EDITORIAL
EXECUTIVE
DEPUTY
CONTRIBUTORS
M. Redman, Ellen Snortland, Summer Aguirre
Torres storres@timespublications.com
PHOTOGRAPHER
IVerbal verbotens
By Ellen Snortland Pasadena Weekly Columnist
MHO, Americans need all sorts of etiquette lessons these days. Let’s start with how we communicate.
Lesson No. 1: Clarity — do not assume people know what your acronym means
Use complete phrases instead of acronyms until you know that you and your listener or reader have a shared acronym vocabulary. For example, using IMHO, “In My Humble Opinion,” is a minor verbal misdemeanor. This kind of “shorthand” happens in business cultures or any culture that uses acronyms; however, unconsciously assuming everyone knows what you’re talking about is a good way to lose listeners. United Nations people are notorious for using esoteric combinations of abbreviations.
Lesson No. 2: Diseases — refrain from sharing your ideas about said illness
For goodness’ sake, when someone tells you about their disease or condition, please don’t launch into how your Aunt Pauline died of that very same malady. Or how you’ve heard that colloidal silver cures it. Or your viewpoint of what caused it in the first place. Didn’t your parents tell you that was rude? Or maybe they did it themselves.
My late friend Robin had a T-shirt created that read: “Kindly refrain from telling me about your relative’s cancer or any sentences that begin with ‘Have you tried (fill in the blank)?’ or ‘You should try (fill in the blank)!’” These manners extend to the loved ones of the afflicted person, who also don’t want to hear your opinions, suggestions or prescriptions.
Most people I know dealing with a serious illness have left no stone unturned regarding their treatment before landing on a treatment plan involving a professional or someone they entrust with their most intimate details. If they go the alternative medicine route, they really do not want your unsolicited ideas about what they “should” do instead. Unless the person specifically asks you a direct question like, “What do you think I should do about my disease?”, zip it.
Lesson No. 3: Food — refrain from giving me your food opinions, and I will refrain from giving you mine!
Is it just in California, or do people in other parts of the country feel compelled to lecture a meal companion about how bad (fill in the blank) is for you? I call a personal foul: off-limits!
For instance, don’t tell me about a lame-brained “study” you found on the web about Splenda. I have done my own research and have proof that the sugar industry planted fears about artificial sweeteners, primarily with bogus studies they paid for. Follow the money!
Who stands to profit from terrifying people about artificial sweeteners? Huge food conglomerates? Corn farmers? (Corn syrup is as bad as sugar — or worse) Big Sugar? Yes, I used the term Big Sugar because there’s a lot of evidence that the sugar industry is as corrupt as the Big Tobacco cabal was. (For more on that, read the eye-opening 1972 book “Pure, White and Deadly” by John Yudkin.) Did you like reading this screed? Probably not. Nor do I want to hear anyone scold me about what I put in my mouth. Just. Stop. It.
Lesson No. 4: One-upping — don’t play ‘Top This,’ OK?
We were at a New Year’s Eve party when a woman with cleavage so white and deep that I thought I was looking at a white plumber’s butt sat down to chat. A friend introduced me to Ms. Plunging Neckline; let’s call her “Liz.” My friend was effusively discussing me and my achievements. Liz responded by saying, “What a pleasure to meet such an accomplished person. But I’ll bet you can’t top this: I’ve ridden a bull. Have you?”
“No,” I said, “but I’ve castrated a few calves.” The men in the group laughed and covered their groins. The women checked their own tops for décolletage comparisons and laughed heartily at my comeback. I smiled.
Hey, grow up on a ranch and you’ve probably done a few things that aren’t generally mentioned in mixed company.
Don’t play “Top This” with people you’ve just met, or it’s a good bet they will make a beeline for someone else. Liz should have stopped while she was ahead, before she challenged me with the bull. She had already “topped” all of us with her chest, which she knew stopped traffic.
Lesson No. 5: Circumspection — be careful about what comes out of your mouth
We once saw a woman wearing a T-shirt that said, “Be careful what you say. You may end up in my novel.” I want one that warns, “You may end up in my column.” Anything you say and do can be used. Hey, where do you think writers get their ideas? Is this a verbal manners violation? Not in my world!
The moral of these lessons might be remembering to ask yourself, “Is what this person has told me or what she’s doing any of my business?” If the honest answer is “no,” then nip it. Or, if you know someone who is a chronic unsolicited advice giver, clip this column and send it to them… you’re welcome!.
Ellen Snortland has written this column for decades and also teaches creative writing. She can be reached at ellen@beautybitesbeast.com. Her award-winning film “Beauty Bites Beast” is available for download or streaming at vimeo.com/ondemand/beautybitesbeast.
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Sierra Madre and South Pasadena
• FAB 4th •
AmericaFest brings West Coast’s largest fireworks show
By Pasadena Weekly Staff
The Rose Bowl celebrates its 100th anniversary this year, but first it’s honoring America’s birthday with the 96th AmericaFest celebration.
Set for Monday, July 4, to Saturday, July 9, the event was shuttered in 2020 and host to go virtual during the COVID-19 pandemic. AmericaFest returned to in-person in 2021, adding a poignancy to last year’s events.
“We came back last year after one year of not being able to do in-person events, but with restrictions in place, masks, a decreased capacity,” said Meredith Thomas, the Rose Bowl Stadium communications director.
“So, for a venue that turns 100 (years old) this October, to celebrate America’s Birthday, in America’s stadium, in-person, following that, is just remarkable. To have guests come through our gates again is very special for us, it is not something we take for granted.”
AmericaFest will kick off with a 30-minute show by TNT Freestyle Motocross. Riders perform stunts and jumps in this Rose Bowl encore act.
Drake Milligan, who just appeared on “America’s Got Talent,” follows. (See related story.)
The evening’s events culminate in the largest, longest-running fireworks display on the West Coast, courtesy of Rialto-based Pyro Spectaculars by Souza. The company has been bringing firework displays to the Rose Bowl for the last 35 years.
Opened in October 1922, the Rose Bowl Stadium was designed by architect Myron Hunt, based on New Haven, Connecticut’s Yale Bowl.
The National Historic Landmark has played host to the annual college football showdown, The Rose Bowl, and the NFL’s Super Bowl in 1977, 1980, 1983, 1987 and 1993.
Musicians including Beyoncé, Coldplay, Pink Floyd, Stevie Wonder and The Rolling Stones have made appearances there. Previous years of AmericaFest saw acts such as soul singer Mendelyev, Maximo Marcuso and Michael Jackson tribute artist Michael Knight.
“The Rose Bowl Stadium is so iconic for many things, but the annual AmericaFest at the Rose Bowl is an event that brings all of Pasadena, and beyond, together,” said Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo in a statement.
Pasadena’s Independence Day festivities begin with AmericaFest and ends with the July 9 Palomino Festival, featuring the likes of Willie Nelson, Kacey Musgraves and Old Crow Medicine Show.
AmericaFest
WHEN: Various times Monday, July 4, to Saturday, July 9 WHERE: Rose Bowl Stadium, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena
COST: Tickets start at $20 for AmericaFest; $179 for Palomino Festival
INFO: 626-577-3100, rosebowlstadium.com, palominopasadena.com
DRAKE MILLIGAN
TIA SIMONE
ELLEE DUKE
Singer Drake Milligan ‘pumped’ to be back in Pasadena
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski Pasadena Weekly Executive Editor
Elvis-inspired country singer Drake Milligan was reintroduced to the world through his audition for “America’s Got Talent” at Pasadena Civic Auditorium.
This July 4, he returns to the City of Roses to celebrate Independence Day at the Rose Bowl.
“We’re bringing a lot of energy — and a lot of good country music, too,” Milligan said. “We’re really pumped to be playing a crowd of that size.”
The 24-year-old “American Idol” veteran easily won over the “America’s Got Talent” judges shortly after his June 1 birthday.
He performed an original, “Sounds like Something I’d Do,” from his 2021 self-titled EP. The move was a surprise because he is a well-known Elvis impersonator, and played “The King” in CMT’s “Sun Records.”
