with a specialization in energy robust input for how we can look at and something that we’ll all be and climate to help create potential these parcels as we continue to push proud of for the city,” he said. solutions for the properties. them out,” he said. “Obviously Arevalo supported D’Amico’s Councilwoman Sepi Shyne fur- when we look at a number of them, suggestion to utilize portions of ther advocated that the city bring in we see the hopes for the future.” City Hall not purely for city opera- Beverly Hills Rotary joined an environmental expert. Erickson suggested that the city tions, calling it a “great” one. “We have nine years until all consider using the Coast Playhouse “The hybrid work environment is [new] commercial buildings [con- to help activate a live theater district here to stay,” he said. “I do think we by COVID specialist structed] have to be zero-net [ener- adjacent to City Hall. need to be creative and flexible.” gy] in California,” she said. “I League noted that the Santa With its unanimous vote, the would like us to get ahead of that Monica Boulevard property across council also authorized staff to pro- curve and be a pioneer leader in the the street from City Hall was chal- ceed with a feasibility analysis for a fight against climate change. I think lenged by the fact that its occupants housing and services center for peo- we have an opportunity to do that all held leases, including Joey’s with at least one or more of our city- Café, which currently has a lease Continues on next page

photo courtesy of the Rotary Club of Beverly Hills Physician and author Dr. David Agus joined the Rotary Club of Beverly Hills on Jan. 25 for a discussion about COVID-19, vaccines and where the pandemic is likely headed in 2021. “The pandemic is on the minds of everyone, and in his most bril- liant articulate manner, Dr. Agus helped us to understand the history of the onset, where we are today and what the future, as he knows it, has in store,” said Sharona R. Nazarian, president of the Rotary Club of Beverly Hills. “His graciousness with his time answering ques- tions from more than 110 Rotarians and guests helped them to under- stand the situation, the absolute necessity of vaccination and an insight into what a new normal world might be.” For information, visit bhrotary.org. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 7 January 28, 2021 ple experiencing homelessness. Force was created and now meets Commerce President and CEO Meister advocated that staff reach on a monthly basis. Genevieve Morrill spoke out against out to the county and Metro to see if The ordinance, which went into levying the fees at this time, noting it was possible to use portions of the effect in January 2020, codifies a that several owners had reached out Metro site on San Vicente process to deal with vacant proper- to her to share their concerns. Boulevard, namely its outdoor ties and levy fees upon their own- “It is a very different world today parking lot, to be developed to help ers. Annual fees range from $740 than when the ordinance went into with the city’s housing crisis. for maintained vacant properties to effect in 2020,” she said. “It just “We are currently … spending so $8,880 for unmaintained properties seems unreasonable at this time that much money on outreach, social that pose a threat to the broader we’re putting resources into getting services, rehab and trying to find community. Last year, city staff money from landlords who desper- housing .. and also helping people identified 14 properties that they ately want to rent.” who are at the brink of losing hous- deemed to be the highest priority – The implementation of the pro- ing, we are trying to help them stay out of 38 vacant properties identi- gram was delayed due to the coron- in their housing,” Meister said. fied throughout the community – avirus pandemic, which charged the photo by Cameron Kiszla Staff is expected to issue a based on calls for service to code city’s code enforcement officers Some vcant buildings in West Hollywood have created issues for the city, request for proposals within the compliance and the sheriff’s station. with enforcing the county’s public officials said. next 90 days. The RFP will center Since that time, three of the high- health orders. However, the council around the feasibility of locating a priority properties have been made clear that they were support- Initial inspections are anticipated to have to do to get these landlords to combined housing and services demolished. ive in moving forward to deal with begin in February. take care of these properties,” facility in West Hollywood to serve West Hollywood Chamber of the most problematic properties. “We need to do whatever we Meister said. people experiencing homelessness with $300,000 in Measure H funds. Following discussion on how the city might best utilize the properties that it owns, the council turned its attention to privately held vacant properties. D’Amico advocated that the city expeditiously move ahead with dealing with the “worst” properties, particularly those that have home- less people living in them with no running water and no electricity. He characterized such conditions as “unreasonable and unsafe.” “Boarded-up buildings in our neighborhoods that have people liv- ing in them, that’s just not safe,” he said. “And the property owners, I think, have to come up with better responses than having the city take care of it.” “I and the residents of our city are bearing the burden of a person who doesn’t live here, bought the proper- ty ages ago [and] refuses to keep it up, when we could be doing things that this city actually needs, devel- oping the property to meet the needs of our city, developing it for housing,” Erickson added. In December 2019, the council established new public nuisance standards that address property maintenance and vacant property issues. A Vacant Property Task Tennis anyone? BH updates rules With California Gov. Gavin Newsom announcing the lift of the state’s regional stay-at-home order across all counties on Jan. 25, ten- nis play in Beverly Hills is now open to pairings beyond individu- als living in the same household. This recent update comes as a result of a four-week projection by the California Department of Public Health that indicates inten- sive care unit capacity will be above the minimum threshold of 15% required for counties to exit the order. La Cienega Tennis Center and Roxbury Tennis Courts will return to regular tennis play and operat- ing hours, while continuing to fol- low safety protocols. Face coverings must be worn upon check-in and while walking through the facility to designated court. While face coverings are not required during play, a face cover- ing must be worn at all other times. Tennis players must also prac- tice social distancing, stay home if they are not feeling well – even the least bit – and wash their hands frequently. For information, visit beverly- hills.org/tennis. To make reserva- tions, visit beverlyhills.org/bhrec, or call La Cienega Tennis at (310)285-6825 and Roxbury Tennis Courts at (310)285-6829. 8 January 28, 2021 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

still want to participate, or a mom with a child with special needs, or CicLAvia, AARP tout partnership someone who gets a flat tire and With the ongoing pandemic pre- the chance to connect with family, hails a ride to the next hub to get it venting CicLAvia events, CicLAvia friends and their community in a repaired – no one is excluded. and AARP – the nation’s largest non- completely different way than our “This partnership has been amaz- profit, nonpartisan organization ded- car-centric culture allows.” ing for both of us, as we work to icated to empowering Americans 50 “Ciclavia has always been con- make more livable cities for people and older to choose how they live as cerned about ensuring it was acces- of all ages,” Ramirez said. “We they age – are emphasizing their sible to everyone, regardless of age, want CicLAvia to continue as much partnership. Leaders from the two physical abilities or location,” said as the rest of Los Angeles does. The groups said they are eagerly awaiting Tafarai Bayne, CicLAvia’s chief institution that CicLAvia represents the return of CicLAvia, which closes strategist. “When CicLAvia was – the opportunity for Angelenos to streets to car traffic and opens them conducting its community outreach come together – it’s unparalleled for people to walk, skate, bike, play for a new Southeast L.A. route in and will endure through this crisis. and explore parts of Los Angeles 2016, the outreach team noticed a We will be right there with them County. higher-than-average number of when CicLAvia can resume bring- “As an organization that repre- senior citizens walking around the ing our communities together in sents people aged 50-plus and their community and at the many church- person.” families, AARP’s goals are to dis- es along the route. We realized that For information, visit photo courtesy of AARP rupt the notion of aging, create some of these residents would have ciclavia.org. AARP provides pedicabs for use during CicLAvia events. awareness and advocate for differ- trouble accessing the event, particu- ent ways that people can safely trav- larly those with mobility chal- el, and strive to build age-friendly lenges.” communities across the region,” After some initial brainstorming, said Stephanie Ramirez, AARP Los the two nonprofits formed a part- Angeles’ associate state director of nership. AARP sponsored a handful advocacy. “It makes perfect sense of pedicabs offering free rides so for AARP to partner with CicLAvia, seniors and anyone with mobility an organization that sheds light on challenges could access the different people-powered trans- Southeast L.A. event. Anyone who portation options for Angelenos wants or needs one can take a pedi- whether it’s walking, biking or cab – people who have injuries that rolling. CicLAvia also offers people prevent them from riding but who

photo courtesy of Exer Exer Urgent Care patients can wait in a virtual line and be notified when it’s time to arrive for their appointment by text message.

Exer Urgent Care unveils virtual line feature Exer Urgent Care, an emer- more convenient experience by gency room alternative staffed by eliminating the need to wait in a ER doctors, announced on Jan. physical line outside of our Exer 25 that it will offer patients a vir- Urgent Care locations,” said tual line feature for in-person Rob Mahan, CEO of Exer care at all of their 19 Southern Urgent Care. “We remain com- California locations, including mitted to innovating and West Hollywood. improving the patient experi- The virtual line provides ence, and will continue to patients the convenience of queu- expand our services to meet the ing up from anywhere and is needs of the community, while designed to help alleviate long also working to prevent further lines at the clinics, while also overburdening of hospitals amid helping patients maintain social the COVID-19 surge.” distancing and provide a safer Exer locations are open seven environment. days a week from 9 a.m. to 9 With the new virtual line, p.m., with the last patient regis- patients can get in line to be seen tered at 8:30 p.m. Exer accepts at an Exer clinic from the com- most Medicare, PPO and HMO fort of their home, office or any- insurance, and offers affordable where they are comfortable. Text payment options for those with messages will alert patients of minimal or no health insurance. their place in line and when it’s Exer Urgent Care West time to arrive at the clinic. Hollywood is located at 8000 “Offering a virtual line option Sunset Blvd., Suite C110. For for in-person care allows us to information, visit exerurgent- provide our patients with a safer, care.com. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 9 January 28, 2021 Decision on transgender military service applauded In response to President Joe vital work to be done to protect the ed service of our nation’s transgen- Biden’s executive order on Jan. 25 dignity and lives of LGBTQ peo- der service members and veterans. reversing a ban on transgender peo- ple,” Russell-Slavin said. “We call Anyone who is willing to put their ple serving openly in the U.S. mili- on elected officials at all levels of life on the line for fellow tary, the Los Angeles LGBT Center government and all people of con- Americans should be revered, not applauded the news. science to join the fight for equality ostracized. President Biden has “In July 2017, this ban signaled and justice for all.” demonstrated that the previous ban the start of the Trump administra- The city of West Hollywood also was contrary to American values tion’s years-long efforts to legislate applauded Biden’s decision. and I’m overjoyed to see this transgender Americans out of exis- “Transgender service members administration get to work in com- tence. President Biden’s action was deserve our respect and gratitude,” passionately recognizing the contri- a clear message from the comman- West Hollywood Mayor Lindsey butions of transgender people and der in chief that bigotry and dis- Horvath said. “Instead, the Trump in ensuring that the rights of crimination have no place in the administration’s ban on military LGBTQ people are deeply U.S. military. Thanks to this deci- service for transgender people embraced and quickly prioritized.” photo by Edwin Folven sion, thousands of dedicated trans- sowed division, hatred and intoler- For information, visit weho.org The Biden administration’s reversal of a ban on transgender people serv- gender service members are once ance. It was an insult to the dedicat- and lalgbtcenter.org. ing in the military was welcomed by the local LGBTQ community. again rightfully recognized for their service and sacrifice in defense of our freedom,” Los Angeles LGBT Center Director of Policy and Community Building Terra Russell-Slavin said in a statement. “The ban underscored the fact that, without sweeping federal pro- tections, discrimination against LGBTQ people remains unchecked in most states in our nation. Congress must act now to pass the Equality Act to enshrine equal pro- tection as law under the Civil Rights Act. Russell-Slavin added that more needs to be done for the LGBTQ community. “While we celebrate, there is still

