Brentwood News/Century City News September 1, 2023

A Third Majestic Coral Tree Has Fallen In Brentwood Near Vincente Foods and The Presbyterian Church

Community Efforts and Non-Profit Initiatives Address

Increasing Incidences of Falling Coral Trees

By Dolores Quintana

A magnificent coral tree that graced the median near Vicente Foods and Brentwood Presbyterian Church met a tragic fate on Monday when it toppled to the ground, as The Brentwood Community Council reported. Regrettably, such incidents are becoming increasingly frequent along Brentwood medians, attributable to various factors,

including the advancing age of many coral trees.

This is the third coral tree down this year. A storm severely damaged one coral tree in January at San Vicente Blvd and Montana Ave. A second fell onto the road at Westbound San Vicente at Avondale on June 2, only two months ago.

A local non-profit organization with a commitment to preserving and nurturing coral trees has taken significant steps to mitigate the issue. Recent endeavors saw the organization arranging for the trimming of the coral trees, a proactive measure aimed at maintaining their stability. Moreover, their forward-looking approach includes nurturing a nursery with a specific focus on cultivating fifteen coral trees exclusively for the San Vicente median. While these nascent trees hold promise for Brentwood’s future landscape, their current

LAFD Rescue: Injured Mountain Biker Aided by Swift Ground and Air Response

58-Year-Old Mountain Biker Was Injured on West Mandeville Ridge Trail

By Dolores Quintana

The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) sprang into action following a report of a serious mountain biking accident involving a 58-year-old male on the remote West Mandeville Ridge Trail within WestridgeCanyonback Wilderness Park. The accident

took place on July 29 around 3:46 p.m.

With both ground and air response units dispatched, an LAFD Flight Paramedic was lowered from a hovering Fire Department rescue helicopter to reach the injured individual. The rescue required air and ground responders coordination and allowed for a rapid medical assessment, treatment, and patient stabilization at the accident site.

Upon arrival, the ground responders joined forces with the Flight Paramedic to ensure the patient received comprehensive medical attention. They prepared the injured mountain biker for transport by hoisting him into the waiting rescue helicopter.

No further information was available or provided on the status of the victim of the accident or their identity by press time.

growth stage mandates patience. Despite the urgency, these young trees are several years away from attaining the maturity required for transplantation into the median.

Photo Cred. Rich Schmitt

Effective Dates: August 25 - September 25, 2023

Offer Valid May 29 - June 30, 2020 74 75

Bringham Encampment Area Partially Cleaned by LA County Sanitation Last Week

VA Outreach Planned for Vets in Encampment, Call Placed With County Official

By Dolores Quintana

In the most recent development, LA County Sanitation undertook a cleaning operation at the Bringham encampment area last week. While some progress has been made in terms of cleanliness and reduction in size, active campsites were left untouched, and the encampment remains, albeit in a smaller and tidier state. The effort comes as the community seeks further clarification on the future of the

encampment.

As of now, it has been reported that the Veterans Affairs (VA) department is planning additional outreach to veterans within the encampment. However, specific details about the number of remaining campers and the exact count of veterans among them remain unknown. Seeking answers and guidance, community members have been actively engaged with County officials and the VA.

A call has been made to Supervisor Horvath to join a forthcoming community meeting, providing a platform for residents to voice their concerns and inquire about the situation. In light of the ongoing efforts to prepare Los Angeles for the arrival of Hurricane Hilary, it is understandable that immediate responses might be delayed.

As soon as any information becomes available, the community will be duly informed, allowing for a clearer understanding of the situation and the next steps moving forward.

Diesel: A Bookstore in Brentwood Has Been Put Up For Sale After 34 Years of Literary Legacy

Owners Seek Dedicated Successor to Uphold Bookstore’s Community Bonds

By Dolores Quintana

In a heartfelt letter to its cherished patrons, Diesel, A Bookstore in Brentwood, reveals its decision to put the beloved establishment up for sale. The two owners, who have dedicated the past 34 years to nurturing and building the bookstore, express a mix of gratitude and bittersweet sentiment as they share the news. The owners have also made the decision to sell all of their bookstores.

The journey of Diesel began in 1989 with the opening of their first bookstore. With a distinct vision in mind, the founders aimed to create a space that was not only intellectually stimulating but also accessible and engaging for everyone. Their approach stood out from the norm, characterized by a touch of playfulness, a richer selection, and an unwavering commitment to delivering excellent customer service driven by genuine care.

The owners emphasize that their passion for books, people, culture, and society has remained steadfast throughout the years. Their personalized styles, knowledge, and sensibilities have left an indelible mark on Diesel’s identity, fostering a loyal following that resonates with their values.

Having established bookstores in five different communities over the years, the owners acknowledge the need and desire for the intellectual haven they’ve cultivated. While they’ve previously passed the torch to a new owner for one of their locations, the time has now come for them to step back entirely. The owners express their intention to find a devoted successor who will preserve the spirit of Diesel and elevate it to new heights.

The past couple of years, marked by the global pandemic, underscored the pivotal role of Diesel in providing solace and literary companionship to its readers. The owners extend their heartfelt gratitude to the loyal community for their unwavering support during these challenging times.

Acknowledging that their staff’s diverse reading interests, specialties, and sensibilities have contributed to Diesel’s charm, the owners emphasize their excitement about passing on the legacy they’ve built. They envision the new owner carrying the torch with fresh energy and vision, benefiting from the dedicated team.

To potential buyers, the owners convey their desire to find individuals who will honor the bookstore’s legacy and nurture the valuable relationships cultivated over the years. They provide information on how interested parties can submit proposals and express interest on their website.

As Diesel, A Bookstore in Brentwood, prepares for this transition, readers and supporters are invited to reflect on the bookstore’s profound impact on the literary community. The owners express their hope for a smooth transition and aim to accomplish the sale by January of 2024, passing on the legacy to a new chapter in Diesel’s storied journey.

Neighborhood Update Regarding The Two Unhoused Encampments In Brentwood

The Brentwood Community Council Issued This Update In Their Latest Email

By Dolores Quintana

The Brentwood Community Council has given an update about the two encampments of unhoused people in Brentwood.

