11-26-18 by Los Angeles Downtown News

richelle huizar ends city council bid Page 10

a holiday nutcracker lands downtown Page 11

n e e r G g n i o G

November 26, 2018 I VOL. 47 I #48

t c i r t s i D s t r A e h t in GE 8 SEE PA

photo by Gary Leonard

Greg Salmeri and Laurie Resnick recently opened Rolling Greens, a huge nursery on Mateo Street.

3 GUEST DJS SPINNING DJ ANTH ONY VA LAD E Z DJ NOVE NA CA R MÃ&#x2030; L DJ KI NG MOS T

Silent Night, Silent Disco F R I DAY, N OV. 3 0 | 6 P M T O 1 0 P M THE VOICE OF DOWNTOWN L.A. SINCE 1972

FIGat7th.com/events

2 DOWNTOWN NEWS

AROUND TOWN

Charges Filed in Skid Row Voter Fraud Case

rosecutors from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office filed charges last week against nine people for a scheme to pay individuals in Skid Row for signatures on ballot petitions and voter registration forms. The alleged voter fraud plots occurred during the 2016 and 2018 election cycles, and the defendants are accused of offering cigarettes and money — in some cases just $1 — for forged or false signatures from homeless individuals. Charges include sharing a petition filled with false names, and registering people who did not exist. The DA’s office did not specify what ballot propositions were involved. Five of the nine defendants were arraigned on Tuesday, Nov. 20. Three are facing eight counts each, with a maximum state prison sentence of six years and four months. The other six each face four counts, with a potential sentence of four years and eight months.

Grand Central Market Hosts Holiday Event

or the fifth year, Grand Central Market is getting festive. The Broadway food hall

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

is hosting its two-day holiday marketplace pop-up village on Saturday-Sunday, Dec. 1-2. It will run each day from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and various retail and culinary pop-up shops including Made by DWC and Brown Bag Books will sell gift items. Fittingly, food vendors will also serve seasonal specials such as tamales from Chiles Secos, butternut winter clam chowder from Prawn and reindeer track sundaes from McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream. The market at 317 S. Broadway will also be flush with holiday carolers and various musical acts including the jazz vocalist Teira Church and Afro Cuban ensemble Sitara Son. More information is at grandcentralmarket.com.

Demolition Begins for $1 Billion Grand Avenue Project

owntown has been waiting for developer Related Companies’ project The Grand for almost 15 years. Now, there is finally evidence that it is happening. Work crews have begun tearing down the “Tinker Toy” parking structure at the southeast corner of First Street and Grand Avenue. The structure, which has more than 1,000 spaces and is nicknamed for its resemblance to the creations fashioned out of the children’s toy, was finished in the late 1960s. It was fenced off this month after Related announced it had secured financing to start construction on the Frank Gehry-designed $1 billion project that will hold two towers with 436 residential units, a 309-room Equinox hotel and

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

215,000 square feet of commercial space. The lot had previously closed ahead of an expected groundbreaking in 2007, but The Grand was set back after the global financial collapse. The Grand is expected to open in 2021.

Downtown Women’s Center Launches Holiday Collection

he holidays are here, and Skid Row’s Downtown Women’s Center is marking the occasion by releasing an updated collection of gift sets. As with other items sold at Made by DWC, they are created by women in the process of transitioning out of homelessness. All proceeds from the sales benefit the center, which provides resources and shelter for women on Skid Row. While the majority of Made by DWC items range from apparel to bags, the holiday collection is built around greeting cards with drawings of animals or sets of candles. Options include soy candles that smell like fir trees for $34, and a ginger spice soap and candle set for $28. These and the rest of Made by DWC’s catalogue can be purchased in Downtown at 438 S. San Pedro St. and 325 S. Los Angeles St. or online at madebydwc.org.

Midnight Mission Gets $200,000 Grant

owntown service providers routinely detail the difficulty of obtaining funds. So it’s significant that Skid Row’s Midnight Mis-

Since 1969

A wide variety of suits, sport coats, formalwear, slacks, dress & sport shirts, ties, socks, belts, outerwear, and designer jeans.

7O0F%F il Reta

Voted Best Menswear Store! 729 South Los Angeles St. • 213-627-9661

USC Roski School Opens Program in Arts District

fter months of build-out, the University of Southern California’s Roski School of Art and Design has opened its new Downtown campus. The school’s two-year Masters of Fine Arts in Design program is housed in a 15,000-square-foot space in the At Mateo complex at Mateo and Palmetto streets. The Arts District space opened Nov. 16 and includes classrooms, a design studio and rooms for creating works. “Along with the launching of the MFA Design program in August, this is a day I have long awaited,” Roski School Dean Haven Lin-Kirk said in a prepared statement. The design school is one of the three anchor tenants in At Mateo, alongside food company Soylent and streaming giant Spotify.

Lorem Ipsum

SUITS THAT SHOULD BE EXPENSIVE, BUT THEY’RE NOT!

O... UP T

sion has been named a recipient of the 2018 Bank of America Neighborhood Builders award for its work helping homeless individuals. The San Pedro Street mission will receive $200,000 in unrestricted funding to expand its programs and assist formerly incarcerated and homeless individuals. In a prepared statement, Midnight Mission President and CEO Michael Arnold said, “This grant will have an incredible impact on our organization and those experiencing homelessness and struggling to make ends meet, particularly for women, youth and those identifying as LGBTQ.” In addition to the money, the mission will receive a year of leadership training for two staff members, and access to additional funding.

Boutiques

Cafes

Vintage

Restaurants & Bars

Metro Red Line to Vermont/Sunset Station

Los Feliz Village

Vermont • Hillhurst • Hollywood Blvd

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

DOWNTOWN NEWS 3

Image by Andy Chen IG:@2dollartacos

4 DOWNTOWN NEWS

EDITORIALS

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

TAKE MY PICTURE GARY LEONARD

Goodbye, Bob Baker Marionette Theater

n Friday, Nov. 23, the string pullers at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater took the stage at their City West home for the final time. The performance, a sort of greatest hits production culled from the many different shows that have been mounted there, came 55 years to the day after the theater opened in 1963. The management team at the aged First Street complex said the shows will go on, and that while productions will initially take place in a series of temporary venues (including a five-week run of Bob Baker’s Nutcracker at the Pasadena Playhouse), plans are in the works for a new permanent home. The leadership team promises that a deal and location will be announced shortly. We are pleased that this sweet, whimsical form of entertainment will live on. However, the shuttering of the puppet theater is a loss for Downtown Los Angeles. This was probably inevitable. The red-hot Downtown real estate market makes almost any low-budget entertainment aim unsustainable. The theater property was sold in 2013 to a developer who plans to build a 104-apartment complex on the site at 1345 W. First St. While Eli Elimelech said he would offer the theater a chance to lease space in the building at a discounted rate once the work is completed, the deal and timeline don’t work for the Bob Baker management team. They are moving on. This is a mixed period for the arts in Downtown. On the one hand, there has never been more popular culture available. Destinations such as The Broad, Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles and the Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles have opened, and all three offer free admission. People flock to the Central City for rock and other concerts at newer arrivals such as The Regent, the Teragram Ballroom and the Moroccan Lounge. On the other hand, some longstanding cultural purveyors are departing. Last June the community-oriented Cornerstone Theater Company vacated its home in the Arts District after nearly two decades, following a rise in rent. Two years before, another independent theater company, Loft Ensemble, left its Arts District headquarters of 10 years after its building was purchased by a developer (Loft Ensemble is now in Sherman Oaks). This is not to foment the “evil developer” trope. Los Angeles is in the midst of a severe housing crisis and desperately needs tens of thousands of new rental units at all price points. Property owners have the right to turn a profit on land they acquire (of course, they must treat tenants lawfully). Still, Downtown loses part of its cultural character when entities such as the Bob Baker theater and Cornerstone go elsewhere. In decades past these and other institutions lured people to Downtown who otherwise might not have traveled to the area. In the puppet theater’s case, some visitors later took their children and grandchildren to shows. The marionette masters had an important role in Downtown for more than a half-century, and Bob Baker’s creations won’t soon be forgotten. We wish the theater luck in its future home, wherever that may be.

