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Covered California will help OPINION
Victim blaming is not just for women By Ellen Snortland LA Downtown News Contributing Writer ay no attention to the man behind the curtain!” The Wizard of Oz maintained his ruse for far too long. Eventually, he is revealed to be the fraud that he is by Toto, a scrappy little cairn terrier and Dorothy’s best friend. A whole lot of us have been Totos over the past few decades. It used to be that we female-identified types could be tricked into thinking that we caused our own rapes and assaults, aka victim blaming. The rapists and assailants hid behind a curtain hung by society. The curtain is made of traditional rules about acceptable or not acceptable feminine appearance, behavior and activities. If a man raped a woman because she was wearing a short skirt, was drinking and was in a parking lot (think “Thelma and Louise” or “The Accused”), she was fair game and “asking for it.” “Pay no attention to my pants around my ankles, my punch to her face, my hatred…” The rapist justifies his violence by cruelly deflecting responsibility for his actions. Sadly, the “she made me do it; it’s her fault” dodge is still in play. However, #MeToo brought the reality for women into the forefront more than anything I can think of in my decades of feminist activism. The rapist and rapist alone is responsible for rape; to argue otherwise is to infantilize men and uphold vicious misogyny. Victim blaming also happens in families. In the 1980s, codependency started to receive a lot of attention. Authors and thinkers like Melodie Beattie and John Bradshaw illuminated the dysfunctional families that victimized truth tellers in the family. I know because I was one of those truth tellers, effectively being gaslit by my parents and sisters. “Pay no attention to mommy upset all the time, daddy mostly absent, sister being a fall-down drunk…” As the youngest, I often saw things that everyone else was in denial about. I was often told that I was too dramatic, blowing things out of proportion or outright lying. It took years of attending Landmark and 12-Step programs, reading and therapy to sort out what was actually going on. I realized that in the family, as in so many other places, the best defense is a rigid offense: “No, you are not seeing what you’re seeing.” What small person can defend themselves and their position when it’s the tallest people in the house who are telling them that they’re crazy? Now I’ve projected these “man behind the curtain” examples onto the climate crisis. For my own well-being, I am publicly declaring that no matter how many bottles and cans I recycle, how much I walk instead of drive, how many gallons of water I conserve, we are all affected by outdated, ineffective policies that generate waste and degrade our environment. Please don’t hear this like I’m going to stop doing the “little things”; I will continue doing them. That said, the actual problem here is greed and laissez-faire capitalism. I think there is an economic system that can work, but it hasn’t been invented yet. “Pay no attention to deregulation, chemical dumping, oil company pillaging, and on and on…” Hey, everyone! Cut back, do your part, pitch in… while the Wizard wraps himself in the curtain to cover up the constant assault. Hey, if the Earth didn’t want to be ravished, Mother Earth shouldn’t have worn so many tempting resources, right? It’s her fault! The list I have of mind-boggling facts and follies is too long to list here. Don’t these CEOs and corporate board members of the uber-wealthy 1% have offspring and grandkids who can hold their feet to the fire? My parents’ generation of Republicans would be mortified if they knew the degree to which ex-Soviet era hackers and oligarchs work re-
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Los Angeles Downtown News PO Box 1349 South Pasadena, CA 91031 213-481-1448
lentlessly to undermine the United States. Where are the stockholder demonstrations? Where’s the outrage? Where’s the disinvestment from oil, similar to the disinvestment movement we saw toward apartheid South Africa? OK, here’s a fact for you: New, significant studies from credible sources show that “natural” gas inside homes causes air pollution at much higher rates than outside! Decades ago, marketing flacks got the word “natural” tacked onto indoor gas as a way to deflect consumer worries about possible side effects. “Pay no attention to how the oil and gas industry doesn’t care one whit about you and your family’s health…” In our home, the only action we can take right now is to get a more efficient vent hood to draw out the fumes. If we had buckets of disposable income, we’d switch to an induction range pronto. Yet lobbyists are still working to keep their shareholders “cooking with gas.” Not a cheery commentary, is it? On the upside, I am comforted by the Ending Gender-Based Violence community, which I’ve been a member of for decades. They successfully re-contextualized attack victims to attack survivors. I hope we, victims of corporate and societal greed, can survive these coming decades. Please have your Totos pull back as many curtains as possible. Do it now. Ellen Snortland has written commentary for decades. She also teaches creative writing and can be reached at ellen@authorbitebybite.com.
OPINION
EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Christina Fuoco-Karasinski STAFF WRITERS: Andrew Checchia, Andres De Ocampo, Julia Shapero CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Sara Edwards, Kamala Kirk ART DIRECTORS: Arman Olivares, Stephanie Torres STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER: Luis Chavez CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS: Myriam Santos Downtown News wants to hear from people in the community. If you like or dislike ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Catherine Holloway, Michael Lamb a story, letFOUNDER us know, or weigh in Laris on something you feel is important to the community. EMERITUS: Sue
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EXECUTIVE EDITOR: Christina Fuoco-Karasinski CONTRIBUTING WRITERS: Sara Edwards, Frier McCollister, Bridgette M. Redman, Ellen Snortland, Claire Spinner ART DIRECTORS: Arman Olivares, Stephanie Torres STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER: Luis Chavez CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER: Peter Leal ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Catherine Holloway (213) 308-2261 Michael Lamb (213) 453-3548 FOUNDER EMERITUS: Sue Laris
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Covered NEWS California will help
Hotel Figueroa still embraces its feminist roots by partnering and featuring female artists, business owners and leaders, while also serving as a symbol of aid for the community. Photo courtesy of Hotel Figueroa
Hotel Figueroa celebrating 95 years By Sara Edwards LA Downtown News Contributing Writer raveling alone as a woman in 1926 came with a number of risks, from physical danger and social ridicule to the possibility of being denied lodging unless a man accompanied her as a chaperone. Maude N. Bouldin wanted to change that. She was a rule breaker who flew airplanes, rode motorcycles, and was always challenging gender norms that prevented women from achieving their dreams and goals. She wanted to change this narrative, interrupt the male-dominated hospitality industry, and create a hotel that was a safe space for women who were travelling alone without fear of being denied or harmed. She became the first female hotel manager in America when she opened the historic Hotel Figueroa in Downtown Los Angeles with the YWCA on Aug. 14, 1926, to be that safe haven for solo female travelers and to give women a place to live life untethered. This year, the hotel is celebrating 95 years of empowering women, creating change and calling for progress with new summer and fall programming and events.
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Over nearly a century, the hotel has survived a number of historic events, from the Great Depression and World War II to the coronavirus pandemic. It has always served as a symbol for women and Downtown LA of strong female leadership with thriving art and social activism. To this day, the historic hotel with its signature neon sign and unique coffin-shaped pool still embraces its feminist roots by partnering and featuring female artists, business owners and leaders, while also serving as a symbol of aid for the community. The staff and founders held rallies fighting social and political issues like racism and sexism while opening coffee shops and restaurants where women’s ideas could thrive. During the pandemic, the hotel housed firefighters fighting nearby wildfires and other first responders who needed a palace to stay. The hotel also served as a polling place for the November 2020 election. Connie Wang, Hotel Figueroa’s managing director, said with staycations becoming more popular because of the pandemic, she wanted to promote selfcare, health and wellness in celebratory programming to create a getaway feeling without having to travel far.