The encampments situated near the VA and in the Wilshire/Westgate area have garnered significant attention from concerned citizens and local authorities alike. Acknowledging the importance of addressing these encampments and the issues they pose, the community and government agencies are collaborating to find solutions that benefit all stakeholders involved.

Regarding the encampment near the VA, community members and authorities are actively engaged in monitoring the situation. Recognizing the impact on the unhoused individuals and nearby residents and businesses, community members have proactively shared their concerns via emails sent to info@bcc90049.org. The collective effort of keeping the lines of communication open ensures that the situation is thoroughly assessed and addressed.

The appearance of an RV at the encampment earlier this week raised attention. Though not utilized as living quarters, the RV encroached upon the right of way. Prompt actions were taken, and the RV received citations for its infringement. Subsequently, it departed from the location by Thursday. As of Friday afternoon, it had not returned, indicating a proactive response to community concerns.

Managing this encampment falls within the jurisdiction of Los Angeles County. The County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath’s Office and the LA County Sheriff’s Office play vital roles in addressing issues on County land. To ensure effective communication, community members are encouraged to reach out to County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath’s field

Incidents involving illegal activities are under the purview of the LA Sheriff’s West Hollywood Station, reachable at 310855-8850. Emergencies are best reported to 911, while LAPD should be contacted when unlawful activities cross over to the City side. The Senior Lead Officer can also be informed at 34713@lapd.online.

Community collaboration is essential for addressing homelessness effectively. The VA has been actively involved in conducting regular outreach at the encampment, with efforts to move veterans indoors and provide them with assistance.

Efforts to resolve these challenges extend to government officials, who have received requests for intervention. Updates on these efforts will be shared with the community as more information becomes available. The community can visit the organization’s website under the Homeless Resources section for further resources on addressing homelessness.

Shifting focus to the Wilshire/Westgate encampment, a Care+ cleanup was carried out on Monday. This approach involves prior notification to campers, offering social outreach services, and sanitizing the area. The cleanup efforts have resulted in a clear and camper-free area as of August 4, 2023. The commendable leadership of City Councilwoman Traci Park and her team, including Field Representative Michael Amster, played a pivotal role in orchestrating the cleanup. Their dedication to addressing the encampment and ensuring public access to sidewalks while extending support to campers demonstrates the collaborative spirit driving local solutions.

representative, Zac Gaidzik, at zgaidzik@ bos.lacounty.gov.

Great Minds Grow at The Willows Community School

By SuSan Payne

Great minds are growing at The Willows Community School in Los Angeles. Rooted in experiential learning and social values, The Willows believes each child brings the community an extraordinary gift: a curious mind, ready to explore and eager to learn.

To grow that gift, the school challenges students to uncover meaning and significance in the world around them, and to become capable, confident individuals who demonstrate character, engagement and a joyful passion for creative inquiry across a lifetime.

Willows students are a diverse group with unique backgrounds, commuting from 57 zip codes in the Los Angeles area for a robust and meaningful educational experience. They are actively engaged in learning and intellectually curious from developmental kindergarten through eighth grade.

Scientific studies indicate significant benefits to the DK-8 structure. The Willows has three divisions of students with an academic program tailored specifically to the needs of each group: primary (DK through Grade 2), upper elementary (Grades 3-5) and middle school (Grades 6-8).

At every level, students are active and engaged learners who are encouraged to problem solve, think critically, ask questions and take

intellectual and creative risks. At The Willows, students begin to understand the most important lesson of all: as a learner, anything is possible.

“Our campus is open by design, so there’s a lot of space for collaboration and cooperation and creativity. When parents visit, they see how unique the campus is and love it for their children. It’s a very dynamic place where minds grow,” said Lisa Rosenstein, head of school. “As they grow, they develop a sense of connection to the school and community. Having begun education in a place where they feel safe, cared for and connected, helps them later transition to high school and the world beyond.”

Parents choose The Willows for its balanced progressive curriculum that’s adaptable to change and vital in a modern, ever-changing world. Learning is a constantly evolving dialogue between student and teacher, not a predetermined path.

In its 29 years of operation, The Willows has achieved a reputation as one of the pre-eminent independent schools in Los Angeles, known for its highly regarded technology program and educational innovations. In 2014 and 2015, The Willows received the 2014 and 2015 Culver City Private School Award for Excellence.

The Willows boasts 100% digitally active classrooms on campus with teachers who have long tenures of teaching at the school: 32% of teachers have taught at The Willows for 20 years

or more, and 49% of teachers have taught at the school for more than 15.

“Administrators, staff and faculty are accessible to the community and are constantly evaluating our educational programming, working together to create an environment and experience ideal for discovery, inquiry and growth,” Rosenstein said.

Core values of the school include creative inquiry at core, challenging academics in balance and character and community. Each of these core values are deeply embedded into a structured curriculum that allows children to fulfill their intellectual, creative, physical and social-emotional potential.

Willows students learn to build bridges

to the community and learn they are part of a larger world. Through a schoolwide theme each year, Willows students are challenged to think critically and implement their talents to explore that theme into school projects and events. This year, the theme is strength.

Overall, academic programming at The Willows is complemented by an exemplary performing and fine arts curriculum, a full range of athletic teams, a rich and thoughtful social emotional learning and life skills curriculum, and extracurricular activities. For more information on the school, or to plan a visit, go to thewillows.org.

Rock 101 Helps Young Rockers Develop Passion for Learning

By SuSan Payne

Inside the School of Rock West LA is ample opportunity for kids and beginners to learn and experience playing music. From beginning to advance levels of students, School of Rock has a place for every skill level, including adults. The school, devoted to helping aspiring musicians master skills, unleash creativity and develop tools they need to thrive in life, introduces kids to music as young as 3 years old.

Little Wing, for preschoolers and toddlers ages 3 to 5, teaches foundational music skills such as rhythm, song strong structure, melody and dynamics through play. Rookies, for ages 6 to 7 years old, learn fundamentals like chords, rhythm and song structure while exploring different instruments.

At ages 8 to 13, School of Rock offers a Rock 101 Program with continuous open enrollment. Students start learning classic rock on an instrument of choice in a low pressure environment and are introduced to a class of other students who are learning how to have musical conversations with each other. Rock 101’s programming helps young students build

strong musical proficiency before moving to the next level.

