Los Angeles Downtown News 10-25-21

October 25, 2021 I VOL. 50 I #43

‘Whole New Voice’ Danny Elfman releases album, gears up for ‘Nightmare Before Christmas’ live production

Poppy

+ Rose

EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT PG. 11

Restaurant waxes eloquently on fried chicken

EYE ON EDUCATION PG. 12-15

+ MacArthur Park maintenance forces homeless out

DESIGN YOUR OWN POSTER

DAY OF THE DEAD

PRINT MAKING WORKSHOP Friday, October 29 · 3PM to 6PM · TASTE Courtyard

THE VOICE OF DOWNTOWN LA SINCE 1972

2 DOWNTOWN NEWS

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

OCTOBER 25, 2021

DT

OCTOBER 25, 2021

DOWNTOWN NEWS 3

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

Covered NEWS California will help

Anti-gun violence advocate LaWanda Hawkins, whose son and sister were killed by guns, shows her T-shirt adorned with the faces of 40 children who died, 39 of them by gun violence.

Former congresswoman Gabby Giffords, who was shot in the head in January 2011, embraces a fellow gun violence victim at the opening of the Los Angeles Gun Violence Memorial.

Photo by David Rodish/Cronkite News

Photo by David Rodish/Cronkite News

Gabby Giffords speaks about gun violence in LA

By David Rodish Cronkite News ormer Arizona congresswoman Gabby Giffords, who was gravely wounded in a 2011 shooting, dedicated the Los Angeles Gun Violence Memorial with a call to action.

“We must never stop fighting,” Giffords said Oct. 19. “Fight, fight, fight. Be bold; be courageous. Confronted by paralysis and aphasia, I responded with determination.

I put one foot in front of the other. I found one word, and then I found another. But I have not lost my hope. America needs us to speak out, even when you have to fight to find the words.”

Giffords was meeting constituents near Tucson in January 2011 when a gunman opened fire, killing six people and wounding 13, including Giffords, who was struck in the forehead. Since then, she has dedicated her life to advocating for laws to curb gun violence.

The memorial in Expedition Park near the Coliseum includes 3,400 white vases

F

with white flowers to commemorate the more than 3,400 Californians who died in 2020 of gun-related causes. It was open through Oct. 22.

“We started with a memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.,” said Paul Carrillo, community violence initiative director for Giffords Law Center in California.

“Then we brought the installation to Philadelphia, New York City and now Los Angeles. In the coming months, we will be going to other states to remember the lives of those we have lost to the gun violence epidemic.”

The memorial in Washington included more than 40,000 vases. In 2020, 43,617 gun deaths occurred nationwide, according to the Gun Violence Archive. The number on the archive site continually grows as it assesses more data.

“This is a monument to our failure,” California Assemblyman Jesse Gabriel said.

“This a monument to our failure as a society, to the failure of Congress to pass meaningful, commonsense gun safety leg-

islation. We have done a lot of work in the with the faces of 40 children on it. Only one state of California, but we need more ac- child on the shirt did not die from gun viotion from Washington, D.C. lence.

“Every time we have a mass shooting, “If there wasn’t a gun, would they have we get thoughts and prayers. We have been alive today? You’re damn right they members of Congress and political fig- would’ve been,” Hawkins said. “But because ures and leaders who tweet out ‘thoughts a gun in our community is so easy (to) acand prayers.’ Thoughts and prayers are not cess, these people lost their lives. This is unenough. They’re not going to get the job acceptable.” done; they’re not going to save lives.”

Hawkins and state Assemblyman Reggie Gabriel said the positive red flag laws in Jones-Sawyer mentioned the disproporCalifornia show the state as a model for the tionate effect that gun violence has had on federal government to follow in creating minority communities. gun safety laws. Gabriel blames “extrem“This year alone in LA County, 181 of ists” in the National Rifle Association who (500 gun deaths) were Black; 268 were EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Christina lobby against “commonsense gun Fuoco-Karasinski safety Latinos,” Hawkins said. “That means 449 STAFF WRITERS: Andrew Checchia, Andres De Ocampo, Julia Shapero measures that are supported by the majorof those CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Sara Edwards, Kamala Kirk 500 were minorities. Where is the ity of peopleART in DIRECTORS: this country, including outcry?”

Arman Olivares, gun Stephanie Torres STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER: Luis Chavez owners.”

Carrillo said these deaths are preventPHOTOGRAPHERS: Myriam Santos “It is timeCONTRIBUTING for us to prioritize the safety able.

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Catherine Holloway, Michael Lamb and livelihood of our children “We know what can be done,” he said.

FOUNDER EMERITUS: Sueabove Laris the profits of the gun industry,” he said.

“Now the question is: Do our political leadLaWanda Hawkins of Los Angeles, an ers have the will to do it?” anti-gun violence advocate who has lost For more stories from Cronkite News, visit family members to firearms, wore a shirt cronkitenews.azpbs.org.

EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Christina Fuoco-Karasinski

Los Angeles Downtown News PO Box 1349 South Pasadena, CA 91031 213-481-1448

STAFF WRITERS: Andres de Ocampo, Jordan Houston

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Mike Madriaga, Frier McCollister, David Rodish, Ellen Snortland

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Silvia Grav, Brian Ziff ART DIRECTORS: Arman Olivares, Stephanie Torres

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Catherine Holloway (213) 308-2261 Michael Lamb (213) 453-3548

FOUNDER EMERITUS: Sue Laris

S I N C E 19 7 2 facebook: L.A. Downtown News

twitter: DowntownNews

instagram: @ladowntownnews

1620 W. FOUNTAINHEAD PARKWAY, SUITE 219 TEMPE, ARIZONA 85282 PRESIDENT: Steve T. Strickbine VICE PRESIDENT: Michael Hiatt

©2021 Times Media Group. Los Angeles Downtown News is a trademark of Times Media Group. All rights reserved. The Los Angeles Downtown News is the must-read newspaper for Downtown Los Angeles and is distributed bi-weekly throughout the offices and residences of Downtown Los Angeles. Los Angeles Downtown News has been adjudicated as a newspaper of general circulation in Court Judgement No. C362899. One copy per person.

4 DOWNTOWN NEWS

DT

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Covered NEWS California will help

MacArthur Park maintenance forces homeless out

By Andres de Ocampo LA Downtown News Staff Writer he city of LA closed the southern, lakeside portion of MacArthur Park on Oct. 15 for repairs and maintenance, congruent with LA city Councilmember Gil Cedillo’s efforts. However, the park’s closure forced many homeless people living in the park to move.

The recreational north side of the park will remain open to the public. Cedillo said the fence around the park will be removed following the park’s renovations.

Notices of the closure, for housed and unhoused residents in the MacArthur Park area, were taped to trees in the park late September, and a week after, a fence tracing the perimeter of the southern, lakeside area of the park erected with entry points for the public.

The Recreation and Parks Department will make infrastructural upgrades.

Tescia Uribe, chief program officer with People Assisting the Homeless, echoed many points. PATH and Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority (LAHSA) provided the remaining homeless MacArthur Park residents with housing services up until 10:30 p.m., when the

T

park closed.

PATH is a statewide nonprofit that focuses on homeless outreach, services and housing programs, while LAHSA is an LA County and citywide homeless service agency, dealing in similar services to PATH for homeless Angelenos.

Uribe said homeless outreach in MacArthur Park has been going on “forever” for PATH and LAHSA, and an intensive wave of homeless outreach began in January for the groups that coincided with the city closing the park. According to Cedillo’s website, LAHSA and PATH have moved 268 people “indoors” since the collaborative, intensive outreach in MacArthur Park began.

“We’ve been out here every day and through the nights and mornings,” Uribe said. “We’ve been letting folks know (about the park closing), especially folks who stay here overnight. It’s scary for folks that have been out here for a long time.”

LAPD was not present the afternoon leading into the night the park closed, and officers came only to officially close the park after 10:30 p.m., which Uribe called attention to.

“We don’t have police out here today,

because we didn’t want that. We didn’t want people to feel that kind of pressure,” she said.

In March, a city sweep and closure of Echo Park Lake by Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell, District 13, removed a community of homeless individuals, along with a pantry, shower and garden, from the park. O’Farrell’s sweep was rushed and swift.

Notices of Echo Park’s closure were posted in the park only a day before, and a fence lining the perimeter of the park was installed not long after. The sudden notice brought the homeless community of Echo Park and advocates of the community together for a vigil turned protest after clashes with LAPD. Unlawful assembly was declared later in the night and 182 arrests were made, according to a statement from LAPD. The experience of the city’s sweep of Echo Park was on the minds of many people at MacArthur Park, like homeless individuals and their advocates. Uribe said she “regularly” visited MacArthur Park after Cedillo’s September motion to ensure there was no forceful action or pressure from LAPD to remove homeless people.

Gustavo Otzoy, previously a resident of the homeless Echo Park Lake community that was removed, was there to watch MacArthur Park close. He said he went to the park for the past two weeks to observe LAHSA and LAPD interactions with homeless people.

“I didn’t want the same thing that happened in Echo Park to happen again,” he said.

Since being pushed out of Echo Park, Otzoy tried the Project Roomkey housing program but said that “it is like being in jail. There is a curfew and people can come into your room whenever they want.”

Otzoy now lives in a hotel, which, he said, is much better. He became a member of Street Watch LA, a coalition of organizers focused on homeless advocacy and tenants’ rights, to become an advocate for people who were once in his position.

Otzoy said he believes the MacArthur Park closure is “the same thing (the city) did in Echo Park,” and he said that he thinks the fences around MacArthur Park are here to stay.

“I have to say, to all of these people who are in power, the city council, the

OCTOBER 25, 2021

mayor, just give the money to the people that need housing and don’t try to just cover things up,” Otzoy said.

“People will receive housing for three months and then they get rid of them.

That’s not a solution. The solution is for the city council to not misuse money for homeless people. The money should be given to them to get permanent housing.”

Uribe said PATH workers offered homeless MacArthur Park residents interim shelter at the Mayfair Hotel, a Project Roomkey site, and that PATH would also be the provider helping the same individuals move into permanent housing.

“We’re trying to help create continuity, but it’s hard,” she said about PATH and LAHSA’s outreach. “People who are used to being outside and used to MacArthur Park being their community, it’s all a big shift for them and it’s not easy.”

John McGowan, who has been homeless for 27 years, sat on a cement base of a lamppost in the park’s lakeside parking lot on Alvarado Street just hours before the park closed, waiting to receive Project Roomkey interim housing from PATH. McGowan said he moves to and from Downtown LA and a bench in the southern, lakeside area of MacArthur Park serves as a place of rest for him.

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

“I’m feeling sad because they’re closing the park down,” McGowan said. “Now I really don’t have anywhere to go. It hurts because this is like a home to me.

I’ve been homeless for 26 or 27 years, and I’m getting tired. You can only take so much.”

McGowan expressed his desperate need for housing, especially with having no family around to help him, and affirmed that, “Once I get this housing, I’ll be alright,” he said.

