WWW.BEVERLYPRESS.COM INSIDE • Vine Street project reviewed. pg. 3 Clear and • Wilshire Forum warm, with assesses areaʼs temps around future. pg. 4 72º Volume 20 No. 30 Serving the West Hollywood, Hancock Park and Wilshire Communities July 29, 2010 Trutanich Takes Direct Has Life Improved for the Disabled? n 20 Years Since the Approach as City Atty. Signing of the ADA, Access, Services n Plans for Second Year Include Still Needed Aggressive Prosecution BY IAN LOVETT BY EDWIN FOLVEN against illegal billboards. He said he received a lot of criticism earlier os Angeles City Attorney this year when he secured an arrest hen the phone rang in Carmen Trutanich has made warrant and a $1 million bail for Michael Arrigo’s a name for himself during businessman Kayvan Seterah, the Whouse, a talking caller L ID read out the phone number. his first year in office through an owner of a building at Hollywood outspoken, no-nonsense approach, Boulevard and Highland Avenue, “It’s Dennis,” Arrigo said. “Tell and said it sometimes takes “step- who allowed an illegal supergraph- him I’ll call him back.” ping on toes” to get things done. ic to be placed on its façade. “People call here, because they Part of the approach includes Trutanich asked for the high bail know I’ll help them find services, continuing his aggressive position and I’m not afraid to give out my See City Attorney page 22 phone number.” In the summer of 1978, right after Arrigo graduated from high school, he lost his eyesight. He suffered from a rare condition called Leber’s hereditary optic neuropathy, a condition which causes the optic nerve to deterio- rate. Arrigo lost most of his cen- tral vision. Suddenly, he couldn’t photo by Ian Lovett drive, couldn’t read small print, Michael Arrigo said many improvements have come about since the and couldn’t see over long dis- ADA became law, but added that more work needs to be done. tances. “It’s the opposite of tunnel “The ADA is probably the most Radio production, and then vision,” Arrigo said. “I had to important piece of legislation per- worked for a radio station, and learn how to navigate and live like taining to people with disabilities then for the Arsenio Hall Show. a blind person.” that’s ever been written,” Arrigo In the mid-‘90s, however, after This week marked the 20th said. “It’s hard to believe it’s only Arrigo’s eyesight deteriorated fur- anniversary of the signing of the been 20 years since it was ther, he began to concentrate on Americans with Disabilities Act signed.” advocacy work. In 1999, he began (ADA), which guarantees protec- Now 52 years old, Arrigo has serving on the City of West tions against discrimination for lived in West Hollywood for most Hollywood’s Disability Advisory photo by Edwin Folven people with disabilities, and of his adult life. He received a Board, and in 2007 received the City Attorney Carmen Trutanich said he will continue to aggressively pur- access to public buildings and degree from California State Board’s individual award. sue people who violate the law in Los Angeles. transportation. University, Northridge in TV and See ADA page 20 Survey Seeks Out City’s Historic Gems 99 Cents Shoppers n Neighborhood Canvassing Begins Are Penny Wise in Hollywood BY IAN LOVETT BY TIM POSADA or many people, pennies have become a nuisance. rchitecture specialists are FVending machines and preparing to categorize the parking meters will not accept Ahistorical significance of them, and in the last decade, two structures in Los Angeles in the bills were introduced in the largest building survey to date. United States House of With a substantial grant from the Representatives to do away with Getty Foundation’s J. Paul Getty the nation’s smallest currency. Trust, the city will be analyzing all For the 99 Cents Only Store, buildings in the city, residential and however, a penny could cost a business, to determine historic sta- pretty penny. tus over the next three years. For 26 years, the 99 Cents “The purpose of the survey is not Only Store never charged more to designate areas, but to use the than 99 cents for any product. survey as a planning tool to give But in the summer of 2008, the photo by Ian Lovett policy makers, planners and devel- City of Commerce-based chain A sign posted at the 99 Cents opers upfront and objective infor- raised its prices by almost a Only store on Wilshire mation on potential historic photo by Tim Posada penny to 99.99 cents, which cash Boulevard clearly states that the resources in every community,” The Hollywood Independent Church is an example of structures in Los registers round up to $1. prices have increased by a said Ken Bernstein, manager of the Angeles that could be considered as historical resources under See Stores page 21 penny. See Survey page 21 SurveyLA. (&&43(("&2"  (&&43(("  #)2%!#  )10 333 $(&&43(("1(4(1 !(' 2 July 29, 2010 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

29 Another All- $17 and groups are $15. For informa- Calendar tion, call (818)700-4878 or visit Beethoven Night www.thegrouprep.com. f you missed French pianist David IFray at the Hollywood Bowl on p.m. Spiritual and meditative works Tuesday, try again tonight as the 28- by Michel Pascal will be on display National Dance Day year-old prodigy performs his final all- inside and outside the gallery, and a usic Center at the Performance Beethoven set at the Bowl. Fray is meditation hour will be held during MArts Center of Los Angeles joined by the Los Angeles the event, followed by a film viewing. County will spend Saturday dancing Philharmonic with conductor Pablo Admission is free. Basement 35 in the streets, celebrating National Heras-Casado. The concert begins at 8 Gallery is located in the basement of Dance Day, from 10 a.m. to noon, in p.m. For information, visit www.hol- Building 35 in the Park La Brea the Biggest Dance Ever Festival. The lywoodbowl.com. Apartment Complex at 351 S. Fuller Music Center Plaza will be shut down Ave. For information, call (323)549- for traffic, as the street is turned into a 5498. free dance extravaganza open to the Griffith Hosts ‘A public. National Dance Day, a grass- Village Lost’ 31 Parlor Hollywood roots movement to promote better strophysicist Dr. Brian May, gui- health, will be recognized with an Atarist and songwriter of Queen, Hosts Flip Cup official act of Congress. Created by and Elena Vidal, photographic histori- he Parlor Hollywood will host a Nigel Lythgoe, executive producer an and conservator, will present a 3D Tcharity flip cup tournament with and co-creator of “So You Think You presentation on their recent book pro- top local companies to benefit the MS Can Dance”, the event will officially ject, “A Village Lost and Found”, at Society on Saturday, July 31 at 2 be introduced by Congresswoman the Griffith Observatory. A product of p.m. The Parlor Hollywood is located Eleanor Holmes Norton at a press over 30 years of research, the book at 7250 Melrose Ave. and admission is conference on Saturday in presents a set of stereo photographs $5 donation at the door. Teams in Washington, D.C. For information, showing the life of an Oxfordshire vil- attendance include Parlor Hollywood, visit www.musiccenter.org. lage 150 years ago. The reproduced photo courtesy of Rob Bailey Communications, Inc. Kid D, 944 Magazine, Drai’s photographs by stereographer, T.R. Do a Jig with the Wiggles Hollywood, Creative Recreation, 1 WeHo Jazz Fest Williams, reveal a rural idyll fast dis- The Fab Four from down under are back with their family event, “The William Rast, The Parlor Santa lezmer Juice will represent a appearing. The co-authors also will Wiggle Circus Live!” Join Captain Feathersword, Dorothy the Dinosaur, Monica, Kitson, 901 Tequila, Revolve Knew generation of Jewish soul discuss Williams’ work and the chal- Henry the Octopus, Wags the Dog and all the Wiggly Dancers as they Clothing and Cohesive Apparel. For musicians on Sunday, August 1 as part lenging process of presenting the bring the excitement of the big top with a wiggly twist to Los Angeles. The information, call (323)930-2100 or of the ongoing 2010 Summer Sounds images in 3D. The Griffith “Wiggly Circus Live!” tour will feature their interactive and educational visit www.theparlorsm.com . Series in West Hollywood, featuring Observatory is located at 2800 East message with audience participation, including wiggly pals singing and jazz, fusion and world music. Playing Observatory Rd. The first presentation dancing through the audience and yelling, “Wake up, Jeff!” whenever the Group Rep at 3 p.m. at Kings Road Park, located will take place at 6:30 p.m. and 7:40 Purple Wiggle falls asleep onstage. The wiggling commences at Gibson Premieres ‘Walk in at 1000 N. Kings Rd., Klezmer Juice p.m. on Thursday, July 29 and admis- Amphitheatre, located at 100 Universal City Plz., on Sunday, August 1, will provide fresh interpretations of sion is $7; the second presentation will with shows at 1:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets range from $20 to $90 and the Woods’ traditional tunes. Chairs will be avail- take place at 8:30pm and 9:40pm and can be purchased at the venue or from Ticketmaster. For information, he Group Rep will present Lee able for the free concert and guests are admission is $5. For information, visit visit www.wiggletime.com. TBlessing’s “A Walk in the encouraged to bring a blanket to www.griffithobs.org. Woods”, directed by Richard Alan lounge on the lawn during the concert. Woody, running from July 31 to For information, call (323)848-6496 30 Park La Brea Variations” by David Mamet, and several of his hits and selections from September 4, on Fridays at 8 p.m. and or visit www.weho.org/arts. Players have “The Opening” by Mathew Kelty. his latest album, “Bom Tempo” Saturday matinees at 4 p.m., featuring “Choices” will run at the PLB (“good time” in Portuguese), while Larry Eisenberg and Fox Carney in Gospel Brunch at ‘Choices’ Activities Center Theater, located at Morcheeba brings audiences its blend the story of an impossible friendship he Park La Brea Players, an acting 475 S. Curson Ave., at 7 p.m., and the of trip hop, rock, rhythm and blues — one that grows between an earnest Hope Ttroupe comprised of Park La Brea performance is free to the public. For and pop. For information, visit young American nuclear arms nego- he New City Parish Choir will be residents, will premiere its new sum- information, call (323)936-7194. www.hollywoodbowl.com. tiator and his more cynical Soviet Thighlighted at Hope Lutheran mer performance, “Choices”, on counterpart, during their private walks Church this Sunday, August 1 as the Friday, July 30 at 2 p.m. The produc- Brazilian Pop at the Park La Brea Art in the hills above Geneva, featured singers at Hope’s 15th tion features four one-act plays: “Mr. Switzerland. It is also the story of two Annual Gospel Concert and Brunch. Lewis and Mrs. Wexel” by Renee Bowl Gets Spiritual nations attempting to avert a nuclear Following the 10:30 a.m. church ser- Taylor & Joseph Bologna, “Second razilian pop maestro, Sergio asement 35 Gallery will host the holocaust in spite of the political and vice, a free celebration brunch will be Chance” by Elyse Nass, “The Duck BMendes, will perform at the BPark La Brea Art Center’s economic forces that seem to be push- held in the courtyard at Hope, catered Hollywood Bowl for two nights, Annual Summer Art Exhibit with an ing them relentlessly toward it. “A by El Coyote Café. Hope Lutheran Friday and Saturday, July 30 and 31, opening reception on Friday, July 30 Walk in the Woods” will run at the Church is located at 6720 Melrose at 8:30 p.m. Opening for and comple- from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., and gallery Lonny Chapman Theatre, located at Ave. For information, call (323)938- menting Mendes’ sound is newly hours on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 10900 Burbank Blvd. General admis- 9135. reunited Morcheeba. Mendes will sing p.m. and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 sion is $22, seniors and students are  