Little Tokyo

Community Celebration

COMMENTS

Regarding the column “Council Schmouncil: What Mitch Englander’s Departure Says About City Hall,” by Jon Regardie I wouldn’t be so hard on Englander. I’m sure he felt like the odd man out. The council resolution endorsing Prop 10 is a case in point. Englander was the only councilman opposing it. The Los Angeles City Council has had 15 districts since 1925, although the city has grown enormously since then. So each council district currently represents about 266,666 residents, an impossibility for adequate representation. In 1925 each councilman represented approximately 60,490 people. So by the population standard of 1925, there should be four times as many council districts. I would settle for 30 total. Ironically, Tim Leiweke, Englander’s new boss, seems to concentrate on South Park and Downtown L.A., far from Englander’s district. But I guess he knows the city well enough to be a good lobbyist for his employer. —Donald Ferguson Regarding the article “The Nest Skid Row Crisis: Rising Numbers of Children,” by Nicholas Slayton Thank you printing this timely and well-documented arEDITOR: Jon Regardie STAFF WRITER: Nicholas Slayton, Sean P. Thomas CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Tom Fassbender, Jeff Favre

S I N C E 19 7 2 Los Angeles Downtown News 1264 W. First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 phone: 213-481-1448 • fax: 213-533-6990 web: DowntownNews.com • email: realpeople@downtownnews.com

facebook: L.A. Downtown News

twitter: DowntownNews

instagram: @ladowntownnews

Councilman José Huizar & Nate Hayward

ART DIRECTOR: Brian Allison ASSISTANT ART DIRECTOR: Yumi Kanegawa PHOTOGRAPHER: Gary Leonard CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING MANAGER: Catherine Holloway ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Catherine Holloway, Michael Lamb OFFICE MANAGER: Claudia Hernandez

May 19, 2018

ticle. Leading research shows that one of the key variables to breaking the cycle of homelessness is to provide sustainable housing and dependable social support. This is especially true for homeless families. They have special needs such as infant care, pre-school assistance, and the vulnerability of small children to communicable diseases. Like many in the community, I sometimes feel a certain sense of compassion fatigue when it comes to the seemly intractable issue of poverty. It is easy and sometimes understandable to shrug our collective shoulders and say the poor will always be with us. But when I looked at the face of 4-year-old Romeo Guzman on the front page, I was reminded that we can and must do everything that is within reason to help these young lives. We owe it to them and to ourselves to try to be a compassionate and caring society. —Oliver Cutshaw

Hey You! Speak Up! Downtown News wants to hear from people in the community. If you like, or dislike, a story or editorial, let us know. Or weigh in on something you feel is important to the community. Participation is easy. Post a comment online at the bottom of any story, or go to downtownnews.com, scroll to the bottom of the page, and click the “Letter to the Editor” link. For guest opinion proposals, email regardie@downtownnews.com. DISTRIBUTION MANAGER: Salvador Ingles DISTRIBUTION ASSISTANTS: Lorenzo Castillo FOUNDER EMERITUS: Sue Laris ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER: Lake Trout

VICE PRESIDENT: David Comden PRESIDENT: Bruce Bolkin

©2017 Southland Publishing, Inc. Los Angeles Downtown News is a trademark of Southland Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read newspaper for Downtown Los Angeles and is distributed every Monday throughout the offices and residences of Downtown Los Angeles. One copy per person.

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

DOWNTOWN NEWS 5

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

What You Need to Know About Typhus! To Stay Safe, Avoid Rats, Beware of Opossums and Keep Your Distance From Politicians By Jon Regardie eople have freaked out ever since the L.A. County Department of Public Health declared an outbreak of typhus in Downtown Los Angeles on Oct. 4. That has been followed by reports of clusters of the disease in other communities. Typhus is a flea-borne illness that, while rarely fatal, can be super uncomfortable, and can damage some of your favor-

THE REGARDIE REPORT ite internal organs. Though it is difficult to detect and is often misdiagnosed as other maladies, including the flu and voter fatigue, it can be treated effectively with a course of antibiotics, plenty of fluids and 26 consecutive hours of Netflix. While the outbreak has been most prevalent in Downtown, those who live and work here should not panic. Here are some things to know about the disease, as well as a few tips to surviving the Great Downtown Typhus Epidemic of 2018. n Typhus is spread by fleas that are most commonly found on rats, feral cats and opossums. But beware of dogs, too. This is not because dogs are dangerous or more frequent flea carriers, but because what you think is a stray Downtown dog may actually be one of the overgrown rats that is often seen on local streets and alleys. n If you see an opossum in Downtown, say, “I see an opossum!” This won’t stop typhus, but “opossum” is fun to say. n If you see an opossum in Downtown, it is probably not moving. This is likely because it has been squished by a car. Opossums are slow and are no match for that gray or black Prius every third Downtowner seems to own.

n Then again, the opossum may not be moving because it is playing possum. In which case, once again, you should loudly exclaim, “I see an opossum!” n Animals, including personal pets, typically do not show any sign that they are carrying typhus. You can try asking them if they feel sick, but probably will not receive an answer. You are more likely to get a response by saying, in a high voice, “Who’s a good boy/girl? You are! You are!” n The city of Los Angeles has designated a shockingly large chunk of Downtown as the “Typhus Zone.” Though it reminds one of Auto Zone, this is not in fact a place to go shopping for all of the latest and hottest typhus accessories. Instead, if you are looking for typhus gear, try the Internet, where you can design, print and sell T-shirts reading, “My family went to Downtown Los Angeles and all they got me was this stinkin’ T-shirt. They also got typhus.” n Sources within the “Typhus Zone” say one option the city is considering to combat the spread of the disease is to employ chemicals that will serve as a sort of “birth control” for rats. This is being attempted because, as with human teenagers, preaching rodent abstinence absolutely doesn’t work. n Typhus is transmitted by fleas infected with what science and health smartypants call Rickettsia typhi or Rickettsia felis. This should not be confused with Rickettsia Caruso, a condition that causes billionaire Rick Caruso to turn large swaths of land into outdoor shopping malls with fountains and trolleys where people spend all their money at H&M and an Apple Store. n Rick Caruso may run for mayor of Los Angeles in 2022. This has nothing to do with typhus, but is worth watching.

Convenience

DOWNLOAD THE APP SIGN UP TODAY!

“Now in Your Neighborhood”

RACK UP POINTS FOR THE THINGS YOU BUY EVERY DAY. REDEEM THOSE POINTS FOR FREE REWARDS. PLUS, GET A FREE DRINK OR SNACK WHEN YOU REGISTER.

At Olympic & Alameda St.

THANK YOU

EARN

points for every $1 you spend

For Making Your 7-Eleven a Huge Success!

REDEEM your points for FREE food & drink

Typhus is spread by fleas that are most commonly found on rats, feral cats and opossums. If you see an opossum in Downtown be sure to exclaim, “I see an opossum!” This won’t stop typhus, but “opossum” is fun to say.

n Speaking of politics, typhus is impervious to political posturing and press conferences where well-dressed elected officials declare how they will combat the disease. Still, welldressed politicians like to stage just such media events, because it makes the public think they are doing stuff. Just beware of what they are saying, and of any fleas they may be carrying. n Typhus cannot be spread person-to-person. However, avoid any individual, especially someone well-dressed in City Hall, who is profusely scratching. It is a little-known fact, but in addition to opossums “playing possum,” they are also sometimes found “playing politician.” n To protect your pet, health experts recommend using insect repellant and anti-flea medication. It is up to you to keep them away from political press conferences. Continued on page 10

n X I M CH T 0 A 0 Mor $4. f 5

ANY 5 GRILL VALUE MENU ITEMS, 5 FOR $4. x

+Ta

SCORE

bonus offers to get rewards even faster

Our 7-Eleven / 76 / Propane staff is here for you 24/7. We take pride in our store and it shows. Stop in and say hi, we look forward to seeing you!

ATM

ALWAYS OPEN New El Segundo Location 2161 El Segundo Blvd. 310-648-7697

OL YM

BL VD

S ALAMEDA

Amazon Lockers at both our Locations: DTLA “Chalus” & El Segundo “Sipla”

Se Habla Español

7 TH S

NTR

At Olympic & Alameda St.

S CE

1800 E. Olympic Blvd. 7 Eleven Morning Staff (above left to right): Serena Moreno, Marco Osorio, Bertha Davia and Hugo Ruiz. (right): Manuel, Propane Manager.

AL A VE

PROPANE, GAS & DIESEL 24 HOURS / 7 DAYS A WEEK

213-627-5008

K103164 - 57590 - PUMP TOPPER EXTENDER 21X13 3LRETK

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

6 DOWNTOWN NEWS

One of the best received works at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

Major Turnaround Coming to Fashion District Complex $170 Million Renovation of California Market Center Will Add Office Space and Retail Component

image by Gensler

Brookfield Properties is undertaking a $170 million overhaul of the California Market Center in the Fashion District. The work includes new windows for the three 13-story buildings.