“I’ll be like a baby at a candy store because, like I said, I really need this help. … I need somewhere where I can stay warm, where I can take a shower.”

Terrance Howard, who has expe rienced homelessness, stood timid around PATH workers and only spoke to outreach workers. Ultimately, Howard felt left out of housing services provided to homeless MacArthur Park residents.

Howard, wrapped in a tattered blanket from shoulder to shoulder, said that he became a frequent resident of the MacArthur Park area starting during the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

He said that he would often stay in the north side of MacArthur Park and close, surrounding areas but said he struggled to be granted housing. Howard confirmed he had spoken to LAHSA and PATH workers about receiving tempo-

rary housing.

After staying with family for some days to rest, Howard returned to the park and noticed that “there’s nobody around and everyone’s off the street,” he said. “After I had a couple of days of rest, (the outreach workers) don’t think I live here anymore. Now I’m left out of the referral system and I have no resources.

“I’m pretty much lost. When I saw (the outreach groups and workers) I had a little peace of mind. I have no fundamental interest about anything aside from finding a place to sleep, finding someplace safe,” Howard said.

Howard is concerned about finding shelter for the night.

“I’m going to have to stay in someone else’s camp or I have to find somewhere to rest and try it again in the morning,” he said.

“I don’t know that these (homeless outreach service providers) are going to come follow up and help me, or someone else in my situation, because they can’t find us.”

Most homeless service groups, no matter the title or funding, identify areas where there are large homeless populations and provide their outreach services accordingly. Howard was worried about services being lost to him.

“I feel like they don’t try to (find us),” he said about moving to a different lo-

DOWNTOWN NEWS 5

cation to sleep. “Maybe they try to come and drop off food and think that’s all we need and think that we have a place to sleep, but we don’t.”

Howard was frustrated, but he was trying to maintain a level head, staying empathetic so he can remain calm.

“These (outreach workers) are doing their job, but if they say they’re trying to get people off the streets, then I don’t know why there’s requirements for that,” he said.

“I don’t know if they think people are trying to take advantage, but if people say they’re homeless on the streets, it’s pretty much the truth.”

Kevin Kemp was one of the last remaining homeless MacArthur Park residents. By nightfall, he sat in a chair speaking with a PATH outreach worker to try and find interim housing for the night.

Kemp never thought his living situation was a tragedy, he said.

“I’ve been here for years,” Kemp said about his chosen residency in the Westlake/MacArthur Park neighborhood.

Though Kemp preferred to sleep in the surrounding areas of the park due to their being “too many rats” at night, he said, “I think seeing the park gated off is taking something from the community.

It brings sadness, because I don’t have access to the park like I used to.”

When emergencies can’t wait.

Let’s face it: No one wants to go to the ER. But if you need emergency medical care, it’s reassuring to know that Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center is taking every precaution to keep you safe. And with our online arrival system, our emergency care team will be alerted that you’re on your way. So you can spend less time in our ER—and more time at home.

See available arrival times at DignityHealth.org/ER.

DT

6 DOWNTOWN NEWS

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Covered NEWS California will help

Female firefighters call for LAFD chief’s resignation

By Andres de Ocampo LA Downtown News Staff Writer coalition of female firefighters and advocates released a demand letter to Mayor Eric Garcetti, denouncing Los Angeles Fire Department’s culture of “rampant sexism, racism and abuse in the ranks that women and minorities routinely face.”

They called for the removal of LAFD’s lead authority, Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas, who could not be reached for comment.

The Equity on Fire (EOF) coalition — consisting of Los Angeles Women in the Fire Service (LAWFS), a women’s LAFD employee association; Southern Christian Leadership Conference of Southern California; Women’s March Action and the California National Organization of Women — gathered on a virtual meeting on Oct. 18 to publicly address the unsafe work environment women and minority firefighters experience within the department, according to a statement.

EOF is asking for the fire chief to be

A

removed and replaced along with a demonstration of accountability from Terrazas, who “has ignored, downplayed, denied or actively obstructed any investigation into the cultural problems within LAFD,” the demand letter reads.

EOF speakers in the virtual press conference said the perpetual “bullying culture” among the LAFD ranks under Terrazas’ leadership “deep-seated racism and sexism” goes unaddressed.

Kristine Larson, president of Los Angeles Women in the Fire Service and a 31year LAFD veteran and officer, said numbers of equal employment opportunity (EEO) violations are growing within the department and that Terrazas is aware of the upward trend of LAFD’s discrimination and harassment.

Larson explained that Terrazas receives regular briefings, notifying him of complaints within the department, from LAFD’s professional standards division (PSD), which handles complaint and disciplinary action “in compliance with federal, state and local news and de-

partmental policy,” according to the Professional Standards Division complaint form.

“He knows about these incidents.”

She said he discounts that EEO violations have increased from seven in 2017 to 63 in 2019. “(Terrazas) doesn’t seem to think that’s an issue, but it is,” she said.

“If you continue to have more and more complaints from year to year, there has to be something you can do, whether that’s training, messaging, anything that will get people to understand that we need to treat each other with compassion and humility.”

In a recent incident with Terrazas, Larson described how Los Angeles Women in the Fire Service surveyed LAFD’s female firefighters and found “77% of them said that they have been harassed at work. I brought that up to him and he (didn’t seem to care),” she said.

Lauren Andrade, a fire captain in Orange County and an 18-year veteran firefighter, spoke in solidarity with female

firefighters at the virtual EOF meeting.

Andrade documented stories told to her by fellow female firefighters in the LAFD and said “they have had raw meat placed in their backpacks or bedding left to rot” and “they have been referred to as trash with ‘junk,’ spray painted on their jackets and helmets.”

More LAFD abuse allegations are documented in the letter to Garcetti that describes the abuse as “overt harassment, such as encountering feces spread around the female restroom, facing male co-workers as they expose themselves to us while pronouncing ‘this is what a fireman looks like,’ finding racist items left around the fire station, enduring a steady stream of racist and sexist comments, and even being physically attacked.”

Andrade closed her talk during the virtual meeting with a narrative shared from an anonymous woman in the LAFD, who alleges that a fellow 15-year veteran firefighter raped her.

“I have chosen to remain anonymous

OCTOBER 25, 2021

because I know the pain that will come with the exposure,” Andrade said, reading the anonymous statement.

“I’ve been told there is nothing more that I can do. It’s his word against mine; a man and 15-year veteran versus me, a rookie and female. … This event has made this past year the worst year of my life,” Andrade continued reading.

“Someone who I work with, who I have ran into burning buildings with, who is supposed to have my back, took everything from me. We weren’t friends. He barely acknowledged me when I was at work and only talked to me when it was necessary. I was raped in a fire station by a fellow fighter.”

Larson corroborated the anonymous statement read by Andrade and a few details provided by EOF explaining that the 2016 incident left the victim traumatized, leading her to not report the incident. The incident was reported by another fellow LAFD firefighter to the PSD; however, an investigation into the case was dropped due to the victim deciding not to go on the record. According to EOF, the victim remained anonymous out of fear of retaliation.

This is not an isolated incident, according to Larson. “We (the LAFD) have a history of doing bad things to people who report abuses in this organization,” she said. The firefighters have been “blackballed” or their gear and food tam-

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

pered with in retaliation of other incidents.

“The deep-seated tradition of not ‘ratting’ people out — if that’s what you want to call it — keeps people in fear of not saying anything, and that’s the culture we have to change,” Larson said.

“If you’re being discriminated against, you should be able to make a complaint, have it validated and have that individual punished. That’s not what’s happening, because people are too afraid to say anything, and they suffer in silence for it.”

According to published repor ts, Garcetti received a letter from Los Angeles Fire Commissioner Rebecca Ninburg that confirmed EOF’s description of LAFD’s unkempt, abusive culture.

“I have seen firsthand how Chief Terrazas has refused to take action against the ever-growing culture of racism, sexism, retaliation and abuse in the Department,” Ninburg wrote.

“Urgency is required at this moment to create a safe environment for all LAFD firefighters — without which this department has been allowed to enable dangerous behavior time and again.”

Ninburg’s letter comes a day after Garcetti released a statement, regarding the allegations directed at the fire chief, just hours after the virtual EOF meeting.

Garcetti supported Terrazas, saying he has “full confidence” in him.

“We need to make the change now,”

Parking at LAX?

LAX Economy Parking is Now Open.

Introducing the new state-of-the-art economy parking at LAX! It’s parking that is easy to use, affordable and makes getting to the terminals a breeze. It really is the definition of “smart parking.” So, when you’re ready to fly, pre-book and park the easy way at LAX.

Pre-Book Parking & Save | 4,000+ Spaces Free Shuttle to Terminals | E/ V Charging Stalls Short and Long-Term Options parking.flyLAX.com

DOWNTOWN NEWS 7

Kristine Larson and Jennifer Wilcox, longtime LAFD veterans, are part of a coalition of female firefighters in LA and advocates who are calling for LAFD Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas’ removal and replacement.

Photo courtesy of Kristine Larson

Larson said. “If we can’t make the change now, it’s never going to happen. We can’t have the next generation of firefighters coming on that are going to face this

level of bullying, discrimination and harassment. … How many women have to be abused by different men before we finally say, ‘Enough is enough?’”

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

8 DOWNTOWN NEWS

DT

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Covered LETTERSCalifornia will help Be voices for the voiceless on the issue of homelessness

PRESENTS

D T L A F E S T I VA L F O R K I D S

October 31st I 5 - 8 pm Grand Hope Park at FIDM

$8 pre-sale I $10 at the door Children under two FREE For tickets and more info, go to DOWNTOWNLA.COM/HALLOWEEN PREMIER SPONSORS

TITLE SPONSOR

COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Editor: Roughly 11.18% of the people living in Downtown Los Angeles are experiencing homelessness, according to the Neighborhood Data for Social Change.

When compared to the city of Los Angeles, where the rate is about 0.82%, the severity of the issue of homelessness within the Downtown Los Angeles community becomes clear. The devastating impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the mental health and financial stability for vulnerable people makes it reasonable to assume that this issue will continue to get worse.

Although a historic legislation effort has been signed to combat homelessness, it will take time before the plans take effect and people get access to these resources. Every day that passes risks greater harm for those who remain on the streets.

The cumulative impact of homelessness stretches far beyond the problems associated with simply lacking shelter, according to the CDC. People experiencing homelessness are at greater risk of alcohol and drug abuse, mental illness, HIV infection and a host of other conditions.

I’ve seen with my own eyes how homelessness leads to further detrimental harm on one’s overall well-being while working in a skilled nursing facility for people with severe mental illness. One of my clients became homeless after her symptoms from schizophrenia made it impossible to maintain employment.

Once she began living on the street, things quickly took a turn for the worse.

A few members of her homeless encampment began forcibly injecting her with heroin, eventually fostering an addiction to maintain control over her and use her for prostitution.

Now she struggles from addiction and post-traumatic stress disorder in addition to schizophrenia and homelessness.

Had she never experienced homelessness her road to recovery would be much less challenging, because she would not need to simultaneously recover from addiction and PTSD as well. This story is one of many, and it demonstrates how quickly one’s life can spiral downward once they lose access to safe shelter.