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Wang said she and the hotel staff view staycations as a way of helping their guests invest in themselves by having an experience that allows people to rejuvenate. “People are really looking to just get out of the house,” she said. “So we wanted to create this venue that could be a community hub in a nontraditional way.” Hotel Figueroa kicked off celebrations on Aug. 15, National Relaxation Day, by transforming one of its deluxe suites into a fitness and relaxation “zen den” to help promote well-rested sleep after a year of ruined sleep schedules and stresses of working from home. The hotel’s new Rest and Recovery Suite is fitted with all the wellness amenities to help guests rest and recharge during their stay without having to leave their room. The hotel partnered with Pluto Pillow, a woman-founded business in Downtown LA that was recently shown on “Shark Tank,” to customize pillows that will be ready for guests upon arrival. Guests will also be able to take the pillows home after their stay is over. Hotel Figueroa also offers the suite’s guests an in-room workout and cooldown equipment, like a FORME exercise mirror and Hyperice muscle massagers. Along with a pro-relaxation suite, the Figueroa also has a new Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired two-story villa and cocktail lounge called La Casita with an organic, ingredient-forward menu including items like ceviche classico and grilled shrimp tacos that can be paired with handcrafted cocktails. The all-day eatery Cafe Fig is also being relaunched to feature classic recipes that use natural ingredients and Mediterranean, Southwest and Continental influences. “The celebration is more about coming out of the pandemic and knowing we are stronger at the end of it,” Wang said. “We’re celebrating not only this achievement for us but for the whole Downtown LA community.” One of Wang’s favorite parts of the anniversary celebrations and hotel revamp is the hotel’s 2021 Featured Artist Series with critically acclaimed artist Shyama Golden’s collection “The Portal.” “She decided to partner with us to create a unique suite,” Wang said. “Guests can have an immersive experience created by her with this theme of reconnecting with nature.” The Figueroa Suite has been outfitted with Golden’s art and plants of her choice to help guests relax and reconnect with nature during their experience. The room will have living plants, trellises and other amenities to help bring the artistic elements to life. “Staycations are what our guests are really looking for, so we wanted to be able to take that to the next level, and we’re happy to be part of that self-care journey,” Wang said. The hospitality industry was hit hard during the pandemic. Hotels especially had to configure the way they operated when the country was shutting down. Wang said Figueroa not only had to change the way the hotel operated but it was also concerned about helping community businesses around them. Without a specific roadmap on how to navigate operating a hotel during the pandemic, the hotel still wanted to continue helping surrounding businesses and the community. “We were brainstorming not only how to keep our hotel family and guests together but also how to help community members stay engaged with us throughout the pandemic,” she said. “We basically went back to our roots at the end of the day by partnering with a number of women-owned businesses Downtown to band together and help one another.” The Bridge Mind Body Movement is one of these local businesses. The Pilates studio had to temporarily close because classes were only offered indoors. In collaboration with the hotel, Bridge Mind Body started teaching classes on the terrace of the Figueroa with enough space to social distance and safely offer classes. “I feel that sometimes crises have a way of bringing people together, and I’ve really seen the best of people throughout the pandemic,” Wang said. “I think that’s definitely something to celebrate.” The Hotel Figueroa is only five years shy of reaching a century of being in business, and Wang said the hotel isn’t anywhere close to slowing down. She said that in the future the hotel wants to start honoring women who are trailblazers in their respective fields. The plans for this award are not definitive yet, but Wang said the hotel would most likely name a suite after the award winner, with proceeds from that room being donated to a charity of the winner’s choice. “I think that’s really our next step for solidifying the legacy of this hotel, is to continue to support people who are pushing to be the best and break through barriers,” she said. “We just want to keep supporting the amazing people that are in our community.” For more information, visit hotelfigueroa.com.
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Maude N. Bouldin was Hotel Figueroa’s first hotel manager, and Chester C. Ashley was chapter president of the YWCA. Photo courtesy of Hotel Figueroa
The hotel’s 2021 Featured Artist Series features critically acclaimed artist Shyama Golden’s collection “The Portal.” Photo courtesy of Hotel Figueroa
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Covered California will help PHOTO PAGE
Jose Arroyo, left, and Naome Carrillo wait for the Dodger Dreamfield to open.
Nichol Whiteman is the CEO of the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation. Photo by Luis Chavez
Photo by Luis Chavez
Dodgers Dreamfield event By LA Dodgers Dreamfield LA Downtown News Contributing Writer
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he office of Councilmember Gil Cedillo dedicated the Dodgers Dreamfield and Youth Job Center/Teen Center Renovation Project on Aug. 21 at William Mead Homes, 1300 Cardinal Street, Los Angeles. The Dodgers Dreamfield is a state-of-the-art facility. Youth will enjoy a complete field makeover that includes fencing, windscreens, scoreboard, backstop and signage. The Outdoor Teen Center project will provide a safe, enjoyable space for teen members. Renovations include new flooring and paint, furniture upgrades, and other games and activities. CONTINUED ON PAGE 8
Conrado TerrazasCross represented the office of Gil Cedillo. Photo by Luis Chavez
JR Dzubak is the executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of West San Gabriel Valley.
Eric Brown is the director of intergovernmental affairs for HACLA. Photo by Luis Chavez
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Photo by Luis Chavez
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Covered California will help PHOTO PAGE DODGERS DREAMFIELD EVENT, 6
Pictured from left are Christy Frank, of Magical Builders, and JR Dzubak, chief executive officer of the Boys & Girls Clubs of San Gabriel Valley. Photo by Luis Chavez From left, JR Dzubak, executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of West San Gabriel Valley; Frank Sanchez from Boys & Girls Club of America; Eric Brown, director of intergovernmental affairs for HACLA; Lizeth Argueta, Boys & Girls Clubs of William Mead; Leo Mendivil, Boys & Girls Clubs of William Mead; Nichol Whiteman; chief executive officer, Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation; and Conrado TerrazasCross, representative for the office of Gil Cedillo.
Photo by Luis Chavez
Leo Mendivil, left, Andrew Vargas and Lina Vargas. Photo by Luis Chavez
Jose Mejia, Brandon Mejia and Jose Mejia. Photo by Luis Chavez
From left are Officer Jorge Zambrano, Becky Clapp from the Los Angeles Public Library Street Fleet, and Officers Elizabeth Ugarte and Elizabeth Southern.