School of Rock West LA’s general manager Justin Salmons says kids start to develop their own taste around that age and that learning is critical for developing a passion for music.

“It’s the motor skills, interest and arts, everything comes together right around that age. Kids start finding their own musical taste and experience, and parents usually get a kick when those things align,” Salmons said.

Rock 101’s approach to teaching kids is simple, but approachable starting with weekly private instruction to learn concepts and develop skills and a weekly group rehearsal with other students.

“We get them playing something that rocks, that they are familiar with, and something that they can accomplish right away. Knowing how to play a real song is exciting and that’s a confidence booster for them,” Salmons said.

Salmons, who has been with School of Rock West LA for 12 years, said they’ve built Rock 101 from the ground up and have watched young kids continue programming and advance into musical careers.

While Rock 101 students are usually at the

beginning of their potential for music growth, they also get to experience what advancing in the program looks like as openers for some inschool events.

“We give them a safe comfortable environment and have instructors by their side to give them courage. Parents really get to see how far they’ve come in these environments,” Salmons said. “We put every ounce of passion and love into everything we do. Playing live music is one of my happiest states of being and I want other people to know what that feels like.”

For ages 8 to 18, Performance is the hallmark music program at School of Rock, a weekly rehearsal learning rock music’s iconic songs in a band composed of their peers. Students are assigned songs and parts based on their age, experience and ability to learn new skills and concepts, and get to perform multiple times in front of a live audience. Older teens play at a near professional level.

While some kids choose sports or theatre as an extracurricular, there are many who choose music because of the community — they’ve found their tribe, other kids who love music as much as them.

“For some of those creative, introverted kids, it can be a harder ask to get them to try sports, but if you introduce them to keys or guitar, or singing, their whole social world opens up and they blossom into creative young kids with a passion for music,” Salmons said. “Our older teens play at a near professional level. Whether music is something fun or your passion, School of Rock can help you achieve your musical goals and dreams.”

For more information on enrolling into Rock 101, or to explore other programs for kids or adults in West Los Angeles, visit schoolofrock.com/locations/westla,

St. Matthew’s Parish School Continues Legacy of Excellence

Nestled among the Santa Monica mountains on a 28-acre campus near the Pacific Ocean, St. Matthew’s Parish School believes real excellence happens through rich, immersive lived experiences, and exciting, creative interdisciplinary learning opportunities. Students safely and adventurously explore every day, and learn together through diverse, shared learning opportunities both on campus and in the communities and environments beyond — trying new things, discovering the world around them, and discovering themselves.

New this year is alumna Alley Michaelson, returning to her Pacific Palisades roots as St. Matthew’s Parish School’s Head of School. With an extensive background in education and love for the community, Michaelson started this role in July of 2023.

Top tier faculty provide students with individualized, loving guidance and genuine respect that allows them to reach much farther both safely and confidently, in the pursuit of ideas, answers, and a more fulfilling, deeper sense of understanding and learning.

“What’s most important to me is the focus that St. Matthew’s has on the whole child — the development of the child academically, spiritually, ethically and morally. Their values

and what they believe to be important is what makes this school truly unique,” Michaelson says.

Along with their families, St. Matthew’s students find strong connections and a real feeling of home within a warm, welcoming, inclusive community, united by a sense of belonging and a shared mission of learning, collaboration, and outreach.

“Parents and families choose St. Matthew’s because of our strong values that coexist simultaneously with the future of education that’s been integrated into the curriculum over the years: teaching and learning in a space that has been transformed to adapt to the most recent needs of student brains and effective learning environments in the 21st century,” Michaelson says.

St. Matthew’s educational philosophy is to temper their students’ strong capability with compassion and balance their well-deserved self-assurance with authentic empathy and kindness. Students gain the flexibility to adapt easily and naturally to meet both challenges and opportunities with enthusiasm and in return, look for every chance to give back.

Currently, St. Matthew’s houses 28 classrooms, including an art studio, two music and performing arts classrooms, two science

labs, in addition to two maker/innovation spaces, a 13,000-volume library, a student center, sports and performing arts center with a gym and stage for student productions, a swimming pool, playing field, playgrounds and the church.

“We often hear from high schools that St. Matthew’s students are the most prepared for high school and that reputation is important to us because we believe that what children go on to achieve and what they bring back to their communities is important,” Michaelson says.

Many successful St. Matthew’s School alumni have gone on to accomplish incredible feats including James Kanoff, founder of The

Farmlink Project, which rescues surplus food from farmers and delivers it to food banks and families in need; Ali Riley, an Americanborn New Zealand professional footballer, who plays as a defender for Angel City of the American National Women’s Soccer League; and Katy Tur, an MSNBC anchor, author, and broadcast journalist.

“Children spend a good portion of their developmental and transformative years at our School, and it is important to uncover and realize the potential that buds out of the St. Matthew’s experience,” Michaelson added.

To learn more about the school and its offerings, go to www.stmatthewsschool.com.

Notre Dame, from page 14

In its value-centered culture of learning, NDA provides an engaging, transformative high school experience in which girls develop confidence, growth mindset and faith as they are empowered to rise to their purpose and change the world.

“We empower young women to fearlessly pursue their passions and carve their own path even in traditionally male-dominated fields. Through mentorships and exposure to the outside world, we equip them to break barriers and challenge stereotypes fighting stigmas that may hold them back,” said Lilliam Paetzold, President and Head of Schools at Notre Dame Academy.

“There is a strong and intentional social emotional learning component at NDA to address the needs of girls and teens in today’s society. We believe that education should be a journey of discovery, curiosity and limitless growth,” Paetzold said.

To stay ahead of the evolving world, NDA continuously expands its offerings to be hyper-relevant, embracing new technologies, incorporating cutting-edge topics and forming partnerships with leading organizations in Los Angeles. NDA’s commitment to adaptability ensures that its students are well-prepared to thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

“Our curriculum is built to include experiential learning, signature programs, innovative teaching methods, real-world experiences and a wide range of student clubs — strengthening your child’s

educational journey,” Paetzold said.