“I knew I wanted to go with something really upbeat with a lot of energy,” Milligan said about his “AGT” song choice.
“I close my shows with ‘Sounds like Something I’d Do.’ It’s such a rocker. I knew I couldn’t just go up there and sing a ballad, even though I love singing ballads. I would be even more nervous.”
So, he took that “nervous energy” and poured it into his song and performance. It paid off, but Milligan admitted he was shocked by the reaction of the judges and crowd to his self-penned song.
“I was worried what Simon would think,” he said about judge Simon Cowell. “He’s a tough crowd. It was really cool, to say the least. My music is based in traditional country. To see them react the way they did to my kind of music, it gives me a lot of hope not only as an artist, but a country music fan.”
He said on “America’s Got Talent” that he was used to stepping in front of crowds as “Elvis,” not as “Drake Milligan.”
“I know Elvis’ music like the back of my hand,” he said on “America’s Got Talent.”
“I love it but what I feel like is my calling is country music. I’m a country boy at heart. I haven’t stepped in front of too many people as myself. It’s always been this kind of disguise as Elvis. Stepping in front of these celebrity judges is a really vulnerable side of me.”
Milligan — who saw a surge in his streaming numbers after the “AGT” appearance — started taking guitar lessons at age 5. He discovered Elvis and “then my whole world changed.”
“I didn’t quite know what I wanted to be at that point,” he said. “But I knew I could get up there, wear flashy clothes and sing songs. I’m still falling in love with his music every day.”
Besides Elvis, Milligan is inspired by Merle Haggard, George Jones and Roger Miller, right on through to big band and the “crooner stuff” like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.
Texas-born country singer Drake Milligan will perform at this year’s Rose Bowl Independence Day celebration.
“I do love all country music,” he added.
“I grew up listening to Kenny Chesney, Luke Bryan, Dierks Bentley and the newer singers. My mom and dad listen to a lot of old country music. Being in Texas, you’re submerged in a country music pool. It’s all around you. You can’t help but being around it.”
The then-19-year-old left Texas after pulling the plug on his “American Idol” run in 2018. He performed “You Look So Good in Love” by George Strait and earned a ticket to Hollywood from judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry and Luke Bryan.
“Been getting a lot of questions about no longer appearing on ‘American Idol,’ after my audition, just thought I’d let y’all know what’s goin’ on!” he wrote in Instagram.
“After my audition, I decided that I wasn’t quite ready for that platform yet, and that it would be a better step for me to move to Nashville and focus on my music first! It was a very tough decision, and it in no way reflects my experience during the audition process...Everyone on the show was very kind and I feel absolutely blessed and gracious to have been a part of it!”
In Music City, he dove headfirst into songwriting with the “old guard,” those who penned tunes for or with George Strait, Alan Jackson and Gary Allan.
“The Nashville songwriting community is a cycle,” he said.
“You have the new young guys who come in with fresh ideas, and then you have the older guard, who have been here for a long time and know how to craft those songs.”
They take fresh ideas and teach young writers how to turn a hit song, he explained.
“It was a lot at first,” he said. “The key is to be respectful of people’s time. Nashville has a small-town feel and within that, there’s a songwriting community.
“Everybody knows each other and is very respectful. People are really human in Nashville. People aren’t afraid to be themselves.”
This year, he’s bringing his original music across the country. He’ll fly to Pasadena from Detroit, where he’ll hit the stage at Tin Roof.
“I also have new music recorded,” he said enthusiastically. “I’m hoping it’ll be out pretty soon. I’ll be playing some of those songs for fans.”
Milligan’s music has been inspired by Elvis and the country songs of his childhood.
Valerie June honored to be part of Palomino
By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski Pasadena Weekly Executive Editor
Singer-songwriter Valerie June is looking forward to the July 9 Palomino Festival because, after all, “all we need is music, live music.”
“The quarantine wasn’t too bad,” she says. “I’m a loner. It was just me and my plants. I was in Tennessee for half, New York for the rest of it.”
She honed her musical skills during the pandemic to fulfill her need for music. All of this will be reflected in her Palomino set.
“I try to leave everyone levitating out the doors or off the stage,” June said.
“It’s very uplifting and hopefully fans feel deep emotions — like joyful — and use that joy as a positive form of activism.”
She said her “joyful” shows are exactly what fans—and the world— need these days.
“I really feel like so many artists are trying to do that and put that energy out there,” she said. “Every day we’re faced with more drama and all of us are tired of it. How do we create more joy and gentleness in our day? We’re figuring it out. I don’t have the answers.”
The Grammy-nominated singer is set to release “Under Cover,” an eight-song covers collection, on Friday, Aug. 26.
“Under Cover” features interpretations of Frank Ocean’s “Godspeed,” Joe South’s “Don’t It Make You Want to Go Home,” Gillian Welch’s “Look At Miss Ohio,” and Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds’ “Into My Arms.”
The EP also includes two tracks that appeared on June’s (digital-only) “The Moon and Stars: Prescriptions for Dreamers” deluxe edition, John Lennon’s “Imagine,” and Nick Drake’s “Pink Moon.”
Bob Dylan’s “Tonight I’ll Be Staying Here with You,” (previously available as an Amazon Original exclusive) and June’s previously released reading of Mazzy Star’s “Fade into You.”
“I didn’t think it was possible for me to even release one album,” she said. “The whole experience of being who I am now and doing what I’m doing is a dream fulfilled. It’s an example of how to manifest a dream.
“At this level, it’s quite something. I say to myself, ‘Where do I want to go from here?’ I try to live in a dream state all the time. Dreams are never totally fulfilled. There’s always another dream to fulfill.”
She’ll perform some of these songs at Palomino, an event she’s excited about.
“The whole lineup is amazing,” she said. “Charley Crockett, I haven’t seen him live yet. I haven’t seen Kacey Musgraves and she’s been huge for years. Being in the same space as Willie Nelson is great. I haven’t seen him perform for a long time. It’s a really nice event. I’m honored to be invited.”
Palomino Festival
WHEN: Noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, July 9
WHERE: Brookside at the Rose Bowl, 1001 Rose Bowl Drive, Pasadena
COST: General admission starts at $179 plus fees, while VIP passes are $399 plus fees
INFO: palominopasadena.com
Singer-songwriter Valerie June will infuse her Palomino set with the lessons and musical skills she learned during the pandemic. Renata
• PHOTO PAGE
Author Shawn Brown-Brumfield’s book, “The Purpose Driven School,” highlights methods to better reform schools.
Pasadena Divine Nine celebrates Juneteenth
In celebration of Juneteenth, which commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans, members of the Pasadena Divine Nine fraternities and sororities held a Greek Picnic on June 19 at Victory Park.
“Traditionally, our chapter has held our walk and picnic on Father’s Day, and Juneteenth falls on the same day as Father’s Day this year,” said Larry Quishenberry, basileus (president) of the Zeta Tau chapter of the Omega Psi Phi fraternity. “I thought it would be a great opportunity to invite the other members of the Divine Nine to join us for the walk and expand our celebration. The invitation was well received by all and here we are.”
The Juneteenth celebration brought together the nine historically black Greek letter organizations that make up the National Pan-Hellenic Council. Collectively, these organizations are referred to as “The Divine Nine,” and include the Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity, Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity, Omega Psi Phi fraternity, Delta Sigma Theta sorority, Phi Beta Sigma fraternity, Zeta Phi Beta sorority, Sigma Gamma Rho sorority and Iota Phi Theta fraternity.
The picnic featured music, food for sale from Rodney’s Ribs food truck, a health walk and booths by Black-owned businesses and Black authors. The Pasadena Police Department, Pasadena Fire Department and Pasadena Department of Public Health were also present for a meet and greet.
Dr. Khandi Reid, Bibliana Bovery, Neani Cobb-Phillips, Trudy Aldridge, Jackie Reid and Katherine Hunter-Blyden are alumni of Zeta Phi Beta, founded at Howard University in 1920.
