Downtown Weekly LA

DOWNTOWN WEEKLY THE SPIRIT OF DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

WWW. DTLAWEEKLY.COM VOL 21. NO 3 - MAR 27 - APR 2, 2025

DTLA

MAKEOVER DR. BABRY OREN

FOLIUM PX 2025

WOMEN TO WATCH

RONDA JACKSON CHANGE AGENT FOR SUCCESS

LITTLE TOKYO

STREET FAIR

TO BE OR NOT TO BE? PHOTO BY

BASIM ABDEL AZIZ

FEAST

2 FRESH NEW LOOK OF DOWNTOWN WEEKLY THE

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dtla weekly

the spirit of downtown los angeles

on the GONE TOO SOON: THE ORIGINAL PANTRY...3 LITTLE TOKYO STREET FAIR...4 cover: 10 great late night eats... 5 photo:

BASIM ABDEL AZIZ location: TARZAMA HQ

WOMEN TO WATCH: RONDA JACKSON....7 RECLAIMING VITALITY: FOLIUM PX...8 FEAST. AT COUNTS DEN...10 DTLA BOOK WORM...12 MAP INSIDE....15

THE STYLISTS

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DR. OREN BABRY

DTLA WEEKLY Editor and Chief ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND, LLC Contributing Writers KERI FREEMAN JAIME HERRERA JACKSON ROBERTS HANNAH PLAYAH COURTNEY LINDEMANN Lead Photography THE LEGENDARY GARY LEONARD BASIM ABDEL AZIZ ERIC EPPERSON Video Production Social Media Design and Layout @kerisellsdtla

Special thanks to...

MAYOR OF LOS ANGELES & Council District 14 THE CITY OF LA ARTS DISTRICT CHINATOWN CIVIC DISTRICT BUNKER HILL ECHO PARK EXPO/USC HISTORIC CORE LITTLE TOKYO FASHION DISTRICT FINANCIAL DISTRICT SKID ROW SOUTH PARK WAREHOUSE DISTRICT THEGRAWN & ARTWALK NEWS

DTLA WEEKLY

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DTLA WEEKLY - The Spirit of Downtown Los Angeles DTLA NEWS l EVENTS l LIFESTYLE I HOSPITALITY 334 S. MAIN STREET - OLD BANK DISTRICT - DOWNTOWN LA 888-732-DTLA (3852) @DTLAWEEKLY WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

DTLA COMMUNITY MATTERS: ORIGIGAL PANTY BY KERI FREEM

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Gone Too Soon: A Piece of DTLA History,

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The Original Pantry, Closes After 100 Years

t seems like only yesterday we stood in line for six hours stretched around the block outside The Original Pantry.

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t felt just like yesterday, but instead of just waiting with locked knees outside the doors for the host to call the next guest, DT Weekly went to take what may very well have be our last bite, as news spread that The Original Pantry, a stalwart of downtown Los Angeles, was shuttering its doors?

Say it isn’t so.

For 100 years, The Original Pantry wasn’t just a restaurant; it was a living, breathing testament to the city’s resilience. Opened around the clock, it was a haven of comfort, community, and tourism alike.

Within its no-nonsense atmosphere, generous portions of unwavering commitment made the Pantry a haven for late-night workers, weary travelers, celebrities, politicians, and thousands of people who didn’t mind waiting in line for hours for a chance to eat. The clatter of plates, the sizzle of bacon, and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee formed a symphony unique to its walls, and almost everyone in LA has a story.

How did we get to this?

In the years before its closing, The Original Pantry was owned by former Los Angeles Mayor Richard Riordan, yet following his death in 2023, the restaurant’s ownership passed to his estate.

The decision to close the Pantry was made by the estate, with a focus on prioritizing the charitable mission of the Riordan Foundation and eventually selling the property.

Photos courtesy of The Original Pantry Cafe

This shift in priorities ultimately led to the end of the Pantry’s century-long run.