Raman, Bonin call for boost to Project Roomkey program Los Angeles City Councilmembers Nithya Raman, 4th District, and Mike Bonin, 11th District, co-introduced a motion on Jan. 26 calling for the city to expand the Project Roomkey program, which shelters unhoused residents in hotel and motel rooms. The Biden administration announced last week that 100% of city expenses for such programs would be reimbursed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. “During the pandemic, our city’s unhoused population has been uniquely vulnerable, forced to choose between exposure to a dan- gerously cold and wet winter and the elevated risk of outbreaks in congregate shelters,” Raman said. “L.A. must seize this lifeline from the federal government and make every effort to offer rooms to as many of our unhoused residents as possible.” Project Roomkey was launched in March 2020 to secure vacant hotel and motel rooms for unhoused people who could not shelter in place during the pandemic. The program, which housed 6,150 peo- ple in Los Angeles County, was 75% reimbursed by FEMA, leaving significant costs to cities. The Biden administration announced last week that the federal government will reimburse 100% of the funding. The motion asked city officials to quickly determine how to expand and improve Project Roomkey. It also urges the use of hotels and motels with fewer than 100 rooms and asks the Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority to consult with unhoused individuals on ways to improve the program. For information, visit nithyaforthecity.com. 10 January 28, 2021 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Subway work continues with expanded hours Work hours are increasing in the staging yards. Ongoing concrete Landmark Center will be closed some areas along the Purple Line and material deliveries to the during the closure. Extension subway route as crews Wilshire/La Cienega station box are Near Wilshire/Fairfax, station are working toward completion of anticipated to continue this week. construction, hauling and concrete the first sections of the new line. Work will be conducted from pouring continue. Work hours in the Section one between Wilshire Boulevard and within the Ogden staging yard have increased Wilshire/Western and Wilshire/La Gale staging yard from 3 a.m. to 6 to 24 hours, six to seven days a Cienega is scheduled to open in p.m. week for the next two months. To 2023, and section two through Eastbound Wilshire Boulevard protect workers in the tunnels, the Beverly Hills to Century City will may be intermittently reduced to temporary ventilation system will open in 2025. one lane from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., and run full speed 24 hours. The period In Beverly Hills, excavation of 8 p.m. to 7 a.m., as needed. The clo- of increased work supports tunnel- the Wilshire/Rodeo station box con- sure may also be implemented on ing under the Wilshire/San Vicente tinues, with an anticipated comple- Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. intersection. tion by the end of March. Work in Additional intermittent lane reduc- Wilshire Boulevard will also be the area requires intermittent side- tions, turn restrictions and sidewalk reduced to two lanes in each direc- photo by Edwin Folven walk and lane closures on Wilshire closures may be in place. Gale tion between San Diego Way and Construction continues in a staging yard near Wilshire/Western, where Boulevard. Geotechnical instru- Drive will be intermittently closed Spaulding Avenue through next cross passage excavation and tunneling support is ongoing. mentation is also occurring along at Wilshire Boulevard to support August. Intermittent lane closures the subway tunnel and in surround- construction in the Gale staging may be in place to support deck ing neighborhoods. yard. Work hours are 4 a.m. to 6 panel maintenance and investiga- place to support construction from 6 boulevards. Concrete and material New hauling hours for removing p.m., Monday through Saturday. tion. Anticipated work hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through deliveries are anticipated to contin- soil from the tunnels and station Access to Gale Drive will be main- a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and 7 p.m. to 6 Friday. ue through at least the end of sites have also been implemented. tained from San Vicente Boulevard. a.m., Monday through Friday. A work zone on the west side of January. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., two lanes The K-rail work zone in the inter- Orange Grove Avenue remains the intersection of Wilshire and Near Wilshire/Western, tunneling will be open in each direction on section of Wilshire and San Vicente closed south of Wilshire Boulevard Rimpau boulevards is anticipated to support continues in a staging yard Wilshire Boulevard between El boulevards is anticipated to be in until January 2022 and Ogden Drive be in place through March 2022. at Wilshire Boulevard and Camino and Crescent drives to place through March. Eastbound will be closed intermittently at Wilshire Boulevard has been Manhattan Place. Support for cross accommodate soil removal from the Wilshire Boulevard will be reduced Wilshire Boulevard. reduced to two lanes in each direc- passage excavation will continue 24 Reeves staging yard. From 10 p.m. to a single lane between Tower Near Wilshire/La Brea, hauling, tion between June Street and hours. Northbound Manhattan to 10 a.m., Wilshire Boulevard will Drive and San Vicente Boulevard, deliveries and tunneling support are Muirfield Road. Concrete and mate- Place will be intermittently closed be reduced to one lane in each direc- and westbound Wilshire Boulevard ongoing in construction staging rial deliveries are anticipated to con- just north of Wilshire Boulevard tion between El Camino and will be reduced to a single lane yards and from a K-rail enclosure at tinue at the site. Wilshire Boulevard from 4 a.m. to midnight, Monday Crescent drives, when excavation between La Jolla Avenue and San Wilshire Boulevard and Orange may be intermittently reduced to a through Friday, and 8 a.m. to 11 will occur through deck openings Vicente Boulevard. The enclosure Drive. Wilshire Boulevard will be single lane in each direction to sup- p.m., Saturday. Intermittent single along Wilshire Boulevard at Canon will support ongoing tunnel and reduced to two lanes in each direc- port ongoing concrete pours in the lane closures on Wilshire Boulevard Dive, and just west of Beverly mitigation work underneath tion between Detroit and June enclosure. may be necessary between Western Drive. Wilshire Boulevard. All left turns in streets, and Orange Drive will A K-rail enclosure at Wilshire Avenue and Manhattan Place. Station construction, material the intersection will be restricted remain closed north of Wilshire and Plymouth boulevards will be in For questions and concerns, call deliveries, instrumentation and con- while the work zone is in place. Boulevard. Intermittent lane clo- place for approximately one year. the 24-hour project hotline at crete pouring continue at the Directional closures will be imple- sures on Wilshire Boulevard and Wilshire Boulevard will be reduced (213)922-6934, email the project Wilshire/La Cienega station, where mented on weekends. The bus stop side streets between Highland to two lanes in each direction team at [email protected], or work is occurring 24 hours within for the eastbound 20 Line at the Avenue and Detroit Street may be in between Windsor and Plymouth visit metro.net. A Romantic Valentine’s Affair! Served All Day Thurday, Feb. 11 through Sunday, Feb. 14 Choice of: Wild “Love” Salad of mixed greens, cranberries, sugared walnuts drizzled with Pomegranate Vinaigrette OR Soup du Jour ™™™™™ A Duo of Petit Steak & Orange Glazed Salmon served with Baked Potato & Vegetables ™™™™™ Slice of Du-par’s Love Pie ™ Valentine’s Dinner $29.95 ™™™™™ Dinner for 2 $49.95 ™ Pre-Order Your includes surprise Rose! 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Order Direct or from Chow Now • Postmates In the Original Farmers Market • 3rd & Fairfax Follow Us! DoorDash • Uber Eats (323) 933-8446 • (323) 933-8447 [email protected] @duparsfm Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 11 January 28, 2021 Surge in homicides prompts urgent action By edwin folven We’re part of a clear national trend. the families and reaffirmed the We can’t take steps back. We have city’s responsibility to protect citi- The Los Angeles Police to make sure that [last] year was an zens and maintain public safety. He Department investigated 350 anomaly and not a trend.” said there are many efforts under- homicides in 2020, the highest Moore said the LAPD will con- way such as community partner- number in 12 years, and also saw tinue to operate with a focus on ships, youth development initia- an increase in the number of vic- community service and crime tives and gang reduction programs tims shot, marking the highest reduction, as well as transparency that show promise in reducing the number since 2010. and equity. The pandemic has rising numbers. He also stressed The numbers painted a sobering impacted policing in many ways, equity and fair treatment of all peo- picture as Los Angeles Mayor Eric but the department remains com- ple as an important component of Garcetti and Los Angeles Police mitted to the job of maintaining policing moving forward. Department Chief Michel Moore public safety and reducing crime, “It’s been a year that’s been filled outlined 2020 crime statistics on he said. with courage, generosity, when the photo courtesy of the LAPD Jan. 25 and discussed plans for “Our city, like others across the spirit of this city shone bright, but LAPD Chief Michel Moore outlined steps the department is taking to addressing the increases in the nation, experienced a troubling it’s also been a year in which reduce crime during a virtual press conference on Jan. 25. He was joined coming year. Aggravated assaults surge in homicides and shooting Angelenos challenged us, chal- by Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti. and auto thefts were also up; how- violence, with the highest concen- lenged us to look at public safety ever, every other category was tration of that violence occurring in and to build on the leadership that down, which was reason for some vulnerable communities. We saw we’ve had, [and] to demand more Valley impacted by gang-related continue staffing in our [most optimism, city officials said. But increased street gang violence, with to make sure that we are truly pro- crime, the city has implemented affected] geographic areas as well the increase in homicides and 55% of our homicides being gang- tecting and serving,” Garcetti community partnerships in which as investigative units focused on shootings is troubling and will be a related and a year-over-year added. officers and other public safety gun violence. We are working with focus for the department, they said. increase of 42% in gang homicides, Citywide, overall violent crime officials are ingrained in communi- the U.S. attorney and district attor- “This has been a year unlike any and increased violence within our decreased by 4.7%, robberies were ties and spend time getting to know ney and federal law enforcement other, and we know that this year, homeless community, with a year- down 17% and property crimes young people. Other efforts include partners to expand our resources in so many ways, has been an over-year increase of 11% in vio- decreased by 11.7%. creating more opportunities for and commitment to hold those anomaly, and so there’s a big star lent crime and 65 victims who were Garcetti cited programs aimed at community activity. The pandemic accountable who commit violence, on everything that we talk about experiencing homelessness lost to helping reduce crime while provid- and stay-at-home orders have been and also those responsible for here in that we don’t know if this homicide, compared to 41 the year ing a more equitable approach to particularly difficult for youth putting the guns in people’s year will just be a single year and before,” Moore said. “Impacting the way people are treated. He said seeking an outlet for pent-up ener- hands.” it’s good news and bad news that’s these increases has been made a new project that will dispatch gy, authorities said. an outlier because of the extraordi- harder by the pandemic and its mental health case workers to some Moore added the department nary circumstances we are all liv- impact on every social institution. 911 calls in which a police will continue to reimagine policing ing through,” Garcetti said. “But The isolation, sense of hopelessness response may not be the best efforts and community service in there’s another part of the story, the and inability to quell disputes and approach will be ready for imple- an effort to build public trust. numbers that are trending in the ready access to firearms, along with mentation in the coming weeks. “As we move into 2021, we are wrong direction. We saw an a justice system that has been The mayor also stressed partner- committed to focusing our increase last year in two critical severely impacted, has removed ships with the Los Angeles City resources on reducing gun violence categories, with homicides up by many levers that over the last Council and more community part- and continued community engage- 36.2% and victims shot by 41.4%, decade have been effective in the nerships as being crucial to reduc- ment in those neighborhoods most and while it doesn’t change how reduction of homicides and shoot- ing crime. impacted by this senseless violence serious and sobering these numbers ing violence.” In some locations in South Los and loss of life,” Moore said. “We are, L.A. isn’t some sort of outlier. Garcetti expressed sympathy for Angeles and the San Fernando have realigned this organization to

Letters to the Editor More funds should go by researchers like Professor Dr. To best explain, let’s draw an booth came from the Hollywood Wenjuan Zhang, at Cedars-Sinai analogy. Throughout the country, Foreign Press Association to COVID-19 study Medical Center, Dr. Leonid we have well-trained fire and police Charitable Trust. Kruglyak, the Diller-von departments included among the The West Hollywood-based Re “Study links new COVID-19 Furstenberg Family Endowed Chair services provided by our govern- HFPA has been championing film strain to surge in cases,” Jan. 21 issue in Human Genetics at UCLA, and ment to protect our people. They preservation, restoration and exhibi- the similar experts at USC and City often save lives. The very same tion and supporting it with a wide

of Hope so that we have a better could well apply to our medical array of grants, including more than More infectious strains of all understanding of the genetics of this needs and services. Replace pri- the $1 million it gave to the viruses, and currently in L.A. disease. They should also fund epi- vately owned medical establish- American Cinematheque for its County’s case the CAL.20C, demiologic research from experts ments with public, nonprofit orga- Egyptian Theater repairs and become the more dominant strain as like UCLA Drs. Anne Rimoin and nizations. So long as the medical upgrades over the years. Please give they spread through communities. Alice Kuo, Neeraj Sood [and] Jason facility belongs to a private institu- credit where credit is due. To a medical probability, Doctor at USC Price, and Michael tion, it is like any other profit-mak- CAL.20C is significantly more Hochman of the Keck School of ing business. May I ask, how do Yoram Kahana infectious than the other strains that Medicine. Despite the leading other countries do it so well, better Hollywood were prevalent through the spring experts that Los Angeles has that do than we? Member of and into the summer. This is proba- research in our backyard, our gov- And while we are at it, we can HFPA Board of Directors bly the primary reason we had such a ernments – federal, state and county eliminate the high-priced medical disproportionate increase in numbers – have failed to address this pandem- insurance policies we are forced to relative to other cities this winter. ic in a manner most likely to mini- purchase. It has been estimated that Editor’s Note: With a pre-pandemic annual bud- mize morbidity, mortality and eco- would save about 30% of our med- get of $980 million and with signifi- This past week, the Park Labrea nomic hardship. ical costs. Use those added savings cant supplemental funding through News and Beverly Press received to administer and operate the public the CARES Act, one should ask why criticism on social media about our Dr. Howard C. Mandel medical facilities. L.A. County Department of Public coverage of the inauguration, specif- President Health wasn’t doing more viral ically questioning why it was not on L.A. City Health Commission George Epstein genotyping weekly, and especially the front page of the Jan. 21, 2021, Detroit Street when the uptick in cases started to issue. We respectfully disagree with develop. We probably should have Medical center’s their assessment, as we published known this sooner and warned peo- HFPA deserves credit inauguration coverage including an ple who were at high risk [of hospi- closure is interview with U.S. Rep. Adam talization or mortality] to be extra for role in theater Schiff and an excerpt from President vigilant in their lifestyles to protect ill-conceived Joseph R. Biden’s inaugural speech. themselves. renovation The primary focus of the Park As outdoor dining had not been Re “Nurses denounce plans to Labrea News and Beverly Press is proven to be a cause of significant close Olympia hospital,” Jan. 21 Re “Historic Hollywood theater on local news, including coverage of transmission and now retrospective- issue to undergo renovations,” Jan. 14 Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, ly, [with] Pasadena’s restaurants not issue Hollywood, the Miracle Mile and associated with any uptick in disease, Even if we were not in the midst Hancock Park. We rely on our media L.A. County should have allowed of the COVID-19 pandemic, it Thank you for the story about the partners, the Los Angeles Times, to outdoor restaurants and personal ser- would be a serious mistake to close Egyptian Theater. Councilman cover national and international vices to stay open for low-risk peo- medical facilities that treat and cure Mitch O'Farrell singled out the news, and the inauguration was ple who do not live with seniors, patients. I’m sure everyone will nitrate film projection booth and prominently featured on their front people with diabetes and others most agree that hospitals are vital to peo- explained at length how unique and page. Our aim is to complement the susceptible to severe disease. ple’s lives, and the Olympia important it is. Los Angeles Times’ reporting with Our government leaders at both Medical Center is no exception. But But, nowhere in your story was news and information that is accu- rate, timely and pertinent to our loyal the county and city level should eco- my concern goes well beyond there a mention that the $350,000 nomically support scientific studies Olympia Medical Center. funding for building the nitrate readers. 12 January 28, 2021 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

