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Perry Ellis’ Daughter

Brentwood Rallies Against State Wildfire Rule Requiring Tree and Plant Removal

Critics Argue

Vegetation-Clearing Mandate Ignores Local Needs

Designer’s Customized French-Inspired Home Comes With Entertainment Pavilion

Brentwood residents turned out in large numbers Thursday to oppose proposed state wildfire regulations they say would harm neighborhoods and the environment while doing little to prevent future disasters.

The meeting, held by the California Board of Forestry’s Zone Zero Committee, was the only one scheduled in the region and drew strong criticism from Westside communities. The proposed rules would require homeowners in high-risk areas to clear vegetation within five feet of their homes, creating what the state calls an “ember-resistant defensible zone.”

Luxury handbag designer Tyler Ellis has put her customized Brentwood estate on the market for just under $32.4 million, nine years after purchasing the property for $12.3 million and completing an extensive redesign. The luxury handbag designer, daughter of Perry Ellis and screenwriter Barbara Gallagher, worked with original architect William Hefner and interior designers the Archers to overhaul and expand the French-inspired residence.

Originally built in 2005, the gated compound now includes an enlarged main house and a newly added entertainment pavilion, together offering seven bedrooms and 11 bathrooms across roughly 11,800 square feet. The home sits on more than a half-acre surrounded by tall cypress trees for added privacy.

flexibility to craft fire-prevention strategies that balance safety with environmental preservation.

Speakers at the meeting argued that the regulations adopt a “one-size-fits-all”

Italian artist Paola Pivi. The interior layout features a formal dining room anchored by a Studio Molen chandelier, a lacquered blue library, and a black-accented gourmet kitchen equipped with a La Cornue range, subway tile, and bronze hardware.

Los Angeles City Councilwoman Traci

about the Zone Zero proposal are available at www.zonezerofacts.org. The Brentwood Community Council said in their newsletter that yard signs opposing the regulation

“When You Can’t Do Anything, Do Something”: An Interview with Carla

Visitors enter through reeded-glass doors that lead into a dramatic foyer highlighted by a pink feathered bear sculpture from

Upstairs, the primary suite includes its own den, dual walk-in closets, and two bathrooms. The property previously appeared in Architectural Digest in 2021 following the redesign.

D. Peter Mac and Mauricio Umansky of The Agency are listing the home.

can be requested by contacting local neighborhood associations while supplies

Liber on the SAMI Foundation

After the Sudden Loss of Her Daughter Sami, Carla

Liber Launches the Sami Foundation to

O.J. Simpson Estate Agrees to Pay Goldman Family

$58 Million After Decades-Old Judgment

Estate Executor Reverses Earlier Stance and Accepts Wrongful-Death Claim

Bring Art, Music, and Hope to Kids Who Need It Most

Efforts to resolve one of the nation’s most famous civil judgments advanced this week after the executor of O.J. Simpson’s estate agreed to pay nearly $58 million to the family of Ron Goldman, according to newly filed court documents reviewed by ABC News.

with schools and community programs. In this conversation with reporter Dolores Quintana, Liber reflects on Sammy’s quiet and natural artistic brilliance, why creativity is essential for young people, and how remembrance can live on as access and opportunity.

nearly three decades of accrued interest. The family had initially sought $117 million when the claim was filed in 2021, but negotiated the lower amount with the estate in recent months.

“This is just the beginning,” Rodney adds. “We want every child with a creative spark to feel seen, supported, and celebrated—just like Sami always made others feel. We’ll never stop missing her, but through this work, her spirit continues to make the world a more beautiful place.”

Dolores Quintana (DQ): For readers meeting you for the first time, could you introduce yourself?

In the wake of an unthinkable loss, Carla Liber has channeled grief into purpose with the SAMI Foundation, Supporting Art, Music & Imagination, created in memory of her daughter, Sami. The nonprofit moves quickly to put brushes, canvases, and instruments directly into kids’ hands through art kits inspired by their daughter, classroom supply grants, and partnerships

Simpson, who died in April 2024 at age 76, was acquitted in the 1995 criminal trial for the killings of Nicole Brown Simpson and 25-year-old Ron Goldman. A civil jury later found him liable for both deaths and ordered him to pay $33.5 million, most of which went uncollected during his lifetime.

approved so far: Goldman’s and the IRS’s. Federal tax obligations will be paid first, LaVergne said. A separate $636,945 claim from the state of California has been rejected, leaving the state to pursue any repayment through the courts.

Estate representative Malcolm LaVergne has accepted Fred Goldman’s long-standing creditor claim for $57,997,858.12, a figure that reflects the original civil judgment plus

Carla Liber (CL): I’m Carla Liber. My husband, Rod, and I are native Southern Californians—we’ve been married 20 years and have two daughters, Ava and Sami. I was a stay-at-home mom active in our schools and community; Rod worked in film and later in real estate so he could be present for the girls. We’re speaking from Miami, where we just dropped Ava at college.

connection to art.

LaVergne told TMZ that he intends to raise funds by selling Simpson’s possessions at auction, though the amount that can ultimately be recovered is still uncertain. Some personal items have reportedly been stolen, and attorneys are working to locate and reclaim them.

The executor’s decision represents a sharp turn from earlier statements; immediately after Simpson’s death, LaVergne said he did not intend to pay the Goldman judgment. He now plans to ask the court to approve an administrative fee for Fred Goldman, who has helped manage aspects of the estate’s affairs.

