Homeless Man Assaults Angelini Palisades Restaurant Worker
A GoFundMe Has Been Created for Medical Expenses
By Zach Armstrong
A worker at the high-end Angelini Ristorante & Bar in Pacific Palisades was assaulted by a homeless man last week, staff at the eatery confirmed.
On Aug. 15 around 4 p.m., a busser at the restaurant who has the nickname “Nacho”, was on a break when he went to the nearby Ralphs on Sunset Boulevard where he was kicked in the chest by the suspect and knocked to the ground.
“Nacho”, who has worked with Angelini’s owner in various establishments for around 15 years, according to a staff member, hasn’t returned to work since the incident; as he is recovering at home from his injuries.
LAPD officials confirmed that a male suspect, possibly homeless, was taken into custody and booked for Felony Battery over the incident.
A GoFundMe to assist with the restaurant worker’s medical expenses titled “Help Nacho Recover from Assault Incident” has been created.
of its
Physician Charged in Connection to Matthew Perry’s Death
The Indictment Alleges That Plasencia Was Complicit in Distributing Ketamine to Perry During the Actor’s Final Weeks
Dr. Salvador Plasencia, a Santa Monica physician, is among five defendants charged in connection with the fatal ketamine overdose of actor Matthew Perry in October 2023. Plasencia and alleged San Fernando
Valley drug dealer Jasveen Sangha were arrested today and face serious consequences under an 18-count superseding indictment unsealed this week.
Plasencia, 42, also known as “Dr. P,” is charged with conspiracy to distribute ketamine, seven counts of distribution of the drug, and two counts of altering documents related to the federal investigation. If convicted of all charges, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison for each count related to ketamine distribution and up to 20 years for each records falsification charge.
The indictment alleges that Plasencia was complicit in distributing ketamine to Perry during the actor’s final weeks. Perry, who struggled with addiction, suffered a fatal overdose on October 28, 2023, after receiving multiple injections
of ketamine. The court documents claim that Plasencia distributed the drug to Perry outside the scope of legitimate medical practice and failed to monitor him after administration.
United States Attorney Martin Estrada stated, “These defendants cared more about profiting off of Mr. Perry than caring for his well-being,” emphasizing the importance of holding drug dealers accountable for the harm they cause.
Sangha, 41, who is known as “The Ketamine Queen,” faces even harsher penalties, including a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a potential life sentence if convicted.
The indictment cites that her actions on October 24, 2023, directly contributed to Perry’s death.
Both Plasencia and Sangha are expected to be arraigned later today in
gofundme.com/f/help-nacho-recoverfrom-assault-incident.
U.S. District Court in downtown Los Angeles. The charges come as part of a broader investigation into the illicit distribution of drugs that led to Perry’s tragic demise, which has garnered significant public attention.
The ongoing investigation involves the Los Angeles Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration, among other agencies.
According to the fundraiser campaign, he is responsible for all costs related to this incident. At the time of this writing,
the campaign has raised $175
$5,000 goal. The link can be found at https://www.
Invasive Plant Species Found in Temescal Gateway Park
The Invasive Plant Was Introduced to the U.S. As an Ornamental Vine in the Late 1800s
By Zach Armstrong
Recent photos show instances of Cape Ivy, an invasive and difficult-to-remove plant species common to Golden State’s coastal range, strewn along the Temescal Canyon Trail within Temescal Gateway Park.
“On the Temescal Canyon hike, there are loads of cape ivy scattered across.” said the reader who sent three photos to Mirror Media Group in a July email. “[It] is an invasive species and is literally choking out the other native plants on the hike.”
Delairea odorata, more commonly known as Cape Ivy, is a perennial vine found in the San Gabriel Mountains and along the California coast, as per the California Invasive Plant Council. Although it can also invade inland riparian areas, moist forests, and oak woodlands, the species is particularly problematic in coastal riparian
areas (vegetated ecosystems adjacent to coastal water bodies).
The invasive plant was introduced to the U.S. as an ornamental vine in the late 1800s, according to California State Parks. After escaping into the wild, it has since infested coastal areas from California to Oregon.
