CSUN Scene, Spring 2014

BIKE MODS | WEEKEND GUIDE | THE BEST OF LA’S FOOD TRUCK SCENE

SPRING 2014

A STUDENT PUBLICATION FOR THE CSUN COMMINUTY

COPYRIGHT © 2014 BY SCENE MAGAZINE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. SCENE MAGAZINE IS PUBLISHED BY THE CSUN JOURNALISM DEPARTMENT MIKE CURB COLLEGE OF ARTS, MEDIA, AND COMMUNICATION California State University Northridge 18111 Nordhoff Street Northridge, CA 91330-8311 | (818) 677-3135

IN T HIS ISSUE

M U SI C V E N U E S Take a chance on some of LA’s lesser known music venues.

While they may be off the beaten path, they still showcase talented acts and offer good food and drink options to keep you satisfied.

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WHEEL ED WA RRIO R S

F O O D T RU C K S

Bicycle fanatics on campus customize their bikes to fit their personality. From built-in stereos to bikes made from scratch, these students know the meaning of “do it yourself.”

Hungry for something different? Try these LA food trucks.

With choices like burgers and sushi, these mobile restaurants have an option for any picky palate.

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THE WEEK EN D GU ID E

T H E N-WO RD

K E E PI N G T H E FA I T H

Switch up your weekend plans.

Take a hike at a scenic route, find bargains at a flea market, or indulge in some gourmet crepes and tea at a local farmers market.

We take a look at the N-word, its history and its use today.

Some claim it as a term of endearment. Others have reservations about its casual use in music and everyday lingo.

Students reflect on what it means to be devout.

They discuss what it means to adapt Judaism, Christianity, Islam and Buddhism to a college lifestyle.

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STAFF JONATHAN R. DIAZ WHITNEY SHEPARD MELODY CHERCHIAN JENNIFER LUXTON NEELOFER LODHY CHAMPAIGN WILLIAMS DAVID J. HAWKINS TREVOR STAMP DAVID J. HAWKINS TREVOR STAMP KRISTINE DELICANA

EDITOR IN CHIEF EXECUTIVE EDITOR MANAGING EDITOR ART DIRECTOR COPY EDITORS COVER PHOTO BACK PHOTO CONTRIBUTORS

RISA AKITA, AJWA ALJOUDI LISA ANDERSON ANNE CHRISTIANSEN, DIANA CRUZ NEGIN DANESHFAR ASTRID DELGADO MICHELLE DOMINGUEZ JULIO HUERTA, HANNAH LUNA GABRIELA RODRIGUEZ EMY SOSA EZRA SHAPIRO

STAFF

ADVISOR

CSUN’s wheeled warriors T H R E E S T U D E N T S S H A R E TH EI R C U S T O M B I K E MO D I F I C AT I ON S STORY BY MICHELLE DOMINGUEZ, JENNIFER LUXTON & WHITNEY SHEPARD

one of the picture-perfect representations of sustainable living to which we’ve become accustomed. These two-wheeled contraptions allow people to travel miles, as opposed to yards on foot.

However, for many cycling enthusiasts, bikes do more than get you from point A to point B. They become an extension of the rider, and are cared for preciously. Similar to a car, a bike can be modified to fit its owner’s needs.

Today, cyclists have pushed the limits and transformed bikes into mobile, practical works of art.

The “tricked out” bike has revolutionized the meaning of transportation by allowing enthusiasts to pour their hearts and souls into their machines and hold sidewalk conversations with the people who appreciate them. Three students share their trials and tribulations in transforming their rides.

B IK E S A RE

BY M IC H E LLE DO M IN GUE Z

has treasured bikes since his early teens when he worked as a bicycle mechanic at his high school. There, he honed his skills until transferring to CSUN with his sights on becoming an engineer in designing bicycle componentry.

D’Alfonso began modifying his bike when he noticed a need for certain utilities his ride simply didn’t have.

“I realized that I needed a rear rack and I wanted it to be designed (a certain way) for (a certain) bag, so it was more personal, just to make my life a little bit easier,” D’Alfonso said.

DE N N IS D’A LF O N S O

P H O T O B Y D AV I D J . H AW K I N S

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SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

Dennis D’Alfonso designs his own bikes, including the rack that sits above the rear wheel made to hold his bags.

D’Alfonso plans to take a full tour of the US sometime this year. Photo by Trevor Stamp

However, he didn’t limit his modifications to his own needs. Making sure he stays on top of the bicycle industry, D’Alfonso keeps current by adding the latest innovations to his bike and checking out other people’s modifications. Although he doesn’t mass produce bikes for others, he did dabble in selling foot plates for unicycles online, but stopped due to his lack of free time.

Though D’Alfonso’s collection of “tricked out” bikes are a handful, there is one modification on his current bike that resonates on a personal level. “(On) the rear rack on my bike, I hand engraved my last name into the top wood platform. The font comes from my great grandmother who created it in the twenties for the Delphine Sons Architecture business and that’s something I’m most proud of,” D’Alfonso said.

D’Alfonso firmly believes every cyclist eventually tries to identify themselves with their bikes at one point. The need to take care of their commuter vehicles feeds the need to modify them.

“A lot of bikes are very much similar, color and shape-wise. They’re all the same diamond shape frame, but it’s always fun to add the flare, and that happens because you feel connected to that bike and you appreciate its existence in your life,” D’Alfonso said.

D’Alfonso currently does not sell his creations to other bikers who are interested.

Instead, he prefers to spend his free time working on new ideas.

His next bike, which has taken two years to complete, is destined for a full tour of the United States.

“This bike will be even more tricked out. I’m designing racks that will carry the bags that will hold all my clothing to tour from Vancouver to the Mexican border and also around the US.” With his meticulous nature, D’Alfonso welcomes any chance to reinvent a bicycle and hopes to follow the same path for a very long time.

“I’m giving back to the parts that are going under wear, tear and fatigue by re-greasing them, overhauling them and adjusting them to make sure that their longevity is as long as possible,” D’Alfonso said.

“This bike will outlive me for sure.”

phones in both ears. California law prohibits driving any kind of vehicle without at least one ear free.

While he wasn’t ticketed, Khaze, 24, was prompted to investigate other ways to keep his music on the road.

“I’m a CTVA radio major and on top of that I do audio engineering, so having only one ear with sound coming into it would drive me nuts,” he said.