By Nicholas Slayton ne of the biggest projects in Downtown Los Angeles, in terms of sheer size, is the transformation of the California Market Center. It aims to turn the hulking, 56-year-old complex into a modern mixed-use hub, and expand beyond its traditional tenant base of fashion showrooms by adding creative office space and extensive ground-floor retail. Although work has already begun, Brookfield Properties, which acquired a stake in the property in 2017, last week finally revealed its full plans for the project, including how it will create more than 1 million square feet of new creative office space. The project is budgeted at $170 million and is expected to take two years. The complex at 110 W. Ninth St. comprises three 13-story buildings plus a two-story structure that formerly housed a bank. The renovation is a joint venture between Brookfield and Jamison Properties, which bought the 1.8 million-square-foot California Market Center in 2004 for $135 million. Plans call for creating new open space. “With an inviting, amenity-rich and open streetscape, sweeping public space, yearround activations, and unmatched floor plates, the new CMC will draw more creative firms to the heart of DTLA while elevating the region’s existing fashion industry,” Bert Dezzutti, Western Region Executive Vice President for Brookfield Office Properties, said in a prepared statement. Perhaps the most significant change is that the fashion showrooms the center is known for will be consolidated into one structure, Building C. At its height the complex had more than 1,000 showrooms spread across the three buildings. The other two buildings will be converted into office space. Brookfield aims to attract creative tenants in the media and design industries to the new offices. The transformed California Market Center will be a distinct offering in the Fashion District, which doesn’t have office space on this scale, according to Gibran Begum, managing

SAM GREEN &A Thousand KRONOSThoughts QUARTET Fri, Dec 7 @ 8pm The Theatre at Ace Hotel cap.ucla.edu 310 825 2101

FIND YOUR FREQUENCY

@CAP_UCLA #CAPUCLA

director with the brokerage firm Newmark Knight Frank. He said Brookfield has successfully repositioned other office buildings in Downtown and expects that rents will increase as a result of the work. “It’s a unique asset in which a campus environment could work well, especially with buildings like The Bloc and Row DTLA and other campus environments starting to get more active with their lease-ups,” Begum said. The California Market Center was built in 1962 and had an immediate and dramatic impact, according to Ilse Metchek, president of the California Fashion Association and the former executive director of leasing for the center (when it was known as CalMart). The complex created a centralized space for the fashion industry. However, she added, the buildings haven’t been entirely full since the mid-1980s. That trend has picked up speed as online and direct-to-consumer clothing sales become ever more popular. “The whole business model has changed, where filling the whole building with wholesales showrooms is not a possibility anymore,” Metchek said. Downtown-based architecture firm Gensler is handling the redesign, which calls for installing energy-efficient windows, as well as adding sky bridges to connect the three buildings. There are plans for a 5,000-squarefoot rooftop amenities deck. The overhaul will also create more public space. The bank structure will be removed, opening up a 13,750-square-foot plaza. The ground floor of the complex will hold 150,000 square feet of retail space, making it one of the largest retail centers in Downtown. In addition to shops and restaurants, Brookfield intends to enliven the space with activities including concerts and special events. The California Market Center renovation is being conducted in two phases, according to Brookfield, and renovations are scheduled to wrap in 2020. nicholas@downtownnews.com

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

DOWNTOWN NEWS 7

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

Auto Show Revs Up the Convention Center More Than 1,000 Vehicles on Display at 111th Annual Event By Sean P. Thomas hile city leaders are seeking to increase bicycle- and pedestrian-friendly options in the Central City, it goes without saying that in Los Angeles, the automobile is still king. Nowhere is that more definitive than at the annual Los Angeles Auto Show. The 111th iteration of the event parks at the Los Angeles Convention Center on Friday, Nov. 30. Through Dec. 9, nearly 1 million visitors will check out more than 1,000 vehicles, including the latest trucks, SUVs and electric cars. This year’s show touts 60 debut vehicles from across the globe, including the latest Mazda3, the 2020 Toyota Corolla Hybrid and the 2019 Beetle Final Edition. In total, 39 carmakers are scheduled to participate. Hours vary, but the show generally opens at 9 a.m. and closes at 9 p.m. Tickets are $5$35 depending on day and time of admission. Alexis Evans, director of communications for the Auto Show, said that organizers this year are focused on keeping things fresh by providing as many interactive amenities as possible. More than 100,000 people are expected to attend each day. “We’re really excited to have things both for people who have never been to an auto show, and for people who are auto show

photo courtesy Los Angeles Auto Show

More than 1,000 vehicles will be on the floor of the Convention Center when the Los Angeles Auto Show returns to Downtown this week.

veterans,” Evans said. “Los Angeles is an ever-evolving city, so it’s important to keep an eye on consumer trends.” Evans predicted that one highlight will be the return of the after-market showcase “The Garage.” Spread across 160,000 square feet, it includes customized exotic vehicles and after-market goods such as chest thumping speakers and stereo equipment. West Coast Customs, which became famous for providing the custom vehicle work

Great Friends

seen in the Xzibit-led MTV show “Pimp My Ride,” will have a spot at The Garage showcasing custom cars created for Black Eyed Peas founder will.i.am, a Jeep Wrangler customized for former Major League Baseball slugger Alex Rodriguez and a Mercedes SLS made for rapper Post Malone. “People love customized cars,” Evans said. “That just goes back to Los Angeles culture. Customized cars are a big deal here.” Attendees will also have opportunities to

try out some of the latest vehicles. That includes options from Alfa Romeo. The Italian luxury carmaker, whose emblem is often seen on the sides of high-powered Formula 1 vehicles, is offering test drives for six of its upcoming models, including the new luxury SUV the Stelvio Quadrifoglio. While some people will gravitate toward the exhibits highlighting the future of the automotive industry, others will be drawn to interactive elements such as the Amazon Gaming Lounge. Offerings here include a chance to play the Grand Tour Game, a video game based on the Amazon Prime Video television show “The Grand Tour.” Other highlights run the gamut, from the old to the brand new. The Bullitt Mustang, a 1968 Mustang GT Fastback famously seen flying around the hilly San Francisco streets in the film Bullitt, will be on display. Meanwhile, Galpin’s Hall of Customs features the Ford Raptor S and a 2019 Aston Martin DBS. As in years past, the 2018 Auto Show will drive into the world of Hollywood. A lifesized model of the mute Transformer Bumblebee, set to appear in a film of the same name in December, will be on display. Despite all the opportunities to oooh and aaah, there are practical applications, too. Evans said that the Convention Center floor will be flush with people taking notes in preparation for their next big car purchase. In that case, forget the Bumblebee. The L.A. Auto Show runs Saturday, Nov. 30Dec. 9 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa St. or laautoshow.com. sean@downtownnews.com

Great Times

The Fair Oaks by Regency Park Regency Park Oak Knoll

(626) 204-1700

Regency Park Astoria

(626) 578-1551 Memory Care

Independent and Assisted Living

(626) 796-4303

Lic. 197604266

Lic. 191200037

Assisted Living and Memory Care Lic. 197607820

www.RegencyPk.com

facebook.com/RegencyParkSeniorLiving

8 DOWNTOWN NEWS

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

Going Green in the Arts District Two-Acre Rolling Greens Brings Plants, Pots and Outdoor Furniture to a Gritty Corner of Downtown By Nicholas Slayton ne of Downtown Los Angeles’ newest businesses is something of an oddity. Rolling Greens is a kind of urban garden, but is built out of a former scrap metal yard. It stocks thousands of plants, pots and pieces of outdoor furniture in a heavily industrial part of the Arts District not far from the 10 Freeway. The two-acre home and garden emporium opened on Nov. 3 at 1005 Mateo St. It is Rolling Greens’ third location in the greater Los Angeles region and the first in Downtown. The store is opening in two phases; the second, with expanded floral offerings and event space, debuts early next year. Rolling Greens has dabbled in Downtown before, providing plants and decor for various businesses and buildings. Additionally, there was a temporary location at the Row DTLA complex at Seventh and Alameda streets in late 2016 as part of the campus’ pop-up holiday market. Co-owner Greg Salmeri, who lives in the Historic Core, said he and business partner Laurie Resnick had been considering opening a Downtown branch of the store for years, due to the booming residential population. “Eventually the opportunity came for the space, and we decided we wanted to make the move. We believe in Downtown,” Salmeri said. “And we love scrap metal yards. Those kind of things are perfect for us.” The site had previously housed CDL Scrap Metals. The lease was announced in March 2017, and the Rolling Greens team cleared out the old metal and other material and converted the two existing buildings into commercial spaces for furniture and flora. The centerpiece of the complex is a 20,000-square-foot greenhouse. The high-ceilinged space holds rows of ferns,

Greg Salmeri and Laurie Resnick chose a former scrap metal yard on Mateo Street as the third location of Rolling Greens. They aim to capitalize on the growing Downtown residential population and serve the community’s numerous businesses.

photo by Gary Leonard

Gift yourself!

OM / R F 75 * ,9 $2 NTH MO

Finance a new car with WPCCU New and used cars, same low rate

1.99

as low as

APR*

Plus, if you purchase your vehicle through our partner Autoland you get an additional 0.25% APR discount!**

SCAN ME Limited time only! Ask us about today’s rates.