DQ: Tell me about Sami, especially her

Only two creditor claims have been

CL: From the time she could hold a pencil, she drew—flowers, faces, little scenes—completely absorbed. She took a few classes, but mostly she was selftaught: sketchbooks, YouTube clips, and hours with music on and a pen in hand. We’re still finding her work—beautiful ink studies tucked into grandparents’ houses and old notebooks. She also loved

Fred Goldman has said repeatedly that the civil case remains his only path to justice for his son. The estate’s acceptance of the claim is the closest he has come in 27 years to receiving meaningful payment on the judgment.

photography, fashion, and makeup; she had a natural eye and shared it generously

Did that visual sense show up at

Absolutely. She joined the yearbook in eighth grade and, by 10th grade, teachers asked her to apply for editor-in-chief, a role usually reserved for seniors. She had a real gift for layout and

Park, through her legislative deputy Sarah

Three to Zero Vote Taken to Demolish the Long-Vacant Barry Building

L.A.’s Building and Safety Commissioners Rejects Appeals of Plan

BY JEFF HALL

On Nov. 18, the Los Angeles Board of Building and Safety Commissioners voted 3-0 to allow the Barry Building at 11973 San Vicente to be demolished. An earlier decision had given a green light to the proposed demolition by the property owners, the Munger family.

An appeal was filed by “Angelenos for Historic Preservation,” seeking to spare the Barry Building from the wrecking ball. Several Brentwood residents attended the hearing downtown and spoke in favor of demolishing the building.

Lauren Cole of South Brentwood said the building had “been a blight on Brentwood for 15 years” and remains a “scar on our community.” She also cited fire danger.

Pamela Brown, also of South Brentwood, said nobody remembered the bookstore (Duttons) anymore and that it was time to look to the future.

One speaker, Birdie Pompan, said homeless people had been living inside the Barry Building, posing a fire risk. One day, a homeless individual hopped over a fence at the back of the property, appearing in the backyard of her Saltair Terrace home. Pompan argued that allowing the building to remain in its current condition was “simply not safe.”

It was noted by one speaker that everyone speaking in favor of demolition lived in Brentwood, while opponents of the demolition all came from outside Brentwood.

In the early days of Green Hollow Square, the proposed project included a retail village with luxury condos. Charlie Munger, now deceased, was adamant that the Barry Building had to go in order to make room for the new project.

But opponents successfully blocked Munger, and eventually he gave up on the project in 2013. In 2016, the building was declared unsafe by the city, and the few remaining tenants had to leave. The building was then boarded up and remains so today.

A lawyer for the Munger family, Ed Casey, said it was “infeasible” to rehab the building to bring it up to code. The cost to fix the building far exceeds the value of the building itself, according to Casey.

The Munger family now says it simply wants to tear down the building and sell the property.

The appellants, under the banner of “Angelenos for Historic Preservation,” said the Mungers had effectively allowed the building to rot over the last decade, making the pro-demolition argument more compelling. The Mungers are “running out the clock,” one speaker said.

Appellants made several arguments in favor of keeping the building in place:

● The building represents important Los Angeles history that should be preserved.

● It would be relatively easy and inexpensive to rehab the building – just $379,000 (vs. the $17 million estimated by the Mungers);

● The existing building could be integrated into any new development proposal, and

● There was no urgency to demolish the building now, given that a new owner might want to keep it or apply once again to tear it down.

Lawyers representing Angelenos for Historic Preservation had delivered a last-minute document the day before the hearing (which didn’t go over well with the commissioners or the Munger team). In that document, the appellants claimed the

Barry Building could be rehabilitated for $379K.

This argument met with significant skepticism from the Munger team and at least one commissioner, Moises Rosales, who said there was “no effing way” the building could be fixed up for this small amount of money.

Members of the board made it clear that safety was their top priority. After very little discussion, the vote to allow the demolition to proceed was unanimous.

Eric Rywalski, a lawyer for Tom Safran & Associates – who had spoken on behalf of demolition at the hearing – said there is still the possibility of one more appeal in this matter, so the demolition isn’t yet a done deal.

Rywalski said he couldn’t predict how long any future appeals process might take.

It’s Holiday Season

is a special, celebratory indulgence

Food is the heart of the holiday season! It brings people together, captures the festive spirit, and serves as the centerpiece of every celebration.

Effective dates: 11/30/2025 to 12/31/2025

Ser ving the C ommunity For 77 Years

74 75

The Munger Project: It’s Time to Start Talking About a Retirement Community

The Barry Building – also known as the Munger Building or the Duttons Bookstore Building – has been boarded up for nearly 10 years.

The building is located on the north side of San Vicente at Saltair, close to Bundy.

A demolition permit was recently issued, which faced an appeal filed by Angelenos for Historic Preservation. On November 18, the Building and Safety Commission denied the appeal. This means, as of now, the demolition plans are approved.

Opponents still have one more chance to appeal and block the demolition, so this isn’t a fully done deal. But it feels like, soon enough, something’s going to happen at this location.

It seems to me the Brentwood community would be smart to define what it wants for the property, hoping a prospective developer might buy into our community’s collective vision.

What if we came up with a plan of our own and told prospective developers we’d love to see them come in and build our dream project?

No developer wants to fight with the community it hopes to become part of. That’s what caused Charlie Munger to finally drop his plans for Green Hollow Square. The opposition wore him down.

If a new developer knew his or her company would be welcomed, that would be a huge improvement over how things normally get done. These NIMBY vs. Developer fights often drag on for years, dividing the community along the way. Usually, a developer proposes something. Then all hell breaks loose. Instead of reacting to someone else’s plan, what if we came up with a plan of our own instead? If we don’t come up with a good plan, we could be at the mercy of some developer’s plan we don’t like.

Leaving the place vacant for another 10 years surely isn’t a very satisfactory option.

Given the housing shortage in LA, there will be enormous pressure to turn this property into a gigantic apartment complex, traffic be damned.

As long-time readers of my “Brentwood Beat” column know, every year or so, I propose that the ideal solution for this location would be a retirement home/ assisted living facility.