Gov. Gavin Newsom recently signed the largest legislative effort in California’s history to address the state’s homeless crisis and strengthen mental health services. This is a huge step in the right direction, but one bill was left out that would offer immediate relief: AB-1372

Right to Temporary Shelter. Right to Temporary Shelter is a bill that proposes offering temporary shelter, mental health treatment, job training and resources for finding work to every person experiencing homelessness.

People cannot wait months, or potentially years, for Newsom’s legislative efforts to roll out relief. They need immediate aid. Providing the services from Right to Temporary Shelter will increase people’s quality of life now and make recovery less complicated by preventing any further regression from the accumulative effects of homelessness.

Although Right to Temporary Shelter does a lot of things right, it is not perfect.

The major issue it has is that to qualify, a person needs to seek temporary housing for at least three consecutive days. This stipulation creates a barrier to entry that would prevent many people from getting help. Also, lots of people, homeless or not, are unaware of the resources that are available to help them, and even if they do know what is available, they may not know how to get access to these resources.

It is critical when implementing Right to Temporary Shelter that there are no stipulations and community outreach is provided to make people aware of what is offered and how they can enter the program.

I am calling on my fellow DTLA community members to stand up and be voices for the voiceless on the issue of homelessness. Together we can help the most vulnerable members of our community achieve greater well-being and avoid waiting for help, which would only serve to cause further harm. We can do this by reaching out to our State Assembly representative, Miguel Santiago (District Office: 320 W. Fourth Street, Room 1050 Los Angeles, 90013; 213-620-4646; assemblymember.santiago@assembly. ca.gov), to voice concern for our neighbors experiencing homelessness and support Right to Temporary Shelter as a means to get them help as soon as possible.

We must advocate for amending the bill to remove any requirements for entry and provide community outreach to bring awareness about the program to ensure maximum participation. A successful vote to implement Right to Temporary Shelter will provide people with help sooner rather than later, when they might develop more serious issues or succumb to their circumstances. It will literally save lives.

Sam Scaffido

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Presidential slogans a slippery slope Editor: Those who place confidence in slogans like Make America Great Again or Build Back Better risk embarrassment down the road, if American history is any indicator.

Presidents are monopolists of political power. Sometimes they actually deliver on their seductive promises, but most times they deliver the opposite, if they feel like it.

James Polk ran on a slogan of “54-40 or fight.” This was a clear promise to unleash the might of a brand-new American imperial empire on the four winds. America, from the mid-1800s on, spread its skirts outward and reaped the benefits of influence and conquest like Rome of old.

A half-century later, Theodore Roosevelt reminded voters that what America could not produce at home we could grab by force from abroad. His philosophy was, “Speak softly and carry a big stick.” Another 50 years later, the nation heard, “Give ‘em hell, Harry.” Harry Truman then introduced the nation to the hell of unconstitutional president-declared wars, starting with the Korean War. Often, the slogan makes a little bit of sense but a whole lot more nonsense.

During a time of the Civil War in 1864, Abe Lincoln popularized the saying, “Don’t change horses midstream.” An electorate in a day of horse-mediated travel under-

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

stood that the river current might tug so hard you might never get back on any horse at all.

That slogan became the mantra of presidents desperately unwilling to give up national power, even if it was un-American or unconstitutional to continue in office.

Franklin Roosevelt used the same slogan in 1944 to successfully win his fourth presidential term and make him the first American ruler for life. Others after him, like George W. Bush, let the electorate know that because there was a savage and necessary war going on (that he started), why would they even think of changing leaders after only one term?

Over the course of our long, patriotic history led by macho presidents we also spent the flower of our youth on foreign soil with the end result of making dirty old rich men dirtier and richer, leaving the rest of the nation harassed and impoverished.

History has a habit of repeating itself. After a killer influenza epidemic and our first world war, a campaigning Warren G. Harding called for a “Return to normalcy.” Turns out Harding then introduced the American people to a different kind of “normal,” a level of political corruption that became the acceptable norm in the 20th century White House.

What more seductive sound could one hear than a promise to reduce the workday by a couple hours? Woodrow Wilson

DOWNTOWN NEWS 9

KIRK’S OPINION

brayed, “Vote for 8 Hour Wilson.” I wonder if employers had a little say about that, too?

Very often, presidential candidates openly and scandalously promise what every American desperately needs and wants. Herbert Hoover promised “a chicken in every pot and a car in every garage.”

Did he actually have the power to do that?

George H.W. Bush yammered, “Read my lips, no new taxes.” Then, of course, new taxes happened.

Ronald Reagan intoned the lyric, “It’s morning again in America,” forgetting to

mention the new dawn he would create would move America from once being the greatest creditor nation in the world to, in his term, being the greatest debtor nation in the world. A dark morning indeed.

Most often, presidential promises just require a blind leap of faith. Mr. Trump’s team said, “Build the wall and crime will fall.” In 2020-21 crime leapt like a wildfire across America. But no matter, sounded like a done deal at the time.

Robert Kimball Shinkoskey

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

10 DOWNTOWN NEWS

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Covered California CONSIDER THIS will help

Witch is scarier?

Got a light?

By Ellen Snortland LA Downtown News Columnist oo! Halloween has come once again, with its assortment of ghouls, goblins and witches. My question is: Why are witches considered scary Halloween characters? Wouldn’t the creepier ones be the Inquisition boys, especially the ones with matchbooks? Maybe Spanish Inquisition costumes are just too darn hard to come by. I know they would scare me a lot more than a witch, my little pretty.

I’d also be frightened if I saw Proud Boys, Incels or KKK goons at my door. And the costumes are so easy to make! It takes minimal effort to cut holes in a white sheet for eye sockets. How about that Jan. 6 insurrectionist with the face paint and Viking horns? Anyone can quickly put that get-up together and be a simultane-

B

ous laughing stock and object of terror.

Take a look at any of those guys (the gals? not very creative), and you can create a costume that sends chills down decent citizens’ spines. Not a witch among them.

It’s interesting to me that witches have been portrayed through the ages as terrifying creatures. In truth, the women labeled witches were often aging wealthy widows or bachelorettes (now there’s a medieval term for you) who made their living practicing herbal remedies and home medicine. These women also knew the secrets of midwifery, birth control and stopping unwanted pregnancies. Midwives often had their careers born of necessity because almost all other paying work was verboten. And since newts and toads were free and plentiful in the medieval European woods, who could blame them for adding a slight markup to their

Transforming education for the community, with the community, from diapers to diplomas LAEP.ORG

pharmaceuticals? A gal’s got to eat.

Here’s some other “enlightenment” about heretic barbecues. While it’s estimated that around 80% of the victims of stake burnings were females, Jews, Romanis and other “undesirables” of both genders were executed as well.

The source of these tortures and death?

Greed and religious fervor; problems we still deal with today. Religious intolerance has been deadly for anyone who does not hew to the dominating religion. This was true in the past and continues in the present: The future is up to us.

Do you really think that the rabid, rightwing Christians will stop at ending abortions? Really? Nope, they will not. If they succeed in overturning Roe v. Wade, they will next attempt to ban birth control. Of course, they will leave condoms and vasectomies alone because, you know, men aren’t scary, but unbridled women are.

Most modern Catholics use some type of birth control regardless of what the Catholic hierarchy preaches.

As enforced by the Spanish Inquisition, the medieval Catholic patriarchy — other countries also had their own Inquisition — were ambitious in their drive to find/ destroy mother/goddess worship. They spread terror to those who practiced the ancient mother ways to coerce the relatively new father worship on everyone.

Now here comes the really chilling part about the so-called witches. Guess how many were burned in Europe during the Middle Ages? Most people I ask guess 1,000, maybe 6,000. Well, have I got news for you… four-centuries-old news. Some contemporary historians place the number at as much as 8 million… but definitely in the hundreds of thousands, if not in the millions. Burning women at the stake is an ambition squelcher for sure.

Please understand that I genuinely don’t mean to make light (pardon the expression) of such an incredible tragedy. Still, there are many centuries between these woman burnings and now, so I’m able to make a few observations without naming names, pending notification of relatives, of course. Because traditional historians don’t seem to think millions of women are worth mentioning, we’ll leave it to a humorist to bring light (there’s that word again) to the darker side of things.

Many people I’ve told about this can’t believe there’s been no mention in the big history books of the multitude of women burned as alleged witches. I maintain that we do remember — at a primitive, collective consciousness, cellular level — which explains why it’s the men in our culture who barbecue; ask a woman to light up the grill, and she’s apt to suddenly have the urge to mop the kitchen floor, bucket of water at the ready.

Oh yes, the inquisition had quite a nasty reputation with women in those days.

Even sympathetic men had a hard time relating to women. The most well-meaning man could ask a woman if she needed a light, and she’d be a half-mile down the village path before he could scythe another stalk.

So, this Halloween, if cheesy costume companies can come up with a Drumpf costume, how about going with a “sexy” inquisition outfit? Witches are so old hat.

Cackling witches? Yawn. The crispy inquisitor could be a hit at costume parties by including “snap, crackle, and pop” sound effects. If you see them… run!!

Ellen Snortland has had a burning desire to write a gender column for decades. Contact her at authorbitebybite.com

Hey you! Speak up!

Downtown News wants to hear from people in the community. If you like or dislike a story, let us know, or weigh in on something you feel is important to the community.

Participation is easy. Go to downtownnews.com, scroll to the bottom of the page and click the “Letter to the Editor” link. For guest opinion proposals, please email christina@timespublications.com.

OCTOBER 25, 2021

EDUCATION SPOTLIGHT

DOWNTOWN NEWS 11

Your future awaits in creative higher education

By Los Angeles Film School The Los Angeles Film School is a place that thrives on creativity.

Proud to be one of Hollywood’s leading film and entertainment colleges, the Los Angeles Film School strives to equip aspiring artists with the necessary skills they need to succeed in this industry.

Whether our students choose to take classes online or on campus in Hollywood, we train the next generation of creative professionals. Creative students thrive in our experiential class environment under the instruction of seasoned faculty members, many of whom are still actively involved in the entertainment industry.

Each discipline offers curricula designed to provide students with the knowledge, hands-on experience and industry connections necessary to succeed in the rapidly changing landscape of the entertainment business.

We offer entertainment-focused Bachelor of Science degrees in animation, audio production, digital filmmaking, entertainment business, film production, graphic design, media communications, and writing for film and television as well as Associate of Science degrees in audio production, music production and film.

A student shoots on the Chaplin Green Screen Stage.

Photo courtesy of Los Angeles Film School

The LA Film School has been an academic leader in the entertainment community since 1999. Throughout the years, many graduates have found success in the entertainment industry and have won numerous awards.

Awarded alumni include Oscar-winning alumnus Phillip Bladh (Best Sound Oscar 2021), six-time Latin Grammy-winning alumnus Andrés Borda Zabala, and Emmy-winning alumnus Oz Rodriguez.

