Downtown Weekly LA

DOWNTOWN WEEKLY THE SPIRIT OF DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM VOL 19. NO. 8 OCT 5 - OCT 11, 2023

ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE

SNEAK PEEK: INTO THE

WORLD OF

VKIND

IMMERSIVE PLANT-BASED EXPERIENCE

DTLA COFFEE WEEK

WINNERS ANNOUNCED

THE ABSTRACT ART OF DOWNTOWN WEEKLY

on the cover:

THE WOMEN OF EL VELORIO :

VOL 19. NO. 9 OCT 5 - OCT 11TH, 2023 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM 3

PHOTO: MARS SANDOVAL MODEL: ROSELENA ROSAS STYLIST LORETTA VAMPZ MAKEUP: JUDITH BAUTISTA

THE ECCENTRIC ARTISTS

DTLA WEEKLY

editor and chief KERI FREEMAN CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Keri Freeman JACKSON ROBERTS REBECCA DENNING jamiie herrera abel weiss cathy chu

photography GARY LEONARD shawn smith eric epperson keri Freeman

VIDEO Production @kerieatsdtla design and layout @kerieatsdtla

social media art hunter

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VKIND IMMERSIVE PLANT-BASED EXPERIENCE...4 THE WOMEN OF EL VELORIO ...6 Gustavo's Great Tortilla Grand Finale...8 DTLA COFFEE WEEK WINNERS !!! ...9 GET2DTLA ...10 DTLA WEEKLY Special thanks to...

All rights reserved. DownMAYOR OF LOS ANGELES town Weekly is a news, event, & Council district 14 LIFESTYLE & Hospitality FREE resource. No portion THE CITY OF LA ofcommunity this publication may be reproARTS DISTRICT duced without express written CHINATOWN permission from the publisher.

WEEKLY, in support of local CIVIC DISTRICT DTLA residents, businesses, workers and BUNKER HILL visitors of Downtown Los AnEXPO/USC geles, publishes DTLA WEEKLY. HISTORIC CORE Readers are recommended to LITTLE TOKYO make appropriate inquiries before wagering any sum in relaFASHION DISTRICT tion to any ad, article or feature FINANCIAL DISTRICT published herein. DTLA WEEKLY will not be liable to any person SKID ROW for loss or damage incurred or SOUTH PARK suffered as a result of his/her WAREHOUSE DISTRICT accepting, offering to accept or any invitation or advice THEGRAWN following contained in any ad, article or ARTWALK NEWS feature published herein.

DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES WEEKLY

DTLA NEWS l EVENTS l LIFESTYLE I HOSPITALITY P.O. BOX 86601 - DTLA CA 90086 - WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM 888-732-DTLA (3852) @DTLAWEEKLY

4 DTLA ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE: VKIND EXPERIENCE BY JACKSON ROBERTS

VOL 19. NO. 9 OCT 5 - OCT 11TH, 2023 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

SNEAK PEEK: INTO THE WORLD OF VKIND IMMERSIVE PLANT-BASED EXPERIENCE

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midst the vast expanse of the DTLA skyline, a captivating transformation is unfolding at the illustrious Magic Box venue.

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idely known for hosting immersive shows that surround the senses, Magic Box @The REEF — Downtown’s comprehensive "one-stop-shop" for new and seasoned event concepts — will host the culinary immersive escape VKX - The Vkind Experience, themed around “What if plants took over the world?”

The Vkind Experience will open its doors to the public this November 1112th, promising unforgettable experiences for foodies and world-adventurers alike.

But, it’s not just any world...

The immersive world of delicacies promise to deliver guests a glimpse into a realm where plant-based cuisine reigns supreme.

The upcoming immersive VKX sensory event, with its vibrant colors and rich aromas, will reward each guest with mouthwatering flavors at every turn.

VKX is an inclusive gathering for all. From the seasoned vegan to the plant-based newcomer to those simply curious about the lifestyle, VKX provides opportunities to network with like-minded individuals, influencers, and plant-based celebrities.

The event will also debut several new product firsts. And guests at VKX will also be the first to view the short film, “The Next Girl.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF VKIND EXPERIENCE

Just outside the exhibit, there will be live DJs, lifestyle shopping, a 360 photo booth, and cocktails in the VIP room and plenty of opportunities for photos and socializing — all meant to encourage participants to envision the positive impact of a plant-based future.

“VKX isn't just about

indulging the senses,” says Vkind founder Star Simmons.

“It's also meant to engage visitors in a dialogue about the interconnectedness of the world. Through thoughtprovoking designs, captivating narratives, a compelling short film, and a diverse array of international plant-based cuisines, VKX sheds light on the environmental, health, and ethical advantages of choosing vegan alternatives.”