“Vines are known to form dense mats
of vegetation over trees and shrubs, killing plants underneath.” as stated on CIPC’s website. “It is toxic to animals and fish can be killed when plant materials are soaking in waterways. Stem, rhizome and stolon fragments resprout if left in the ground after treatment. Can occasionally reproduce by seeds in some areas.”
In 2021, California State Parks initiated an effort in the San Luis Obispo Coast District to remove the tenaciously grown species from the Chorro Willows area of Morro Bay State Park. While initial treatments consisted of herbicide application, newer cape ivy populations were controlled by “chemical or mechanical means.”
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St. Matthew’s Music Guild Unveils 40th Concert Series Lineup
The Guild will present concerts highlighting classical masterpieces and contemporary work
St. Matthew’s Music Guild has announced its 2024-2025 concert season lineup.
The season opens on September 27, 2024, with a performance by renowned saxophonist Jan Berry Baker, marking her first appearance with the Chamber Orchestra at St. Matthew’s. The program will feature Jacque Ibert’s Concertino da Cameraand William Grant Still’s Romance for Alto Saxophone and Strings, culminating in Mendelssohn’s beloved “Italian” Symphony.
Throughout the season, the Music
Guild will present a series of concerts highlighting both classical masterpieces and contemporary works.
Notable events include an all-Beethoven concert by pianist Robert Thies on November 1, 2024, and a Valentine’s Day program titled “Love Songs,” featuring performances by David Kaplan, YuEun Gemma Kim, Liv Redpath, and other musicians on February 14, 2025.
The Guild’s annual Holiday Concert returns on December 6, 2024, with the Chamber Orchestra and Choir of St. Matthew’s Parish performing baroque favorites by Purcell, Corelli, and Vivaldi, concluding with a sing-along of Handel’s Hallelujah Chorus.
The season will close on May 30, 2025, with pianist Inna Faliks delivering the West Coast premiere of Richard Danielpour’s Piano Concerto No. 4 (A Hero’s Journey).
For more information, go to https:// www.musicguildonline.org.
Palisades Bike Shop to Close, Transition to Mobile Business Model
Kruse and Company Will Continue
Serving as a Dealer of Electric Bicycles From Brands Such as Tern, Royal Dutch Gazelle, Riese & Müller
Kruse and Company, a local bicycle shop that has served the Pacific Palisades for two years, will not renew its lease at its current location on Sunset Boulevard. However, the business is not closing; instead, it will transition to a mobile model starting September 1.
Co-owners Tara and Andrew Grove, who are also residents of the area, expressed enthusiasm about this new direction.
“We love being a part of this community, and we see an opportunity to bring the neighborhood bicycle shop to wherever it’s most convenient for our customers,”
Andrew Grove said in a release. The mobile business will focus on e-bike sales
and bicycle repairs while participating in community events.
Customers interested in purchasing new electric bicycles will start the process online or by phone. Kruse and Company will then bring the bikes to customers for personal test rides. “We know that everyone enjoys the ease of online shopping, but customers should be able to try these bikes before
they make a decision,” Andrew Grove said in a release. “The test ride experience has always been a core part of our business.”
Kruse and Company will continue to serve as an authorized dealer of premium electric bicycles from brands such as Tern, Royal Dutch Gazelle, Riese & Müller, and others. The shop also offers service and repairs for the brands it sells, in addition to
Bosch-equipped e-bikes and various nonelectric bicycles.
Residents are invited to visit Kruse and Company’s current location at 15121 Sunset Blvd. before Aug. 31 to take advantage of special sales and discounts.
For more information about the mobile operations and upcoming events, visit www.krusebikes.com.
Los Angeles Agrees to $38.2 Million Settlement Over HUD Accessibility Violations in Affordable Housing
City Settles Federal Allegations of Failing to Meet Accessibility Standards
Officials announced that the City of Los Angeles has agreed to a $38.2 million settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice to resolve allegations that it failed to comply with federal accessibility requirements while using Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) grant funds for affordable multifamily housing projects.