ADVERTORIAL

Dub stage; 720-square-foot, 64-fader Icon D-Control ES video screen, lecture seating.

Photo courtesy of Los Angeles Film School

Our alumni combine their passion with their education to blaze their own trail in the entertainment industry. Every year we honor these distinguished alumni for their achievements in entertainment during the Spotlight Awards Ceremony. The selected alumni are inducted into The Spotlight Academy, which pays tribute to the heart, the creative and the dedicated among the LA Film School alumni network.

Visit lafilm.edu to learn more.

EYE ON EDUCATION

12 DOWNTOWN NEWS

FIDM’s Downtown Los Angeles campus is adjacent to Grand Hope Park, where students take breaks between classes.

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Project-based learning is at the heart of the FIDM experience.

Photo courtesy of FIDM

Photo courtesy of FIDM

On a factory tour, students learn from the best right here in Los Angeles, the city that’s responsible for over 90% of the premium denim manufactured in the United States.

Photo courtesy of FIDM

FIDM invites students back for full return to campus life

By FIDM Strategically located in the center of California’s No. 1 industries, FIDM is a four-year private, specialized, accredited college dedicated to educating students for the fashion, interior design, digital arts and entertainment industries.

Named a Top 10 Graphic Design School by College Magazine and one of the Top 10 Sustainable Fashion Schools in the World by the University Network, FIDM’s MBA, B.A., B.S. and A.A. degrees are taught by a prestigious faculty composed of notable talent such as Emmy Award winner Tom Henkenius; Grammy Award-winning designer Kevin Reagan; Cross Colours co-founder TJ Walker; Emmy Award-winning costume designer Jacqueline Saint Anne; and Morgan Di Stefano, vice president of communications for Disney Channels, among many others.

FIDM believes in a dynamic classroom approach that integrates knowing and doing. Via Classroom Partner Projects and FIDM Super Labs, students generate innovative design and business solutions for top brands, giving students the opportunity to collaborate with companies, build their portfolios, and put what they’re learning in the classroom to work.

“When we talk about studying in college or becoming an educated person, we tend to think about producing research papers or cramming through textbooks to prepare for final examinations,” said Sheryl Rabinovich, FIDM’s dean of education.

“While these activities are the norm, applied learning, or project-based learning, goes the extra step and takes students up the ladder of learning.”

Industry partnerships are with some of

the world’s most recognizable and influential brands. Classroom collaborators include Disney, Nike, Nars, Victoria’s Secret, PacSun, Converse, Levi’s and Pixar. Part-time work and internships with companies like J Brand Jeans, L’Oréal, ColourPop, NBC Universal, Nordstrom and Anthropologie are an integral part of the curriculum.

Beauty students in FIDM’s promotion and presentation class have developed promotional events at seven Kiehl’s stores in Southern California.

The design installation class has worked to design and execute a set of windows for Gap. Students in The Business of Denim program were challenged to reinvent the iconic Levi’s 501 jeans for modern times, while graphic design students presented scripted show ideas to Hollywood entertainment executives.

High school applicants, college graduates and transfer students can apply for full and partial scholarships. Full first-year scholarships are available through the FCCLA National Scholarship Competition, the FIDM Fashion Club Junior Scholarship Competition and the GUESS Scholars Program.

Strengthening our commitment to accessibility, equity and inclusion in education, FIDM offers an annual $10,000 scholarship designated specifically for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, people of color) students who demonstrate high potential for success in any FIDM major.

As the country reckons with issues surrounding racism, discrimination, power and privilege, FIDM instructors Drs. Gwenael Matos and Monica Carbajal developed a new FIDM course for associate’s degree students titled Perspectives on Diversity.

ADVERTORIAL

In the general studies course, students examine the subtle and overt ways in which society marginalizes and discriminates against groups of people including, but not limited to, racial, cultural, ethnic and religious groups; women; the elderly; persons with different abilities; the homeless; military veterans; nonbinary people and the LGBTQIA+ community.

The course analyzes the roots of discrimination, fear, hate and bias and explores how to create and promote a more inclusive society.

FIDM alumni include Monique Lhuillier, world-renowned designer; Rea Ann Silva, founder of beautyblender; Sarah Truly Beers, Marvel’s vice president of franchise creative and marketing; Kia Ragland, director of global product development at Smashbox Cosmetics; costume designer Trish Summerville (“Red Sparrow,” “Westworld,” “Gone Girl,” “Hunger Games: Catching Fire”); Angelica Villegas, senior art director at Lady Gaga’s Haus Laboratories; Johanna Lageder, senior production manager for Set+Stage Creative; and Jonathan Gitlin, partner, president of TV/streaming & gaming at Create Advertising.

FIDM has more than 50 years of experience helping students build an incredible network as they gain knowledge and job experience so that when they graduate, they’re ready to launch a successful career.

This fall quarter 2021, FIDM has invited students back for a full return to the dynamic campus life that energizes and inspires. All have returned to campus with a renewed dedication to making the world an even better place. A community of thinkers, dreamers, makers, creators and innovators, FIDM is an iconic institution that continues to prepare graduates for success in the fashion and design industries.

OCTOBER 25, 2021

EYE ON EDUCATION

DOWNTOWN NEWS 13

YOUR TRANSFER STORY BEGINS HERE IT’S CLOSER THAN YOU THINK. EARN YOUR BACHELOR’S IN FASHION, DESIGN, MARKETING, OR BUSINESS.

FIDM.EDU MBA | B.A. | B.S. | A.A.

14 DOWNTOWN NEWS

EYE ON EDUCATION

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Find your degree program for a better future at Cal State LA Downtown

By Cal State LA Downtown Many people are re-evaluating their jobs and reflecting on their career paths. They are making changes for a more fulfilling profession, including pursuing higher education to create a more rewarding future for themselves.

For many Cal State LA Downtown graduates, finding the right degree program was a perfect fit.

Transitioning toward success: Roshawn Davis In search of a degree program in psychology that would increase her understanding of people and human behavior, Roshawn Davis chose the Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Program.

“The staff provid- Roshawn Davis, Bachelor of Arts in ed answers to all Psychology.

Photo courtesy of Cal State LA Downtown my questions, including financial aid.” Conveniently located near her home and job and within easy access to public transportation, Davis said the program provided her with a solid foundation to pursue her doctorate in industrial/organizational psychology (I/OP).

Preparing for an entrepreneurial future: Stephanie Barraza With aspirations of opening her own business, following in the footsteps of her parents, Stephanie Barraza chose the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Program.

“My instructors provided course- Stephanie Barraza, Bachelor of work that was al- Science in Business Administration.

Photo courtesy of Cal State LA Downtown ways interesting and that I was able to apply to today’s real-world business optics.” A first-generation American, Barraza was the first person in her family to earn a college degree. “I did this for me and my family. I wanted them to see that higher education is possible and accessible.”

On track to meet transportation growth: Ruben Cardenas Jr. The thought of earning an MBA to advance his career at Metro had been on the mind of Ruben Cardenas Jr. Still, the demands of a career and family, combined with inconvenient course schedules Ruben Cardenas Jr., Master of offered at local Business Administration.

Photo courtesy of Cal State LA Downtown universities, prevented him from completing his pursuit. Then he discovered the 16-month Fully Employed MBA Program with weekend classes and online learning during the week. “As an ‘adult learner’ returning to school, the challenges posed by learning in a cohort, combined with the faculty’s knowledge and related work experience, was exhilarating. I feel it is important that no matter what stage you are in your career, education is important.”

Apply now to Cal State LA Downtown Applications for all Cal State LA Downtown degree programs are being accepted. In addition to the programs mentioned above, the following programs are also available: Master of Public Health The Master of Public Health Program comes at a time of growing demand for public health professionals in the United States. Designed for experienced public health professionals and individuals just beginning their careers, the program’s curriculum includes a unique focus on urban communities. This not only sets it apart from other offerings in the area, but also provides students with the skills necessary to serve diverse communities where health equity remains a vexing issue.

Bachelor of Science in Hospitality, Wellness and Leisure Services The Bachelor of Science Degree in Hospitality, Wellness and Leisure Services Program provides knowledge and skills in the areas of restaurant and lodging, wellness (nutrition and health), revenue and cost controls, human resources, cultural competencies and customer expectations. According to Program Adviser Curtiss Bawden, “The impact of COVID-19 has had a devastating effect on the hospitality industry.” However, according ADVERTORIAL

to the L.A. Tourism Board, L.A. tourism/hospitality is one of the first industries to bounce back after a recession. “Our students are graduating just as the upswing in hospitality jobs is occurring like we have never seen before.”

Bachelor of Arts in Communication Today, organizational communication is important because it significantly impacts several important areas of an organization, including employee engagement, customer satisfaction, and public perceptions. The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Program, with an option in organizational communication, is designed for individuals and working professionals interested in earning a degree in a vast and growing field. The broad nature of the curriculum also makes it applicable to students seeking advancement in any career.

Career development programs Cal State LA Downtown also offers certificate and professional training programs designed to propel adult learners into new careers or increase their skill sets and value in their current positions. Programs include Paralegal Studies, Project Management, Medical Billing and Coding, Pharmacy Technician, and the new Women First: Leadership and Professional Development.

Visit the Cal State LA Downtown website, calstatela.edu/dtla, for more information on all programs and upcoming webinars.

OCTOBER 25, 2021

DTLA-EDUCATIONAd-DTNews-fp-cmyk-Oct2021-outlined.indd 1

EYE ON EDUCATION

DOWNTOWN NEWS 15

10/14/21 2:23 PM

EYE ON EDUCATION

16 DOWNTOWN NEWS

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Pilgrim School: A safe haven in Koreatown

By Pilgrim School “The mission of Pilgrim School is to nurture the mind, spirit and moral awareness of our students.”

Pilgrim School is an extraordinary independent school located near the heart of one of the largest and most diverse cities in the country.

Small class sizes and devoted faculty Pilgrim School is offering open houses on ensure that every child is supported to Saturdays Nov. 13 and Dec. 4. become their best self. The caring and Photo courtesy of Pilgrim School close-knit community allows us to create a hygienic environment that has been commended by the LA Department of Public Health as going “above and beyond” its guidelines.

We are back on our beautiful campus full time for all students from toddlers to 12th grade, and our extensive class offerings, ranging from STEM areas such as engineering to the creative arts programming in our spectacular Art Center, mean that students have the chance to experience any academic area that interests them.

Our health-tailored athletic programs build teams where every student learns the value and joy of teamwork. Our emphasis on community engagement opportunities (COVID-19 safe, of course) help teach children to become contributing members of the community whether in person or virtually, and how to make service to others a seamless part of their life.

At Pilgrim School, the goal is to find the particular way that each child can thrive — as a student, an athlete, an artist, a member of the community and, most importantly, as a confident and caring individual.

Visit us at pilgrim-school.org or call 213-355-5204 to find out about the fall open houses on Saturdays Nov. 13 and Dec. 4.

ADVERTORIAL

The LAGRANT Foundation helps ethnic minority students achieve their career goals

The LAGRANT Foundation (TLF) is hiring!