Khaze has since designed and built three models of mobile speakers. The first was made out of a craft box and old PC speakers that hooked up to his smartphone on the handlebars.

“It took me about a day and a half for those, mostly because by that time I’d already had experience with electronics,” he said.

A run-in with a Mustang put the first prototype out of commission, so he gutted another set of computer speakers to replace them.

“I kept those for two or three months until it was really eating me away that the speakers were not as good as the old ones. I knew I had to make an upgrade, which is when I started doing research and designing this,” he said, gesturing to his latest model, a full-sized set of car speakers tucked neatly into a toolbox.

Khaze began planning for the build last January with help from his mechanic to wire two vintage Cadillac speakers to a car stereo that reads commands from his phone.

He developed a simple app just for the setup that allows him to control the music from his fingertips. He also installed a set of light-emitting diode (LED) turn signals to safely signal to cars using an Arduino, a simple micro-

BY J EN N I F E R LUX T O N K H A Z E ’S adventures in serious bike customization started after a run-in with the law. Two and a half years ago, he was pulled over by police for riding with headVI C TOR

Victor Khaze, a CTVA major, customized his bike with a DIY mobile sound system, which sits above his rear wheel. Photo by Trevor Stamp

SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

controller. Everything is powered by a plug-in scooter battery.

“The Arduino was my first forray into programing with a purpose,” Khaze said.

His sound-system sits above the rear wheel behind his bike seat.

Weighing about 25 pounds, its sound can be heard from across the CSUN quad. To avoid another potential ticket, Khaze had the police department test it to make sure it didn’t break any noise laws.

“A police officer came out and said, ‘Alright, let’s see what this thing can do,’ so I put on some Skrillex and cranked it as loud as it could possibly go,” Khaze said. “He said, ‘Nah, this is okay, just be careful around residential areas, but otherwise, you should be fine.’”

Although he had several of the components before he started, Khaze said a from-scratch build would probably cost somewhere around $200.

Everything down to the wire connectors had to be carefully selected for the wear and tear that comes with a stereo being strapped to a bike.

“People generally think it’s pretty cool and they like it,” he said. “I found a thread about me and my stereo on some ‘CSUN Secret Admirer’ page that was like, ‘Have you seen the guy with the bike? He’s so cool!’”

The bearded DIY-er has been biking since he was 10 years old and living in Rhode Island.

“My bike has always been a hobby of mine. When you use something to get everywhere and it’s a literal representation of your freedom, it’s something you get attached to,” he said.

Khaze is a member of the on-campus bike collective and hopes to continue to build on his system. He’s even been asked to work on other people’s bikes, and has considered taking the model to market.

“One of the reasons why I made this thing so loud, apart from the police officer thing, was that the world’s just too quiet,” Khaze said. “Everyone’s walking around with headphones in their ears and no one’s talking to each other. I think this is one thing that brings people together.”

Marco Gramajo, a member of the CSUN Bike Collective, made his custom Cinelli bicycle from scratch, spending $1300 modifying it. Photo by David J. Hawkins

BY WH I TN EY S H E PA RD TO M A RCO G RA M A JO ,

his bike is more than just a form of transportation. It is his passion, his creation.

Some people call it a “fixie,” he calls it a track bike.

“I built my bike, every part on there I hand chose and tried out,” Gramajo said. “I’ve gone through trials and errors (with) every little bit of my bike. Maybe I’ll get a new part, I’ll try it out and don’t like it, I’ll sell it and buy another part. When I say it’s my own creation, I built this bike specifically for myself. The way it is, is the way I love it.”

Everything on his current creation, from his steel frame to his spokes, started as separate parts. Gramajo individually identified 10 major components that he hand-assembled, much less the nuts and bolts too small to count.

Gramajo, a 20-year-old junior at CSUN currently majoring in civil engineering with hopes to change to psychology. He’s been cycling for nearly two years and spent a good sum of money creating his bike.

“It makes me cry everytime I think about it ‘cause I’m pretty sure I put in more than $1200 to $1300,” Gramajo said. “It sounds like a lot, and it still does to me, but I always ask my friends, ‘How much did you spend on gas this week, or how much was your insurance this month?’

and I think after two or three months that actually added up to how much my bike was.”

“I could have bought a car with that money, then I’d still be having to put money into it. I love cycling. It’s a passion. When you have a passion, if you have money available to you and you don’t have to pay bills or anything like that, then it shouldn’t be a problem.”

Gramajo bought his first bike, which he described as terrible, off the street for $140. After it was stolen, he put together a bike as quickly as he could.

This was the beginning of his creation — something that fits him perfectly.

He had fallen in love.

Gramajo is the vice president of the CSUN Bicycle Collective on campus where he holds the responsibilities of making sure they have permits for their weekly Friday night rides. He leads the rides every now and then, choosing the destination and route, often winging it along the way.

Though he’s not quite sure why those who participate in the cycling community choose to ride at night, he admits that this is his favorite time to cruise through the city.

“I think honestly, I love riding in LA at night because of all the buildings and all the lights,” he said. “I have a front light that is 500 lumens, so I can see in front of me, everything. I think it’s safer because there’s a lot less traffic and a lot less people.”

Gramajo does not plan on getting a car until he’s settled with a career, so that he doesn’t put the burden of gas or insurance on his parents.

“Even if I have a car, I will always still be biking. As much as possible,” Gramajo said. “You can’t meet people driving to school on the streets. I can.”

Gramajo said this is how he makes friends.

“They say, ‘hey nice bike’, I’m like ‘hey thanks, man.’ Strike up a conversation, bam (you’re) like best friends or something,” he said. “I feel like having a bike you’re so much more exposed to everything around you, and having a car kind of desensitizes you from the world.”

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SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

Weekend Guide: Hike, Shop, Eat

AC T I V I T I E S YOU W I LL WA N T T O LEAV E T H E H O U S E F OR T H I S W EEK EN D

STORY BY EMY SOSA, GABRIELA RODRIGUEZ & MELODY CHERCHIAN

Hiking at Rocky Peak

BY EMY SOSA

the San Fernando Valley and Simi Valley, people come to Rocky Peak Park because of its localition and the scenic view of the city.

There are two main trails that equal a total of five miles for this hike: the Rocky Peak Trail and the Hummingbird Trail, where one can climb boulders and even see a few caves.

