Downtown Weekly LA

DOWNTOWN WEEKLY THE SPIRIT OF DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES

WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM VOL 19. NO. 6 SEP 7 - SEP 12, 2023

STAY HEALTHY

DTLA SOUTH PARK

FARMERS MARKET TRANQUIL URBAN LIVING WITH

LOFTWAY QUEST FOR CD14

TERESA HILLERY THE

SAUNA LAB

SHOWN HERE: L-R - SOUTH PARK BID'S EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR NOLAN A. MARSHALL III & PARTNERSHIP & PROGRAM MANAGER RICH SARIAN

THE FRUITS AND VEGGIES OF DOWNTOWN WEEKLY

VOL 19. NO. 6 SEP 7 - SEP 12, 2023 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM 3

photo: shawn smith location : South Park Farmers market south park

on the cover:

THE ART OF CHOKES

<<

PATHWAYS TO PROGRESS - TERESA HILLERY...4 PALMS TRADITION MEETS EXCELLENCE ...5 SOUTH PARK FARMERS' MARKET ...6 THE HEAT IS ON AT THE SAUNA LAB ...8 DTLA REAL ESTATE EMPIRE: LOFTWAY ...9 DTLA WEEKLY

editor and chief KERI FREEMAN

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Keri Freeman JACKSON ROBERTS REBECCA DENNING

photography GARY LEONARD shawn smith keri Freeman

VIDEO Production

@kerieatsdtla design and layout @kerieatsdtla

social media

@kerieatsdtla ART HUNTER

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 Anpublishes DTLA WEEKLY. EXPO/USC geles, Readers are recommended to HISTORIC CORE make appropriate inquiries beLITTLE TOKYO fore wagering any sum in relation to any ad, article or feature FASHION DISTRICT published herein. DTLA WEEKLY FINANCIAL DISTRICT will not be liable to any person loss or damage incurred or SKID ROW forsuffered as a result of his/her SOUTH PARK accepting, offering to accept or WAREHOUSE DISTRICT following any invitation or advice in any ad, article or THEGRAWN contained feature published herein.

ARTWALK NEWS

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 QUEST FOR CD14 - TERESA HILLERY BY RAY BALL

VOL 19. NO. 6 SEP 7 - SEP 12, 2023 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

quest for cd14: pathways to progress with teresa hillery

F

rom her humble beginnings in Vallejo, CA, to her educational and professional accomplishments, Teresa’s story is a powerful testament to her qualifications and unwavering commitment to public service.

Raised by an Air Force Veteran father and a devoted mother, Teresa was instilled with a strong sense of purpose and responsibility from a young age.

This upbringing shaped her determination to overcome obstacles and make a positive impact on those in need.

At just 16 years old, she entered the workforce, displaying an extraordinary drive to serve her community.

T

PHOTO COURTESY TERESA HILLERY

eresa Y. Hillery’s campaign for the Los Angeles City Council CD-14 is not just another political endeavor; it is a culmination of a life dedicated to service, advocacy, and community building.

Despite facing the tragic loss of her mother in 2016, Teresa’s resilience and unwavering spirit kept her focused on her goals.

ership Credential from Harvard School of Government, further refining her skills as an effective leader.

Even before law school, Teresa’s commitment to community development was evident. As Vice President of a corporate community development group, she collaborated with nonprofit organizations to implement impactful programs addressing critical issues such as homelessness, financial illiteracy, and affordable homeownership. Her efforts mobilized hundreds of employee volunteers, resulting in safer and healthier communities and positively impacting countless lives.

Throughout her legal education and career, Teresa continued to devote herself to community engagement and pro bono legal aid for underserved communities.

Working alongside residents in Skid Row, she designed intentional programming to address their diverse needs and advocated for affordable housing through organizations like Habitat for Humanity International.

Teresa’s legal career itself is a testament to her dedication and commitment to diversity, community development, and equity. From her early days at Burger King to her senior positions at Fidelity National Financial, she consistently displayed an unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

Actively involved in numerous associations and political organizations, Teresa’s impact reverberates throughout her community. As a key member of the Los Angeles County Bar Association, she promotes equitable practices and diversity within the legal profession. Her involvement in organizations such as the South Park Neighborhood Association’s Political Action Committee, the Los Angeles Congress of Neighborhoods, LA Forward, and Additionally, Teresa participated in the Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood transformative Summer Abroad Program Council demonstrate her desire to create in South Africa at Howard University School of Law and earned the Public Lead- real change at the local level.

