Pride LA - June 2024

Burbank Mayor Faces Backlash Over Playful

Video, Cites Critics Anti-LGBTQ+ Bias

Kiesza Unveils Epic Single “The Mysterious Disappearance of Etta Place”, Will Perform at OUTLOUD Festival

Electro-pop Star Fuses Folk

Mayor Konstantine Anthony Defends Actions Amid Controversy Over Video

By Dolores Quintana

Storytelling with Cutting-Edge Beats in New Song

Burbank Mayor Konstantine Anthony is facing criticism from conservatives following the circulation of a video showing him being spanked by a drag queen during an event on the weekend of September 10. Anthony has responded that some of his critics are motivated by anti-LGBTQ+ bias and that the incident was harmless.

all in good fun. He went on to reveal that a secretly recorded video was made during the event and subsequently shared with a prominent hate group.

reposted the video and garnered over 8 million views.

In response to the video, the Libs of TikTok

In the video, posted by the Wisenuts podcast, Mayor Anthony is seen being spanked by a drag artist, backed by the Village People’s “Macho Man.” Anthony described the events as “shenanigans” and emphasized that it was

In a post on his Instagram account, Anthony stated, “For several days, extremist right-wing organizations, including Fox News, have spread misleading information to fuel fear, discrimination, and hate. I will always be a proud supporter of the LGBTQ+ community and drag performers.”

Electro-pop superstar Kiesza has released one of the most unique songs yet. “The Mysterious Disappearance of Etta Place” showcases her artistry as a singer songwriter with deep roots in the vast windswept plains of Alberta, Canada. The song is inspired by the real life female member of Butch Cassidy’s Wild Bunch, Etta Place, who rode with infamous outlaws Butch Cassidy and The Sundance Kid. The fate of Etta Place is not known to history, and her life is not only shrouded with mystery but the glitters with the fame of the Wild West. “The Mysterious Disappearance of Etta Place.” has “a cinematic sweep, combining evocative spoken word, songcraft and cutting edge electronic beats.”

highlighted Kiesza’s abilities as a songwriter, vocalist, multiinstrumentalist and accomplished dancer, originating from her hometown of Calgary, AB. The track received extensive radio and video play and Top 20 chart placements across North America and Europe, three JUNO Awards, Gold, Platinum, and Double Platinum status in the US, UK and Canada, respectively, and launched her debut album Sound of a Woman.

He added, “On a busy Saturday filled with various independent gatherings, I attended the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats’ private fundraiser for their organization. Notably, there were no officially endorsed candidates or state and federal political figures present. The event was open to young adults ages 15 and above. However, there were no attendees below 18. Additionally, no children were present.”

We spoke with Kiesza about her new single, series of accompanying videos, and new music release in anticipation of her performance at the OUTLOUD Music Festival and the arrival of “The Mysterious Disappearance of Etta Place.”

While not specifying the particular hate group in question, it is possible that Anthony was referring to the Twitter account, now known as X, called “Libs of TikTok,” which

Bomb Threat Temporarily Halts

Long Live

You can watch the video here: https://youtu.be/0bJDCIygsrM?si =lDSkFptKXceokD2r

World Premiere of Documentary Was Screened After 20-Minute

Delay

Kiesza will be performing at the OUTLOUD Music Festival at Weho Pride on Sunday, June 2 as one of the Hot and Heavy Headliners. Kylie Minogue, Ashnikko, Diplo and Friends, Big Freedia, and Vincint, among others will be headlining the festival. VIP and Weekend GA tickets are sold out but you can get single day and weekend passes at https://www.weareoutloud.com/.

By Dolores Quintana

The premiere of “Lil Nas X: Long Live Montero” at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) faced a momentary setback on Saturday night due to a bomb threat.

Judy Lung, TIFF’s Vice President of Public Affairs and Communications, confirmed to CTV News Toronto via a written statement that the festival was alerted to an investigation “in the vicinity of the red carpet” at Roy

Kiesza’s latest music release, Dancing and Crying: Vol. 1, which was released on May 24 navigates the crux of dance, house, and electro-pop with the folk influences that have long shaped her songwriting. This fusion of genres reflects her artistic evolution since her award-winning debut single, “Hideaway,” and its memorable oneshot video that launched her career. With its release in 2014, “Hideaway”

Kiesza: It’s a small album with six songs and that’s because as it gives that away in the title There’s multiple volumes coming. so you can think of it more as a current of music to come with no definitive end on it. The style and the sound is something that I’ve just developed and I’ve just started honing. It’s the mix of my love of the dance floor, to just get down and get cool and, and just have a good time, but also wanting to create a more artist driven stream within the dance music culture. I want to bring more depth and storytelling to the dance music that I make. It’s opening up this whole other side of myself that has always been there.

Thomson Hall, where the documentary was set to be screened.

Lung stated, “Our standard security measures remained in place during this time, and the screening commenced with a slight delay. To our knowledge, this was a general threat and not directed at the film or the artist.”

It’s the side of me that got me into music, the singer/songwriter, the storyteller, the folk singer from the prairies of Canada. I kind of locked that side of me away when things picked up with “Hideaway.” But I always felt like some that was some of my best writing and now that I’m coming back into the dance scene, I just wanted to open up all of me to my audience. I wanted to bring all of that together. It took me a while to get the sound just right. But now that I feel like I have, I don’t want to stop. So there’s gonna be more to come.

Dolores Quintana: So you had shift in the artistic direction of your music and if

I understand correctly there were some events in your life that changed your outlook or, how you want to express yourself.

you about it. There is no reason to involve all of the other people who were not at a public event, not at a government-sponsored event. It

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Santa Clarita Valley Democrats voiced their support for Mayor Anthony and strongly denounced the sensationalized and inaccurate portrayal of their event for political purposes that promoted fear, homophobia, transphobia, and bigotry. The Democrats reaffirmed their commitment to the LGBTQ+ community and drag performers, refusing to engage with what

A spokesperson for the Toronto police informed CTV News Toronto that the threat had been conveyed to the festival’s private security by a passerby. “Out of an abundance of caution, the Toronto police and the private

Kiesza: There’s many of them. The most obvious one that people are starting to learn about now is the car crash that I was in. That crash left me with a pretty serious brain injury and it’s been seven years now of recovery. It was more than double the time that I’ve been on the scene, that I’ve spent recovering from a severe injury to my brain. The growth from that has been incredible, but the amount of time that it took and the time it’s still taking because I’m still dealing with it.