With news of the sale, a local union, Unite Here UNION Local 11 that represented the long-time employees actively advocated for their members. Their demands centered on ensuring that employees would retain their positions under any new ownership, that their union contract would be honored, and that union representation would continue with whatever new owners came about. A decision the estate said could hamper their abilities to find a potential buyer.

Despite evidence The Pantry supported its workers, seen here from the 100th-year celebratory post, stating, “Happy 100th anniversary to us. This day would not have been possible without Mayor Richard Reardon and the love he had for his restaurant and all the hard work of our employees, as well as all the support from our loyal customers. Thank you to everyone who came to celebrate with us, and cheers to 100 years.”

When news of the restaurant’s pushback hit the internet, fans of the restaurant began expressing their opinions.

Soon nostalgic recollections of latenight pancakes, hearty steaks, and signature coleslaw would be served with a side of salt as a wave of support for the workers emerged, stating Riordan estate’s handling of the closure was unfair.

Amidst the negativity commentary and daily protest outside its doors, the estate doubled down, and instead of participating in ongoing disputes, cancel culture, and picket lines that could diminish its brand’s favor forever, it decided it would close.

The changing landscape of downtown Los Angeles undoubtedly also played a role in the decision to sell. Shifting demographics, the pandemic, and the increasing competition from trendy new eateries have put immense pressure on the long-standing business.

For those who spent countless hours in and outside its walls, the closure leaves a void that will be difficult to fill.

The Pantry’s legacy, however, will live on in the stories and memories shared by the countless patrons who found solace within its comforting embrace. Now, we find ourselves in line once again, this time for a buyer knowing that regardless of what the future holds, on the corner of 9th and Olympic, one thing is certain: good things come to those who wait.

4 GET2DTLA: LITTLE TOKYO STREET FAIR BY JACKSON ROBERTS

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Whispers of Ancient Traditions and Modern Vibrancy at Little Tokyo Street Fair

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eneath traditional Japanese lanterns and the shade of trees, the Little Tokyo Street Fair unfolds.

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his quarterly event transforms the passageway that marks the entrance just outside Weller Court and is bordered by the Ellison S. Onizuka monument at 2nd and San Pedro Streets.

Discovering everything from handcrafted ceramics and unique souvenirs to delicious Japanese cuisine, Little Tokyo Street Fair offers a diverse tapestry of traditional and contemporary community offerings.

Each kiosk at the fair keeps a steady crowd of rotating buyers, visible from the street, making the street fair as much an exploration of Little Tokyo as a heartfelt expression of local talent.

Bozu Luck is Good for the City

Among the assortment of discoveries, one captivating highlight is the potted plant collection by Bozu, a family-run business specializing in curating handcrafted pottery with growingJapanese plant assortments.

Each Bozu design is unique,

thoughtfully selected as it resonates with its new caretaker.

Other notable vendors include Bailey Kikuchi and Kenneth Higashi, the coowners of Kiosk Boys, who showcase their one-of-a-kind custom clothing line, blending urban fashion with art and musical influences.

Over the years, Bozu plants have become a DTLA-designated good luck charm due mostly to the rare chance to discover a Bozu plant in downtown, exclusively at Free tastings, art displays, jewelry, psychic Boxx Coffee in the Arts District and during readings, and other artisan crafts further the fair. enrich the fair’s offerings. Welcoming the soft winds of spring amongst friends and Certain plants offered by Bozu, like the neighbors, the Little Tokyo Street Fair revered bonsai, are believed to bring good takes place March 29th from 12pm to 5pm fortune and prosperity, making any city at Welles Court, 123 Ellison S. Onizuka dwelling complete.

Drive.

Kiosk Boys one of a kind designs

10 GREAT PLACES: HOLIDAY GIFTS BY KERI FREEMAN

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5 DTLA APPETITE: LATE NIGHT EATS BY KERI FREEMAN

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10 Great Places for Late Night Eats Viewers and Chewers at Anwar’s Kitchen

or many people, long after the clubs, bars, and sports arenas let out, Downtown LA becomes a ghost town. But even ghosts get hungry, and now that our beloved Original Pantry Café is out of commission, we thought we’d take the time to let people know where they can grab a bite in the wee hours of the morning.