Wildlife varies on the trail from rabbits and rattlesnakes, to spiders, lizards and red ants.

Civil engineering student Kaylen Abowzid, 21, has made Rocky Peak her new favorite outdoor hiking spot.

“Rocky Peak has beautiful scenery and I like the great workout you gain from it because of the steep hills. I feel like I get more of a workout (here) rather than doing an indoor workout,” Abowzid said.

Sociology student, Kiara IN B ET W E E N

Vasquez, 22, started hiking at Rocky Peak because she prefers outdoor hiking to working out indoors and wanted to lose weight.

“I began hiking about six months ago and I found I can spend quality time with my friends while getting a work out,” Abowzid said.

There is loose dirt on the ground and rock climbing involved on this hike. Therefore it is important to take shoes that have good grip. On days when the sun is out remember to bring lots of water.

“I’ve had a few friends that always slip or fall. They don’t get hurt badly but we do get a good laugh,” Abowzid said.

It takes about 10 minutes to get to Rocky Peak Park from Northridge. There are two main entrances to the park. Limited parking is available right by the entrance on Rocky Peak Road but you can also park on Santa Susana Road.

The Rocky Peak Park located in the San Fernando Valley and Simi Valley, is great for those looking to get in a private weekend workout which includes two hiking trails. Photo by Emy Sosa

The Rosebowl Flea Market invites thrifters and antique collectors to choose from a selection of over 2,500 different vendors. Photo by Gabriela Rodriguez

Pasadena Flea Market

BY GA B RIE L A RO DRIGUE Z T H E RO S E B OW L F LE A M A RK E T is a public open-air

from $35 to $250.

Antique Plus, located in Row L, has antique household fixtures such as antique keys and jewelry.

Shoppers can purchase vintage style glasses for a bargain deal at Spectacle Shoppe, located on Row P.

market that has been open for 45 years.

Unique finds include vintage clothing (such as denim and dresses), antiques that range from appliances to furniture and Here are some first-timer other decorative pieces. tips for a better shopping The Rose Bowl Flea Market experience: is more than just a place to find things that you wouldn’t norBring cash with you as ATM mally find on an everyday basis fees might be expensive. said Beverly Mendoza, a regular Arrive at the flea market earshopper. ly for good parking and to “Flea markets are, in a way, a find a variety of items. chance to be involved and enBring food or drinks or eat gaged within the community,” beforehand so you can have Mendoza said. more time to shop around.

With more than 2,500 venDress comfortably and dors, it is estimated that about wear sunscreen as you’ll be 20,000 buyers attend. walking around for a while.

Depending on whether you Head toward the back to are looking for new merchanfind better deals. dise, vintage items, art pieces or Bring a truck if you think articles of clothing, prices range you might buy larger items.

SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

Farmers Market at the Grove

BY M ELODY C H E RC H IA N

in July 1934, when 18 farmers and merchants parked their trucks on a vacant lot at 3rd Street and Fairfax Avenue to sell produce. Fast-forward a couple decades and it became the spot for celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe and the Beatles.

By 1980, the Farmers Market was composed of more than 120 shops, produce stands and restaurants.

With increasing popularity, Los Angeles City Council declared Farmers Market a historical monument in 1991, leading to what it has become now.

Today, the original Farmers Market offers anything from baked goods and produce to specialty ingredients and gourmet dining. Here are two that deserve the spotlight.

I T A L L S TA RT E D

THE FRENCH CREPE CAFE CO. STALL 318 Highlighted by LA Weekly and The Examiner as one of the best dining spots, the French Crepe Cafe specializes in crepes ranging from savory to sweet. But the list doesn’t end there. This spot serves waffles, soup, coffee, salads and sandwiches.

With rather reasonable prices, the French Crepe Cafe is a great breakfast or brunch spot for any person. If you have a sweet tooth, try the “La Chez Moi” filled with nutella. For those who crave savory treats, try the “L’opera” made with two scrambled eggs, swiss cheese, avocado, onions and fresh tomatoes. Sweet crepes range from $5 to $10 while savory options are from $10 to $12.

T (TEA SHOPPE) STALL 212 This vendor is known for its plentiful and gourmet tea selections from around the world, including Ceylon, India and China. In addition to traditional tea options like Assam black tea and Chai, the store has jars filled with chrysanthemums, rose buds, and chamomile.

Teas are sold per ounce, ranging from $2 to $8. Each ounce is good for four to six cups of tea. Aside from selling tea blends, the vendor sells Boba tea, also known as milky tea, a widely popular tea-based drink with tapioca

Top left and bottom right: the T Shoppe offers a variety of loose leaf blends for both refined pallettes and casual tea drinkers alike.

Bottom left: The French Crepe Cafe serves everything from waffles to savory and sweet crepes. Photo by Neelofer Lodhy

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THE D R O W N THE AN ALY SIS OF A TABO O TERM N OW REDE FINE D, BUT S TILL RES TRICT ED BY RACE STORY BY ASTRID DELGAD O, WHITNEY SHEPARD, LIS A ANDERSON, & DIANA CRUZ

SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

W H AT ’ S I N A WELL THAT DE PEN D S .

It can be a word of little significance, or one loaded with meaning. The latter is the case of the “n-word.” On NPR’s “Code Switch,” host Gene Demby succinctly summed up the current status of the word saying, “There are no rules. Only contexts and consequences.”

A word that began as a neutral term became corrupted through our nation’s history of slavery and cruelty toward those with a dark complexion.

In the same way, it seems that society and popular culture are once again changing its meaning and impact back to something positive, or at least neutral.

Ryan White, an African-American UCLA graduate and current student at Cal State San Bernardino said, “It’s not (acceptable) but it is – you know? I

The n-word I feel is one of the most offensive words in English language, used to talk down on an entire race full of what I believe are intellectual and talented people.”

—ES TEB A N F LORES , I PH I LOS OPH Y A N D M ATA M OS K A

I cringe every time I hear somebody not black say ‘nigga’ you know, especially a white person and even maybe an Asian person. Just because, you know, it’s not theirs to say, to be real.”

—DA N IE L M O RGA N, R APPE R

mean, everyone else is saying it.”

This has led to a confusion among our youth because the word seems to be increasingly used in popular media. But not all are in favor of its use.

Take for example, Esteban Flores, 21, of the indie and ska bands iPhilosophy and Matamoska, who has some strong feelings regarding the word.