TLF is looking to fill the following roles at its Downtown L.A. office: • Programs & Outreach Associate • Senior Programs & Outreach Associate • Programs & Outreach Manager $1,500 - $2,500 Sign On Bonus!

For more information and to apply, please contact: Mr. Kim L. Hunter, Chairman & CEO Email: kimhunter@lagrant.com Phone: 323-469-8680 Ext. 225 Our Mission: The LAGRANT Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to increase the number of ethnic minorities in the fields of advertising, marketing and public relations by providing scholarships, career & professional development workshops, mentors and internships to African American/Black, Alaska Native/Native American, Asian American/ Pacific Islander and Hispanic/Latino undergraduate and graduate students.

Our goal is to open the proverbial “door” for minorities by providing the necessary resources and tools not commonly available to many minorities entering the fields of advertising, marketing and public relations.

Learn more about The LAGRANT Foundation at www.lagrantfoundation.org

By Christopher Juarez The LAGRANT Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization that depends on the generosity of its supporters to provide scholarships, career development and professional workshops, internships/entry-level jobs, and mentors to qualified ethnic minority students pursuing careers in advertising, marketing or public relations.

We are asking you to help us by donating a 100% tax-deductible gift today. Donations can be made directly online by visiting our website at lagrantfoundation.org.

Since its inception in 1998, The LAGRANT Foundation has:

The 2019 scholarship recipients in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Photo courtesy of The LAGRANT Foundation

• Awarded 703 scholarships.

• Awarded nearly $3 million in scholarships.

• Provided in excess of 575 internships and full-time employment.

• Conducted more than 575 career and professional development workshops.

No gift is too small, as your investment will go a long way in securing a better tomorrow for these bright minds and the future of our communications industry.

Patrons can contribute in three ways: • Direct contributions: Make a tax-deductible donation to The LAGRANT Foundation by cash, check or credit card.

• A gift in someone’s name: Honor your friends, family and/or business colleagues with a gift in their name to The LAGRANT Foundation.

• Employer-matched gift: Double, even triple, your gift to The LAGRANT Foundation if your employer has gift-matching programs.

ADVERTORIAL

EYE ON EDUCATION

OCTOBER 25, 2021

DOWNTOWN NEWS 17

STEMPilot flies students into great careers

By STEMPilot STEMPilot offers students a pathway to great careers in engineering, science, coding, aviation, business and more. Students are challenged to answer one simple question: “Why do airplanes fly?”

Students will learn the theory and science of flight while they train on an Edustation or Pilot Pro simulator.

They will form “Flight Crews” to fly the tutored simulator learning missions, learning all the important activities for flying and landing a Cessna 172 aircraft. Every flight plan makes use of At Washington Prep in Los Angeles, students geometry, physics, trigonometry, memake use of geometry, physics, trigonometry, teorology, geography and topography. meteorology, geography and topography.

The curriculum includes an easy-toPhoto courtesy of STEM Pilot follow multimedia lesson plan aligned with NGSS. Our upcoming 3-5 Science STEM: Aviation is Google Classroom ready. See the classroom simulators at https://bit.ly/STEMPilotLanding.

SAFEDrone teaches the theory of flight while students train to fly quad-copters first on the drone simulator. Upon completing the sim training, students will fly guarded prop quad-copters indoors. The kits include everything you need for schools’ S.A.F.E. program. See all of the SAFEDrone Products at https://bit.ly/SAFEDrone.

For more information, visit stempilot.com or call 914-262-1366 for local rep.

ADVERTORIAL

Los primeros años de la vida de un niño son críticos para su desarrollo. Los niños en riesgo de un atraso en el desarrollo, o que muestran signos de atraso, pueden calificar para la intervención y los servicios a través del programa Early Start de California.

En todo el estado de California, el programa Early Start es coordinado por los 21 centros regionales. Con la guía de los coordinadores de servicios, un plan individualizado de servicios y apoyos puede marcar la diferencia en el desarrollo de un niño.

Para las personas mayores de 3 años, los centros regionales también brindan servicios y apoyos de por vida desde la edad escolar hasta la edad adulta, incluida la coordinación de servicios, la planificación de servicios individuales, educación relacionadas con la defensa y capacitación.

En asociación con los Centros de Recursos Familiares, los padres y los miembros de la familia pueden recibir apoyo, orientación, información y referencias a recursos comunitarios.

Debido a la disminución de las referencias durante el estado de emergencia de COVID-19, es importante saber que su centro regional local permanece abierto y está aceptando referencias. Aunque algunos miembros del personal del centro regional pueden estar trabajando de forma remota, continúan trabajando arduamente para garantizar que su hijo reciba los servicios que necesita.

Para averiguar exactamente qué centro regional serviría a su familia, visite dds.ca.gov/services or dds.ca.gov/listings

The first few years of a child’s life are critical for their development. Children at risk of a developmental delay, or showing any signs of delay, may qualify for intervention and services through the Early Start program of California.

Across the state of California, the Early Start program is coordinated by all 21 regional centers. With the guidance of service coordinators, an individualized plan for services and supports can make a difference in a child’s development.

For individuals over the age of 3, the regional centers also provide lifelong services and supports from the school age years through adulthood, including service coordination, individual service planning, education related advocacy and training In partnership with the Family Resource Centers, parents and family members may receive parent-to-parent support, guidance, information and referrals to community resources.

Due to the decline in referrals during the COVID-19 State of Emergency, it is important to know that your local regional center remains open and is accepting referrals. Although some regional center staff may be working remotely, they continue to work hard to ensure your child is receiving the services they need.

To find out exactly which regional center would serve your family, please visit dds.ca.gov/services or dds.ca.gov/listings

Frank D. Lanterman Regional Center 3303 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA 90010 (213) 383-1300 or (213) 252-5600 kyrc@lanterman.org | www.lanterman.org

Frank D. Lanterman Regional Center 3303 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA 90010 (213) 383-1300 or (213) 252-5600 kyrc@lanterman.org | www.lanterman.org

18 DOWNTOWN NEWS

DT

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Covered ARTS & California CULTUREwill help

Elfman turns ‘Big Mess’ into masterpiece

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski LA Downtown News Executive Editor f Danny Elfman was told a year ago that he would duet with Trent Reznor on his first solo album in 37 years, he would have said, “You’re crazy.”

Similarly, he would not believe he would work with Billie Eilish, “Weird Al” Yankovic and Paul Reubens on a live production of “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

Both have come to fruition.

The renowned composer took the pandemic woes and channeled the into his new, aptly named album, “Big Mess,” which features “True” with Reznor.

Clocking in at 18 tracks, the ambitious collection sees Elfman joined by drummer Josh Freese (Devo, Weezer, The Vandals), bassist Stu Brooks (Dub Trio, Lady Gaga, Lauryn Hill), and guitarists Robin Finck (Nine Inch Nails, Guns N’ Roses) and Nili Brosh (Tony MacAlpine, Paul Gilbert).

“I was in the studio, recording with a lot of great musicians,” he said. “I could have never anticipated that at all.

“I hadn’t really sung anything as myself in 25 years, and to my surprise, I found that I could do things now that I couldn’t have done when I was younger. It was like discovering I had a whole new voice.”

“Big Mess” is a double album, a reflection of his prolificity — and his disappointment of Coachella’s cancellation. He was slated to perform there.

“I had to find something to do with this frustrated kind of energy I was filled with,” Elfman said. “I was pretty depressed. I had to work through it as best I could and ended up with ‘Big Mess.’

“I was scheduled to do Coachella. It had as much to do with it than anything else. My brain was wired for holding an electric guitar and singing and playing guitar. That was still in my consciousness.

“I hadn’t been in that mode for a long time. In the studio, I was practicing with these guys and playing guitars.”

Besides Coachella, Elfman was scheduled to premiere his violin concerto in pandemic-riddled 2020. It was the first time in 37 years he did not schedule film work, too. Everything fell apart.

Still, Elfman maintained his passion. The surprise of his career, he said, is the success of the “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” concerts.

“If you told me 15 years ago, ‘You’re going to be on these big concert stages,’ I would have said, ‘You’re crazy. Not in a million years,’” said Elfman, who wants to work on another musical.

“I stay passionate because of my ability to switch it up — do film work, symphony concert work, stage performing work and now, potentially, in the studio recording with my own voice again. That’s what keeps me excited.

“I was terrible at being in a band. Touring made me crazy. If I spent more than a month or six weeks on the road, I was ready to kill myself. I’m not good at doing one thing continuously. The nice thing about film work is the types of films are pushing me in every different direction.”

This month, Elfman returns to the stage as Jack Skellington with a live-to-film concert experience of Disney’s holiday classic “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” at Banc of California Stadium.

Joining Elfman are performer Ken Page in his original iconic singing role of Oogie Boogie and “Weird Al” Yankovic set to take on the singing role of Shock. Reubens has joined the cast as Lock, and Eilish will sing “Sally’s Song.”

Conductor John Mauceri will conduct a full orchestra performing the film’s classic score and songs live, accompanying Elfman — who composed the original film’s music, lyrics and score — singing live in-sync with the film.

A stadiumwide costume contest will take place before the show begins, with every attendee given the chance to be selected by roaming judges and brought up on stage for a crowd-voted crowning.

“I can’t believe they added a second show,” Elfman said. “I’m always amazed for this show that we’re in a theater bigger than 250 seats. We’re in a wonderful new arena, and it’s our first time being there. Being on stage with Billie and Weird Al is totally new for me. I’m really looking forward to that.

“If someone would have said, ‘Oh, the next time you play, you’ll be joined by Weird Al and Billie Eilish,’ I would have laughed and said, ‘Yeah, right. That’s not going to happen.’ It’s so exciting for me. The unexpected is what’s so exciting. Unless a piano falls on your head from a 10th-floor window, that kind of unexpected isn’t exciting.”

I

Danny Elfman is excited about what 2021 brought — a new album, “Big Mess,” and a live version of “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.”

Photo by Silvia Grav

“Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 29; and 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 31 WHERE: Banc of California Stadium, 3939 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles COST: Tickets start at $39.50 INFO: 213-519-9900, bancofcaliforniastadium.com Entry requirements: • Proof of full vaccination or proof of a negative COVID-19 test result taken within 72 hours prior to entry required for all attendees ages 12 and older.

• Photo identification that matches proof of vaccination or negative test result required for all ticketed guests.

• Children younger than 12 do not need a negative test result for entry.

• All attendees older than 2, regardless of vaccination status, are to be masked at all times, unless actively eating or drinking in designated areas.

OCTOBER 25, 2021

DT

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

DOWNTOWN NEWS 19

Covered ARTS & California CULTUREwill help

Destructo to bring Halloween-themed Sunrise Sermon to LA

By Jordan Houston LA Downtown News Staff Writer ouse music powerhouse Gary Richards, who goes by the name Destructo, is taking Los Angeles to church with one of his historic Sunrise Sermon sets — with a darker and more supernatural performance.