The settlement follows a 2017 whistleblower lawsuit in which the U.S. government intervened. The lawsuit alleges that for over a decade, Los Angeles knowingly violated federal laws by not ensuring that the housing it built or rehabilitated with HUD funds was accessible to people with disabilities. The lawsuit claims that the city falsely certified its compliance with these requirements to HUD annually.
“Municipalities receiving federal grant
money for affordable and accessible housing must comply with federal law and honor the rights of people with disabilities,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Joseph T. McNally. He emphasized that the substantial settlement underscores the commitment to ensuring that recipients of federal funds adhere to legal obligations.
The U.S. government argued that the city’s violations included structural failures, such as steep slopes, high counters, and inaccessible thresholds for wheelchair users. Additionally, the city was accused of not maintaining a publicly available list of accessible units and failing to designate an employee to coordinate accessibility efforts as required by federal law.
“By failing to make certain that HUD-funded multifamily housing met federal accessibility requirements, the city discriminated against people with disabilities,” said HUD Inspector General Rae Oliver Davis. She added that the settlement represents a renewed effort to collaborate with Los Angeles in addressing the city’s housing needs.
The $38.2 million settlement resolves
the lawsuit under the False Claims Act, which allows private parties to sue on behalf of the government and share in any recovery. The case was initiated by a Los Angeles resident who uses a wheelchair and the Fair Housing Council of San Fernando Valley, a nonprofit disability rights advocacy group. A portion of the settlement may be awarded to these parties, though the amount has not yet been determined.
This settlement follows a 2020 agreement in which the U.S. government
secured $3.1 million from another defendant in the same case, CRA/LA, the successor of the City of Los Angeles Community Redevelopment Agency.
The Department of Justice’s Civil Division, along with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California and HUD’s Office of Inspector General, led the investigation and litigation of the case. The settlement resolves the allegations, but there has been no determination of liability.
Renowned Palisades Chef Launches Private Catering Service
Chef Gianbatista
Vinzoni Is the Owner of Monument Avenue’s Own “Delizioso Cinque”
Pacific Palisades resident Chef Gianbatista Vinzoni, owner of Monument Avenue’s own DELIzioso
Cinque, is now offering private catering services for events.
With over 30 years of experience, Chef Gianba has built a stellar reputation in the culinary world, having worked in some of the most prestigious kitchens, including as Chef at Cecconi’s in West Hollywood and Executive Chef at Fig & Olive, as stated in a release.
His background includes serving as Head Chef at SOHO House and Executive Sous Chef at The Beverly
Hilton, where he crafted menus for high-profile events, including three Golden Globe Awards.
Chef Gianba offers tailored catering for a variety of events, including intimate dinner parties, weddings, and corporate gatherings. “Creating unforgettable culinary experiences is my passion,” said Chef Gianba in a
release. “Each menu is designed with the client’s vision in mind, ensuring a unique dining experience that reflects their tastes and preferences.”
For more information on booking Chef Gianba for a private event or to explore his catering services, visit Catering by Chef Gianba or contact catering@ deliziosocinque.com.
Eating at Pacific Park on the Pier Just Got Even Tastier
In June this year, Santa Monica’s beloved oceanfront amusement park welcomed a brand-new eating experience to the Pier. “Snackville”, the brainchild of the late Michelin starred chef James Kent, opened to much fanfare on June 7, treating patrons to iconic Americana fare taken up a notch.
Ferris wheels and screams of delight may not be normally associated with fine dining, but fans of the park’s former food options shouldn’t worry. Snackville retains the Pier’s original concession stand format and serves up all your favorite treats of yesteryear: think burgers, fries, hotdogs, and of course funnel cakes.
And while the fare is familiar and accessible, it’s also elevated. In overseeing the new venture, Kent, who tragically passed away last month, leaned on his vast experience in the high-stakes restaurant world. His goal to keep things simple and do them exceptionally well is evident in the five new stands he created: Smashie’s Burgers, Mr. Nice Fry, Churrita Churro, Cosmic Funnel Cakes and Scoops Creamery.
Kent saw Snackville as a chance to try new things and have fun. He even introduced a host of charming Snackville characters as mascots; the jaunty cartoon burger and a long-lashed churro with
high heels recall 1950s concession-stand advertising.