While academic standards are set high at NDA, the school nurtures critical thinking, problem-solving and a thirst for knowledge. Dedicated faculty create a dynamic learning environment that goes beyond the classroom. From sports to arts, STEM clubs and community service opportunities, NDA ensures comprehensive development for each of its students.

NDA’s strong athletic program draws students from across Los Angeles with elite coaches and notable highlights:

• Indoor volleyball — three CIF SS Championships, seven league championships, over 50 student athletes have gone on to play at the collegiate level

• Beach volleyball — two IBVL Championships, one Mission League Championship, ranked #6 in Division 1 CIF SS Beach Volleyball Ranking, qualified two pairs for the CIF SS Beach Pairs Championships

• Basketball — 2023 CIF SS Champions, 2023 CIF SS Player of the Year is currently on roster, NDA is returning all starts from the 2023 Championship season, strong college acceptances and scholarships

NDA’s exceptional academic highlights include:

• Rocketry — placed 9th in the National Rocketry Competition, one of only a few all girls’ schools to place in recent years

• Silver medalist for Academic Decathlon team and many individual medals

• DTASC — Drama and Theatre awards

throughout the years

High school graduates of NDA are accepted to highly selective colleges, including ivy league schools studying majors in STEM, computer science, artificial intelligence and architecture, to name a few. After four years of exposure to innovation programs, college prep, academic rigor, quality education, performing arts and sports teams, NDA girls are ready to explore opportunities into adulthood.

Enrollment into the school is simple and seamless. Girls submit an application, take a high school entrance exam, are invited to an interactive interview, and are asked to provide letters of recommendation. Although NDA girls are mostly from Catholic backgrounds, the school has

students from many faiths and spiritual backgrounds.

“At NDA, we provide a collegepreparatory education that equips young women with the knowledge, skills and confidence to excel in higher education and beyond. Our rigorous academic programs, personalized guidance and college counseling empower each of them to embrace their academic potential and become accomplished, well-rounded leaders prepared to thrive in the collegiate world and make a positive impact in society,” Paetzold said.

To learn more about Notre Dame Academy, or to pursue enrollment for your child, visit academy.ndasla.org.

2851 Overland Avenue

Los Angeles, CA 90064

310-839-5289

Visit us at academy.ndasla.org

D I S C O V E R N D A

E M P O W E R E D

T O R I S E W I T H P U R P O S E

UPCOMING EVENTS

S H A D O W D A Y S - 8 t h g r a d e r s .

S e p t e mb e r 7 & 2 1 , O c t o b e r 1 2 & 1 9 , N o v e mb e r 1 4 , a n d D e c e mb e r 7

HOME RECEPTIONS - 6, 7, & 8th graders.

S e p t e mb e r 9 ( S o u t h B a y ) , S e p t e mb e r 2 9 ( We s t c h e s t e r ) &

O c t o b e r 1 1 ( We s t L A ) L a d e r a H e i g h t s T B D , a n d S a n t a M o n i c a T B D

ADMISSIONS TOURS 9 a.m. - 6, 7, & 8th graders.

S e p t e mb e r 1 5 & 2 9 , O c t o b e r 1 3 & 2 0 , a n d N o v e mb e r 3

BOYS & GIRLS LEARN DIFFERENTLY SYMPOSIUM - All ages.

A p r e s e n ta t i o n f r o m t h e G u r i a n I n s t i t u t e o n l e a r n i n g t h r o u g h g e n d e r l e n s e s .

S e p t e mb e r 1 4 : 7 - 8 : 3 0 p m

AUTHOR EVENT WITH CHILDREN'S BOOK WORLD - 2nd-6th graders.

J u l i e B u x b a u m N e w Y o r k T i me s b e s t s e l l i n g a u t h o r o f y o u n g a d u l t n o v e l s .

S e p t e mb e r 2 3 : 9 : 3 0 a m

D I G P I N K - 5 , 6 , 7 , 8 t h g r a d e r s i n v i t e d .

A n e v e n i n g o f v o l l e y b a l l , c o m m u n i t y a n d s c h o o l s p i r i t !

O c t o b e r 9 : 4 - 8 p m

M I D D L E S C H O O L A N D H I G H S C H O O L O P E N H O U SE - A l l a g e s .

S e e N D A i n a c t i o n ! T o u r t h e s c h o o l a n d m e e t o u r v i b r a n t c o m m u n i t y !

O c t o b e r 2 8 : 9 a m o r 1 p m

Sip and Serenade: Wine

Wednesday Concert Series at Coral

Tree Cafe Brentwood

Unwind with Live Music, Delectable Offerings, and Half-Off Wine

By Dolores Quintana

As summer starts to come to an end and fall starts to settle in, the Coral Tree Cafe in Brentwood invites you to unwind and enjoy a delightful Wine Wednesday concert series. This special evening offers live music by the talented Bronsen Vidas, accompanied by an array of specials that include a tantalizing crudité and charcuterie plate, as well as an exclusive offer of 50% off all bottles of wine.

On a cozy August night, you can relax on our heated patio, or if you arrive early, you might secure a spot around the inviting fire pit. The soothing melodies and exquisite flavors make for a perfect midweek treat.

Anytime between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. at Coral Tree Cafe Brentwood, located at 11645 San Vicente Boulevard, you are

Bar Toscana’s Sizzling New Summer Menu Is Ready To Delight Your Senses

Four New Menu Items Have Been Created by Chef Quirino For The Season

By Dolores Quintana

Chef Quirino at Bar Toscana, the sister restaurant of Toscana Brentwood, has once again worked his magic, conjuring up a trio of enticing new summer specials for patrons to try as the summer heats up.

welcome to make new memories and relax among friends and neighbors with a gentle musical accompaniment.

Come, sip, savor, and revel in the harmonious ambiance of Coral Tree Cafe’s Wine Wednesday concert series. For more information, visit the Coral Tree Cafe website or contact the restaurant via phone at (310) 979-8733.

Whether you’re seeking a refreshing appetizer, a zesty seafood delight, or a pasta sensation, these sizzling summer specials are designed to cater to every palate’s desire. A new menu is another opportunity to sample new flavors and keep your palate happy.