Kieth D. Johnson, Dr. Ryeal Simms, Chapter President Dr. Stephen Rice and Ron Carter represented the Phi Beta Sigma fraternity at their booth during the Juneteenth celebration.
Courtney Truley hosted her first pop up stand for her essential oil brand “Truley Organics.”
Chris Mortenson/Staff Photographer
JULY 9 AT THE LA ARBORETUM
Michael Feinstein soloist
Larry Blank conductor
Michael puts down the baton for one night only to sing a concert devoted to Gershwin, delivering treasures from his personal archives with “Someone to Watch Over Me,” “I Got Rhythm,” “Embraceable You” and more.
• ARTS & CULTURE
‘Midsummer’ finds the magic in enslaved people
By Bridgette M. Redman Pasadena Weekly Contributing Writer
In Athens, there are a people who perform magic, manipulating the world around them while those in power either never see them or write them off as boorish, ignorant folk good only for their service and entertainment.
It’s the story of William Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” and director James Fowler is moving the Open Fist Theatre Company’s production to Athens, Georgia, in a pre-Civil War period where the fairies and mechanicals are enslaved people while Theseus is a judge and the people of Athens are white plantation owners.
The show will run at the Atwater Village Theatre until Saturday, Aug. 13.
It’s inspired by the line, “That would hang us every mother’s son,” spoken by Bottom, the weaver who is part of an acting company that will play before the wedding of Theseus and Hippolyta, rulers of Athens.
“I was stunned to discover how well this concept works with the text,” Fowler said. “It makes sense that the fairies, unseen to the lovers, are invisible to the plantation owners around them because they are enslaved. I imagine African slaves on the plantations as people who, despite horrendous hardship, carried magic. In this
production, we’re able to see their magic played out in the lives of the people around them who don’t ever see them.”
Fowler, who has directed and acted in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” said he’d been sitting with this concept for several years. During the pandemic, he did a virtual table reading and later approached Martha Demson, Open Fist’s artistic director, with the vision. Not only did she like it, but she wanted to put it up immediately.
In a very short time — less than a month, he, Demson and the company’s production manager put together a cast with Phillip C. Curry as Oberon, Ash Saunders as Titania, Monazia Smith as Puck, Michael A. Sheppered as Bottom, Debba Rofheart as Peter Quince, Malik Bailey as Mustardseed and Flute, Syanne Green as Peaseblossom and Starvling, Erica Mae McNeal as Cobweb and Snout, Azeem Vecchio as Moth and Snug, Bryan Bertone as Theseus, Heather Mitchell as Hippolyta, Alexander Wells as Egeus, Sandra Kate Burck as Hermia, Dylan Wittrock as Lysander, Anna-Laurie Rives and Ann Wilding alternating as Helena and Devon Armstrong and Nick Mizrahi alternating as Demetrius.
Fowler said that, as a person of color, he’s constantly thinking about how he can
Ash Saunders, Erica Mae McNeal, Phillip C. Curry, Azeem Vecchio and Syanne Green
fit himself into these worlds that he performs in, particularly Shakespeare where he is set in various time periods, cultures and strange locales. He wondered how this play would work in the world of the Antebellum South.
“I found as I was going through the text that there were harsh lines, like ‘Away, you Ethiop,’ and ‘Hang us every mother’s son,’ you start to see that these people in the original are invisible because they are fairies and they are magical creatures, you start to realize that these fairies can also be invisible in the world of the Antebellum South because the non-BIPOC people at the time didn’t see them,” Fowler said.
In this production, Theseus is a judge who has come in to take over another person’s plantation, which is where he encounters Hippolyta. Titania is the wet nurse for the changeling child of whom Oberon is so jealous.
Fowler promised that this version of “Midsummer” will be filled with magic. He said they researched the era and the kind of magic that was believed in. Puck moves people around, manipulates their bodies and makes them do what Puck wants them to do. Fowler gives her a whip which she can crack.
“You’ve got this image of an enslaved African who is able to lull these young white slavers — or not slavers — to sleep with the crack of a whip and go completely unseen while doing it,” Fowler said.
Oberon carries a sack around his neck, one used by people when picking cotton. But out of it comes magic. Rather than a purple flower used to force love, cotton carries the potion.
Titania is the most powerful sorceress among them, and her magic is carried out with special light and sound effects.
“I want us to look at this story and believe that enslaved peoples could do anything that anyone else could have done in any other world the show is set in,” Fowler said. It’s also why he has resisted the suggestion to dress the fairies in African masks or clothe them as traditional spirits or entities.
“I was in opposition to that because I felt it made the show more digestible for a wider audience,” Fowler said.
“That wasn’t my objective. Most of the people who lived in 1855 Athens, Georgia, who were of color would have been born in Georgia. They would have had no relation or connection to Africa in that way. I didn’t want to make it easier for us to digest or for us to believe. I wanted to ensure that we looked at enslaved people and believed that they can wield magic like anyone in anywhere else we set the play.”
He also infuses the mechanicals with all the humor that they are known for while allowing more serious elements to shine through. Peter Quince is a British abolitionist who teaches the other mechanicals how to read and encourages those who say they are slow of speech and cannot memorize many lines.
While much is the same, Fowler said there are new and scarier elements. When the mechanicals perform outside of town, they are clearly worried about being caught and the jumpiness about sounds also take on new meaning — these are a people who must be careful.
“We use the language to allow the audience to get into this world,” Fowler said.
As for the lovers, Hermia is a classic Southern belle while Demetrius is a young attorney who looks up to Theseus and wants to impress Egeus, Hermia’s father.
Fowler is working with scenic designer Jan Munroe, who has a great deal of familiarity with the South. Together, they established different worlds on stage. Elements include a slave lean-to with a wooden roof, a platform framed by pillars that indicate a plantation, and a painted mural with Spanish moss and a creek.
“We split the worlds where we have the enslaved African world on one side and another sort of world on the other side,” Fowler said. “We’re hanging Spanish moss from the grid and downstage we’ve got a lot of plants that bring us into the world before us. It really does give you that ‘Big River’ the musical feel.”
Audiences are invited to interpret themselves whether the events actually happened or if it was a dream. Fowler encourages theater goers to see a show that demonstrates clearly that inclusivity works in all forms of theater.
“We have this conversation in theater about honoring BIPOC peoples and stories,” Fowler said.
“I want to ensure that the audience realizes that we can keep telling these stories— there’s been this narrative of ‘burn it down.’ As somebody who has done tons of Shakespeare and tons of Ibsen and tons of Sam Shepherd and all kinds of different shows, I don’t want to burn it all down. I want to be included.
“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” by Open Fist Theatre Co.
WHEN: Various times Saturday, June 25, to Saturday, Aug. 13
WHERE: Atwater Village Theatre, 3269 Casitas Avenue, Los Angeles
COST: $25; $15 for students, seniors and veterans INFO: openfist.org
Devon Armstrong, Sandra Kate Burck, Phillip C. Curry and Monazia Smith
Justin Hoyt delivers multilayered songs
By Laura Latzko Pasadena Weekly Contributing Writer
By day, Justin Hoyt is a lawyer and adjunct law professor at USC Gould School of Law.
In his spare time, the Pasadena resident is the solo artist behind Seven Layer Piano Cakes.
Although he has taken breaks from music because of his busy career, it has been a part of Hoyt’s life since he was a child.
He recently released the single “Gumdrops,” a dreamy baroque pop song with new wave/synth elements. It has a nostalgic vibe that is meant to evoke memories of the TV show “Twin Peaks” and the music of the Beach Boys and Depeche Mode. The song tells the story of a hot-cold romantic relationship.
“Gumdrops” is the follow up to “Endgame,” which hit streaming services on April 1. The two songs are part of a chess-themed trilogy; the other piece is “Middlegame.”
“It has some dark moments, but it ends up providing closure for anyone who has been through it,” Hoyt said.
He recorded the single with Valerie Lohman, a Burbank artist who records under the name VRL.
The harmonies fit with the concept of a relationship that can at times be pleasant but is also troubled and fractured.