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#/, (71 ()7,( ,<8 (4+ ,;,72= 7,88          <,,12= 4,<86(6,78 6:)208/,+ 54 #/:78+(=8 (02 8:)8*7069054 08 >!  (44:(22= ,*7,,+ 4,<86(6,78 5- .,4,7(2 *07*:2(9054 ,49092,+ 95 %&'&( *+ 6:)208/ 2,.(2 (+;,790804. ,) ! !  )= ":6,70575:79 7+,75  )))  & ( "$ Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 3 July 29, 2010 Volunteers Brighten Outlook Change Brewing for Vine Street Burger Stand n City Council Considers at Covenant House a Proposal for an Office Tower at the Site BY EDWIN FOLVEN

hile the W Hotel and WResidences have transformed the northeast corner of Vine Street and Selma Avenue, a controversy is brewing across the street over plans to build an office tower at the north- west corner of the intersection. Part of the controversy surrounds the future of Molly’s Burgers, which may be relocated as part of the new project. The Los Angeles City Council has postponed making a decision until next Tuesday on the project, which would include an eight-story office tower and retail space. Known as “1601 Vine Street”, the development would replace a surface parking lot and Molly’s Burgers, and is designed to revitalize one of the last remaining sections of Vine Street in the area that has not yet been developed. Few people involved with the project would comment or provide information, including officials from the Community photo by Ian Lovett Redevelopment Agency of the City n Tuesday, a group of volunteers gathered to help give the of Los Angeles (CRA-LA), which OCovenant House’s California Crisis Shelter a very special Lady owns the land and is proposing a Gaga makeover. sale to Pacifica Ventures, a Santa No, they didn’t deck the walls with fake blood, or weave a silver Monica-based development com- lobster into anyone’s hair. Instead they repainted the walls of the pany. What is certain is the project Hollywood youth homeless shelter, and in so doing earned themselves is supported by Los Angeles City tickets to next week’s sold out Lady Gaga concert, courtesy of the Council President Eric Garcetti, artist and Virgin Mobile’s Project RE*Generation. 13th District, who believes it is one Karla Gibbs (left) came with daughter, Gabriela Cardona, who of the next steps in the overall revi- found out about the event from Lady Gaga’s Facebook page. talization of Hollywood, according “I think Lady Gaga is doing something amazing,” Gibbs said. “It’s to his deputy, Yusef Robb. not a raffle, that’s what I love about it. She’s not just donating money, The new building would include but she’s setting up a situation where people come learn about the approximately 112,000 square feet issue of homeless youth and also get tickets.” of office space, and approximately photo by Edwin Folven Gibbs also admitted she was a fan of Lady Gaga’s music, though 2,000 square feet of ground floor The future of Mollyʼs, a hamburger stand at the corner of Vine Street and not as big a fan as her daughter. The pair will go to the concert togeth- retail space. It would also be a Selma Avenue, is at the center of a proposal to build an office tower at er, which happens to fall on Cardona’s 19th birthday. LEED certified environmentally- the location. “I was really excited to be able to participate,” Cardona said. “This friendly structure and would is something that we would do anyway, volunteering. And to get free include 194 parking spaces in a Nemick, a spokesperson for the stand is historically significant Lady Gaga tickets as well is amazing.” subterranean garage. CRA-LA, said there would be no because it is an example of early Eduardo Xol, star of the TV show “Extreme Makeover: Home According to a report to the city comment about the project until the roadside diners. The attorney, Edition”, also joined the volunteers in painting the shelter. council by the CRA-LA, Pacifica city council makes a decision. Robert Silverstein, also did not Since opening in 1988, Covenant House California has opened its Ventures would purchase the land The CRA-LA plans to relocate return a call for comment. doors to more than 145,000 youth ages 18 to 24 who have suffered for the below-market price of Molly’s Burgers. Owner Kiok Yi The hamburger stand was origi- trauma or are trying to survive on the streets. In Los Angeles, an esti- $825,000 in exchange for leasing also declined to comment on the nally called “Mom’s” and was part mated 15,000 young people experience homelessness each year. 60 percent of the building to entities project, but has retained an attorney of a former gas station that was For more information, visit www.covdove.org. in the entertainment industry. Mary who has claimed the hamburger See Burger Stand page 22 Letters to the Editor deners, that they will “be allowed The Hollywood Chamber could streets. one capable elected office holder City Should Buy Land to stay a maximum of three years.” oversee and approve the choices. I am sorry our mayor had to be who really cares about our citi- for Community Garden Isn’t it interesting that our City Only movies that were released injured before our leaders took zens. Feuer is a rare gem. As we Council would support term limits over 10 years ago could be placed action to resolve a need that has voters clean house during the egarding the article titled for gardeners but not for itself? on the doors, and no one studio deterred many of us from riding upcoming elections, Assembly R“City Plots New Course for would get more exposure than our bikes in Los Angeles. My bike Member Mike Feuer is one incum- Gardens “ in the July 22 issue, the Matheu Brooks another. The studios could pay for has been sitting in my garage for bent we want to keep in office, or best solution is for the city to buy West Hollywood the process. Except for graffiti, well over 20 years, after several promote to higher office. this little strip of land. Sure you there should be no problem. near collisions with automobiles. could build something on it, let’s Being an Eisenhower baby, I It’s just too dangerous! George Epstein just cover every square inch of Hollywood Murals recognized the photo of Edgar It seems to me that requiring a Detroit Street available space. After all, it’s more Should be Brought Into Bergen and Charlie McCarthy on bicycle to travel with the automo- tax revenue for the city, but less page 20 of the July 15 issue. Many bile traffic makes the bicyclist vul- green space, less peace and quiet, 21st Century of our tourists have no clue who nerable to drivers coming up from less community involvement. they were. Heck a lot wouldn’t behind. Driving in the opposite Have an Opinion? n regards to the article titled recognize his daughter (Candice direction (as is the custom back Brad Keistler Sound Off! I“Fine Art Murals Stuck in Legal Bergen). East) would give the bicyclist the West Hollywood Grey Area” in the July 15 issue, opportunity to turn away from an The Park Labrea News while the city is re-examining David Reid oncoming automobile, and would and Beverly Press encour- City Council Needs to murals on the streets of Vista Street give the cyclist some control over Hollywood, perhaps a look to the the situation. ages our readers to submit Consider Term Limits 21st Century is also in order. Too bad our sidewalks weren’t Letters to the Editor via e- for Themselves The technology to wrap a bus in New Bike Safety Laws built wider to accommodate both mail at: an ad exists, so why not allow stu- Need to be Addressed pedestrians and bicyclists. Last [email protected]. dios to put old movie posters on week, while walking to my car on Letters must be signed by the read with interest the article the doors of the businesses in Fairfax Avenue, I was nearly hit author. Readers may also Ititled “City Plots New Course Hollywood with those metal roll egarding the article titled from the rear by a speeding bicy- submit comments for publi- for Gardens” in the July 22 issue, down gates? And instead of glori- R“Mayor’s Mishap Renews cle coming up behind me on the cation as letters to editor via and am pleased that a new garden fying individuals, why not put Calls for Better Bike Laws” in the sidewalk. postings on the website at: will be available to the residents of movies such as “Stars Wars”, July 22 issue, thanks for the inter- In addition, thanks for the fea- www.beverlypress.com, or West Hollywood. Of particular “Wizard of Oz”, “Gone With The esting report on plans to improve ture “Feuer Works on Bills For a www.parklabreanews.com. significance is a new rule for gar- Wind” and “Indiana Jones”. bike safety on our roads and Brighter Future”. At least we have 4 July 29, 2010 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Forum Focuses on the Future of Miracle Mile State Named Finalist in Race n Experts See Promise, to the Top Federal Funding Particularly with Subway alifornia has been selected as to transform the state’s education and Better Economy Ca finalist in the competition to system and strengthen receive up to $700 million for California’s ability to prepare all BY EDWIN FOLVEN education reform as part of Phase students for success in college 2 of the federal Race to the Top and careers. ozens of community leaders (RTTT) competition. The plans seeks to reform edu- Dand government officials gath- “I am thrilled that our efforts to cation by refining state standards ered at the El Rey Theatre on July push for even more progress in and adopting internationally 22 for the Wilshire Corridor Forum improving public education were benchmarked common core stan- V, the latest installment in a series recognized by the U.S. dards and aligned assessments designed to identify ways to Department of Education,” State that better prepare students for improve the local area. Superintendent of Public success in college and the work- The forum was hosted by the Instruction Jack O’Connell said. place. It would also seek to Miracle Mile Chamber of “California remains in the run- recruit, develop, and retain effec- Commerce, and featured a report ning for the Race to the Top com- tive teachers and principals, and by Los Angeles Department of petition. We now will prepare to ensure that they are helping stu- Water and Power general manager present our reform plan before dents that need them the most. In and deputy mayor Austin Beutner, photo by Edwin Folven reviewers in Washington. I addition, the state is planning to as well as discussion by City The forum included a panel comprised of Kimberly Ritter (left), associate remain optimistic that California expand its education data system Councilmembers Tom LaBonge, economist for the L.A. Economic Development Corporation; Dave will be granted funding that will to better measure student success 4th District, and Paul Koretz, 5th Powers, of the development company BRE; Melody Kanschat, president help us ensure that we have effec- and improve the state’s persistent- District. The forum also included of LACMA; Mindy Lake, a consultant for the 3rd Street Business tive teachers in every classroom, ly lowest-performing schools. panel discussions on the current Association; and Clare DeBriere, COO of the Ratkovich Group. strong leaders in every school, With funding from the federal economic situation in the Wilshire common core standards to government, the state plans to area. improve instruction, and an effec- launch new partnerships with Beutner said the success of small tax holiday for all businesses in Los a difference,” Beutner said. tive data system to ensure that institutions of higher education, businesses in the area will be key to Angeles, and new businesses will “Whether it’s working with city every student is being prepared and expand support systems, and the economic growth of the entire not have to pay taxes for three departments to help provide better for success in college or careers.” infrastructure. city, and said officials are working years,” Beutner added. “Hopefully services, outreach to businesses, or California’s Phase 2 RTTT Finalists of the Phase 2 grants on several approaches to make it that will help make businesses working on policy change, the application was built on the com- will present their plans before a easier to conduct business in Los more successful in Los Angeles.” foundation exists, and we have a mitment and leadership of seven review panel in Washington, D.C. Angeles. He said in his role as head Other ways the city is trying to different attitude.” school districts throughout the on August 9, with recipients of the DWP, he will be working on improve the business environment Koretz said he has been focused state, including the Los Angeles expected to be announced in initiatives to provide energy at a include creating and expanding on budget issues recently, and find- Unified School District September. For information, visit lower cost for businesses, while enterprise zones and community ing ways to cut the city’s deficit (LAUSD). The plan is designed www.caracetothetop.org. continuing to move towards using redevelopment zones, which are while preventing layoffs and main- more sustainable resources. He taining services. He said one of the added that he is attempting to move “There is a lot of issues he is currently working on is towards creating more transparen- identifying funding for street main- Metro seeks Public Input on cy in the utility, and said he money to be tenance, including medians believed a dispute last spring over throughout the district. whether the DWP would turn over saved by “There was no money in the bud- Changes to Bus Lines $73.5 million to the City of Los addressing get for the maintenance of median etro will hold a series of pub- Center, 325 S. La Cienega Blvd. Angeles was mishandled. islands, so if you see weeds on the lic hearings to gather public Some of the proposed changes in “I don’t think that went down inefficiencies and M islands on Burton Way or San input on proposed bus service the Westside/Central area include very well,” Beutner said. the way we pay Vicente or Highland Avenue, it is changes to be considered for imple- improvements to services on lines “Regardless of whether there was partly because of budget cuts we mentation in December. 714, which runs from downtown reconciliation or not, there was a lot our bills.” are trying to adjust for,” Koretz The public hearings are being Los Angeles to Beverly Hills via of energy wasted. One thing we do said. “There is a lot of money to be held in accordance with federal Beverly Boulevard; Line 220, in working with a department is try -City Councilmember saved by addressing inefficiencies public hearing requirements and which runs from Beverly Center to to get them to deliver services in a Paul Koretz, 5th District and the way we pay our bills.” guidelines adopted by the Metro Culver City via Robertson modern way. We are trying to Koretz said he is looking into a Board of Directors. Members of the Boulevard; Line 720, which oper- change over policies and proce- plan where the city would pay its public are encouraged to attend the ates between Santa Monica and the dures that lead to these problems.” geographical areas created by the bills on time, but not right when the upcoming hearings and provide tes- City of Commerce via Wilshire and Beutner also said communica- state of California or the city or bill is received. The amount of timony on any service change pro- Whittier Boulevards; and Line 920, tion is a significant component of county of Los Angeles where spe- interest that is generated on the posal. Public comments will not be a Rapid Express bus operating on boosting the city’s economy, and cial tax breaks and other incentives city’s money during the 20 to 25 restricted to just the bus routes Wilshire Boulevard. added that his staff is required to are offered to stimulate business. day period between when the city operating in one geographical area. All public comment received will make five cold calls a day to busi- Beutner said he was successful in receives a bill and when it pays the The hearing for the local area will be forwarded to local service coun- ness owners to try to identify ways expanding state enterprise zones in bill could be significant, he said. be held on Wednesday, August 11 at cils to be considered prior to the the city can make it easier for spe- the San Fernando Valley and near See Forum page 20 5 p.m. at the La Cienega Tennis Metro Board taking action. cific entities. He also touted suc- Los Angeles International Airport, cess in lowering taxes for small and is working with the governor businesses, and said efforts are and Los Angeles County officials, underway to reform the city’s busi- to expand other enterprise zones ness tax code. and create new ones. 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6 July 29, 2010 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press DWP Moves Comic Books Offer New Twist on Shakespeare Classics n Alternatives to Comics lead the graphic stories Forward market, leaving smaller publishers Superheroes to find more obscure titles like With Wind Gain in Popularity “Kill Shakespeare”. Ryan Liebowitz, manager of Golden BY TIM POSADA Apple Comics, located at 7018 Power Plan Melrose Ave., takes a chance with he Los Angeles Department an Diego Comic-Con every title he chooses to sell, hop- Tof Water and Power (DWP) SInternational drew approxi- ing there is enough interest from Board of Commissioners mately 125,000 comic book and customers to try something new. approved a long-term agree- pop culture enthusiastes to the San “Sometimes you get a lone wolf ment on July 22 to receive more Diego Convention Center for its – an unlikely hero – that sells and than 100 megawatts of new yearly event. The Con may have we double numbers on future wind energy from the Milford ended on Sunday, but writers, sales,” Liebowitz said. Wind Farm Phase II. Connor McCreery and Anthony At Golden Apple Comics, issues The project is consistent with Del Col, are not through with No. 1 and No. 2 of “Kill the DWP’s long-term strategy Southern California just yet, as they Shakespeare” are sold out, but sales and marks a shift in the utility’s try to find out if their comic book for Issue No. 3 have decreased. renewable energy program, series, “Kill Shakespeare”, has Liebowitz is unsure why sales which seeks to utilize existing what it takes to move beyond the dropped but predicts that demand resources, transmission and illustrated page. cannot increase unless the publish- generation plants, and focus on “We know not everyone reads er, IDW Publishing (publisher for more cost effective investments. comics,” McCreery said. “One of “30 Days of Night”, “Angel” and Under the strategy, the DWP the reasons we’re in Hollywood is “G.I. Joe”), reprints the first two will continue to pursue new to find out if there is a film or a issues, allowing new readers to par- renewable energy investments video game in this.” ticipate. Regardless, he believes to shift from carbon resources, Issue No. 1 of “Kill “Kill Shakespeare” is off to a good while balancing the overall Shakespeare” has already sold out start. costs to residents and business- nationwide, and Issue No. 3 is cur- “Someone did something out of es. The plans call for focusing rently on racks, depicting the my realm of influence that brought on the use of existing transmis- reimagined Shakespearian world people here to buy it, and we like sion lines within the DWP sys- where classic characters like taking a chance on these kind of tem, choosing new sites that are Hamlet, Othello, Romeo, Juliet, books,” Liebowitz said. in or near California, and maxi- Lady MacBeth and Richard III are Jim Wilburn, an employee at mizing land owned by DWP to heroes and villains pitted against Melrose Music and Comics, locat- help trim costs and keep the each other in one narrative uni- ed at 7301 Melrose Ave., is less utility on target to meet renew- verse. optimistic, observing some interest able energy and greenhouse gas “We have an opportunity to cast but minimal discussion about the emission reduction goals. new light on these characters,” Del title. Still, Chris Rosa, manager of The Milford Phase II project Col said. Meltdown Comics, located at 7522 photo by Tim Posada will provide enough renewable “Most people have actually real- Sunset Blvd., has found even better The owner of Golden Apple Comics on Melrose Avenue said he likes to ly enjoyed it.” reception than Golden Apple energy to serve 33,660 Los take a chance on up-and-coming comic book authors, such as Connor Currently, Marvel and DC Angeles residents. See Comics page 19 McCreery and Anthony Del Col.