800-300-9728 wpccu.org @wpccu

APR = Annual Percentage Rate. Rate shown as of 11/1/18 is for a 36-month term and for qualified members with up to 125% financing. Actual rates may vary based on member’s credit score and ability to pay. Projected payments are for example only and are not inclusive of all fees and costs. Representative example: A $20,000 new car loan financed at 1.99% APR for 36 months would result in 36 payments of $572.78. Rates subject to change without notice. Other rates and terms available. Ask us for details. ** 0.25% APR loan discount valid 10/1/18 - 12/31/18. To qualify, purchase a new or used car through Autoland and finance it at WPCCU. *

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

DOWNTOWN NEWS 9

photo by Gary Leonard

The nursery in the Arts District carries an array of plants, from large ferns and succulents to colorful fronds.

palms and colorful plants. Across a courtyard in another building is a 15,000-squarefoot furniture showroom stocked with tables made of reclaimed wood, gleaming white bowls and pots, and an arrangement bar, where customers can get their flowers and greenery organized into bouquets. Salmeri and Resnick launched Rolling Greens in Culver City 17 years ago. While Downtown had few residents then, the owners said that there is now a strong local market for a nursery. This is the case even though the community lacks lawns and personal outdoor entertainment areas — many people in Downtown are looking to add greenery to lofts and apartments, or fill balconies, said Salmeri and Resnick. “For one thing, plants are back,” Resnick said. “We started in 2001, and then plants were all the rage; you couldn’t have too many plants in your house. Then over the years that went away. It was costly and people were into the minimal, stark look. But now we’re over that. We do a lot of work with commercial buildings and they all are trying to get rid of that minimal set up.” More Than Sales The greenery stock in the Downtown Rolling Greens is similar to what is for sale in the Culver City or Fairfax spaces. Resnick said the plants will change depending on tastes in the market. Right now, she added, big, leafy plants are coming back. She also said people are into greenery that was popular when the Mid-Century Modern look was in vogue, meaning ample sales of birds of paradise and split leaf philodendron.

The store includes 52 parking spots and employs 38 people, according to the owners. The entire Rolling Greens has 150 workers, they said. The new nursery doesn’t quite fill a void in the Central City, but it does offer an option for people looking for plants. Downtown has a vibrant Flower District, noted Katherine McNenny, co-founder of the nonprofit Industrial District Green, which aims to increase public green space in the area. Still, she added, those businesses concentrate on wholesale options, and there is no large destination for the local community. “I’ve been to their Culver City location. It’s a great store,” McNenny said. “I’d say welcome to the industrial community.” For Salmeri and Resnick, the nursery is only part of the business plan. Other Rolling Greens locations are frequently rented out for private affairs, and Resnick said the Downtown outpost has the potential to host “huge events.” There is a 3,200-square-foot tent off the main shop, with throw rugs and pillows on the floor. It can hold 250 people. There will also be a 1,760-square-foot deck by the furniture showroom. The rest of the nursery’s wares and features are expected to open in early 2019. That includes the rest of the 20,000-squarefoot greenhouse, a wine bar off of the furniture space, and a sales area with more pots and containers, and a landscaped garden with herbs and flowers. Rolling Greens is at 1005 Mateo St., (213) 271-2047 or rollinggreens.com. nicholas@downtownnews.com

SHOPPING l PERFORMANCES DINING l FESTIVE EVENTS & MORE

DOWNTOWNLA.COM/HOLIDAY

#DTLAHoliday

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

10 DOWNTOWN NEWS

Look Sexier

MODEL

Richelle Huizar Quits City Council Race

...because you can LA’S MOST CELEBRATED & FRIENDLY INJECTORS

‘FALL CLASSIC EVENT’

NOVEMBER 22ND - NOVEMBER 30TH, 2018 $150 TRIO

$50 OFF

DUET

FAMILY OF FILLERS

ULTRA XC ULTRA+ XC VOLUMA XC VOLBELLA XC VOLLURE XC

PURCHASE 24+ UNITS OF BOTOX AT $8.95 PER UNIT & SAVE BIG ON JUVEDERM

1st SYRINGE

2nd SYRINGE

$370 $370 $545 $445 $445

$320 $320 $495 $395 $395

(1.0 cc)

(1.0 cc) (1.0 cc)

*REFLECTS $50 OFF INSTANT REBATE PLUS EARN LOYALTY POINTS TOWARDS YOUR NEXT TREATMENT. VISIT OUBEAUTY.COM OR CALL FOR MINIMAL RESTRICTIONS FAMILY OF FILLERS

(1.0 cc)

LOYALTY POINTS EARNED

$20* $20* $30* $30* $30*

$150 TRIO

$20

+ Earn Restylane Bucks!*

FAMILY OF FILLERS

PURCHASE 60+ UNITS OF DYSPORT AT

Restylane-L (1.0 cc) Restylane Lyft (1.0 cc) Restylane Silk (1.0 cc) NEW! Defyne (1.0 cc) NEW! Refyne (1.0 cc)

$2.95**PER UNIT **3 DYSPORT UNITS EQUIVALENT IN STRENGTH TO 1 BOTOX UNIT VISIT OUBEAUTY.COM OR CALL FOR MINIMAL RESTRICTIONS

*GOOD TOWARDS YOUR NEXT PURCHASE OF RESTYLANE

PURCHASE 24+ UNITS OF

FOR JUST

REG PRICE

1st SYRINGE

2nd SYRINGE

$395 $395 $395 $495 $495

$345 $345 $345 $445 $445

$295 $295 $295 $395 $395

AND GET “1.5cc Jumbo Syringe”

Per Unit

1st Syringe ............ 2nd Syringe ...........

$395 $375

No Double Chin. No Surgery. No Kidding. OW

N FF 0 $2 0 O L A I V PER *Recommended 1-3 vials

for ﬁrst treatment and 1-2 for second.

NOW

$395* PER VIAL

Maybe the best chemical peel you’ll ever have

FREEZE THE FAT AWAY PERMANENTLY • NEW Low Prices • CoolSculpting University Certiﬁed • All the New CoolSculpting Handles

FREE

CONSULTATION

REMOVE FAT PERMANENTLY

PHENTERMINE WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAM

$195 $350

+ FREE AFTER-CARE KIT

FDA Approved Appetite Suppressant.

$89

$119 60% OFF

**Loyalty points on next Botox, Juvederm treatment or Latisse, while supplies last.

UNTIL 11/30/18

The Industry Gold Standard for Laser Hair Removal

more specials at www.oubeauty.com • Botox Diamond Award

NAMED BEST MEDISPA 10 YEARS IN A ROW 2009-2018

NOW 2 GREAT LOCATIONS

Dr. Kojian, Owner

818.551.1682 130 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale, CA 213.617.1682 125 S. San Pedro St., Los Angeles, CA

Oh You Beauty, Inc. Dr. Kojian

TYPHUS!, 5 Lightsheer™ Hair Removal

PLUS $10 LOYALTY POINTS

By Jon Regardie ichelle Huizar, the wife of embattled Downtown City Councilman José Huizar, last week relinquished her campaign to replace her husband on the panel when he is termed out in 2020. The announcement, made on Wednesday, Nov. 26, the day before Thanksgiving, comes in the wake of a string of embarrassing episodes for José Huizar, including a pair of lawsuits filed by former employees, FBI raids of his City Hall office and the family’s Boyle Heights home, and the councilman being stripped of his council committee assignments. Richelle Huizar had announced her candidacy on Sept. 13, and had held a pair of fundraisers in Downtown Los Angeles. The primary election is in March 2020, with a runoff, if necessary, that November. “Today, I am announcing my withdrawal as a candidate for City Council in order to focus on my family,” Richelle Huizar said in a prepared statement. “I am eternally grateful for the support that I have received since announcing our campaign in September. I look forward to continuing to work on issues I’m passionate about and staying involved in improving our communities.” Richelle Huizar and the councilman had been laying the groundwork for her campaign for more than a year before she entered the race. She had frequently accompanied José Huizar to business and community events. Richelle Huizar has worked in the past as an attorney specializing in family law and has served on a number of boards. She was on the city’s Commission on the Status of Women, and only stepped down in recent weeks. Questions have surrounded her campaign since last month, when two former female employees accused José Huizar of harassment and retaliation. They also alleged that the councilman had engaged in an extramarital affair separate from one he acknowledged in 2014. On Nov. 7, the FBI raided the councilman’s fourth floor City Hall office and the family’s home in Boyle Heights, as well as a Boyle Heights field office. FBI agents were seen leav-

On the day before Thanksgiving, Richelle Huizar announced that she would no longer seek to succeed her husband José Huizar on the City Council. The 14th District representative is termed out in 2020. photo by Gary Leonard

ing the home and the City Hall office with boxes, bagged items and electronic equipment. No charges have been filed and no arrests have been made. The FBI has confirmed that the IRS is involved in the investigation. On Nov. 15, Council President Herb Wesson took the unprecedented step of stripping Huizar of his committee assignments, including his role as chair of the powerful Planning and Land Use Management Committee. Richelle Huizar never publicly commented on her husband’s situation or its impact on her campaign. José Huizar had not been seen in City Hall for more than a week until he returned Tuesday. He brushed off questions from reporters about the lawsuits and the FBI raids, frequently repeating, “I’m here to do my job.” Richelle Huizar’s departure from the campaign opens the door for other prominent candidates to enter the race. District observers have speculated that state Assemblyman Miguel Santiago, whose district includes Downtown, could run, as could former state Senate President Pro Tem Kevin De Leon. De Leon just lost a campaign for the U.S. Senate against incumbent Dianne Feinstein. The 14th District includes Downtown, Boyle Heights and portions of Northeast Los Angeles. regardie@downtownnews.com