“(Her singing) provides a good complement in parts, and it provides a good contrast,” he said.
“That’s goes through the whole theme of a song. Sometimes, in a relationship or marriage, you’re aligned, and other times, you veer off. We tried to express that. Sometimes, we sang the same notes, and sometimes she diverges on some pretty gnarly harmonies.”
This was the first time that Hoyt had produced another artist’s vocals.
“Having to explain to a complete stranger the intimate details of your personal life, and what I was hoping she was thinking or feeling when she was singing certain lines, was quite the experience,” Hoyt said.
“It was almost harder than performing my end of the vocals because I’ve lived with the vocals and lyrics for a long time. Having to get it out of someone else in parts was really draining.”
While in the studio, he changed the song a bit and he said it worked out well.
“You have an idea of what she should be feeling or sounding like, but when you get to the actual studio, and you hear the first few tracks, then you realize you have other options to explore. Some of them are in alignment with what you envisioned and others you never would have expected, but you go with those,” Hoyt said.
Going forward, Hoyt hopes to write and produce more for other artists as well as for TV, movies and commercials. During the height of the pandemic, the artist stayed busy making music.
He released a piano and vocals EP called “Mood Swings” in September 2020, followed by the single “Kaleidoscope” in November 2020, his EP “The Patriarch” in January 2021 and his single “Middlegame” in April 2021.
“Middlegame,” which focuses on feelings of complacency experienced by the musician in his thirties, is the second in the chess trilogy.
The series started with “Novel Opening,” which was about the pandemic and featured chess references. This single appeared on the EP “The Patriarch.”
The project was inspired by the TV show “The Queen’s Gambit,” which tells the story of an orphan who shows an affinity for chess.
Hoyt said that the songs are connected, but also distinctive.
“If you listen to all three, it was clearly the same person, but they were three totally different songs,” Hoyt said.
“Endgame” is his second solo release in 2022. In February, he released the dreampop single “Remy,” about his son.
Hoyt has two kids, a daughter and a son. With his music, he hopes to inspire them to pursue their dreams.
“They are definitely a huge motivation. That is actually why I got back into it…I had put music aside for so long. I hate when life takes over so much, people refer to their hobbies as ‘I was a baseball player’ or ‘I was a musician.’ I thought it would be disingenuous to try and get my kids into music if I said, ‘Dad was a musician’,” Hoyt said.
Justin Hoyt and Valerie Lohman
Pasadena’s Justin Hoyt performs under the stage name “Seven Layer Piano Cakes.”
Continued from page 16
He said “Remy” is more intimate than many of his other songs.
“It’s definitely more personal and less poetic. I wrote down what I was feeling, and I feel like it’s 100% genuine, whereas ‘Middlegame’ and ‘Novel Opening’ are more cerebral,” Hoyt said.
The sing features creative instrumentation in the form of a vintage Wurlitzer, as well as the guitar and synth bass.
Hoyt worked on the single with Ian Stahl, a recording engineering, mixer and songwriter from Pasadena. They began collaborating in November 2020.
The artist originally planned to record another song, but neither he nor Stahl felt it was the right choice. This is what led to “Remy.”
“It was very natural. It flowed. Other songs take days or weeks from idea to final mix, but this one, it was just one of those great moments in the studio…The way I write is I start with chord progressions, bass and beat. And then a general sense of the vocal melody. That all came together pretty quickly. The lyrics were the easiest part to write because it’s about my son,” Hoyt said.
As an artist, Hoyt is inspired by the likes of The Beach Boys, Duran Duran, Depeche Mode, The Strokes, Muse and Beach House.
He believes that his diverse musical interests and background make him different from other artists.
“That’s why I’m doing this. I wouldn’t do this if I didn’t think I had something unique to offer… I like the challenge of blending all of the influences, even if it doesn’t sound like classical or metal. I like throwing stuff in there. I’m just trying to make something that’s respecting the good stuff that was done before,” Hoyt said.
Hoyt said that while his songs have a similar type of “dreamy” soundscape, they are all different.
“My goal is to write accessible songs melodically but throw in some interesting chord changes and some unusual melodies and harmonies…I try to toe the line between surf pop and surf rock most of the time, but it’s darker. I try to pay my respects to pop and rock at the same time,” Hoyt said.
The name Seven Layer Piano Cakes, which Hoyt started using in 2020, came from his hobby of baking cakes, which he wanted to connect with his music.
“All of my songs have either a piano, a keyboard or multiple synths in them. That’s the driving sound. They are all layered songs…I use a lot of seventh chords, so I was trying to come up with a name that was a double entrée. It’s silly, but each word has some significance,” Hoyt said.
Hoyt is classically trained and started on the piano at age 3, at his parents’ encouragement.
He stuck with it until 13, even though he hated it at the time.
As a teen, he switched to bass and guitar, started to sing and joined a few local rock bands.
He grew up in San Dimas and at age 14 and 15 drove to Pasadena to busk with his acoustic guitar off Colorado Boulevard.
“That was my earliest memories of performing this style of music. Instead of saving our earnings, we would blow it on a fancy dinner, but those were some of the best times of my life,” Hoyt said.
Although Hoyt received classical and musical theater training as a singer, his vocals tend to have more of a pop or rock edge.
Along with the bass, guitar and piano, Hoyt can play the drums well enough to write his own parts.
It wasn’t until he was in his twenties that he started to play the piano again and really began to appreciate it.
He attended the Juilliard School’s evening division for a time while living in New York.
During this time, he played open mic nights, where he did acoustic songs and covers.
With law degrees from USC Gould and Brooklyn Law School, he has written music sporadically throughout his life, including while attending and right after law school. Many of his recent songs are outgrowths of pieces he started back then.
The artist took some time off from music when he was establishing himself professionally in his career.
It wasn’t until the pandemic that he had more time to start playing and recording more consistently.
“I was always thinking about getting back into it, but the time was never right… When the pandemic started, I got to work from home. Instead of focusing on the pandemic and the negative parts of it, I decided to use the extra hour and a half I have in the day to do this,” Hoyt said.
Justin Hoyt/Seven Layer Piano Cakes Instagram and Facebook: @sevenlayerpianocakes
GENRE:
Magical Realism Fictional Memoir
GENRE:
Magical Realism Fictional Memoir
Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Words--read by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art
18+ audiences only
18+ audiences only
Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Wordsread by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art of surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly. As the story evolves, he discovers that he can, during flight, by way of olfactory engendered clairvoyance, accumulate and store internally essential love; eventually he is able to bestow this love. The following excerpts, inspired by the paintings of Edward Hopper, occur in the story when the protagonist is beginning to collect such essences of primal bliss.
Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Words--read by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art of surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly. As the story evolves, he discovers that he can, during flight, by way of olfactory engendered clairvoyance, accumulate and store internally
Excerpts from this novel--The Pollinator In His Own Words--read by the author, exemplify the intimate relationship between two art forms: painting and writing. The protagonist of this tale, through the mystic art of surfing, slowly develops the ability to fly. As the story evolves, he discovers that he can, during flight, by way of olfactory engendered clairvoyance, accumulate and store internally essential love; eventually he is able to bestow this love. The following excerpts, inspired by the paintings of Edward Hopper, occur in the story when the protagonist is beginning to collect such essences of primal bliss.
FIND EXCERPTS on YouTube
Since 1902 Sycamores has been helping children, young adults, adults and families develop the tools and determination to create a better life. Today the agency is a leader in behavioral health, providing care and support services to the most vulnerable children and families in Southern California.
West Walnut Street, Suite 375, Pasadena, CA 91124 (626) 395-7100 | www.sycamores.org
GENRE: Magical Realism Fictional Memoir
Rockers unite to support guitarist’s cancer fight
By Summer Aguirre Pasadena Weekly Staff Writer
While Go Betty Go guitarist Betty Cisneros puts her all into her battle with cancer, the rock community is rallying behind her with a special benefit concert.
Cisneros’ bandmates and musicians from across the country are leading an all-ages Benefit Show for Betty at 3 p.m. Sunday, July 3, at The Paramount in Los Angeles.