A retirement home would generate almost no traffic, removing a huge obstacle any proposed retail center, apartments, or condos would face. Fears about traffic were a key reason Green Hollow Square stalled. A retirement village overcomes this objection.

There is currently no retirement/assisted living home in Brentwood, which means those who need to move into a retirement/ assisted living facility are forced to live

elsewhere.

That seems a shame.

Many of our oldsters have lived in Brentwood for many decades, and they love it here. I’m guessing most don’t want to move to the Valley or Santa Monica or Orange County, or the desert in their remaining years. They’d rather stay right here – in Brentwood.

I envision a three-story building surrounding all four corners of the property – with a big, open-air gathering place inside. The new buildings would provide a mix of bigger, medium-sized, and smaller units, accommodating different levels of affordability. I am projecting 350 units, total.

Once you get inside the complex, you’d emerge into an open-air center with plenty of green grass, a walking path around the perimeter, and maybe even a public swimming pool – or at least a wading pool for little kids. Not everyone in Brentwood owns a swimming pool.

As part of this proposed development, I can envision a small community theater (we don’t have one of these) and an indoor/ outdoor beer garden (we don’t have one of these, either). Our beer garden could be coffee shop (like Early World) by day and a beer garden starting at 5 p.m.

And, of course, we’d all like to see a bookstore return to this location.

We’d want some cute little courtyards here and there throughout the complex, making our new development a nice little adventure for pedestrians – and residents. Older people like to play Bocce Ball. We can include a Bocce Ball court. I’m calling this concept “Brentwood Commons.”

Any commercial activities open to the public would have to be kept on the light side, so as to avoid excessive traffic or parking issues. Parking should be below ground.

Brentwood Commons could become a wonderful gathering place. Our retirees will want the kinds of amenities I’m describing. They will like bumping into younger people (and our younger people will benefit from the bumping).

As part of the housing mix, let’s include 25% affordable housing for public servants (police, fire, teachers, nurses, etc.). Many of our public servants drive in from way too far away. They can’t afford to live in Brentwood.

If a fire or some other disaster strikes, wouldn’t it be comforting to know many

of our first responders live right here in Brentwood in units they can afford? We want to make our public servants part of the community.

By integrating affordable housing into the retirement village, our new developer can take advantage of available tax benefits, causing the project to pencil out better.

Every time I suggest a retirement home for this location – which has been many times now, spanning many years – I always get a very favorable response. I’ve literally been stopped on the streets of Brentwood by people I don’t know, asking me when the retirement home will get built.

Brentwood has an aging population – as does our entire country. I think the demand for units will be there. I’ve done some research on retirement homes – the answers you can get using AI are quite amazing – and retirement homes can be very profitable businesses.

Several have floated the name of Brentwood resident Rick Caruso as a possible “white knight” who would buy and develop the Munger property.

But recently, Caruso said his company would no longer build in LA because of the cost and regulatory requirements. Maybe he could be persuaded to make an exception.

Perhaps an even more ideal candidate to build Brentwood Commons would be Tom Safran & Associates (TSA). Tom Safran, a Brentwood resident, is a world-class expert when it comes to developing affordable units in institutional settings.

TSA is building several units for veterans over at the VA. I’ve seen them, and these units are top quality all the way. The new place TSA built at the corner of Missouri and Bundy is fabulous. I have a friend who lives in a Safran-built affordable housing complex over in Hollywood, and she raves about the place.

Maybe the Munger heirs would consider throwing in the land in return for an ownership stake in the new development. For this to happen, I think the Mungers would have to know, in advance, there will be no fight this time.

Let’s try something new this time. Let’s come up with a plan we’d happily embrace. Let’s welcome the developer willing to run with this.

If you like the idea of Brentwood Commons -- or even dislike the idea – or have what you think is a better idea of your own – let’s get on a Zoom call and brainstorm. I’ll send out an invite to a Zoom meeting to be held in early January after I’ve heard from interested Brentwoodians. We can record our session, turn it into a podcast, and post it on YouTube so eventually everyone can see it – including prospective developers who will want to see what the locals have to say about all this. If you have any visuals you’d like to present in support of your idea, you’ve got time to prepare. I’ll do the same. Want to attend this online brainstorming session? Send me an email: jeffhall@ mirrormediagroupla.com.

Ggiata Expands to Brentwood: What to Expect From the New Neighborhood Deli

Brentwood Ggiata Launch Delivers East Coast Classics

With a California Twist

Ggiata Delicatessen is expanding its footprint on the Westside, opening its Brentwood location on Monday, November 17, at 11640 San Vicente Blvd. The fast-growing sandwich shop, known for its modern take on East Coast deli traditions, marks its sixth outpost in Los Angeles. Founders Noah Holton-Raphael, Max Bahramipour, and Jack Biebel say the Brentwood debut continues the brand’s focus on neighborhood-driven hospitality

and design.

The new shop features Ggiata’s familiar menu of sandwiches, salads, wrap,s and pastries, along with rotating seasonal specials that change several times a year. Signature dishes include the Spicy P chicken cutlet sandwich with vodka sauce and fresh mozzarella, the Classic Italian, and The Draper, another chickenprosciutto combination layered with stracciatella, basil, and balsamic glaze. Wraps such as the Crispy Chicken Caesar, Buffalo Chicken and Chinese Chicken continue to anchor the menu, all prepared on Mejorado tortillas and paired with house-made dressings.

Executive chef Celerino Cruz oversees culinary operations across all Ggiata locations, maintaining consistency as the brand grows. Pastry chef Cristy Erickson contributes several of the deli’s

most recognizable desserts, including a Limoncello Olive Oil Cake, Rainbow Cookies, and a Black & White Cookie featuring a soft vanilla base coated in dark and white chocolate.