Photo by Luis Chavez
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From left, Eric Brown, director of intergovernmental affairs for HACLA; Christy Frank with Magical Builders; Cielo Castro, chair of HACLA, with her children Adelina and Thomas Saucedo; Nichol Whiteman, chief executive officer of the Los Angeles Dodger Foundation; JR Dzubak, executive director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of West San Gabriel Valley; Ricardo Flores, senior field deputy for Councilmember Gil Cedillo; and Jon Chapper of the Los Angeles Dodgers accept certificates of recognition from the city of Los Angeles. Photo by Luis Chavez
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Cathedral High School brings the spirit of education to DTLA
Cathedral High School has been educating young men from throughout the greater Los Angeles area since 1925 on its North Broadway campus. (Photo courtesy of Cathedral High School)
By Cathedral High School Cathedral High School, in its partnership with the Archdiocese, alumni, and the business and civic communities of Los Angeles, is more successful than at any time in its history in providing its students with a quality Catholic college preparatory education. Cathedral High School has been educating young men from throughout the greater Los Angeles area since 1925 on its North Broadway campus. Through the dedicated work of the Christian Brothers and colleagues, Cathedral provides a human, religious and academic education for young men, within a Catholic community directed by the Spirit of Jesus Christ and the educational vision of Saint John Baptist de la Salle, who founded the Christian Brothers in France in 1680 to educate the working class and the poor. Through its academic programs, campus facilities, technology offerings, sports programs, visual and performing arts productions, and Christian service programs, Cathedral has made itself a school of choice for many young students. There is a great spirit of unity and belonging at Cathedral High School — something that is needed more than ever by young people. There is a great spirit of devotion to God and the Church amongst the students, and they are doing more to serve the poor in the community than at any time in the school’s history.
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Pilgrim is an urban school, safe haven
Lumbini Child Development Center is enrolling students, while following guidelines
“The mission of Pilgrim School is to nurture the mind, spirit and moral awareness of our students.”
By LA Downtown News Staff Lumbini Child Development Center opened its doors in 1977 with the notion of filling the need for day care in the downtown area. Forty-four years later, its philosophy remains the same. To provide a nurturing learning environment in which children can grow and develop with each passing year. The center is a year-round academics-based school that fosters socialization within the program to give children a well-rounded preschool experience. The classrooms are unique to each of the age groups. The curriculum used in each of its classrooms has been developed in creative ways to make learning fun and exciting by teachers who have been with the school for 15 + years. For more information, visit lumbinLumbini Child Development Center proicdc.org, email lumbini.missleslie@ vides a nurturing learning environment in gmail.com, or phone 213-680-2976. which children can grow and develop. The preschool is located at 505 E. (Photo courtesy of Lumbini Child Third Street, Los Angeles. Development Center)
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Pilgrim School students and faculty are back on campus. (Photo courtesy of Pilgrim School)
By Pilgrim School Pilgrim School is an extraordinary independent school located in the heart of one of the largest and most diverse cities in the country. Small class sizes and devoted faculty ensure every child is supported to become their best self. The caring and 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” their 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 every student has the chance to experience any academic area that interests them. Our “everybody plays” and 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, a confident and caring individual. Visit us at pilgrim-school.org to find out about our fall open houses.
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Lumbini Child Development Center
Licensed to care for children 2 ½ through Kindergarten. Year-round program with individual classrooms unique to each age group. Established in 1977, our philosophy remains the same. To provide a nurturing learning/social environment in which the children can grow and develop with each passing year. Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 7:30a.m.- 6:00 p.m. For more information: Email: Lumbini.missleslie@gmail.com Address: Higashi Honganji Buddhist Temple 505 East 3rd Street, Los Angeles, 90013 Phone: Miss Leslie @ 213 680-2976
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Covered DINING California will help
Mexico meets Peru at Little Llama on Main Street
By Frier McCollister LA Downtown News Contributing Writer
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Little Llama was founded by general manager Angela Wagner and executive chef Jean Valcarcel. Photo by Luis Chavez
The seared ahi tuna tostada Nikkei is piled high with aji amarillo crema, avocado, scallion salsa, pickled red onions and cilantro ($13).
eruvian cuisine is having an extended moment in the greater Los Angeles dining scene. From Mikaza Downtown to Chifa in Eagle Rock and Bodegon 69 in Pasadena, various interpretations of Peruvian culinary traditions have sprouted recently. Chef Jean Valcarcel and partner Angela Wagner continue the tradition with a twist of fusion. Their Little Llama Peruvian Tacos is a newcomer to Downtown, having just opened in October. But Little Llama’s brick-and-mortar opening represents just the latest turn for Valcarcel and Wagner. They successfully incubated their novel taco concept during an extended five-year residency at Smorgasburg, the Sunday food festival that was revived on July 4. Valcarcel was born and raised in Peru. He grew up cooking with his grandmother. “I lived with her from the age of 3 to 8 in Lambayeque, which is a little rural town in northern Peru,” Valcarcel said. “She was vegetarian, and we couldn’t find tofu anywhere. You had to go to the big city to buy it, so we would have to make it. We would make tofu from scratch. We would essentially plan our whole day — while school was out — around the meals we would cook for breakfast, lunch and dinner. It was a really fun time.” He moved to the United States as a teenager and studied music in Seattle before moving to Los Angeles in 2002. While working as a bartender, he was developing his interest in food, and he enrolled in the culinary program at LA Trade Technical College. He met Wagner while they were working at chef Ricardo Zarate’s Peruvian restaurant Mo Chica at Mercado la Paloma, near the USC campus. They were working front of house, but Valcarcel had kitchen ambitions. “I had already started at culinary school,” Valcarel said. “I spoke to the chef, Ricardo, to give me an opportunity in the kitchen. Most people go from the back of the kitchen to the front, not from the front to the back. He was a little surprised, but I was given a chance, and I worked under him for a little over a year in the kitchen.” Wagner was an art school graduate with a creative background and interests. When Valcarcel launched an underground supper club — Re Creo — he drafted Wagner to help. “(Re Creo) was still small when I started,” Wagner said. “Jean was doing it out of his loft, 12-person capacity. It started getting bigger. I took on more of the marketing and branding and hosting. We were able to create a community around it. That’s what I really enjoyed about it. Instead of creating art, I started focusing more on creating experience. It became a culinary performance art experiment, which was really fun.” Valcarcel added, “It was really cool. There were no rules. I kind of miss it to be honest. I would like to bring it back in some new iteration.” Wagner said the supper club led to the taco concept. “Whenever Jean wove Peruvian ingredients into the dishes and menu, people were super excited,” Wagner added. “The pair was interested in developing a more accessibly affordable concept for the food. Jean started to think of a way to introduce the Peruvian flavors and the cooking to everyone.” The dishes had fine dining touches but were sold at a reasonable price point, all the while accessible to anyone. “I love tacos. Peruvian food is amazing,” Valcarcel said. “I wanted to share that. I wanted to put those two things together. That was how Little Llama Tacos was born. After passing their Smorgasburg audition and confirming their guests’ enthusiasm for the fusion tacos, a successful five-year run ensued at the Sunday event. The notion of opening a restaurant and expanding into other markets was always on the agenda. “We started looking for places. It happened that all the pieces came together right before the pandemic hit,” Valcarcel said. The pair signed a lease on the Main Street location in November 2019. Construction began with a projected April opening, when the lockdown arrived in March. “Angela and I had never opened a restaurant that was ours,” he said. “On top of everyCONTINUED ON PAGE 14
Photo by Luis Chavez
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MEXICO MEETS PERU AT LITTLE LLAMA ON MAIN STREET, 12
Arroz con pollo burrito is stuffed with beer and aji panca pepper-marinated chicken, cilantro rice, huancaina sauce and pickled red onions. ($12) Photo by Luis Chavez
From left, lomo saltado taco with garlic and ginger-marinated certified Angus steak; pomegranate glazed pork belly taco and papa a la huancaina taco.