Education became a catalyst for Teresa’s future accomplishments. She excelled academically, achieving honor roll status at Solano Community College and earning a BA in Communication Studies from CSU, Sacramento. Continuing her pursuit of knowledge, she attended the University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law, where she earned her law degree.

(CONTINUED ON PAGE 11)

DTLA APPETITE: THE PALM BY KERI FREEMAN

VOL 19. NO. 6 SEP 7 - SEP 12, 2023 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM55

The Palm restaurant

T

Where Tradition Meets Culinary Excellence

he Palm is one of those iconic downtown restaurants with the ability to captivate patrons with its rich history, sumptuous cuisine, and artistic legacy.

L

ocated at 1100 S Flower, from the outside, it can easily be mistaken as part of the newly built Metro Station, where the hum of rail cars reverberates throughout the day. However, once inside, The Palm translates into an iconic historic establishment that has welcomed generations of diners for almost a century.

It's an experience steeped in tradition. From the moment one steps through its doors, they are transported to a bygone era, where impeccable service and timeless charm reign supreme.

Immediately struck by the grandeur of its interiors, supported by the highest of pillars rising majestically to create a sense of both awe and intimacy. Dimmed or natural lighting transforms cozy wooden booth seats, with tables to match, adding an allure of old-world comfort.

One thing truly unique to The Palm is its peculiar characters that line the walls, a creative concept that began long ago at its original location in New York City.

The walls and pillars of The Palm are not mere boundaries; they are canvases that tell the story of its enduring legacy,

PHOTO COURTESY PALM RESTAURANTS

captivating caricatures of some of the restaurant's most beloved patrons, celebrities, dignitaries, and fans.

One cannot speak of The Palm without acknowledging its iconic tradition of caricatures. This artistic legacy, which began in the 1920s, has left an indelible mark on the restaurant's character. Talented cartoonists still create original art on the restaurant's walls. From Jolly Bill Steinke to Zack Bird, these artists have contributed to the unique tapestry of The Palm's history.

The recently concluded Summer Lobster Dinner for Two was a testament to The Palm's commitment to history and culinary excellence.

Ending Sept 4th, diners were treated to a $139 three-course lobster feast, beginning with an array of starters that included classics like The Palm Caesar salad, rich lobster bisque, Calamari Fritto Misto, and of course, one whole Jumbo Nova Scotia Lobster split to share surrounded by tantalizing sides for each and every table.

The culinary masterpiece was orchestrated under the watchful eye of Executive Chef Omari Williams.

Chef Williams, with his commitment to quality, fits in well with The Palm's longstanding tradition of excellence.

While the lobster extravaganza has concluded, the Palm's culinary journey continues...(CONTINUED ON PAGE 11)

6 STAY HEALTHY DTLA - SOUTH PARK FARMERS MARKET - BY KERI FREEMAN

VOL 19. NO. 6 SEP 7 - SEP 12, 2023 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

South Park Farmers' Market: A Fresh NEW Beginning for DTLA

M

PHOTOS BY SHAWN SMITH

uch like the legendary beanstalk that grew overnight, the South Park Farmers' Market has rapidly transformed into a flourishing hub for the community.

E

very Saturday, from 9 am to 2 pm, you can find this vibrant market on Grand Ave. between 11th Street and Olympic Blvd., offering the community of DTLA a delightful array of locally grown produce, free-range meat, artisanal foods, handmade crafts, and the soothing sounds of acoustic music.

In just a little over a month, South Park can now boast hosting one of DTLA's most successful farmers' markets to date. This flourishing market, set against the backdrop of high-rise lofts, owes its existence to the nurturing support of the South Park Business Improvement District (SPBID).

ly that on w o n k Did you adults eats 1 in 10 egetables? v enough is ing fact y m r a l a n This f the ma th o e n o t ou jus hy the S et in w s n o s ark rea mers' M geles r a F k r An Pa wn Los and o t n w o d citing is an ex dition to the l ad essentia munity. com

With over fourteen years of market operation under their belt, Farm Habit understands the importance of local, sustainable agriculture. As Mark Rich Sarian, SPBID’s Partnerships & Anderson, Founder of Farm Habit, puts Programs Manager, when interviewed by it, "Farmers' markets are the new town DTLA Weekly, shared that the idea for a squares. This is where neighbors still farmers' market in South Park was a seed bump into one another—in person." In already planted in the back of everyone's a world where digital interactions often minds. All that was left to do was feed overshadow face-to-face encounters, and water it with the right collaborative the South Park Farmers' Market aims partner to help reap the rewards. to rekindle the joy of community and connection.