It’s something I never could have predicted and as a result of that, I’ve had to grow in such a profound way with being patient with myself. I had to let go of so much and understand that sometimes you have no choice but to start over. I’ve had to start over so many times, honestly. I just looked at it as a

security swept the scene and cleared it within 20 minutes,” noted Constable Victor Kwong. Toronto police also clarified that the threat had a general nature and did not specifically target any individual or entity.

new spark of creativity. I tried to look on the bright side that sometimes a fresh start is a good thing. So if I’m moving into a new chapter, what did I feel was missing from the one I left? I always felt that there’s a lot more to me than what my audience knows and I I want them to know all of that. I want them to receive all of me and not just this sort of branded small window, which is all very authentic.

I really love all the music I’ve made and it was all very much coming from me, but there was a lot that I wasn’t giving because it didn’t ft with the brand, maybe didn’t ft with what people saw this personality. It was authentic, but also it was just a small side of my personality and I just want to give more. This new music is me giving more and it’s freer. It’s gonna move in different directions and you’re gonna see this in future volumes. There’s wild sides to my personality. There’s really deep ones that deal with these existential conversations

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This is only a brief summary of important information about BIKTARVY® and does not replace talking to your healthcare provider about your condition and your treatment.

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BIKTARVY, the BIKTARVY Logo, GILEAD, the GILEAD Logo, and KEEP BEING YOU are trademarks of Gilead Sciences, Inc., or its related companies. © 2024 Gilead Sciences, Inc. All rights reserved. US-BVYC-0433 03/24

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THE MUSIC MINUTE

Continued from Page 1... So the feelings that accompany these unique scenarios that we all fall into within our own lives. That feeling that accompanies them is very much the same, I think. We can all connect to that. So if we’re willing to be honest about our experience and our feelings, I think that’s the best way to connect with an audience as a whole.

that we have with ourselves about: why are we even here in the first place? Then there’s the sides of me that just literally want to get on the dance foor and have a good time dressing up. Put on my lipstick, put on my fashion and just not think about anything else. So I’m just allowing myself to be a bit of a kaleidoscope artistically, but it’s all coming from the same source and that’s what ties it all together.

Dolores Quintana: Something that important to know about artists, with the spark of creativity, or whatever it is that you’re connecting to that brings the music or the art out of you. That spark or inspiration is going to change from time to time.

Kiesza: They say our weaknesses are our biggest strengths if we lean into them and that from the hardest thing from the hardest darkeness comes the light. It really is true. If you lean into the hardest moments and the hardest experiences in your life, there’s always something in that that connects to everyone. because we all go through hardships and we all go through really tough times, loss, confusion and the sense of not knowing why we’re here in isolation and feeling lonely.

Dolores Quintana: Artists are trying to communicate their view of the world or how they feel to their audience and sometimes it’s just let’s dance, but, other times it might be something different. But I was wondering if you could talk to me a little bit about your single, “The Mysterious Disappearance of Etta Place.”

Kiesza: Yeah, I love that song. That song is really special. First of all, it’s the first song in this new chapter of combining the folk singer songwriter Americana version of me with house music. This is the beginning of a new chapter completely, even though it’s the fourth song on this project. My friend Clay, who’s the poet at the beginning of the song, he’s a cowboy from Wyoming who I met. He was my AirBnb host. I go Dino Digging with some friends who are in the digging business, believe it or not.

Clay became the best part of our

Continued from Page 4...

adventures because he’s one of the most unique human beings I’ve ever met. He’s a historian and he studies the lives of all the outlaws that used to roam in Wyoming, like Butch Cassidy and Sundance Kid and all those bank robbers that made history and we make western movies about. He knows everything about them to the extent where he walked us to the land and showed us the remains of the cabins they lived in and listening to Clay tell stories is one of my favorite thing in the favorite things in the world.

I asked him one day because he such tells such beautiful stories. I assumed he must be a great writer. When I asked him what he has written, he said I’ve only written two poems in my whole life. He recited one of them to me. It’s

one he wrote when he was young. It hit me so deep when when he recited it and his voice was so deep. So I pulled out my phone and I asked him if I could record it and he recorded that on my iphone actually. I ended up building the song around that poem.

The song is about Etta Place who was the lover of the Sundance Kid who used to rob banks with Butch Cassidy. She was a bad ass female and there weren’t a lot of female outlaws and I like that about her.I thought let me lean into this story because when Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid were shot dead, Etta Place vanished and no one knows what happened to her.

It was this question of what happened to her and I put myself into her shoes. Well, if I was robbing banks and my lover got shot dead. I’d probably run with the gold. So I adopted that

perspective of this woman, dealing with death and loss, running away on horseback because she knows that the sheriff is going to be coming after her.

Dolores Quintana: While I was listening to the song, I noticed that you really put a feeling of being out there on the plains with the wind blowing. There’s this beautiful lonely feeling that is thematically connected to the music.

Kiesza: It’s an amazing history to learn about and Clay has real documents, real letters from all these people. It’s amazing what the artifacts that he’s found and even like coffee mugs, they’ve drunk out of. So cool. He just opened up my passion for learning like storytelling and that whole history. I wanted the song to be true to who he is as a person and he loves storytelling. So I wanted to tell a story.

Dolores Quintana: It sounds like meeting him and having him as a friend really inspired you as a storyteller because that song is really so much about that type of history and storytelling and it’s very exciting to hear. It’s really beautiful.

Kiesza: Music is as a form of art and however the musician feels like expressing it is, is their choice. But at the same time when you’re connecting with a whole world of people or a whole audience, you do have to think about how can I open up this experience to my whole audience in a way that they’ll feel like they are inside of this world. I wrote a song that’s not out yet, and I’ve noticed that people really connect with

the song in a way that they’ve never connected with any other song that I’ve written.

What the funny thing is and you always learn this in music, there’s no rules and if there are rules, you gotta break them at some point and someone always will.