Photo by Luis Chavez
The vegetarian/gluten-free elote has charred corn, aji amarillo corn, jalapeno and cotija ($6).
thing else, it was a terrifying experience because we didn’t really know what we didn’t know at all.” Wagner added, “Everything kept getting more complicated. Every time we felt we had something figured out, something changed.” Valcarcel said they needed to make it happen — no matter what. “There was no choice but to see it through and do it well,” he said. The proof is in his tacos. They are the inevitable menu destination here, although burritos and tostadas heaped with ceviche are also worthy options. Ceviche is the national dish of Peru. It’s a style distinct from Mexican or Central American renditions, which tend to have a shorter marination time. It also evokes the generational Japanese Nikkei culture of Peru. Although Valcarcel’s fusion of Mexican influences is central to Little Llama’s concept, traditional Peruvian ingredients and flavor profiles are inherent in each dish. The initial list of tostadas on the menu demonstrates this aptly. Seared ahi tuna Nikkei ($13) is served with aji amarillo crema, avocado and scallion salsa and topped with pickled red onion and cilantro. There’s also a shrimp ceviche tostada ($11.50) with chunks of mango and cumin guacamole. The tortillas are fresh pressed on-site from organic corn in a 6-inch diameter format. The lomo saltado taco ($6) is an ode to the Peruvian beef dish. A fresh tortilla is stuffed with certified Angus beef marinated in ginger and garlic before grilling. Smashed Yukon Gold potatoes stand in for French fries, and it’s all dressed with a citrusy tomato escabeche and huacatay aioli. The pollo al a braza taco ($5) is a tribute to the classic Peruvian roast chicken dish. The chicken is steeped in a marinade of aji panca pepper and beer before roasting. Smashed potatoes, pickled red onion and green huancaina sauce provide the traditional finish. The pomegranate-glazed pork belly taco ($5) is a bit more of an original departure. The roasted and glazed pork is matched with fresh corn polenta, cotija cheese and a scattering of pomegranate seeds. For those guests eschewing animal protein, there are options. The papa a la huancaina ($4.50) is unlike any other potato taco in town. Here, the smashed potatoes are treated with an amarillo and feta cheese sauce, a slice of boiled egg and black olive powder and topped with a sprinkle of cotija cheese. The shiitake saltado ($6) swaps in marinated mushrooms for the beef in an otherwise classic treatment. The beef saltado, chicken a la braza and shiitake preps are also available in generous burrito portions ($12 to $14). The burritos use garlic and herb flour tortillas and include the additional stuffing of fried cilantro rice. Notable side dishes here include blackened broccoli ($5.50) with pepita and cilantro pesto and crunchy quinoa; elote ($6), charred sweet corn dressed with aji amarillo crema, chopped jalapenos and cotija cheese; and fresh corn polenta ($5) with cotija cheese and pomegranate seeds. On the beverage menu, there are three traditional Peruvian refrescos ($4), including the deep purple, corn-infused chicha morada as well as Inca cola ($3). There are a dozen craft beers, as well as a house michelada referred to as a “spicy umami-bomb” ($11) of peppers, tomatoes, lime and herbs infused with Peruvian Cusquena lager. There are three canned wines from West + Wilder vineyards ($9.50) and two white and two red wines available by the glass or bottle. There’s also a Colibri rosé ($8) on tap, by the glass. With any of these options enjoyed on one of the restaurant’s two outdoor shaded patios, a satisfying and relaxed repast is all but guaranteed. “What we’re aiming for is to provide old-world normalcy,” Wagner said. “It’s a pleasant, happy environment. We can get back to sharing meals with friends and hopefully amazing experiences with food you’ve never tried before.” Valcarcel is adamant about the experience at Little Llama Peruvian Tacos. “I’m really proud of the food but also the design of the space. We did that ourselves. We have two beautiful patios. It’s a really welcoming and bright and fun space to match the food, which is inventive and flavorful. What I would say to the Downtown community is, ‘Come have some tacos.’”
Little Llama Peruvian Tacos 222 S. Main Street, Los Angeles 213-372-5630, littlellamatacos.com
Photo by Luis Chavez
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How to help your child safely transition to in-person learning at Los Angeles Unified By Los Angeles Unified School District cross the Los Angeles Unified School District, campuses are abuzz with the shuffle of shoes and backpacks – students rushing to get to school, greet friends, teachers, principals, coaches and other school staff.
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As always, the early morning catches parents busy dropping off their children at school gates and offering last-minute dos and don’ts. This time, however, they’ll provide extra precautionary instructions for wearing and keeping their masks on during the school day and following other COVID protocols, beginning with 3 easy questions about COVID exposure meant to keep them and their school community safe. The school day begins several hours before each student arrives on campus. This means that this year, after being away from campus for more than 15 months, students will require added support in the home. Here are three simple, but critical steps you can take to make sure that your child will have a smooth transition to campus, stay safe, be successful, and enjoy the new school experience. • Elevate the Hero – No matter the grade level, let your children know that they are heroes when they wear their masks, because by doing this they are protecting themselves and those around them. They are saving lives. • Be a Role Model – As parents, and our children’s first teachers, we have a unique opportunity to serve as role models. At this critical time, the best lesson we can teach is one of personal and community responsibility by doing our part to stop the spread of COVID. You can protect all children and increase safety on campus by vaccinating all eligible members of your household. • Be a Safety Ambassador – Spread the word, be a safety ambassador in your home and at school. While it’s true that Los Angeles Unified has the highest COVID safety standards and protocols in place of any school district in the country, we can’t do this work alone. We need parents and staff to partner with us and help spread the word about school district resources aimed at ensuring families stay safe and informed as we transition to full-day in-person learning. For more information, you can call the Los Angeles Unified Family Hotline (213) 443-1300, and visit the Los Angeles Unified website at: https://achieve.lausd.net/backtoschool ADVERTORIAL
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Covered California will help BUSINESS
2021 Q2 Market Report highlights
Residential • 89.5% occupancy rate for apartments; 4.6% increase YOY. • $3.14 PSF average for apartments; 1.3% increase YOY. • $2,611 average effective rent per unit; 2.8% increase YOY.