information. 1920 Santa Monica RESTAURANT NEWS Blvd., (310)451-1655. Lucques Catering cassoulet night

by Jill Weinlein riday, Jan. 29, and Saturday, Madre’s Dia de la Jan. 30, chef Suzanne Goin is Foffering a three-course dinner con- Candelaria box sisting of roasted beets, Saint Agur Loqui family Socalo and Women cheese, walnuts and wildflower meal pack Winemakers Baja n Feb. 2, diners can celebrate honey salad, and a duck confit and Othe Our Lady of Candelaria pork confit cassoulet with garlic Virtual Dinner holiday at home with a special Dia sausage and white beans. Dessert oqui’s two locations now offer de la Candelaria box. Diners can is a poached pear with dried cher- a fun new meal kit with n Jan. 30, enjoy a four-course mix and match four tamales for ries and candied zest. This dinner Ldetailed assembly instructions and takeout menu created by $20. Options include mole negro for two people is $65, or $125 for all the ingredients needed to quick- OSocalo chefs Mary Sue Milliken with chicken, rajas with cheese, four. Caroline Styne offers curated ly make a complete lunch or dinner. and Susan Feniger and wines from rajas with chicken, salsa roja with wines to pair with Lucques’ cas- Start by selecting two proteins from Baja, Mexico’s most exciting wine pork and with chicken. For an extra soulet meal. Go to Tock to order chicken, mushroom, pork or beef. region. The wine dinner is part of $10, diners can add four cham- and pick up or have it delivered. You will receive rice, beans, gua- the RE: Her for Food, celebrating purrados – a warm and thick choco- exploretock.com/lucquescatering. camole, 12 of Loqui’s signature 10 days of women-owned restau- late Mexican beverage or four cafes 345 N. Maple Drive, Beverly photo courtesy of Lucques Catering flour tortillas, pickled purple onion, rants. Tune into a Zoom virtual con- de olla – a Mexican coffee. Orders Hills. Suzanne Goin cilantro, cotija cheese, chip salsa, versation with the chefs and expert must be placed on Madre’s website salsa roja and a bag of chips. Each winemakers Lulu Martinez Ojeda via ChowNow and by phone by ba noodles. The slow-cooked $90 meal kit serves from four to six of Bruma and Monica Magoni of Feb. 1. Orders can be picked up on Bushi by Jinya broths simmer in-house for 10 people and is available for pickup Bodegas Magoni. Vegan and vege- Feb. 2 between noon to 9 p.m. at all hours. Besides ramen, Bushi by or delivery. Go to eatloqui.com to tarian options are also available. three locations. Their regular menu ramen special Jinya specializes in hand rolls and order. Loqui Culver City Platform Select pickup time between 1 to 5 is available too. Visit madrerestau- n Thursday, Feb. 4, Bushi by karaage (Japanese fried chicken). at 8830 Washington Blvd., Suite p.m. Some reheating at home is rants.com. 801 N. Fairfax Ave., OJinya is offering 50% off all Bushi by Jinya also offers hand 104, Culver City, (949)393-8265; required. Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m. #101, (323)850-8518; 10426 online takeout orders of ramen rolls with nori that is sourced and Loqui DTLA Arts District at The cost is $160 for this unique din- National Blvd., (310)559-4732; and from opening to closing. Enjoy straight from the Ariake Sea in 803 Traction Ave., Suite 150, ing experience. Visit socalo.com or 1261 Cabrillo Ave., #100, tonkotsu or vegan broth accompa- Japan. Visit bushibyjinya.myncrsil- (213)265-7558. regardingherfood.com for more (310)974-8005. nied by three-day dry-aged mazeso- ver.com and the discount will be

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In the Original Farmers Market 3rd & Fairfax 6333 W. Third St. • 323.938.5131 (323) 933-8446 www.marcondas.com (323) 933-8447 Family Owned at the Farmers Market for 80 Years [email protected] Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 13 January 28, 2021 applied during checkout. This offer ery throughout Los Angeles. Urban is not valid through third-party Plates’ West L.A. digital kitchen delivery sites. 5168 Wilshire Blvd., offers delivery and pickup and Musso and Frank Grill relief fund raises $100,000 (323)954-6477. serves Westwood, Brentwood, Inspired by the altruistic gestures Century City, Holmby Hills, Santa of dozens of longtime patrons, the Monica, Mar Vista, Cheviot Hills owners of the Musso and Frank Ciao Verde Italia and Beverlywood. The North L.A. Grill have announced that the goal digital kitchen offers delivery only of $100,000 has been reached for opens and serves Glendale, Eagle Rock, the Musso and Frank Employee

Silver Lake, Atwater Village, Relief Fund. new vegan concept cloud Glassell Park, Highland Park, The fund was established in kitchen opened from the team Montecito Heights, downtown Los December to reimburse the leg- Abehind Holy Cow BBQ and Angeles, Cypress Park and South endary Hollywood restaurant’s 84 Rooster’s Chicken House. All Pasadena. Delivery orders can be employees for cost of living menu items are vegan/plant-based placed via Postmates, DoorDash expenses incurred since the begin- and made with local and organic and Uber Eats, and for pickup at the ning of the COVID-19 pandemic. products. Cheeses are either made West Los Angeles location and all All of the money raised through in-house or sourced locally and are restaurant locations. To order, go to the fund goes directly to the 100% dairy free. The sauces, dress- urbanplates.com/ordering. employees. The owners of Musso ings and marinades are all created and Frank Grill have paid for the in-house daily by their team of employees’ health insurance dur- chefs. One of their specialties is ing the pandemic, said Mark photo courtesy of the Musso and Frank Grill their authentic cloud-like Roman Bahn Chung Echeverria, CFO/COO and a style pinsa. It’s a three-day process Collective virtual fourth-generation member of the patrons, and members of our longtime and new patrons were to prepare the dough for the ovens family that owns the restaurant. extended Musso ‘family’ reached willing to demonstrate their sup- to create a crispy crust on the out- Lunar New Year The fund will remain open for out to us without prompting, port for our employees warmed our side that is light and airy on the donations. To view a special “Thank inquiring as to how they might go hearts. Everyone really came inside. Pastas and raviolis are all ed Boat’s research and devel- You to Our Community” video from about making a charitable contri- through for the Musso team and made fresh; however, the spaghetti opment chef Diep Tran is host- the staff and owners, visit face- bution to the welfare of our helped us achieve our $100,000 is imported directly from Italy. Go R ing her ninth annual Banh Chung book.com/mussoandfrankgrill/vide employees,” Echeverria said. “We goal.” to the website to have Ciao Verde ế Collective celebrating T t – os/416865076183857. were touched by these acts of gen- For information, visit mussoand- delivered to your front door. Vietnamese New Year. Since this “So many friends, longtime erosity. Knowing that dozens of frank.com. ciaoverdeitalia.com. year’s Lunar New Year festivities

will look a bit different than before, and a bottle of Red Boat fish sauce. Tran brings a safe and festive inter- Banh chung supplies include paper Make a lifesaving donation at Farmers Urban Plates opens active online experience on molds, twine and instructions for two digital kitchens Saturday, Feb. 6, from 1 to 3 p.m., how to make Banh Chung at home. Market blood drive from Alma Backyard Farms. This Each participating restaurant will The Original Farmers Market is Cedars-Sinai will provide free he chef-driven restaurant brand year’s event will be powered by personalize their kit with specially partnering with Cedars-Sinai COVID-19 antibody tests for all Toffering made-from-scratch Red Boat Fish Sauce. Purchase prepared dishes to enjoy along with Medical Center for a blood drive donors. Anaheim House of Jerky at meals using ethically sourced take-home Banh Chung kits from all the items needed to enjoy Lunar today, Jan. 28, and Friday, Jan. 29, the Original Farmers Market will ingredients just opened two digital Proof Bakery and Yang’s Kitchen. New Year. The event and Banh from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. also offer free 2-ounce packages of kitchens. Now their grass-fed beef, Each includes a ticket to the online Chung kit is $46. Go to good- The staff at Cedars-Sinai their artisan jerky. sustainably sourced seafood, cage- class that fans can livestream in girldinette.com. Proof Bakery, Medical Center has implemented The Original Farmers Market is free chicken, fresh produce sides their home, plus ingredients to 3156 Glendale Blvd., (323)664- new protocol to ensure safety for located at 6333 W. Third St. Space and salads, sandwiches, desserts, make rich, sticky rice dumpling 8633; and Yang’s Kitchen, 112 W. all donors, including an outdoor is limited, and donors must sign up craft beers and curated California filled with pork, shallots and mung Main St., Alhambra, (626)281- health screening and regular clean- in advance by visiting donate- wines are more accessible for deliv- beans wrapped in banana leaves, 1035. ing and disinfecting of equipment. bloodcedars.org. Bakery Box of L™ve!

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An unknown suspect burglarized a petty theft in the 7000 block of At 1 p.m., an unknown suspect vehicle parked near the corner of Lanewood at 1:40 p.m. burglarized a vehicle parked in the Melrose and Stanley at 11:40 a.m. 8700 block of Beverly. P OLICE BLOTTER At 5 p.m., an unknown suspect At noon, an unknown suspect committed a petty theft in the 300 An unknown suspect robbed a vic- stole a vehicle parked near the block of Hauser. tim in the 300 block of N. La corner of Fairfax and Oakwood. Cienega at 1:30 p.m. The following crimes occurred in West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the An unknown suspect robbed a vic- areas patrolled by the LAPD’s Wilshire and Hollywood divisions between An unknown suspect robbed a vic- tim in the 7600 block of Beverly at At 4:30 p.m., and unknown sus- Jan. 16 and Jan. 23. The information was compiled from tim in the 1700 block of N. Las 6:40 p.m. pect robbed a victim near the cor- crimemapping.com. To report a crime, call local law enforcement agencies: Palmas at 1:40 p.m. ner of Third and La Brea. Los Angeles Police Department, Wilshire Division (213)473-0476, Los At 7:30 p.m., an unknown suspect Angeles County Sheriff’s Department West Hollywood Station (310)855- At 2:30 p.m., an unknown suspect committed a burglary in the 1400 An unknown suspect committed a 8850, and the Beverly Hills Police Department, (310)550-4951. robbed a victim near the corner of block of N. Formosa. petty theft in the 6100 block of Sierra Bonita and Melrose. Hollywood at 5 p.m. An unknown suspect robbed a vic- Beverly Hills Police West Hollywood An unknown suspect committed a tim in the 1700 block of N. At 5:15 p.m., an unknown suspect burglary in the 1300 block of Viner Highland at 7:50 p.m. committed a petty theft in the 7200 Department Sheriff’s Station at 3:30 p.m. block of Sunset. At 8 p.m., an unknown suspect Jan. 17 Jan. 18 At 4 p.m., an unknown suspect stole a vehicle parked in the 2000 An unknown suspect committed a stole a vehicle parked near the block of Highland. At 2 a.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect burglarized a petty theft in the 600 block of N. corner of Franklin and Whitley. Sweetzer at 7:20 p.m. burglarized a vehicle parked in the vehicle parked in the 1200 block of An unknown suspect committed a 400 block of Oakhurst. N. Sweetzer. An unknown suspect stole a vehi- petty theft in the 6100 block of At 8 p.m., an unknown suspect cle parked near the corner of Third Franklin at 10:40 p.m. An unknown suspect committed a At 1:17 p.m., an unknown suspect stole a vehicle parked in the 1500 and Fairfax at 9:45 p.m. block of N. Detroit. grand theft in the 200 block of S. committed a petty theft in the 1300 Jan. 19 Reeves at 2 a.m. block of N. Hayworth. Jan. 17 An unknown suspect stole a vehi- At 12:01 a.m., an unknown sus- At 4:20 p.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect committed a cle parked near the corner of A suspect assaulted a victim dur- pect stole a vehicle parked in the committed a petty theft in the 9700 petty theft in the 7100 block of Highland and Second at 9:30 p.m. ing a domestic violence incident 4300 block of Wilshire. block of Wilshire. Santa Monica at 2 p.m. near the corner of Santa Monica Jan. 21 and Robertson at 3 a.m. An unknown suspect committed a An unknown suspect committed a At 4 p.m., an unknown suspect burglary in the 700 block of N. La petty theft in the 400 block of burglarized a vehicle parked in the At 1 a.m., an unknown suspect At 7 a.m., an unknown suspect Cienega at 12:30 a.m. Beverly at 4:50 p.m. 1200 block of N. Harper. committed a burglary in the 7700 stole a vehicle parked in the 400 block of Melrose. block of S. Wilton. At 2 a.m., an unknown suspect At 11:30 p.m., an unknown sus- An unknown suspect committed a committed a petty theft in the 6800 pect committed a petty theft in the petty theft in the 1100 block of N. An unknown suspect committed a An unknown suspect stole a vehi- block of Wilshire. 300 block of S. Elm. Detroit at 5:16 p.m. burglary in the 700 block of N. La cle parked in the 6200 block of Brea at 4:44 a.m. Sixth at 8:30 a.m. An unknown suspect committed a Jan. 18 Jan. 19 petty theft in the 6800 block of At 7:40 a.m., an unknown suspect At 9:20 a.m., an unknown suspect Sunset at 2 a.m. At 3:17 p.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect committed a committed a petty theft in the 6300 committed a burglary in the 800 block of Third. committed a petty theft in the 8300 burglary in the 800 block of Kings block of S. Bedford. At 2:53 a.m., an unknown suspect