Dolores Quintana: I think that’s key to creativity is that the, there’s always going be people going on about rules, but it’s important to really do it your way. To connect with yourself and your source and don’t worry about what other people are thinking about it, if you feel it.

Kiesza: Some people will connect with like the whole world, but then some people only connect with a small audience, but that audience might not ft into the whole world. It doesn’t matter that they’re not sweeping the globe with their music, because they have found a connection to a group of people that don’t know where they belong and they feel like they belong because of this artist. I think honest, true expression is the most important thing we have in this world and, making sure that everyone is being allowed this opportunity to be able to express themselves openly and freely with support. Because if you feel a certain way, there’s always another person who feels that way too. If you feel alone, there’s always another person who feels alone in the same way. When you find each other, it’s the most healing thing in the world.

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Cynthia Erivo, Mickalene Thomas, and MUNA Honored at Star-Studded Event

Los Angeles LGBT Center Gala Raises $1.6M for LGBTQ+ Services

The Los Angeles LGBT Center raised $1.6 million at its annual gala held Saturday night at the Shrine Auditorium. Nearly 900 supporters gathered to honor Cynthia Erivo, Mickalene Thomas, and MUNA for their contributions to the LGBTQ+ community.

Hosted by actor, writer, and comedian Joel Kim Booster, the event featured a surprise performance by music icon Jewel, who joined power pop trio MUNA onstage for a rendition of their hit “Silk Chiffon.”

Cynthia Erivo, a Grammy, Emmy, and Tony Award-winning and Oscarnominated actress received the Rand Schrader Award. Presented by Jada Pinkett Smith, the award recognized Erivo’s achievements in entertainment and her activism for the LGBTQ+ community. In her acceptance speech, Erivo highlighted the significance of art during polarized times, referencing her role in “Wicked”

and the story of Elphaba.

Mickalene Thomas, an acclaimed multidisciplinary artist, was honored with the Vanguard Award. Tasha Smith presented the award, recognizing Thomas’s advocacy for the complexities of Black and female identity in the arts.

“As our community faces unprecedented challenges, we all have a responsibility

to create change,” said Thomas. “Each and every one of us in the room has a responsibility in our own small ways—

wherever you are, however, we involve ourselves within the community. It takes one person.”

MUNA, who performed at the event, received the Leslie Jordan Award for Excellence in the Arts from singersongwriter Jewel. MUNA’s lead singer, Katie Gavin, spoke about the importance of striving for a better world despite challenges, honoring the late Leslie Jordan with her words.

The funds raised from the gala support the Center’s services, accessed more than 500,000 times per year by LGBTQ+ individuals. CEO Joe Hollendoner emphasized the Center’s role in combating increasing levels of hate and violence against the LGBTQ+ community in California.

“When our political opponents are at their worst, your Center is at its best,” Hollendoner said. “Nearly every day, I see a new young person arrive at our Anita May Rosenstein intergenerational campus, failed by the systems meant to care for them. But unlike the parents, schools, or religious institutions that have turned their backs on these teenagers, I see the Center opening our doors and welcoming these youth into a community like none other.”

Joel Kim Booster also announced the debut of the Center’s new PSA, “We Are Family,” voiced by actress Jennifer Garner. The event included three short films directed by Luke Gilford, featuring profiles of three Center clients, presented by RuPaul’s Drag Race alumni Symone, Valentina, and Laith Ashley.

Comedian Dana Goldberg led the live auction, featuring items from Mariah Carey and Christina Aguilera. The gala was supported by Gilead Sciences, Inc., Glamazon L.A.—Amazon’s LGBTQIA+ Affinity Group, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Contractors State License Schools, Construction Insurance Agency, PS, U.S. Bank, and American Airlines as the official airline partner.

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The Los Angeles LGBT Center Condemns Biden’s Executive Order Halting Asylum Requests

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Los Angeles LGBT Center Criticizes New Policy, Citing Danger to LGBTQ+ Refugees

In response to President Joe Biden’s executive order that will halt asylum requests at the southern border starting tonight, Terra Russell-Slavin, Chief Impact Officer for the Los Angeles LGBT Center, issued a strong statement of condemnation.

“Just days after acknowledging Pride Month, the Biden administration issued an executive order that will restrict people’s right to seek asylum in the United States, which will have a significant impact

on the LGBTQ+ community,” RussellSlavin said. “With language that’s similar to the Trump administration’s playbook, this executive order will greatly endanger countless lives.”

Russell-Slavin emphasized the daily legal support the Los Angeles LGBT Center provides to LGBTQ+ refugees seeking safety from persecution based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.

“The Biden administration cannot have it both ways: They cannot ‘celebrate’ Pride Month while turning their backs on LGBTQ+ individuals who are seeking the rights our movement is based on,” she added. “We strongly condemn this executive order and urge the President to immediately reverse this harmful action.”

official airline partner.

Hang-Ten Therapeutics-Surf Therapy for Kids: Catching Waves and Finding your Calm

type of

is making waves in Los Angeles.

Hang-Ten Therapeutics, founded by Naomi Matanick, a licensed pediatric occupational therapist with specialties in infant and child development, uses surfing as her primary method of intervention for children experiencing difficulty in development.

Difficulties such as processing sensory information can make skills that seem simple, feel insurmountable, impacting physical and emotional regulation, body awareness, motor skills, visual skills, and attention. Matanick found the ocean, and surfing, to be a grounding practice, and therefore, asked herself, how can this translate in the field of pediatric occupational therapy.

“I’ve always loved the water, the ocean, and have learned that surf therapy exists, but primarily, it exists in the world of adults. I saw the therapeutic benefits of the ocean for myself and wanted to see if I could really translate

what I do as an occupational therapist using surfing as a therapeutic tool for kids,” Matanick said.

Surf therapy combines the physical activity of surfing with structured activities to help promote physical, psychological, and social well-being. For kids, catching waves is a way to achieve therapeutic goals in a lowpressure environment.

“Sometimes, when kids engage in sports, there’s a lot of pressure for performance and socially. Without having the pressure of what might come with a sport, kids can play freely and be comfortable in their own bodies. I see what their specific needs are, like a motor goal or strengthening goal, and we use the surfboard to focus specifically on that goal,” she said.