NO EXAM FEE

NOVEMBER SPECIALS

5ml BOTTLE

Decision Comes Two Months After She Launched Campaign to Succeed Her Husband, José Huizar

30-day Supply

$20 OFF

NO SURGERY • NO NEEDLES NO DOWNTIME

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

Open 7 Days a Week ‘til 8pm

n Typhus should not be confused with typhoid fever, which is a very serious disease spread by contaminated food or water. In the best-known case, a cook named Mary Mallon was presumed to have infected more than 50 people in early 20th century New York. She became known as Typhoid Mary. n A rat on Sixth Street is presumed to have infected four people. He is known, by me, as Typhus Phil. n If you think you have been exposed

to flea-borne typhus, then run, don’t walk, to see a doctor. Visiting your personal physician is recommended. Important reminder: Despite the name, Dr. Dre, Dr. J, Dr. Demento and Dr. Pepper are not actual doctors. n If you do have a confirmed case of typhus, drinking Dr. Pepper won’t rid you of the disease, but it won’t hurt either. n Signs of typhus typically start at least six days after contact with an infected flea. If you run across an infected flea and don’t have typhus eight days later, then happy Hanukkah! regardie@downtownnews.com

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

DOWNTOWN NEWS 11

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

CALENDAR

The Miami City Ballet’s Nutcracker returns to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion this week, an effort to create a new holiday dance tradition in Downtown Los Angeles.

Miami City Ballet’s Colorful Version of ‘The Nutcracker’ Bounds Into the Music Center BY NICHOLAS SLAYTON

or decades, The Nutcracker has been a holiday staple at performing arts centers across the country, with families returning year after year, little kids in tow, to watch the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and “The Nutcracker Suite.” Although occasional productions wound up in Downtown Los Angeles over the years, they have been sporadic. Last year, the Music Center launched an effort to change the situation, co-commissioning a new production of George Balanchine’s adaptation of The Nutcracker. It returns to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion this week. The Miami City Ballet will do five performances of The Nutcracker on Friday-Sunday, Nov. 30-Dec. 2 (including three matinees). Set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic music, the ballet follows Marie, a young woman who receives a nutcracker toy for Christmas. It soon comes to life and some spectacular dances follow. Tickets start at $34. This Nutcracker builds on Balanchine’s choreography and has a huge cast. The Miami City Ballet is bringing its full company of 52 dancers, plus seven pre-professional and three student dancers, Miami City Ballet Executive Director Tania Castroverde Moskalenko said. In addition, there are nearly 60 local student dancers (some still in elementary school) from the Colburn School and the Gabriela Foundation’s everybody

photo courtesy Alexander Iziliaev

Return of the Gateway Ballet

dance! program, as well as performers from the Los Angeles Children’s Choir. The ballet starts in a relatively grounded setting, at a Christmas party. Marie receives her present, and soon the nutcracker comes to life and is revealed as a prince. Marie finds herself transported to the magical Land of Sweets, where dancers representing various nations of the world perform one by one, leading up to a final waltz. Moskalenko said that the ballet has emerged as a holiday staple in part for its ability to inspire wonder, and also because it is so accessible. She describes it as “gateway” show into the world of ballet. “The Nutcracker is a staple for every dance student. It never gets old,” Moskalenko said. “It has a fantastic score and it captures the wonder of childhood. Inside the theater, we’re all transported back to being kids.” The Nutcracker is epic in nature, with new worlds, sweeping battles and a tour of global cultures all mixed into one big story told through dance. This production utilizes a live orchestra and more than 100 people on stage. The idea for a recurring Downtown Nutcracker came from Rachel Moore, who became president and CEO of the Music Center in 2015. Moore, a former professional dancer with New York’s American Ballet Theatre, said she wanted to bring in a “high quality” production. She noted that the Miami City Ballet is known for its mastery of Balanchine’s Nutcracker, and has been doing a version of the show for more than 20 years. The initial agreement is to do this Nutcracker in Downtown for three years. “The Miami City Ballet fit the bill,” Moore said. “And at the Colburn School, the two people who run their Continued on page 16

12 DOWNTOWN NEWS

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

The Kindness of 9,000 Strangers Ahmanson Musical ‘Come From Away’ Finds Tenderness And Human Connection in the Wake of 9/11

photo by Matthew Murphy

Come From Away was nominated for seven Tony Awards (it won for Best Director). The musical about the nearly 7,000 travelers who were grounded in a small town in Canada on Sept. 11, 2001, opens at the Ahmanson Theatre this week.

By Sean P. Thomas veryone has their “Where were you on 9/11?” story. For nearly 6,700 people, the answer unexpectedly ended up being the small Canadian town of Gander in the province of Newfoundland. That’s because, after the terrorist attacks began and planes were redirected to nearby airports, 38 international aircraft were grounded there. Many people stayed for five days. The “come from aways,” as the visitors would be called, nearly doubled the town’s population, but the inhabitants of Gander stepped up, providing simple and heartwarming hospitality — everything from home-cooked meals to blankets and lodging. Gander’s story became the basis of the musical Come From Away, which is opening at the Music Center’s Ahmanson Theatre on Wednesday, Nov. 28. It runs through Jan. 6. The musical, written by husband-and-wife team Irene Sankoff and David Hein, is set in the week following the Sept. 11 attacks. It is based on interviews that the couple conducted with the townsfolk of Gander, as well as the pilots, passengers and crew of the downed planes during the 10th anniversary of the events. Despite the copious media exposure of Gander at the time of and in the years after the attacks, most notably in Tom Brokaw’s 2010 documentary Operation Yellow Ribbon, the story remained largely unknown to many. That included Christopher Ashley, who didn’t learn the tale until he read the first draft of Sankoff and Hein’s script in 2012. Ashley would go on to direct the Broadway production that opened in 2017 and won a Tony Award for Best Director. He is now directing the touring version. “Working on this show has been a pretty extraordinary kind of exploration into the kindness that people are capable of,” Ashley said during a phone interview with Los Angeles Downtown News. “During that terrible moment, people in Newfoundland were so

generous to these people who showed up on their doorsteps.” The musical takes the stories of close to 16,000 people — almost 7,000 travelers and 9,000 residents — and condenses them into a tight 100-minute runtime. Each of the 12 actors plays multiple roles, with some representing an amalgamation of two or three interview subjects. Ashley called the show “as hard an acting challenge” as he’s ever been a part of in all his years in theater. “With very little technical assistance — with, say, a sweater, these actors are transforming themselves into these different roles,” Ashley said. To squeeze in as many experiences as possible, the musical utilizes cinematic tools, jump cutting to different planes and settings across the 40-square-mile town. Actor Megan McGinnis likens the performance to a ballet. Actors are required to juggle multiple stories and subplots, while seamlessly working together to reorganize the stage’s 14 chairs depending on the scene. One story McGinnis takes on involves Bonnie, a Gander Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals worker who assumed the responsibility of caring for the 19 animals that were being transported in some of the downed planes. That included expected creatures — eight dogs and nine cats — as well as some more exotic species — two rare Bonobos. “The animals were forgotten about until Bonnie tracked them down,” McGinnis said. “It was Bonnie and three other people who went into the planes and fed and cared for them and was able to get them off the planes.” McGinnis also takes on the roles of various residents and travelers, including one of the “Ganderites” who housed stranded travelers. The show includes 23 songs. The music is modeled off the tunes heard in various Newfoundland bars, with themes borrowed from Continued on page 16