block of Wilshire. at 8:30 a.m. committed a burglary near the cor- An unknown suspect stole a vehi- An unknown suspect committed a ner of La Cienega and Olympic. cle parked near the corner of An unknown suspect burglarized a At 1:12 p.m., an unknown suspect petty theft in the 300 block of S. Sycamore and Second at 11:50 vehicle parked in the 200 block of committed a grand theft in the Curson at 10:33 a.m. An unknown suspect committed a a.m. Doheny at 7:30 p.m. 8300 block of Santa Monica. burglary in the 8000 block of Third At 1:40 p.m., an unknown suspect at 5:49 a.m. Jan. 19 An unknown suspect burglarized a robbed a victim near the corner of At 12:50 p.m., an unknown sus- vehicle parked in the 1300 block of Rosewood and Rossmore. At 6 a.m., an unknown suspect pect committed a petty theft in the At 5:45 p.m., an unknown suspect Havenhurst at 7 p.m. committed a petty theft in the 800 1700 block of Whitley. assaulted a victim in the 300 block An unknown suspect committed a block of S. Le Doux. of N. Crescent. Jan. 20 petty theft near the corner of An unknown suspect committed a Sunset and McCadden at 4:30 p.m. An unknown suspect assaulted a petty theft near the corner of Jan. 20 At 11:45 a.m., an unknown sus- victim in the 6800 block of Wilshire and Ridgeley at 2 p.m. pect robbed a victim in the 9000 At 5 p.m., an unknown suspect Hollywood at 8:45 a.m. At 9 a.m., an unknown suspect block of Beverly. stole a vehicle parked in the 1600 At 3 p.m., an unknown suspect committed a grand theft in the block of N. Formosa. At noon, an unknown suspect committed a petty theft in the 7200 8500 block of Wilshire. Jan. 21 committed a burglary in the 800 block of Melrose. An unknown suspect committed a block of N. Sierra Bonita. An unknown suspect assaulted a At 2:40 a.m., an unknown suspect grand theft in the 8800 block of An unknown suspect assaulted a victim in the 400 block of N. Canon committed a burglary in the 8200 Third at 6 p.m.. An unknown suspect committed a victim near the corner of Carling at 7:40 p.m. block of Sunset. burglary in the 1300 block of N. and Orange at 7 p.m. At 6 p.m., an unknown suspect Mansfield at noon. At 9:30 p.m., an unknown suspect stole a vehicle parked in the 1400 At 8 p.m., an unknown suspect Jan. 22 stole a vehicle parked near the stole a vehicle parked in the 8700 block of N. Detroit. At 1 p.m., an unknown suspect corner of Rosewood and Curson. block of Clifton. At 9 a.m., an unknown suspect committed a petty theft in the 1200 burglarized a vehicle parked in the An unknown suspect assaulted a block of N. Western. Jan. 21 8900 block of Santa Monica. victim in the 1700 block of N. An unknown suspect burglarized a Hudson at 7 p.m. An unknown suspect burglarized a vehicle parked in the 51090 block At 12:30 a.m., an unknown sus- vehicle parked in the 1700 block of of Maplewood at 8:30 p.m. Jan. 23 At 8 p.m., an unknown suspect N. Gower at 1 p.m. pect committed a burglary in the burglarized a vehicle parked in the At 9 p.m., an unknown suspect 200 block of Hamilton. A suspect assaulted a victim during 100 block of N. Harper. At 4:30 p.m., an unknown suspect committed a petty theft near the a domestic violence incident in the committed a petty theft in the 6700 corner of Melrose and Fairfax. An unknown suspect burglarized a 7200 block of Fountain at 5:19 a.m. block of Hollywood. vehicle parked near the corner of Jan. 18

Alpine and Burton at 9:30 a.m. At 10:30 a.m., an unknown sus- An unknown suspect robbed a vic- An unknown suspect robbed a vic- pect assaulted a victim in the 8400 At 1:55 a.m., an unknown suspect tim in the 500 block of N. tim in the 1700 block of N. At 3:10 p.m., an unknown suspect block of Santa Monica. committed a burglary in the 1800 Rossmore at 10:45 p.m. Sycamore at 5:30 p.m. committed a petty theft in the 400 block of Ivar.

block of N. Canon. An unknown suspect assaulted a Jan. 22 At 8:20 p.m., an unknown suspect victim in the 500 block of Kings at An unknown suspect committed a robbed a victim in the 7200 block Jan. 22 2:10 p.m. burglary in the 800 block of N. An unknown suspect committed a Highland at 4:17 a.m. of Hollywood. burglary in the 8000 block of Third

At 6:55 a.m., a vandalism incident At 10 p.m., an unknown suspect at 12:01 a.m. At 5:50 a.m., an unknown suspect An unknown suspect committed a was reported in the 200 block of S. assaulted a victim in the 8800 assaulted a victim in the 8700 burglary in the 8300 block of Third Beverly. block of Rosewood at 10 p.m. At 3:15 a.m., an unknown suspect block of Sunset. at 8:30 p.m. burglarized a vehicle parked in the 8300 block of Fourth. An unknown suspect committed a Los Angeles Police An unknown suspect committed a Jan. 20 burglary in the 700 block of N. burglary in the 6300 block of Department An unknown suspect committed a Rodeo at 4:30 p.m. Sunset at 6:13 a.m. At 9:30 a.m., an unknown suspect burglary in the 700 block of N. La assaulted a victim in the 6200 At 7 p.m., an unknown suspect Jan. 16 Cienega at 5:12 a.m. At 8:15 a.m., an unknown suspect block of Willoughby. burglarized a vehicle parked in the committed a burglary in the 600 100 block of N. Almont. At 2:20 a.m., an unknown suspect At 4:53 p.m., an unknown suspect committed a petty theft in the 500 block of Masselin. An unknown suspect committed a grand theft in the 300 block of N. committed a petty the 900 block of block of S. Gramercy. N. Highland. Jan. 23 An unknown suspect stole a vehi- Ridgewood at 1:17 a.m. An unknown suspect stole a vehi- cle parked in the 5500 block of At 1:18 a.m., an unknown suspect cle parked in the 600 block of S. Sixth at 10 a.m. An unknown suspect committed a An unknown suspect stole a vehi- committed a petty theft in the 800 Cochran at 10 a.m. burglary in the 300 block of N. cle parked in the 600 block of S. block of Cinthia. At 11 a.m., an unknown suspect Poinsettia at 11:30 a.m. Cochran at 5 p.m. At 10 a.m., a suspect assaulted a committed a petty theft in the 500 An unknown suspect committed a victim during a domestic violence block of Sunset. An unknown suspect committed a At 6:30 p.m., an unknown suspect burglary in the 9100 block of Third incident in the 6800 block of petty theft in the 5800 block of stole a vehicle parked near the at 3:03 a.m. Sunset. An unknown suspect committed a Santa Monica at 12:30 p.m. corner of Franklin and Fuller. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 15 January 28, 2021

Farmers Market welcomes newest merchant, Rick’s Produce The Original Farmers Market family farm, as well as produce tive vice president of the A.F. welcomes farmer Rick Dominguez from other small local farms. Rick’s Gilmore Company, owner of the and Rick’s Produce Market, open- Produce Market will also offer Original Farmers Market. “Rick ing on Friday, Jan. 29. Dominguez hand-made guacamole, salsas, and his family have taken such care has more than 14 years of organic smoothies, juices, acai bowls, jams, in cultivating their farm’s crops and farming experience and will offer made-to-order sandwiches and developing their brick-and-mortar fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables more. Stop by from Jan. 29-31 and produce business. They are truly from his family farm in Fallbrook, receive a 10% discount. emblematic of the entrepreneurial California. “I was honored when the man- spirit that our family-owned busi- In 2017, Dominguez opened his agement of the Original Farmers nesses have thrived on for 86 years first storefront in Silver Lake. Market approached me about open- and we look forward to their long During the past several months, ing a second, larger location at and continued success at the mar- Rick’s Produce Market also operat- Third and Fairfax,” Dominguez ket.” ed out of a temporary stall at the said. “This has been Los Angeles’ Rick’s Produce will be open from Farmers Market, and will open in go-to spot for groceries since 1934 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., daily. Online its new permanent location on the when farmers first sold their goods orders for home delivery can be south side of the market in stall from the back of pick-up trucks. I made by visiting the Original #126, across from Marconda’s am thrilled to play a part in the mar- Farmers Market’s page at Puritan Poultry and T&Y Bakery. ket’s continuing legacy.” mercato.com. photo courtesy of the Original Farmers Market Dominguez will offer seasonal and “Rick’s Produce is a fantastic, The Original Farmers Market is Rick Dominguez will officially open his new produce stand at the Farmers freshly-picked produce sustainably- new addition to our grocery pro- located at 6333 W. Third St. Visit Market on Friday. grown without chemicals on his gram,” added Stan Savage, execu- farmersmarketla.com. Join FIDM and Mona May in online talk The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising is holding a free virtual discussion with costume designer and FIDM alumna Mona May today, Jan. 28, from 5 to 6 p.m. May is celebrating the 25th anniversary of “Clueless,” a film that boosted her career profession- rendering courtesy of the Fountain Theatre ally and continues to influence sar- The Fountain Theatre hopes to reopen production on its outdoor stage torial trends. in late spring or early summer. May’s other television and film work includes “Romy and Michele's High School Reunion,” “Never Been Kissed,” “The photo courtesy of FIDM Fountain Theatre plans to raise Wedding Singer,” “Enchanted” and Mona May discusses her career as a costume designer tonight at 5 p.m. “Santa Clarita Diet.” Viewers will the curtain outdoors learn about her successful career in Hollywood, how she got started and The Fountain Theatre has community engagement programs. advice about pursuing a career in SUPERBOWLL received approval from the city of The outdoor stage will be the cen- costume design. Los Angeles to install a temporary terpiece as we reemerge in 2021. It The conversation will be hosted FEB 7!!! outdoor stage for live performances galvanizes our vision moving for- by Nick Verreos, FIDM chair of and other events during the pan- ward.” fashion and costume design. As a demic. The Fountain Theatre outdoor fashion designer, his collections of Stock up on party goods now! “Pandemic permitting, we hope stage was made possible by the red carpet gowns and cocktail to open our first outdoor production support of Karen Kondazian, the dresses have been worn by celebri- by late spring or early summer,” Vladimir and Araxia Buckhantz ties including Beyoncé, Katy Perry Fountain Theater artistic director Foundation, Rabbi Anne Brener, and Heidi Klum. Now a consulting ™ Stephen Sachs said. “We’re plan- Carrie Chassin and Jochen Haber, producer for “Project Runway” on We ning an exciting Los Angeles pre- Miles and Joni Benickes, and the Bravo, Verreos is also an alumnus miere that dramatizes urgent social Phillips-Gerla Family. and mentor for the show. issues using the Fountain’s signa- For information, visit foun- Admission is free. Visit VaVa l tne i n e’’ss Daay! ture bold and theatrical approach.” taintheatre.com. bit.ly/fidm_monamay. Balloons, banner ,s party ffaa rov s , pap goodser , Installed in the theater parking lot, the new performance area will wrapping, bows, and sweets ffoor your sweet! be able to accommodate 50-84 audience members. It will feature Cupid Floaat seven rows of chairs, each six feet brCele ate the apart, as well as 12 high-top tables positioned six feet apart for use by YeYear of the Ox! patrons from the same households. Every aspect of the outdoor perfor- Get all your party mance area will meet COVID-19 safety guidelines. supplies here ffoor “The most painful aspect of the past 10 months has been the separa- tion from our patrons and the dis- Enjoynj a Chinese connection from our art form,” Sachs said. “Until our indoor the- sweet treat New YeYear ater reopens, the outdoor stage will be a thrilling performance venue r 2021! and a hub for our educational and with you sweet heart! Support Local 10% off all merchandise Journalism! in the storewith this coupon! Subscribe Today! discounted merchandise, balloons and balloon delivery excluded FOR HOME DELIVERY WITH THE LOS ANGELES TIMES, CALL In the Original Farmers Market 3rd & Fairfax 213-283-2274 (323)933-844() 47 Bak eryy mentino code 9003 (323)933-8446 Restaurant 5969 Melrose AvAve. (corner of Wilcox) • (323)467-7124 16 January 28, 2021 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Netflix’s ‘Bridgerton’ deserves all the praise