Hang-Ten Therapeutics works to empower children, instill confidence and allow them to gain a stronger sense of self-identity and belonging through surfing, while gaining vital skills along the way.

Matanick said she may have a child who doesn’t have the physical ability to stand up on a surfboard or is terrified of the ocean. In that case, she encourages them to catch a wave on their stomach, or alternatively work with the elements

nearby – sand, water, or the board outside of the water – to achieve goals.

“We do some work on the beach and gradually, overtime, they get comfortable with moving onto the surfboard. The practice is adapted and changed for each individual child and their needs. Not only their needs, but their wants, as well,” Matanick said.

Some children have a hard time working through difficult emotions or find it challenging to be inside of a clinic. On the water or the beach,

Matanick said she has seen them gain back power and motivation on the beach and in the water, and all sudden, they are more regulated, listening and more attentive as they are working toward their goals in a free and playful space.

“It can be a really powerful experience for kids,” Matanick said.

To see if Hang-Ten is the right fit for your child’s occupational therapy needs, visit https://www.hang-tentherapeutics. com. Follow @hang_ten_therapeutics on Instagram to see more photos and content.

Soaring Twenties: Support International Bird Rescue in Gatsby-Themed Event

Giving A Voice to Waterbirds Through Conservation

By Susan Payne

A spectacular soiree is coming to Los Angeles to help showcase the historical and important work of International Bird Rescue, a global conservation organization that has responded to over 250 oil spills and wildlife emergencies and cared for more than 160,000 birds on six continents since its inception in 1971. Bird Rescue’s mission is to inspire people to act toward balance with the natural world by rescuing waterbirds in crisis.

Embrace glitz and glamor while making a difference in the lives of birds during the Soaring Twenties Benefit on the evening of June 8 at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.

Promising a night of opulence, style and grandeur, International Bird Rescue presents Hailey Winslow, an actress, FOX Los Angeles reporter, adventure

travel television host and friend of Bird Rescue, as master of ceremony. Guests can look forward to the incredible words of keynote speaker Tammah Watts, a bird storyteller, therapist and author of Keep Looking Up: Your Guide to the Powerful Healing of Birdwatching, followed by the live, vibrant sounds of 20s and 30s Jazzera music alongside a mix of modern pop, jazz and lounge hits from The Gatsby Gang.

International Bird Rescue aims to give a voice to waterbirds through conservation, emergency response, rehabilitation and research. Its history dates back to 1971 with founder Alice Berkner, a retired nurse and animal lover who helped to invent and formalize oiled bird rehabilitation following the Standard Oil accident in the San Francisco Bay.

The organization rehabilitates about 3,500-6,000 birds each year. The most treated bird species include Brown Pelicans, Western Gulls, Northern Fulmars, Western Grebes, American Coots, Common Loons, Black-crowned Night-Herons, Snowy Egrets, and Great Blue Herons.

“Our work saves lives each and every day. Whether orphaned, injured or fishhooked, birds need us, and thanks to our

volunteers and supporters we are able to respond, rehabilitate and release them back into the wild,” said Alex Domeyko, Director of Development and Partnerships.

Bird Rescue has crisis response centers in San Francisco, Los Angeles and Anchorage. The Soaring Twenties Benefit is the first major fundraising event the organization has held in Los Angeles. Proceeds will benefit the organization’s work in emergency preparedness and response, day-to-day aquatic bird care and scientific research.

Tickets for the soiree cost $200 with early bird pricing available until May 1st. Regular ticket prices increase to $225 after the first. The event includes dinner buffet and cash bar, a silent auction, live music, a best-dressed contest, and more. Millennium Biltmore offers daily and valet parking. Attendees are encouraged to don Gatsby or formal attire, spread their wings, and celebrate an evening of compassion and community.

“Your attendance at our benefit supports an incredibly worthy cause – we are all part of the natural world. Come enjoy a night of food, cocktails, music and fun at our Soaring Twenties event and make a difference for birds and nature,” Domeyko said.

To learn more about International Bird Rescue and its Soaring Twenties Benefit, visit birdrescue.org. Soaring Twenties Benefit tickets can be purchased here. To become a sponsor for the Soaring Twenties Benefit, email info@birdrescue. org.

Third Eye Blind’s Stephan Jenkins and Vanderpump Rules Katie Maloney Surprise Fans at Emo Nite in LA

Emo Nite Event at the Avalon

Features Special Performances and Celebrity Guests

Fans of emo music were treated to a surprise appearance by Stephan Jenkins of Third Eye Blind at Emo Nite last Friday at The Avalon. Jenkins, with his bandmate Colin Creev, performed renditions of “Jumper” and Paramore’s “The Only Exception,” delighting the crowd gathered at the iconic venue.

Joining in on the fun were notable personalities including Vanderpump Rules’ Katie Maloney and Dayna Kathan, Beauty School Dropout, Bryce Avary of The Rocket Summer, Nervous Kids, MVSSIE, and Not My Weekend.

Emo Nite, founded by Morgan Freed and T.J. Petracca in December 2014, has been instrumental in bringing emo music to broader audiences over the past decade. From humble beginnings at a dive bar in Echo Park, Emo Nite has evolved into a nationwide monthly dance party, bridging the gap between the classic emo scene and its emerging talents.

The event series has expanded to over 50 cities, fueling mosh pits from coast to coast. In recent years, Emo Nite has

made appearances at major festivals like Coachella, Hangout Music Fest, Bonnaroo Music & Arts Fest, and HARD Summer, among others.

Moreover, Emo Nite has announced new dates for this summer in cities such as San Diego, San Francisco, Honolulu, St. Louis, and more. Fans can purchase tickets at emonite.com, with a full list of dates available on the website.

In a recent development, Emo Nite has partnered with Insomniac, a leading music festival and live events organizer, to launch a brand new event series titled GRAVE at the TORCH. This collaboration is set to bring forth exciting music and apparel projects in the future, along with more live experiences for emo enthusiasts worldwide.