The guitarist was recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer.
“It’s bittersweet,” Go Betty Go drummer Aixa Vilar said.
“Obviously, we would have liked to do a regular show. But we are, including Betty herself, extremely appreciative of everybody coming together and just basically donating their time and the venue.”
B esides the show, a GoFundMe has been set up. Of its $50,000 goal, the site has collected $42,830. Visit bit.ly/GoFundMeBetty.
The selfless community behind Cisneros has lifted her spirits during her healing process. Vilar said the guitarist would be completely healed if “true love and support” could cure cancer.
The concert will feature former Go Betty Go singer Emily Valentine as a special guest, in addition to Two Tens guitarist Adam Bones filling in for Cisneros on guitar. Other special guests in the lineup include the Dollyrots, Johnny Madcap and the Distractions, Linh Le and Jennie Cotterill from Bad Cop / Bad Cop, and MC/hosts HazyChaos.
The punk rock quartet’s live set will feature the group’s most popular songs and some covers — specifically a Ramones tune, per Cisneros’ request. Le and Cotterill will perform an acoustic set.
“To say Betty’s part of our band family would be a huge understatement; we came up in the same scene in LA beginning almost 20 years ago,” the Dollyrots said in a statement.
“She’s ‘Tia Betty’ to our kids and also one of the most badass guitarists and songwriters out there. We’re here to support her in any way we can, knowing she’s one of the strongest women we know and will show cancer who’s boss.”
Go Betty Go is Cisneros; Vilar; bassist Michelle Rangel; and Vilar’s sister, vocalist Nicolette.
The musicians went to grade school together in Glendale; however, Vilar said it wasn’t until the end of high school that they were introduced by a mutual friend. They were jamming together shortly thereafter and made their debut in 2000.
With two Warped tours, regular cross-country tours, and an appearance at South by Southwest, the punk rock band swiftly went from playing local shows to performing for a national audience. Upon their rise, they were signed by indie label SideOneDummy, under which they released their debut album, “Worst Enemy,” in 2004.
Since then, Go Betty Go has been doing what they do best: rocking out for their fans across the globe.
When Cisneros received her cancer diagnosis, the group was in the recording studio working on new music. Vilar said their plans were subsequently “yanked from underneath,” but they didn’t think twice about putting their music on pause while the guitarist focused on her health.
Cisneros has had several rounds of chemotherapy and is expecting surgery. Despite these challenges, the band has faith that she will emerge victorious.
“We’re just doing what we got to do to help Betty heal and get her on that right set of mind,” Vilar said.
“All of us have an extremely optimistic outlook and just hope for the best and just do what we can do to make sure that she’s in a place where she can fight this and recover.
“It sucks that she has to go through this. But at least she knows that she has a full team of friends, family and fans that have just been there for her through this really difficult, challenging time. So the show is going to be great.”
Benefit Show for Betty
WHEN: 3 p.m. Sunday, July 3
WHERE: The Paramount, 2708 E. Cesar E. Chavez Avenue, Los Angeles
COST: Tickets start at $20
INFO: eventbrite.com; the concert will be available via livestream on the group’s Instagram and Facebook
A benefit show at The Paramount in Los Angeles will support Go Betty Go guitarist Betty Cisneros, who was recently diagnosed with stage 4 cancer.
Los
County Supervisor
Barger
• CALENDAR •
Upcoming Events
Movies Under the Stars
JULY 1
This week, revisit the age-old classic of “Casablanca” for free at One Colorado. Bring seating and blankets and relax under the stars, or spend $30 at one of the local establishments and enjoy VIP seating with free popcorn, candy and a soft drink.
One Colorado, 41 Hugus Alley, Pasadena, free admission, 8:30 p.m., onecolorado.com
The Smiths and Morrissey Live Tribute Night with Nowhere Fast
JULY 1
Prepare for an ’80s dance party with the best of The Smiths and Morrissey performed by the tribute act Nowhere Fast. Enjoy the biggest LED wall in town and dance the night away with all your favorite ’80s hits.
The Mixx, 443 E. Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, ticket prices vary, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., themixxclub.com
Kidspace Children’s Museum Free Family Night
JULY 1
Enjoy a night at the Children’s Museum totally free. Experience splashing fountains, giant science projects, the rope bridge, the trike tracks and the physics forest.
Kidspace Children’s Museum, 480 N. Arroyo Boulevard, Pasadena, free admission, 4 to 8 p.m., kidspacemuseum.org
Eat See Hear: “Jaws”
JULY 2
Celebrate Independence Day weekend with a special screening of Steven Spielberg’s classic “Jaws.” When a killer shark terrorizes the waters of Long Island, it’s up to the sheriff, a marine biologist, and an old seafarer to put it down for good. Come in at 6 to enjoy food and music, or just pop in at 8:30 p.m. to enjoy the movie.
Centennial Square, 100 Garfield Avenue, Pasadena, $14 to $30 admission, 6 to 10:30 p.m., eatseehear.com
Harvest Rock Church Fourth of July Picnic
JULY 3
Enjoy games, food and prizes at the Ambassador Campus. Come celebrate the birth of our country with the greatest gifts of all: family, friends and fresh chicken.
Ambassador Campus, 131 S. St. John Avenue, Pasadena, $10 adult ticket, $5 child ticket, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., harvestrock.church
Live Tribute to The Smiths and The Misfits with The Smithfits
JULY 7
Join the Smithfits as they play the greatest hits from The Smiths and The Misfits together in one package. Enjoy the biggest LED wall in town and dance the night away with all your favorite ’80s hits.
The Mixx, 443 E. Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, ticket prices vary, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., themixxclub.com
Phoebe’s Ukulele Workshop
JULY 7
Learn more about the craft of ukuleles with this weekly course. Ukuleles are provided and checked out, so kids can practice without having to already have their own.
La Pintoresca Branch Library, 1355 N. Raymond Avenue, Pasadena, 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., cityofpasadena.net/library
’80s Flashback with a Live Tribute to Blondie by Blonde E
JULY 8
Join Blonde E with a live tribute to her likeness, Blondie, at The Mixx Club. Dance the night away with all of Blondie’s best hits. Enjoy the biggest LED wall in town and dance the night away with all your favorite ’80s hits.
The Mixx, 443 E. Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, ticket prices vary, 8 p.m. to 1 a.m., themixxclub.com
Waste to Wonder: Recycled Art Masterpieces
JULY 8
Kids from 10 to 14 are encouraged to learn the art of recycling through their art. Learn how to put recycled materials and craft supplies together to make something completely unique, then put that art on display all throughout August in the library.
La Pintoresca Branch Library, 1355 N. Raymond Avenue, Pasadena, 2 to 3:30 p.m., cityofpasadena.net/library
Pet Adoption Day
JULY 9
Gelson partners with the Humane Societies this Pet Adoption Day to help find homes for pets in need. Adopt a furry friend and bring joy and comfort to the life of an animal.
Pasadena Humane, 361 S. Raymond Avenue, Pasadena, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., 818-377-6494, pasadenahumane.org
Retro Video Game Day
JULY 9
Learn more about gaming history and join up in the library meeting room for an afternoon of fun, with all sorts of retro games available for play.
Santa Catalina Branch Library, 999 E. Washington Boulevard, Pasadena, 2 to 4 p.m., free, 626-744-7272, cityofpasadena.net/library
Roxy Rose at Museum of Neon Art
JULY 10
Join an immersive in-person class with accomplished glassblower Roxy Rose at the Museum of Neon Art. Learn about how to blow the glass and handle the electrics of a unique piece from a professional with decades of experience under her belt.
Museum of Neon Art, 216 S. Brand Boulevard, Glendale, $300, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 818-696-2149, neonmona.com
ABANDONED PROPERTY
ADVERTISING SALES EXECUTIVE
Since 1998 Times Media Group has been a locally owned news and entertainment media company. Fast forward to today and TMG is now one of the largest print and digital media companies in the Southwest. With this level of growth and expansion we need to add to our multi-media sales team.