Luther Burbank – a name to be proud of. 5 Month CD Luther Burbank lived and worked in Santa Rosa, California. During his life, he introduced over 800 varieties of plants and hundreds of ornamental flowers including the Shasta daisy. His Russet Burbank Potato is still the most widely cultivated potato in the United States.

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www.lutherburbanksavings.com Limited time offer. Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is effective as of publication date and may change thereafter. Offer applies to new money only. Early withdrawal penalties apply and may reduce earnings. Personal accounts only. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 7 July 29, 2010 Classic Freeway Mural Makes a Comeback Thousands Celebrate os Angeles City Councilmem- Apollo mural once adorned the keep graffiti from ruining the Lber Tom LaBonge, 4th District, northbound side of the Hollywood artist’s vision.” recently joined representatives of (101) Freeway between Spring Previously, servicing or repaint- Hollywood Walk of Fame the California Department of Street and Broadway. It was ing the freeway murals would Transportation (Caltrans) for the designed and painted by muralist require lane and shoulder closures. unveiling of a replica of the John Wehrle in 1983 for the 1984 Also, the repairs were often short- “Galileo, Jupiter, and Apollo” Los Angeles Olympics. Its replica lived, as they would be vandalized mural along the northbound is located in the same place along almost immediately after repair Hollywood (101) Freeway. the freeway, and is made of recy- work was complete. The replica The replica is the first of a series cled plastic and vinyl. murals can now be mounted and of mural replicas to be installed “Our freeway system is a river of removed for periodic cleanings around the City of Los Angeles as humanity and we need those beau- without impeding traffic, and the part of the Mobile Mural tiful vistas along the way,” material is resistant to most graffiti Demonstration Project, which is LaBonge said. “Vandalism has paint. The Caltrans Transportation funded by a grant from Wells ruined some of our finest murals, Art Program has initiated the Fargo. The Galileo, Jupiter, and but this program will allow us to replacement project to try new and innovative ways to improve free- way aesthetics and reduce disrup- tions to traffic, at no cost to taxpay- ers. The mural replica will remain in place for 90 days. “The Mobile Mural Demonstration Project gives photo courtesy of Bob Freeman/Hollywood Chamber of Commerce Caltrans the ability to work with Thousands of people flocked to Hollywood on July 25 for a commu- communities and businesses like Wells Fargo to improve the look of nity-wide celebration marking the 50th anniversary of the Hollywood the freeway landscape, make neces- Walk of Fame. As part of the celebration, tours of the iconic Capitol sary upgrades, and save tax dol- Records Building were held, which attracted approximately 1,100 lars,” said Dan Freeman, Caltrans people. Other festivities included a Native American blessing, a Walk Deputy District Director of of Fame Star ceremony for big Band Leader Luis Prima, museum Maintenance. tours, film screenings and special giveaways.

photo courtesy of the Fourth District Council Office A replica of a mural titled “Galileo, Jupiter, and Apollo” has been placed on the Hollywood Freeway. The original was painted on the side of the freeway in conjunction with the 1984 Olympics, but was later removed because of maintenance issues. New Director Nominated to Run Planning Department ayor Antonio Villaraigosa transparent. In addition, LoGrande Mhas nominated Michael will ensure that all stakeholders LoGrande as the new Director of from local communities are includ- the Los Angeles City Planning ed in the planning process. Department. “I am honored to be chosen for ”Michael LoGrande has a deep this opportunity to lead our city’s knowledge of the city and its plan- planning department,” LoGrande ning department that will enable said. “I plan to work diligently to him to immediately implement meet the mayor’s directive to com- changes that will ensure the health plete the update of the community of our city’s growing communi- plans as well as bring a higher level ties,” Villaraigosa said. “With his of transparency to constituents. I extensive experience and commit- hope to effectively implement ment to the city, he is someone who change while building consensus can hit the ground running and between departments and among quickly implement change.” our stakeholders.” As planning director, LoGrande LoGrande’s previous work in the will be responsible for updating planning department includes the community plans; completing creation in 2004 of the Expedited development reform; and imple- Processing Section (EPS). EPS has menting a reorganization of the provided entitlements for more planning department to better serve than 15,000 housing units since its constituents. LoGrande will also inception, as well as major devel- lead the department in implement- opment projects such as the ing a “Best-in-Class” development Wetherly Project in the West 3rd process, and a system that will be Street area, and the W Hotel and more streamlined, accountable and Residences in Hollywood.

                          "! " "  "#$ 8 July 29, 2010 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

L.A. County Sheriff’s ‘Project Isaiah’ Fires Guns WeHo Kicks Off Summer Games he Los Angeles County Sheriff’s TDepartment held its annual “Project Isaiah” ceremony on July 27, where firearms that were confiscated during the past year are melted down for use in con- struction projects and other applications. “We will be destroying 8,294 rifles, pis- tols, knives, and other weapons of destruction,” Sheriff Lee Baca said. “This collection of weapons can be attributed to the hard work of the law enforcement officers throughout Los Angeles County. The weapons will never again be used to commit a crime or used to threaten or intimidate an innocent victim.” The confiscated weapons are destroyed annually according to California state law. A majority of the steel will be used for reinforcing bar in construction projects, and upgrades to freeways and bridges. “Project Isaiah” photo by Tim Posada takes its name from a biblical passage in the Book of Isaiah (Isaiah 2:4) that calls West Hollywood recreation leader, Alicia Martin, coached children for swords to be beaten into plowshares ages six through 14 in the 50-yard dash as one of the events held as a way of bringing peace. The confis- at the City of West Hollywoodʼs 16th Annual Salʼs Summer Games cated weapons came from cities that con- on Tuesday, July 27 at West Hollywood Park. The events included tract for policing with the sheriff’s long jump, softball throw, soccer and basketball shoot-outs, the 50- department, including West Hollywood, yard dash and an obstacle course. Following the summer games, as well as several other municipalities, all participants received a Certificate of Participation award and the photo courtesy of the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department including Beverly Hills. top three athletes received gold, silver and bronze medals.