Snell; Alyssa Arreola, Student Trustee; Kathryn E. Jeffery, Ph.D.,

Westside Travel Series 2024

Santa Monica Hotel’s New Look and Enhanced Amenities Transform Lincoln Boulevard

Owner Announces Upcoming Versatile Event Space

By Susan Payne

Situated at the vibrant intersection of Grant Street and Lincoln Boulevard, the newly rebranded Santa Monica Hotel is casting a new light on the neighborhood with its refreshed façade and enhanced amenities. Jon Farzam, the visionary owner, is set to repurpose the hotel’s parking lot, providing the Santa Monica community with a novel outdoor event space that

promises versatility and charm.

Over the past four months, the transformation of this 30-room gem, previously known as the Santa Monica Motel, has been remarkable. Introducing a brighter color scheme, an engaging mural by a local artist, and strategically placed lighting that accentuates the central palm tree, the property has received a comprehensive makeover. The revamped courtyard now serves as a welcoming lounge, complete with breakfast service and access to electric bikes, enhancing guests’ experiences as they explore local cafes, shops, and the iconic Santa Monica Beach.

Addressing the outdated motel concept, Farzam was motivated by positive guest feedback to elevate the establishment’s status. “The transformation from a motel to a hotel reflects our commitment to providing an environment that exceeds guest expectations,” Farzam commented, emphasizing the importance of shedding the motel’s old persona for a more deserving, refined identity.

Highlighting the hotel’s unique features, Farzam adds, “Santa Monica Hotel now offers a fantastically unique backdrop for film and photography projects, echoing the creative spirit of our city.” The newly refreshed guestroom décor, featuring

stunning palm frond wallpaper and exquisite rattan furniture, ushers guests into vacation mode instantly. Modern amenities such as LED mirrors, Nespresso machines, and device charging stations in every room, along with table-top games on the patio, ensure a blend of comfort and entertainment.

To further enhance guest experience, the Santa Monica Hotel is proud to introduce a new texting service, allowing guests to seamlessly communicate with guest services for any requests, including ordering snacks and drinks directly to their room. This service ensures that our guests’ needs are met promptly and efficiently, providing an even more relaxed and catered stay.

Strategically located near the famous Third Street Promenade, the hotel offers

guests immediate access to this renowned outdoor shopping and dining esplanade, enhancing their stay with convenience and local culture.

The hotel’s intimate size fosters a cozy, personalized atmosphere, where the staff’s dedication to service shines through in thoughtful gestures, including handwritten notes for special occasions. “Our aim is to make every stay memorable, treating our guests to unparalleled hospitality and comfort,” Farzam asserts.

Looking ahead, the Santa Monica Hotel is preparing to launch a new phase in its evolution with the conversion of its parking lot into a dynamic space for art exhibitions, movie premieres, red carpet events, and concerts. “We’re excited to offer our space to the community, envisioning a hub for local events and celebrations,” says Farzam. Although the timeline for these enhancements is still under consideration, Farzam’s enthusiasm for collaboration with local event organizers and the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce is palpable, especially regarding the upcoming ribboncutting ceremony to officially unveil the hotel’s new event space and renovations. For a glimpse into the transformed Santa Monica Hotel, updated amenities, and booking information, please visit SantaMonicaHotel.com.

Hotel Casa Del Mar: The Epicenter of Springtime Diversions

Hotel Casa Del Mar stands as a beacon of vibrant coastal charm on Santa Monica Beach. Perfectly poised, the hotel’s majestic lobby and panoramic views usher in the essence of spring, creating an idyllic backdrop for culinary and musical adventures.

At Terrazza Restaurant, Chef Chad Huff brings his California expertise to an exciting new dinner menu, featuring handmade pastas and a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors and California coast harvests. This tantalizing menu reflects Chef Huff’s passion for sourcing the finest ingredients to create truly memorable dishes. Already well known for its weekend brunch, Terrazza introduces the Sunday Roast Dinner featuring the chef’s choice of slow-roasted Creekstone Prime Rib in a savory red wine sauce, hand-carved to order with sides that will end your weekend on an unforgettable and tasty note. https:// resy.com/cities/santa-monica-ca/venues/ terrazza?seats=2&date=2024-04-26

Caviar Tour at Terrazza, available every Friday, invites you on a culinary journey, showcasing caviar in distinctive styles. Experience a take on how French, Spanish, and American aficionados indulge in this luxurious aquatic delicacy.

As the warm weather beckons, Patio del Mar reopens for the spring and summer,

inviting guests to embrace al fresco dining at its best. Be sure to follow the Patio del Mar Highlight on Instagram for updates

on current hours and exciting new menu items to sip and savor!

https://resy.com/cities/santa-monica-ca/ venues/coast?seats=2&date=2024-04-26

During Sunset Hour, held Sunday through Tuesday from 3 pm to 6 pm in the Lobby Lounge, guests can unwind with

STEPS FROM THE BEACH

specially priced light bites and enjoy wine by the glass at half-off, $12 well drinks and $6 bottled beer. This relaxed atmosphere is perfect for toasting the longer days and a great excuse to stay later for the stunning sunsets.

Thursdays transform the Lobby Lounge into Taco ‘Bout Thursdays, from 3 pm to 11 pm featuring a signature margarita paired with your choice of gourmet tacos: Short Rib Birria, Chicken Tinga, or Fish Tacos. Each taco, served with a breathtaking ocean view, promises a taste of local flavor and the fresh zest of the sea.

https://www.hotelcasadelmar.com/ dining/lobbylounge

Live music fills the Lobby Lounge from Wednesday to Saturday evenings, creating

the perfect ambiance for socializing. Additionally, semi-private Lobby Cabanas accommodating parties of up to 12 people are available by reservation, offering an intimate and luxurious setting for special gatherings.

Mother’s Day at Casa del Mar is an affair to remember! There will be live music and a sumptuous menu any mother would love. Each mom will be honored with a special gift from Jenny Barker’s - The Flower Doctor, and guests can indulge in a spectacular dessert buffet, making the celebration as sweet.

Be sure to also check out the website for Casa del Mar’s sister property, Shutters on the Beach, located just next door. Shutters is also featuring seasonal events not to be missed. There’s a lot waiting for you where Pico Boulevard meets the beach!

MILES FROM THE ORDINARY

Mediterranean-inspired with a distinct beachy vibe, Casa Del Mar invites you to dine and unwind with three distinctive offerings open throughout the day.