DT the Don't Miss List

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

DOWNTOWN NEWS 13

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

CALENDAR LISTINGS

WEDNESDAY, NOV. 28 Bar Wrestling: As You Wish Bootleg Theater, 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org. 8 p.m.: See the wonders of violent and enthralling sports entertainment as burly people fight in the ring. Best of all, this is apparently a “Princess Bride” themed event. Why not! THURSDAY, NOV. 29 Union Station Tree Lighting and Cocoa Concert Union Station, 800 N. Alameda St. or unionstationla.com. 6:30 p.m.: Enjoy live music from the Grand Arts Chamber Singers and Los Angeles Symphonic Winds while seeing the transit hub’s massive tree get much brighter. What Does the Life of Frederick Douglass Tell Us About America? National Center for the Preservation of Democracy, 111 N. Central Ave. or zocalopublicsquare.org. 7:30 p.m.: Historian David W. Blight sits down with comedian and writer Baratunde Thurston to discuss the legacy of Douglass, who’s being recognized more and more. It’s organized by Zocalo. FRIDAY, NOV. 30 Arch Bishop Don Magic Juan at the Last Bookstore The Last Bookstore, 453 S. Spring St., (213) 488-0599 or lastbookstorela.com. 7 p.m.: The former pimp is in the Historic Core to discuss his past and his re-released memoir “From Pimp Stick to Pulpit.” Los Angeles Auto Show Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa St. or laautoshow.com. 9 a.m.: Check out the latest cars and trucks, from cozy sedans to futuristic concept cars. Through Dec. 9. See story p. 7. SATURDAY, DEC. 1 Union Station Holiday Festival Union Station, 800 N. Alameda St. or unionstationla.com. 11 a.m.: Check out the latest wares from local craftsmen and artists at this pop-up market. Also be sure to stay for live music and a performance from the Bob Baker Marionette Theater.

photo by James Matthew

EVENTS

BY SEAN P. THOMAS

An ill girl and her mother are locked away in a sterile room, protected from a dangerous illness that lives just outside their home. Unable to walk, the girl’s curiosity propels her to explore the mystery just outside her door. Intrigued? Then check out the world premiere of Ellen Reid: p r i s m, the operatic production by composers Ellen Reid (shown here) and Roxie Perkins coming to REDCAT this week. Taking place on Thursday-Sunday, Nov. 29-Dec. 2, the performance is presented in conjunction with L.A. Opera and explores the impact that a traumatic experience can have on memory. Shows begin at 8 p.m. the first three days with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday. At 621 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org.

In 1991, Jane’s Addiction frontman Perry Farrell founded the monumental Lollapalooza music festival. Now he’s helping get another festival off the ground. At almost 60 years old, the rocker who also led Porno for Pyros is still kicking hard, and is heading to the Teragram Ballroom on Friday, Nov. 30. He’ll headline the inaugural Bill Graham Festival of Lights alongside his experimental music group Perry Farrell’s Kind Heaven Orchestra. Expect to hear selections from Farrell’s first solo album in almost 20 years, set for release in 2019. Also on the bill is Dhani Harrison. At 1234 W. Seventh St. or teragramballroom.com.

photo by Gabe L’Heureux

photo courtesy DTLA Mini Maker Faire

ROCK, POP & JAZZ

Blue Whale 123 Astronaut E. S. Onizuka St., (213) 620-0908 or bluewhalemusic.com. Nov. 26: Josh Nelson, Nick Mancini. Nov. 27: Trevor Andereis Group. Nov. 28: David Binney’s residency continues. Nov. 29-30: Ari Hoenig Trio. Continued on next page

5 OFF

photo by Kristen Loken

LUNCH

SPECIAL

Gourmet Fast Casual Restaurant Since 1973 7 Days-7am to 10pm • FREE Parking • We Cater 1657 W. 3rd St. at Union Ave. • 213-483-8885 *ANY PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE. 1 COUPON PER CUSTOMER, PER VISIT. EXPIRES 12/31/18

photo by J3 Collection

The female empowerment-focused music festival Girl Cult is returning to Downtown Los Angeles for a second year on Saturday, Dec. 1. Taking place at The Novo at L.A. Live and organized by Galore, the minds behind the podcast of the same name, it focuses on providing a carefree and open environment. The soulful Jhené Aiko (shown here) will headline the event alongside former Fifth Harmony singer Lauren Jauregui. Also on the bill is a panel discussion with Amber Rose and Bella Thorne, with additional speakers to be announced. Doors open at 3:30 p.m. At 800 W. Olympic Blvd. or thenovodtla.com.

Gustavo Dudamel isn’t the only top conductor who picks up the baton for Los Angeles Philharmonic performances. This week, Michael Tilson Thomas (shown here), music director of the San Francisco Symphony, is traveling down the 5 Freeway to a lineup dedicated to the music of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Taking place at the Walt Disney Concert Hall on Friday-Sunday, Nov. 30- Dec. 2, the program includes Thomas’ “For Preludes on Playthings of the Wind” and a performance of Tchaikovsky’s “Symphony No. 6, ‘Pathétique.’” The concert begins at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday with a 2 p.m. matinee Sunday. At 111 S. Grand Ave. or laphil.com.

A 3D-printed re-creation of the Mars rover Curiosity, portable and shareable phone chargers, and augmented reality video games are just a few of the interesting and do-it-yourself projects to be found at the DTLA Mini Maker Faire at the Central Library on Saturday, Dec. 1. Returning to Downtown for the third time, this kid-friendly festival brings local craftsmen and tinkerers of all levels together to showcase their creative inventions. Last year, more than 40 makers and 1,800 visitors attended the event. Keep your eyes peeled, as the next Steve Jobs or Elon Musk might be standing right in front of you. The fair runs from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and admission is free but online RSVPs are requested. At 630 W. Fifth St. or dtla.makerfaire.com.

Send information and possible Don’t Miss List submissions to calendar@downtownnews.com.

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

14 DOWNTOWN NEWS

LISTINGS, 13 Bootleg Bar 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org. Nov. 26: It’s the last night of Motor Sales’ residency. Nov. 27: Richard Lloyd of Television goes solo. Nov. 29: Indie pop from Swimm, plus Mating Ritual. Nov. 30: Ethereal indie pop from Costa Mesa’s Spendtime Palace. Dec. 1: Tomberlin’s latest album takes influence from church hymns, so expect sweeping vocals. Dec. 2: Get your folk fix with Charlie Hickey. The Escondite 410 Boy St., (213) 626-1800 or theescondite.com. Nov. 30: EJP & the Remedy Band, Joe Thalman & the Burden. Exchange LA 618 S. Spring St., (213) 627-8070 or exchangela.com. Nov. 30-Dec. 1: Tycho does a DJ set. Grammy Museum 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org. Nov. 29: Latin Grammy winner Claudia Brant stops by to discuss her songwriting process and perform a few tunes. Moroccan Lounge 901 E. First St., (213) 395-0610 or themoroccan.com. Nov. 26: Befitting the name, the Silver Lake Chorus does choral versions of indie-pop songs. Nov. 27: Next Town Down is the R&B group for the YouTube age. Nov. 28: The twins that make up Say Lou Lou sing the most ethereal of dream pop. Nov. 29: London’s Westerman makes music teetering between experimental folk music and indie-pop, so be ready for a mix of annoyingly catchy tunes and vulnerable but weird arrangements.

Nov. 30: Sean Rowe has an impressively rugged beard that suits his gravel-voiced folk songs. Dec. 1: Justus Proffit and Jay Som team up for a genre-spanning set. Dec. 2: Altopalo has embraced low-key and downtempo stylings with its latest album. It’s not quite ambient house, but it will do. Resident 428 S. Hewitt St. or (323) 316-5311 or residentdtla.com. Nov. 27: Get ready for thrash metal from Toxic Holocaust. Fittingly, Take Offense opens. Dec. 1: Comrades! Ben Pirani and the Means of Production want you to seize their tickets. Staples Center 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7100 or staplescenter.com. Nov. 27: Justin Timberlake, the man who claimed he brought sexy back and then decided to go hang out in the woods, is here. The Novo 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or thenovodtla.com. Nov. 29: Wheeler Walker Jr. has a $10 show. Nov. 30: More country music for you with Chris Janson. Dec. 1: The Girl Cult Festival includes Jhené Aiko, Dreezy and more. The Redwood 316 W. Second St., (213) 680-2600 or theredwoodbar.com. Nov. 27: The Time Travelers, Velvet Starlings, Speed of Light. Nov. 28: Veneer, The Kinky Fingers, Sam Slick. Nov. 29: The Coolers, Mannequin Medicine, The Howling Faith. Nov. 30: Michael Des Barres & the Mistakes, The Hellflowers, Electric Children. Dec. 1: The Arthur Alexander Band, Beggars and Choosers, Imagery Machine.

Open24/7

Free Wi-Fi | Drive Thru Free Parking Breakfast All Day

Dim Sum

726 Alameda St. (Bay & Alameda) 213-228-8999 | farmerboysla.com For Orders Over $15

20% OFF

(before taxes) With This Coupon. Expires 12/31/18. No substitutions. Limit one offer per coupon. One coupon per transaction. Los Angeles Alameda location only. Not valid with any other coupon, advertised special or offer. State sales tax applicable. Copies or replicas of this offer will not be accepted.