These are the newest dishes on Bar Toscana’s summer menu:

Insalata Di Pesca: This dish presents fresh white peaches, arugula, roasted

almond slivers, and goat cheese drizzled with a white balsamic and mint dressing. $26.00

Crudo Al Mezcal: This Dish is hamachi, mezcal, spicy olive oil, grapefruit, pink peppercorn, and micro arugula. $28.00

Carbonara Di Zucchine: Spaghetti and zucchini seasoned with egg yolk, black pepper, and pecorino cheese. $32.00 You can click the link in Bar Toscano’s Instagram bio or call 310 826-0028 for reservations.

A.O.C Brentwood and West Hollywood Offer Striking SAG AFTRA and WGA Members Happy Hour Discount

The 20% Discount Offer Runs From Monday Through Wednesday, 5:30 pm. to 8:30 p.m.

By Dolores Quintana

If you belong to the Screen Actor’s Guild or The Writer’s Guild West, another restaurant is now offering guild members a discount during the strike. A.O.C Brentwood and West Hollywood announced the Happy Hour for guild members on Monday through Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

The offer is 20% off the dinner menu and wines by the glass, which is a great deal, especially at a restaurant with such tasty food

Director Quentin Tarantino Attended A “Barbenheimer”

Double Feature In Westwood

Tarantino Walked Across The Street From Westwood Village To The Bruin Westwood

By Dolores Quintana

and a great atmosphere.

You must present your SAG-AFTRA or WGA card upon arrival to claim this offer. The restaurants welcome reservations, but you can also walk in and claim the discount if you are spontaneous.

A.O.C West Hollywood is located at 8700 West 3rd Street, two blocks east of Robertson. A.O.C. Brentwood is located at 11648 San Vicente Boulevard at the intersection of San Vicente and Darlington Avenue.

Meeting Mental Health Needs: Mind MD Now Accepts Variety of Insurance Plans

By Susan Payne

Across the United States, wait time for mental health care appointments can take months, but that’s an issue that Mind MD in Los Angeles is looking to solve locally with its urgent outpatient services.

Launched over a year ago, Mind MD is a mental health and addiction urgent care center located at 8500 Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills serving the surrounding areas of Culver City, West Hollywood, Hollywood, Santa Monica and Venice.

Mind MD offers outpatient services for residents in Los Angeles, giving people access to urgent mental health and transitional services with its sooner-rather-than-later approach to medical care.

“Make that first appointment with us and in a six-week period, we’ll make sure they are stable and safe, and initiate treatment for when your provider has you scheduled,” Hirt said.

Mind MD does not provide long-term services but is careful when creating short-term treatment plans.

“If someone has deep trauma from childhood, for example, we won’t start therapy and then in two or three months refer them to another provider,” said Hirt. “There’s no steadfast rule, everything is case-by-case.”

Because Mind MD is disciplined to the gap period, the medical office is able to collaborate with community constituents without competitiveness.

“We’re trying to make everything work for everyone. If a program discharged someone, they can be referred to Mind MD and get the immediate support they need for the next stage

of care,” Hirt said.

Mind MD offers telehealth services, hybridmodel services and in-person services.

“We encourage first appointments to be inperson, and then people transition to telehealth depending on the case,” Hirt said. “We take pride in that we can offer both solutions, that’s really important to us.”

As of October, the health center is now able to accept a variety of insurance including Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Magellan Blue Shiel, Aetna, Optum United Health Group and Medicare.

“If someone doesn’t have insurance, we priced our cash prices for initial evaluations very reasonable,” Hirt said. “Our goal is to make mental health care as accessible as possible in terms of appointments and affordability.”

Recently, Mind MD has started offering ketamine infusions for treatment-resistant forms of depression and anxiety.

Mind MD is working toward breaking the stigma of mental health with its central location, street-level welcoming office space. For more information on the wellness center, visit https:// www.mindmdwellness.com/ or call 424-3079504 to make an appointment.

For individuals going through crisis or danger, find the closest emergency department near you, call 9-1-1 or call the suicide and crisis lifeline at 9-8-8.

Acclaimed director Quentin Tarantino showed his support for “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” and took in a double feature of Barbenheimer at two Westwood cinemas. The ‘Kill Bill” director was seen buying tickets for both movies with his friend and co-host of the Video Archives Podcast, director Roger Avary. The ticket-buying moment was captured in a photo tweeted by Saul Gonzalez, Host and correspondent for KQED’s, The California Report. Tarantino and Avary’s love for cinema and enthusiasm for the two films was further confirmed by The Video Archives Podcast, who retweeted Gonzalez’s tweet and said that their hosts were just doing what they loved to do best.

Tarantino and Avary walked across the street from the Westwood Village Cinema

to the Fox Bruin, which, coincidentally, was the setting for a scene in Tarantino’s last film, “Once Upon A Time In Hollywood.” In the scene, Sharon Tate, coincidentally played by “Barbie” star Margot Robbie, snuck into the Fox Bruin theater to watch an audience watch one of her films, “The Wrecking Crew.”

“Barbie” director Greta Gerwig and star Margot Robbie posted a photo of their tickets for their opening day Barbenheimer double feature to show support for “Oppenheimer” in a show of cinema solidarity. The meme seems to be working as the two films had the fourth largest opening weekend in history, and to date, “Barbie” has earned $366,422,042, and “Oppenheimer” has earned $181,420,520.

Los Angeles City Council Votes To Approve Motion To Call Halt To Bulgari Hotel Approval Process

Proposed Hotel Would Be Built In Benedict Canyon, CD5 Yaroslavky Authored Motion

By Dolores Quintana

The Los Angeles City Council has made a pivotal decision by voting 8 to 6 in favor of a motion that calls for the city’s planning director to halt the ongoing approval process for developer Gary Safady’s Bulgari Hotel project. This vote is a substantial setback for one of the city’s most controversial development projects.

The vote took place during Wednesday’s City Council meeting. It was the second time this year that the council has considered the motion from Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky, a vocal opponent of the project. The council was deadlocked at 7-7 in the first vote that was held in May of this year. Wednesday’s vote was 8 to 6.

Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky had this to say after the vote in the council chambers

on Wednesday, “Today, the Los Angeles City Council stood with hundreds of community members and environmental leaders who have been fighting for years to protect the Santa Monica Mountains from this hotel. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues for their support.”

Among the problems that residents of the canyon and Yaroslavky see with the project are potential environmental damage, opening up the Santa Monica Mountains to commercial development, and questions of propriety regarding a lobbyist for the project who

was married to Shawn Bayliss, who was the Planning and Land Use Deputy for CD 5 under Paul Koretz.

Councilmembers who voted for the motion are Eunisses Hernandez from CD1, Bob Blumenfeld from CD3, Nithya Raman from CD4, Marqueece Harris-Dawson from CD5, Hugo Soto-Martinez from CD13, CD5 Katy Yaroslavky, and Tim McCosker from CD15.

Council member Imelda Padilla, from CD 6, who was newly elected to the council, abstained from the vote. The one council

member who voted differently this time was CD11’s council member, Traci Park.

As we previously reported, the motion states that Yaroslavky is “requesting the Director, Department of City Planning (DCP), to consider rescinding the initiation of a General Plan Amendment (GPA) for the Retreat at Benedict Canyon Project.” The motion’s passage does not stop the project but has put the brakes on it.

Bulgari Hotels has not responded to requests for comment.

Book Review: Zev’s Los Angeles

got a much-needed renovation. The Music Center and the LA Opera received the support they needed to thrive.

I just finished Zev Yaroslavsky’s memoir, Zev’s Los Angeles, from Boyle Heights to the Halls of Power. In an age of short attention spans, let me apologize in advance for the length of this book review. But Zev Yaroslavsky led a long and highly productive political career that deserves proper ink. His history is our history.

I highly recommend Zev’s Los Angeles to anyone who cares about the future of Los Angeles, especially those considering getting into politics or public service. I always liked Zev. He was simply Zev, always there, plain-spoken and practical. He never came across as your careful politician, picking his words oh-so-carefully so as not to offend. If he thought something, he said it.

Nor did Zev ever come across as a schemer seeking personal glory or gain. His mission was to figure out how to provide the greatest good to the greatest number of people – a classic definition of what democracy is supposed to be all about. For 30-plus years, we were blessed to have great public servants like Tom Bradley, Marvin Braude, Cindy Miscikowski, Bill Rosendahl, Mike Feuer, Richard Riordan, Antonio Villaraigosa, and Zev Yaroslavsky. Theirs was a golden era in Los Angeles in many respects.

Zev’s book gives the reader an insider’s look at all Zev helped get done while in office. It’s a rather remarkable list, really. While reading this book, you will feel like you are right there in the meetings with him as he dashed about, pulling every lever of power he could in pursuit of a good cause.

Thirty Plus Years of Progress

What follows is a partial list of much Zev impacted, in no particular order, while serving as a city councilman and county supervisor. LA hosted the highly successful 1984 Olympics. LACMA became a worldclass art destination. The Hollywood Bowl

Disney Hall opened. So did The Broad Museum downtown and the BroadStage in Santa Monica. Huge swaths of open land in the Santa Monica Mountains got saved, parcel by parcel, for perpetuity. We bounced back quickly from the Northridge Earthquake. Needed police reform was pushed through. Limits were placed on development. Oil drilling off the Palisades got stopped.

The West LA VA, which was being proposed as commercial development –the equivalent of two Century Cities – got saved for the originally intended purpose of providing services to veterans. Measures M and R brought about massive improvements in public transportation, with over two-thirds of voters approving sales tax increases each time. Zev was always a champion for fiscal responsibility. He helped save the county and its healthcare system from bankruptcy.

During all these episodes and achievements, Zev was a central player, working the phones, driving across town to meet with other key players, meeting with the public, and taking the lead

During this same time period, The Getty Center and The Skirball Center opened, further enhancing LA’s reputation as a worldclass destination. Zev is quick to not take credit for either of these accomplishments: Those were Marvin Braude’s and Cindy Miscikowski’s projects, said Zev.

The Early Years Politics was very personal for Zev. His family upbringing had a lot to do with that. His parents came to LA from Ukraine in the 1920s with nothing, seeking to escape the growing anK SemiKsm in Eastern Europe. Later they both became teachers.

The Yaroslavsky family settled in Boyle Heights, where Zev grew up loving baseball and the Dodgers. He thought one day he might succeed Vin Scully as the Dodgers’ play-by-play radio announcer. His parents imbued him with a love for music; Zev took

oboe lessons at Bancroh Junior High School (he later graduated from Fairfax High School).

As a student at UCLA in the late sixties and early seventies, Zev became a leading student activist protesting Russia’s treatment of Jews. Many Jews wanted to leave Russia at the Kme, but they weren’t allowed to. In an early move that illustrates Zev Yaroslavsky’s boldness, in 1971, a longhaired Zev piloted a small boat up to the side of a Russian cargo ship that was anchored in the Port of Los Angeles. He used toilet plungers stuck to the much larger vessel to hold his own tiny boat steady.

Zev wanted to paint “Save Soviet Jews” on the side of the Russian freighter, but Russian sailors above started pouring water on Yaroslavsky below. Knowing he had little time to complete his task, Zev had to

settle for “Let Jews Go” and a Star of David. Before he departed the scene, Zev snapped a photo of his “penmanship” and gave a copy of the photo to the LA Times, which ran it.

Zev is an opportunist, and I mean that only as a compliment. During his political career, whenever he saw an opportunity to do something he thought was right, he simply went for it when generating desired publicity for the causes he backed – or negative publicity for the causes he opposed.

Many politicians are very cautious. Not Zev.

In his first run for City Council in LA’s 5th District in 1975, nobody gave him much of a chance. He was considered too young, and he was going up against two City Hall insiders. A mix of persistence and luck got him across the finish line – at age 26 – and he was handily elected (or reelected) every election after that.

The “Zev Treatment”

Then, when others decided a cause was hopeless, Zev jumped in and got things

Book Review, see page 21

Founding Publisher

Brentwood residents Dr. Milton Krisiloff and Flora Gil Krisiloff, seen at Zev’s recent book signing in Brentwood. Flora worked for Zev Yaroslavsky for several years, heading up homeless initiatives.