DANNY'S TACOS HISTORIC COR

DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Anwar’s Kitchen is open until 4 AM, long after Amal and her flying slipper have called it a night.

LA CAFE HISTORIC CORE

Through the Fire at Danny’s Tacos

Closing at 2am on week nights and 3am on the weekend, all anyone needs to know about Danny’s Tacos is that they’re open on at least four separate corners along 7th Street in Downtown Los Angeles when and where we need them the most; in the latenight hours of the city.

Although they offer almost every taco variety known to man, they set themselves apart with handmade tortillas, and 100 percent late-night community approval rating.

DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Danny’s Tacos now delivers!

Anwar Jibawi, the Chicago-born Palestinian-American, is a comedic force known for his hilarious online skits filmed right here in Downtown Los Angeles.

When he’s not busy trying to charm women six-feet taller than him or attempting to out-boot a ranchero, Anwar’s bringing real-world flavor to Anwar’s Kitchen in the Fashion District.

The menu boasts 100% Halal-certified dishes, from flavorful shawarma and kabobs to fluffy pita and signature sauces, all made from scratch using fresh, local ingredients and imported spices.

ANWAR'S KITCHEN FASHION DISTRICT

TACOS MEXICAN ON BROADWAY

Historic Tastes of LA Cafe

From Flame to Fame at Tacos Mexico

Is that the sun coming up? Crispy Belgium Waffles with strawberries, whipped cream, and powdered sugar are like a ray of sunshine. Doesn’t matter if it’s 3 a.m. or 3 p.m.; from dusk til’ dawn, LA Cafe is slinging deliciousness.

Carne asada, carnitas, al pastor, and pollo—all seasoned by hand, marinated, and cooked on the spot—Tacos Mexico never fails to soak up the after-hours fun.

Too smashed? Never! LA Cafe’s Spicy Double Smash Burger is like an emergency reset button and the tastiest haze ever experienced.

DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Their Oreo Cookie Milkshakes are sure to keep the night rolling.

Don’t hate the player, hate the game.

Open 24/7, Tacos Mexico caters to the stars on Broadway from the north and south; it’s the perfect spot to keep the latenight DTLA party theatrics going.

DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Tacos aren’t the only late-night treasures fresh from the grill. Taco Mexico throws down burritos, sopes, gorditas, tortas, and nachos, packed and stacked with choice of meats, rice, and frijoles.

DTLA 2025 WOMEN TO WATCH: RONDA JACKSON BY KERI FREEMAN

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DTLA Women to Watch:

Ronda Jackson Change Agent for Success

Photo courtesy Studio D Contract Finishes

“We sell paint. We create jobs.

We build community.”

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Ronda Jackson has been recognized as the Supplier of the Year by the Southern California Minority Supplier Development Council for four consecutive years, was named the Women’s Business Enterprise Council (WBEC) – West Star and Enterprising Woman of the Year in 2018, and was honored as the Woman Business Owner of the Year by NAWBOLA.

Ready for Home Beautification wo things or Office Renovation?

As a Small Business Commissioner are certain As a UCLA graduate with a degree in for the City of Los Angeles, she directly when an Interior and Environmental Design, Ronda impacts policy and fosters a thriving brings a unique level of expertise to every entrepreneurial ecosystem, understanding extraordinary client. From famous galleries in the Arts that a successful business needs more woman like District to the high-rise offices and luxury than just quality materials; it needs Ronda Jackson comes to lofts, Studio D Contract Finishes offers strategic guidance and unwavering interior design consultations, support. town: first, as a supplier personalized helping to bring out the right color match She’s also completed programs like of Benjamin Moore paint for foundational elements of artistic the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small expression, architectural elegance, and through her Studio D Business Program, equipping her with a personal spaces throughout the city. comprehensive toolkit to guide others.