Gossip, sexual tension and the next James Bond sizzle in Netflix’s answer to “Downton Abbey.” OK, fine. Breakout star Regé-Jean Page probably won’t become the next 007, but he’s got charm for days, and Regency-era “Bridgerton,” based on the Julia Quinn book photo courtesy of The Getty/©Netflix, Inc. series, provides the perfect outlet for The Getty examines the real and imagined paintings of “Bridgerton.” him and a splendid cast to show off. “Bridgerton” presents a counter- memory, to borrow a term from photo courtesy of Netflix Michel Foucault, of high society in Regé-Jean Page and Phoebe Dynevor excel in their roles in Art is everywhere in ‘Bridgerton' pre-Victorian England. Expect all “Bridgerton,” a Netflix series based on the Julia Quinn book series. In “Bridgerton,” the period diverse. The show’s production the pomp and circumstance of such melodrama streaming on Netflix, designers have created portraits a period drama with one difference: host of other subplots grace the duction by Shonda Rhimes art is everywhere, and everyone is of Black aristocrats to hang elevated status of Black characters. screen as well. Anthony’s own mis- (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal,” talking about it. Set in early 19th- alongside well-known paintings This allows Duke Simon Basset adventures with love that prove “How to Get Away with Murder”). century England, the series focus- of white nobles by artists like (Page) to easily rise above the com- racial integration doesn’t always “Bridgerton” marks the first of sev- es on the high-born Bridgerton Anthony van Dyck and Thomas petition amidst courting season mean classism also finds a remedy. eral projects Rhimes will pump out family as its eldest daughter nav- Gainsborough.” when all the young ladies are for- Another young lady (dare we not for the streaming service in the next igates the complex rituals of the Rand offers the example of mally presented to eligible suitors say who) must quickly tie the knot, few years. 1813 debutante season. The Getty “Bridgerton’s” Queen Charlotte in hopes of landing a husband of lest everyone learn of her unwed “Bridgerton” might feel unlike Museum’s Richard Rand watched sitting before a portrait based on social merit. pregnancy. other Rhimes projects as a the show and reports that art, and Diego Velázquez’s celebrated Daphne Bridgerton (Phoebe And keeping things thematically Regency-era series, but it has all the how the characters engage with it, likeness of Juan de Pareja. Dynevor) serves as the first daugh- on track, several other Bridgertons scandal of everything else she signs often reflect the racial and sexual “It is an illuminating inclusion: ter of her household in such a posi- traverse the social landscape in off on. But as a period piece, what politics that drive the narrative. Pareja, of mixed race, was an tion, catching the eye of Queen search of purpose. Eloise (Claudia counts as salacious seems more “Art, and how the characters enslaved assistant in the artist’s Charlotte (Golda Rosheuvel) Jessie), a proto-suffragette if ever mundane today. A premarital kiss engage with it, underscore the studio ... The resulting composite almost immediately. But elder there was one, soon must follow in must lead to marriage or a duel, racial and sexual politics that image transforms an actual por- brother Anthony (Jonathan Bailey) her older sister’s footsteps, though only men know anything about sex drive the show’s narrative,” Rand trait of an enslaved artist into an overplays his hand, deterring many she would rather go to college and ed and donning the same dress at a said. imaginary one of a Black aristo- interested young men from visiting make a name for herself. Then ball is unheard of. Rand highlighted how one plot crat, ” he said. “English society in Daphne. there’s brothers Colin (Luke To help us understand how line imagines that “‘England’s ‘Bridgerton’ assumes racial har- Meanwhile, Simon cares not for Newton) and Benedict (Luke improper all these things are for the first Black queen’ has integrated mony, however idealistically.” the limelight, especially from possi- Thompson), who texture the series, time, thank Dame Julie Andrews, British society and that racial Aside from ancestral portraits ble spouses. He especially shares never serving more than roles that the series’ narrator voicing the equality is an accepted fact of and one landscape, Rand notes little in common with Daphne, complement others’ stories. anonymous gossip writer Lady life.” that Greek and Roman myths other than a connection through The driving story belongs to Whistledown so knowledgeable of “Indeed, the interracial form the primary subjects of the Anthony, Simon’s oldest friend. Daphne and Simon. Their loathing everything under the sun. The romance of the main protagonists, paintings in “Bridgerton.” Despite a shared disdain for each turned friendship (and possibly writer’s true identity remains a Daphne Bridgerton and Simon, “Art, in ‘Bridgerton,’ may rein- other, Simon and Daphne must more) provides the delicious drama secret throughout the first season, Duke of Hastings, is the least force the status quo, but it also work together. expected of such an undertaking. but Andrews’ tone and the words scandalous aspect of their rela- can visualize emancipation,” he The pair secretly plot to go And setting the story in the 1810s themselves help initiate us all into tionship,” he said. “The paintings said. through the motions of courting in permits familiar tropes a bit more another time two centuries ago. gracing the walls of the queen’s For more information, visit order to make Daphne more desir- leeway, like Simon the bad boy Much like other Rhimes produc- splendid residences are also getty.edu. able to other men. And in return, with sexual experience and Daphne tions, the social commentary Simon, who rejects the “obligation” the innocent daughter hellbent on doesn’t arrive with a slew of of such a union, can appease watch- fulfilling her central task. PowerPoint notes on all the social ful eyes hoping he will soon settle That said, these two don’t reside woes women of the time must down. in such positions for very long. endure. Showrunner Chris Van That’s all just the first episode. A That’s to be expected of any pro- Dusen, who worked on several pre- vious Shondaland productions, also deserves some praise on that front as well. Race, class and gender issues are easily present, oft what drives dialogue and motivations between each line, occasionally bursting from a character’s lips with righteous anger. It all works, remarkably. “Bridgerton” is a breezy binge- watch at eight episodes (though the finale is double the length), but more is already set to come. Alas, that news comes with an odd choice: greater focus on Anthony, perhaps the most annoying charac- ter in season one. Perhaps he’ll grow. Regardless, this one’s a mas- photo courtesy of Netflix sive hit sure to keep the lights on for Golda Rosheuvel is splendid as Queen Charlotte in “Bridgerton,” which several years to come. Pray the is set in the 1810s. great Julie Andrews sticks around. KCCLA’s global concert is Friday, Jan. 29 The Korean Cultural Center, Los “We prepared ‘Virtual Live Angeles is presenting an online Global Concert,’ a series of concert, “Concert of Voice from KCCLA’s cultural outreach pro- Different Backgrounds,” on Friday, gram with the University of Jan. 29, at 5 p.m. Central Florida, in order to pro- The virtual program, which mote Korean culture more actively includes a lecture and concert, will in the pandemic,” KCCLA feature Yoon Joo Hwang, a profes- Director Wijin Park said. “I hope sor of bassoon at the University of this global concert will help musi- Central Florida, and Nora Lee cians with diverse emotions under- Garcia, a professor of flute at the stand and interact with Korean University of Central Florida. music." Principal Bassoon for the Tokyo The lecture is intended to help Philharmonic Orchestra and the people learn more about Korean photo courtesy of KCCLA Shanghai Philharmonic Orchestra folk songs. For more information, Bassoonist Yoon Joo Hwang will Min Chen will also participate. visit kccla.org. perform in Friday’s concert. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 17 January 28, 2021

Virtual service commemorates Holocaust Remembrance Day In observance of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum held a special virtual com- memoration with Holocaust sur- Larry King Square vivors and leaders from the United States and Europe on Jan. 27. Eight decades after the Holocaust began, people worldwide paused on the anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz to honor the memory of Europe’s Jews, who were targeted for annihilation. During the virtual ceremony, par- ticipants conveyed the urgent responsibility we all share to pro- tect the lessons and legacy of Holocaust history and to defend the truth.

This year marks 76 years since photo courtesy of the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum the liberation of Auschwitz- The International Holocaust Remembrance Day commemoration cere- Birkenau, the largest Nazi concen- tration camp, by the Soviet Army. mony in the Hall of Remembrance on Jan. 24, 2020, allowed for an in- The United Nations established person gathering. International Holocaust Remembrance Day in 2005 to lion Jews murdered in the The event can be viewed at honor the memory of the six mil- Holocaust. youtube.com/holocaustmuseum.