Zev Yaroslavsky discusses his book, Zev’s Los Angeles, From Boyle Heights to the Halls of Power. A Political Memoir, at a recent book-signing event at Tom Safran’s residence in Brentwood.

moving, then with a successful result. I got a personal taste of the “Zev Treatment” one time. It was September of 2008, and there was an election coming that November. Measure R was on the ballot.

Measure R called for a half-cent sales tax that would fund several transportation upgrades, including finishing the Expo Line, which would connect downtown to Santa Monica, and building the Purple Line, which will soon connect UCLA and the West Los Angeles VA with the rest of Greater Los Angeles. Measure R required a two-thirds vote in order to be approved.

In late September of 2008, I got a call from Flora Gil Krisiloff, who was (and still is) well-known in Brentwood. She had headed up the Brentwood Community Council and was now working for Zev, spearheading county homelessness initiatives. “Zev wants you to interview him on the need to pass Measure R,” is how I recall the conversation starting. I’m, of course, paraphrasing here; it has been a while. “And he wants you to put this on the front page of the next Brentwood News,” continued Flora.

Over the years, people when asked if they could appear on the front page of the Brentwood News, but these requests usually came with a statement like, “We’d really appreciate it.”

This time it was different; Flora’s request for front-page treatment sounded like a direct order, not a request. This wasn’t the Flora I knew; I could tell she was delivering a message from Zev. I told Flora we were just days away from going to press and that we already had another subject picked out for October’s front page. Flora was insistent: Move that story to November.

“This is going to be a very close election,” persisted Flora. “Zev needs you to do this NOW. Can you come in tomorrow and interview him?” Wow. I couldn’t say no. I got off the phone, walked down the short hallway of our small and crowded office, and informed our editorial team we were going to change the front page.

The team freaked out, naturally; a lastminute change on deadline adds significant stress to an already tense situation. Plus, we had to explain to someone else he or she just got bumped. The next day I reported

to Zev’s office, as instructed, and we talked about Measure R. A few days later, the article came out. When it did, Flora called to tell me how relieved Zev was. “Relieved?”

That seemed like an odd thing to say.

Flora said I made Zev nervous because I took very few notes during the interview, and he wasn’t sure I was going to do a good job with the article if I didn’t capture all the detail and nuance. But Zev said I did a really good job, according to Flora.

Now I was the one who was relieved. Almost nothing is more awful than being told by a source you got something wrong after a story gets published. Conversely, it’s very satisfying when someone calls to say you really got it right.

As it so happened, I bumped into Zev at an event at the BroadStage in Santa Monica some Kme in November, maybe six weeks after the article appeared. I think it might have been the grand opening of The BroadStage. By now, the Measure R victory was in hand – by a margin of just a few hundred votes. But a win is a win, and Zev was obviously very happy.

We chatted a bit, and Zev said something I’ve never forgotten. He said it was possible, given how close the vote was, that the article in the Brentwood News is what put Measure R over the top. There’s no way to know if that’s true or not, but his saying it surely made me feel like the Brentwood News had contributed something important to the outcome.

Zev also said he liked the way I referred to him in the article as “an old war horse.” He told me his staff was worried that he would find that phrase offensive, but he said liked it. “I am an old war horse,” he told me.

The Great Recession

Almost immediately after the Measure R victory, the economic collapse of 20082009 – the Great Recession – began to set in. The Brentwood News was suddenly losing advertisers left and right, and people I owed money to were suddenly telling me that, from now on, I had to pay cash on the barrelhead and make meaningful monthly payments on past due amounts.

Things just kept getting worse and worse. We cut our publishing frequency, laid off staff, and tried to collect money that was owed us from advertisers who simply vanished. In 2009, we shut down. Zev’s book includes a chapter on the collapse

of the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Hospital in 2007. Despite huge efforts, the hospital shutdown couldn’t be avoided, according to Zev.

Zev wrote that he faced much anger among members of the WaJs and Willowbrook communities at the Kme the hospital closed. He felt he and the rest of the Board of Supervisors had let that part of town down. He is still haunted by this debacle; it’s clear. I understand the feeling completely; I felt like I had really let the Brentwood

community down when we stopped publishing in 2009. We crawled back to life – barely – in 2010, in a much lesser form. After a few more years of struggle, I sold what remained of the Brentwood News to Mirror Media Group, which basically took over my remaining printing debts. Even to this day, when I try to make sense of all the years and money I had put into my publishing company, I sometimes take solace in the notion that at least we helped get Measure R passed. I know we helped many other good causes, too, but when Zev tells you something is real, it seems more real. So thank you for that, Zev. Happy to be of service.

Host Tom Safran fields questions for Zev at a recent book signing.

October of 2008: Stop the presses!

New Poké Restaurant Opens in Westwood Village With Hot Cheeto Crunch On The Menu

Pokitomik Promises

“Explosive” Flavors Mixed With Traditional Poké

PokiTomik, a restaurant serving pokéinspired seafood cuisine, has opened its doors at Westwood Village.

Serving burritos, bowls, and tacos, the more traditional items on the menu include craftyour-own seafood salads with salmon, tuna, and shrimp as your main course. The burrito and taco meals provide customers with more unique and “explosive” crunch toppings other than nori wraps, such as Hot Cheeto and Cheese Cheeto coating options for the texture and taste.

According to its website, PokiTomik combines the Hawaiian dish of seasoned, cubed fish with their “own explosive, delicious, modern and creative bomb”. Traditionally, poké began with centuries of fishermen dicing and salting their raw, skinned, and deboned catches at sea. Served with sides and seasoning, the dish became popularized in the mainland from 2012 to 2015, with over 200 poké restaurants functioning in Los Angeles alone by 2017.

Lorenzo California Brings Authentic Italian Sandwiches, Pasta, and Salads To Beverly Hills

PokiTomik was originally founded in November 2017 by Sargis “Sunny” Kopushyan, a high school dropout-turned successful entrepreneur of Armenian heritage. It’s Westwood restaurant marks its fifteenth location since the restaurant began franchising, with shops across the San Fernando Valley, Ventura, and San Diego. The company describes itself as “a people first organization bringing affordable, high quality, and fresh poké to hungry guests”.