Although it proved to be a more challenging task than expected, South The South Park neighborhood, known Park eventually found the perfect for landmarks like the Crypto.com Arena collaboration with Farm Habit. and the Los Angeles Convention Center, has undergone a transformation in recent Farm Habit, formerly known as years. It has evolved into a desirable Farmer Mark, brings a wealth of residential district, and the addition of experience to the South Park Farmers' the South Park Farmers' Market only Market. enhances its appeal.

SOUTH PARK FARMERS MARKET - BY KERI FREEMAN PHOTOS - SHAWN SMITH

According to Nolan A. Marshall III, Executive Director of the South Park BID, "South Park is home to cultural

institutions like the Belasco Theater and Grammy Museum, and championship teams like the Lakers and Kings. Only in South Park do we get to see LeBron play, host the BET Awards and the world’s largest Anime expo, and close a main street every weekend just so that we can pick up our artisanal cheese, grab some fresh fruit, buy a new candle, eat some Egyptian street food, or take home a muffuletta and jambalaya. This farmers’ market has the potential to be special just by being authentic to the identity of this diverse neighborhood.”

The benefits of supporting local farmers and markets like this one are numerous:

VOL 19. NO. 6 SEP 7 - SEP 12, 2023 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM COM 7

Visitors can look forward to locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh fish, delectable French pastries, Southern gumbo, tamales, local cheese, and free-range meat. Rain or shine, the market will be open every Saturday from 9 am to 2 pm. Those interested in participating should complete the online application thoroughly to secure a spot.

The South Park Farmers' Market is more than just a place to find food; it's a hub for building community and making environmentally conscious choices.

Following the belief shared by numerous urban planners, is South Park BID's new Executive Director, Nolan A. Marshall III, who joins the list of growing city planners who advocate for cities that prioritize people over cars. According to Marshall, the market is dedicated to creating a denser, more walkable environment within its confines.

Nutrient-Rich Produce: Vegetables grown in healthy soil, allowed to ripen naturally, are more nutritious and flavorful than those harvested prematurely and transported long distances.

Marshall brings with him a lifetime heading Business Environmental Impact: Small farms Development Districts from New prioritize crop diversity, reducing Orleans to Canada, and now, as the need for harmful pesticides and head of The South Park BID, wants fertilizers. Additionally, buying locally to reshape its mission beyond just translates to fewer carbon emissions from clean and safe programs, to provide transportation.

DTLA with an authentically vibrant Health and Wellness: Eating fresh, locally sourced food is essential for good health, and now everyone can have access to such options in South Park.

Community Empowerment: Every purchase at the farmers' market is a vote for a sustainable, communityfocused community in DTLA. Another vital figure in this growing endeavor is Aubrey Yarbrough, Director of Community Outreach at Farm Habit, who is just as excited about the South Park Farmers' Market. She emphasizes that the market will feature a diverse array of farmers, food vendors, and artisans.

neighborhood, where people want to live, invest in local businesses, and celebrate community.

Not only is South Park Farmers' Market a part of this exciting new chapter, it marks another fresh new beginning for DTLA.

8 STAY HEALTHY DTLA - THE SAUNA LAB - BY REBECCA DENNING

E

VOL 19. NO. 6 SEP 7 - SEP 12, 2023 WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

THE HEAT IS ON AT THE SAUNA LAB south park's infrared sauna studio is all about health... and it glows

ver wonder if using an infrared sauna during the hottest months is less or more effective?

L

et’s shed some light on the remarkable benefits that await at The Sauna Lab, even when summer is already bringing the heat.

While it may seem counterintuitive to seek additional warmth in an infrared sauna when simply stepping outside feels sweltering, the heat emitted by the sun differs from the full-spectrum heat provided by infrared saunas.

Excessive exposure to UV rays can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, liver spots, and even eye problems.

Fortunately, infrared saunas do not produce UV rays, eliminating the risk of sunburn and its detrimental effects.

By using light colors, including red light, infrared saunas create a safe and restorative sweat, leaving the user feeling rejuvenated after each 40 minute session.