In real life, these characters are as delicious as expected. The centerpiece of Snackville is Smashie’s Burgers, serving a finely-honed version of the popular smash burger. Ground beef is smashed into the hot griddle to deliver maximum crust and maximum flavor, before being topped with American cheese, grilled onions and special “Smashie Sauce” to create a juicy, drippy taste sensation. The stand also offers loaded hot dogs and fries.
If it’s a fun twist on fried potatoes you’re after, try Mr. Nice Fry, which offers several beautifully crispy fry varieties including “Skinny Dippers,” “Swirly Fries” and “Tater Wheels,” all served with tasty dipping sauces and seasonings. Plus, from inside Mr. Nice Fry you can order an eegee, the famous Arizonan beverage made from real fruit. This slushie-like frozen treat has been a summer staple in Arizona since 1971, and now makes its delightful Los Angeles debut — sure to be a calling card for the curious and thirsty alike.
Then of course there’s dessert. The classic boardwalk treat, the funnel cake, can be found in all its glory at both Cosmic Funnel Cakes and Scoops Creamery, so there’s no excuse to miss out. Made by
pouring batter through a funnel into hot oil, the cakes have a distinct airy, crispy texture and can be topped with fresh fruit and whipped cream or just a dusting of powdered sugar for the purists.
At Scoops Creamery (no relation to the Highland Park store) you can enjoy a scoop of gorgeous Lappert’s ice cream in flavors like Hawaiian Sea Salt Caramel and Lemon Creamsicle, as well as milkshakes and sundaes. But leave room for the churros at Churrita’s: a levelled-up version filled with dulce de leche, dipped in chocolate, or just coated in classic cinnamon-sugar with vanilla soft-serve to dunk.
The opening of Snackville adds a new level of attraction to Pacific Park, a popular tourist spot that already brings in an estimated 12 million visitors annually. The Park is expected to get more upgrades over the next five years, with investment company SC Holdings putting some $10
million in the project.
It was SC Holding’s partnership with celebrated chef James Kent that led to Snackville’s conception. Chef Kent honed his skills at renowned kitchens like Babbo and Jean-Georges before joining Eleven Madison Park in New York City, leading the restaurant to three Michelin stars. Kent then went on to launch two Michelinstarred restaurants of his own—Crown Shy and SAGA, both in New York’s financial district—and formed Saga Hospitality Group with SC Holdings.
And while the restaurants James Kent founded sit firmly in the fine dining world, Kent himself was no stranger to the fun of the concession stand. In September last year the award-winning restauranteur slung chicken sandwiches and toffee pudding for the lucky punters at the US Open in New York.
Chef Kent passed away of a heart attack at age 45 on June 12.
Proposed Supermarket Merger Faces Opposition About Lack of Competition
Kroger and Albertsons will defend their proposed merger in federal court starting Monday in Oregon, facing opposition from
the U.S. government. The hearing, which could determine the fate of the largest supermarket merger in U.S. history, will see both companies attempt to counter the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) objections.
The merger, first proposed in October 2022, aims to create a grocery giant capable of competing with industry leaders like Walmart and Costco. Kroger and Albertsons argue that the merger would allow them to reduce costs and
Kroger and Albertsons to Defend Merger in Federal Court Amid FTC Challenge Months After Becoming Bistro, Hank’s Introduces New Brunch Menu
enhance their competitive edge.
However, the FTC has sued to block the deal, arguing that it would reduce competition and lead to higher grocery prices, particularly when food prices are already high. The FTC also contends that the merger would negatively impact the quality of service and result in lower wages and benefits for workers as competition between the two companies diminishes.
The FTC seeks a preliminary injunction to halt the merger while the case proceeds before an in-house administrative law judge. U.S. District Judge Adrienne Nelson will preside over the three-week hearing, which is expected to feature testimony from around 40 witnesses,
Hank’s brunch menu is part of its recent transformation under the guidance of Tancredi DeLuca
Hank’s, a Palisades Village eatery, has recently expanded its offerings by introducing a new brunch menu, just months after transitioning into a bistro. The restaurant now offers brunch service starting at 11:30 a.m. and continuing until dinner begins at 5:00 p.m.