“The n-word I feel is one of the most offensive words in English language, used to talk down to an entire race full of what I believe are intellectual and talented people...In modern society the word “nigga” is used as a replacement term for a friend, associate or close family...I think using this example, society adopted the term to modern slang.”

While he did not state that people should or shouldn’t use the word, he had a clear cut view on its use in music.

“In popular music, I feel like it’s wrong. Radio censorship has been lenient on that word over the years and it shows children that it’s ok to say ignorant terms openly. It lowers all in all intelligence and diminishes our ability to speak intellectually as I believe we should.”

San Francisco rapper Daniel Morgan, who goes by the stage name D.E.O. (Doing Everything Official), chooses to use the n-word, but acknowledges that it is a very complex situation. While he admits the word should not be used, he explained who he feels is allowed to use it, who shouldn’t use it, and what people can do to eventually eliminate it from America’s vocabulary.

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I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y K R I S T I N E D E L I C A N A

“Black people use (the n-word) on a regular basis (but) I don’t think they really give it any meaning. A black person would never use the word ‘nigga’ as a derogatory term toward another black person so it’s not a derogatory term coming from our people. I feel like me personally, I use it out of habit.”

Morgan however does have an issue with other races using the word. “I cringe every time I hear somebody not black say ‘nigga’ you know, especially

Honestly, in rap music I don’t think we can ever get rid of the word, but I think the smarter rappers who rap with substance (can) use the word. They just need to be conscious of how they’re using it, where they’re using it, and what context (they use it in).”

—DA N EI L M ORG A N, R A P P ER

I feel like me personally, I use it out of habit.”

—DA N IE L M O RGA N, RAPPE R

a white person and even maybe an Asian person. Just because, you know, it’s not theirs to say, to be real. But again at this point it’s like who’s policing it?”

Morgan also shared how he feels about hip hop artists using the word in their music, considering that hip hop is so mainstream now. “Honestly, in rap music I don’t think we can ever get rid of the word, but I think the smarter rappers who rap with substance (can) use the word. They just need to be conscious of how they’re using it, where they’re using it, and what context (they use it in).”

CSUN student Danay Bradley said that while some of her family members use the word, she chooses not to.

“I had a friend in the past who greeted me with ‘my nigga’ and I looked at her and told her to never say that to me again because it was offensive to me. I don’t find the word positive at all. Whether the ending is different or not the word ‘nigga’ would not be nothing without the word ‘nigger.’ In my opinion both words are derogatory and mean ‘ignorant.’”

Despite her feelings toward the word, Bradley understands the change of meaning. Today the tendency is to use the word as a term of endearment, not hatred towards another individual.

However, Bradley also pointed out that even with the use of it as a reference to friendship, people still use it maliciously when they want to talk badly about one another. She feels people could find better ways to address their friends.

“Now someone could say ‘brotha’ or ‘sista, instead of brother and sister, and usually if those words end with an ‘a’ it means that you’re close with

SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

Whether the ending is different or not the word ‘nigga’ would not be nothing without the word ‘nigger.’

THE HISTORY

OF THE WORD

— DAN AY B R A D L EY, S TU D EN T

that person or they’re your friend; someone you can strongly relate to.”

Though the adoption of the term “nigga” is being used as a term of endearment, this could potentially complicate the meaning as a whole.

There’s no doubt the n-word is controversial, whether it’s being accepting of the word, completely against it, or somewhere in between. Popular culture has complicated the debate even more with rappers and filmmakers using it more and more openly, but failing to acknowledge­the stigma the word has held for so long.

There may be those who are ready to move on from the negative context of the word and redefine it for their culture, but others are not so keen to accept this notion.

In addressing those who are trying to get rid of the word, White revealed he is actually not too attached to it. Yet when asked if there was a big movement to stop the use of the word, he said, “Yeah. I would (stop) if more people decided to stand together like that. That’s a good idea.”

So why does he continue to use the word?

“I don’t know. I think it’s because everyone else uses it. That’s the problem, see. I’m part of the problem,” he said through laughter.

Morgan offers a solution to this problem by saying that those who are against the word should begin a movement within their community. He feels that the adults should explain where they are coming from, and allow that to sit with the youth instead of attacking their use of the word.

This way the younger generation can come to their own informed decisions on whether or not to use the word while understanding the generational gap.

“No one should use the word,” White said.

“They’re absolutely right. But you can’t expect it to just stop out of nowhere. It’s not going to be an overnight thing.”

1920s

W.E.B. Du Bois pushed to make the switch from ‘colored’ to ‘negro.’

1940s

‘Negro’ is now commonly spelled with a capital ‘n.’

1966

Stokely Carmichael coins the phrase “black power” during a speech at a rally in Mississippi, this sparks the decline of the word ‘Negro.’

1968

According to a Newsweek poll, more than ⅔ of black people still prefer the word ‘Negro,’ but ‘Black’ becomes preferred by the majority by 1974.

1970s

The Associated Press and the New York Times stop using the word ‘Negro.’

1976s

Black History Month replaces Negro History Week.

1980s

Negro is socially unacceptable, US Supreme Court stops using the word ‘Negro.’

1988

Jesse Jackson says during a news conference in Chicago that Blacks prefer the term ‘African American.’

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SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

LA Music Venues You May Not Know STORY BY DIANA CRUZ, MICHELLE DOMINGUEZ, EMY SOSA, RISA AKITA, NEGIN DANESHFAR & NEELOFER LODHY LOS ANGELES is a playground for musicians and artists alike. With its wide array of well-known music venues such as the Hollywood Bowl, the Palladium and the Roxy, there are still many music venues hidden within the crevices of LA that most people aren’t aware of. Here’s a list of music venues to attend if you want to break away from your regular go-to nightspots.

La Cita has evolved into a venue with an ecletic mix of music seven days a week. Photo by Diana Cruz

L A CITA BAR

LO C AT E D IN the heart

of downtown Los Angeles 336 S. Hill St. and accessible Downtown Los by public Angeles, CA transportation, La 90013 Cita is a traditional Mexican bar by day and a party bar

BY DIA N A at night. The bar CRU Z is lit red, and the bartenders appear as if they are dark silhouettes running back and forth from customer to customer.

Simpson Lopez a regular at La Cita says, “They have an eclectic mixture of music, including punk, reggae, some dancehall and 80s! The vibe here is a wave of hipsters and some punkers.”