LUNCH AND DINNER • An Extensive Seafood Menu including Dim Sum at Moderate Prices • Relaxed Dining in an Elegant Ambiance • Live Lobster Tank

700 N. Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Free Parking Next to Restaurant Tel: 213.617.2323

FREE

TICKETS! @DowntownNews.com

CREED II

ROBIN HOOD

Starts November 21 Starts November 21

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

Dec. 2: Roselit Bone. The Regent 448 S. Main St., (323) 284-5727, or theregenttheater.com. Nov. 29: Electronic musician Giraffage and rapper Ryan Hemsworth (no relation to Chris, Luke or the lesser Hemsworth, Liam) have teamed up. Dec. 1: Swallow your pride, choke on the rinds, and go see Eve 6 on the band’s 20th anniversary tour. Here’s to the night we felt like reliving the late ’90s. Dec. 2: Problem & Friends. The Smell 247 S. Main St. in the alley between Spring and Main or thesmell.org. Nov. 30: Whaja Dew, Rise & Repeat, MoonFuzz. Dec. 1: The Chonks, Truck Box. Teragram Ballroom 1234 W. Seventh St. or teragramballroom.com. Nov. 29: Experimental post-rock courtesy of El Ten Eleven. Nov. 30: Perry Farrell brings his Kind Heaven Orchestra to City West. Also, thenewno2’s Dhani Harrison (son of George) opens. Dec. 1: Dance the night away with house music from Wuki.

THEATER

Come From Away Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or centertheatregroup.org. Nov. 28 and Nov. 30, 8 p.m., Nov. 29 and Dec. 1, 2 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Dec. 2, 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.: In the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attacks, 7,000 travelers found themselves in a small town in Newfoundland, Canada. The true story inspired a Tony-winning musical about trust and friendship. Through Jan. 6. See story on page 12. Ellen Reid: p r i s m REDCAT, 631 W. Second St., (213) 972-8001 or laopera.com.

Nov. 29-Dec. 1, 8 p.m. and Dec. 2, 2 p.m.: Presented by L.A. Opera in partnership with REDCAT, this theatrical world premiere follows an isolated mother and daughter and explores how haunting music starts to separate them. The Nutcracker Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-0711 or musiccenter.org/nutcracker. Nov. 30, 7:30 p.m., Dec. 1, 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 2, 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.: The Miami City Ballet returns to Downtown for a colorful and lavish production of George Balanchine’s version of “The Nutcracker.” See more than 100 dancers bring the holiday tradition to life. See story on page 11. Valley of the Heart Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or musiccenter.org. Nov. 27-30, 8 p.m., Dec. 1, 2:30 and 8 p.m. and Dec. 2, 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.: Two immigrant families clash amid the outbreak of World War II, even as members from each side fall in love. Luis Valdez writes and directs. Through Dec. 9.

FILM

Downtown Independent 251 S. Main St., (213) 617-1033 or downtownindependent.com. Nov. 26-29: Jonah Hill’s directorial debut Mid90s goes back to the skate scene of L.A. Nov. 30: Melt your mind with the trippy thriller Beyond the Black Rainbow. IMAX California Science Center, 700 State Drive, (213) 744-2019 or californiasciencecenter.org. Who doesn’t love pandas? The adorable bears take center stage in the appropriately titled Pandas 3D. Kristen Bell narrates the film about the efforts to reintroduce captive-born pandas into the wild. Continued on page 15

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

Patrick Stewart narrates Journey to Space 3D, about the effort to send astronauts to Mars. Since we’ll never go to space ourselves, at least we can hear Captain Jean-Luc Picard talk about it. Dive into the history of Egypt and the impact of the Nile River as Omar Sharif hosts Mysteries of Egypt. Regal Cinemas LA Live 1000 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 763-6070 or lalive.com/movies. Through Dec. 2: Creed II (12, 3:20, 6:40 and 10 p.m.); Ralph Breaks the Internet (12:30, 3:50, 7 and 10:20 p.m.); Robin Hood (1:10, 4:20, 7:30 and 10:40 p.m.). Additional screenings were not available at press time; see website for complete schedule. Rooftop Cinema Club Level Furnished Living, 888 S. Olive St. or rooftopcinemaclub.com. Dec. 1: It’s a Christmas-themed double feature. First up, a kid violently defends his home after his family forgets about him in Home Alone. Then, Will Ferrell is a human who thinks he’s an elf in the appropriately titled Elf.

CLASSICAL

Michael Tilson Thomas and Tchaikovsky 6 Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or laphil.com. Nov. 30-Dec. 1, 8 p.m. and Dec. 2, 2 p.m.: The esteemed conductor teams up with the L.A. Phil for three performances of a new work, plus one of the Russian composer Tchaikovsky’s classic symphonies. Piano Spheres: Gloria Cheng

Zipper Hall, 200 S. Grand Ave. or colburnschool.edu. Nov. 27, 8 p.m.: Cheng’s CD release show, part of the Piano Spheres series, is also a tribute to the late composer Steven Stucky. Camerata Pacifica Zipper Hall, 200 S. Grand Ave. or colburnschool.edu. Nov. 29, 8 p.m.: It’s a night of string music, with performances of works by Beethoven and others.

To place a classified ad in the Downtown News please call 213-481-1448 Deadline for classified display and line ads are Thursday at 12pm.

FOR RENT

All submissions are subject to federal and California fair housing laws, which make it illegal to indicate in any advertisement any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, familial status, source of income or physical or mental disability. We will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. All persons are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised are available on an equal opportunity basis.

FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2018265686 The following individual(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) MUNGUIA’S PROMOTIONS, INC., 311 EDENFIELD AVE, AZUSA, CA 91702 LA COUNTY, are hereby registered by the following registrants: (1) MUNGUIA’S PROMOTIONS, INC., 311 EDENFIELD AVE, AZUSA, CA 91702 LA COUNTY. This business is conducted by a Corporation. Registrant(s) began to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed above: 9/2018 This statement was filed with DEAN C. LOGAN, Los Angeles County Clerk on OCTOBER 19, 2018. NOTICE—This fictitious name statement expires five years

MUSEUMS

African American Firefighter Museum 1401 S. Central Ave., (213) 744-1730 or aaffmuseum.org. Ongoing: An array of firefighting relics dating to 1924, including a 1940 Pirsch ladder truck, an 1890 hose wagon, uniforms from New York, L.A. County and City of L.A. firefighters, badges, helmets, photographs and other artifacts. Broad Museum 221 S. Grand Ave., (213) 232-6200 or thebroad.org. Ongoing: In the galleries at the Grand Avenue institution are about 250 works from Eli and Edythe Broad’s 2,000-piece contemporary art collection. It’s big-time blue chip, with work from Rauschenberg, Warhol, Basquiat, Koons, Kruger and every other big name. Through Feb. 2019: The Broad explores the passage of time with “A Journey That Wasn’t.” FIDM Museum FIDM, second floor, 919 S. Grand Ave., (213) 624-1200 or fidmmuseum.org. Ongoing: “Accessories from The Helen Larson Historic Fashion Collection” surveys footwear, fans, gloves, purses and hats. California African American Museum

CLASSIFIEDS

LEGAL

DOWNTOWN NEWS 15

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et. seq. Business and Professions Code). Pub. 11/5, 11/12, 11/19 and 11/26. Fictitious Business Name Statement File No. 2018225363 The following individual(s) is (are) doing business as: (1) MERCATOR REJECTION, 416 S. SPRING ST. 505, LOS ANGELES, CA 90013, LA COUNTY are hereby registered by the following registrants: (1) DANIEL JOHNSON, 416 S. SPRING ST. 505, LOS ANGELES, CA 90013. This business is conducted by an Individual. Registrant(s) began to transact business under the

fictitious business name or names listed above: 08/2018. This statement was filed with DEAN C. LOGAN, Los Angeles County Clerk on September 6, 2018. NOTICE—This fictitious name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et. seq. Business and Professions Code). Pub. 9/17, 9/24, 10/1 and 10/8. NAME CHANGE Superior court of California, County of Los Angeles ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME No. 18LBCP00056 Petitioner (name of each) Jennifer Louise Lallite Myers, 2120 Sea Ridge Drive, Signal Hill, CA 90755 filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: JENNIFER LOUISE LALLITE MYERS Proposed name: JENNIFER LOUISE LALLITE THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and

600 State Drive, (213) 744-7432 or caamuseum.org. Through Feb. 17: Mixed media works from the New Yorkbased artist in “Robert Pruitt: Devotion.” Through Jan. 20: “Nina Chanel Abney: Royal Flush” offers a survey of 10 years of the artist’s paintings. Through Jan. 21: “California Bound: Slavery on the New Frontier, 1848-1865” explores the Golden State’s history in slavery. Ongoing: The multi-functional “Gallery of Discovery” offers visitors the opportunity to connect with the lineage of their own family, engage in artistic workshops, educational tours and other programs of historical discoveries. Hear recordings of former slaves from the Library of Congress archives and discover stories from the past. California Science Center 700 State Drive, (323) 724-3623 or californiasciencecenter.org. Ongoing: “Mission 26: The Big Endeavour” presents Los Angeles’ very own Space Shuttle in all of its splendor. Ongoing: “Science in Toyland” presents physics through favorite kids’ toys. This hands-on exhibit engages museum visitors with Dominos, Sails and Roller Coasters in a fun, but informational primer on friction, momentum and chain reactions. Ongoing: The Science Center’s permanent exhibits are interactive and focus on human innovations and inventions as well as the life processes of living things. The lobby Science Court stays busy with the High Wire Bicycle, a Motion-Based Simulator, the Ecology Cliff Climb and “Forty Years of Space Photography.” The human body is another big focus: The Life Tunnel aims to show the connections between all life forms, from the single-celled amoeba to the 100-trillion-celled human being. The “Ecosystems” exhibit explores how life on our planet is shaped by geophysical and biological processes.