Longtime CNN broadcaster Larry King was joined by then-Los Angeles City Councilmen Tom LaBonge, left, and Eric Garcetti for the WeHo human rights series focuses on ‘Disclosure’ dedication of Larry King Square in Hollywood in this photograph from the July 17, 2008, issue of the Park Labrea News and Beverly Press. The city of West Hollywood’s including Laverne Cox, Lilly TransCanWork Drian Juarez and King died on Jan. 23 at the age of 87. The city of Los Angeles dedicat- human rights speakers series host- Wachowski, Yance Ford, Mj Vice Chair of West Hollywood’s ed the intersection of Sunset and Cahuenga boulevards as Larry King ed a free panel discussion this Rodriguez, Jamie Clayton and Transgender Advisory Board Square on July 10, 2008, in recognition of King’s decades of work as week about the currently stream- Chaz Bono, share their reactions Alexis Sanchez. Councilman John a broadcaster and talk show host. His “Larry King Live” show ended ing Netflix documentary, and resistance to some of Erickson moderated the discus- in 2010 after 25 years on CNN. The square is located outside the CNN “Disclosure.” The documentary is Hollywood’s most beloved sion. building at 6430 Sunset Blvd., with a special sign noting the designa- an eye-opening look at depictions moments. West Hollywood’s human rights tion at the southwest corner of the intersection. of transgender people in film and The free virtual panel discus- speakers series brings together television, revealing how sion, which streamed on Jan. 27, is diverse communities to learn about “Hollywood” simultaneously available to watch online at and discuss global, national and reflects and manufactures society’s weho.org/hrss. local human rights issues in a sup- deepest anxieties about gender. The event featured director Sam portive environment and reflects Celebrities join to celebrate In the documentary, leading Feder, Laverne Cox, Vice the city’s commitment to human Marion Wiesel’s 90th birthday transgender thinkers and creatives, President of Programs for rights. In celebration of Marion Wiesel’s 90th birthday, the Elie Wiesel Foundation for Humanity and the Women’s International Zionist Organization held a star- studded virtual event with Oprah Winfrey, George Clooney, Mayim Bialik and a musical performance by Idan Raichel on Jan. 27. The celebration on International Holocaust Remembrance Day honored Marion’s living legacy, including her visionary work alongside her late husband and Nobel Peace Prize winner Elie Wiesel to establish the Beit Tzipora Centers in Israel. photo courtesy of Beit Tzipora Centers Since their founding, thousands Marion Wiesel of children have participated in Beit Tzipora programs. opportunity. “As a refugee who spent her The Wiesels founded the Beit childhood fleeing violence and Tzipora Centers in the mid-1990s persecution, I learned firsthand the in memory of Elie’s sister, Tzipora, great challenges of finding your who died in the Holocaust, to sup- footing in a new land. My husband port the education of Ethiopian- and I founded the Beit Tzipora Israeli children and families and Centers to provide support and provide opportunities for them to educational opportunities for participate fully in Israeli society. Ethiopian children and families in The centers are now managed by Israel. I am honored to spend my WIZO and provide a range of edu- 90th birthday sharing the stories of cational services and enrichment these families – and highlighting programs for over 700 children the remarkable impact that this annually. program continues to make year “We are thrilled that so many after year,” Marion Wiesel said. dear friends are coming together to The centers are a key highlight celebrate my mother’s 90th birth- of Marion Wiesel’s more than six day and her life’s work fighting decades of social and racial justice intolerance and injustice and sup- work. After arriving in the United porting education and equality,” States as a refugee in the early said Elisha Wiesel, Marion and 1950s, Marion joined the NAACP, Elie Wiesel’s son. “This event marching for civil rights and powerfully [conveyed] the life- speaking out against discrimina- changing work of the Beit Tzipora tion in the segregated South. Four Centers – and [raised] funds to decades later, she became deeply ensure that they continue to thrive involved in supporting the grow- for generations to come. There is ing community of Ethiopian no 90th birthday present that could refugees in Israel. An ardent be more meaningful for my moth- Zionist, Wiesel wanted to ensure er.” that the Jewish state served as a For more information or to make model of racial equality and equal a donation, visit beittzipora.org. 18 January 28, 2021 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Woody Harrelson narrates ‘Kiss Local students nominated as Presidential Scholars The National YoungArts the Ground: For Schools’ Foundation announced that 11 of Directors Josh Tickell and on-street interviews with Rosario 60 nominees for the 2021 U.S. Rebecca Harrell Tickell will Dawson and a scene in which Presidential Scholars in the Arts, release “Kiss the Ground: For Tony Tenfingers, a Lakota elder, one of the nation’s highest honors Schools,” a 45-minute-long edu- describes the importance of the for high school students who exem- cational version of their latest crit- once-prevalent buffalo for Native plify artistic and academic excel- ically lauded eco-documentary, Americans. The movie is also lence, hail from Los Angeles. “Kiss the Ground.” available with subtitles in 18 lan- YoungArts is the sole nominating The new version is free to all guages including English (closed agency for this honor and the 60 schools, students, teachers and caption), Spanish and Mandarin. candidates, representing 19 states community educators at kissthe- “Rebecca and I are proud to pre- and 10 artistic disciplines, are all groundmovie.com. sent this new version of ‘Kiss The YoungArts award winners. “‘Kiss the Ground: For Ground’ for free and make it wide- The nominations followed the Schools’ represents a watershed ly available online to 114,000 U.S. first week of National YoungArts Week+, the virtual adaptation of the moment for our country’s educa- schools and to over 35 million stu- photo courtesy of National YoungArts Foundation tional system,” Rebecca Tickell dents nationally and millions more organization’s annual signature pro- Visual artist and U.S. Presidential Scholars in the Arts nominee Kacey gram, National YoungArts Week. said. “This is the first time that cli- internationally,” Josh Tickell said. Kim, a student at Harvard-Westlake, uses herself in many of her works, Open to YoungArts award winners mate change reversal through “One of the key messages in our such as “Oppression.” regeneration and drawdown will film is today’s youth are the best at the finalist level, 2021 National be taught in classrooms – both positioned leaders to implement YoungArts Week+ included virtual online and in person. The new ver- the practices of regeneration and classes and workshops during ordinary artists to the White House Aponte, Chloe Hoffman, William sion of the film for schools and the climate change reversal.” which the artists were further evalu- Commission on Presidential Lula and Theodore Taplitz, Charter forthcoming curricula will pro- To facilitate the success of this ated for nomination to the program. Scholars,” YoungArts Executive High School of Arts-Multimedia vide powerful new tools to stu- educational release, Big Picture The candidates will be reviewed Director Jewel Malone said. “This and Performing student Ella Fields, dents everywhere.” Ranch, which was founded by the by the White House Commission past year has brought great chal- Laurel Springs School student The winner of over 40 film fes- Tickells, has partnered with on Presidential Scholars, which lenges to us all, but seeing these Oliviana Marie Halus-Griep, tival prizes, “Kiss the Ground” is Ro*co Films, a leading distributor will ultimately select 20 high artists persevere and overcome Brentwood School student Joseph narrated by Woody Harrelson and of documentary films with an school seniors to be recognized for such immense uncertainty, change Karz, Harvard-Westlake School centers on how human beings can expertise in the academic market. their academic and artistic accom- and upheaval has given us all hope. students Kacey Kim, Chiemeka reverse global warming using the “As a mission-driven documen- plishments, demonstrated leader- We look forward to seeing what Offor and Allison Park, and earth’s soil as the solution. The tary distribution company, we are ship, community service, outreach each of them accomplish next.” Viewpoint School student Charlotte film shows how by regenerating honored to play a role in bringing initiatives and overall creativity. The local nominees include Los Sedaka. earth, humans can stabilize the this powerful film and resource to “National YoungArts Foundation Angeles County High School for For more information, visit planet’s climate, restore lost all schools, without the financial is proud to nominate these 60 extra- the Arts students Shaman Magic youngarts.org. ecosystems and create abundant barriers that too-often limit what food supplies. With epic footage students get to experience in the shot on five continents, stunning classroom,” Ro*co Films founder Beverly Hills High School earns female diversity award animation and striking visuals and CEO Annie Roney said. Beverly Hills High School was Services. “We could not be more Sanford, College Board chief of from the National Aeronautics and In addition, the film has part- one of 1,119 schools to receive this proud of BHHS female students for global policy and external relations. Space Administration and the nered with the National Science year’s College Board AP Computer staking their claim as the next gen- “Young women deserve an equal National Oceanic and Teaching Association to bring free Science Female Diversity Award eration of STEM and computer sci- opportunity to become the next Atmospheric Administration, the science lesson plans and student for achieving high female represen- ence professionals. We can’t wait to generation of entrepreneurs, engi- documentary conveys this critical activity sheets to educators and tation in the class. Schools honored see their passion for next genera- neers and tech leaders. Closing the message through the voices of students nationwide. with the award have expanded tion technology lead to lifelong gap in computer science education leading scientists, ecologists and The new, classroom-ready girls’ access in AP computer sci- success.” empowers young women to build experts including Nobel laureates materials will explore regenera- ence courses. In 2020, BHHS was In the class, students learn to the future they want.” in climate, members of the tion topics and will be available in one of 232 schools recognized in design and implement computer According to BHUSD, providing International Panel on Climate late March, just before Earth the category of AP Computer programs that solve problems rele- female students with access to com- Change, top NOAA scientists and Month in April. Educators inter- Science A. vant to today’s society. The number puter science courses is critical to multiple environmental activists ested in receiving the materials “During an unprecedented year, of female students taking the exam ensuring gender parity in the indus- including Gisele Bündchen, Tom can pre-register at nsta.org/kiss- BHHS female students have has grown steadily, up nearly 25% try’s high-paying jobs and to drive Brady and Patricia Arquette. theground. demonstrated perseverance and since 2017. Overall AP computer innovation, creativity and represen- The film is currently playing on A DVD version, which includes dedication in their study of AP science course participation has tation. The median annual wage for Netflix and Vimeo on Demand. both the 45-minute education cut Computer Science,” said Dustin increased 79% since 2017. computer and information technol- “Kiss the Ground: For Schools” and the original 84-minute ver- Seeman, Beverly Hills Unified “BHHS’s students need the ogy occupations was $88,240 in has new scenes not in the feature sion, is available free to schools at School District Assistant power to shape technology, not just May 2019, according to a study film including a series of person- kissthegroundmovie.com. Superintendent of Education cope with it,” said Stefanie cited by BHUSD.

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 January 28, 2021

BHHS dancers premiere new works on Feb. 5 The Beverly Hills High School Dance Company will premiere its new show online on Feb. 5 at 7 p.m. The performance can be accessed anytime after the pre- miere at bhhs.bhusd.org/dance- company. All of the dance pieces have been made into dance films. The concert features guest choreogra- phers Sam Allen, Victoria George (dance teacher at Beverly Vista Middle School), Neaz Kohani and Janet Roston, as well as work by BHHS Artistic Director Dana Findley. The show also has seven student choreographers: Alyssa photo courtesy of BHUSD Balbier, Noa Brenner, Carla photo courtesy of NHMLAC Bueno, Georgia Evensen, Beverly Hills High School’s dance students perform free online. A saber-toothed cat skeleton was assembled from fossils excavated Madison Heller, Nicolette Kay from Pit 91 at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum. and Jasmine Singer. concert although donations can be Company program at There is no cost to watch the made to the BHHS Dance bhhs.bhusd.org/dancedonations. Volunteers can digitize past Students invited to participate in ‘K-Story’ book contest research at the La Brea Tar Pits The Korean Cultural Center, Los Korean speakers can also read and picture of their most memorable The La Brea Tar Pits and formed,” said Regan Dunn, assis- Angeles is holding its “K-Story enjoy the stories. scene from the story, and write a Museum, part of the Natural tant curator at La Brea Tar Pits and Book Report Contest,” a fun com- Using KCCLA’s “K-Story” sentence or two describing it. History Museums of Los Angeles Museum. petition for students in K-12th Korean folktales as reference, stu- Fourth through 12th grade students County, has launched a new com- The project will allow the cura- grades. dents will submit a book report have two options; reports should be munity science initiative titled tors, researchers and students to ask KCCLA recently launched a new online. The contest has categories 500-800 words. Either summarize “Sedimental Values: Digging in to new, better-informed research ques- project for students with an interest for different grade levels: K-third, the story, figure out the moral and La Brea’s Past.” The program is a tions about paleoecology in in Korean language and culture fourth through sixth, seventh use it to relate to your own life, or collaboration with the University of Southern California. using traditional Korean folktales through ninth and 10th through describe your impression of the Michigan and Zooniverse to digi- “We can’t wait to share the new popularly read among young chil- 12th grades. story and compare it with a western tize 40 years of fossil field data knowledge we will uncover and to dren. Like many folktales and Eight videos are available for version. from Pit 91. Named for being the give more people an opportunity to fables, Korean folktales (jeon-rae- viewing on the KCCLA YouTube Winners will be chosen from 91st hole dug by early paleontolo- find out what has been excavated, dong-hwa) include stories about channel under the playlist “K- each of the four categories. Each gists, Pit 91 is an active fossil site at but left undiscovered in closed people and animals, and teach Story: Korean Folktale.” will receive a Korean Culture the La Brea Tar Pits that holds thou- boxes for many decades,” said morals suitable for all ages. Participants can select any of the Award from KCCLA and a $100 sands of specimens of extinct plants Aisling Farrell, collections manager KCCLA translated the folktales and eight stories. K through third grade Amazon gift card. For information, and animals in asphalt. at La Brea Tar Pits and Museum. used illustrated pictures so non- students will be asked to draw a email [email protected]. With the help of interested volun- Anyone with a computer and teers, “Sedimental Values” will cap- web access can help with the digiti- ture 40 years of fossil field data zation project hosted on from Pit 91 through the transcrip- Zooniverse, a free community sci- tion of notes from the past, museum ence platform. Create an account officials said. and follow instructions on how to “This project makes a unique participate in the La Brea Tar Pits dataset available, which will allow project by visiting collections staff to plan for future zooniverse.org/projects/jmschell/se curatorial work – and analyze the dimental-values-digging-in-to-la- way that the fossil deposits breas-past.