Some highlights include Hank’s Brunch Smashburger, which comes with a single patty, American cheese, bacon, a fried egg, and a crispy hash brown. Another standout is the House-Cured Salmon Plate, served with chopped egg, capers,
including the CEOs of Kroger and Albertsons. Judge Nelson’s decision on whether to grant the injunction could be pivotal in the merger’s outcome.
The case has garnered support from several state attorneys general, including those from Arizona, California, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, and Wyoming, who have joined the FTC in opposing the merger.
Kroger, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, operates 2,800 stores across 35 states under various banners, including Mariano’s, Ralphs, Smith’s, and Harris Teeter. Combined, Kroger and Albertsons employ approximately 710,000 people.
dill, shallots, and lemon-chive crème fraiche on sourdough toast. For those with a sweet tooth, the Lemon-Ricotta Blueberry Pancakes, topped with whipped cream and mixed berries compote, offer a delightful option.
Additionally, groups can enjoy a Mimosa or Bloody Mary Carafe, which serves four glasses, for $40.
Hank’s brunch menu is part of its recent transformation under the guidance of Tancredi DeLuca, the restaurateur behind Angelini Ristorante & Bar.
LAFD Honors Firefighters for Life-Saving Rescue in Palisades
Despite Challenging Topography, Which Hindered Communication, the Firefighters Successfully Located the Hiker
The Los Angeles Fire Department honored a group of firefighters on Saturday for their heroic efforts in saving the life of a hiker who suffered a silent heart attack while trekking in Temescal Canyon in June 2023.
The Fire Commission commended the firefighters, including Captain Michael McIndoe, Firefighter/Paramedic Jesse Beck, and others.
“The coordinated efforts of the members from Fire Station 69, the diligent 911 calltaker and the talented Air Operations not only resulted in the successful hoist rescue
of a hiker in distress but also saved the life of a man who was having a ‘silent heart attack’.” LAFD stated in a post.
On that day, a 55-year-old man hiking with friends in the Pacific Palisades suddenly felt weak and dizzy as they neared the trailhead.
Unbeknownst to him, he was experiencing a silent myocardial infarction, commonly known as a silent heart attack. When the hiker’s condition worsened, his friends called 9-1-1, triggering a comprehensive rescue operation. Task Force 69 and a paramedic rescue ambulance were dispatched to the scene, while LAFD Air Operations sent two helicopters to assist in the effort. Despite the challenging topography, which hindered communication, the firefighters successfully located the hiker.
Recognizing the signs of a serious heat-related emergency, the LAFD crew administered immediate medical care. When a 12-lead electrocardiogram revealed the hiker was in the midst of a heart attack, the team quickly hoisted him out of the canyon and airlifted him to a medical facility for advanced treatment.
Golden State Warriors Owner Lists Malibu
Pad for $44M: Report
Lacob, whose net worth is estimated at $2.1 billion by Forbes, purchased the mansion in 2019 for $29.1 million
Billionaire Joe Lacob, owner of the Golden State Warriors, has listed his luxurious Malibu mansion for $44 million,
according to a report from Realtor.com.
The oceanfront property, located on the exclusive Carbon Beach—often referred to as “Billionaires’ Beach”—is known for its high concentration of mega-mansions.
Lacob, whose net worth is estimated at $2.1 billion by Forbes, purchased the mansion in 2019 for $29.1 million. The initial asking price at that time was $34.5 million, but Lacob secured the deal for about 15% less.
The expansive 5,512-square-foot home spans three levels and features five bedrooms and 5.5 bathrooms. Positioned in one of Malibu’s most coveted locations,
the property offers panoramic ocean views and luxurious amenities befitting its hefty price tag.
The listing comes as Lacob, a prominent figure in both the sports and business worlds, continues to manage his various
investments, including his role as owner of the Golden State Warriors. The sale of this prime piece of Malibu real estate underscores the exclusive nature of Carbon Beach, a destination for the world’s wealthiest individuals.