Lopez plays for a ska band, called The 5th Valley, and attends their Punky Reggae Party on Friday nights.

For a night on the town with cheap drinks and great music, La Cita is a good place to take a group, or roll solo. They have a large patio with a bar where you can smoke, and take a quick break from the dance floor.

Mondays consist of Mustache Mondays, a straight-friendly dance party, featuring resident DJs Josh Peace and Total Freedom.

Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays include an array of different live bands and DJs. Friday events of course feature Punky Reggae Party and Dub Club, spinning the best of punk rock, reggae, dub and 60s. Sundays kick off with Sunday Bloody Sunday, where you build your own Bloody Mary and follow up with Reggae Love, enjoy an evening of pure reggae and dancehall.

THE C.I.A.

T H E C ALIFO RN IA IN S TITU TE O F A B N O RMAL A RT S (C.I.A.)

has been a guarded secret among North Hollywood residents for many years. Since its creation in 1994, the C.I.A. has been the current mecca for

BY M IC HE LLE underground circus entertainment.

DO M ING UE Z This hole in the wall is hidden from public view behind a wooden gate decorated with a creepy smiling clown. Inside, the venue encompasses a combination of unnatural oddities. Walls are covered with ticking time bombs, decomposed circus clowns and mummified corpses.

Apart from featuring local bands, this institute triples as a museum, circus and magic show.

Each night the C.I.A. presents stage acts with modern day freaks like the fire eater Vincent Wolf and the accordion playing vampire Count Smokula.

The club’s creator, Carl Crew, also known as the “Barnum of Burbank Blvd.,” is a filmmaker and creative artist. His ongoing interest in all things abnormal pushed him to create the C.I.A. and transform it into a safe haven for the freaks of the world.

“We’ve been developing to a place where all the freak shows who come through town can play here,” Crew said. “There’s still mystery in the circus side show and that’s why I’m so attracted to it.”

With its doors open seven days a week, visitors can spend a night frolicking with the unusual.

11334 Burbank Blvd.

North Hollywood, CA 91601 All ages

SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

AVALON H OL LYWOO D

ANYONE LOOKING F OR A TAST E of elec-

tronic dance music (EDM) or to bond 1735 Vine St. with their EDM family on peace, Hollywood, CA love, unity and 90028 respect can enjoy a night at Avalon in Control Fridays Hollywood.

19+ The venue hosts Avaland Satura series of events days 21+ such as Control FriTigerheat Thurs- days, which caters days 18+ to club-goers. The School Night event consists of Mondays 18+ an electronic music night where guests

BY E M Y SO S A 19-years-old and older can hear the sounds of some of the best electronic dance music DJs around the world.

“I believe what we do here is amazing. We started with nothing and built the Control brand over the last five years,” said Ryan Jaso, co-founder of Control Friday.

The most recent large scale event held at Avalon, was for electronic dance featuring Los Angeles music artist Morgan Page.

“It is a special night, not only for Control but for Avalon to have Morgan Page here for two nights especially since he’s from Los Angeles,” Jaso said.

Dada Life, a worldwide EDM duo artist, started at Avalon along with artists like Bingo Players and Skrillex.

“In Los Angeles, we started a club of us. We built a reputation with dance music, good artists. A lot of artists cut their teeth here,” Jaso said.

Avalon is the club to go to in Los Angeles for EDM because it sets itself apart from all the other clubs by providing musical talent most nights.

“All clubs book headliners. We provide rising artists an opportunity,” Jaso said. “It is one of those things that sets us apart from other clubs.”

From top: The CIA, photo by Michelle Dominguez, The Smell, photo by Risa Akita and Avalon Hollywood, photo by Emy Sosa

THE S ME L L

“ W E RE ALLY T RY to focus on

the music and art, and also we 247 S Main are building a Street community and Los Angeles, CA breaking down the 90012 separation between the artists and the audience,” said Jim

BY R IS A Smith, owner of A K ITA The Smell.

Started by Smith in North Hollywood, The Smell has been a place of do it yourself spirited music and art performance for the local community.

The Smell is an all-ages venue, but if you’re looking to have a drink and a smoke, you’re out of luck.

“We are no alcohol not just because it’s all ages, but also because we just feel that it just detracts from the music and the art,” Smith said.

Surrounded by red bricks, the outside and inside of The Smell verify that they are truly driven by DIY spirits and artistic sparks. The front gate covered with graffiti and stickers leads to the space inside which is full of inspiration and creation.

The walls are decorated with works of art, graphic paintings and photographs. A bookcase at the front room has a selection of books and magazines donated by the community.

Couches and chairs in different shapes and colors are randomly arranged.

The bathroom, marked with vivid graffiti and posters, gives the illusion that the toilet bowl and sink are part of the artwork.

The Smell’s shows vary from punk rock to hip-hop, and art events by local dancers and performance artists.

“We have a stage but most of the bands prefer to play on the floor, so they are closer to the audience,” Smith said. “There is more interaction with the audience.”

Providing a space where people can exchange expression, emotion, freedom, inspiration and creativity, The Smell is a place that always welcomes something new, different and evocative.

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SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

THE W HOTEL

LOOK I N G F OR VA RI ET Y ? Music

lovers can enjoy an evening at The 6250 Hollywood Living Room inside Blvd. the W Hotel in Los Angeles, CA Hollywood. Guests 90028 must be 21-yearsold and older to enter.

BY N E GI N A red spiral stairDAN E S H FAR case, a trademark of The W leads down to the grand entrance of the Living Room where guests can indulge in books, cocktails and a late night bar menu.

The Living Room also has a stage where singers, musicians and DJs Catering to those who have their dancing shoes on, events by local DJs are held on Fridays and Saturdays.

“One of our particular DJs, who is director of music selects music from local DJ artists, who come from different parts of the world to create some audio recordings that we play throughout the hotel,” said Sabrinna Newton, executive assistant of The W Jazz fanatics can enjoy Jazz Nights on Sundays with vintage jazz and blues. Visiting artists have ranged from Stevie Wonder, to American Idol contestants, to bands like Maroon 5.

With its central location in the heart of Hollywood, The W Hotel’s Living Room, makes for an accessible destination filled with glitz and glamor.