Virtual

photo courtesy of the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County “First Fridays Connected: L.A. at the Intersections” is a free event series which begins on Friday, Feb. 5. Sunday, January 31, 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM First Fridays returns to NHM The Natural History Museum of fessor and infectious diseases spe- Los Angeles County is connecting cialist at Keck Medicine of USC. homebound audiences to timely After the discussions, enjoy an discussions and music with virtual indie rock and electronic pop per- “First Fridays Connected: L.A. at formance by Vagabon, moniker of the Intersections.” Cameroonian singer/songwriter On Friday, Feb. 5, groove at Laetitia Tamkodance. home with KCRW resident DJ NHM members are afforded an Novena Carmel and prepare a spe- exclusive preview to watch the pre- cial cocktail presented by Elle show conversation “Secrets from Nucci. Then, dive into a lively live the Vault” with Pearse as she asks stream discussion around Solace in Lindsay Walker, NHM collections Contact the school or visit our website Science, moderated by neuroscien- manager of invertebrate paleontol- tist and science communicator ogy, about the museum’s collections for more information. Yewande Pearse, host of Dublab’s and details hidden in plain sight. 323.938.9976 • cathedralchapelschool.org monthly podcast. Panelists include The event is free; however, reser- UCLA Fielding School of Public vations are required. Health Professor Ninez Ponce and For more information, visit 755 South Cochran Ave. Edward Jones-López, assistant pro- http://bit.ly/ffcfeb21. Los Angeles, CA 90036 20 January 28, 2021 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press The Music Center and Dublab launch ‘A Quiet Scene’ The Music Center and nonprofit radio station Dublab have partnered to offer “A Quiet Scene: L.A.,” a free film competition and screening initiative. Through Feb. 21, the public is invited to submit a short original film that is an authentic reflection of Los Angeles during current times. The program is open to all ages, although minors will need parental consent to submit an entry. Each short film must be paired with – and filmed in duration photo courtesy of Snap Productions to – one of the seven tracks featured Los Angeles entrepreneur Ginger Campbell (left) will kick off Jewell on the EP, “Luminous,” composed Jordan Publishing’s Black History Month speaker series in a virtual con- by pioneering ambient music artists artwork by Radha Vishnubhotla versation with Stephana Colbert. and brothers, Roger and Brian Eno, “A Quiet Scene: L.A.” is a film competition and screening project inspired and released by Deutsche by the album “Luminous” by Roger and Brian Eno. Grammophon. The recent album is Storytellers celebrate Black a follow-up to the duo’s lauded debut album, “Mixing Colours.” Awardees of “official selections” and uplifts audiences through the Tracks on “Luminous” are and “best films” will be notified on arts,” Music Center president and History Month virtually “Moss,” “Violet,” “Manganese,” Tuesday, March 16, and their films CEO Rachel Moore said. “As the In celebration of Black History wants to accomplish motivates her. “Vermillion,” “Marble,” “Pewter” will be screened publicly on the world comes to terms with our Month and Women’s History Colbert’s recent book shares the and “Malachite.” Interested film- large LED screens on Jerry Moss common experience of isolation Month, author and publisher journeys of 12 women whose sto- makers may submit their work on Plaza at the Music Center from and self-reflection over the last Stephana Colbert will host virtual ries are meant to represent hundreds filmfreeway.com/aquietscenela March 20 to April 18. In addition to year, arts experiences are a healing conversations with women profiled of thousands of African-American through Sunday, Feb. 21, before the outdoor exhibition, the best and unifying remedy. in the upcoming book, “Ordinary women whose stories go untold. midnight. films will also be featured for view- “‘A Quiet Scene’ will provide the Extraordinary African American “Colbert knows that if we do not Film submissions should be ing on the Music Center Offstage, opportunity for Los Angeles artists Women: As We Mature.” The book set pen to paper and create a narra- scored to a single “Luminous” track the performing arts center’s virtual [and] filmmakers to collaborate and features the life-stories of women tive around their stories, these and will be evaluated based on “a platform. The Music Center will be part of a body of work originated who have experienced heartache women and their stories will vanish quiet scene” interpretation of Los further extend the project by part- by the Eno brothers in its original and joy while persevering in the from our histories,” wrote Myko Angeles, reflection of current times nering with ArtworxL.A. to engage form as ‘Mixing Colours.’ With the face of struggle. Campbell of Snap Productions in a and creativity and originality of the students as they learn about various idea of blurring the lines between Colbert is the founder of Jewell statement. “Were it not for the work. Production quality and value approaches to combining sound audience and artists, ‘A Quiet Jordan Publishing, a small indepen- book, ‘Hidden Figures,’ the people will also be taken into consideration. and imagery, culminating in their Scene: L.A.’ aims to be inclusive dent publisher. The first event is of this country and the world would To expand community participa- own short film projects inspired by and interactive, providing a sense Sunday, Jan. 31, at noon, and never have known about the contri- tion, the Music Center and Dublab the creative process of “Mixing of comfort and enrichment,” added Colbert will interview Los Angeles butions that African-American have partnered with Outfest, Visual Colours.” Alejandro Cohen, director at resident Ginger Campbell, CEO of women – Mary Jackson, Katherine Communications and Latino Film “‘A Quiet Scene: L.A.’ brings Dublab. Snap Productions, to discuss her Johnson, Dorothy Vaughn and Institute, three L.A.-based film orga- people together through the experi- For more information, plus com- chapter in the book, “Following many others – made to NASA back nizations, for their film festival ence of listening, creating and enjoy- plete terms and conditions for the Her Passion.” in the 60s.” expertise and deep commitment to ing films that complement the con- contest, vist musiccenter.org/aqui- As a single mother and entrepre- All conversations will be virtual supporting under-represented voices. templative tracks of ‘Luminous,’ etscenela. neur, Campbell has endured a myr- and tickets are free. iad of challenges and triumphs For more information, visit along her journey, but her passion eventbrite.com/o/ginger-campbell- for what she does and what she 8137428034.

photo courtesy of the Music Center U-Space co-founders Jason Arimoto and Petrice Oyama are among the guest curators for the Music Center’s “For the Love of L.A.” ‘For the Love of L.A.’ continues Feb. 2 The Music Center’s digital series, “For the Love of L.A.” continues “For the Love of L.A.,” celebrates with four new guest curator collab- the creativity of Los Angeles and orations who helped identify local supports L.A.-based artists repre- artists, including Jason Arimoto and senting the disciplines of music, Petrice Oyama (U-Space co- dance, visual culture and more. In founders), Leeav Sofer (artistic its first season, “For the Love of director and co-founder of the L.A.” provided 35 L.A. artists with Urban Voices Project), the a platform to express their views of Women’s Center for Creative Work L.A. that are relevant and reflective and Eva Recinos (journalist/writer). of the current time. Beginning Feb. 2, the Music The initiative’s new season con- Center will premiere the second tinues the Music Center’s commit- season of artwork from more than ment to present new artwork 15 additional artists newly named through video, photography and to the program. Additional artists creative writing disciplines. and their artwork will continue to Starting on Tuesday, Feb. 2, and appear weekly through April 20, continuing on Tuesdays through including the three finalists of April 20 on the Music Center’s “L.A.’s Feminist Idols,” a competi- Instagram and Offstage platform, tion by the Women’s Center for new art will be featured each week. Creative Work that is calling for The Music Center Offstage is the creative projects representing the organization’s virtual platform experience of gender marginalized offering newly curated program- people. ming including the commission and For more information, visit mus- presentation of original artwork. iccenter.org. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 21 January 28, 2021