Celebrating the rich culinary tapestry of the Mediterranean, Terrazza serves elevated coastal cuisine perfectly paired with artisanal cocktails, fine wines, and signature sangrias.

An all-day dining destination overlooking the Pacific Ocean, The Lobby Lounge is a luxurious beachside setting for drinks, light bites, and live music.

Dine al fresco just steps from the beach at Patio Del Mar, a lively, open-air bistro serving seafood and ocean views.

Marina del Rey Sportfishing: A Great Day on the Water

Fishing is a pastime like no other.

You can experience the nostalgia of that pastime in real time at Marina Del Rey Sportfishing — a fun, safe, familyfriendly and affordable getaway on the waters near Marina del Rey, a seaside community west of Los Angeles.

Whether you are a beginner or expert, Marina del Rey Sportfishing carries everything you need for a fishing trip on both public and private charters, designed for all ages and any level of fishing experience.

“Partyboat Sportfishing is a traditional activity that’s been around in California for about 100 years, it’s something that families and parents can do with their kids. It’s a great way to experience nature, get the kids away from the phones and tablets, and enjoy the outdoors,” said Rick Oefinger, president of Marina del Rey Sportfishing.

At different times throughout the day, Marina del Rey Sportfishing charters groups of friends and families on the water. Ling cod, sculpin, white fish,

“The hardest part of the whole trip is getting yourself here on time. Dress for outdoor activity and get yourself here!” Oefinger added.

Marina del Rey Sportfishing hosts six fleets for anglers to explore:

• New Del Mar, a 75-foot aluminum hull sportfishing vessel, is open for two half day trips per day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. The vessel features a full service galley with ice cold beer and one of the best cheeseburgers you’ll find on the Pacific waters.

• Spitfire is a big quick 65’ custom built ¾ day boat, with state of the art fish finding electronics and large bait capacity. Available daily from 6:30 a.m. until 3 p.m., the comfortable galley serves hot and cold meals with beverages.

• Betty O, the matriarch of the fleet, specializes in ¾ day trips for rock cod and bottom fishing daily from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Private charters are available for groups up to 25 on Tortuga & Tourist and on the six passenger Free Spirit. These are purpose built and all

and everything you need for a private, fun-filled sportfishing adventure.

• Mona Lisa Is Marina del Rey’s own bait company, ensuring that private boaters and the entire fleet has all the live bait they could need. The bait dock offers walk up live bait sales, private boater live bait sales, and frozen squid and anchovies.

only what you need!

All boats carry California One-Day Fishing Licenses aboard for anyone over the age of 15 who needs a license. Tickets can be purchased online at WWW.MDRSF.COM ranging from $4585 per ticket depending on the trip. All tickets include bait, and all trips depart Dock 52. Using maps, search “Dock 52

Shutters on the Beach Brings Beachside Spring Celebrations

As spring unfurls with super blooms and sunsets after 7pm along the California coast, Shutters on the Beach emerges as the most sublime destination for seasonal festivities and fare. While its direct beachfront location brings the soothing hint of ocean breezes, Shutters idyllic setting welcomes those seeking a natural haven from their daily hustle and bustle.

Here’s how you can “spring into summer” on the beach at Shutters:

Sunset Hour happens Tuesday through Thursday at Coast Café and Bar, bringing casual beachside charm and a menu that sings of spring harvest. From 3 pm to 6 pm, the Coast Bar becomes a vibrant scene of hotel guests and locals enjoying exquisite cocktails and light, flavorful bites and half off beer and wine and $12 well cocktails. https://resy. com/cities/santa-monica-ca/venues/ coast?seats=2&date=2024-04-26

Aperitivo Night is back in The Living Room, a sophisticated yet welcoming lounge with fireside and al fresco seating.

Ideal for enjoying an evening aperitif or a night cap every Wednesday from 6 pm to 10 pm. Engaging Executive Chef Vittorio Lucariello presents his favorite cheese and charcuterie from around the world prepared to your preferences.

Enjoy Live Music in the Living Room evenings from Monday through Saturday.

https://www.shuttersonthebeach.com/ dining/living-room

Don your favorite spring fashion and sunnies for a leisurely afternoon at St. Germain’s Le Jardin in The Courtyard from Friday to Sunday from 11am to 7pm. Sip refreshing elderflower infused Hugo Spritzes and Lemonade in the Shade in a relaxing garden party setting.

Chef Sean Runyon’s Simply Grilled Menu at 1 Pico Restaurant remains a standout, serving dinner Thursday to Monday from 5:30pm 9:30pm. Its panoramic views and menu blend Californian innovation with global influences, providing a journey that complements its stunning coastal setting.

https://resy.com/cities/ santa-monica-ca/venues/1pico?seats=2&date=2024-04-26

Mother’s Day is just around the corner so plan for May 12 merriment with the woman who gave you life! Reserve early

as seating is already limited!

After exploring what’s happening at Shutters, be sure to check out Shutters’ sister property Hotel Casa Del Mar next door. Casa’s lively offerings and additional distinctive dining options ensure that the vibrant spirit of Santa Monica’s two premiere beachfront luxury hotels will provide the finest seaside activity and excitement.

coastal culinary experience

Just steps from Santa Monica’s iconic oceanfront, Shutters on the Beach offers coastal-inspired dining day and night from three exceptional restaurants, each featuring stunning ocean views.

Discover Wine Country in LA’s

Tour The Hills With Malibu Discovery

Enjoy a day of indulgence tasting wines and discover wine country — tucked away in LA’s backyard region of the Santa Monica Mountains in historic Malibu.

Taking you there is Malibu Discovery, an elevated tour experience that showcases the uniqueness and scenic beauty of LA’s most exciting venues and locations, founded by Ken Fasola and Mike Dwyer more than 10 years ago.

“Most people think about celebrities, beaches and surfing in Malibu and while that’s true, the most unique and beautiful scenery is found in wine country, historical Malibu, in the hills,” Fasola said.

Malibu Discovery offers a variety of signature and custom tours excursions and has earned the reputation as one of LA’s Best Tour Companies, hosting over 14,000 tours since its inception.

“Our mission was to create a signature tour that showcased and highlights all the great things about Malibu,” Fasola said. “But we’ve grown in the last 10 years, and showcase more of LA’s unique and beautiful history. For locals, it’s the perfect way to learn about the history of our own backyard.”