The newest restaurant is located at 1135 Westwood Blvd in the heart of the Village, open to customers from Monday to Sunday from 11 in the morning to 10 in the evening. Customers have the option to order food and customize their unique meals from any of its locations online for pickup and delivery.

Sandwiches In The Style of Florence Amaze With Fresh Ingredients and Crisp Bread

Lorenzo California is an Italian sandwich shop that is very authentic and specializes in sandwiches in the style of Florence, the capital of Tuscany. The shop had little fanfare when it opened about four months ago. However, the word is spreading about this special sandwich restaurant that also serves pasta fresche, or made-to-order pasta, salads, and desserts.

Lorenzo California is located at 9529 S Santa Monica Blvd.

Their website states, “Lorenzo California is committed to serving you the best Italian cuisine possible. We take pride in using only the highest quality ingredients, and our dishes are made with care and attention to detail. Our menu is inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Tuscany, and we strive to bring the authentic flavors of Italy to your table. Whether you’re craving a classic focaccie ripiene, pasta freshie,

or a cold crisp salad, we’ve got something for everyone. Our goal is to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where you can savor the taste of traditional Italian recipes, just like your Nonna used to make. Come visit us and experience a little piece of Italy right here in Beverly Hills.”

When they say that the sandwiches’ meats are sliced thin, they aren’t joking. The Italian meats are sliced paper thin, and the meats are so soft. The bread is crisp yet airy, and the sandwich itself tastes incredibly fresh. The crunch of the crust gives way to a buttersoft interior. The restaurant does have daily specials, Wednesday’s special was either a tripe sandwich, don’t be scared, it sold out, or a Caprese sandwich.

The shop is small but does have seating inside and out. It also has canned and bottled drinks and a brand of kettle-cooked chips. Such quality is not cheap, but the sandwiches are worth it. The Cotto comes with Levanti ham prosciutto, truffle cream, fresh brie cheese, lemon zest, and fresh pepper. The service is friendly and quick. There are nine different sandwiches to order on a daily basis in addition to the specials. You can satisfy your premium sandwich cravings with Lorenzo California.

New Data Challenges Misconceptions About Unhoused Individuals in the Golden State

California’s Homeless Population Predominantly Comprised of Locals

By Dolores Quintana

According to a recent study from the University of California, San Francisco, the state of California does not attract “swarms of unhoused people from other states.” The largest study on the subject since the 1990s found that 90% of unhoused individuals in California became homeless in the state, with 75% experiencing homelessness in the same county where they currently reside. Nine out of ten of those surveyed lost their last housing in California. The primary reasons for homelessness are the inability to afford housing, health issues, and employment challenges. Almost half of those surveyed were looking for work.

Margot Kushel, MD, Director of UCSF BHHI and principal investigator of CASPEH, said, “The results of the study confirm that far too many Californians experience homelessness because they cannot afford housing. Through thousands of survey responses and hundreds of in-depth interviews, the study’s findings reflect the incalculable personal costs of homelessness. Our policy recommendations aim to inform solutions to the homelessness crisis.”

Evictions are a significant contributor to the rise in homelessness. In the last six months, 96.4% of the 39,677 evictions filed in the city were due to “non-payment of rent.” This indicates that many unhoused individuals in California are not outsiders but rather locals who have lost their housing due to financial constraints.

Twenty-one percent of leaseholders cited a loss of income as the main reason that they lost their last housing. Among non-leaseholders, 13% noted a conflict within the household, and 11% noted not wanting to impose.

For leaseholders, economic considerations frequently interacted with social and health crises. For example, participants (or household members) health crises led them to lose their job.

Many were unaware of local and state programs designed to help people at risk of homelessness or to help bring them off the street. The report states, “A low proportion of those who entered homelessness from housing situations had sought or received homelessness prevention services. Many participants were unaware of these services. Overall, 36% of participants had sought help to prevent homelessness, but most sought help from friends or family rather than non-profits or government agencies.”

Most of them are Californians facing significant financial hardships and cannot earn enough to afford housing within their own state. The homeless population in California consists of a diverse group, with individuals from certain vulnerable backgrounds, those who have experienced trauma, and racial minorities being overrepresented. The median age of participants in homeless services is 47, and Black and Native American or Indigenous individuals are overrepresented compared to the overall California population—thirty-five percent of participants identified as Latino/x.

Forty-five percent of all participants reported their health as poor or fair; 60% reported a chronic disease. Over one-third of all participants (34%) reported a limitation in an activity of daily living, and 22% reported a mobility limitation.

Prolonged periods of homelessness are also common, with 39% of participants experiencing their first episode of homelessness. The median length of homelessness is 22 months, and over one-third meet federal chronic homelessness criteria.

Many unhoused individuals have faced discrimination, exposure to violence, and incarceration, as well as mental health conditions and substance use issues. These factors compound to increase their vulnerability to homelessness. Around 72% of participants experienced physical violence in their lifetime,

and 24% experienced sexual violence, with higher rates among cis-women and transgender or nonbinary individuals.

The high housing costs and low income left the participants in the survey vulnerable to homelessness. In the six months before experiencing homelessness, the median monthly household income was $960, indicating significant financial instability. Many participants entered homelessness from nonleaseholder or leaseholder housing situations, highlighting the lack of stable housing options available.

In conclusion, the homeless population in California is predominantly made up of Californians who have faced various challenges, including financial hardships, health issues, and experiences of discrimination

and trauma. Addressing homelessness requires comprehensive and compassionate solutions that address the root causes of homelessness and provide support and resources to those in need.

According to statistics quoted by Kenneth Meija, Los Angeles City Controller, on his Twitter profile, confirming some of the data from the study, “From Feb 1 to July 31, 2023, in the City of LA: 39,677 evictions were filed, 96.40% were for “non-payment of rent,” 99.88% were “At-Fault,” 93.46% came w/ a 3-day notice, $155.7M accumulated rent owed. Meija listed the number of evictions filed in each council district’s first six months of the year. In Council District 5, there were 3,857 evictions filed. In Council District 11, there were 2,699. In Council District 10, there were 3,697.