Times Media Group is seeking an experienced advertising account executive. This is an excellent opportunity for a highly motivated and experienced advertising sales professional. TMG has grown significantly as a result of its great professional team, and its well-known print and digital media platforms, including the Pasadena Weekly and Arroyo Magazine.
WHAT WE NEED
Two years of outside advertising sales experience is preferred. A good candidate for this position is financially motivated, possesses exceptional organizational skills and is ready to embrace a real opportunity to work on a quality team.
An ideal candidate will be familiar with the San Gabriel Valley area including Pasadena, Alhambra, Altadena, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena and the surrounding areas.
We are seeking an individual who can sell solutions not just ads, who appreciates straight-talk, and is hardworking, motivated, and values working in a positive team environment.
WHAT WE OFFER
+Base Pay + Commission
+Health Benefits
+401(k)
+Paid Vacations and Holidays
If, based on the requirements, you are a qualified candidate and would like to join a quality team and get on with your future, respond with your resume and a cover letter outlining why you believe you are a good fit for the position. We are currently scheduling interviews.
Times Media Group offers a positive work environment, great product line and a significant opportunity for income growth.
Times Media Group: Times Media Group is a digital and print media company that operates in the Phoenix, Tucson, San Diego and Los Angeles markets. It serves a wide variety of demographic audiences and communities.
LEGALS
Lien Sales
NOTICE OF PUBLIC AUCTION
N otice is hereby given tha t o n Tuesday July 12, 202 2 Extra Space Storage will sell a t public auction, to satisf y the lien of the owner, personal property described belo w belonging to those individuals listed below at the following location: 3700 Market St, Ventura CA 9 3003, 805-666-9180 o n 0 7/12/2022 at 11:30 A M
Steven Rosas – Bags, boxes, bicycle, clothes, tires, safe Adam Skinner – Tables, tool b ox, tandem bike, air compressor, bags, boxes, sports equipment, power tools, drill press, ladder, cabinet J asmine Rosales – Couch t able, bicycle, boxes, totes toys, shelves, pedal cart, rug t runk Whitney Byrd – Bags boxes, safe, a/c unit, powe r t ools, tool boxes, shoes c lothes, bicycle, cleanin g s upplies, skateboard, luggage, electric Razor scooter Farid Niazi – Rocks/minerals, shelving, chairs, rugs, power inverter, basket
J arred Poehler – Chair , d resser, computer monitor , b oxes, clothes, pictures , totes, shelves, desk, file cabinet, telescope, a/c unit, golf caddy, suitcases, lamp, tires, snowboard
P urchases must be mad e w ith cash only and paid a t the above referenced facility i n order to complete th e t ransaction. Extra Spac e Storage may refuse any bi d a nd may rescind any purc hase up until the winnin g b idder takes possession o f t he personal property.
P UBLISHED: Ventur a C ounty Reporter 06/23/22 , 06/30/22
NOTICE OF SALE ABANDONED PERSONAL PROPERTY
N otice is hereby given tha t t he undersigned intends t o sell the personal property described below to enforce a lien imposed on said property p ursuant to the Californi a S elf Storage Act. Items wil l be sold at www.storagetreasures.com by competitive bidd ing ending on June 12 , 2 022 at 2:00 p.m. Propert y has been stored and is loca ted at A-1 Self Storage , 2300 Poplar Blvd., Alhambra, C A 91801 Sale subject t o cancellation up to the time of sale, company reserves th e r ight to refuse any onlin e b ids.
P roperty to be sold as follows: misc. household goods, computers, electronics, tools p ersonal items, furniture c lothing, office furniture & e quipment, sporting goods etc.; belonging to the following:
Alma Delia Ramirez
A uction by StorageTreasu res.com 800-213-4183
P UBLISHED: Pasaden a Weekly 06/30/22, 07/07/22
NOTICE OF SALE OF ABANDONED PROPERTY
Notice Is Hereby Given That Pursuant To Sections 2170021716 Of The Business And P rofessions Code, Sectio n 2 328 Of The UCC, Sectio n 535 Of The Penal Code And Provisions Of The Civil Code, PSA SELF STORAGE 8000 ARTSON ST. ROSEMEAD 91770, County Of Los Angeles, State Of California Will Sell By Competitive Bidding The Following Units. Auction to Be Conducted
Notice Is Hereby Given That Pursuant To Sections 2170021716 Of The Business And Professions Code, Section 2328 Of The UCC, Section 535 Of The Penal Code And Provisions Of The Civil Code, PSA SELF STORAGE 8000 ARTSON ST. ROSEMEAD 91770, County Of Los A ngeles, State Of California Will Sell By Competitive Bidd ing The Following Units
A uction to Be Conducte d through Online Auction Serv ices of WWW.LOCKERF OX.COM, with bids opening on or after 12:00pm, July 7th , 2022 and closing on or a fter 12:00pm, July 14th , 2 022.
The Personal Goods Stored Therein by the Following May Include, but are not limited to: M ISC. HOUSEHOL D G OODS, PERSONA L I TEMS, FURNITURE
C LOTHING AND/OR BUSIN ESS ITEMS/FIXTURES.
Tapia Herrera, Engracia VALDEZ, MARIA
Purchases Must Be Made in Cash and Paid at the time of Sale. All Goods are Sold as i s and must be Remove d within 24 Hours of the time of Purchase. PSA Self StorageR osemead Reserves th e Right to Retract Bids. Sale is Subject to Adjournment.
P UBLISHED: Pasaden a Weekly 06/30/22, 07/07/22
NOTICE OF SALE OF ABANDONED PROPERTY
Notice Is Hereby Given That Pursuant to Sections 2170021716 Of The Business And P rofessions Code, Sectio n 2 328 Of The UCC, Sectio n 535 Of The Penal Code And Provisions Of The Civil Code, A LLEN AVENUE SEL F STORAGE PASADENA, 234 N. ALLEN AVE PASADENA C A 91106, County Of Lo s Angeles, State Of California, Above Address Will Sell, To S atisfy Lien Of The Owner At Public Sale. Auction to Be C onducted Through Onlin e A uction Services o f W WW.LOCKERFOX.COM
w ith bids opening o n Thursday, July 7th, 2022 @ 1 2:00 pm ending o n Thursday, July 14th, 2022 @ 12:00 pm.
The Personal Goods Stored Therein by the Following May Include, but are not limited to: M ISC. HOUSEHOL D G OODS, PERSONA L I TEMS, FURNITURE , C LOTHING AND/OR BUSIN ESS ITEMS ETC…
List Customer names below:
Carmody, Sarah Areta Davis, Sandra Douglas, Kyle Myles, Nicole Parker, Samantha Pupo, Andres Shaw, Albert
Purchases Must Be Made in Cash and Paid at the time of Sale. All Goods are Sold as i s and must be Remove d within 72 Hours of the time of P urchase. Allen Ave Sel f Storage-Pasadena Reserves t he Right to Retract Bids S ale is Subject to Adjourn
11/2007. I declare that all information in this statement is true and correct. (A regist rant who declares as true any material matter pursuant to Sect ion 17913 of the Business and Professions Code that the registrant know to be false is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed one thousand doll ars ($1,000)) REGISTRANT/CORP/LLC NAME: A len Akopians. TITLE: Owner This statement was filed with the L A County Clerk on: June 10 , 2 022. NOTICE – in accordance w ith subdivision (a) of Section 1 7920, a Fictitious Name statement generally expires at the end o f five years from the date on which it was filed in the office of t he county clerk, except, as provided in subdivision (b)
Probate
personal representative to take many actions without obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative will be required to give notice to interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.
A HEARING on the petition will be held on July 19, 2022 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 44 located at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.
IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.
IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Co de, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code Other California statutes and legal authority may affec t your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.
YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk.