The Apple Tower Theater was opened in the second quarter of 2021, according to the Downtown Center Business Improvement District. Submitted photo
DTLA’s recovery holding steady behind robust residential market By LA Downtown News Staff
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he Downtown Los Angeles economy, long reliant upon its substantial office market, is showing signs of recovery due in large part to its growing and passionate residential population, according to the Downtown Center Business Improvement District’s (DCBID) 2021 Q2 Downtown LA Market Report. In the absence of the area’s office workers and visitors, DTLA’s permanent residents, estimated at more than 80,000, stayed committed to the neighborhood in support of their local merchants. According to the report, the DTLA residential occupancy rate is up 4.6% from the year ago quarter and at 89.5% has already surpassed pre-pandemic levels. Residential rental rates continued their climb and are up 1.3% to $3.14 per square foot. The population continues to attract leading businesses and retailers, the most recent evidence of which was the second-quarter opening of the new Apple Store in the historic and restored Tower Theater. The extraordinary resilience of the residential market has provided DTLA’s other markets increased confidence and additional time to find their footing. In addition to the opening of Apple Tower Theater, the retail market saw second-quarter arrivals of Chicago’s Girl & the Goat restaurant and second DTLA locations for Shake Shack and Zankou Chicken. The Apple Tower Theater also brought the company’s new Today at Apple Creative Studios, a global initiative that provides hands-on experience and mentorship to young and often underrepresented creatives. Having been hit especially hard by the pandemic, the DTLA office and hospitality markets are beginning to show signs of recovery. The office market, despite a growing vacancy rate, experienced increased activity highlighted by Skadden’s lease renewal for 120,000 square feet at One Cal Plaza on Bunker Hill and SteelWave’s $80 million acquisition of The Switchyard creative office campus in the Arts District. And after 16 months of travel restrictions and social distancing mandates, DTLA’s hospitality market showed sustained signs of recovery, with a year-to-date RevPAR up to $55.20, up 35% from the year-ago quarter and the third straight quarter of growth. “While the report highlights real positive trends, there is still much to be regained, especially in the face of rising Delta variant cases,” said Suzanne Holley, president and CEO of the DCBID. “But DTLA has proven to be a very resilient market, weathering several economic cycles including the Great Recession. Our residents, retailers and workers have a passion for DTLA that we feel is unique and will benefit the area’s recovery.” Nick Griffith, DCBID executive director, added, “While our modest gains continue to build confidence in a sustained recovery, it is the enduring commitment that investors are showing that really demonstrates the drawing power and economic viability of DTLA. One look across the Downtown skyline and transformative projects can be found in every district.”
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Office • 18.7% office vacancy; 19% increase YOY. • $3.80 PSF Class A lease rate; 5.6% decrease YOY. • 1.2 million square feet YTD leasing activity; 9.1% increase YOY. Retail • 6.7% vacancy rate; 1.5% increase YOY. • $2.93 PSF lease rate; 2.7% decrease YOY. • 105,000 square feet net positive absorption. Hospitality • 41.6% YTD occupancy rate; 2.1% decrease YOY. • $150.34 YTD average daily rate; 22.8% decrease YOY. • $62.51 YTD average RevPAR; 24.5% decrease YOY. Notable projects under construction Arts District • 2130 Violet: Lowe’s 113,000-square-foot office project near Warner Music Group. • Ava Arts District: AvalonBay Communities’ seven-story apartment community featuring 475 apartments over 61,000 square feet of retail at Industrial and Alameda. • Produce LA: Continuum Partners and Platinum Equity’s 100,000-square-foot office building at Sixth and Santa Fe. Financial District • Eighth and Figueroa: Mitsui Fudosan’s 42-story apartment tower with 438 units and 7,500 square feet of retail. • 755 S. Figueroa: Brookfield’s 64-story apartment tower with 784 units adjacent to the FIGat7th shopping center. • citizenM Hotel : 11-story, 315-room hotel, being built with prefabricated modular units at Fourth and Spring. • The Grand LA: Related Companies’ $1 billion mixed-use development on Bunker Hill, across from the Walt Disney Concert Hall. South Park District • Fig+Pico: Lightstone Group’s 38-story tower containing 727 hotel rooms across from convention center in South Park. The full DCBID 2021 Q2 DTLA Market Report can be viewed at downtownla.com/MarketReportQ2_2021.
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Covered California will help ARTS & CULTURE
TRAX
By Bliss Bowen Pasadena Weekly Contributing Writer
SUZANNE SANTO, “Yard Sale” (Soundly Music):HHH½ Now based in Austin, the former Angeleno follows her 2017 solo debut “Ruby Red” with this compelling reward for fans waiting for her to take a break from playing in Hozier’s band. Centered around her mercurial, lightly raspy contralto, it weaves together Americana, rock, soul and R&B with guest support from fellow Austinites Gary Clark Jr. and Shakey Graves. Santo’s songs are bracing in the way a friend’s late-night confidences can be, tallying lessons learned, wonders discovered and relationships lost. “It gets so hard to see/ When my history’s standing in front of me,” she confesses on hooky single “Mercy.” Over fingerpicked guitar during the octave-spanning “Save for Love,” she counsels, “Hold yourself accountable/ Give that soul deep within you a voice like a parable.” Wise advice. suzannesanto.com DIVINE HORSEMEN, “Hot Rise of an Ice Cream Phoenix” (In the Red): HHH The lauded survivors of LA’s post-punk ’80s scene stay true to their eclectic legacy on their first collection of new material in 33 years. Chris Desjardins and Julie Christensen’s yin-yang vocal dynamic sets the tone, whether they’re swapping trenchant lines (“Livin’ in anticipation of things goin’ wrong/ It hasn’t happened yet but it won’t be long” from Tim Lee and Susan Bauer Lee’s “Any Day Now”), turning tender (their own “Barefoot in the Streets”) or psychedelic (Jefferson Airplane’s “Ice Cream Phoenix”), or throwing down jaunty challenges (Charley Cuva and Robert Downey Sr.’s resurrected “Can’t You See?”). The highlight’s Patti Smith and Ivan Kral’s “25th Floor,” recharged by guitarist Peter Andrus’ meaty riffs, powerhouse X drummer DJ Bonebrake, and bassist Bobby Permanent. divinehorsemen.com SOUTHERN AVENUE, “Be the Love You Want” (Renew Records/BMG): HHH A welcome return from the eclectic Memphis soul quintet. Produced by Los Lobos keyboardist/saxophonist Steve Berlin, the 12-track set benefits from smart, horn-buttoned arrangements and punches harder than 2019’s “Keep On” as it delivers stirring messages of uplift and affirmation composed mostly by dynamic frontwoman Tierinii Jackson and guitarist Ori Naftaly. Highlights include the harmony-bolstered anthems “Push Now” and “Move On,” the urgently funky “Move into the Light,” and swaying retro-tinged ballad “Fences.” southernavenuemusic.com OPIUM MOON, “Night + Day” (Six Degrees): HHH½ The transnational, Westside-based ensemble, which won a Grammy in 2019 for its self-titled debut album, returns with a double set of sensual, masterfully performed instrumentals exploring the duality of life and belief. Highlights include “When Their Wings,” a hypnotic dance between Lili Haydn’s violin, Itai Disraeli’s bass, Hamid Saeidi’s santoor and M.B. Gordy’s frame drum; “Opium Moon: Day,” which quotes Sufi poet Hafiz’s “She Responded” (an appropriate choice for a strife-filled age); the serpentine “Feast of Sevens”; and “Dream,” an invitation to dance audiences will likely accept with pleasure. opiummoon.com
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CA residents scramble to get last Walking Liberty Rolls CALIFORNIA - Once California residents got wind that California State Restricted Bank Rolls filled with Silver Walking Liberties dating back to the early 1900’s were being handed over, there was a mad dash to get them. That’s because some of these U.S. Gov’t issued silver coins are already worth hundreds in collector value. “It’s like a run on the banks. The phones are ringing off the hook. That’s because everyone is trying to get them before they’re all gone,” according to officials at the National Mint and Treasury who say they can barely keep up with all the orders. In fact, they had to impose a strict limit of 4 California State Restricted Bank Rolls. So, if you get the chance to get your hands on these State Restricted Bank Rolls you better hurry because hundreds of California residents already have and you don’t want to miss out. You see, the U.S. Gov’t stopped
minting these Silver Walking Liberties in 1947 and there can never be any more which makes them extremely collectible. And here’s the best part. The rolls are unsearched so there’s no telling how much they could be worth in collector value. That’s why at just the $39 state minimum set by National Mint and Treasury it’s a deal too good to pass up. But you better hurry because these California State Restricted Bank Rolls are the only ones known to exist and California residents are grabbing them up as fast as they can. That’s because they make amazing gifts for children, grandchildren and loved ones. Just imagine the look on their face when you hand them one of the State Restricted Rolls — they’ll tell everyone they know what you did for them.