T HE O BS E RVATO RY/ CO NS TE L L ATIO N RO O M 3503 S. Harbor Blvd., Santa Ana, CA

BY NE E LO FE R LO DHY F OR T H O S E LO O K IN G T O E NJ OY some fun outside of the Los

Angeles area, venture down to Santa Ana for a music venue that’s sure to blow your mind.

Cleverly tucked away on Harbor Boulevard, music enthusiasts are welcome to indulge in a night filled with great music, food and drinks at the Observatory and Constellation Room.

It can be tough to find, so make sure you’re using a reliable maps source to accurately guide you to the venue.

The dual room venue caters to all ages with a fully stocked bar in both rooms, as well as a concession stand located on the patio and or lobby.

What makes this site so unique and desirable, is that it’s ingeniously two different venues combined into one space, making it possible for two different artists to play at the same time.

The Observatory and Constellation room is a place for everyone with artists ranging from Snoop Dogg, to New Found Glory and even local bands from LA and Orange County.

The Constellation Room, the smaller of the two venues, provides guests with a more intimate music experience. With its smaller stage and unique wooden backdrop, attendees are able to enjoy watching their favorite artists from any spot in the room. This room is a general admission standing room space, so be sure to wear some comfy shoes!

Then we have the Observatory, which is also a general admission standing area and a larger capacity room where concert-goers can enjoy the view from anywhere on the ground floor, to the balcony up top.

The Observatory also offers seating with built in dining tables.

All guests are welcome to comfortably view their desired artist while enjoying a meal, but it is a first come first serve basis.

Parking is available on site but also limited to first come first serve, so those who wish to avoid paying $10 at the Pay to Park lot, located within walking distance of the venue, early attendance is encouraged.

With affordable ticket prices distributed from the venue and participating sites, The Observatory and The Constellation Room is a location that all music lovers should experience.

The Observatory and Constellation room, located in Santa Ana, Calif. serves as a dual room music venue.

Photo by Neelofer Lodhy

SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

S TUD E NT S ’ B E L I E FS S TRE N T H E N E D W H I L E A DA PT I N G T O CO L L E G E L I F E STORY BY LISA ANDERSON, NEGIN DANESHFAR, HANNAH LUNA & CHAMPAIGN WILLIAMS nest and going to college actually bring someone closer to their faith?

Four students share their stories on how they connected with their religious roots after coming to CSUN. CO U LD LE AVING TH E

PR ACTICING ISL A M WITH I N A CO L LE GE E NVIRONM E NT

BY C HAMPAIGN W IL L I A M S “DO YOU KNOW where Saudi Arabia is? Do you know where Iran is? Do you know where Dubai is?

Well Oman is in the middle of these three countries.”

Laila Al Shaibi’s exotic accent resonated across the table in the Oviatt Library as she tried to clearly explain where the Sultanate of Oman, her home country, is located.

With her father’s permission, the 18-year-old freshman traveled to the US more than two months ago to study biology.

“My father is more about education. In Oman, the woman doesn’t have to work (and) doesn’t have to get educated. They have to find a husband and the husband buys everything,” she said. “My dad said he doesn’t want us to be that way. He doesn’t want us to be at the mercy of a man. He wants us to be independent women.”

I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y K R I S T I N E D E L I C A N A

Keeping the faith on campus

Being the third of five siblings, Al Shaibi remembers the lessons she was taught by her father and mother regarding Islam. Though she is separated from her family, she still holds firm to her beliefs and attempts to carry on the traditions and rituals required of her as a Muslim woman.

“I’m a girl and I have to wear this scarf and here no one is wearing a scarf.

It’s a little bit different in my own country (because) everyone is wearing a scarf. I felt kind of like an outsider (here), but it’s OK now.”

Al Shaibi admitted that though she has grown used to wearing her hijab in this country, she still struggles with the task of completing five prayers a day without the adhan, an alarm in her country that signals the times for prayer.

“There’s no place to pray here.

So, if it’s time for prayer I can’t pray now. I’ll have to pray later. It’s a bit of a challenge,” Al Shaibi said. “If I were (in Oman) everyone would stop what they are doing and go to pray. But here I can’t do it. Back home we don’t have to change our clothes because the clothes we are wearing is fine. It’s a bit like what nuns wear, but we don’t come to college that way so we have to go back home and change.”

The challenge? Attempting to juggle all that encompasses both college life and religion. Al Shaibi Laila Al Shaibi shares her experience practicing her said she also finds it difficult to ad- religion while far away from her home in Oman. Photo by Champaign Williams just to the food here.

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SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

“We’re not allowed in our faith to drink (alcohol). And food, food was a big problem for (me).”

Al Shaibi said it is easier to eat only vegetarian food once she came to America, instead of searching for halaal meat slaughtered the Islamic way.

“We don’t eat pork and our chicken has to be slaughtered the Islamic way. So it was hard to adjust to the fact that we (she and her Muslim friends) can’t eat anything. We have to ask if there is wine in the food. Is this pork? Is this chicken? It was kind of hard in the beginning but now we got used to it. (We just) say I am a vegetarian and we get the vegetarian options.”

Despite the many struggles Al Shaibi has encountered these past few months, she is confident that they will make her all the more faithful to her religion.

Al Shaibi admits with joy that she is no longer prone to acts of rebellion because her parents aren’t around. Now, she serves God faithfully because she desires to, not because it is required of her.

“I think that being around other religions makes me closer to God (and) makes me have more faith. The hard stuff I was going through with the prayer and scarves (is) just for now. I think later I’ll be able to maintain my prayer and maintain my scarf.”

Al Shaibi is enjoying her freedom here at CSUN, and said her faith is stronger because of it. She plans to finish her four years here, and hopes to stay after graduation.

Smiling, Al Shaibi said, “I think I am going to stay (in America) even more. I think I am going to work here.”

FINDING B UDDHA TH RO UG H C S UN

BY L ISA ANDE RSON

was never completely foreign to Ryan Koyanagi. But although his grandparents were Buddhists, neither he or his parents were.

So some might be surprised that Koyanagi became the president for CSUN’s Buddhists for World Peace club.

“I saw there was a Buddhist table so I went over and talked to the people there and was really interested. I didn’t know too much about it but I had an open mind,” he said.

In the beginning of college, he said that his priorities were like those of many other young freshman – partying and having fun. He described himself as “pretty atheist” at the time and not fond of organized religion.

Koyanagi, a senior majoring in CTVA and now 22, said part of what he enjoys about Buddhism is that it actually forces him to go out into the community and make bonds with other Buddhist members.