The acclaimed DJ, concert promoter and producer is kicking off Halloween with a special two-day event on Oct. 30 at Los Angeles’ Avalon Hollywood and on Oct. 31 at San Francisco’s Audio. Beginning at 6 a.m., Richards will guide fans along a “hair-raising” and Halloween-themed journey as he performs an explosive mixture of electro-house and rap, ranging from the classics to present day.

The show will go on past sunrise, much like previous sermons, and has no confirmed end time, according to Richards.

“The sermon is a journey of house music over the years,” Richards said. “I try to play classic records that maybe the newer crowd doesn’t know but records that mean a lot to me. I’ve been DJing since the early ’90s, so I get a chance to go back and pick out the records and be like, ‘Aw, I remember that.’

“To me, it’s like my history, career and music — I get to put it all into one set and then to see people really appreciating it,” he continued. “I love it.”

Richards’ Sunrise Sermons have quickly morphed into dance music fan favorites and provide a spiritual “experience for electronic music enthusiasts making dancing through sunrise a one-of-a-kind moment.”

The longtime industry professional has dominated the dance floor since 2011, from his acclaimed “Technology” EP (2012) and “Higher” EP (2013) to creating high-profile remixes for artists in the ranks of Depeche Mode, Giorgio Moroder, Major Lazer, Rob Zombie and Digitalism. In 2014, Richards evolved to fuse dance music with rap and trap with the “West Coast” EP, collaborating major emcees such as E-40, Too $hort and Busta Rhymes.

“I’m continually searching for tracks that I haven’t played in the sermon before,” Richards noted. “I have 100,000 pieces of vinyl. I feel like, for me, this is an area where I can shine and show my stuff and stand out from everyone else.”

Richards said the sermons initially took off when he was performing for a cruise ship back in the day. He recalled landing one of his first shows, which started at 6 a.m. The DJ said he played a lot of “old-school techno” to keep the crowd awake and lively, which later bled into an upcoming performance on the ship.

“Somebody remembered I did that event and said, ‘Why don’t you do that sermon on the ship?’ And it kind of became the thing on the ship,” Richards shared.

“It’s unique playing at sunrise. I like to start when it’s a little dark with maybe some weird, strange techno stuff, and then when the sun comes up and it gets bright, I hit people with the classics,” he added. “I have some records I can play for a long time.”

Richards quickly began to land festival bookings to play sunrise sets.

During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic last year, Richards tapped into live streaming as a way to connect with fans despite social distancing guidelines. He continued the Sermon virtually from his living room with some sets gathering over 200,000 views via Twitch, Facebook and YouTube.

“During lockdown, I did a bunch from my house. I livestreamed and I had a house with a lot of windows for the sunrise,” the musician said. “Or I would go out in the desert by myself, and it kept a lot of people together in the pandemic.”

Richards is also slated to play at the Halloween-themed bash his latest single “Shine On,” which is a return to his more familiar deep house roots.

The house production was inspired by Richards’ late brother, No Name Worldwide founder Steven Richards, and features vocals from Canadian artist Harm Franklin and Richards himself. The track was released on Oct. 15 via Richards’ All My Friends label.

The Los Angeles-based DJ expressed he is looking forward to the upcoming Sunrise Sermon and hopes to provide a venue for the community to reconnect, relax, release and enjoy.

“I’m looking forward to just bringing all these people together in LA and San Fran that

H

Destructo will be performing a two-day “hair-rasing” and Halloween-themed event featuring an explosive mixture of elctro-house and rap, ranging from classics to present day.

Photo by Brian Ziff

are part of my extended family,” he said. “Seeing everybody dance and having a good time — just making people happy,” he said. “It’s a lot for me to play at that time and that long, but people love it and I feed off of the energy of that crowd.”

Destructo WHEN: 6 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 30 WHERE: Avalon Hollywood, 1735 Vine Street, Los Angeles COST: Tickets start at $15 INFO: avalonhollywood.com or djdestructo.com

20 DOWNTOWN NEWS

DT

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Covered ARTS & California CULTUREwill help

‘Handsome’ Boy Pablo hints at coming-of-age project

By Mike Madriaga LA Downtown News Contributing Writer edroom pop fans can post a thank-you emoji to the algorithmic cupids of YouTube for reuniting Boy Pablo and Cuco at the Shrine Auditorium & Expo Hall on Monday, Nov. 1.

Los Angeles is the fifth city to host Boy Pablo’s Wachito Rico North America Tour. “‘Wachito Rico’ is Chilean slang for like ‘handsome boy’ or ‘sexy boy,’” said Nicolás Pablo Rivera Muñoz, the lead singer of the Norwegian alternative rock and pop group.

The act released two EPs from 2017-18 — “Roy Pablo” and “Soy Pablo” — and neither contained Spanish lyrics.

“So, what I really wanted to do was write something in Spanish.”

In late 2020, Muñoz and his bandmates released “Wachito Rico,” their first full-length LP, a collection of romantic songs — and a mustache jam.

The title track and “Mustache” are whimsical songs showcasing Muñoz’s Chilean roots with Spanish and English verses that he harmonized over his bandmates’ upbeat instrumentals.

Then there’s “Te Vas // Don’t Go,” a somber song about Rico, a character he developed for the album and its videos. Heartbroken, Rico pleads with his girl, “Te vas, ¿por qué te vas? (“You’re leaving, why are you leaving?”)

“I’ve been speaking Spanish since I was a little kid,” Muñoz said.

“I speak Spanish with my parents.”

Muñoz’s parents emigrated from Chile in the late ’80s. “My dad used to play a lot in church back home in Chile. He was one of the best guitarists and a choir leader. And he knew how to play multiple instruments.”

Muñoz’s parents raised their four children in Bergen, a city on the west coast of Norway.

Boy Pablo or Nico Muñoz is the baby; Esteban Muñoz is his older brother by nine years and the drummer of Boy Pablo. They have a brother and sister who are not in the music industry but are talented musicians as well. “That’s how all of us kids picked up on music,” Muñoz said

B

Los Angeles is the fifth city to host Boy Pablo’s Wachito Rico North America Tour, coming to Shrine Auditorium & Expo Hall Monday, Nov. 1.

Submitted photo

Join our free Medicare Forum Register online for one of our free WebEx virtual Medicare seminars to get your questions answered from home.

October 16 - 9 am to 12 noon | English October 30 - 9 am to 12:30 pm | Spanish November 6 - 9 am to 12:30 pm | Spanish November 13 - 9 am to 12 noon | English

Ask the right questions.

Make the right moves.

As your local partner in health, we’re here to help you take the right steps to find a Medicare Advantage plan that gives you access to PIH Health’s award-winning network of local doctors and hospitals.

November 20 - 9 am to 12:30 pm | Korean ChoosePIHHealth.com G E T A C C E S S T O L O C A L , AWA R D - W I N N I N G C A R E

800.967.8130

P I H H E A LT H | W I T H Y O U A T E V E R Y S T E P

OCTOBER 25, 2021

proudly of their father’s influence.

Muñoz is a 22-year-old multiinstrumentalist artist who is also fluent in Norwegian and English. “I think people appreciate it that I’m singing in Spanish, because I didn’t use to.

I was in the UK a couple of weeks ago playing some shows, and when we played ‘Wachito Rico,’ everybody knew every lyric. It was amazing, actually!”

And what about the 27-second instrumental “Vamos A La Playa (Let’s Go to the Beach)” track?

“My brother-in-law, who was the producer, was like, ‘We should have like an introduction to ‘Wachito Rico,’ something that starts slow then speeds up.’ So I wanted it to be a part of the song, but like everyone I asked said, ‘You should keep ‘Wachito Rico’ by itself.’ So I had to call the track something, and it was really random. ‘OK’ — ‘Vamos A La Playa.’

“Spontaneity has worked for me until now, I guess.”

In 2016, Fabio Enzo, Muñoz’s buddy and manager, suggested visuals to accompany the single “Everytime.”

“He said, ‘Can we just make a music video?

Just like anything really.’ And that was with my friends at school. And we were like, ‘Why not? We’ll just do it right now.’ And it’s literally him (Enzo) with like a camera — I think it cost like $200 from the airport — and it’s him walking around trying to find a good spot to film from.”

Muñoz and his then-fellow schoolmates from Kongshaug Musikkgymnas (Kongshaug

DOWNTOWN NEWS 21

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

Upper Secondary School of Music) are depicted playing music on the island of Lepsøya atop a cement walkway jutting out from a small bay southeast of the North Sea. In some clips, the Norwegian teens appeared dazed as they gazed into Enzo’s camera while he zoomed in and panned from a nearby and elevated bridge.

“Nothing was planned,” Muñoz continued.

“The sun was behind him, and we had to squint. He’s like, ‘Don’t close your eyes, don’t close your eyes,’ because he thought it was funny. He edited the whole thing in a couple of hours, and it was done.”

The nearly 3-minute video was uploaded on Enzo’s 777TV YouTube page on May 19, 2017. “For like four to five months, it didn’t get any attention,” Muñoz recounted. “It was just my friends digging it and family saying it was cool. I got a couple of thousand views.”

Then, the YouTube algorithm system did its magic.

“I don’t know a lot about algorithms, but what I do know when you search up a certain kind of thing on the internet, the internet just like feeds you with the same or similar things. And when people started listening to like Cuco, Clairo, like these kinds of artists that were similar to me, my video kept coming up on the recommended videos, like on the side of what they (viewers) were watching. Then suddenly it was everywhere. Everybody was listening to that kind of music back then, and ‘Everytime’ was everywhere.”

Like Boy Pablo, Clairo and Cuco created

some of their alternative rock and alternative pop music from the confines of their bedrooms. Hence the genreless “bedroom pop” term associated with their music and why the corresponding thumbnails would show up as recommended videos on the side of one another’s viral YouTube videos.

“I’m an independent artist still,” Muñoz continued. “So everything I do is organic. Regarding being a romantic singer, my native language is Norwegian, and the lyrics I’ve been listening to growing up are like love lyrics in English. The Beatles sang like literally only about love, and I listen to Blink-182 and they also sing about love, so it was natural for me to just write about love when I started writing in English, and it was the thing that came the most natural and easiest to me when I started writing.”

The dreamy “I <3 You” music video — which depicts Muñoz playing on a piano in a “Sound Of Music”-like scene and him being lovey-dovey with a girl — appears legit.

“Elizabeth: She’s the girl from the music video,” Muñoz said. “I met Elizabeth when I was like 4. We went to the same kindergar-

ten, and then the same (elementary and middle) school, and then the same high school.”

The two began dating when Muñoz was 15 years old and Elizabeth was 16 years old, and despite her now attending college and him being on tour, the two are still together.

The “Wachito Rico” LP contains 13 tracks, including the “Hey Girl” pop serenade and the psychedelic synth-infused “Honey” jam.

The songs are presented in lowercase text fonts like the “Boy Pablo” name emblazoned on accompanying CD inserts, vinyl record jackets, merch, and online music streaming service pages.

“My music may not be too profound, like deep,” he said.

“But, to me, it’s always been about the instrumentals and melodies. So, I tried to keep it more simple, more about the music.”