■ GOT ‘EM: Residents all across California who get their hands on these State Restricted Silver Walking Liberty Bank Rolls are definitely showing them off. That’s because they are the only ones known to exist. And here’s the best part, these Bank Rolls are loaded with U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberty coins some dating back to the early 1900’s and worth up to 100 times their face value so everyone wants them.
Last State Restricted Silver Walking Liberty Bank Rolls go to California residents California residents get first dibs on last remaining Bank Rolls loaded with U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberties dating back to the early 1900’s some worth up to 100 times their face value for the next 2 days STATE DISTRIBUTION: A strict limit of 4 State Restricted Bank Rolls per CA resident has been imposed
CALIFORNIA - “It’s a miracle these State Restricted Bank Rolls even exist. That’s why Hotline Operators are bracing for the flood of calls,” said Laura Lynne, U.S. Coin and Currency Director for the National Mint and Treasury. For the next 2 days the last remaining State of California Restricted Bank Rolls loaded with rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberties are actually being handed over to California residents who call the State Toll-Free Hotlines listed in today’s newspaper publication. “I recently spoke with a numismatic expert in United States of America coins and currency who said ‘In all my years as a numismatist I’ve only ever seen a handful of these rarely seen Silver Walking Liberties issued by the U.S. Gov’t back in the early 1900’s. But to actually find them sealed away in State Restricted Bank Rolls still in pristine condition is like finding buried treasure. So anyone lucky enough to get their hands on these Bank Rolls had better hold on to them,’” Lynne said. “Now that the State of California Restricted Bank Rolls are being offered up we won’t be surprised if thousands
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SILVER: one of the last silver coins minted for circulation
VALUABLE: minted in philadelphia, denver & san francisco
ENLARGED TO SHOW DETAIL: year varies 1916-1947
RARELY SEEN: minted by the u.s. mint in the early 1900’s R1043R-2
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(Continued from previous page)
of California residents claim the maximum limit allowed of 4 Bank Rolls per resident before they’re all gone,” said Lynne. “That’s because after the Bank Rolls were loaded with 15 rarely seen Silver Walking Liberties, each verified to meet a minimum collector grade of very good or above, the dates and mint marks of the U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberty Half Dollars sealed away inside the State of California Restricted Bank Rolls have never been searched. But, we do know that some of these coins date clear back to the early 1900’s and are worth up to 100 times their face value, so there is no telling what California residents will find until they sort through all the coins,” Lynne went on to say. And here’s the best part. If you are a resident of the state of California you cover only the $39 per coin state minimum set by the National Mint and Treasury, that’s fifteen rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberties worth up to 100 times their face value for just $585 which is a real steal because non state residents must pay $118 per coin which totals $1,770 if any coins remain after the 2-day deadline. The only thing California residents need to do is call the State Toll-Free Hotlines printed in today’s newspaper publication before the 2-day order deadline ends. “Rarely seen U.S. Gov’t issued silver coins like these are highly sought after, but we’ve never seen anything like this before. According to The Official Red Book, a Guide Book of United States Coins many Silver Walking Liberty Half Dollars are now worth $40 - $825 each in collector value,” Lynne said. “We’re guessing thousands of California residents will be taking the maximum limit of 4 Bank Rolls because they make such amazing gifts for any occasion for children, parents, grandparents, friends and loved ones,” Lynne continued. “We know the phones will be ringing off the hook. That’s why hundreds of Hotline Operators are standing by to answer the phones beginning at 8:30 am this morning. We’re going to do our best, but with just 2 days to answer all the calls it won’t be easy. So make sure to tell everyone to keep calling if all lines are busy. We’ll do our best to answer them all.” Lynne said. The only thing readers of today’s newspaper publication need to do is make sure they are a resident of the state of California and call the National Toll-Free Hotlines before the 2-day deadline ends midnight tomorrow. ■
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HOW TO CLAIM THE LAST STATE RESTRICTED BANK ROLLS FACTS:
If you are a California State Resident read the important information below about claiming the State Silver Bank Rolls, then call the State Toll-Free Hotline at 8:30 am: 1-800-979-3771 EXT: RWB1789
Are these Silver Walking Liberties worth more than other half dollars:
Yes. These U.S. Gov’t issued Silver Walking Liberties were minted in the early 1900’s and will never be minted again. That makes them extremely collectible. The vast majority of half dollars minted after 1970 have no silver content at all and these Walking Liberties were one of the last silver coins minted for circulation. That’s why many of them now command hundreds in collector value so there’s no telling how much they could be worth in collector value someday.
How much are State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls worth:
It’s impossible to say, but some of these U.S Gov’t issued Walking Liberties dating back to the early 1900’s are worth up to 100 times the face value and there are 15 in each Bank Roll so you better hurry if you want to get your hands on them. Collector values always fluctuate and there are never any guarantees. But we do know they are the only California State Silver Bank Rolls known to exist and Walking Liberties are highly collectible so anyone lucky enough to get their hands on these Silver Bank Rolls should hold onto them because there’s no telling how much they could be worth in collector value someday.
Why are so many California residents claiming them:
Because they are the only State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls known to exist and everyone wants their share. Each Bank Roll contains a whopping 15 Silver Walking Liberties dating back to the early 1900’s some worth up to 100 times their face value. Best of all California residents are guaranteed to get them for the state minimum set by the National Mint and Treasury of just $39 per Silver Walking Liberty for the next two days.