Farmers Market      Thee’s    Music Nights This Week’s Special he “Thursday Night Jazz” and Rum Balls T“Friday Night Music” series at $1.89 ea. the Original Farmers Market, cor-        ner of 3rd and Fairfax, will offer more free music throughout Our Decorated Cakes Make Your August. The featured acts include a Special Events Memorable! band that was formed at the Market, Order one today! two returning bands whose popu- larity has created a loyal following, birthdays • anniversaries • weddings • bar/bat mitzvahs and a jazz performance covering   the full spectrum of the genre.             The “Thursday Night Jazz”      series features the debut of a group that grew out of a typical Farmers Market encounter. DJ Bonebrake has been performing at the Farmers NEW!! Market for several years. He recently ran into Mark Christian, a The Rolls Royce of Carne Asada! musician who is also one of the Market’s sound technicians. The two realized they shared a mutual $ 421$# admiration for rarely heard country jazz from the 1940s and ‘50s, and 1# $ #7 formed the “Jazz Rangers”, who 52 3')) will perform on Thursday, August 5. Other performances in August  #$ %320 include the straight-ahead jazz of the “Michael LeVan Trio”;  “Katisse” performing hip-hop jazz; ))  563 ) and the “Otis Hayes Quartet” fea- Grill turing world beat jazz. '!$7$ &6"( The “Friday Night Music” series 5$ ( $   Ready! will include “Rudy Regalado” on  Friday, August 6; and “Janet Klein 2683$ 211   and the Hot Club Quartet” on  '5 Friday, August 13. Additional bands performing in August include the “L.A. Bluescasters” and “Katia Moraes & Sambaguru”, a Brazilian Marconda’s Meats jazz/samba ensemble. The free musical performances 6333 W. Third St. • Farmers Market begins at 7 p.m. on the West Patio of the Farmers Market, located at 323.938.5131 6333 W. 3rd St. For information, Family Owned at the Farmers Market for 65 Years call (323)933-9211, or visit www.farmersmarketla.com. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 9 July 29, 2010 ʻSaltʼ Adds Dash of Taste to Summer Line Up n the wake of Jason Bourne, a digressing to a boring “tough girl” – Inew action thriller takes center On Screen like Uma Thurman in “Kill Bill” – stage. Replacing our favorite with no real sexual urges, Jolie pre- American spy with an identity crisis WITH sents a femininity that is neither the is a CIA agent with an ominous past TIM POSADA damsel in distress nor the evil and an uncertain motive. Meet temptress. She’s not weak and she “Salt” and prepare for a new action doesn’t use her “feminine charm” series worth the price of admission. to get what she wants; the clothes Two years after a hostage stint in given him plenty of work, with stay on, but the gloves definitely North Korea, CIA Agent Evelyn Tom Clancy adaptations and law come off. I imagine this one will be Salt (Angelina Jolie) is about to enforcement stories. But “Salt” examined in gender studies courses transition to a desk job. That is until shows us that this old dog can still for both the recast decision and the a mysterious Russian officer turns keep the story engaging even resulting depiction. A positive himself in, claiming he has infor- though Cold War fear is a 60-year- Hollywood example of women in mation on a Russian attack more old subgenre. new roles? She does have quite a than 30 years in the making. He The big hype behind “Salt’ is few action films to her name, so I declares that Salt is in fact a Jolie filling a guess we’ll just Russian KGB officer, infiltrating man’s shoes in a have to see where photos courtesy of Sony Pictures the U.S. government in preparation part originally Jolie presents the story goes Angelina Jolie stars as CIA agent Evelyn Salt in the spy thriller “Salt”. for what had become known as written for Tom before any final “Day X,” where all the sleeper Cruise. Can a a femininity assessment can be McGyver-esque way with an agents would strike. Rather than woman do a man’s that is neither made. aerosol can and an office chair. Just stick around to sort things out, Salt job? Too many This is Jolie’s bordering over-the-top with a mini- goes rogue, looking for both misogynist com- the damsel in film with only mum of action film patronizing – answers and her missing husband, ments will certain- minimal parts for like a Counterintelligence agent Mike Krause (August Diehl). With ly fill audiences’ distress nor Liev Schreiber and shooting his gun at Salt, not only in partner Ted Winter (Liev Schreiber) minds (and make the evil Chiwetel Ejiofor, public, but while she’s on top of a and Counterintelligence agent their sexist way to who do their parts moving semi-truck with a gas tank Peabody (Chiwetel Ejiofor) close Internet forums), temptress. well. Jolie’s char- – “Salt” remains agreeable, edge- behind, Salt collides with busy but the film does- acter progression of-your seat entertainment to the roads, law enforcement blockades n’t make Jolie from beginning to end, even if the story becomes pre- and enemies on every side; all the masculine, rather it allows her to end is quite fascinating. It’s an dictable during the climax. while her true loyalties remain organically take on the role. The intense experience with great A promising start to a series and unknown. film is a wonderful fit for the action—especially hand-to-hand great night at the movies, “Salt” is With a slew of screenplays to his actress, who continually proves her combat scenes. what action films should look like: credit (“Law Abiding Citizen”, cinematic worth year after year. “Salt” is a strong start to what car chases, gunfights and mystery. “The Recruit” and “Street Kings”), Rather than banking on a sultry could be a franchise property as Let’s just hope they don’t title the writer Kurt Wimmer presents solid babe sporting big guns in enjoyable as the “Bourne” films. sequel “Pepper”. And don’t worry, structure and believable characters “Wanted”, Jolie’s performance It’s hard not to make such a com- Jolie loses the blond hair – that with just enough mystery to make doesn’t feel like a woman doing parison since Salt finds herself in same blond hair that ruined her you doubt your original suspicions man’s work but something that several precarious positions, barely character in “Gone in 60 Seconds” as the story unfolds. Director Philip goes beyond conventional repre- escaping. All she’s got is her highly – quickly, going to the darker locks Noyce basks in the genre that’s sentations of the sexes. Instead of skilled combat training and she does so well. 10 July 29, 2010 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press ʻProcreationʼ Crashes, ʻBeckyʼs New Carʼ Comes to Life on Stage rocreation” is Justin Tanner’s “Platest corrosive comedy, and Mad About “Becky’s New Car” is a measured hoot from veteran Steven Dietz. If Theatre you believed that old bromide that all happy families are alike, although some are more alike than others, well, forget it. These plays have very little in common except the family part, and ‘happy’ might be an ill-advised adjective in both by Madeleine Shaner cases. her first family – Deanie (Patricia “Procreation” Scanlon), Andy (Brendan Broms) ustin Tanner has been the leading and the openly gay Trey (Danny Jlight of comedy from the dark Schmitz), visiting now with his side since the 1980s, proving to friend/guest, Lawrence (Tom photo courtesy of the Obyssey have a marvelous facility for humor Fitzpatrick), and she has no further Kody Batchelor (center) is joined by the cast of “Procreations”, co-produced by Odyssey Theatre nwith Linda on the risqué edge and some crazy interest in any of their weary and wonderful plots and characters that wayward behavior, which includes Toliver and Gary Guidinger. have remained in our memories for all the usual suspects: slovenliness, a couple of decades. “Pot Mom”, alcoholism, debt and debauchery. 2055, or www.odyssey - them to break the fourth wall with goes as long as the playwright can “Bitter Women”, “Teen Girl” and Hope’s grossly overweight teenage theatre.com. her in aiding and abetting her get- dig himself out of the comical hole many others sustained us for as son, Gavin (Kody Batchelor), who away, actually getting three ladies he’s dug for himself. And of course, long as we had appetite for zany, jiggles his obnoxious body fat from “Becky’s New Car” from the audience to help her being a superior playwright, he lovably funny, outrageous charac- his bed-and-bath (literally) to his ecky’s New Car” is almost change from her ordinary worka- does…to a point, except that sud- ters and unlikely plots. With some favorite place under the junk-food “Bas wholesome as day slacks and sweater to a killer denly the realities surrounding the lapses while opportunity (TV) laden table, stops at some point to “Procreation” is skuzzy. Becky black dress that makes her long marriage and easy betrayal of beckoned, there’s been scarcely a slip under his yucky bed blankets (Rebecca) Foster, played by the Cinderella-ready – oh, that was a a trust make it not such a farce after season without a Tanner play, either with his new, naked pal, Kent lovely and amazing Joanna fairytale too! all. And besides, except for the performing or in the hopper for the (Cody Chappel). This horror show Daniels, is an overworked office Well, paradise palls and there are early plot contrivances, we’re sis- ultimate in entertainment. His latest seemed to a- manager at a car farcical complications that belie the terhood-bound to grant Becky the success, here in L.A. and in a sell- muse the ready- dealership, who actuality of Becky’s change of benefit of the doubt. At least for out at The Studio Theatre in New to-be-amused All the has a decent but heart. So the best thing for Becky to now. Grand performances all York was “Voice Lessons” with the first night audi- not very exciting do is disappear, but, unfortunately, around make Becky’s new car an wonderful Laurie Metcalf and ence, but the performances husband of 28 it’s not a farce any more and we’re easy drive. That’s not enough rea- French Stewart, a superb and hilar- main questions are first class, years, Joe (Jon no longer in the sympathy clique son for being picky. ious romp, with style and great to be asked are Eric Preston). with our lovely heroine. Comedy Directed with style by Michael humor. ‘what is the and veteran On a particularly can just as easily become tragedy, Rothaar, on William Wilday’s smart “Procreation” coming as it does attraction here?’ busy evening, a but fortunately we have a deft play- set. Pacific Resident Theatre, 703 just when we’re ready for a new And ‘why are director David late-arriving cus- wright, Stephen Deitz, who writes Venice Boulevard, Venice. Thursday Tanner play, takes a huge cast and we wasting time Schweizer tomer, Walter (a with a commission from a Seattle to Saturday 8:00pm, Sunday 3:00pm, somehow manages to misuse them with these startlingly fine patron of the arts who was gifting through August 15. (310)822-8392 or badly. The characters are carica- untasty, ill-be- makes it all Brad Green- his wife with the play, so anything www.pacificresidenttheatre.com. tures that one never gets to like or haved people?’ happen. But quist), is looking care about. Hope (Melissa Denton), All the perfor- to buy nine cars and her husband, Michael (Michael mances are first when do we get for his employ- Halpin), are getting their cluttered class, and veter- to the funny ees who are home ready for an 80th birthday an director going to be sur- ‘Rent’ Cast Finalized for surprise for Hope’s aging mother, David Schwei- part? prised at a party Ruby (Danielle Kennedy), a teen- zer makes it all at his grand digs sized, octogenarian beauty who, it happen. But on a private Hollywood Bowl Debut seems, is pregnant with octuplets when do we get to the funny part? island somewhere off Seattle. (surprise, surprise!) provided by her “Procreation” runs Fridays at 8 Brad’s a sad widower, who can’t young, heart healthy new husband, p.m., Saturdays at 7 p.m. and 9:30 get over his wife’s death. He is Perry (Jonathan –you-just-have-to- p.m., and Sundays at 7 p.m., immediately taken with Becky and eat-right-and-exercise-Palmer). It through August 15, at The Odyssey assumes, irrationally and wishful- seems Grandma Ruby has suffered Theatre Ensemble, 2055 South ly, and also for comedic purposes, a sea change since she dragged up Sepulveda Blvd., WLA. (310)477- that she too is bereft and alone. So naturally he falls hook, line and sinker, for the wholesome Becky. Suddenly, after being invited to the party on Walter’s island, Becky begins to see how empty is her lot. Following her own philosophy – that when a woman says she wants a new house, she really wants a new husband; when she says she wants a new car, she really wants a new life – Becky sneaks away from her bread and butter husband and her snippy, lazy son, the

wannabe psychologist who still photo courtesy of the Hollywood Bowl lives at home in the basement, and The Pussycat Dolls singer and “Dancing With the Stars” winner, enters the glamorous aura of the impossibly rich. It all seems rather Nicole Scherzinger, completes final casting for the Hollywood Bowl sudden for Becky to change into run of the musical “Rent”. Directed by Neil Patrick Harris, another skin, but change she does, Scherzinger joins Skylar Astin, Telly Leung, Collins Pennie, the orig- to her own surprise and to the hor- inal “Seasons of Love” vocalist Gwen Stewart, Tracie Thoms, and ror of those who love her. When Aaron Tveit. Scherzinger will also share the stage with fellow the fire gets too hot, Becky gets Hollywood celebrities, Vanessa Hudgens, star of “High School burned and to heck with her pedes- Musical”, and Emmy winner and Grammy nominee, Wayne Brady, trian life and her lazy son and her who will play Tom Collins. “Rent” will have three performances only overburdened lifestyle. This is all a at the Bowl on Friday and Saturday, August 6 and 7 at 8:30pm, and bit hard to believe, but it’s a come- Sunday, August 8 at 7:30pm. Tickets are now on sale, and may be dy, right? And besides, Becky’s purchased by phone at (323)850-2000, online at www.hollywood- such a sweet and lovely woman photo by J. J. Jete bowl.com, in person at the Hollywood Bowl box office or through Joanna Daniels stars as Becky in Steven Dietz's new comedy “Beckyʼs that she shares her thoughts with Ticketmaster. New Car”. the audience, and even inspires Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 11 July 29, 2010 NAACP Chooses L.A. for Conference GLAZA Hosts he National Association for the will host the convention next year. Angeles has become in terms of TAdvancement of Colored “By coming to a global capital accommodations, meeting facilities People (NAACP), the nation’s old- like Los Angeles, the NAACP is and entertainment offerings.” est and largest civil rights organiza- ensuring that its message of equali- The four-day gathering will be ‘Music in the Zoo’ tion, has selected Los Angeles as the ty can reach a global audience,” held from July 23-28, 2011, and is site of its 2011 annual conference. Garcetti said. “The NAACP annual expected to generate $11.4 million Los Angeles City Council convention is one of the nation’s citywide. Visitors to the convention President Eric Garcetti attended the premier gatherings, and its return are also expected to book approxi- 2010 Convention in Kansas City, after more than 30 years demon- mately 13,000 hotel rooms in Los and recently announced that L.A. strates how competitive Los Angeles. Tussauds JFGLA’s New Website Pledges Large Creates Stronger Online Donation to be Jewish Community Used Towards he Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles has launched a new Twebsite designed to be a “central address” for the Jewish commu- Walk of Fame nity. Through the website, users can join a group; learn about net- working, volunteer and philanthropic opportunities offered exclusive- photo courtesy of GLAZA adame Tussauds Hollywood ly through the Jewish Federation; find an event in the local communi- he Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA) presents a rare has pledged to donate a por- ty; or search the Federation’s community guide. opportunity for an after-hours visit at “Music in the Zoo: Local M T tion of proceeds from tickets to Information on locating a synagogue or a kosher market will also be Scene Night” on Friday, August 6. the restoration of the Hollywood offered. Visitors to the site can read the Jewish Federation blog and Performances will take place throughout the Los Angeles Zoo and Walk of Fame. share stories about being a part of Botanical Gardens while guests view the animals. The evening also Over the next five years, Los Angeles’ Jewish community. offers several interactive animal education and conservation stations Madame Tussauds will donate 50 “Our new website will make it located throughout the Zoo, each staffed by docents and volunteers. “We’ve taken a cents from each Local Only Ticket easier for the entire community Picnics are permitted, and an array of food and beverage offerings will to restoring the landmark. The to get involved in Jewish life, large, complex, be available. The event is from 6 to 9 p.m., with animal viewing until Local Only Ticket offers a $15 find ways to take action and 8 p.m. 100-year-old admission to the museum for Los make an impact,” said Jay Local Scene Night offers music from an all-Los Angeles-band ros- Angeles County residents. Sanderson, president of the ter, including the Happy Hollows, Voxhaul Broadcast, Useless Keys, organization Madame Tussauds Hollywood is Jewish Federation of Greater The Lonely Wild, Walking Sleep and Slang Chickens. Additionally, one of the first Hollywood-based Los Angeles. “We’ve taken a and made it Kidrockers joins the Happy Hollows and Useless Keys for child- entities to commit to the restora- large, complex, 100-year-old friendly entertainment. more intimate, tion of the Walk of Fame. organization and made it more “Music in the Zoo” is one of many programs presented by GLAZA, “As a good neighbor to this intimate, engaging and relevant. engaging and a private, non-profit organization that supports the zoo. Admission to remarkable landmark known the I’m proud that here in Los “Music in the Zoo” is $12.50 for GLAZA members; $16.50 for non- relevant.” world over, we feel it a privilege Angeles we’ve now set the bar members. The Los Angeles Zoo is located in Griffith Park at the junc- and an honor to make a notewor- digitally for other federations tion of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) freeways. For informa- --Jay Sanderson thy contribution and we expect and the rest of the Jewish world tion, call (323)644-6042, or visit www.lazoo.org. other Hollywood area companies to follow.” will step forward,” Madame The Federation works to bring the community together to create Tussauds general manager Adrian a vibrant Jewish present — and guarantee a vibrant Jewish future. Jones said. By leveraging communal resources and the expertise of local, National Night Out Against Madame Tussauds Hollywood national and international partners, the Federation attmepts to is located at 6933 Hollywood ensure the continuity of the Jewish people, care for Jews in need in Blvd., next to Grauman’s Chinese Los Angeles and abroad, support a secure State of Israel, and sus- Crime to Bring 2,000 Plus Theatre. For information, visit tain vulnerable communities across the City of Los Angeles. www.madametussauds.com. For information, visit www.JewishLA.org. Participants to West Hollywood

he City of West Hollywood is Avenues; Havenhurst Drive from Texpecting nearly 2,000 resi- Santa Monica Boulevard south to dents to participate in National the alley; Kings Road from 1124 N. Night Out Against Crime on Kings Rd. to 1209 N. Kings Rd.; Tuesday, August 3. and Vista Street from Lexington The event is designed as a com- Avenue south to the alley just north munity-wide event to show unity of Santa Monica Boulevard. against crime, and includes events For more information, call and social gatherings in neighbor- (323)848-6831, or visit hoods throughout the city. www.weho.org/nno. Neighborhood events will include block parties, barbecues, entertain- ment and dancing. Many gather- ings will also feature live music and activities for children. “National Night Out is an impor- tant occasion for the West Hollywood community to come together as neighbors,” West Hollywood Mayor John Heilman said. “Our tradition of hosting National Night Out provides a wonderful opportunity to meet new neighbors, catch up with old ones and at the same time, foster rela- tionships, which ultimately make us all more safe.” Numerous street closures will take place from 4 to 10 p.m., including the cul-de-sac at Sherbourne Drive and Ashcroft Avenue, with closures at San Vicente Boulevard and Ashcroft Avenue, and Ashcroft Avenue at Sherbourne Drive; Lloyd Place extending east from Elevado Street to Norma Place; Norton Avenue between Laurel and Hayworth