Contract Finishes, in the After 16 years of proudly serving the Old Bank District she’ll As the author of “Stay the Course: Boyle Heights community, Studio D Surviving the Nine Hellish Holes become one of the best Contract Finishes has transitioned to of Entrepreneurship,” she provides options for any project, Downtown Los Angeles, establishing itself valuable insights into overcoming at Shops on Main in the Old Bank District. challenges and scaling for success. Her and second...

This strategic move has placed Ronda at

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hrough her entrepreneurial leadership programs, she’ll become one of the best instrumental designers of success for local entrepreneurs who may cross her path, blending her expertise and resources to create a custom color palette especially for their success.

the epicenter of change and revitalization.

Not just part of the neighborhood’s growth; she’s becoming a catalyst for it, actively participating in community revitalization by being a fair chance employer.

Ronda’s Studio D offers transitional employment and skill-building opportunities through programs like Paint on Purpose, offering employment Why? Because Ronda Jackson supplies opportunities for veterans, foster youth, Benjamin Moore paint, one of the and justice-involved individuals while country’s most trusted brands dating back creating opportunities to reenter the to 1883. And although you can purchase workforce, gain a sense of purpose, and Benjamin Moore products at select gain professional skills. hardware retailers, Ronda offers a distinct advantage.

“Road to Recovery” podcast shares stories of resilience, offering inspiration and practical advice, actionable insights, and encouragement to fellow entrepreneurs facing their own challenges.

Ronda says her ethos has always been centered around adaptability and responsiveness, which she believes are the cornerstones of success, not just for her business but for her clients as well, and being prepared to meet the market’s everchanging needs.

More than just an entrepreneur.

Ronda Jackson is a movement—a testament to perseverance. She’s not just a designer transforming spaces; she’s a change agent transforming lives.

Continued on page 10.

8 DTLA MAKEOVER: DR BABRY OREN BY KERI FREEMAN

VOL 21. NO 3 - MAR 27 - APR 02, 2025 DTLAWEEKLY.COM

RECLAIMING VITALITY WITH DR. BABRY OREN

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As Dr. Babry Oren, he has been nominated for the Lasker Award, the US version of the Nobel Peace Prize in Physiology and Medicine, and his studies have been published for four consecutive years in the Journals of the National Academy of Sciences of Georgia.

r. Babry Oren is the visionary innovator behind Folium products...

Seems Folium products are revolutionary new supplements, designed to support the body’s natural detoxification processes and combat the cumulative effects of urban living.

A man on a mission.

Dr. Oren’s mission extends beyond selling a product; for him, it’s about providing the tools for individuals to actively support their well-being.

“Reclaiming vitality,” as Dr. Oren told the Los Angeles Business Journal (2024), “the benefit to the community is clear: supporting individual health through a natural supplement.”

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onfronting a constant barrage of pollutants, heavy metals, and stress—a “Molotov cocktail” of free radicals harmful to the body— Folium pX, with its scientifically backed formulation, offers a way to bolster our natural defenses and support our body’s detoxification processes. Folium products are about empowering individuals to combat the everyday stressors of modern life,” says Dr. Oren.

Where nature meets science

Dr. Oren’s journey began with a pivotal moment in 2005, during a visit to his native Georgia, where he discovered an all-natural supplement developed by scientists to mitigate radiation effects from the 1986 Chernobyl disaster.

The city’s allure is undeniable, yet its hidden challenges demand a proactive approach to well-being. pine parts, and grape seed extract, known for promoting detox with natural ingredients.

The supplement’s ability to cleanse free radicals has garnered international recognition for Dr. Babry Oren.

Recognizing its potential, Dr. Oren, who holds two master’s degrees in economics, acquired the rights to the formula in 2008 and later introduced Folium pX to the global market.

In 2023, Dr. Oren received the Star of Excellence Award in Life Sciences for Humanity from the America-Eurasia Center for creating the Immuno and RelaX variety of the supplement.

This wasn’t just another supplement.

The formulation of Folium pX is rooted in extensive research and development, aiming to provide a scientifically-backed super-antioxidant with key ingredients,

Dr. Oren was named Honorary Causa of Medicine and Physiology from the National Academy of Sciences of Georgia in 2024.