How do I get the State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls:
California residents are authorized to claim up to the limit of 4 State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls by calling the State Toll Free Hotline at 1-800-979-3771 Ext. RWB1789 starting at precisely 8:30 am this morning. Everyone who does is getting the only State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Rolls known to exist. That’s a full Bank Roll containing 15 Silver Walking Liberties from the early 1900’s some worth up to 100 times their face value for just the state minimum set by the National Mint and Treasury of just $39 per Silver Walking Liberty, which is just $585 for the full Bank Rolls and that’s a real steal because non state residents are not permitted to call before 5 pm tomorrow and must pay $1,770 for each California State Restricted Walking Liberty Silver Bank Roll if any remain. R1043R-2
NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY, 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. NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY, PO BOX 35609, CANTON, OH 44735 ©2021 NATIONAL MINT AND TREASURY.
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Covered California will help ARTS & CULTURE
‘Beyond the Cut’ winner to open ROW DTLA store By Annika Tomlin LA Downtown News Staff Writer
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Andrea Pitter won the second season of Amazon Prime Video’s “Making the Cut,” which was filmed in Los Angeles. Photo courtesy of Amazon Studios
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ndrea Pitter started her career in the fashion industry as a bridal designer in New York 10 years ago. On Aug. 6, she won season two of Amazon Prime Video’s “Making the Cut,” which was filmed in Los Angeles during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I was really really excited (about being part of ‘Making the Cut’), and I was instantly kind of like, OK, I have to start thinking about how this is going to potentially change my life or get focused,” Pitter said. Pitter, who runs the bridal boutique Pantora, took the opportunity of being on the show to expand her brand to modern wear as well as high-end fashion pieces. Following the eight-episode second season, the finale came down to Pitter, Gary Graham and Andrea Salazar. Throughout the season it was clear who Pitter’s No. 1 competitor was. “Gary for sure, but I enjoyed that type of competition, because we are so different,” Pitter said. “We are so similar, too, which is interesting, but we are just different types of awkward. “I really enjoyed the type of competition that inspires me. I love to be able to watch other people’s zones of genius, and Gary was always in his zone, and it was really nice to compete alongside him.” Graham and Salazar won brand stores on Amazon as the second- and thirdplace winners, respectively. As the winner, Pitter received a mentorship, $1 million to expand her brand, two collections to be sold on Amazon, as well as a three-year lease for a brick-and-mortar storefront in ROW DTLA. “For so many years people have been asking how to find Pantora in LA or on the West Coast, so now I’m like, ‘Yes, come on, opportunities,’” Pitter said. “I’m really really pumped about being able to. I’m actually opening two stores at the ROW DTLA.” Pitter plans to open a store based on the fashion pieces shown within the show, as well as a separate bridal store that is a continuation of her store in Brooklyn, New York. “I think (the Pantora store) is going to be more of a pop-up vibe,” Pitter explained. “I want to be able to change the aesthetic regularly. “I think the cool thing about the way I won that store is kind of like the thing that I want to play a role in the actual vibe of that store. My New York store is a little bit different, but I want it to feel like people can pop in.” Her favorite assignment to cover on the show was the avant garde assignment in the fifth week. She had a “go big or go home” mentality, and she “literally” went big. “That one was my favorite, because I was able to kind of tap into my childhood and add my favorite moments, my favorite music videos playing, and moments of my family,” Pitter said. “I thought about the festivals and the carnivals that we got to attend. I thought about the Missy Elliott video. All of the things that were really really special about my childhood made it fun.” The most difficult part was the group assignment, for which she was paired with fellow designer Ally Ferguson. “Ally and I worked really really well together. It was just hard for me because I didn’t really love the results,” Pitter said. While filming in Los Angeles during the pandemic, Pitter felt that the entire group was “really well taken care of.” “I felt good that I didn’t have to cook any meals,” the married mom of one said. “Listen, I was almost living a life to a degree. Besides having to wake up early and go to sleep late, outside of that it was good.” After the final runway where each designer showed their final 10 looks, it all came down to a final interview with the judges where Pitter was announced as the winner. “I had a lot of emotions. I don’t know if I was able to have a reaction, because I fell right into tears,” Pitter said. “I was almost inconsolable to a degree. It was very,
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Andrea Pitter and models pose while wearing pieces from Pitter’s collection that is available on Amazon under the “Making the Cut” store. Photo courtesy of Amazon Studios
Andrea Pitter’s men’s look was shown in the season two finale runway for “Making the Cut.” Photo courtesy of Amazon Studios
very emotional.” Co-host Tim Gunn gave her a slightly used handkerchief that she kept a hold of the entire night because “the tears didn’t even stop when we were done filming,” according to Pitter. Her husband, son, sister and mother video chatted directly following her win. “I felt validated, and I don’t always love to fall into the validation track,” Pitter said. “I like to have the feel-good vibes come from me, but it felt really nice for the judges to feel the way they did about the work that I produced.” Of co-host Heidi Klum, designer Jeremy Scott and supermodel Winnie Harlow, Pitter was quick to call Klum the most difficult judge. “Heidi was definitely the toughest judge, but I think she is also the one with the most experience as a judge, too,” Pitter said. “She was very, like, ‘on it.’ Heidi says what Heidi feels.” As she gets ready to open her stores in the coming weeks, Pitter remembers the lessons she learned during her time as part of “Making the Cut.” “One, don’t be afraid to assert yourself,” Pitter said. “Sometimes you have to speak up, even if it’s not going to be taken well. “I think for me it is sometimes one of the things you have to question whether you should be assertive, whether you stand up for people, and the answer is pretty much always ‘yes.’” Having learned from her experience, she suggests prospective designers do their research and intern. “Seek out opportunity, even if it doesn’t immediately feel like an opportunity,” Pitter said. “It’s OK to start small and grow into who you are.” Pitter’s collections are available on Amazon under the “Making the Cut” store, while the brick-and-mortar storefronts are set to open in the coming weeks.
Ten runway looks were created by Andrea Pitter for the finale episode of season two of “Making the Cut.” Photo courtesy of Amazon Studios
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Covered California will help ARTS & CULTURE Gary Numan created his 18th solo studio album, “Intruder,” as a way to speak on Earth’s behalf about its poor treatment with climate change and whatnot. Submitted photo
Gary Numan speaks for Earth’s destruction By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski LA Downtown News Executive Editor
G
ary Numan admits he’s insecure. Since scoring era-defining hits such as “Cars,” “When the World Comes Apart” and “Are ‘Friends’ Electric,” Numan has been hailed by music pioneers such as Prince, David Bowie and Nine Inch Nails, and Kanye West and Lady Gaga credit him as an influence. The electronic music godfather’s low self-esteem reared its head during the recording of his latest album, “Intruder.” “I don’t go out to the studio sort of brimming with confidence and thinking I’m God’s gift to music and everything’s great,” Numan said during a Zoom call. “I’m the opposite of that. I’m constantly worried. My confidence is fragile at best. It seems to be crumbled and at the edge all the time. I’m always fighting against my own self-doubt worries and anxieties.” Numan described recording an album as standing at the foot of a mountain and looking up. Each album, he said, feels a little bit steeper and taller than the one before. Numan plugged his way through it to produce what critics have called his best music. “Intruder” is Numan’s 18th solo studio album and follows 2017’s “Savage: Songs from a Broken World,” which became his highest-charting set in almost 40 years when it debuted at No. 2 on the UK’s official albums chart. “Intruder” was recorded between sessions at Numan’s home studio in Los Angeles and at producer Ade Fenton’s studio in Bath, England. It was their fifth studio album together.