“Once I started to take the Buddhist practice more seTH E IDE A OF BUDD H I S M

Ryan Koyanagi reflects on his Buddhist faith. While not raised Buddhist, being a part of the Buddhists for Peace club at CSUN helped Koyanagi reconnect with the religion of his grandparents. Photo by Champaign Williams

riously there was more balance in my life as opposed to just one thing – trying to have fun,” he said.

Every aspect of his life has been affected by Buddhism. Upon entering college, he thought he had already grown up a lot, but in retrospect, he feels he was still pretty immature.

In Buddhism, he explained, it’s important to chant, and is somewhat analogous to praying in other religions. He describes chanting as looking into a dirty mirror and sort of scrubbing it clean, granting yourself the tools to deal with whatever may come.

“I heard that chanting for the people you like and chanting for yourself is easy but chanting for people you don’t like is something that challenges you. When I heard that idea it blew my mind because being able to chant for the well-being for someone you don’t like sounds like such a strange idea for people.”

Koyanagi mentioned how chanting had helped him restore a friendship he’d lost in the past. After chanting about this friendship, Koyanagi realized that a lot of the problems they had experienced may have been just as much his own fault.

When he saw his friend recently, he apologized and explained he was young and immature. His friend agreed they had both been immature, and they left each other on a positive note.

“That was really rewarding to go back and realize I was wrong, (and) to have him acknowledge it too – that was a good experience for me.”

Koyanagi was recently appointed as the Young Men’s District Leader for his local Soka Kakkai International (SKI) group, which he has found to help him even more. The older people in that group have had a huge impact on him, he explained, which has even helped his relationship with his parents by making him less resistant to accept their advice.

“There’s some kind of unshakeable force within them. They’re not being shaken by things that would make most people curl up into a ball. I think that was an important realization, being able to look at them and not reject advice from older people.”

SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

Koyanagi isn’t so sure he would have found Buddhism without CSUN, so he is glad he stumbled across the club. Buddhists for World Peace meets twice a month and they eagerly welcome any newcomers. You can find their schedule at facebook.com/CSUNBWP.

CHRIS TIAN BO ND S O F B RO THE RHO O D

BY NE GIN DANE S H FA R

at CSUN, 18-year-old Mark Winterlin happened to run into two students wearing Intervarsity shirts. The strangers invited him to bible study, and he didn’t know it then, but they soon became two people he now considers close friends and said helped him grow in his Christian faith.

“Just by talking to me, they got me involved in the club,” Winterlin said.

“I was attracted to the group, because they were a group of genuine and nice people.”

Since the first Intervarsity bible study he attended, Winterlin, now a 20-year-old CTVA major, has become a faithful participant in the bible studies held on campus.

“I was looking to get involved with a Christian club and Intervarsity was the first one that found me and it stuck,” Winterlin said. “There’s a bunch of different people from different backgrounds, different friends groups, different ethnicities and majors but we all come together. Some of my best friends are people I would never meet if it wasn’t for Intervarsity.”

According to Melissa Montecuollo, 26-year-old Intervarsity staff worker, 90 percent of the students involved in the organization already consider themselves Christians after they joined Intervarsity, while 10 percent convert to Christianity because of their influence.

“A lot of students come in having experienced their parent’s faith before and so what’s great about Intervarsity is it gives them a chance for it to be their own faith and their own spiritual practices,” Montecuollo said.

Winterlin says he prays two to three times a day and hopes to expand the community as a leader and teach other students about the bible. He has been a leader for two years at CSUN advising four bible studies on campus.

“Growing a lot stronger and deeper as a Christian and being a leader has really helped me grow a lot, just by leading people and helping other people with their faith has really strengthened mine,” Winterlin said.

Another student whose Christian walk was strengthened when she came to CSUN is Rachel Lackey, 21, junior art and recreation and tourism management major. Lackey is now an events coordinator for the Monday Night Fellowship team.

“It was difficult leaving the support of my family. However, I think you begin to own your own faith a little bit more than you did previously coming to college,” Lackey said.

Lackey has been attending the club for three years now and has been a Christian since elementary school.

“I think being in college you have to actively seek out your Christian faith rather than being passive,” Lackey said. “When you get to college, you’re faced with many more decisions so you have to either embrace or choose not to and that kind of confronts you, because there’s so many avenues that you can choose from.”

D URING HIS F IRS T DAY

PR AC T I C I N G J U DA I S M O R PU R S U I N G E D U C AT I O N ?

BY H A N N A H LUN A A LE X H OWA RD ,

a junior in the CTVA department, was raised in a Jewish family and now attends CSUN. He came to school associated with the Jewish faith but not as an active participant.

Recently, he has joined a Jewish fraternity which has caused him to reflect on Judaism. Will his new brothers bring him closer to his family’s faith?

H OW H A S YO UR RE LIGIO N A F F E CTE D YO UR E X P E RIE N C E IN CO LLE GE ?

“Since I have joined the Jewish frat Alpha Epsilon Phi I haven’t found it difficult for college and my religion to combine. Now other Jewish guys will surround me. I feel that I will delve deeper into my religion now because I will be with others who care about Judaism. In high school, I mostly had Mormon friends so this will be a new experience to have a support group in Judaism. I am not exactly sure how it will be because I am just joining but it will be interesting to see how it changes my feelings towards Judaism.”

H A S JUDA IS M E V E R C L A S H E D YO UR CO LLE GE E X P E RIE N C E ?

WITH

“I have had to miss class because the university does not observe Jewish holidays. It can be difficult to decide between whether the class is more important to succeed or attending to my religious practices. It isn’t like the mainstream religion.

Christian students never have to ask, ‘Should I celebrate Christmas with my family or attend class?’

As far as finding friends and socializing, I haven’t found it to be important to any of my friendships, but we will see how that changes with the frat.”

DO E S YO UR RE LIGIO US B AC KGRO U ND A F F E C T T H E DE C IS IO N S YO U M AK E IN CO LLE GE ?

“Not really. My mom wants me to date a Jewish girl but I don’t do that.”

H OW IS IT B E IN G JE W IS H A M O N G YO U R CO LLE GE P E E RS ?

“Some other faiths have been surprised that I don’t believe Jesus is Lord and Savior, but that’s about it.”