Attorney for petitioner: ARPI VARDANYAN ESQ
SBN 315057
LAW OFFICES OF ARPI VARDANYAN
1122 EAST GREEN ST PASADENA CA 91106
CN987748 EVANS Jun 23,30, Jul 7, 2022
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF CHARLES C. FREI Case No. 22STPB05938
To all heirs, beneficiaries , creditors, contingent creditors, and persons who ma y otherwise be interested in the will or estate, or both, o f CHARLES C. FREI
A PETITION FOR PRO -
BATE has been filed b y Steven E. Benson in the Superior Court of California , County of LOS ANGELES
THE PETITION FOR PROBATE requests that Steven E. Benson be appointed as personal representative t o administer the estate of th e decedent.
THE PETITION requests the decedent's will and codicils, if any, be admitted to probate The will and any codicils are available for examination in the file kept by the court.
THE PETITION requests authority to administer the estate under the Independen t Administration of Estates Act
(This authority will allow the personal representative t o take many actions withou t obtaining court approval. Before taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative wil l be required to give notice to interested persons unles s they have waived notice o r consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested person files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.
A HEARING on the petition will be held on July 22, 2022 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 4 loc-
interested persons unless they have waived notice or consented to the proposed action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested p erson files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court should not grant the authority.
A HEARING on the petition will be held on July 22, 2022 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No. 4 loca ted at 111 N. Hill St., Los A ngeles, CA 90012.
I F YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the c ourt before the hearing Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.
I F YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representati ve, as defined in section 5 8(b) of the California Prob ate Code, or (2) 60 days f rom the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code Other California statutes and l egal authority may affec t your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an a ttorney knowledgeable in C alifornia law.
YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the est ate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of a ny petition or account as p rovided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: CYNTHIA CATALINO ESQ SBN 167124 CATALINO LAW 12121 WILSHIRE BLVD STE 1103
LOS ANGELES CA 90025
CN987761 FREI Jun 23,30 , Jul 7, 2022
NOTICE OF PETITION TO ADMINISTER ESTATE OF SHIRLEY ANN JOHNSTON Case No. 22STPB03347
T o all heirs, beneficiaries , c reditors, contingent credito rs, and persons who ma y otherwise be interested in the w ill or estate, or both, o f SHIRLEY ANN JOHNSTO N
A PETITION FOR PROBATE has been filed by Darrin Johnston in the Superior Court of California, County of LOS ANGELES.
T HE PETITION FOR PRO -
B ATE requests that Darri n J ohnston be appointed a s p ersonal representative t o administer the estate of th e decedent.
THE PETITION requests authority to administer the est ate under the Independen t Administration of Estates Act
(This authority will allow the p ersonal representative t o t ake many actions withou t obtaining court approval. Bef ore taking certain very important actions, however, the personal representative wil l be required to give notice to i nterested persons unles s t hey have waived notice o r c onsented to the propose d action.) The independent administration authority will be granted unless an interested p erson files an objection to the petition and shows good cause why the court shoul d not grant the authority.
A HEARING on the petitio n w ill be held on August 23 , 2022 at 8:30 AM in Dept. No 11 located at 111 N. Hill St. Los Angeles, CA 90012.
I F YOU OBJECT to th e granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing. Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.
IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your
11 located at 111 N. Hill St., Los Angeles, CA 90012.
IF YOU OBJECT to the granting of the petition, you should appear at the hearing and state your objections or file written objections with the court before the hearing Your appearance may be in person or by your attorney.
IF YOU ARE A CREDITOR or a contingent creditor of the decedent, you must file your claim with the court and mail a copy to the personal representative appointed by the court within the later of either (1) four months from the date of first issuance of letters to a general personal representative, as defined in section 58(b) of the California Probate Co de, or (2) 60 days from the date of mailing or personal delivery to you of a notice under section 9052 of the California Probate Code Other California statutes and legal authority may affec t your rights as a creditor. You may want to consult with an attorney knowledgeable in California law.
YOU MAY EXAMINE the file kept by the court. If you are a person interested in the estate, you may file with the court a Request for Special Notice (form DE-154) of the filing of an inventory and appraisal of estate assets or of any petition or account as provided in Probate Code section 1250. A Request for Special Notice form is available from the court clerk. Attorney for petitioner: RANDY D GRUEN ESQ SBN 105729
ELLE MUSSELMAN ESQ SBN 331088
THE WERNER LAW FIRM 27433 TOURNEY RD STE 200 SANTA CLARITA CA 91355
CN987945 JOHNSTON Jun 30, Jul 7,14, 2022
Name Change
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
Case No. 22AHCP00211
SUPERIOR COURT O F CALIFORNIA, COUNTY O F LOS ANGELES. Petition o f SIYING YU by and through Guardian ad litem XIERUN MAI AND ZHUOTANG YU for Change of Name. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS : 1.) Petitioner: SIYING YU BY PARENTS filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a.) SIYING YU to LISA SIYING YU 2.) THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least two court days before the matt er is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timely filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing NOTICE OF HEARING : Date: 08/02/2022. Time: 8:30 AM. Dept.: 3 Room: 300. The address of the court is 150 West Commonwealth Ave Alhambra, CA 91801. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at leas t once each week for four successive weeks prior to the date set for hearing on the petition in the following newspaper of general circulation , printed in this county: Los Angeles. Original filed: June 1, 2022. Robin Miller Sloan , Judge of the Superior Court PUBLISH: Pasadena Weekly 06/09/22, 06/16/22, 06/23/22, 06/30/22
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE
FOR CHANGE OF NAME
Case No. 22BBCP00200
S UPERIOR COURT O F CALIFORNIA, COUNTY OF L OS ANGELES. Petition o f A RMOND ABDALIA N CHANGANI , for Change o f
N ame. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1.) Petitioner: ARMOND ABDALIAN C HANGANI filed a petitio n w ith this court for a decre e changing names as follows: a .) ARMOND ABDALIA N CHANGANI to ARMOND ABD ALIAN 2.) THE COUR T ORDERS that all persons int erested in this matter appear before this court at the h earing indicated below t o show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name s hould not be granted. An y person objecting to the name c hanges described abov e must file a written objection that includes the reasons for t he objection at least tw o court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition s hould not be granted. If no w ritten objection is timel y filed, the court may grant the p etition without a hearing N OTICE OF HEARING : D ate: July 15, 2022. Time : 8 :30 AM. Dept.: A. The address of the court is 300 East O live Avenue Burbank, C A 91502. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be publ ished at least once eac h w eek for four successiv e w eeks prior to the date se t for hearing on the petition n t he following newspaper o f general circulation, printed in this county: Los Angeles. Orig inal filed: May 27, 2022 Robin Miller Sloan, Judge of t he Superior Court. PUB -
L ISH: Pasadena Weekl y 06/09/22, 06/16/22, 06/23/22 06/30/22
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
Case No. 22CMCP00100 SUPERIOR COURT O F CALIFORNIA, COUNTY O F LOS ANGELES. Petition o f MARITZA ROXANA AGUNDEZ , for Change of Name TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1.) Petitioner: MARITZA ROXANA AGUNDE Z filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a.) MARITZ A ROXANA AGUNDEZ t o MARITZA AGUNDEZ URIBE 2.) THE COURT ORDER S that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if any, why the petition fo r change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a written objection that includes the reasons for th e objection at least two cour t days before the matter i s scheduled to be heard an d must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timel y filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing NOTICE OF HEARING : Date: 08/23/2022. Time: 8:30 AM. Dept.: A Room: 904. The address of the court is 20 0 West Compton Blvd., Room 902 9th Floor Compton, CA 90220. A copy of this Orde r to Show Cause shall be published at least once eac h week for four successiv e weeks prior to the date se t for hearing on the petition n the following newspaper o f general circulation, printed in this county: Los Angeles. Original filed: June 10, 2022 Thomas D. Long, Judge o f the Superior Court. PUBLISH: Pasadena Weekl y 06/16/22, 06/23/22, 06/30/22, 07/07/22