The “Everytime” music video has garnered 40.6 million views and counting, Muñoz hinted of a coming of age on his new project.

“With the new stuff I’m writing, I’m trying to work on my lyrics and try to hit other themes, like maybe growing up or like things that are more related to society,” he said.

Cuco with special guest Boy Pablo WHEN: 8 p.m. Monday, Nov. 1 WHERE: Shrine Auditorium & Expo Hall at 649 W. Jefferson Boulevard, Los Angeles COST: $42-$50 INFO: boypablo.com

DT

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

22 DOWNTOWN NEWS

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Covered DINING California will help

Poppy + Rose waxes eloquently on fried chicken

By Frier McCollister LA Downtown News Contributing Writer traditional American foodie treasure will be honored with National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day on Tuesday, Nov. 9.

Downtown, there are plenty of options — from Howlin’ Ray’s in Far East Plaza to Lucky Bird at Grand Central Market. This year, get a whiff of something truly fresh at Poppy + Rose.

Chef Michael Reed and Kwini Reed are the talented and indefatigable co-owners of Poppy + Rose in the Flower District. The couple have weathered a dramatic year.

Although most Downtown restaurateurs can likely make a similar claim, the Reeds emerged as community activists in the dark days of the pandemic.

They helped create a support network for neighborhood businesses, while initiating and participating in feeding programs for the growing homeless population, extending into the district from nearby Skid Row. That didn’t stop them from opening their first dinner-service restaurant — Poppy + Seed — in Anaheim’s Packing District in February to positive reviews.

The prospect of rising to the challenge of National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day seems simple by comparison.

Those sandwiches are designed and served by Michael, a classically trained

A

graduate from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, and a veteran of kitchens specializing in haute cuisine.

“The fried chicken and waffles and our classic fried chicken sandwich have been on the menu for the past seven and a half years, since we opened,” Michael said. “Just recently we added the fried chicken and waffle sandwich, which is a brown butter waffle with our housemade hot sauce and a fried egg.”

Fried Chicken Sandwich Day at Poppy + Rose will be observed with the launch of Michael’s fried chicken Benedict sandwich.

He can wax eloquently on fried chicken’s allure.

“For me, it’s something that’s comforting,” he said.

“It’s crunchy. It’s savory. If you want it to be sweet, it can be sweet. For our fried chicken sandwich, it’s very simple.

It’s just really good fried chicken that actually has really good flavor. A crunchy exterior, a good brioche bun, aioli, our spicy house-made pickles. When you put those simple combinations together, it’s just one of those craveable, enjoyable dishes.”

Kwini added, “It goes well with everything. You can make all kinds of meals with fried chicken. It’s a pastime with me. I’ve been making fried chicken with my dad since I can remember. Everyone’s

National Fried Chicken Sandwich Day will be observed at Poppy + Rose with the launch of the waffle fried chicken sandwich featuring a sunny side egg, crispy frid chicken thigh, house hot sauce and maple syrup.

Photo courtesy of Poppy + Rose

fried chicken can taste differently and still be great. (With) fried chicken, you can put your own spin on it, your own little twist to it and make it good.”

So, what’s the twist at Poppy + Rose?

“There are two different things that really go into our fried chicken that we pay close attention to,” Michael said. “First off, it’s high-quality chicken, and then we basically brine that in buttermilk. So, most people could brine their chicken in a saltwater solution. We opt to brine it right in the buttermilk and we make sure it’s sitting there for at least 24 hours prior to actually using it.”

Why buttermilk? “It’s basically the acidity level of the buttermilk and the enzymes that are in there in the buttermilk,” Michael said.

“It helps with the tartness. Fried chicken can be greasy, but when you buttermilk it, it cuts down on that feeling of being greasy because you have the acidity, plus the enzymes that help tenderize the chicken, from sitting in the buttermilk long enough.

“The other top-secret part is the flour.

We have our signature spice blend that we put into our flour mix, and that’s what gives it that wonderful flavor.”

$3000 MODERN CHIC 3+2 LOS ANGELES APARTMENT Gate Building, Lndry on Site, New Paint, Parking 818-593-9060 kmc1999us@gmail.com

OCTOBER 25, 2021

In the meantime, as the pandemic dust slowly settles over their quiet precinct in the Flower District, the Reeds roll with the latest round of punches.

“We’re having the same issues that every other restaurant is having with staffing,” Kwini said.

“It seems, as a consensus, it’s not getting any better. And now we’re having to deal with checking vaccines.

“Actually, right now, to me it feels a little bit more challenging than when we were in the pandemic. Customers are a little different. There’s a lot happening at once. So, we are really suffering, as far as retaining people and keeping people (on staff ).”

The latest mandate for vaccination proof has added another challenge pitting staff against customers.

“You have this dynamic of the customer getting upset and lashing out at staff,” she said.

“A lot of times, the reason staff is in rotation is because they’re tired of being short staffed and they’re tired of customers being mean to them. It’s kind of this circle of effects.”

The latest roil of difficulty hasn’t dampened the Reeds’ engagement with their communities.

“We are still giving back to the community. We have a (food distribution) next week with the (nonprofit) Brown Bag Lady,” Michael said.

“We are starting to figure out how to put down our community-giving roots in Anaheim.”

They are planning a meal giveaway to local families in need, as the holidays approach in November. By the way, the latest news is the 2023 opening of Poppy + Rose West Harbor in San Pedro.

“We are working hard to make sure that we get back to being cohesive and back to what — I don’t want to use the word ‘normal’ — but just to operate in grace,” he said. “We all went through hell this past two years. We all had challenges. The motto now moving forward is ‘Blame it on my head and not my heart, and deal with people that way.’

“We’re grateful to be outside and be among each other. Happy that we still have places to eat and to congregate. And we’re appreciative of people who fought hard to stay on their two feet to make it through, so that we can be here to welcome you with open arms.”

Kwini and Michael Reed are the indefatigable co-owners of Poppy + Rose, a breakfast and lunch restaurant housed in the Flower District.

See us today, for a healthier tomorrow.

Eisner Health can help you find the right health plan.

Low cost, quality health care for the whole family, regardless of your ability to pay.

• Family care • Pediatrics • Prenatal

DOWNTOWN NEWS 23

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

• Dental • Optometry • Mental health

To make an appointment, please call (213) 401-0672

Photo courtesy of Poppy + Rose

POPPY + ROSE 765 Wall Street Los Angeles 213-995-7799 poppyandrosela.com

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

24 DOWNTOWN NEWS

OCTOBER 25, 2021

SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

■ CALIFORNIA AREA RESIDENTS CASH IN: Pictured above are protected Priority Packages containing the unsearched Vault Bags that everyone will be trying to get. It’s hard to tell how much these unsearched bags loaded with rarely seen Gov’t issued coins could be worth someday. That’s because each Vault Bag is known to contain nearly 3 pounds of Gov’t issued coins some dating back to the 1800’s including all those shown in today’s publication. In addition, after each bag is loaded with over 200 rarely seen coins, each verified to meet a minimum collector grade of very good or above, the dates and mint marks are never searched to determine collector values. So you better believe at just $980 these unsearched Vault Bags are a real steal.

Rarely seen United States coins up for grabs in California -zip codes determine who gets them Unsearched Vault Bags loaded with rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued coins some dating back to the 1800’s and worth up to 50 times their face value are actually being handed over to residents who find their zip code below and beat the 48 hour order deadline

CA RESIDENTS: IF YOU FIND YOUR ZIP CODE BELOW. CALL: 1-800-869-3164 UV31427 900 901 902 903 904

905 906 907 908 910

911 912 913 914 915

“The vaults at Federated Mint are going empty,” said Laura A. Lynne, U.S. Coin and Currency Director for Federated Mint.

T hat’s b ecause a decision

by Federated Mint to release rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued coins, some worth up to 50 times their face value, means unsearched Vault Bags loaded with U. S. Gov’t issued coins dating back to the 1800’s are now b ei n g h a nded over t o U.S. residents who find their

916 917 918 919 920

921 922 923 924 925

926 927 928 930 931

z ip co de l i s t e d i n t o d ay ’s publication.

“But don’t thank the G over n ment . A s U. S . Coi n a nd Cu r renc y D i rect or for Federated Mint, I get pa id to i n for m a nd educate the general public regarding U.S. coins. Ever since the decision

by Federated Mint to release rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued coins to the general public — I’m being asked how much are the u nsea rched Vau lt Ba gs

932 933 934 935 936

937 938 939 940 941

942 943 944 945 946

worth? The answer is, there’s no way to tell. Coin va lues always fluctuate and there are never any guarantees, but we do know this. Each unsearched bag weighs nearly 3 pounds and is known to contain rarely seen Morga n Silver Dolla rs and these coins alone could be worth $40 - $325 in collector value each according to The Off icia l Red Book, a Guide Book of United States Coins.

So there’s no telling what you’ll

947 948 949 950 951

952 953 954 955 956

957 958 959 960 961

find until you search through all the coins. But you better b el ieve at ju st $ 980 the s e unsearched Vault Bags are a steal, “said Lynne.

“These are not ordinary coins you find in your pocket change.

These are rarely seen silver, scarce, collectible and noncirculating U.S. coins dating back to the 1800’s so we won’t be surprised if thousands of U.S. residents claim as many R1054R-1

(Continued on next page)

OCTOBER 25, 2021

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

DOWNTOWN NEWS 25

SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT ISSUED COINS SEALED IN EACH BAG:

Silver Morgan Dollar 1878-1921

Silver Liberty Head 1892-1915

■ UNSEARCHED: Pictured above are the unsearched Vault Bags being handed over to California residents who call the National Toll-Free Hotline before the 48-hour deadline ends. And here’s the best part. Each Vault Bag is loaded with over 200 U.S. Gov’t issued coins, including all the coins pictured in today’s publication, some dating back to the 1800’s and worth up to 50 times their face value. Each coin is verified to meet a minimum collector grade of very good or above before the bags are securely sealed and the dates and mint marks are never searched by Federated Mint to determine collector value. If you find your zip code listed, call 1-800-869-3164 EXT.UV31427 immediately.

(Continued from previous page)

Silver Walking Liberty 1916-1947

Silver Peace Dollar 1921-1935

Silver Ben Franklin 1948-1963

as they can get their hands on. That’s because after the bags were loaded with nearly 3 pounds of U.S. Gov’t issued coins, each verif ied to meet a m in imum collector g rade quality of very good or above, the dates and mint marks were never searched to determine collector values and the bags were secu rely sea led. That means there’s no telling what you’ll find until you search all the coins,” said Lynne.

The only thing U.S. residents who find their zip code printed in today’s publication need to do is call the National TollFree Hotline before the 48-hour deadline ends.

This is very important. After the Vault Bags were loaded with over 200 of U.S. Gov’t issued coins, each verif ied to meet a m in imum collector g rade quality of very good or above, the dates and mint marks were never searched to determine collector va lues. The Vau lt Bag fee has been set for $1,500 for residents who miss the 48hour deadline, but for those

U.S. residents who beat the 48hour deadline the Vault Bag fee is just $980 as long as they call the National Toll-Free Hotline before the deadline ends.