After speaking with Alex we can see that college and religion can exist in the same space, and at times one can even enhance the other.

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FOOD S K C TRU

A S A MPL I N G O F D E L I C I O US EAT S F RO M S E V E R A L L A S T R E E T S STORY BY NEELOFER LODHY, GABRIELA RODRIGUEZ, ASTRID DELGADO & AJWA ALJOUDI

put gourmet food trucks on the map. There are many areas around the city where food trucks congregate. Here is a sampling of lots, streets and areas where the best food trucks meet up.

LO S A N GE LE S

V E N I C E & S A N TA MO N I C A

BY N E E LO F E R LO DH Y

Looking for some delicious grub close to the seaside? You’re in luck! Santa Monica and Venice Beach are great locations where assorted food trucks congregate.

Every Tuesday in Santa Monica on the corner of Main Street and Ocean Park Boulevard, local Los Angeles food trucks station adjacent to the Victorian bar from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

The Victorian, known as a wedding and banquet venue, achieves its popularity with the locals with their Basement Bar. Attendees are welcome to enjoy cocktails and their tasty food truck meals at the tables located inside and outside of the Victorian.

With about 105 food truck participants, there are five to seven food trucks that come out every week.

Participating trucks include The Beignet Truck, Great American Burger, Rounds Premium Burgers, The Lobsta Truck, and Tacos El Gallito.

The uniqueness of food trucks, other than that they’re mobile, is their new and interesting take on some basic food dishes.

Some tasty items featured on their menus for Jojaski Sushi and the Burrito Truck consist of the spicy tuna nachos, the lobster burrito, and their current monthly special, the spider burrito.

If going out on a Tuesday disrupts your work-

SCENE MAGAZINE • SPRING 2014

week, First Fridays on Abbot Kinney in Venice is an alternative beacon for food truck enthusiasts to participate in.

Taking place the first Friday of every month, several food trucks compete for space in the Brig’s parking lot on the corner of Electric Avenue and Abbot Kinney, while other food trucks line the streets outside.

Some of the many trucks that fill the Brig’s parking lot include The Lobsta Truck, Dogtown Dog, Kogi Asian Fusion, and a crowd favorite, The Grilled Cheese Truck.

RO S E BOWL IN PA S A D E N A

BY GABRIE L A RODRI G U EZ

are usually parked on Hill Street and Walnut Street in Pasadena.

The Tortas 2 Die For food truck is painted a bright red color with a yellow-orange streak covering its side, making it easy to spot at a distance. When ordering food from the truck, there are six main dishes shown from the window to choose from among others.

Though Tortas 2 Die for specializes in Mexican food, it has recently gained popularity for their fusion of torta sandwiches, wraps, salads and tacos.

The most popular dish is the Maui torta, a grilled steak sandwich marinated in sesame ginger marinade, grilled pineapple, baby greens, julienne carrots, shredded cabbage, cilantro and Sriracha sauce.

Another popular dish is the Korean steak wrap filled with grilled steak, baby greens, shredded cabbage, julienne carrots, red onions, cilantro and a sesame seed ginger dressing and Sriracha sauce.

Yet, what seems to be the crowd favorite is the Baja steak, made up of grilled steak, baby greens, tomato, carrots, cucumbers and avocado all topped with a creamy tomatillo dressing and pepitas.

All of the items are less than $10 making it a go-to for all food truck junkies.

What makes Tortas 2 Die for a unique food truck among other Mexican-influencedcuisine is the torta bread is made from scratch and baked fresh daily.

Vegetarian dishes are offered and are just as popular as the torta sandwiches and tacos.

FO OD T RUCKS

19

Dogtown Dogs (left) features hot dogs with names ranging from Spicy Angeleno to Trailer Trash. This truck can be found most nights parked outside The Brig in Venice. Photos by Neelofer Lodhy

Tortas 2 Die For’s time slot accommodates those looking to grab lunch and dinner.

Lunch is served from 11 p.m. to 2 p.m., and dinner is from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Other food trucks available at the Rosebowl are Qzilla Barbeque, a Southern-style barbeque food truck and the Teriyaki Truck, which serves beef and chicken teriyaki, teriyaki burgers, salads as well as seafood dishes.

G RA N A DA H I L L S

BY A S T RID DE LGA DO

Grubfest, there is a variety of trucks to sample from.

For starters, there is the famous the Grilled Cheese Truck that serves a variety of twists on the traditional grilled cheese sandwich.

These twists range from the pretzel melt, a grilled cheese served on pretzel bread to the sweet Sriracha chicken melt, a grilled cheese served on French bread, with Chile jack cheese, toasted ramen, Asian vegetable salad and of course sweet Sriracha roasted chicken.

One can also opt for desert melts such as the s’more melt or the cheesycake melt.

If sweets are what you desire, check out the Wafl truck. These waffles range from traditional strawberries and bananas with nutella, to bacon and nutella. The Street Kitchen truck which serves a variety of gourmet style street food such as tacos, quesadillas, and other street food staples. Azteca Tacos and Rice Balls of Fire serve sushi and boba.

The Granada Hills Grubfest takes place every Friday from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the 17000 block of Chatsworth Street, between White Oak Ave and Zelzah Avenue.

AT THE GRA N A DA H ILLS

O U T S I D E L AC MA

BY A JWA A LJO UDI L AC M A ,

one of the largest art museums in the US, is not only a hotspot for tourists, but also for those who crave a little more zest with their art experience.

To get a taste of the real LACMA tour package, the food trucks located directly across the street from the museum are a must.

Looking for Mexican food? Try tasty tacos from the Taco Maniaco food truck.

The tacos al pastor, made with chicken, is one of the popular choices on the menu. Try the flavorful carnitas quesadillas which are sure to blow you away. This food truck is ready to serve every Monday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Also try the desserts offered at the Bánh in the USA food truck. The lemongrass tofu bánh mi is amazing and worthy of being their number one dish.

Crunchy-buttery bread with a choice of chicken or pork will be the best bánh ever tasted. Bánh mis and other dishes are available seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Looking for an exotic blend of foods?

Both Mexican and Mediterranean foods are available at Kabob, the fusion food truck. Kabob has an extensive menu with falafel being their best seller. The Mexi-Terranean burrito is another popular dish as well but don’t walk away without trying the refreshing cucumber and tomato salad. This truck serves Monday through Friday from noon to 3 p.m. and every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.