Breakfast remains a major draw, offered from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. daily. East Coast staples like the ’Clair, made with Taylor Ham, soft scrambled eggs, and melted American cheese on a Jyan Isaac Everything Bagel, appear alongside a BEC with applewood-smoked bacon.

Brentwood will also serve a handful of breakfast items exclusive to the new location, supported by a coffee program in partnership with Amigo Coffee Roasters.

Design plays a central role in the Brentwood opening, which Ggiata describes as its most polished space to date.

The interior blends East Coast nostalgia with contemporary elements: warm

banquettes, a custom white oak fixture by Lo.studios, a marble counter, and bespoke tilework designed by Bahramipour’s mother, Lorri. Additional touches include hand-thrown lighting by Danny D’s Mudshop, art by Jahlil Nzinga, painted window graphics by Jenna Paints, and custom speakers crafted by Ville Sounds. The restaurant seats roughly 30 guests between indoor banquettes, bar seating, and an outdoor patio.

Ggiata grew out of its founders’ shared upbringing in Montclair, N.J., inspired by the Italian delis that shaped their hometown. Since opening its first Los Angeles location in 2020, the brand has expanded to West Hollywood, Venice, Highland Park, Studio City, and now Brentwood. Each shop incorporates work from local artisans and creatives while emphasizing hospitality and community.

Urban Jungle: Deck The Halls This Holiday Season With Plants

The holiday season is fast approaching.

To make your holidays more sustainable, Urban Jungle, an indoor and tropical plants nursery on Lincoln Boulevard, encourages people to avoid the artificial greenery and decorate with fresh, natural greenery instead.

Holiday plants are in full stock at Urban Jungle. Natural, meaningful and full of life, plants are the perfect way to brighten homes, lift spirits and transform both indoor and outdoor spaces.

During the calm or the storm of the upcoming holiday season, indoor and outdoor plants are a festive and sustainable way to deck the halls. Adorn and decorate your home with greenery that cleanses the air.

Deisy Moreno, a team member at Urban Jungle, says plants are the simplest way to invite nature into your holiday routines. As you prepare your home for festive celebrations, consider this list of holidayfavorite plants found at Urban Jungle.

Classic and Modern with a Festive Blend

Indoors, poinsettias, cyclamen and Christmas cactus make for an instant seasonal charm with their rich reds, whites and soft pinks.

For something more modern, the redand green-variegated leaves of rubber trees and snake plants pair beautifully with cozy winter decor and thrive in lowlight conditions.

Added warmth can be achieved by grouping multiple plants together in decorative pots for a layered, inviting display.

Adorning Your Outdoor Spaces

Pansies, violas and ornamental kale provide vibrant seasonal color all season long. Rosemary and dwarf cypress offer that classic holiday look and are great plants to continue nurturing post holiday season.

“You can never go wrong with a porch full of beautiful lush indoor and outdoor plants that liven the space and boost the mood,” says Deisy.

Fresh greenery also pairs beautifully with twinkling lights, candles or seasonal ornaments, bringing texture, fragrance and natural charm to your porches, patios and entryways.

The Most Meaningful Gift Plants also make meaningful holiday gifts.

Deisy at Urban Jungle encourages people to think outside the box and give the gift that nobody returns: greenery.

As a gift, plants symbolize deep care and connection for the recipient. Although

Welcome to Urban Jungle

Immerse yourself in a sanctuary where nature’s tranquility meets the vibrancy of city life. Urban Jungle is more than a plant store it’s a communitycentered oasis bringing a lush slice of paradise to your urban lifestyle. Here, we passionately believe in the power of plants to transform spaces and elevate well-being.

it may require some attention and care, plants improve air quality, reduce stress and create a sense of tranquility.

Unlike many holiday gifts, plants last and become part of the space, often for years. Representing growth, new beginnings and life, plants add a personal touch of nature to any space.

While naturally enhancing a room, they serve as a gift that isn’t forgotten after the holidays — a living, interactive and longterm expression of love.

“Plants are presents that don’t get put aside after the holidays end. They reduce stress and are a living reminder of your loved ones,” Deisy says.

Gift the gift of life, love and renewal this season, and adorn your space with richness and meaning. Urban Jungle offers guidance on low-maintenance options, seasonal favorites and combinations that suit any space or lifestyle.

This season, the nursery invites holiday decorators and gift givers to embrace natural, engaging and long-lasting decor and gifts.

Urban Jungle also sells a variety of local and globally-sourced pottery essentials. Stop by the nursery located at 3113 Lincoln Boulevard in Santa Monica. Follow the boutique on Instagram.

Executive Function Coaching Helps College Students Find Success

It goes without saying, college is hard.

The demands of a new and changing daily routine in addition to studying and maintaining grades, sometimes bears weight on college students — creating cycles of frustration, stress, procrastination and withdrawal of effort.

Students who have learning differences, undiagnosed or diagnosed ADHD or autism may experience an even larger barrier when it comes to the amount of sustained attention, time management and performance necessary for college success.

But no barrier is too large with New Agenda Coaching, an executive function coaching practice in Los Angeles, founded by Maria Del Corso and Amie Davies. New Agenda believes strong executive function skills lead to higher performance in addition to life-long benefits for children, teens and adults.

For college students that are struggling to meet their goals and achieve success,

Del Corso says the outcomes of having 45 minutes per week of virtual executive function coaching session are positive and productive for individuals who — amidst a busy schedule — may not believe they have the time for it.

Taking time to speak with a professional about executive function struggles gives them back time when they learn simple, yet effective, strategies for success.