Malibu Discovery’s signature tour, the Malibu Wine Trail Tour, is a stunning journey along the Pacific Coast and into the canyons of Malibu Wine Country, which now boasts its own AVA, or American Viticultural Area, a specific type of appellation of origin on wine labels. This six-hour tour explores the variety of wines that Malibu has to offer at tasting rooms like Rosenthal, Cornell and Stonehaus.

For connoisseurs of wine who also love sightseeing and adventure, Malibu Discovery hosts a number of sightseeing tours, with a little less wine, more adventure, Fasola said.

The Premier Getty Wine Tour is an unforgettable day of world-class art, wine and delicious food visiting the world-famous Getty Villa Museum along the Pacific Coast in Malibu.

“From a cultural standpoint, the Getty Villa is absolutely stunning and world class — that tour has the broadest cultural aspects, Greek and Roman antiquities housed in a re-created Roman country home, it’s outstanding,” Fasola said.

The Malibu Movie & Celebrity Lifestyle Tour takes guests through mountain passes with ocean views to spot celebrity homes and visits a famous Hollywood western film set and other movie and television locations.

For early risers, Malibu Discovery offers a Sunrise Hiking Tour above the “City of Angels” on a three-mile hike at Will Rogers Historic State Park up to Inspiration Point.

With so much to choose from, Malibu Discovery is your ticket to the hills and a

viewpoint of LA’s history unlike any other.

“Geographically, Malibu is one of the biggest cities in the country, 21 miles down the coast and 10 miles inland with only 13,000 residents. It’s kind of rural and spread out, so to know all the secrets and pockets of history that are found here, you need a guide. You can’t take an Uber and get the same experience,” Fasola said.

“All of our tours are journeys. Afterward, people have explored so many parameters

and aspects of Malibu and everything comes together because our tours and professional tour guides have set the bar high in this industry,” he added.

Malibu Discovery offers its tours for corporate events, both large and small, parties, special occasions, custom tours and romantic getaways, available year round.

To reserve your tour, visit MalibuDiscovery.com.

A Favorite Among Frequent Travelers: H. Savinar Luggage Co

Get Away With Luggage You Can Trust

By Susan Payne

For all your travel and exploration needs this summer, H. Savinar Luggage Co. is a dealer you can trust.

Serving Los Angeles with two brick and mortar locations, H. Savinar has been helping generations of family find brand name, quality luggage since its inception in 1916 — more than a century ago — and is one of the oldest luggage stores in the United States.

Whether you are looking for luggage with multi-terrain maneuverability or security and durability for peace of mind while traveling, your next destination should be an H. Savinar retail store in either Culver City or Canoga Park.

“Our warehouse is filled with one of the

Fun,

sun,

largest selections of nationally advertised brands of luggage, briefcases, laptop cases and travel accessories at the guaranteed lowest prices,” said Joey Diamond, owner of H. Savinar.

Diamond has had a 39-year relationship with the company, starting out as a monogrammer, then moving into sales, and eventual ownership of the company in 2016, after the 2010 passing of Lewis Savinar, son of former owners Hyman and Harold.

“I quickly jumped into Lewis’s shoes to keep the business running. This was especially difficult because of how close we were. Lewis treated me like a son and he was widely respected in the industry. Not easy to fill those shoes,” Diamond said.

H. Savinar carries most major brands such as Briggs & Riley, Tumi, Victornox, Bric’s, Samsonsite, Travel Pro, Delsey, High Sierra, Ricardo, Roncato and Swiss Army, and is an authorized dealer for every line.

“We vigorously search for a better advertised price on our products, and

and

therefore, consistently have the lowest prices in the industry. Whatever your travel needs are, we have the right bag at the right price and we’re here to service it if anything goes wrong,” Diamond said.

Throughout H. Savinar’s 108 years of business, the company has forged excellent relations with a number of manufacturers and customers, giving you the best options for luggage that fit your need.

“We treat customers like family here. This is one of those stores that right when you walk in, you know you’re going to have a good experience. We don’t just try to sell you a piece of luggage. We find out your traveling habits and needs to find you the right bag. Once we find it, we’ll make sure you know all the features,” said Diamond.

Before a piece of luggage leaves H. Savinar’s warehouse, each item is inspected for quality. The company is also an authorized repair center for most manufacturers.

“We’ve seen a lot of changes in the 108 years we’ve been in business, but one thing that hasn’t changed is our dedication to our

loyal customers,” Diamond said. MONGRAMMING

AND CORPORATE SALES

In addition to a numerous selection of luggage, H. Savinar offers personalized monogramming and embroidery services — initials, names or company logos. For luggage, this is essential in differentiating your personal belongings from another while traveling.

For companies looking to treat their employees, H. Savinar offers company logo monogramming or embroidery and individual labeling and shipping direct to your customers.

H. Savinar Luggage can be found in Culver City at 10730 Washington Boulevard (323-938-2501), open Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Canoga Park at 6931 Topanga Cyn Boulevard (818-7031313), open Monday through Saturday 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

More information can be found on savinarluggage.com.

nostalgia at Pacific Park on

Perhaps you visited as a child or a teenager. Maybe these days you enjoy it with your kids. Or maybe you’ve only seen the fun from a distance. Either way, you’re

probably familiar with the iconic presence of Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier: the enormous silhouette of the Ferris wheel; the roller coaster emitting screams of delight; and the colorful swoop of the Sea Dragon ride.

Looking directly out on the Pacific Ocean, Pacific Park is an amusement park like no other. Millions of visitors enjoy it each year, and it’s not hard to see why, with a dozen rides, popular Midway arcade games and delicious over-ocean dining— including those classic funnel cakes of course!

And then there’s the weather. Those who live in Santa Monica know we enjoy an average of 280 days of sunshine a year, making this one of the sunniest amusement parks, as well as the only West Coast amusement park directly located on a pier. It’s also the only Los Angeles’ amusement

LOS ANGELES

park that you can enter totally free of charge.

Pacific Park’s purpose is to provide an authentic California amusement experience, where guests of all ages play together in a safe and unrivaled setting. And, over the years, the park has been continually upgraded and improved upon so that the fun never stops.