A portion of ticket sales and hotel bookings will be donated to LA-based nonprofits Saffyre Sanctuary (a horse rescue), UnchainedTV (plant-based media), and Vegans of LA (the first vegan food bank in LA). Additional proceeds will go to the nonprofit One Tree Planted, contributing to treeplanting efforts for forest and habitat restoration.

The VKX countdown has begun and the stage is being set for this DTLA plant-based experience happening Saturday, November 11 - Sunday, November 12, 2023, 12:00 PM at The Magic Box, 1933 S Broadway, LA, CA 90007. www.vkx2023.com

DTLA APPETITE: THE PALM BY KERI FREEMAN

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6 DTLA ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE: EL VELORIO - PHOTOS BY MARS SANDOVAL

VOL 19. NO. 9 OCT 5 - OCT 11TH, 2023 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

ANTONIO PELAYO - DIA DE LOS MUERTOS

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THE WOMEN OF EL VELORIO

ne of Los Angeles County’s largest Dia De Los Muertos (“Day of the Dead”) events, El Velorio, returns to Plaza De La Raza for the 13 th Annual El Velorio Dia De Los Muertos Cultural Celebration and Art Exhibit.

Founded in 2010, El Velorio celebrates the cultural spirit, heritage and tradition of Dia De Los Muertos, which honors the memories of loved ones who have passed away.

“It is with great pride to celebrate the 13 th anniversary of El Velorio and it continues to be an honor and privilege to return to Plaza De La Raza, the special place where I’ve produced El Velorio since 2013,” said Antonio Pelayo, artist, founder and producer of El Velorio.

The 21 and over experience kicks off with the return of the popular El Velorio exhibit, showcasing the talents of 150 local artists with original one-of-a-kind Dia De Los Muertos themed pieces created specifically for the event.

Curated by Antonio Pelayo and fellow artist Isaac Pelayo, this year’s exhibition will pay tribute to fallen female icons.

LORETA VAMPZ AS FRIDA KAHLO - MAKE UP BY JUDITH "KAHLOVERA" BAUTISTA - PHOTO BY MARS SANDOVAL

“It’s exciting to see El Velorio continue to grow bigger and better every year, along with our Dia De Los Muertos themed art exhibit, which continues to receive more submissions every year and has become a highlight of the event,” said Antonio Pelayo.

A portion of proceeds from art and ticket sales will benefit the Pelayo Foundation, a non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire artists, enrich communities and foster culture dialogue through the transformative power of art.

DTLA ARTISTS IN RESIDENCE: EL VELORIO - PHOTOS BY MARS SANDOVAL

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VOL 19. NO. 9 OCT 5 - OCT 11TH, 2023 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

"We hold that art has the power to enhance society and encourage meaningful conversations." - Antonio Pelayo Foundation

he celebration continues with two stages of live entertainment hosted by ABC7 Eyewitness Reporters Anabel Munoz and Sid Garcia, presenting headlining bands LA DIABLA and DECALIFORNIA, DJ Crew Meneaito, DJ OSKR and dance performances by Folklor Pasion Mexicana and Aztec Dancers.

Additional showcases round out the night’s festivities, including a Dia De Los Muertos fashion show produced by actress Loretta “Vampz” Valdez and a bike show presented by Viclasos Motorcycle Club, as well as live art, altars, face painting and various arts and crafts vendors throughout the venue.

This year’s El Velorio is sponsored by Black Widow Investigations, Vezbi, Northgate Market, HMUA Studios and Titos Vodka.

Plaza de la Raza Cultural Center Founded in 1970 by prominent labor, and business and civic leaders, Plaza de la Raza is the only multidisciplinary community arts venue dedicated to serving the Eastside neighborhoods of Los Angeles. It offers affordable afterschool, intergenerational arts education programs to nearly 4,100 children, teens and adults each year.

LORETTA VAMPZ AND JUDITH BAUTISTA HAVE BEEN CONSISTANTLY CREATING FRESH AESTHETICS AND FASHION TRENDS FOR DIA DE LOS MUERTOS AND EL VELORIO.

Throughout the year, Plaza presents more than 450+ classes that are taught by local artists and performers in theater, dance, music and the visual arts. The center attracts more than 25,000 visitors each year with its free cultural programs and manages almost 300 community volunteers. www.plazadelaraza.org El Velorio creator, Antonio Pelayo combines his creative and unique talents as an artist and taste-maker to create these types of cultural experiences specializing in art exhibits, live entertainment, concerts, community outreach, sponsorship and fund raising.