“Executive function coaching works, especially when students have challenges that are generated from ADHD or other learning differences, neurodivergent patterns, or those who are feeling that overwhelmed, or cognitive drown, during college. This type of coaching supports increased graduation rates, improved grades and remarkably improved mental health and a greater sense of self worth,” Del Corso said. “It also supports post graduation readiness into the workforce or graduate school.”

With coaching, students are able to reorganize and reinvent themselves. New Agenda Coaching professionals work oneon-one with students to organize and unify their calendar system and create better

study habits.

“Planning time for assignments and studying, working back from the due date and time blocking is part of our coaching. This practice is a lot more difficult than people realize, but it’s effective in helping students understand that unstructured time isn’t free time, and assigning time for high priority tasks and goals is an effective way to manage time,” Del Corso said.

New Agenda coaches look at the way students are studying and offer improvements to their “system of studying.” For example, study guides in high school were often provided, but in college, students are responsible for creating their own guides. New Agenda coaches help students create systems for studying, figuring out what works best from the concept of time management.

Maintaining health and wellness and socialization is extremely important for college students who struggle with executive function. They are often influenced by a negative self-talk, but New Agenda coaches help students “hear”

through that voice and recenter with positivity.

“Some people find and create relationships with people automatically. But some students have trouble building connections and finding activities and modes of health and wellness that relieves stress,” Del Corso said.

College isn’t about just getting to class on time, it’s becoming responsible for selfimposed structure, active prioritization and constant decision making. It’s mindfulness, both for students, and parents of college students, Del Corso said.

“There’s a lot in that transition for college students as well as the parents. If their young adult has ADHD or neurodivergent patterns, there’s a lot of worry that goes on in their mind. When we focus on achieving mindfulness, that includes active moments in between semesters of rest, or preparing for the next semester and leaving the last one as it was,” Del Corso said.

To learn more about New Agenda Coaching or to schedule a virtual onboarding session, go to NewAgendaCoaching.com.

School of Rock: End of Season Shows, Camps Coming Soon

2025 was a challenging year to say the least.

Many School of Rock students experienced upheaval due to the Palisades fires in January. While homes were lost, belongings scattered and instruments gone, music remained a constant.

School of Rock general manager Justin Salmons says despite the hard times, the music didn’t stop and that was a testament to the passion students have for music. When they are exposed to performancebased music education, the passion grows.

“We had over 200 students enroll or reenroll in our Back to School push, which is a huge milestone and achievement given the absolute peril our community had gone through early this year,” Salmons says.

“That’s what we are about, community and collaboration. As long as we can continue giving these kids an awesome, safe environment to make friends, grow their self-confidence and become awesome musicians, we are all winning,” he adds.

LOOKING FORWARD

As the year 2025 comes to an end, School of Rock has released information and registration for winter camps, spring camps and summer camps for the

remainder of this year and 2026.

“No previous experience is required for the camps. For all ages, our camps are a fun retreat during school breaks as they learn the fundamentals of music education in an uplifting, positive environment with peers,” Salmons says.

Heading into January, School of Rock West LA and Venice have exciting events scheduled in addition to the full complement of classes. Venice, this spring, will launch its adult program, inviting lifelong learners to try their hand at learning an instrument.

END OF SEASON SHOWS

School of Rock West LA is hosting its Fall/Winter 2025-26 Season Preview Party on Dec. 6 from 7-9 p.m.

The event features live music, an ugly holiday sweater contest and fall treats and free attendance. In addition to live student performances, School of Rock’s house band and staff band will play sets. During this event, end of season performance shows will be announced.

“We have so many end of season shows in January, we had to book two separate venues. We’re also teaming up with our South Bay sister school for another one,” Salmons says.

School of Rock Venice will host its season preview party Dec. 14 from 5-7 p.m.

COMMUNITY EVENTS

This year, both School of Rock West LA and Venice house bands have participated in gigs that uplift the community.

Each year, students who have been involved in performance programs have an opportunity to audition for School of Rock’s house band. Top students from this audition are invited to play extra gigs throughout the year.

Recently, the band played at the Yee Haw Fest, a fundraiser for Pali Elementary, playing Western-themed music such as Dolly Parton. They’ve also done Palisades fire relief shows, which featured the X Ambassadors and Fitz and the Tantrums as headliners.

“That was an amazing event, just a perfect example of how we love to be part of the community, to bring joy and opportunity and share our love of music with our community,” Salmons says.

California Roadhouse will be opening at the Santa Monica Pier and School of Rock house bands are planning to host popup events to raise excitement for the new venue.

This fall, School of Rock house bands also played sets during the Run Travis Run 5K, a running event hosted by Travis Barker. School of Rock Venice played in November at the Venice Fest, an arts and musical festival.

GET INVOLVED

School of Rock’s prolific song-first approach programming is available in several locations throughout Los Angeles for all ages as young as 4.

Musical proficiency is built by integrating thrilling stage performance and song-based learning. Music theory, technique, stage presence and confidence abound as students progress into higher levels of the program.

School of Rock’s tiers of programming include Little Wing, for ages 4-5; Rookies, for ages 6-7; Rock 101, for ages 8-13, and Performance for ages 8-18, in addition to AllStars, Songwriting and adult programming. .

To learn more about School of Rock or activate your free trial, visit Venice.SchoolofRock.com or WestLA. SchoolofRock.com.

NOW ENROLLING TK - KINDERGARTEN

American Cinematheque Joins Filmmakers to Rebuild Iconic Westwood Village Theatre

All-New ‘Funhouse at Pacific Park’ To Open

At The Santa Monica Pier, Will Celebrate Eerie Historic Past

the 'Funhouse at Pacific Park,' the sinister magic of coin-operated fortunetellers and the eerie presence of a dessert-wielding clown have once again been unleashed. With a sidelong glance, an animatronic fortuneteller seated inside its dusty glass cabinet lures unsuspecting guests into a dizzying adventure—one that may land

Historic Village Theatre to Reopen as Premier Film Venue With Cinematheque Partnership

nautical miles south of today’s Pacific Park, near the Santa Monica–Venice border. Both became icons of seaside amusement before disappearing in the 1970s.