Now making appearances across the holistic circuit, Dr. Oren has planned continuous interviews on radio and video podcast as well as upcoming planned events including Autism Health in San Diego, April 11th– 12th and LAX Airport Health Freedom Expo, April 4th-6th, and others throughout the year, where he and his team will introduce Folium products and continue educating the masses about its potential benefits. @folium.px

10 TO BE OR NOT TO BE? BY HANNA PLAYAH - photos by Keri Freeman

Food, Wine and Reckoning: Takes Over the Count’s Den

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VOL 21. NO 3 - MAR 27 - APR 02, 2025 DTLAWEEKLY.COM

FEAST.

“The play shows us why the voices of the voiceless MUST be heard; and the epic poem Beowulf, when held up as an example of every incident of imperialism throughout time, suggests there is always a side we have not been allowed to know.”

The creative team includes producers Erin Schlabach & Laura Covelli; creative consultant Meredyth Hunt; props designer Rachel Adams; lighting designer and sound designer Niki Armato.

The Executive Producer is Jolie Kobrinsky.

he tale of Beowulf has been recirculated for over one thousand years, the brutal victory of man over monster resonating with people across millennia.

FEAST. contains overt references to sex and violence, and occasional profanity. The performance is intense, and the audience is physically close to the performer.

Due to the above, FEAST. is suggested for ages 16 and older.

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n FEAST., which first premiered in Iowa City at the Riverside Theatre in 2019, the story takes the spotlight away from the slaying hero, Beowulf, and focuses on the mother of the deformed monster Grendel, who until his horrifying death terrorized the town.

In this immersive and visceral theater experience, brought to downtown Los Angeles by Leonix Movement Theatre in association with Immersive Art Collective, Grendel’s mother, played by Erin Schlabach, throws a dinner party to seek justice for her son’s murder, only to confront her own guilt and rage.

Erin Schlabach at Count's Den - Social District

Staying connected to the power and hope found in community.

“One of the many interesting aspects about FEAST. for me has been the exploration of how we view the idea of heroism,” says Director Laura Covelli. “The archetype of a ‘hero’ throughout history has distinguishing qualities: they are Oscillating between witty banter noble, courageous, selfless, and desire and pointed exploration, this to help others. But this all depends heightened high fantasy crashes into the on who is telling the story. Beowulf is contemporary political landscape, asking described with these characteristics, the audience to collectively contemplate climate change, income inequality, and the but if we reimagine the story, as the playwright asks of us, through the rising forces of authoritarianism. lens of imperialism and the destruction of life and natural resources in the name of Grendel’s mother has observed humanity acquisition, the heroes and villains in this for centuries, and through her lens, epic story shift. the absurdities of human behavior are illuminated. Bewildered by humanity’s While Grendel, as illuminated by his choices, her perspective is both curious, mom, is shown to be both a diplomat comical, and unrelenting. Embodying a and a defender of nature, Beowulf and his middle-aged woman, she champions the band of merry soldiers suddenly become value of women and mothers, challenging the true monsters we’ve inaccurately the audience to look inward while also... lauded throughout time.

Performances of FEAST. take place from March 8 through April 6, 2025, on Saturdays at 7 p.m. and Sundays at 5 p.m. Tickets (general admission) are pick your price: $45, $55, or $65 and include a pre-performance ‘feast’ of charcuterie/ small bites and themed drinks. The Count’s Den is located at 1039 S. Olive Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015. www.leonixtheatre.org

10 GREAT PLACES: LATE NIGHT EATS BY KERI FREEMAN CONT...

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10 Great Places for Late Night Eats

CONTINUED...

Nothing to Fear at Farmer Boyz

Even under the dimmest streetlights, Farmer Boys upholds its promise of flavorful, made-to-order meals, with fresh ingredients sourced locally, so expect fresh eats when using the drive-thru in the dead of night.

They specialize in burgers, with every “burger box” filled with hot, juicy beef patties, cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, double everything, plus fries and a Pepsi.