“Remember this, we cannot stop collectors from buying up all the unsearched bags of coins they can get in this special advertising announcement. And you better believe with each bag being loaded with nearly 3 pounds of U.S. Gov’t issued coins we’re guessing they’re going to go quick,” said Lynne.

The phone lines w ill be ringing off the hook beginning at precisely 8:30 a .m . th is m o r n i n g . T h a t ’s b e c a u s e each unsea rched Vault Bag is loaded with the rarely seen coins pictured left and highly sought after collector coins dating clear back to the 1800’s including iconic Morgan Silver Dollars, a historic Peace Silver Dollar, stunning Silver Walking Liber ty Half Dollars, the collectible Silver Eisenhower Dol la r s , sp ec t acu la r Si lver Liberty Head Half and Quarter Dol la rs , ra rely seen Si lver Fra nklin Ha lf Dolla rs, high

dema nd P resident Ken nedy Silver Half Dollars, beautiful Silver Standing Liberty Q u a r t er Dol la r s , A mer ica n Bicentennia l Qua r ters, ra re Liber ty V Nickels, one cent Historic Wheat Coins including 1943 “Steel Cents”, one of the beautiful Winged Liberty Head Dimes, scarce Indian Head one cent U.S. coins and the last ever minted Buffalo Nickels. “ With a ll these collectible U.S. Gov’t Issued coins up for grabs we’re going to do our best to answer all the calls,” said Lynne.

Thousands of U.S. residents sta nd to m iss the dead line t o c l a i m t h e U. S . G o v ’ t i s s u e d c o i n s . T h at m e a n s U.S. residents who find their z ip co de l i s t e d i n t o d ay ’s p u b l i c at i on c a n c l a i m t h e unsearched bags of money for themselves and keep all the U.S. Gov’t issued coins found inside.

If you f ind your zip code listed, call 1-800-869-3164 EXT. UV31427 immediately. Just be sure to call before the deadline ends 48 hours from today’s publication date. ■

FEDERATED MINT, LLC IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH THE U.S. MINT, THE U.S. GOVERNMENT, A BANK OR ANY GOVERNMENT AGENCY. IF FOR ANY REASON WITHIN 30 DAYS FROM SHIPMENT YOU ARE DISSATISFIED, RETURN THE PRODUCT FOR A REFUND LESS SHIPPING AND RETURN POSTAGE. THIS SAME OFFER MAY BE MADE AVAILABLE AT A LATER DATE OR IN A DIFFERENT GEOGRAPHICAL LOCATION. OH RESIDENTS ADD 6.5% SALES TAX. FEDERATED MINT, PO BOX 1200, MASSILLON, OH 44648 ©2021 FEDERATED MINT R1054R-1

DT

26 DOWNTOWN NEWS

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

OCTOBER 25, 2021

Covered California will help BUSINESS

Andy Park named LA Ernst & Young managing partner

By Andres de Ocampo LA Downtown News Staff Writer rnst & Young named Andy Park as its new Los Angeles office managing partner, a position in which he will oversee 2,300 professionals.

Park will drive growth and advance the firm’s inclusive, people-focused culture.

With offices worldwide, Ernst & Young is one of the Big Four accounting firms. Dating back to the early 20th century, Ernst & Young provides, among other services, audits, financial accounting, tax, consulting and business risk.

As the son of Korean parents who immigrated to the United States in the 1970s, Park said his new role with Ernst & Youth is a prime opportunity for him. Park was the first in his family to attend college and joined Ernst & Young in 2005.

“It’s a tremendous honor to have this role,” Park said. “Given the fact that Los Angeles is one of the most diverse cities in the world, I hope that my assignment as office managing partner allows everyone who comes from a diverse background or immigrant parents (to feel) encouraged and motivated and (make sure they) are able to set high standards for their professional development in their careers.”

Park served as a tax partner with Ernst & Young, before being appointed as LA office managing partner. The new role, he added, will not interfere with his role as tax partner.

Patrick Niemann worked as the LA office managing partner for 10 years before Park.

“The leadership (in this role) may have changed, but our commitment to our city and our clients has not,” Park said. “Nothing has changed as far as how we serve our clients and how we prioritize our people and clients.”

Park is heavily invested in creating a community and a common goal with Ernst & Young professionals in Los Angeles.

“What I plan to do is listen to our people, listen to our clients and hear what’s important to them and gather that insight and perspective,” Park said.

“Then I will focus on doing things together. This is about what we are going to do together for all of our people here in LA and what we will accomplish together.”

The Ernst & Young Los Angeles office recently celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2020, which makes the firm a long-standing presence in Los Angeles; however, the pandemic and a shift into a “new normal” presents a welcome challenge for Park and other EY professionals.

“Challenge to us means opportunity,” Park said. “We have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to evolve and question the entrenched work habits that we created before the pandemic. We’re going to find new ways of working with and serving our clients.

“We were able to successfully demonstrate, as an organization, that our people can successfully work remotely. Even before the pandemic, we’ve always had a flexible culture where we allowed people to work in a way that makes sense to them.”

Alluding to how to solve the shift back to the workplace, Park said, “The pandemic really solidified that our flexibility works. As we do come back, we’re going to question what ‘normal’ means and allow our people to be successful in their (work).

“Our No. 1 priority is the health of our people. We want to make sure that they feel safe, protected and supported. If that means working in a flexible arrangement, then we will push for that.”

Diversity and inclusivity are key components for Ernst & Young and for Park as he assumes his new role.

“I now represent the 23,000 professionals at EY in Los Angeles. It’s important for me to set the tone of inclusivity and belonging, as I believe that tone is set at the top,” Park said.

“At EY, we believe by embracing diversity it not only makes us better but will help us serve our clients better. It’s not only diversity in cultures and backgrounds. It’s diversity in thought and leadership skills and all the above. There’s no better time to be

E

Andy Park is Ernst & Young’s new LA office managing partner. He is focused on building the LA branch back from the pandemic, while creating a common goal for his team to serve clientele.

Photo courtesy of Ernst & Young

a leader and lead our team here in LA.” Park attributed diversity and inclusivity as one of factors that helped Ernst & Young’s long-term success. “At EY, diversity, equity and inclusion are at the core of what we do,” he said.

“It’s essential to creating long-term value and fulfilling our purpose of building a better working world. We embrace diversity, and we’re committed to ensuring that all our people feel like they belong, they are accepted and supported.

“I believe that feeling supported and accepted starts with being able to look up at your leadership team and being able to relate to them.”

Park’s plans are primarily people focused, and he hopes to bring Ernst & Young professionals together by listening to them and creating a common goal.

“My priority is our people and our clients. I want to accomplish things together. I want to be on the same page and have a common goal that all of us are striving for,” Park said.

“I’ve been spending a lot of time with our team members and listening to them because by creating a collective goal, it’s going to become more meaningful and impactful. I want to focus on our office culture and give our people our platform to connect with me and our clients.”

Park emphasized his excitement for what the future holds in his new role and his readiness to tackle challenges presented during the pandemic.

“I am so excited for this change, and I think our people here at EY are excited, too,” he said. “We’re looking forward to coming back to what we used to call ‘normal’ and what that looks like now. We’re excited to take on this challenge and focus on what we’ve been doing for the past 100 years, which is prioritizing our clients and doing what’s right by them.”

OCTOBER 25, 2021

DT

Covered California will help FEATURE Downtown’s Halloween festival returns with spookier, safer bash

By Jordan Houston Los Angeles Downtown News Staff Writer owntown Center Business Improvement District’s annual Halloween DTLA Festival for Kids has returned to its old haunting ways after paring down its operations to meet COVID-19 safety guidelines.

The spooktacular event, hosted in conjunction with the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, will take place rain or shine from 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 31, at the Grand Hope Park at 919 S. Grand Avenue. The organizations are inviting more than 750 local children and their families to celebrate the spirit of Halloween in a safe and family-friendly environment, complete with food and drink, character interactions and, of course, trick-or-treating through a safely spaced candy trail.

The entrance will be located at Grand Avenue, while the last admission is slated for 7:30 p.m., according to the Downtown Center.

Because the annual event morphed into a drive-thru setup last year due to pandemic-related health standards, Downtown Center Business Improvement District President and CEO Suzanne Holley said she is looking forward to welcoming the kiddos and their families back more than ever.

“People are so happy to connect with other people right now, so I think we are going to see plenty of folks there,” she said. “I think people are ready. We’re going to be very safe and responsible.”

Visitors can expect to showcase their best costumes while perusing the new and socially distanced trail — but they won’t be alone. Princesses, pirates, witches, ghouls and comic book heroes will also be joining in on the fun for character meet and greets. The festival features “a ton of decorations” and “mini activations,” including interactive puppet shows and mystifying magic shows.

Volunteers will hand out plenty of sweets, goodies and popcorn, Holley explained.

Hot dogs will also be available for dinner.

The family-friendly event is the perfect opportunity for community members to reconnect and create lasting memories until next Halloween, Holley expressed.

“It is such a gratifying experience,” she said. “Often, entire families will get dressed up in themed costumes, and the kids are so happy. You can tell the parents are very comfortable in that environment and it’s just a safe environment.”

The Downtown Center kick-started the festival 14 years ago to provide Downtown kids the quintessential Halloween experience, the president explained.

“We have a lot of residential buildings, and we have a lot of office buildings, but there are no traditional neighborhoods where you can go door-to-door trick-or-treating,” she noted, emphasizing the 80,000 Downtown Los Angeles residents and pre-COVID-19 working population of 500,000.

The organization strives to offer its community members the “opportunity to have that traditional Halloween experience.”

The Downtown Center Business Improvement District is a coalition of nearly 2,000 property owners dedicated to advancing the Downtown area’s evolution into a “vibrant 24/7 neighborhood.”

It “helps the 65-block central business district achieve its full potential as a great place to live, work and play,” the Downtown Center website continues.

“I believe in downtowns,” Holley said. “I know it’s a hard time right now, but I think at the end of the day, all of the things downtowns have to offer — so much in one place — is something that, eventually, people will come back to.”

And the Halloween Festival seeks to do just that.

While there will be a few tweaks to this year’s event, including recommendations for social distancing and mask-wearing, the opportunities for fun and food will remain, Holley assured.

“I don’t think the user experience will be any less exciting than it has been in the past,” she shared. “Kids get very excited about all of the people dressed up in costume — and these folks are like actors and they are in character. It’s a very immersive experience.”

Although not required, the venue will be sporting signage encouraging face masks, Holley noted. Free masks will also be available on-site.

D

DOWNTOWN NEWS 27

DOWNTOWNNEWS.COM

BID Halloween Festival WHEN: 5 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 31 WHERE: Grand Hope Park, 919 S. Grand Avenue COST: $10 at the door; children 2 and younger are admitted free INFO: downtownla.com/halloween

DT

CLASSIFIEDS

LEGALS

28 DOWNTOWN NEWS

TWITTER: @ DOWNTOWNNEWS

OCTOBER 25, 2021