Park in 2024 and committed $10 million in capital investments over the next five years in Pacific Park’s food and entertainment programs, supporting park operations and keeping it a fun and friendly destination for

SC Holdings, an investment firm with extensive experience in the consumer, entertainment, and hospitality sectors, acquired the operating group of Pacific

an emailed statement, “We are thrilled to announce that the American Cinematheque has entered into a new partnership with the Village Directors Circle (VDC), led by filmmaker Jason Reitman. As part of this agreement, the AC will operate and program the VDC’s recent acquisition, the iconic Westwood Village Theater.”

Rosh

Major restoration work is set to begin at the historic Village Theatre in Westwood Village after a coalition of more than 30 prominent filmmakers acquired the landmark and announced plans for a fullscale renovation. The group, known as the Village Directors Circle, aims to reopen the 1,000-plus–seat movie palace in 2027 as a modern, multi-use screening and event venue.

Hashanah

Police Launch Investigation After Disturbing Vandalism

Outside El Rodeo Elementary

Renovation designs call for a complete remodel of the auditorium, lobby, and public spaces. Organizers say the updated venue will support award-season programs, retrospectives, filmmaker tributes, newrelease engagements, and a slate of longrunning American Cinematheque series, including Beyond Fest, Bleak Week, This Is Not a Fiction, and Ultra Cinematheque 70. New festivals are also expected to be added to the schedule.

of the

Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, LA’s only admission-free amusement park, offers 12 amusement rides, 14 midway games, Snackville with five fun food offerings and retail beach shops.

Pacific Park’s signature rides include the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, the Pacific Wheel, and the West Coaster, a steel roller coaster that races 55 feet above the Santa Monica Bay. For additional information and hours of operation, call

living directors rallied to save the most beautiful movie theater in Los Angeles, the Village Theater in Westwood. The Village is a storied movie palace and a cathedral to cinema. And with the American Cinematheque, it will have its congregation.”

The Village Directors Circle plans to maintain the theater’s nearly century-long tradition of hosting red-carpet premieres, while reimagining the lobby as a flexible space for concessions, retail kiosks, artifact exhibits drawn from VDC members’ personal collections, and receptions tied to screenings and premieres.

Swastika Found Near Beverly Hills Elementary School Ahead of

Under the plan, the American Cinematheque will serve as the programming and operating partner for the restored theater, working closely with the filmmaker consortium to develop yearround screenings, festivals, premieres, and special events. The Cinematheque will also oversee day-to-day management once the facility reopens.

Authorities are investigating after a swastika was discovered outside a Beverly Hills elementary school on Monday, according to My News LA.

grounds of El Rodeo Elementary School, according to the Beverly Hills Unified School District. The district noted that the act of vandalism occurred as Jewish families were preparing to observe Rosh Hashanah, which begins Monday evening, making the incident especially disturbing. District staff immediately removed the swastika and notified the Beverly Hills Police Department. Police have launched an active investigation to identify those responsible.

Rick Nicita, American Cinematheque Chair, said, “Partnering with the brilliant and virtuoso Village Directors Circle to renovate the Village Theater is an exciting milestone for the American Cinematheque. We are thrilled to bring our expertise in film programming to Westwood, breathing new life into this iconic venue. Our goal is to create a vibrant cultural hub that not only celebrates cinema but also enriches the community and welcomes audiences from all over Los Angeles and the world.”

The symbol was found just outside the

The American Cinematheque said, in

Jason Reitman added, “Last year, some

No additional details about potential suspects or motives have been released.

The Village Directors Circle (VDC), led by filmmaker Jason Reitman, includes J.J. Abrams, Judd Apatow, Damien Chazelle, Chris Columbus, Ryan Coogler, Bradley Cooper, Alfonso Cuarón, Jonathan Dayton, Guillermo del Toro, Valerie Faris, Hannah Fidell, Alejandro González Iñárritu, James Gunn, Sian Heder, Rian Johnson, Gil Kenan, Karyn Kusama, Justin Lin, Phil Lord, David Lowery, Christopher McQuarrie, Chris Miller, Christopher Nolan, Alexander Payne, Todd Phillips, Gina Prince-Bythewood, Jay Roach, Seth Rogen, Emma Seligman, Brad Silberling, Steven Spielberg, Emma Thomas, Denis Villeneuve, Lulu Wang and Chloé Zhao.

greatest

Baywatch Reboot to Film in Venice, Malibu & Century City After Production Secures $21 Million Tax Credit

All-New ‘Funhouse at Pacific Park’ To Open At The Santa Monica Pier, Will Celebrate Eerie Historic Past

State Tax Credits and Local Advocacy

Helped Keep the Iconic Franchise in Los Angeles

The ‘Toonerville Funhouse,’ originally located at Ocean Park Pier and Pacific Ocean Park amusement parks, is inspiration for the newest attraction inside Pacific Park

Baywatch will return to its original shoreline. The reboot of the globally popular television series has committed to filming at the historic Venice Beach Lifeguard Operations Station, Malibu, and the Fox Studio Lot in Century City, a decision Los Angeles officials say reflects the strength of California’s film and television tax-credit program.

SANTA MONICA, Calif., (September 10, 2025) --- Guests to the all-new “Funhouse at Pacific Park” will explore a lost world of spooky, chilling, and haunting experiences.