14 July 29, 2010 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

stole video equipment valued at about $1,000. West L.A. Burglars Hit Jewelry Shops

POLICE BLOTTER A man reported at 5:40pm that an etectives from the Los Angeles unknown thief had stolen his road DPolice Department are search- bicycle, valued at $3,200m, from a ing for two men responsible for a The following information was reported to the West Hollywood Sheriff’s Station public parking structure in the 800 between July 13 and July 21, 2010. If you are a victim of a crime, here are the block of Doheny where it was couple of robberies in the West Los telephone numbers of local law enforcement agencies; Los Angeles Police locked. Angeles area. Department, Wilshire Division (323)485-4022 and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s The first robbery occurred on Department West Hollywood Station (310)855-8850. July 19 May 4, at 9:30 a.m., in the 9000 block of West Pico Boulevard when WEST HOLLYWOOD A woman reported at 2:08pm that two suspects walked into an antique PROPERTY CRIME Two unknown African-American an unknown thief had recently store, ordered the store employee to male thieves entered a retail busi- stolen her wallet and a pair of the floor and stole a large amount of July 13 ness in the 8800 block of Sunset, jeans from her open vehicle in a antique jewelry. The suspects ran stole a quantity of clothing and fled parking lot in the 100 block of in an SUV at 7:00pm. The retail away from the store and the victim 11:00 pm, 1000 block of Kings. A Robertson. The loss was estimat- was not injured during the robbery. loss was estimated at about ed at about $1,300. woman reported at 11:00pm that $12,789. The second robbery occurred on photo courtesy of LAPD an unknown thief had stolen her A man reported at 7:22pm that his July 4, at 12:15 p.m., when investi- A composite sketch of a suspect. wallet, containing about $80, from 11:38 pm, 1200 block of La Brea. gators say the pair walked into the her kitchen counter in her home in bicycle, valued at $600, had At 11:38pm, as she walked on the recently been stolen from the park- front door of an antique store locat- The other suspect is described as the 1000 block of Kings. Her car sidewalk in the 1200 block of La an African-American or Hispanic keys were also stolen and she later ing lot at the rear of his apartment ed in the 2000 block of South Brea, a woman was forcibly robbed in the 900 block of Ogden. Robertson Boulevard. Once inside, male who is also between 20 and 25 discovered her car had been stolen by an unknown Hispanic male sus- from the gated parking garage. the two men posed as customers years old. He had black hair and pect who took the victimʼs purse, July 21 then bound and forced a store brown eyes, stood five-feet-eight- containing a cellular phone, about inches tall and weighed about 150 July 14 $200 cash and miscellaneous employee to the floor and took a During the night, an unknown thief items, and then fled on foot. large amount of money and antique pounds. During the day, an unknown bur- stole a fax machine, valued at jewelry. The victim was not injured Surveillance footage shows the $200, from the bar area of a glar entered an apartment in the July 17 during the robbery. two suspects walking in the vicinity 900 block of Keith and stole a jew- restaurant in the 9100 block of The weapon used for both rob- of the store. The footage is avail- Sunset. elry box containing necklaces, At 6:30pm, an unknown thief stole beries was a black revolver. able at www.lapdtv.org. rings, earrings and a watch. The an employeeʼs unattended cellular During the week, eleven suspects One suspect is described as an Anyone with information is loss was estimated at about phone, valued at $340, from atop a African-American male between encouraged to call (310)444-1529. $11,110. were arrested for burglary or theft counter at a business in the 800 after being observed shoplifting at 20 and 25 years old. He has black block of San Vicente. local retail businesses. hair, brown eyes and a medium skin July 15 tone. He stood five-feet-11-inches An unknown male Hispanic sus- During the week, following four %1)@87@ At 1:11am, a male Caucasian ten- tall and weighed about 200 pect entered a market in the 7800 separate traffic collisions, four male ant of an apartment building in the pounds. He was mild mannered block of Santa Monica at 6:30pm, drivers were arrested for driving (3E!87FA 1000 block of Sierra Bonita was and well spoken. stole a 12 pack of beer, valued at under the influence of alcohol. arrested shortly after burglarizing about $16, and fled on foot. another apartment in the building. ()7A7 @A)A1 During the week, eight vehicles July 18 were burglarized by unknown sus- A man reported at 8:40am that an pects. Total estimate of damage $6)7 unknown thief had stolen a laptop 12:10 am, 1300 block of Crescent and articles taken was $9,100. computer, valued at $2,000, from Heights. As they walked on the atop the kitchen counter in his con- sidewalk, three women were During the week, two vehicles dominium in the 9200 block of )!& $%' %" *$ robbed at gunpoint by an unknown were stolen by unknown thieves. Norton. male African American suspect $! "!*&""&" )$  who took two purses containing an During the week, three reported At 12:10pm, an African-American iPod, wallets, identification, credit stolen vehicles were recovered male suspect was arrested for bur- )!&&"($! !&&" cards and cash and fled on foot. and the owners notified. glary and theft by credit card after The loss was estimated at about )"&% * %(!% stealing a victimʼs wallet and charg- $1,550. During the week, thirteen vehicles ing more than $50 at a business in were impounded for thirty days the 600 block of Robertson. The During the night, an unknown bur- since they were being driven by an &"$*"'%%"! * suspect also stole an iPhone, val- glar broke into a business in the unlicensed driver or a person with photo courtesy of LAPD )"$&   "!" $% ued at $600. 7500 block of Santa Monica and a suspended or revoked license. A composite sketch of a suspect. $ *"!,&$)"$%%"'$ LAPD Nabs Gang of Jewlrey Thieves Man Seen Fleeing Deadly House Fire  $! !)!&&"& %&$!$&"" he Los Angeles Police $90,000 after they were booked at North Hollywood resident &$"' " *#$%"! ##$% TDepartment arrested three men the downtown Metropolitan Jail. Awas found burned to death who stole $30,000 in gold chains Detectives described the robbery last week inside her home in !!! $% from the Broadway Gold Center, crew as members of a South Los Valley Village. located at 601 South Broadway, in Angeles Blood gang that has On July 24, at approximately 7    *&%+%# * downtown Los Angeles. robbed at least one other jewelry p.m., Los Angeles City Fire “A group of our narcotics detec- store. Three men quickly entered Department personnel responded '!!%%$*"!% tives were in the right place at the Abel’s Jewelry Store, located at 450 to a residential fire in the 11500 right time,” said Lt. Paul Vernon, South Broadway on July 14. Block of Riverside Drive. The "!,&$)"!$&% *$ Commanding Officer of the Central “Just like in [the Broadway Gold Fire Department extinguished the $! "!* Detective Division. “The suspects Center] robbery, they jumped the blaze and discovered the body of ran out of the store as the undercov- counter and grabbed gold chains a woman inside the residence. er detectives were waiting at the hanging on the walls,” Vernon said. A Los Angeles Police ,(! %%*! ,  light. The timing could not have Detectives are investigating Department North Hollywood %%*!& been better.” another series of similar robberies Homicide detectives conducted The detectives, who were in plain along Broadway, which they an investigation, which revealed man inside of the residence. He clothes and plain cars, described the believe are related to a different that the body discovered was that chased the man several blocks but *%**"'!,&&&)& suspects and the silver Toyota get- crew of suspects. of 34-year-old Chere was not able to catch him. Upon *"','&)&*"'! away car to officers over the police “While the crew arrested may be Osmanhodzic, who lived at the returning home, the boyfriend radio. The detectives tried to fol- a different set of robbers, there’s a residence. observed that his house was low but lost the suspects in the good chance both crews know each Detectives say that engulfed in flames. -$"&'%&'! heavy traffic. A few minutes later, other,” Vernon said. “It could be Osmanhodzic’s boyfriend, who Anyone with information is a patrol unit saw the Toyota with 5 the word had gotten out that these also lived at the residence, returned encouraged to call (818)623- *"'"!,&"&"$*"'$% ,# % men inside near 10th Street and chain grabs are a quick and easy from the store and confronted a 4016. "&"$&"%*"'$"'& Stanford Street. buck. With these arrests, that word “The suspects bailed out of the should change now.” car, but the officers were able to Police are recommending to jew-   round them all up,” Vernon said. elry store owners to find better “We recovered about half of the ways to display their chains and cut  gold chains taken.” Some of the down on the thefts. chase and arrest was captured on “The video systems in these      video tape. stores are a big help, too,” Vernon Police arrested Lacey Lindsey, said. “Now we’d like everyone to (46@34916C0&B4A1! 19, of Downey; Len Breazeale, 19, see if they recognize these suspects "8@72161@& of Lynwood; Earl Davenport, 19, of from any other crimes.” (&!&)+ Los Angeles; Alvin Dotson, 19, of Anyone with information on any         Los Angeles; and Khalie Perkins, of these crimes is urged to call '7487 34, of Los Angeles. Their respec- Detective John Arredondo, Central $94C46121 tive bail amounts were set at Robbery Unit, at 213-972-1248. #1AD895 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 15 July 29, 2010

ʻCinema Judaicaʼ Honors Jewish Film Score Composers

he contributions Jewish com- Tposers have made to film histo- ry will be celebrated at an event titled “Cinema Judaica” on Sunday, August 8 at the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre. Sonneland Knighted by The Los Angeles Jewish Symphony (LAJS) orchestra will pay tribute to composers Jerry Goldsmith, Elmer Bernstein, King of Norway Steven Schwartz, Danny Pelfrey, Charles Fox and others with perfor- mances of their scores from movies with themes centering on Jewish heritage. Guest artists include com- poser Yuval Ron, percussionist Jamie Papish, and Israeli-born pianist Andy Feldbau, a scholarship recipient of the America-Israel

“The dramatic and wide- ranging history of the Jewish people comes alive through the film music of our Cinema Judaica program.”

--Noreen Green, LAJC Artistic Director photo courtesy of Laura Stegman The Los Angeles Jewish Symphony orchestra will pay tribute to Jewish Mr. and Mrs. Sidney G. Sonneland were pictured on the cover of the composers by performing their movie scores. July 31, 1975 issue of the Park Labrea News with K.J. Halvorsen, Culture Foundation. acting consul general of Norway. Sonneland, of Curson Towers, had “The dramatic and wide-ranging been knighted by the King of Norway for establishing a foundation history of the Jewish people comes ing works both familiar and unfa- at 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, at the University of Oslo known as the Sonneland Natural Sciences alive through the film music in our miliar by Jewish composers or with across from the Hollywood Bowl. Institute, which is dedicated to furthering studies in natural sciences, Cinema Judaica program, a perfect a Jewish theme,” said LAJC artistic Tickets are $25-$36. For informa- fit for the L.A. Jewish Symphony’s director Noreen Green. tion, call (323)461-3673, or visit physics, biology, chemistry and medicine. A ceremony marking the mission, which includes perform- The Ford Amphitheatre is located www.FordTheatres.org. occasion was held at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, and Halvorsen pre- sented Sonneland with a medal marking his acceptance into the Royal Order of St. Olav, as Knight First Class. Brienza Honored for ʻBest of L.A.ʼ Restorations

ony Brienza, owner of the July 21 at the Fairmont Miramar States, he opened a shop in the Tfurniture restoration business, Hotel in Santa Monica. Melrose area in the 1950s. After House of Brienza, was honored “I am humbly honored to moving a couple of times, he this month in Los Angeles receive this award and being in moved to his present location at Magazine’s “Best of L.A.” fea- the magazine,” Brienza said. “I 2358 S. Robertson Blvd in 2005. ture. Brienza, who has spent the just fee very humbled that I Brienza repairs broken furniture, past 60 years perfecting his craft, would be selected.” re-canes chairs and builds custom was honored in the category of Brienza said the selection was pieces, as well as performing fine “In House Restoration”. Brienza made after he was recommended art and furniture restoration. has spent the last 60 years per- by a client. Brienza learned how Many jobs can be completed at fecting his craft, and said he was to restore furniture during his the customer’s residence. very grateful to receive the honor. youth when he worked in a shop For more information, call the The magazine held a party for owned by his family in Italy. House of Brienza at (310)839- the “Best of L.A.” recipients on After coming to the United 9254.