FromRestaurants page 1 in dire need, chamber CEOs say BH council unlikely to have ly,” Ferrer said. With the numbers improving, Los past terms count toward limit Angeles County has started the From page 1 reopening process, with hair and nail salons, multifamily gatherings declined to take action, the resi- towards the limit. Friedman and and other formerly prohibited activ- dents could put the item on the Wunderlich are in their first ities allowed to resume after the ballot themselves by gathering terms, while Mirisch, Bosse and state order was lifted. More restric- signatures. Gold are in their third terms. tions will ease tomorrow, Jan. 29, “This is an item we should “I think that if we don’t include including those on outdoor dining allow our residents to vote on and ourselves as part of the limits, for restaurants, breweries and see how they feel about it,” that we are really giving a prefer- wineries. Councilwoman Lili Bosse said. ence to ourselves,” Friedman “While these current trends are If approved, the term limits said. encouraging and we’re pleased and would prevent any official from City Attorney Laurence we’re grateful for the work people serving in that same role for more Wiener said that may not be pos- have done to get here … we do need than three terms, though they sible, as the state Attorney to move through the next few weeks could serve in other positions. General’s Office said term limits with a lot of caution,” Ferrer said. “You can serve on the school apply prospectively, meaning the West Hollywood Mayor Lindsey photo by Cameron Kiszla board and then three terms on the only terms that count toward a Horvath said she’s “very happy to Now-empty dining patios may be brimming with customers starting on Jan. 29. council,” Councilman Julian limit are those served after the see that we can reopen aspects of Gold said. term limits are approved. Wiener our economy that have been closed Three council members agreed added that, to his knowledge, the indefinitely ... but this is not a time for so long into unsafe social- uals and companies. that the measure could be put to issue of applying past terms to to lose focus on preventing commu- engagement environments,” “This bill will alleviate some of the voters on Nov. 2, the next term limits has not been tested in nity spread.” Morrill said. that financial burden that these reg- regularly scheduled election in appeals court, though he will “We have to remain vigilant in Morrill suggested that govern- ulations have caused in order to Los Angeles County. Some return with more information keeping people safe and we know ments at all levels look for long- comply with COVID-19 regula- members of the council proposed when he brings back the draft how to do that, by keeping our dis- term solutions, such as widespread tions,” Ghadban said. that, due to the lower turnout of ordinance to put term limits on tance, by practicing social distanc- rapid testing and certification pro- In Beverly Hills, Johnson said the elections that do not feature a the ballot. ing, washing our hands and wearing grams to ensure that businesses are chamber is advocating for some of presidential or gubernatorial When term limits were masks and doing all of those things informed about and complying with the temporary business-relief mea- race, the term limits item should approved for the Los Angeles that we know help us,” Horvath said. best practices for pandemic safety. sures, such as the OpenBH program be held until an election with City Council in 2006, previous Todd Johnson, president and Rana Ghadban, president and that lets businesses operate out- high levels of participation. terms did not count against the CEO of the Beverly Hills Chamber CEO of the Hollywood Chamber of doors, to be extended or even be Councilman John Mirisch maximum number of terms after of Commerce, said the business Commerce, said the Hollywood made permanent. pointed out that the Nov. 2 ballot limits were imposed. community is “excited” about the chamber has been working to not “The businesses we’ve lost will would not be for national office Mirisch also proposed that the opportunity to resume operations, only ensure more information and be replaced, and we want to get or governor, and he did not know city could simultaneously look at though he echoed the calls for vigi- data on decisions by government these businesses in these facilities, what else would be on the Nov. 2 districting for the City Council, lance against COVID-19. agencies – “[The lack of trans- operating with all the proper per- ballot, and neither did city staff as he believes a disproportionate “The majority of these restau- parency is] incredibly frustrating mits and the city wants this, too. members. number of council members rants are barely making it, they’re for these businesses, who are trying They want to make it as efficient as “How many people are going have come from parts of the city [hanging by] threads … It’s going their best to meet these regulations possible. I’m confident that we’ll to actually show up for an elec- north of Santa Monica to take years to dig out of debt,” from all levels of government,” she see much positive come out of this tion when nobody knows what’s Boulevard. Johnson said. “That said, this is the said – but also to educate their pandemic,” Johnson said. actually on the ballot this Mirisch’s request for geo- beginning of a movement in the members on what help is available Ultimately, however, businesses November?” Mirisch said. graphic representation did not right direction. We need to continue and what they can do to keep their will need customers, and Johnson Mayor Lester Friedman argued appear to gain much traction to stress the importance of social employees and customers safe. The said consumers need assurance that that a national or state election among the other council mem- distancing, wearing a mask, wash chamber has hosted virtual events, they will be able to safely shop and might draw attention away from bers, but they did express support your hands and when you can, get including webinars on the dine at local businesses again, the term limits item, preventing for more community members the vaccine.” Paycheck Protection Program and which might only come once the the public from truly understand- serving as city leaders. Genevieve Morrill, president and ppeunite.org, which provides free vaccine has been widely adminis- ing the issue and making an “We have the best of the best CEO of the West Hollywood personal protective equipment for tered. informed decision. residents that live in our city, true Chamber of Commerce, said many small businesses in Los Angeles “That will in turn help give more “I think [a national race] visionaries and out-of-the-box businesses have been hurt by the County. confidence to society to come out,” diminishes the issues that are thinkers, and I also agree that, at “open, close, open, close” nature of “It’s a great organization that has Johnson said. “I think it will be inter- before the city,” Friedman said. some point, we have to allow for the previous COVID-19 restric- helped us secure PPE supplies for esting to see, [once] restaurants are The council members also new ideas and new leadership, tions, and she agreed with the Los local businesses,” Ghadban said. open, will people come out and eat? made clear that, in the interest of and I think it’s also up to us to Angeles County Board of “We’ve partnered with them and I think they will because everyone fairness to future council mem- help mentor and encourage new Supervisors’ emphasis on harm hosted an event and distributed PPE has been stir crazy sitting at home, bers, they would like their blood and new leadership as reduction, instead of prohibiting all supplies for over 800 businesses in but a percentage of people won’t. already-served terms to count well,” Bosse said. gatherings, during the Jan. 26 meet- Hollywood. We’re looking to host That’s who we need to get to.” ing. Harm reduction acknowledges potentially another event with them Even though many challenges that if restrictions are too stringent, in February, but their website is a remain ahead, Johnson said he is people will continue to gather illic- great resource for businesses to sign confident that economic recovery is L.A. to celebrate regional response itly and, often, in less safe ways up for an event that’s happening on its way. than regulated outdoor dining and and help businesses with the free “I would hope and encourage gatherings, Morrill said. for struggling businesses PPE. It includes hand sanitizer, face everyone to make the decision on To celebrate over $100 million in COVID-19,” Mayor Eric Garcetti “What’s being understood now, shields and masks.” the following: the glass is either grants awarded to small businesses, said. finally, which we’ve been saying all Ghadban said the Hollywood half full or half empty. I opt to make microentrepreneurs, and nonprofits Many of the federal programs along, is that by closing the outdoor chamber is also advocating for it half full, as we do have better across Los Angeles County designed to address the crisis had dining, it has the opposite effect. It Assembly Bill 62, which would times coming,” Johnson said. “We through the L.A. Regional limitations which left Angelenos in has to do with social behavior. It provide tax credits for some pan- are resilient and we will get by this COVID-19 Recovery Fund, the need. Financial, technical and cul- pushes people who’ve been isolated demic-related expenses for individ- and learn a great deal from this.” county and city of Los Angeles are tural barriers have kept some of Los hosting a social media celebration Angeles’ most vulnerable small which began on Jan. 18, Martin businesses from accessing federal Luther King Jr. Day. programs such as the Paycheck ‘Queer Eye’ star donates ‘Millionaire’ winnings to HFC With millions in additional grant Protection Program and Economic On Jan., 17, Karamo Brown of spent struggling to feed his own Hollywood Food Coalition has funding on its way, the L.A. Injury Disaster Loan. The L.A. “Queer Eye” competed on “Who family. served Los Angeles’ most vulnera- Regional COVID-19 Recovery Regional COVID-19 Recovery Wants to Be a Millionaire,” hosted “I remember working 13 hours a ble residents by providing healthy Fund will convene a virtual forum Fund addressed these issues by pro- by Jimmy Kimmel, and answered day and still not having enough and delicious meals along with on Jan. 29 for those interested in viding additional support to under- 11 questions on the hot seat, earn- money to cover all my bills and put access to basic daily needs, such as receiving assistance to learn about served communities throughout ing $125,000. food on the table for me and my clothing, backpacks, sleeping bags upcoming opportunities. To regis- Los Angeles. This season of “Who Wants to two sons. Those moments were the and hygiene items, as well as assis- ter, visit bit.ly/lacovidfundregister. The fund included a technical Be a Millionaire” features celebri- moments where I depended on the tance and referrals for housing and This unique partnership between assistance program to coordinate ties who exclusively donate their kindness of others. It was organiza- unemployment. the county and city of Los Angeles, among local nonprofits and support winnings to the charities of their tions like Hollywood Food The Coalition’s nightly as well its philanthropic partners, applicants throughout the applica- choice. Brown chose to play for Coalition that got me through those Community Dinner program pro- has benefited more than 7,000 tion and funding process. This pro- the Hollywood Food Coalition, a moments. I was helped in my time vides over 150 people with their Angelenos across the region. Grant gram was one of many ways the nonprofit that has served hundreds of need, and now it is time to pay it most pressing needs each night, a awardees of the fund received fund addressed the gap left by fed- of meals to the hungry in forward,” Brown said. nourishing meal and, once a between $5,000 and $100,000 in eral programs and ensured those Hollywood every night for the past The mission of the Hollywood week, the UCLA Mobile Clinic needs-based relief. most vulnerable and in need had 34 years. Food Coalition is to feed and serve visits the Community Dinner to “Small businesses are the beat- equitable access to apply for the Brown regularly serves as a vol- the immediate needs of the hungry provide medical treatment and ing heart of our economy, and this funding available. unteer preparing meals at HFC, every night of the year so they can assistance. fund has served as a lifeline as they For information, visit and hasn’t forgotten the time he build better lives. Since 1987, the For information, visit hofoco.org. navigate the uncertain waters of the bit.ly/RecoveryGrantToolkit. 22 January 28, 2021 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Olympia closure draws community scrutiny From page 1 Although Olympia is a 204-bed that were required on Dec. 30 and close the hospital.” medical center, the hospital does Dec. 31, and that 90-day period is Lemmon said the decision to not offer many specialties including March 31,” Sarrao said. “UCLA close Olympia Medical Center was pediatrics, trauma care, heart care Health has bought the real estate, made with a lack of transparency, and treatment for sexual assault vic- they will be submitting plans to the and employees only learned about tims, and thus does not experience state. The contemplation is that we it when they arrived for work on the number of patients served at would suspend our license and Dec. 31 and saw a posted notice. larger hospitals such as Cedars- UCLA Health [will be] submitting Approximately 450 employees are Sinai and UCLA Ronald Reagan those plans.” now trying to determine what the Medical Center, Sarrao said. The Los Angeles County future will hold for them, Lemmon “We made a decision to suspend Emergency Medical Services added. photo courtesy of Los Angeles County Emergency Medical Services Commission the services as of March 31 as part Agency, which was represented in Others also cited a lack of trans- Shenita Anderson, who works in the emergency room at Olympia of our transaction with UCLA the hearing by Assistant Director parency, including nurse Shenita Medical Center, is opposed to the hospital’s closure. Health. We provided the notices Ricard Tadeo, prepared a report on Anderson, who works in the emer- the hospital’s closure that indicates gency room at Olympia Medical it will have a negative effect on the Center. surrounding communities including “You can imagine how shocked, Dog park to be first on east side of WeHo the Miracle Mile, Mid-City, angered and appalled I was when I From page 1 Larchmont and Fairfax communi- saw the notice that Alecto was vol- ties, as well as the cities of Beverly untarily seeking to close down the Hollywood and the limited Hills and West Hollywood. The hospital in the middle of a pandem- amount of open space, dog parks report stated that Olympia Medical ic. It’s literally killing thousands of are an important public benefit for Center served 25,134 patients in people in Los Angeles … and also community members and their 2019, or an average of 69 patients is devastating, disproportionately, companion animals,” the staff per day, which corresponded with the lives of Black and brown peo- report reads. “Companion ani- Sarrao’s assessment. However, the ple. I believe that closing Olympia mals provide not only compan- closure of the hospital will place a Medical could lead to an increase in ionship, but emotional support greater burden on surrounding unnecessary death.” which leads to reduced stress lev- medical centers including Cedars- Members of the community also els and positive emotional devel- Sinai, according to the report. It will voiced opposition, including Conrad opment. There is evidence that also result in longer travel times Starr, secretary of the Greater suggests that attachment to ani- and possible delays in receiving Wilshire Neighborhood Council and mals is good for human health and emergency medical services, and president of the Sycamore Square even helps build community.” will leave a gap in the ability to pro- Neighborhood Association. Since 2017, the city has been vide medical services in case of a “Certainly, we have lots of con- working to re-envision the park disaster. cerns. I have been a patient in the through a series of community Cathy Chichester, director of the emergency room at Olympia workshops and facilitated discus- photo by Cameron Kiszla county’s Emergency Medical Medical Center and I have taken sions. West Hollywood will pilot an off-leash dog area within Plummer Park Services Agency, said the agency is neighbors there,” added Starr, who “Throughout these outreach in the coming months. opposed to the closure and referred stressed he was speaking as a pri- efforts, community members to a letter sent to Olympia Medical vate citizen because the neighbor- showed a strong interest in the see what worked as the city until the permanent changes to the Center’s owners on Jan. 11 outlin- hood organizations had yet to for- inclusion of a dog park,” the staff moves forward in establishing a park are underway. ing her concerns. mally consider the closure. “One report reads. “The existing dog permanent off-leash dog play area Councilman John Erickson, the “The county is in the middle of a thing I did want to bring up … is parks are extremely popular at Plummer Park. only member of the City Council crisis due to the effects of COVID- emergency preparedness. One of among residents and visitors, and According to the staff report, who lives on the east side of the 19, which has led to extensive wait the things we are concerned about provide an important benefit for discussions regarding the redevel- city, said he was particularly grat- times for ambulances to offload is 50,000 predicted [to be] injured community members to exercise opment of Plummer Park have ified about moving forward on patients in local emergency depart- after the Big One. We need to be and socialize with their compan- been less of a priority for the city plans to create an off-leash area in ments, delays in patient care due to preparing capacity, not reducing ion animals in green, open space.” while construction continues at Plummer Park. a shortage of locations to place sick capacity, right now.” Possible locations for the the West Hollywood Aquatic and “Our continued improvements individuals and the potential imple- Members of the commission also Plummer Park pilot include an Recreation Center. However, the and access to Plummer Park, mentation of crisis care due to inad- expressed reservations and many area near the tennis courts along community engagement process which is both historic and such a equate hospital resources,” said further analysis of impacts is Vista Street or directly south of is expected to resume later this community park, will be a great Chichester’s letter read. “The vol- needed. Comments provided at the the community center adjacent to year. Once it does, the report esti- benefit for the community over untary closure of Olympia Medical hearing will be included in an impact Santa Monica Boulevard. mated that it could take up to a here where we have many dog Center during this crisis is irrespon- evaluation report by the Los Angeles Construction costs are estimated year before construction to rede- owners and people not wanting sible and will cause future hardship County Emergency Medical to range from $100,000 to velop the park begins. to go across town to go to [a] dog on the health care system.” Services Agency that will be pre- $250,000 depending on the site The pilot off-leash area is antic- park,” he said. “It’s perfect and Others also expressed concern, sented to the Los Angeles County selected, plus an estimated ipated to open while the design it’s a great opportunity to provide including Doug Zabilski, a battal- Board of Supervisors sometime after $50,000 to $200,000 if an envi- and planning stages for the per- this resource to our residents ion chief in the Los Angeles Fire March 1, as well as the California ronmental analysis is necessary. manent changes to the park are over here who live east of Department’s Emergency Services Department of Public Health. Ongoing maintenance and service underway. Due to it being a tem- Fairfax.” Bureau. Tadeo said it remains unclear for the dog park is estimated at porary addition to the park, the Erickson added that he knew “In 2020, we transported 4,412 what impact the hearing will have $4,000 per month. staff report stated that materials his dog Winnie would be “very patients to Olympia. Our overall or what public officials will be able Meister emphasized that the and features were likely to be happy” to play in the forthcoming transports are down in 2020, largely to do to prevent the closure, as it pilot would be an opportunity to minimal, albeit durable and safe, dog park. due to [people’s fears] of catching resulted from a private real estate COVID in the hospital. In 2019, sale. that number was 5,067,” Zabilski “They can’t overturn it,” Tadeo said. “That’s an awful lot for sur- said. “We’ll compile a report and Academy to honor Tyler Perry, charitable fund rounding hospitals to have to send it to the board and the The Academy of Motion Pictures people who are most often ignored. need, including case management, absorb. Every time we lose a 911 California Department of Public Arts and Sciences announced on The work of the MPTF is more financial assistance for basic living receiving facility, you have an obvi- Health, but they don’t have the Jan. 14 that its Board of Governors vital than ever, and the organization expenses, palliative care, and senior ous collateral impact on surround- legal authority to overturn a clo- voted to present Jean Hersholt has gone above and beyond to help and childcare services. The organi- ing receiving hospitals, which sure. This is really just about pro- Humanitarian Awards to filmmaker our community. The sheer number zation’s contribution during the means longer transport times.” viding public notice.” Tyler Perry and to the Motion of individuals and families – from pandemic has made a significant Jennifer Lemmon, Southern After March 1, the report will be Picture & Television Fund. The every corner of our industry’s impact on the entertainment com- California director of the available for public review by visit- Oscar statuettes will be presented at workforce – aided during the pan- munity, providing social services California Nurses Association, ing dhs.lacounty.gov/emergency- the 93rd Oscars, which airs live on demic and over the last 100 years is support to nearly 9,000 industry denounced the closure and said it medical-services-agency. ABC and broadcast outlets world- nothing short of extraordinary.” members in 2020. Jean Hersholt, will have an adverse impact on wide on Sunday, April 25. Perry is a prolific producer, direc- for whom the Academy’s humani- public health. “There has been such widespread tor, actor, writer, entrepreneur and tarian award is named, served as “We are absolutely incensed that Answers From Page 23 generosity in our industry that lim- philanthropist, whose commitment president of the fund for 18 years, Alecto Healthcare Services has pro- iting the Hersholt Humanitarian to a wide spectrum of charitable from 1938 until his death in 1956. posed closing Olympia Medical Award to one recipient, this year in and social justice causes has been The Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Center in the middle of a pandemic particular, was impossible. So, we particularly impactful during the Award is an Oscar statuette. This is that has left health care workers are breaking with tradition and giv- challenges of the past year, address- the first time an organization will be scrambling to address the ongoing ing two awards to honor that spirit,” ing economic distress caused by the recognized with this award. need for medical care,” Lemmon Academy President David Rubin pandemic, racial reckoning and The awards will be presented said. “Olympic Medical Center has said. “Tyler’s cultural influence homelessness in his community. during the Oscars in lieu of the a long history of providing care for extends far beyond his work as a Now in its 100th year, the MPTF Academy’s Governors Awards, an some of the most vulnerable in Los filmmaker. He has quietly and offers a variety of services to pro- annual ceremony in the fall, where Angeles and has done so for the last steadily focused on humanitarian vide emotional and financial relief the Jean Hersholt Humanitarian 74 years. Our members and other and social justice causes from the to entertainment industry members Award is customarily presented. health care workers were shocked beginning of his career, caring for and their families during times of For information, visit oscars.org. to learn about Alecto’s intention to Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 23 January 28, 2021 Classified Advertising email:[email protected] BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY COMPUTER HARDWARE INCOME TAX UPHOLSTERY WEBSITE DESIGN ALL YEAR ALAKAZAM TThehe INCOME TAX UPHOLSTERY & DRAPERY

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