Councilmember Traci Park announced the news on Thursday. Park said, This is a real victory for the men and women who keep this industry running. California's film tax credits helped us keep an iconic franchise here at home, and that matters — not just symbolically, but for the thousands of workers whose livelihoods depend on a strong entertainment economy. I'm grateful to Governor Newsom, Mayor

The legendary “Toonerville Funhouse” appeared in two eras of Santa Monica amusement history – first at Ocean Park Pier in the 1920s and later at Pacific Ocean Park in 1958 – thrilling and unnerving guests for decades. Hidden away for years, its spirit has been resurrected inside Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. Over time, storms and renovations buried its memory, until the entrance to the abandoned funhouse was mysteriously uncovered inside Pacific Park. With a little polishing, it has reopened for guests as a nod to local Santa Monica history and nostalgic fun.

In all the tinkering and perfecting of the 'Funhouse at Pacific Park,' the sinister magic of coin-operated fortunetellers and the eerie presence of a dessert-wielding clown have once again been unleashed. With a sidelong glance, an animatronic fortuneteller seated inside its dusty glass cabinet lures unsuspecting guests into a dizzying adventure—one that may land

them in the back of Sprinkles the Clown's ice cream truck freezer. Will guests make it out unscathed, or will they be lost in this labyrinth of curiosities for another 100 years?

Bass, and Supervisor Horvath for a united partnership, and I want to especially thank IATSE and SAG-AFTRA for their relentless advocacy. This win belongs to all of us."

The 2,800-square-foot “Funhouse at Pacific Park” includes nine mysterious rooms and attractions designed to disorient, amuse and entertain visitors with optical illusions, tricky layouts, and unexpected surprises. From giant ice cream cones to disorienting mazes, the Funhouse offers a buffet for the senses full of unexpected twists and turns.

State incentives, championed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, were credited with keeping the reboot from relocating to states or countries offering aggressive financial packages.

According to city officials, the series faced significant pressure to move its production elsewhere before state and local leaders coordinated an effort to keep it in Los Angeles. Park, Mayor Karen Bass, Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, and the Governor’s Office all engaged with the production. Entertainment unions — including IATSE and SAG-AFTRA — also played a key role, pressing for policies that protect in-state jobs and encourage long-term production commitments.

"Pacific Park is excited to bring a fresh take on a classic idea to the millions of visitors who enjoy the Pier each year," said Nathan Smithson, Senior Director of Business Affairs at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. "This is a unique opportunity to honor the legacy of the original Toonerville Funhouses while crafting a future filled with mystery and awe in the all-new Funhouse at Pacific Park."

The reboot is expected to create several hundred union jobs for crew members and craftspeople, as well as generate new business for shops, restaurants, and hospitality services in Venice and the surrounding Westside. The commitment

The “Toonerville Funhouses” were whimsical, cartoon-themed attractions inspired by the popular "Toonerville Trolley" comic strip, which was widely recognized in the early 20th century. The first version opened at Ocean Park Pier in the 1920s, while a second debuted in 1958 at Pacific Ocean Park, which replaced Ocean Park Pier on the same site at the end of Ocean Park Boulevard, just about two nautical miles south of today’s Pacific Park, near the Santa Monica–Venice border. Both became icons of seaside amusement before disappearing in the 1970s.

SC Holdings, an investment firm with extensive experience in the consumer, entertainment, and hospitality sectors, acquired the operating group of Pacific

"At a time when productions have been drifting out of California, the return of

Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, LA’s only admission-free amusement park, offers 12 amusement rides, 14 midway games, Snackville with five fun food offerings and retail beach shops.

Swastika Found Near Beverly Hills Elementary School Ahead of Rosh Hashanah

Police Launch Investigation After Disturbing Vandalism Outside El Rodeo Elementary

Authorities are investigating after a swastika was discovered outside a Beverly Hills elementary school on Monday, according to My News LA. The symbol was found just outside the

No additional details about potential suspects or motives have been released.

310-260-8744, visit pacpark.com, and go to Facebook.com/pacificpark, Instagram. com/pacpark or X.com/pacpark.

arrives as FilmLA and industry unions continue to report historically low levels of TV production, including fewer returning series.

Baywatch sends a strong message: this state is still the home of film and television," Park added. "Venice is proud to welcome this production back." Production is anticipated to begin in early 2026.

Fiorelli Pizza Expands From Venice Pop-Up to Permanent West Third Street Location

All-New ‘Funhouse at Pacific Park’ To Open At The Santa Monica Pier, Will Celebrate Eerie Historic Past

The Popular Popup Known for Its Brick-Oven “LaStyle” Pizzas and Community-Driven Spirit Opens Its

First Restaurant

The ‘Toonerville Funhouse,’ originally located at Ocean Park Pier and Pacific Ocean Park amusement parks, is inspiration for the newest attraction inside Pacific Park

Fiorelli Pizza, a Venice-born popup celebrated for its brick-oven pies and neighborhood charm, is taking a major step this fall with the opening of its first permanent restaurant on West Third Street, joining a lineup of beloved local spots such as Joan’s on Third and Magnolia Bakery.

SANTA MONICA, Calif., (September 10, 2025) --- Guests to the all-new “Funhouse at Pacific Park” will explore a lost world of spooky, chilling, and haunting experiences.

The new location marks a milestone for co-founders Chef Michael Fiorelli, formerly of Olivetta and Love & Salt, and Liz Gutierrez, who previously served as Director of Administration and HR for the Boujis Group. The pair launched Fiorelli Pizza in 2024 with a focus on simplicity, hospitality, and community, values that have become the backbone of their growing brand.

What began as a mobile pizza oven parked in Venice’s Cook’s Garden quickly became a culinary favorite, earning praise from Eater LA and The Infatuation for its “LA-style pizza”, a hybrid of Neapolitan and New York influences featuring California’s freshest produce.