Answers on page 22 16 July 29, 2010 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press Assistance League Big Green Bus Lives Up to Its Name he Big Green Bus will be mak- Ting a stop in West Hollywood Sells Products Online on Saturday, July 31 as part of its sixth-annual cross-country tour. Twelve students from Dartmouth College travel in the Big Green Bus, spreading the word about environmentally-friendly practices. “As a city, responsibility for the environment is one of our core val- ues. We are pleased to have the Big Green Bus visit West Hollywood and spread the message of sustain- ability,” West Hollywood Mayor John Heilman said. “I encourage those in the area to visit the Big Green Bus and to follow its progress online.” The tour departed from Hanover, New Hampshire in mid-June, and will stop in several locations throughout the United States before returning to New Hampshire by the end of August. The bus is a 1989 MCI coach with an engine modi- fied to run on waste vegetable oil, which promotes alternative fuel and sustainable living. Over the past five summers, Dartmouth stu- photo courtesy of the Assistance League of Southern California dents have traveled more than The Assistance League of Southern California has announced that 56,000 miles and used approxi- its Consignment and Gift Shop is now offering items through online mately 6,500 gallons of waste veg- auctions on eBay and Etsy, in addition to having regular store hours, etable oil in place of diesel fuel. Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shoppers can browse The bus is also equipped with solar either website to see the newest pieces from estates and antique panels, an interior constructed of dealers, including silver, fine china and glass, jewelry and estate fur- sustainable materials, and numer- ous other green technologies. This niture. New items are received on a regular basis, including rare year, the students are augmenting antiquities like a Chinese Han Dynasty Incense Burner (pictured). the summer tour with interactive Sales support the Assistance Leagueʼs social services programs touch screen programs available providing resources annually for approximately 95,000 people in online so visitors can explore more photo courtesy of The Big Green Bus need. The Consignment and Gift Shop is located at 1370 N. St. options for sustainability. Dartmouth students take The Big Green across the country to raise Andrews Pl. For information, call (323)469-1973 ext. 225, or visit For information, visit www.the- awareness of environmental issues. The local stop for the Big Green Bus www.assistanceleaguegiftshop.com. biggreenbus.org. will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. at the public parking lot at 8459 Sunset Blvd.              Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 17 July 29, 2010 Read Poetry to Your Houseplants at Hammer Museum he Hammer Museum presents Tan exhibit titled “Houseplant Vacation” beginning on Saturday, July 31. Museum visitors are invited to give their houseplants a vacation during the museum’s “cultural retreat for plants”. Throughout the entire month, participant’s plants will be installed in the light flooded Lindbrook terrace, and presented with a series of readings, perfor- mances and musical events every Saturday. The plant drop off is scheduled on July 31 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and pick up will be held on August 28 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. No sick or infested plants will be accepted. Participants can download a plant release waiver and are asked to fill it out before coming to the muse- photo courtesy of Hammer Museum um. The “Houseplant Vacation” is funded by a grant from the James Irvine As part of the event, there will be Foundation. musical performances, dramatic readings, historical accounts of Museum was awarded a $1 million is one of the programs made possi- botanical exploration and psychic Arts Innovation Fund grant from ble through the grant. plant healing ceremonies held on the James Irvine Foundation to cre- The Hammer Museum is located Saturdays, August 7, 14 and 21 ate a new model for visitor engage- at 10899 Wilshire Blvd. For infor- from 1 to 4 p.m. ment, conceived and driven by mation, call (310) 443-7000, or In June 2009, the Hammer artists. The “Houseplant Vacation” visit www.hammer.ucla.edu.

photo courtesy of the Autry National Center Roy Rogersʼ first guitar will displayed a the Autry National Center as part of an archive dedicated to the “King of the Cowboys.” Autry Displays Roy Rogersʼ First Guitar he Autry National Center has star.’” Tacquired the first guitar The guitar joins other objects owned by Roy Rogers, who was belonging to Rogers in the known as “The King of the Autry’s permanent collection, Cowboys”. The early 20th centu- including the newly acquired ry acoustic guitar, made by Aida “Roy Rogers and Dale Evans Mandolins and Guitars, was part Archive”, which contains key of the Roy Rogers and Dale artifacts representing the duo’s Evans Museum Collection auc- 50-year entertainment career. The tioned at Christie’s Auction items will be catalogued and dig- House in New York City on July itized, allowing greater access to 14–15. researchers and the general public The guitar that started the through exhibitions and the famous cowboy’s singing career Autry’s two online databases. was purchased by Rogers in “The Autry is proud to add this 1929, when he was still known as important guitar, which sparked Leonard Slye. He bought the gui- the illustrious career of Roy tar for $20 at a second-hand shop Rogers, to our collection,” said in Cincinnati, Ohio, before mak- John Gray, president and CEO of ing his way to California. the Autry National Center. “We Rogers and the guitar eventual- take great pride in being the new ly parted company, but it was re- home of the Roy Rogers and Dale presented to him on a 1953 Evans Archive, and are reaching episode of Ralph Edwards’ televi- out to their fans to help us pre- sion program, “This Is Your serve this collection.” Life”. Artifacts relating to Rogers and The instrument and case Evans are currently on display in include a small plaque that reads, the Imagination Gallery and the “This is your life, Roy Rogers, museum lobby. The Autry Jan. 14, 1953 ‘Young Leonard National Center is located at Slye bought this guitar for $20. 47600 Western Heritage Way, in He learned to play it and to sing Griffith Park. For information, — and so became Roy Rogers, call (323)667-2000, or visit America’s most beloved cowboy www.theAutry.org. Skirball Hosts ʻSunset Concert Seriesʼ he Skirball Cultural Center’s Excelencia on August 12; the Jews Tcourtyard will come alive with on Vinyl Revue on August 19; and music during the 14th annual Kenge Kenge on August 26. “Sunset Concert Series”, which The courtyard offers an outdoor runs on Thursday evenings through setting designed for dancing, cele- August 26, and emphasizes debut bration and engagement, and the performances in Los Angeles. series is designed to connect people Visitors can enjoy the sounds of to one another by embracing sound Hungarian gypsies performing on from around the world. milk cans, Kenyan bards playing “We’re always looking for the handmade fiddles, Yiddish piano perfect outdoor concert,” Skirball bar veterans playing various styles Music Director Yatrika Shah-Rais of music, and many other unique said. musical groups. Natacha Atlas per- The Skirball Cultural Center is forms on Thursday, July 29; fol- located at 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. lowed by Steve Riley and the For information, visit www.skir- Mamou Playboys on August 5; La ball.org. 18 July 29, 2010 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

KCCLA Offers Educational Seminar LACMA ʻPublic Fruit Jamʼ a Meal of an Exhibit he Los Angeles County TMuseum of Art (LACMA) and the Los Angeles-based artist collec- tive, Fallen Fruit, present the latest installment of the “EATLACMA” series on Sunday, August 1. The event is titled “Public Fruit Jam”, and involves a day of collab- orative jam making. Visitors are encouraged to bring homegrown or hand picked fruit, and join other guests in creating unique and

“Public Fruit Jam” involves a day of collabora- tive jam making. Visitors are photo courtesy of KCCLA As part of its 30th anniversary celebration, KCCLA will offer a com- encouraged to photo courtesy 2010 Museum Associates/LACMA prehensive program on Korean history and culture. Stanton MacDonald-Wrightʼs “Still Life With Skull” is one of the artworks bring homegrown featured in the EATLACMA exhibition. or hand picked he Korean Cultural Center, reflects ancient tradition, visit a TLos Angeles (KCCLA) is Korean Buddhist temple, witness fruit. Them Eat LACMA”, a one-day new work by Fallen Fruit, including holding a educational seminar on a traditional tea ceremony and final event in November with more “Fruit Machine”, a series of video Korea from Monday, August 2 explore Koreatown. The seminar than 50 artists and collectives work- portraits, and “Public Fruit through 6 as part of the center’s also includes lectures on Korean impromptu jam recipes. ing to re-imagine the entire muse- Wallpaper”, a decorative wallpaper 30th anniversary celebration. history and culture, and provides “EATLACMA” combines works um’s campus and galleries. Also pattern assembled from fruit pub- The event is presented by greater understanding of Korean from the museum’s permanent col- included are interactive discus- licly available and found in Silver KCCLA and the Korea Academy American students and their fam- lection with the natural growth sions, performances, and events. Lake. The Gardens of LACMA will for Educators, and offers a com- ilies. Attendees will receive free cycle of gardens to create separate The exhibit showcases an assort- also be open throughout the muse- prehensive program on Korean resources and instructional mate- themed events. The series includes ment of works from the musuem’s um grounds. history and culture, and the rials The Korean Cultural Center, a curated set of gardens; an art collection that feature fruit, and LACMA is located at 5905 Korean American experience in Los Angeles (KCCLA) is operat- exhibition titled “Fallen Fruit were picked by Fallen Fruit mem- Wilshire Blvd. For information, the United States. ed by the Korean Government’s Presents EATLACMA”; and “Let bers. The exhibition also features visit www.lacma.org. It is one of only two national Ministry of Culture, Sports and programs focused on Korean his- Tourism. Our mission is to pro- tory and culture. Lectures will be vide everyone with a cultural given by scholars from Stanford, understanding of Korea and we UCLA, Loyola Marymount and also support cultural collabora- Comedians Offer ʻStand-Up Masteryʼ Boot Camp Brigham Young University, as tion with our neighbors in the well as an award-winning Korean U.S. omedians Louie Anderson and Topics include dealing with stage time, to successful headliners who American author. Participants The Korean Cultural Center is CKyle Cease present an event fright, marketing, how to record are searching for a source to help will create rhythmic sounds on located at 5505 Wilshire Blvd. titled “Stand-Up Mastery”, the and edit a proper audition tape, and take them way, way further.” Korean drums, perform taekwon- For information, call (323)936- most advanced installment of the how to find the correct representa- On the final night series, partici- do techniques, create folk art that 7141, or visit www.kccla.org. “Stand-Up Boot Camp” series, run- tion. pants will perform their sets in a ning from Wednesday, August 4 “The stories, advice and experi- showcase with industry profession- through 8 at the Comedy Store. ences at Stand-Up Boot Camp will als and members of media in atten- The interactive event is designed apply to everyone differently,” dance. Blessed Sacrament Names New Principal to immerse aspiring comedians in Cease said. “Students range from For more information, call all aspects of the entertainment people who have never done stand- (323)650-6268, or visit dministrators of the Blessed business. up and wanted to do it for the first www.standupbootcamp.com. ASacrament School in The series was created by Cease, Hollywood have selected Suzanne who is known for the stand-up spe- Patterson-Jones as the school’s new cial “Weirder, Blacker, Dimpler” on principal. Comedy Central. The K-8th grade school and “Stand-Up Boot Camp” teaches )'(9"&8'))$3 preschool are operated by the prospective comedians how to deal 49"&15&$3!29 Blessed Sacrament Parish. Founded with the professional rigors of the in 1904, the church has operated the entertainment industry. 0#'7'#6!( $(!5'104&'2 Jesuit-sponsored school at 6641 Participants will learn from suc- Sunset Blvd. for nearly 100 years. cessful comedians such as !"#$$!!!" “Ms. Patterson-Jones was chosen Anderson, Kevin Nealon, Harland by a diligent search committee to Williams, Russell Peters, Bob replace Ava Haylock, our principal Zmuda, Craig Shoemaker and Bret Suzanne Patterson-Jones. '"$04$#!33'!%$!0#!)'(9 &$3!2'45'(($! of 13 years,” pastor Michael J. Ernst, among others. Mandala said. “We are very pleased that she is bringing her combination of skills in administration and the classroom, along with her apprecia- tion of the value of a Catholic edu- cation, to our school.” Patterson-Jones was a teacher and a district administrator for the Los Angeles Unified School District for more than 20 years. She previously served in administrative positions such as compliance coor- dinator, school services specialist, specialist in English language learning programs, and elementary science teacher advisor. “I’m looking forward to working with the parents and children of Blessed Sacrament School and preschool and building on the tradi- tion of academic excellence for which the school is known,” Patterson-Jones said. Blessed Sacrament is one of only four Jesuit-sponsored elementary schools in California. For informa- tion, visit www.blessedsacramen- thollywood.org. Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 19 July 29, 2010 New Comic Book Series Takes on Shakespeare scholar in particular has been vocally hostile. New York Shakespearian scholar Kimberly Cox, also the girlfriend of comic book author and artist Frank Miller (creator of “Sin City” and “300”), considers “Kill Shakespeare” an affront to the source material and lazy writing, focusing on the lack of iambic pentameter in the dialogue. But Del Col remains optimistic, as many other scholars and Shakespeare enthusiasts have been supportive. “There are Shakespeare purists, but for us, this is a way for Shakespeare to reach new read- ers,” Del Col said. “People really gravitate towards it. From my per- spective, we’re just happy people are debating Shakespeare.” McCreery expects some readers may be offended but sees “Kill