must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of hearing Date: 01/04/2019 Time: 8:30 AM Dept.: S-27 Room: 5400 The address of the court is: Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, 275 Magnolia Avenue, Long Beach, CA 90802. Branch Name: Governor George Deukmejian. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in LA DOWNTOWN NEWS, 1264 West 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 of general circulation, printed in this county. Prepared by: Sherri R. Carter Executive Office/Clerk. Deputy: E. Salcido Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles 275 Magnolia Avenue Long Beach, CA 90802 Governor George Deukmejian Date: November 16, 2018 Hon. Mark C. Kim Judge of the Superior Court Pub. 11/26, 12/03, 12/10 and 12/17. Superior court of California, County of Los Angeles ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME No. 18VECP00055 Petitioner (name of each) Chantal Zivari Castanon, 4652 Fulton Ave., Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: Present name: CHANTAL ZIVARI

CASTANON Proposed name: CHANTAL ZIVARI THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing. Notice of hearing Date: 12/31/2018 Time: 8:30 AM Dept.: C Room: 511 The address of the court is: Superior Court of California, County of Los Angeles, Los Angeles Superior Court, Northwest District – East Bldg., 6230 Sylmar Avenue, Van Nuys, CA 91401. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in LA DOWNTOWN NEWS, 1264 West 1st Street, Los Angeles, CA 90026 of general circulation, printed in this county. Prepared by: Sherri R. Carter Executive Office/Clerk. Superior Court of California, Los Angeles Northwest District – East Bldg. 6230 Sylmar Avenue Van Nuys, CA 91401 Date: November 14, 2018 Hon. Huey P. Cotton Judge of the Superior Court Pub. 11/26, 12/03, 12/10 and 12/17.

Chinese American Museum 425 N. Los Angeles St., (213) 485-8567 or camla.org. Permanent: “Origins” presents the story of the Chinese-American community in Los Angeles. Permanent: Re-creation of the Sun Wing Wo, a Chinese general store and herbal shop, and “Journeys: Stories of Chinese Immigration,” an exhibit exploring Chinese immigration to the United States with an emphasis on community settlement in Los Angeles. Outlined into four distinct time periods, each is defined by an important immigration law and/or event, accompanied by a description and a personal story about a local Chinese American and their experiences in that particular historical period.

MORE LISTINGS Hundreds of listings of fun and interesting things to do in Downtown Los Angeles can also be found online at ladowntownnews.com/calendar: Rock, Pop & Jazz; Bars & Clubs; Farmers Markets; Events; Film; Sports; Art Spaces; Theater, Dance and Opera; Classical Music; Museums; and Tours.

2YOUR EVENT INFO

EASY WAYS TO SUBMIT

WEB: LADowntownNews.com/calendar EMAIL: Calendar@DowntownNews.com

Email: Send a brief description, street address and public phone number. Submissions must be received 10 days prior to publication date to be considered for print.

HELP WANTED

Advertising Sales L.A. Downtown News, in the heart of Los Angeles, has an immediate opening for an experienced ad sales professional to sell print and digital products for LA Downtown News from our downtown office. You will have the opportunity to also sell into our other media properties, including the Pasadena Weekly, Arroyo Monthly, The Argonaut, Playa Vista Direct, San Diego City Beat as well as their respective digital platforms. Duties include selling to and servicing clients, creating advertising campaigns, pursuing leads and presenting to local businesses and advertising agencies. We are looking for a proven professional with a minimum of two years of media sales experience, a track record of achievement and a desire to be part of one of the most exciting markets on the West Coast - Downtown Los Angeles! A college degree is preferred. A valid driver’s license and auto insurance are required. We offer salary + commission & bonus opportunities, health insurance, 401K participation, and a fun and stimulating work environment. If your skills are a good match please contact us for an interview. Come be a part of our growing team! Please send an email introducing yourself and why you are a perfect fit for the position along with your resume to Lake@DowntownNews.com

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

16 DOWNTOWN NEWS

NOVEMBER 26, 2018

NUTCRACKER, 11

TRILOGY

Downtown...It’s Not Just Big Business Anymore! 255 GRAND 255 South Grand Avenue 213-229-9777 www.255GRAND.com Community Amenities: Expansive Outdoor Terrace Heated Pool & Spa Custom-Designed Interiors 24 hr. Manned Lobby Resident Concierge Fitness Center / Yoga Studio Wi-Fi Lounge State-of-the-Art HD Theater Gourmet BBQ Areas / Gas Fire Pits Contemporary Lounge with Gourmet Kitchen

school for dance, James Fayette and Jenifer Ringer, they’re former New York City Ballet dancers, so they also knew the choreography really well.” The Dorothy Chandler stage allows the Miami City Ballet to expand its production, Moskalenko said. In mounting the show last year, the company introduced new sets and costumes designed by Cuban-American artists Ruben and Isa-

Apartment Amenities: Breathtaking Views Spacious Floorplans Central Air & Heating Balconies / Urban Patios (Most Units) Deep Soaking Tubs Luxury Stainless Appliances & Finishes Sky Level 27th Floor Penthouse Units: Complimentary Wi-Fi & Basic Cable Waterfall Countertops Bosch Appliances Nest 3rd Generation Thermostats Up to 2 Parking Spaces Included On-Site: Dry Cleaners / Dental Office / Restaurants photo courtesy Alexander Iziliaev

The production involves more than 50 dancers from Miami City Ballet, along with 60 student performers from local institutions including the Colburn School.

PROMENADE TOWERS 123 South Figueroa Street 213-617-3777 www.THEPROMENADETOWERS.com

Community Amenities: Expansive Outdoor Patio with BBQ Grills Heated Pool & Spa 24 hr. Manned Lobby Fitness Center Parking Garage

On-Site: Convenience Store / Café / Beauty Salon / Private Fitness Training Apartment Amenities: Floor-to-Ceiling Windows City Skyline Views Solarium and/or Balconies

MUSEUM TOWER 225 South Olive Street 213-626-1500

COME FROM AWAY, 12

www.THEMUSEUMTOWERAPTS.com

Community Amenities: 24 hr. Manned Lobby Resident Concierge Heated Pool & Spa Fitness Center / Yoga Studio Outdoor Patio Gas BBQ Grills Recreation Room State-of-the-Art HD Theater Rooftop Patio with Views

bel Toledo. The bright colors echo Miami’s famous beachfront buildings. Moskalenko said the designs create a luscious effect that also suits Los Angeles’ climate. The show also stands out for its use of student performers. Due to the intricacies of Balanchine’s choreography, the students began formally practicing for the show in September, Moore said, though some started even earlier with a summer “boot camp.” Moore added that even for professional dancers, Balanchine’s style is difficult to master, as his compositions rely on a fast tempo and quick flurries of movement. “For ballet lovers there’s a lot to enjoy. It’s not simply pageantry — a lot of real dancing happens,” Moore said. “There’s a lot of energy on stage.” The Nutcracker runs Friday-Sunday, Nov. 30-Dec. 2, at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave. or musiccenter. org/nutcracker. nicholas@downtownnews.com

Apartment Amenities: City and Mountain Views Luxury Appliances & Finishes Central Air & Heating Balconies (Most Units) Basic Cable *All Amenities Under Renovation

RESIDENCES STUDIO • ONE BEDROOM • TWO BEDROOMS PENTHOUSE UNITS • CORPORATE HOUSING

Irish and Cornish traditions. “It’s got this propulsive and playful electric rock sound that really helps propel the show,” Ashley said. Ashley noted that the team considers Come From Away a story about Sept. 12, not Sept. 11. The focus is not on the 2,200 lives lost in the attacks, but instead on how humans can come together for the greater good during a crisis. “I think the experience of watching our show keeps changing as the events of the world keep changing,” Ashley said. “We’re living in such a conflicted moment. I hope the audience thinks about how important it is to be kind to one another and take care of one another.” McGinnis agrees, adding, “It’s not hard to be kind, and once you are kinder, you feel better about yourself. It’s just so easy to smile at someone, or offer to buy them a cup of coffee or open the door for someone.” The show concludes with the “come from aways” returning to Gander, this time on their own accord, where they celebrate their lasting friendships and connections. Come From Away runs Wednesday, Nov. 28-Jan. 6 at the Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or centertheatregroup.org. sean@downtownnews.com