Remember, one can never get sunburned from an infrared sauna since sunburn is caused By utilizing near, mid, and far-infrared

by UV rays, which waves at The Sauna Lab, the body is infrared saunas do heated from within, allowing these infrared not emit. However, it’s waves to deeply penetrate the skin, essential to stay hydrated and limit your muscles, joints, and tissues. This results sessions to no more than 40 minutes to in improved blood circulation, enhanced avoid dehydration. oxygen flow, and effective detoxification at a cellular level, eliminating waste An infrared sauna session can aid and harmful toxins like cholesterol and weight loss, calorie burning, improve heavy metals. Even if the temperature is heart and respiratory health, boost adjusted to a cooler setting, you can still immunity, relax muscles, enhance sleep, enjoy infrared sauna benefits. and help you acclimate to the rising temperatures. Moreover, the mental health On the other hand, ultraviolet (UV) benefits of infrared saunas include stress light from direct sunlight, a type of relief, increased production of dopamine, electromagnetic radiation responsible for oxytocin, and serotonin, and an overall summer tans and sunburns, presents improvement in mood and well-being. potential harm to the skin.

Many individuals who neglect their sauna routines during warmer months or lack

consistency often report feeling less well than they do during the cooler winter months.

Maintain a hot wellness routine by embracing infrared saunas this summer.

We all need mental resets, self-care, a good sweat, and overall well-being. Just remember to stay adequately hydrated, allow for a proper cool-down period, and consider adjusting the room temperature to ensure a safe and rewarding experience with infrared and red light therapy, even during the summer. @thesaunalab

DTLA REAL ESTATE EMPIRE BY ABEL WEISS

VOL 19. NO. 3 AUG 10 - AUG 16, 2023 - WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM 9

DTLA REAL ESTATE EMPIRE... LOFTWAY

I

Tranquil Urban Living

n the rising healthy lifestyle community of South Park, downtown Los Angeles sits a quaint real estate boutique known to the world as Loftway.

Founded by Cristiano Sampaio in 2003, the secret to Loftway’s longevity stems from principles of honesty, loyalty, understanding, and accountability in the world of urban real estate.

L

iving in a metropolis can be demanding on one's well-being. The constant noise, air pollution, light pollution, and the ever-present stress of city life are factors that weigh on the minds of urban dwellers. When making a significant investment in a place to call home, careful research and exceptional customer service become paramount.

The choice of your neighborhood and the building you reside in often depends on how long you plan to stay.

offers exceptional convenience, allowing me to easily access most condominium buildings in Downtown Los Angeles, with the Arts District being the only exception.", Sampaio told DT Weekly. “Our clients are welcome to visit us at any time, and the prominent large window display perfectly aligns with our marketing strategy, reinforcing our strong presence within the neighborhood.”

The Search for Serenity Anyone on the lookout for a peaceful, health-forward dwelling with breathtaking views can count on Loftway's downtown residences that come with an array of health amenities, including fitness centers, spas, pools, and Jacuzzis. These spaces are designed to encourage tenants to come together, fostering a sense of community and heavy influence on a healthy lifestyle.

Loftway's Legacy Forged in the preconceptual days of Downtown Los Angeles, Loftway has been a trusted partner for buyers, sellers, landlords, renters, and developers for two decades, and rightfully takes its place among the few visionary companies known for spearheading the charge for downtown's rejuvenation.

Take, for example, a remarkable property listing by Loftway, in the heart of South Park unit 601. at 1111 S. Grand. This property is a rare find indeed. With a generous 1,520 square feet of space, it boasts two bedrooms and two bathrooms, walk-in closets, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows that perfectly frame the Downtown skyline. Spacious panoramic corner units like this one at 1111 Grand come with balconies, that beckon all to look up and savor a healthy daily dose of tranquility in the city.

Cristiano Sampaio himself notes, "Operating from an office in South Park

The kitchen is a culinary refuge equipped with stainless steel appliances,

a large granite island, and even a washer and dryer in the unit for added convenience. This loft includes two sideby-side parking spaces, complete with an EV charger for an electric future (as seen on the horizon).

Security is top-notch with controlled access, a 24/7 doorman, and a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, spa, sundeck, landscaped terrace/ barbecue area, and an outdoor fireplace within the building.

Plus, there’s a cafe conveniently located on the ground floor. Plus, 1111 Grand is located just two blocks away from LA Live and two major grocery stores, making this property an all-encompassing urban retreat.