“‘Kill Shakespeare’ is very farcical but also very grounded. You can really tell these guys researched Shakespeare’s life. It has some

photo courtesy of IDW Publishing weight to it.” photo courtesy of IDW Publishing Issue No. 1 of “Kill Shakespeare” sold out nationwide. --Chris Rose, Issue No. 2 of “Kill Shakespeare” is almost sold out at comic stores. Manager, Meltdown Comics From page 6 “We’re not looking for a pay- check, we’re looking for the right their work pattern much quicker, work.” fit.” Comics, selling out the first two with a writing process that can “Kill Shakespeare” is scheduled Last weekend marks their sec- issues and solid sales for Issue No. Shakespeare” as an act of love for take up to a month and another six for a 12-issue run, with the first ond stint at San Diego Comic-Con 3 with the preexisting audience. the greatest literary mind in histo- weeks to illustrate. six issues bound together in a International, ending on a much “I’m a big fan of historical fic- ry. “The way it works is one of us trade paperback to be released on higher note than last year. tion,” Rosa said. “‘Kill “It’s been a really pleasant sur- lead-writes an issue and then we November 9. “The second Comic-Con was Shakespeare’ is very farcical but prise to see scholars, theatre peo- bring the script to Andy, who All issues can be purchased for fun,” McCreery said. “Good ener- also very grounded. You can real- ple and the Illuminati enjoy it,” provides the third eye to the the iPad or iPod online. For infor- gy. ‘Twilight’ gave the Con an ly tell these guys researched McCreery said. “It makes us feel story,” McCreery said. “We all mation, visit www.killshake- energy last year that was a lot of Shakespeare’s life. It has some like we’re doing something worth sit down over some wings and speare.com or www.idwpublish- fun though, regardless of what weight to it.” while.” you think about it.” Writing duo, McCreery and Del For some artists, like Alex Ross, Connor and Del Col said recep- Col, spent this week in meetings known for painting each page, art tion has been largely positive – with producers and potential pro- can be a slow process, taking SUMMER SALE with a surprisingly substantial ject mentors but took time out on months to create a 30-page issue. teenage girl and “tween” fan base Wednesday night, from 6 p.m. to 8 McCreery and Del Col consider – though one Shakespearean p.m., to meet fans at Meltdown Comics for an autograph signing. Connor and McCreery led dif-  %0'$'!#05 2 0'4& #7'7 ( ferent lives two years ago –    3#8#( 7# Connor as a journalist and     McCreery as an independent film creator and manager for pop 2#0 60" 9 '( 2) singer Nelly Furtado – before they dropped their day jobs to focus on “Kill Shakespeare” full time. They currently reside in Toronto, Canada, along with project artist Andy B. Not originally intending to cre- ate a comic book, Connor consid- ers “Kill Shakespeare” an organic creation. “Originally, we were thinking of the idea as a video game when we began,” Connor said. “I guess what kept it from going in the idea Life in BeverlyGrove is good! Living in a grand dame house in pile is that we’re both really into BeverlyGrove is even better for those who appreciate the lifestyle of Shakespeare.” an Angelino…Breakfast at Toast, lunch at the Grove and dinner at the Del Col added that they started Little Door and desert at Baskin Robbins 31 Flavors, at no time did you to think about the best medium to depend on a car, that’s living…there are so many more restaurants, • Front and exterior doors Call for a FREE ESTIMATE We can replace use, and the comic book form felt places to go and things to do so close to home. Your place will become • Interior and closet doors 1 window, like the right choice. After that, a destination of all who know you. Best of all you can live, work and • Wood, fiberglass, aluminum 323.656.7028 1 door, they created a proposal and play in this rambling Spanish revival. Feel like on a perpetual vacation in & mirrored All work guaranteed • Bonded and Insured pitched the idea at New York a place called home. or a whole house, • Sliding & folding doors License #298720 Comic Con in 2009. Come Check out our website for all our products & specials perfectally February of this year, producers • French doors installed. began to take notice.  • Patio doors www.tashmans.com “We’re lucky because people 14 ('# (#'0 ( 45#3 • Extensive selection 7769 Santa Monica Blvd. are calling us,” Del Col said.        West Hollywood, CA 90069 Since 1961   of hardware 20 July 29, 2010 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press ADA Has Brought Improvements From page 1 “I remember being told I couldn’t with the Metro Accessibility ably have slits in the corners to sig- drive,” Arrigo said. “I still miss dri- Advisory Committee. nify different values, though it’s ving to this day. With mobility “Public transit is the most impor- unclear when they will be intro- comes independence. For people tant issue I’m involved with right duced. with disabilities to be able to live now,” Arrigo said. “Before the In the meantime, though, when independently, they need to be able ADA, it was much more challeng- he goes out, Arrigo has to carry to get around.” ing. I remember in the old days, around a device that reads the bill Around his house, Arrigo navi- when bus drivers had to get out of and tells him how much it’s worth. gates remarkably well. His hand their seats and go let the stairs down “It’s important to everyone to be shakes a little, from of his on the back for wheelchair access. financially secure,” he said. “But Parkinson’s Disease, which he With the new bus system, the audio it’s frustrating to carry around this developed as a result of 15 years on announces each stop. That’s an big bulky thing. I often just ask my antiretroviral drugs, to treat HIV. accommodation that everyone uses, friends to read me the bills, but But he led his dog, Jasper, from the not just the blind. We’re working to I’ve made silly mistakes at restau- living room, through the kitchen, make sure there is access for people rants and left the wrong tip. You and onto the back patio. with disabilities on the Westside have to have a sense of humor and photo by Ian Lovett He said to get around, he counts subway extension, and the high laugh about those problems. If we West Hollywood resident Michael Arrigo said he can get around using his steps, and keeps his house very speed rail from San Diego to San didn’t laugh, where would we be?” public transportation more easily now thanks to improvements made organized. Then he laughed. Francisco as well.” In the past year, however, Arrigo under the Americans with Disabilities Act. “There’s nothing worse than a dis- Arrigo said he can now get has had little to laugh about. Last organized blind person.” around the city free, or at greatly summer, his boyfriend of 14 years It speaks volumes about the Bank of America, and he’s getting Outside his home, however, it is discounted rates, on public trans- died of leukemia. Arrigo still lives progress of people with disabilities married this year.” more complicated. Before the portation. Other issues, however, in the same house he lived in with that Arrigo names the loss of his At this point, Arrigo said, there ADA, there was no requirement persist for disabled people. For his boyfriend, and his friend, partner, not the loss of his sight, as is no reason people with disabili- that sidewalks include curb cuts to instance, of the 186 countries that Andy, has moved in to help him the worst event of his life. ties can’t live whatever kind of life allow wheelchair access — people use paper currency, the United take care of the place. “I have two nephews who also they choose. in wheelchairs had to remain in the States is the only country whose Arrigo walked over to a shelf lost their vision to the same hered- “There’s nothing anyone can’t street and find a driveway to get currency does not have features and picked up a photograph that itary disorder,” Arrigo said. “I’m do,” he said. “I’m lucky, I haven’t back up onto the sidewalk. designed for the blind. showed him with his boyfriend so proud of one of them. He was ever been discriminated against. I Arrigo said making access to The American Council of the and several other friends. going to Ohio State to play foot- can’t drive, that’s a fact, but that’s public transportation for people Blind recently won a lawsuit “I’m the only one in this picture ball, and was hoping to play pro- about it. And every once in a with disabilities is his primary goal. against the United States who’s still alive,” he said. “Losing fessionally. When he lost his sight, while, I’ll go with a friend to an In addition to his work with the Department of the Treasury, which my boyfriend was probably the he sat home for a few months, not empty parking lot, and he’ll let me West Hollywood Disability will have to update its currency. worst thing I’ve ever experi- doing anything, so depressed. But sit with him in the driver’s seat and Advisory Board, he also works Arrigo said the new bills will prob- enced.” now he’s doing great working for drive his truck.”

venture out to see what else the neighborhood has to offer. She also Forum Focuses on Wilshire said the museum’s expansion, From page 4 including a new exhibition space known as the Lynda and Stewart “Somewhere between $3 and up…but it’s going to be slow and Resnik Pavilion, scheduled to open $10 million is wasted every year it’s going to depend a lot on this fall, will help generate more because we pay our bills early,” employment. We lost 8.4 million interest in the area. Koretz added. jobs in the recession, and in the first “The Miracle Mile has become LaBonge said the community half of 2010 we brought back one known internationally as a destina- involvement in the Miracle Mile million.” tion,” Kanschat said. “Everyone is should stand as an example to other Melody Kanschat, president of focused on the Miracle Mile as a districts. He added that the most the Los Angeles County Museum fabulous place with plenty of important thing for the area in of Art (LACMA) also participated opportunity. At LACMA, we have terms of economic impact is getting in the panel and said the museum is experienced pretty good growth the subway completed down working to improve the entire sur- during the past two years, and we Wilshire Boulevard. rounding community. She said the have also tried to be good neigh- “We have the collaboration to be museum is seen as an attraction that bors. We want to make sure the photo by Edwin Folven successful, but we have to be can bring people to the Miracle Miracle Mile looks good and is Los Angeles City Councilman Tom LaBonge, 4th District, said he is opti- resourceful. We have a ten-year Mile, and then encourage them to welcoming to people.” mistic about the future of the area. vision for the subway, and we have to plan now for when the subway comes,” LaBonge said. “We will have stations at Wilshire and La Brea and Wilshire and Fairfax, and I am going to fight to have knock- out panels (passageways from the underground subway platform to The news from around the world – and the street) at a variety of corners.” around the corner – right to your door LaBonge also said he is support- ive of plans to create bus-only lanes on Wilshire Boulevard during rush Los Angeles Times and hours, and plans to support efforts to create better north/south trans- Beverly Press together – portation lines that will link only $1.99 a week Wilshire Boulevard with places like The Grove and the Farmers Market, as well as Hollywood and Get home delivery of the Los Angeles Times every Thursday-Sunday and now you’ll also get the Beverly Press every Thursday with your West Hollywood. subscription. Or get the same deal when you sign up for 7-day service Panel discussions on the current for just $2.99 a week. state and the future of the Miracle Mile were also held to identify Enjoy The Times’ in-depth news and entertainment coverage plus your ways to move forward. Several Beverly Press every Thursday. Subscribe now for just $1.99 a week. panelists said the area has weath- Call 1-800-474-5085 today. ered some tough times during the recent economic downturn, but that Or go to myaccount.latimes.com it is starting to experience a recov- and enter offer code BPLAT ery. to start your new subscription. “The recovery is here, and it has been going on since 2009, but why don’t we feel it? It is because unemployment remains at sky high levels,” said Kimberly Ritter, asso- ciate economist for the Los Angeles Economic Development Corporation. “We are seeing an increase in retail sales and con- sumer spending is on the rise, tourism is also starting to come

back, and occupancy rates are 10DM914 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 21 July 29, 2010 Stores Still Offer Items For Under a Buck From page 1