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
Case No. 22STCP02324
S UPERIOR COURT O F CALIFORNIA, COUNTY O F L OS ANGELES. Petition o f PATRICK GABRIEL ABRAH AMIAN , for Change o f N ame. TO ALL INTERESTED PERSONS: 1.) Petit ioner: PATRICK GABRIE L A BRAHAMIAN filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as foll ows: a.) PATRICK GABRIE L ABRAHAMIAN t o PATRICK BLACKSTONE 2.) THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this m atter appear before thi s c ourt at the hearing indicated below to show cause, if a ny, why the petition fo r change of name should not be granted. Any person objecting to the name changes described above must file a w ritten objection that inc ludes the reasons for th e o bjection at least two cour t d ays before the matter i s s cheduled to be heard an d must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no w ritten objection is timel y filed, the court may grant the p etition without a hearing N OTICE OF HEARING : D ate: Aug 01, 2022. Time : 1 0:00 AM. Dept.: 74 Room: 735. The address of the court is 111 North Hill Street Los Angeles, CA 90012-3117. A c opy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successive weeks prior to the d ate set for hearing on th e petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, p rinted in this county: Lo s Angeles. Original filed: June 21, 2022. Michelle Williams Court, Judge of the Superior Court. PUBLISH: Pasadena W eekly 06/23/22, 06/30/22 , 07/07/22, 07/14/22
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME Case No. 22AHCP00221 SUPERIOR COURT O F CALIFORNIA, COUNTY O F LOS ANGELES. Petition o f CHRISTY JO MORGAN, for Change of Name. TO AL L INTERESTED PERSONS : 1.) Petitioner: CHRIST Y MORGAN filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names as follows: a. ) CHRISTY MORGAN to PIXIE INDIGO 2.) THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below t o show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. An y person objecting to the name changes described abov e must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least tw o court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timel y filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing NOTICE OF HEARING : Date: 08/09/2022. Time: 8:30 AM. Dept.: 3. The address of the court is 150 West Commonwealth Ave. Alhambra , CA 91801. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at least once each week for four successiv e weeks prior to the date se t for hearing on the petition n the following newspaper o f general circulation, printed in this county: Los Angeles. Original filed: June 10, 2022 Robin Miller Sloan, Judge of the Superior Court. PUBLISH: Pasadena Weekl y 06/30/22, 07/07/22, 07/14/22, 07/21/22
ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE FOR CHANGE OF NAME
Case No. 22AHCP00253
SUPERIOR COURT O F
CALIFORNIA, COUNTY O F
LOS ANGELES. Petition o f CHUN HEI BORIS CHAO, IO HEI BELVIS CHAO minor's by and through Guardian ad litem NELSON TAK CHI CHAO, SIO LAM NG , fo r Change of Name. TO AL L INTERESTED PERSONS : 1.) Petitioner: CHUN HE I BORIS CHAO, IO HE I
BELVIS CHAO minor's b y and through Guardian a d litem NELSON TAK CH I
CHAO, SIO LAM NG filed a petition with this court for a decree changing names a s follows: a.) CHUN HEI BORIS CHAO to BORIS CHU N HEI CHAO b.) IO HE I BELVIS CHAO to BELVIS IO HEI CHAO 2.) THE COURT ORDERS that all persons interested in this matter appear before this court at the hearing indicated below t o show cause, if any, why the petition for change of name should not be granted. An y person objecting to the name changes described abov e must file a written objection that includes the reasons for the objection at least tw o court days before the matter is scheduled to be heard and must appear at the hearing to show cause why the petition should not be granted. If no written objection is timel y filed, the court may grant the petition without a hearing NOTICE OF HEARING : Date: 08/30/2022. Time: 8:30 AM. Dept.: 3 Room: 300. The address of the court is 15 0 West Commonwealth Ave Alhambra, CA 91801. A copy of this Order to Show Cause shall be published at leas t once each week for four successive weeks prior to th e date set for hearing on th e petition in the following newspaper of general circulation, printed in this county: Lo s Angeles. Original filed: June 27, 2022. Robin Miller Sloan, Judge of the Superior Court PUBLISH: Pasadena Weekly 06/30/22, 07/07/22, 07/14/22, 07/21/22
Trustee’s Sales
NOTICE OF TRUSTEE'S SALE TS No. CA-22-898818B F Order No. : E OR20220124-4365299 YOU ARE IN DEFAULT UND ER A DEED OF TRUS T DATED 4/13/2011. UNLESS Y OU TAKE ACTION T O P ROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, IT MAY BE SOLD AT A PUBLIC SALE. IF YOU N EED AN EXPLANATION O F THE NATURE OF TH E P ROCEEDING AGAINS T Y OU, YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LAWYER. A public a uction sale to the highes t b idder for cash, cashier's c heck drawn on a state or national bank, check drawn by state or federal credit unio n, or a check drawn by a state or federal savings and loan association, or savings association, or savings bank specified in Section 5102 to the Financial Code and aut horized to do business in this state, will be held by duly appointed trustee. The sale will be made, but without cove nant or warranty, exp ressed or implied, regardi ng title, possession, or enc umbrances, to pay the remaining principal sum of the note(s) secured by the Deed of Trust, with interest and late charges thereon, as provided in the note(s), advances, under the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. BENEFICIARY MAY ELECT TO BID LESS THAN THE TOTAL AMOUNT DUE.
Trustor(s): CYNTHIA R.
der the terms of the Deed of Trust, interest thereon, fees, charges and expenses of the Trustee for the total amount (at the time of the initial publication of the Notice of Sale) reasonably estimated to be set forth below. The amount may be greater on the day of sale. BENEFICIARY MA Y ELECT TO BID LESS THAN THE TOTAL AMOUNT DUE
Trustor(s): CYNTHIA R STOLICKY, AN UNMARRIED WOMAN Recorded : 4/20/2011 as Instrument No 20110568258 of Official Records in the office of the Recorder of LOS ANGELE S County, California; Date of Sale: 7/28/2022 at 9:00 AM Place of Sale: At the Doubletree Hotel Los Angeles-Norwalk, 13111 Sycamore Drive, Norwalk, CA 90650, in the Vineyard Ballroom Amount of unpaid balance and other charges: $368,023.81 The purported property address is: 1717 N MICHIGAN AVENUE, PASADENA, CA 91104 Assessor's Parcel No.: 5849014-017 NOTICE TO POTENTIAL BIDDERS: If you are considering bidding on this property lien, you should understand that there are risks involved in bidding at a trustee auction. You will be bidding on a lien, not on the property itself. Placing the highest bid at a trustee auction does not automatically entitle you to free and clear ownership of the property You should also be aware that the lien being auctioned off may be a junior lien. If you are the highest bidder at the auction, you are or may be responsible for paying off all liens senior to the lien being auctioned off, before you can receive clear title to the property. You are encouraged to investigate the existence, priority, and size of outstanding liens that may exist on this property by contacting the county recorder's office or a title insurance company , either of which may charge you a fee for this information If you consult either of these resources, you should be aware that the same lender may hold more than one mortgage or deed of trust on the property. NOTICE TO PROPERTY OWNER: The sale date shown on this notice of sale may be postponed one or more times by the mortgagee, beneficiary , trustee, or a court, pursuant to Section 2924g of the California Civil Code. The law requires that information abou t trustee sale postponements be made available to you and to the public, as a courtesy to those not present at the sale If you wish to learn whether your sale date has been postponed, and, if applicable, the rescheduled time and date for the sale of this property, you may call 800-2802832 for information regarding the trustee's sale or visit this internet websit e http://www.qualityloan.com , using the file number assigned to this foreclosure by the Trustee: CA-22-898818BF. Information about postponements that are very short in duration or that occur close in time to the scheduled sale may not immediately be reflected in the telephone information or on the internet website. The best way to verify postponement information is to attend the scheduled sale. NOTICE TO TENANT: You may have a right to purchase this property after the trustee auction pursuant to Section 2924m of the California Civil Code. If you are an "eligible tenan t buyer," you can purchase the property if you match the last and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. If you are an "eligible bidder," you may be able to purchase the property if you exceed the las t and highest bid placed at the trustee auction. There are three steps to exercising this right of purchase. First, 48 hours after the date of the trustee sale, you can call 800-280-2832, or visit this internet website http://www.qualityloan.com,