Head of Antonio Pelayo Productions, a full-service event production company headquartered in Los Angeles, Pelayo is redefining the meaning of FUN in LA. He along with fellow artist, Isaac Pelayo have recently co-founded The Antonio Pelayo Foundation passionately championing for the development and broadening of artistic talents.

The 13th Annual El Velorio Dia De Los Muertos Cultural Celebration takes place on Saturday, October 14, from 7pm to 1am, at Plaza De La Raza, located at 3540 N. Mission Rd., LA, CA 90031. @elvelorio

8 STAY HEALTHY DTLA - BY JACKSON ROBERTS

VOL 19. NO. 9 OCT 5 - OCT 11TH, 2023 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

Gustavo's Great Tortilla Grand Finale this sunday at Smorgasburg LA DTLA IS ON THE HUNT for THE BEST tortilla in Southern California.

Thank goodness KCRW is presenting the Grand Finale of Gustavo's Great Tortilla Tournament this Sunday at Smorgasburg at ROWDTLA. A day friendly competition, aGustavo Arellano and KCRW's Good Food host Evan Kleiman will be our guides wrapping up this epic event, where the top tortilla talents in SoCal will face off in a thrilling showdown in front of thousands.

The teamup of KCRW and L.A. Times columnist and “Taco USA” author Gustavo Arellano marks the sixth year in a row on his quest for tortilla greatness.

Gustavo has created a delicious list of 96 tortillas found from Sylmar to Ojai to Coachella to Chula Vista, and it all boils down to 32 corn + 32 flour, in four brackets of 16.

He along with three other judges will have the difficult task of choosing which tortillas to advance to the next round. ...And now it all comes to a head on Sunday, October 8 at Smorgasburg LA where we'll get to the bottom of the question that plagues us all:

Which is the best corn, or flour?

Let's give a round of applause to our tortilla superstars who will battle it out LIVE on Sunday!

In the Flour Corner: Heritage Brewery & Barbecue HomeState In the Corn Corner: Taco María Pan Victoria

Entertainment Galore: Groove to DJ sets by KCRW's Raul Campos and Wyldeflower.

Unleash your artistic side with tortilla painting, PHOTOS COURTESY OF SMORGASBURG guided by the tortilla artist extraordinaire, Joe Bravo.

Get serenaded by the enchanting Mariachi Tierra Azteka.

Sip on delightful Micheladas at the I Love Micheladas beer garden.

Wondering about tortilla trivia? Visit the ¡Ask A Tortilla Expert! booth and ask them ANYTHING tortilla-related.

Tortilla Tournament Prizes: Witness live tournament rounds between the four finalists to determine who takes home the coveted prizes: The Golden Tortilla and the Chiquihuite Cup. Each of the Fuerte Four will receive a 4-pound tub of lard, courtesy of Coast Packing.

The ultimate winner will walk away with a $500 store gift card courtesy of Northgate Market.

With over 90 finely curated food, beverage, and shopping vendors Smorgasburg DTLA's foodie oasis.

It all unfolds at Smorgasburg LA, the city's largest weekly open-air food market.

Smorgasburg is FREE and so is the party...

Smorgasburg LA 777 Alameda Ave Tournament Showdown: 12 PM–3 PM

DTLA - THE FUTURE OF LAW ENFORCEMENT BY JAMIE HERRERA

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10 THE NEW DTLA BY JAMIE HERRERA

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his year's 2nd Annual DTLA Coffee Week presented by DTLA Weekly aimed to shine a spotlight on the local coffee scene.

Every sip brought us closer to discovering the new cafe gems of the neighborhood.

Coffee lovers didn't miss the chance to sip, savor and vote for their favorite cafes in 10 Throughout the week, cafes in categories to establish their DTLA went above and beyond choice cafes as the one with to offer special deals in what the most prestigous title ever can only be described as a city- known to man. wide caffeine-fueled adventure.

"GREATEST CAFE IN DTLA!"

VOL 19. NO. 9 OCT 5 - OCT 11TH, 2023 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

In the end it came down to just 2 cafes... with DTLA Weekly bestowed with the task of revealing the winners and the results might surprise DTLA!

To find out who placed first in each of the 10 categories, and help cast the vote that will break the tie and establish the winners, be sure to scan the bar code above.

There were a few ties among the competing cafes, which means there will have to be a runoff to determine the ultimate champion.

DTLA COFFEE WEEK presented by Downtown Weekly Los Angeles - The Spirit of DTLA. **Next DTLA Coffee Week** Aug 23-30, 2024

DTLA REAL ESTATE EMPIRE BY KERI FREEMAN

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