Now, the company faces two ments. It was national news. It was increased during the last two years, class-action lawsuits, which allege even in the Times of London and with more people looking for bar- that the change in price amounts to newspapers in China. Can you gains since the recession began. false advertising for a store whose think of any other retailer who went “A one percent price increase in name implies a price of only 99 through so much trouble to tell the twenty-eight years is not too shab- cents. public they were raising prices?” by,” Schiffer said. “We’re still stay- “This is a false advertising case,” ing true to our core concept, which said Edward Susolik, an attorney is for everything we carry to be a with Callahan & Blaine, the firm “Can you think good or great value for our cus- that brought the lawsuits. “From tomers.” 1982 to 2008, 99 Cents Only Stores of any other Jack Kyser, chief economic advi- always said nothing costs more retailer who sor for the Southern California than ninety-nine cents, ever. When Association of Governments, said they made the change, they put a went through so the lawsuit will have economic little .99 in extremely small text in much trouble to implications for other bargain ads and on price tags. That’s mis- stores, like Dollar General and leading to virtually every person tell the public Family Dollar. who shops there.” they were “It’s not to say a store can only Eric Schiffer, chief executive at charge 99 cents. Sooner or later the the 99 Cents Only Store, said the raising prices?” product array would have to disap- company went to unprecedented pear,” Kyser said. “They’re in a lengths to inform the public about very competitive retail segment. -Eric Schiffer, the price change. Every time you turn around, you chief executive of the 99 “I don’t think any retailer in the see a new dollar store. There are Cents Only Store history of retailing did what we very low profit margins in this busi- did,” Schiffer said. “We called a ness, so this could be a very impor- press conference at our Beverly Schiffer said that after 26 years tant legal case. I’m sure a lot of Hills location and invited all the of inflation and cost increases, the other bargain stores are watching media. We issued news releases price raise was necessary to keep very, very carefully.” announcing our price increase. We the company profitable. He said Bob Rasmussen, Dean of the put up large posters, changed price stores have received few com- University of Southern California signs, put up recorded announce- plaints, and sales have actually Gould School of Law, said that for the plaintiffs to win the case, they will have to prove two things: first, that everyone who walks into the store has been led to believe that no product ever costs more than 99 cents; and second, that once inside the store, the advertising is decep- photo by Ian Lovett tive. The 99 Cents Only storesʼ products are still sold for under $1, even with “I think it’s a pretty aggressive the price increase. Many items are priced at two or more for under $1. suit,” Rasmussen said. “I’ve gone to Dollar General, and even though about the price increase. He called ago,” Appelbaum said. “Back in the dollar is in the name, some things the results “virtually unanimous” Midwest, we had dollar stores, and cost more than a dollar. I think most — all of the customers thought the now this is basically a dollar. I’m a people kind of realize that the price store’s products cost 99 cents. low-income senior. I don’t know in the store name is generally true At the 99 Cents Only Store on what I’d do without the 99 Cents but not always true. Even if you get Wilshire Boulevard, customers Store.” into the store thinking the price is were better informed. About half of Even those who hadn’t known 99 cents, if you see that it’s a dollar the customers going in and out of about the new price, however, were you can always put the item down, the store on Tuesday afternoon had not bothered by the increase. and you haven’t been harmed. They known about the price increases, Richard Garcia said he hadn’t real- have to show that the store hid the though one customer said she only ized the price was no longer 99 price from customers. I’d say it has found out last week when she heard cents, but he would continue to less than a 20 percent chance of about the lawsuit. shop there. proving all that.” Rose Appelbaum said she comes “Here, a dozen eggs cost a dollar Susolik said that before the law- to the 99 Cents Only Store for just now,” Garcia said. “At Ralph’s, photo by Ian Lovett suit was filed, his firm conducted a about everything. they’re more like $1.29. This is still Charly Madrid, a frequent customer at the 99 Cents Only Stores, said he survey to see how many of the 99 “I’ve known about it for a while, the best value of anywhere was aware of the price increase. Cents Only Store’s customers knew since the price went up two years around.”

City of Los Angeles for more than order of magnitude, it’s pretty ambi- SurveyLA relies on community Survey Looks at City’s History two decades, but the grant from the tious.” interaction to properly label build- Getty Foundation allowed the pro- Brian Curran, vice president of ings, understanding their local sig- From page 1 ject to move forward. Hollywood Heritage, emphasizes nificance as well as architectural HRG will oversee the Hollywood the important timing of the project importance. MyhistoricLA, a office of Historic Resources for the “This effort to identify the historic survey and serve as primary admin- in regards to the future development resource identification form found City of Los Angeles. resources of the City of Los Angeles of Los Angeles. at www.surveyla.org, provides com- Bernstein sees SurveyLA as a is precedent setting in both the vol- “It comes at a very opportune munity members with the opportu- move away from reactionary mea- ume of resources and public out- “We wouldn’t time because the Community nity to provide local histories. sures against developers when reach,” said Linda Dishman, direc- know that story Redevelopment Agency just com- “Some buildings might not be potential historic structures could be tor of the Los Angeles Conservancy. pleted its historic resources survey,” good examples of architecture, but involved. Rather than wait until To ease the extensive research without the Curran said. “This is a precursor to their history as examples of com- individual cases are presented, process, surveyors will be equipped community’s what will happen with SurveyLA, mercial development trends could SurveyLA will answer questions with tablet PCs uploaded with his- breaking it up into various regions be just as important as architectural about historic resources prior to toric data, real estate research and help.” and assigning each building a spe- history,” Bernstein said. investment and development. additional information provided by cific context.” The MyhistoricLA form also pro- The project will begin with three community members. Bernstein A member of the East Hollywood vides step-by-step instructions to pilot surveys, undertaken by differ- refers to the information gathered as -Brian Curran, vice president of Hollywood Heritage Neighborhood Council, Curran create awareness in neighborhoods ent teams covering Hollywood, the the “historic context statement” – recently hosted a walking tour that through oral histories and tours, like West Adams-Baldwin Hills-Leimert which will provide on-the-spot eligi- allowed members of his community the one Curran led. According to Park region, and the Sunland- bility standards to guide survey to identify various types of architec- Bernstein, the response from neigh- Tujunga region. By the end of the teams. istrator for SurveyLA in its first year. ture and discuss the hidden stories borhoods varies, sometimes with year, West Los Angeles, Palms, Mar “One of the interesting things The survey includes both research behind buildings, like the history he upwards of a 100 community Vista and several areas near the L.A. about the project as well is using and property analysis, and will be unearthed at Hollywood responses to barely any. Curran adds Harbor will be surveyed. SurveyLA state of the art technology,” performed by interns and staff with Independent Church, located at that while surveyors can analyze the is currently two years away from Bernstein said. “The historic context a background in architectural histo- 4527 Lexington Ave. exterior of a building, only neigh- surveying the Wilshire area. statement will set a standard of what ry. Due to the teams involved and “Pastor John Varga there told me borhood communities know the real The City of Los Angeles is match- an art deco building has to include to the sizeable scope, McAvoy sees that the church served as a deporta- stories. ing the Getty Grant with funds from be a historic example. It (historic SurveyLA as a project like none tion site to Japanese internment The project will commence in the the Construction Services Trust – context statement) also has integrity other in the country. camps during World War II,” next few weeks. Surveyors will not funds that do not affect police or fire standards like alterations.” “Other cities have survey pro- Curran said. “We wouldn’t know be entering homes but solely department budgets – and the pro- According to Christy McAvoy, grams,” McAvoy said. “This is just that story without the community’s researching the exterior of build- gram has three years to record the managing principal of Historic an attempt to corral one of the help and that’s what needs to hap- ings. For information and to partici- entirety of Los Angeles, which will Resources Group (HRG), survey largest cities in the United States. pen here.” pate in MyhistoricLA, visit be split into more than 11 regions. plans have been proposed to the There’s close to 900,000 parcels. In Curran and Bernstein both said www.preservation.lacity.org/survey. 22 July 29, 2010 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press City Attorney Plans Strict Enforcement From page 1 amount in the interest of public ing viewpoints on allowing access ordinance that took charge of the safety, and to send a message to to medical marijuana, but added issue so we could start enforcing other property owners who allow that the ordinance in place now fol- the law. We had to put the genie supergraphics to be placed on their lows the state law, which stipulates back in the bottle. It created a lot of buildings: if they do not comply that selling marijuana is illegal, political ill will and unrest, but the with the law, they will be put in jail. whether it’s the medical variety or bottom line is, we are a nation of “I asked for that bail because of laws, and I plan to enforce the what he had done in the past and law.” the risk he was creating today. We “You are going Trutanich said a majority of the arrested that guy on a Friday night illegal medical marijuana shops because he finished putting up the to see things closed after the ordinance took supergraphic on Friday morning, come out of this effect in June, but his staff is cur- and I wasn’t going to let that guy rently compiling a list of dispen- go one day without being in jail.” office that you saries that have not closed. He The bail for the Seterah was never would issued a warning to the owners of eventually reduced to $100,000 those dispensaries saying he plans after he agreed to take the super- have thought to crack down on them in the near graphic down. Trutanich said his of.” future. approach worked, and added that “I plan on making sure those approximately 750 additional marijuana places abide by the law,” supergraphics have since been -Los Angeles City Attorney Trutanich added. “As long as they taken down by building owners Carmen Trutanich abide by the law, they will have no throughout the city. problem with the city attorney. But “Once people know we are those who have reopened thinking going in this direction, that we are not. they can illegally reap profits by not fooling around anymore, they “The Compassionate Use Act suing the city as a way to breach start to take action,” Trutanich said. was passed in 1996, and during the ordinance have sadly mis- “The citizens of Los Angeles have those fourteen years, the city never judged the resolve of this city.” a right not to live in a place that is adopted a policy or ordinance to During the coming year, blighted, not by illegal billboards deal with the distribution of med- Trutanich said he plans to focus on not by supergraphics, and not by ical marijuana. It created a gaping higher consumer protection stan- illegal marijuana stores.” hole in the system, and as a result dards. He said his office is working Trutanich said that creating the we had one thousand [dispen- on a variety of lawsuits that he can- city’s medical marijuana ordinance saries]. The city did not have the not discuss at this time because of was another significant accom- will or the strength during that peri- the pending litigation, but added, plishment made during his first od to take the lead and do what was “You are going to see things come year in office. He said it was a dif- necessary to regulate this,” out of this office that you never ficult task, given the many differ- Trutanich said. “We created an would have thought of.” One of the biggest challenges, photo by Edwin Folven Trutanich said, is accomplishing all At the end of his first year in office, Los Angeles City Attorney Carmen that is required of the city’s top Trutanich said he has balanced his budget by finding creative ways to legal representative in an era of raise funding, and maintain staff levels. shrinking budgets and dwindling staff numbers. Trutanich said one lion of our goal [of balancing the is by offering six-month unpaid of the things he is most proud of is budget], and we went out and sued internships in a reserve program to eliminating an $18 million budget law violators and we collected. By attorneys who are just out of law deficit he inherited from former June 30, we ended up with a sur- school, which bolsters the City city Attorney Rocky Delgadillo, plus.” Attorney’s Office’s staff while giv- and actually coming in over budget Trutanich said he plans to con- ing the attorneys real-world experi- for the current fiscal year that tinue that cost-saving approach, ence. He said there are currently began on July 1. He said the key to and credited his staff of approxi- approximately 50 attorneys work- success has been proper manage- mately 550 attorneys and 1,000 ing without pay under the program. ment, and now that the office is support staff for making it happen. Trutanich also said the office is operating in the black, he is formu- He added that while he may have working to become more efficient lating plans to get even more upset some people along the way, by constantly providing more train- aggressive in cracking down on he believes it was necessary to put ing for its staff. Trutanich has cre- violators and collecting the mil- the City Attorney’s Office in a ated a “judicial university” within lions of dollars in debts owed to the position to operate effectively. his office where legal experts pro- city. As far as protecting the city from vide training to other staff mem- “This is a law office, not a polit- liability, Trutanich said he will con- bers. ical office,” Trutanich said. “Last tinue to defend against individual “We still file twenty thousand year we were $18 million over- claims, and plans to address the cases a year, not to mention drawn the day we took office, and millions of dollars the city pays out defending against the two thousand photo by Edwin Folven this year we had a $300,000 sur- each year in worker’s compensa- cases we have going right now,” City Attorney Carmen Trutanich addressed a group last November at the plus. We did it by running a tight tion costs. He said he is also look- Trutanich added. “I am going to ing at innovative ways to expand keep my eye on the ball and keep Hollywood community city hall, where he vowed to crack down on illegal ship, and we didn’t spend any money. We were frugal, we didn’t the City Attorney’s Office within moving forward. My plan is to medical marijuana dispensaries. He followed through by presenting an hire anybody, we had attrition and the confines of its $85 million bud- make this office the best municipal ordinance that strictly limits the number of dispensaries in the city. furloughs. We got within $3.5 mil- get. One way to do more with less law office in the nation.” Burger Stand is at Center of Controversy From page 1

built at the site in 1929. The stand impact report on the project, the Representatives of Pacific has been upgraded over the years, stand would not qualify as a his- Ventures did not return calls for and the gas station is gone. toric resource because much of the comment, but earlier reports have According to an environmental structure was added on over the stated that the company would be decades. willing to consider having Brian Curran, vice president of Molly’s as a tenant in the retail Answers From Page 15 Hollywood Heritage, also said his component of the building. City organization does not believe officials and others may be hold- Molly’s is eligible for historic sta- ing back on discussing the project tus, and he has not become further so as to not jeopardize any involved in the planning process. negotiations that are ongoing. The Curran added that Hollywood city council will first consider the Heritage is supportive of revital- financing for the project, which izing Hollywood as long as it does will then need to receive entitle- not disrupt the historical character ments. of the area. “There has been discussion on “We are obviously always what to do with the burger joint, happy to see infill development, and there may be some big news but there is a debate right now on that in the near future,” Robb photo by Edwin Folven about whether this one has any said. “Right now, it has been con- One of the sticking points in the development plan is whether Mollyʼs will historic significance.” tinued to next Tuesday.” remain on site, or will be relocated.