After years of planning and saving, Fiorelli and Gutierrez have turned that early success into a neighborhood

them in the back of Sprinkles the Clown's ice cream truck freezer. Will guests make it out unscathed, or will they be lost in this labyrinth of curiosities for another 100

restaurant designed to feel intimate, welcoming, and rooted in their shared philosophy of thoughtful hospitality.

The menu centers on Fiorelli’s signature pizzas, from the Fiorelli Classic and Fennel Sausage to the Bianco and Pepperoni, alongside a selection of vegetarian and vegan-friendly options. Guests can also expect shareable small plates like local burrata with olive oil and basil, tinned fish with black olive butter, and a chicory Caesar tossed with parmesan and anchovy.

Heartier offerings include olive oilfried meatballs, lamb bolognese with rigatoni, and warm sourdough with ricotta and basil. For dessert, Fiorelli Pizza will feature rotating seasonal sweets such as bombolone and fruit crumbles.

The kitchen occupies most of the space, leaving room for seven indoor seats, eight outdoor spots, and a three-seat chef’s counter where guests can watch the dough-making process up close.

Retail shelves will feature select pantry goods — including tinned fish, sauces, and take-home ingredients — that reflect the restaurant’s Mediterranean inspiration.

Located at 8236 W. Third Street, Fiorelli Pizza will be open Wednesday through Sunday, 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., offering dine-in, takeout, and delivery service. Expansion of hours is planned as operations grow.

The kitchen will also experiment with weekly specials, including an octopus sandwich inspired by Bari, Italy, where Fiorelli’s family originates — a modern nod to the coastal panino col polpo, made with slow-cooked octopus, potatoes, cherry peppers, salsa verde, and lemon aioli.

Designed by the Fiorelli team, the 750-square-foot restaurant embodies a balance of warmth and efficiency, painted in soft blue tones and anchored by a brick oven built on-site, brick by brick.

SC Holdings, an investment firm with extensive experience in the consumer, entertainment, and hospitality sectors, acquired the operating group of Pacific

Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, LA’s only admission-free amusement park, offers 12 amusement rides, 14 midway games, Snackville with five fun food offerings and retail beach shops.

Swastika Found Near Beverly Hills Elementary School Ahead of

Rosh Hashanah

Police Launch Investigation After Disturbing Vandalism

Outside El Rodeo Elementary

Authorities are investigating after a swastika was discovered outside a Beverly Hills elementary school on Monday, according to My News LA.

The symbol was found just outside the

No additional details about potential suspects or motives have been released.

310-260-8744, visit pacpark.com, and go to Facebook.com/pacificpark, Instagram. com/pacpark or X.com/pacpark.

All-New ‘Funhouse at Pacific Park’ To Open

At The Santa Monica Pier, Will Celebrate

UC Tuition to Climb for New Students After Regents’ Controversial Vote

them in the back of Sprinkles the Clown's ice cream truck freezer. Will guests make it out unscathed, or will they be lost in this labyrinth of curiosities for another 100

SANTA MONICA, Calif., (September 10, 2025) --- Guests to the all-new “Funhouse at Pacific Park” will explore a lost world of spooky, chilling, and haunting experiences.

Officials Cite Budget Gaps and Inflation, Students Warn the Decision Will Deepen Financial Barriers for LowIncome Families

the board debated a proposal that allows tuition for new undergraduates to climb by as much as 5% annually. An earlier version of the plan would have raised the cap to 7%.

UC leaders claim the increases are needed to address widening budget gaps tied to state funding reductions, lower federal support, and rising inflationary pressures. They argued that the adjustment is critical to maintaining academic quality, faculty hiring, and student services. Student groups, however, have criticized

the plan as an unnecessary burden on families already struggling with the rising cost of higher education. Advocates say the change will hit low-income students hardest, especially as the share of tuition revenue earmarked for financial aid is set to drop from 45% to 40%.

The vote leaves future UC students facing higher tuition, potentially larger loan balances, and fewer aid dollars to offset the added expenses. Opponents vowed to continue pressing state leaders and regents for alternative budget solutions.

Tuition for incoming University of California students will rise beginning next year after the UC Board of Regents on Wednesday approved a multiyear increase, despite loud opposition from students who rallied at UCLA to protest the move. The increase will take effect for students who enroll in the school for the fall 2026 session.

Students from all nine UC campuses gathered outside the meeting, holding signs that read “Hands off our tuition” and urging regents to reject the plan. The crowd chanted throughout the morning as

Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles Campus 55

Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, LA’s only admission-free amusement park, offers 12 amusement rides, 14 midway games, Snackville with five fun food offerings and retail beach shops.

SC Holdings, an investment firm with extensive experience in the consumer, entertainment, and hospitality sectors, acquired the operating group of Pacific

way high school should be.

Students achieve remarkable outcomes with our strong academics, small classes, and personalized learning. Learn more about our dynamic program and 4-year college planning support at an Admissions event.

found just outside the

No additional details about potential suspects or motives have been released.

Bilingual - French/English

MUST BE 2 YEARS BY DEC 31ST TO ENROLL

POTTY-TRAINED NOT REQUIRED 8:00AM - 2:30PM

Swastika Found Near Beverly Hills Elementary School Ahead of Rosh Hashanah

Extended care available until 4:45pm

OPTION A: 5 DAYS/WEEK

OPTION B: 3 DAYS/WEEK (M/W/F)

LUNCH & SNACK INCLUDED

3055 Overland Ave, Los Angeles 90034

admissions@lyceela.org

License #197404606

310-260-8744, visit pacpark.com, and go to Facebook.com/pacificpark, Instagram. com/pacpark or X.com/pacpark.