Farmers Boyz is open 24/7, serving breakfast burritos, French toast platters, and Denver omelets, making it a one-stop shop for hungry patrons any time of the day.

PHOTO COURTESY BOSSA NOVA - SOCIAL DISTRICT

DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Just add fresh slices of avocado to up-taste any menu item at Farmer Boys, even the milkshakes.

Never too late for gourmet eats at Bossa Nova.

Now that Bossa Nova has expanded its reach to DTLA, patrons can enjoy everything from iconic Picanha, a succulent cut of beef grilled to perfection, to the comforting Chicken with Brazilian Cheese (Catupiry) in a creamy pink sauce.

Pizzas and fettuccine pasta and their famed Brazilian bowls that mix hearty portions of proteins with vegetables and grains.

Each dish uses fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere creates a welcoming environment where guests can enjoy their last meal before heading to bed.

DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Nothing tastes better than freshly grated Parmesan at 3:30am.

Filling the Hole at El Huerto

Expect classic tacos, burritos, tortas, quesadillas, and more at El Huerto.

EL HUERTO - USC

IHOP - FASHION DISTRICT

This USC-adjacent Pueblo-inspired kitchen never falls short when it comes to satisfying all those Trojan post-game hunger pangs.

DENNY'S CIVIC DISTRICT

DT Weekly Secret Sauce: Which one of these is NOT placed on every table at IHOP? A) Maple B) Blueberry C) Raspberry D) Butterscotch

Open 24/7, they serve a steady line Don’t Sleep on Denny’s patrons. No matter the hour, you can snag With two 24-hour locations in downtown a quick bite.

LA, one known for sustaining truckers and nearby law enforcement officers, the other DTWeekly Secret Sauce: El Huerto just known for catering to artists, partygoers, north of Adam’s on Figueroa may be the and tourists alike, located on Figueroa and only place to get a Chili Relleno Burrito at 8th, just blocks north of Crypto.com Arena 3am. and LA Live.

Syrup Variety: The Spice of Life at IHOP

Open 24 hours, downtown’s IHOP on 8th and Flower has become a dependable goto for buttermilk enrichment.

IHOP will literally make anything at any time. From homemade biscuits and gravy to Eggs Benedict. Add milkshakes, coffee with caramel and whipped cream, and a heart slice of pie for an even sweeter latenight experience.

Denny’s, where Grand Slam legends, eggs and bacon, toast and hash browns reunite with Bourbon burgers, fries, Cali Clubs, and crispy fried onion rings.

DTWeekly Secret Sauce: Denny’s isn’t trying to be anything other than a damn good diner, providing night owls a place to be themselves, no judgment, no egg shortage, and no dress code.

12 DTLA BOOK WORM BY COURTNEY LINDEMANN

DTLA BOOKWORM: Chalmers Brother’s Language and the Pursuit of Happiness

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halmers Brothers is a certified personal and executive coach, long-time seminar leader, speaker, trainer and author.

Chalmers Brothers’ ‘Language and the Pursuit of Happiness’ is a thought-provoking exploration of the profound impact language has on our lives. Through insightful anecdotes and practical examples, Brothers guides readers on a journey to understand the power of language and how it shapes our experiences and connections with others.

One of the most compelling insights in the book is the distinction between listening and hearing. True listening involves paying attention not just to the words being spoken, but also to the emotions and intentions behind them.

This distinction is crucial for meaningful conversations, as it encourages us to fully engage with others and understand their perspectives with greater depth. We listen to understand, not to respond.

Another impactful concept is how our beliefs and cognitive assumptions influence our understanding of what is being communicated.

Brothers highlights that our interpretations of conversations are filtered through our own beliefs, experiences, and assumptions, which can sometimes (which in my experience means “most of the time”) lead to misunderstandings. How often has this phenomenon happened to you? Where one person is telling a story, and you remember it happening in a completely different way.

Or perhaps you’re sitting in a meeting and what you hear is very much the opposite of what your colleague heard – and both interpretations were likely different from the intended message.