As Cristiano Sampaio aptly puts it, "Knowing you're coming home each day to a safe place of tranquility where you can burn a candle, prepare an organic meal, soak, and relax into a good night's rest – is priceless." When contemplating the cost, rest assured that living in downtown Los Angeles is an investment well worth making.

The safe way, the easy way…Loftway offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the vibrant yet serene urban lifestyle that Downtown Los Angeles has to offer. It's not just about buying a property; it's about investing in a tranquil retreat amidst the energy of the city. @loftwayla

10 DIPLOMATS AT PORSCHE DTLA Article & Photos BY KERI FREEMAN

VOL 19. NO. 3 AUG 10 - AUG 16, 2023 - WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM

QUEST FOR CD14 - TERESA HILLERY BY RAY BALL

TERESA HILLERY ...CONTINUED

VOL 19. NO. 3 AUG 10 - AUG 16, 2023 - WWW.DTLAWEEKLY.COM 11

THE PALM WITH JUSTIN VINEYARDS ...CONTINUED

T

Caramelized Walnuts, Semi-Sweet Chocolate Shavings, and Whipped Cream.

eresa Y. Hillery’s campaign for the Los Angeles City Council CD-14 in 2024 is not just about promises and rhetoric. Her life story is a testament to determination, service, and a tireless pursuit of justice.

Each dish is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to complement the exquisite JUSTIN Winery wines.

For those seeking a more intimate setting, The Palm offers private upstairs rooms. These secluded spaces provide the perfect backdrop for special occasions, business gatherings, or simply a quiet escape from the bustling city below.

They offer a glimpse into the rich history of the restaurant, providing a sense of exclusivity and a personal touch.

Her deep commitment on community development, legal advocacy, and public service is undeniable, leaving an indelible mark on communities across the nation.

Teresa’s campaign platform is built on the values of honesty, respect, and transparency, aiming to strengthen community bonds and foster growth. She is a strong supporter of the neighborhood council system, seeking to empower the community with more engagement, transparency, and accountability in decision-making.

Homelessness is a humanitarian crisis that Teresa Y. Hillery is determined to tackle head-on.

Believing housing is a human right, she will prioritize this issue, protecting tenants, preserving affordable housing, and working towards producing more housing for those in need. She will continue to advocate for more unarmed crisis response services throughout the district.

On Thursday, October 12, 2023, at 7 p.m., The Palm presents an exquisite evening A Timeless Experience in partnership with JUSTIN The Palm's enduring appeal lies not only Vineyards & Winery. in its exceptional cuisine but also in its unwavering commitment to creating This ticketed event, priced at $168 per memorable experiences. It is a place guest promises a memorable evening of fine dining and wine exploration beginning where generations have celebrated life's milestones, sealed business deals, and with a delightful combination of Shrimp enjoyed cherished moments with friends Skewers and Merguez Sausage, served and family. @Palmrestaurant with a flavorful Red Pepper Feta Sauce and paired perfectly with Justin Rosé from the Central Coast.

The first course features Filet Mignon topped with Green Peppercorn Aioli, Horseradish Gremolata, Capers, Parmesan Cheese, and garnished with Micro Basil paired with Landmark Vineyards, “Overlook”, Pinot Noir, Sonoma County.

Boosting businesses and creating jobs is another area Teresa focuses on. She champions policies that lift wages, support small businesses, and forge public-private partnerships for a thriving district.

For the second course, a delightful Seafood Stew featuring Black Cod, Shrimp, Clams, Calamari, and Garlic Bread. It's paired with Justin Sauvignon Blanc from the Central Coast.

Teresa advocates for policies that consider the needs of pedestrians, cyclists, children, the elderly, and those with mobility challenges, creating a more accessible district.

The third course is a culinary masterpiece, Porchetta, a Tuscan-Style Rolled Pork Roasted for Six Hours, served with Radicchio Salad, Herb-Roasted Potatoes, and Creamed Spinach. This course is expertly paired with Justin, “Justification”, Red Blend, Paso Robles & Justin, “Isosceles”, Red Blend, Paso Robles.

With her focus on strengthening democracy, tackling homelessness, boosting businesses, and creating a more mobile and accessible district, Teresa Y. Hillery is a candidate with the potential to transform Los Angeles City Council and CD-14.

For dessert…Vanilla Gelato Topped with Espresso Soda, Caffè Borghetti Liqueur,