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A concept album, “Intruder” sees Numan speaking on behalf of Earth about its poor treatment, with climate change and whatnot, and identifying humans as the problem. “When COVID came along, in a sort of really tragic way, obviously it just fed straight into that,” Numan said. “Maybe COVID is one of these ways that the Earth is fighting back.” Numan said he’s very excited about “Intruder,” which was released in late May. His tour in support of it comes to the Fonda Theatre on Friday, Sept. 17. “It was something really interesting to explore and something I hadn’t really thought about a great deal before,” he said. “It was a really interesting thing to do. The idea wasn’t even mine, though. If I’m truthful, the idea actually came from my younger daughter’s (Echo). When she just turned 12, she wrote a poem a few years ago about the Earth speaking to other planets, explaining why it was sad and how horrible people were and all these terrible things that they would do to it.” Numan said it was impressive for his “brilliant” young daughter to come up with this theme. “She was such an important part of the whole idea coming together that when you open it, I put her poem on the sleeve. My other two children sing on it as well. Persia and Raven sing on a handful of the songs on the album. “It’s very much a family affair,” he said. Although he and his wife, Gemma, have three daughters who are musical, Numan doesn’t listen to music much. “It does bother me a little bit,” he said. “I feel like I should be more involved or I should be more aware of what’s going on. “The children are massive music fans, and they keep me up to date. My wife, Gemma, is a music listener. I don’t think I’ve sat down and listened to an album for pleasure.” Numan has a theory about this. He spends so much time making music and performing it that when he’s not touring, he wants to get away from it. “When I listen to music, it’s difficult not to analyze it and try to figure out; for example, how they got that drum sound,” he said. “If it’s brilliant, you feel envious and you feel inferior. If it isn’t, you feel annoyed because, gosh, they could have done better than me. Music has also changed over the years. When I was younger, listening to music was one of my biggest sources of entertainment and pleasure. I just lost myself for hours every night. I’m living the dream now, so it’s different.”
Gary Numan: The Intruder Tour w/Speak Machine WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 17 WHERE: Fonda Theatre, 6126 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles COST: $40 INFO: 323-464-6269, fordtheatre.com
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Tomer Peretz Brings Depth and Raw Emotion to Downtown Los Angeles
By Danielle Casilio Walking into Ouro Gallery, located at 211 S Broadway, you are immediately welcomed into a world of contrasts. The space is rugged - once serving as a textile factory, with exposed steel beams and exposed brick walls. Elegant canvas paintings are mixed with graffiti-style street art and conceptual installations like re-finished wooden palettes and a hot pink shopping cart. This is Ouro Gallery, the creation of Los Angeles-based Israeli conceptual artist Tomer Peretz. Who is Tomer Peretz? Tomer Peretz moved to Los Angeles 17 years ago. An artist since he was a child growing up in Jerusalem, moving to America allowed Peretz to fully express his talents and find inspiration. His work spans across different mediums, including oil and acrylic paintings and contemporary installations. Currently, he is represented by Giancarlo Pedrazzini in the ‘Fabbrica Eos’ gallery in Milan, Italy, and his artwork has been exhibited in galleries throughout the United States, Israel, Central America and Europe. Speaking with Tomer, it is clear that his perspective on the world around us is unique. He is curious about the world and urges us to re-think the issues we face as a society, or just as human beings. He isn’t saying all of this with his words - that’s what the art is for. The art tells a controversial story about our culture and the forces behind it. The exhibit currently being showcased at Ouro Gallery entitled ‘Welcome To America’ in fact says all of this quite loudly.
Welcome To America The first time I visited the gallery was during the live showing of the ‘Welcome To America’ exhibit. The space is very DTLA, filled with expensive art and beautiful people. A harpist plays in the background as we purchase $20 cocktails. No one bats an eye, because this is Los Angeles and we are in an art gallery, of course. Experiencing the first floor of the gallery gave visitors a sense of status. I am here with the wealthy, with the trendy, with the important. Along one side of the gallery were canvas paintings - portraits mostly. Detailed and striking, some were incomplete to allow you to focus on the part of the image you were intended to see - the part that held the most emotion, perhaps. Across the exhibit, along the opposite wall, were 6 re-finished wooden pallets. Each came with a hefty price tag, upsetting most viewers. One woman next to me sneered in disgust as she read the price aloud. Emotional responses to wood pallets? Fascinating. Next, we were ushered into the next part of the exhibit. Working our way up the four flights of stairs, we came across a man. A homeless man. A crazy homeless man, talking to himself and surrounded by garbage. Nobody from the exhibit seemed to notice him, but everyone in my group began shifting uncomfortably. Why is this person here and why wasn’t security doing anything about it? Enter into the 8000 square foot space, and your senses seem unable to adjust to what’s happening. The lighting is dim, the air is thick and hot, it smells like garbage, and it is quiet except for a few distinct noises - the crying out of homeless people, and the bleating of live sheep. All around you are tents, suitcases, mattresses and dirty old furniture. By now you start to realize that this is the exhibit, the 20+ homeless people are in fact actors, and your emotions are part of it as well. The art that Tomer displayed in this section of the gallery was a bit different from the first section. Old framed pieces that had been found in thrift stores were spackled with cement, and tagged with graffiti messages that told you the story behind the exhibit. Art dealers crowded around the ex-
Tomer Peretz is at Ouro Gallery DTLA
Tomer Peretz at Ouro gallery, in front of his “Incomplete” series
Photo by Gabriel Ervin
Photo by Casey Reynolds
pensive pieces, pushing sales and disregarding the disgust that lay behind them. However, the true art form showcased was Peretz’ ability to use installations such as a barbed-wire enclosed student working in solitude, CRT televisions, and old newspapers boasting headlines that tell the story of a nation. What’s next for Ouro? Although the live exhibit is currently not showing, Peretz notes that it will be back at a later date. Since the closing of the live exhibit, Ouro Gallery is continuing to bring artists and creative thinkers together in a collaborative way. Regularly hosting tattoo artists, there is an underground vibe within the space. Tomer boasts a warm and welcoming energy, making the gallery feel like home to everyone. Ouro Gallery brings vibrancy to Downtown Los Angeles. A perspective on American culture that is subtle and well-thought out, instead of raging and sporadic, the emotional depth of the gallery is sure to attract critical thinkers and art lovers alike. IG @TOMERPERETZART @OUROGALLERY EMAIL: OUROGALLERY@GMAIL.COM
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