We so frequently (and often subconsciously) allow past experiences and personal biases to become default assumptions in our mind – which only work to stifle our curiosity for understanding.

The book challenges readers to consider how they communicate on a more intentional level. Brothers delves into the idea that language not only reflects the health of our relationships but also shapes them. He offers the example of two people in the early days of love. At first, they are talking all the time, excited simply by getting to know each other.

How does their connection grow? Through communication. On

the flip side, what happens when a relationship dies? Typically, it’s because conversation between them has died or degraded too. Consider the process of healing. We’re told to talk about it.

Right? What happens when we’ve talked too much, and we’re told to ‘just get over it?’ What is implied? That we need to stop talking about it. It all comes back to language. The way that Chalmers Brothers explores these concepts is fascinating, unique, and incredibly relatable.

By understanding and utilizing speech, readers can become more intentional in their communication and more effective in achieving desired outcomes. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their relationships, both professionally and personally, and to lead a more fulfilling and happy life through the power of language.

Courtney Lindemann is based in Los Angeles. She is a freelance editor and writing coach for Indie authors and is currently busy writing her debut novel.

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RONDA JACKSON CHANGE AGENT OF SUCCESS CONTINUED...

Photo courtesy Studio D Contract Finishes

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s a speaker, emcee, event and podcast host, she strives to be a voice of authenticity, inspiration, and transformative change. “Through all my platforms—be it podcasting or public speaking—my mission is to enlighten, empower, and elevate,” Ronda said.

Beyond her business endeavors, Ronda has a strong belief in the power of uplifting community. Through In the Mix, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, she leads initiatives for business capacity building and workforce development, always with the goal of creating lasting change.

Ronda also hosts monthly 3rd Saturday Events at Studio D providing a space for growth, networking, and education with themed events immersing guests in everything from sip and paint to all female boxing.

“The growth of our community’s businesses is key to the revitalization of our neighborhoods and the unlocking of potential for future generations.” Says Ronda, “The ripple effect of entrepreneurial success is immeasurable. By supporting each other, we can create a stronger economy, more jobs, and increased opportunities for everyone.”

Through every job Ronda creates, every event she hosts, Ronda Jackson is helping to move DTLA towards a community that stands united, resilient, and ready to succeed.

Studio D Contract Finishes is located at 334 S Main Street # 5018, Los Angeles, CA 90013. www.studiodcontract.com

10 GREAT PLACES: LATE NIGHT EATS BY KERI FREEMAN

Smacking Down at Taco Bell Cantina

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adies and gentlemen, welcome to Taco Bell Cantina on 7th and Flower! Where, when the clock strikes 12, the cravings keep on raging!

In this corner, Chalupa Supreme, a veteran of countless late-night brawls, loaded with sour cream, ready to put things in order with its tag team partner, the Twisted Frozen Margarita, a swirling vortex of lime and tequila encased in an impenetrable shell of hard, twisted plastic.

In the other corner, hailing from the southwestern flavors of Orange County, The Cheesy Gordita Crunch, and tag team partner, The Doritos Locos Taco, a fiery wildcard, who seems tasty at first but is known to snap, sending unwinding blows of Diablo sauce in all directions.

And there goes the bell!

It’s an all-out, no-holds-barred late-night match-up, not expected to end until 4 AM. The crowd goes wild! As Doritos Locos charges with a boom, bop, bam! laying down the law on Chalupa Supreme, holding it up on the ropes, making its own rules, while punching Chalupa below the belt.

Disqualified.

What’s this?

It looks like Twisted Frozen Margarita is about to unleash a frosty fury of crushed ice legalities on Gordita Crunch!

This may be the end of Gordita’s reputation, as Margarita’s icy tendrils grip Gordita, washing away its crunchy protection and taking a bite out of its now chilled soft underbelly. Gordita is cold.

And it’s over! The whole world waits for the judge’s final decision as this ferocious battle comes to an end with the winners and losers leaving Taco Bell Cantina in a hot mess.