“We are always looking at new and exciting ways to improve the visitor experience,” says Nathan Smithson, Director of Marketing and Business Development at Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier. “This means new rides including Shark Frenzy and the Seaside Swing, games such as Whac-A-Mole, and exciting new food offerings while staying true to guests’ favorites like burgers, hotdogs, and Scoops Icecream & Treats.”

The Park opened in 1996, and having a tight maintenance schedule is important to make sure everything stays in tip-top shape. This includes recently refurbishing the famous ‘Inkie’ octopus that sits above the entranceway welcoming visitors.

Among its many other attractions, the Park is perhaps most famous for its Pacific Wheel—the world’s first and only solarpowered Ferris wheel. Measuring 85 feet, the wheel moves at 2.5 revolutions per minute with intermittent stops to pick up passengers.

Not only does the wheel provide incredible views of the Southern California coastline and Los Angeles skyline from more than 130 feet above the Pier, but

it’s also lit up in the evenings by more than 174,000 energy-efficient LED lights. These lights provide spectacular computergenerated visual entertainment and special programming to commemorate holidays and special events.

Pacific Park also boasts the only West Coast steel roller coaster located on a Pier over the Pacific Coastline. Riders are treated to refreshing ocean sprays as they rise to 55 feet in the air, enjoying spectacular views before a thrilling drop and 35 mph ride that circles the park. Another ride, Inkie’s Scrambler, is a 12-car fast-paced ride that performs a series of roundabout moves and rotations at more than 11 revolutions per minute. And Pacific Plunge is a 44foot exhilarating tower ride that leaves riders feeling weightless while providing a breathtaking view of the Pacific.

Pacific Park is so iconic it has appeared in over 500 movies and television shows, including Fat Albert, Hannah Montana, Kidsongs, 90210, Bean, and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, as well as the popular video game Grand Theft Auto V. All of this makes for the quintessential Southern California experience. So, whether you want to test your skills on the Midway video games, win prizes at the Ring Toss and Water Race, be thrilled on the West Coaster, or make memories of a lifetime, you’ll be taking part in a little bit of SoCal history while you’re at it

Progress Pride Flag to Fly Over Los Angeles City Hall

During Pride Month

City Council

Unanimously Votes to Approve Pride Flag Ordinance

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass signed an ordinance last Friday to fly the LGBTQIA+ Pride Flag above Los Angeles City Hall and over other Los Angeles City Buildings during Pride month. The initiative, spearheaded by Councilman Tim McOsker, marks a historic moment for the city.

The Los Angeles City Council approved the motion unanimously.

“I’m proud to have signed this historic motion to fly the pride flag over City Hall,” Mayor Bass said. “Our message to the rest of the country and to the world is clear – now more than ever, we must stand together. I want to thank Councilman Tim McOsker and the rest of the City Council for working together to get this done. We know the harm that discrimination and hate bring, and I’m proud that in Los Angeles, we accept our LGBTQIA+ community with open arms.”

The first rainbow Pride Flag was designed in 1978 by Gilbert Baker and was intended to be a “symbol of hope” for the LGTBQ community and another symbolic option other than the pink triangle.

FBI and DHS Warn of Potential Threats to LGBTQIA+ Events in June

Foreign Terrorist Organizations Could Target Pride Celebrations

The FBI and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) are alerting the public to potential threats from foreign terrorist organizations (FTOs) or their supporters targeting LGBTQIA+ events and venues. The announcement aims to raise awareness ahead of the upcoming June 2024 Pride Month, when gatherings are expected to increase.

FTOs may exploit these gatherings to commit or inspire violence, particularly against Pride celebrations or LGBTQIA+related venues. This concern is heightened by the current elevated threat environment in the United States and other Western countries. FTOs have a history of promoting anti-LGBTQIA+ rhetoric and targeting related events or venues for attacks.

In a specific example cited, Englishlanguage ISIS messaging in February 2023 featured an article focused on antiLGBTQIA+ rhetoric and encouraged attacks on unspecified soft targets. The

Pulse Nightclub shooting in Orlando on June 12, 2016, which resulted in 49 deaths and 53 injuries, was praised by pro-ISIS messaging as a high-profile attack in Western countries.

Further, in June 2023, three individuals allegedly sympathetic to ISIS were arrested for plotting to attack a Pride parade in Vienna, Austria, using knives and a vehicle.

The announcement also highlights indicators of potential threat activity, including violent threats online or in person, surveillance of events or venues attempts to gain access to restricted areas, and inquiries about security measures.

Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.

Vegan Women’s Summit Restaurant Week Comes to Ubuntu With Special Menu

Ubuntu, the plant-based restaurant boasting West African-inspired flavors and led by 2022 James Beard Award semifinalist Shenarri Freeman, has launched “TwentyTues,” a weekly event featuring curated $22 bottles of wine for patrons enjoying the patio. The restaurant was also named one of the 50 Best New Restaurants in America by Esquire Magazine in 2023.

Nestled amidst blossoms, palms, and verdant foliage, Ubuntu’s tranquil Melrose Avenue patio provides a serene backdrop to Chef Shenarri “Greens” Freeman’s innovative vegan fare, which draws inspiration from Africa. Signature dishes like Palm Bisque and Curry Jollof Arancini adorn the menu, promising a culinary

journey through vibrant flavors.

The “TwentyTues” offering, available every Tuesday from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m., combines Chef Shenarri’s delectable creations with affordably priced wines, promising a delightful twilight garden party experience. Located at 7469 Melrose Avenue in West Hollywood, Ubuntu operates from 5:00 to 10:00 pm, Tuesday through Sunday, with special weekly events like “TwentyTues” and “Soul Food Sundays.”

The restaurant is participating in the Vegan Women’s Summit Restaurant Week! Starting today through Sunday, May 12, we are serving a special tasting menu for $50 per person.

Tasting Menu:

1st Course

Jollof Arancini - curry, chermoula

2nd Course

Charred Okra Salad - pigeon peas, red kidney beans, passion fruit vinaigrette

3rd Course (served with rice)

Choice of Maffe Stew or Red Red Stew

4th Course

Puff Puff Bread - blueberry compote & seasonal ice cream

For more details or reservations, visit www.ubuntula.com or call (323)433-4141.