Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood,...

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Beverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten- dance at Tuesday night’s city coun- cil meeting that, if they are in favor of “the people’s right to vote on our city’s future this November, to please stand up.” The near-capacity crowd stood up in support of placing the Beverly Hills Garden & Open Space Initiative – the first development plan to avoid city hall approval by going straight to the voters – on the November presidential ballot rather than being decided by a special election. The city council unanimously agreed. The council members didn’t hes- itate to vote against adopting the initiative as is – a plan to turn two city-approved residential projects into one development. In 2008, the city approved Beverly Hilton owner Beny Alagem’s initial plan to build an 8-story building at Wilshire Boulevard and Merv Griffin Way and an 18-story build- ing at Santa Monica Boulevard and Merv Griffin Way. The initiative now set for the November ballot “Whether you think it’s great or awful, from a process point of view, it is groundbreaking.” - Beverly Hills Councilman Julian Gold City Attorney Mike Feuer on Monday announced that his office will step in to help tenants displaced by landlords seeking higher profit on the short-term rental market. “We live in a city with a pro- found shortage of affordable housing,” Feuer said. “Given that shortage of affordable hous- ing, illegally converting rental units to hotels or short-term rentals has got to stop. My office is going to intervene to preserve rent stabilized units and to restore those units when we allege they’ve been unlawfully taken off the market.” Feuer said Carol J. Alsman, the owner of a rent-stabilized, four-unit property at 500 N. Genesee Ave. in the Fairfax District, was charged with six counts in a criminal case. Alsman legally evicted tenants and took the property off the market under the Ellis Act in 2014. But weeks later, she allegedly advertised the units on short-term rental sites like Airbnb when the Ellis Act only allows landlords to either return it to the rental market after five years or to demolish the build- ing. Feuer didn’t specify how far the abuse of the Ellis Act spreads in Los Angeles, but he said it’s a top priority of his office and that he hopes the actions send a mes- sage to other landlords operating illegally. “We need these rent-stabilized units so we can have places that are decent to house people in our city,” Feuer said. “If rent stabi- lized units are taken off of the rental marketplace, there are ten- Los Angeles Police Department Chief Charlie Beck ruled that the lethal use of force was “out of policy” nearly a year after a Wilshire Division officer shot and killed a male suspect on Sycamore Avenue. The incident that led to the officer-involved shooting occurred at approximately 8:40 a.m. on July 9, 2015. According to Beck’s report, Officer Stephan Shuff and an unidentified proba- tionary officer responded to a call about a suspect breaking windows with a skateboard near the corner of Wilshire Boulevard and La Brea Avenue. They saw a vacant business with a broken window near the southeast cor- ner, and observed a man with a skateboard a short distance away swinging it at windows. The sus- pect was later identified as Neil In the wake of the tragedy at an Orlando LGBT club that occurred during L.A. Pride week, West Hollywood clubs and bars are increasing security and personnel checks to ensure safety at large gatherings. One of the more popular bars, The Abbey, typically increases security at large events such as the Pride festival. On top of that, the bar added 10 security guards, four of them armed, after the mass shooting. Owner David Cooley said those changes will now be permanent, with armed guards every night. “For Pride, we had 36 security guards, including a visible armed guard at the front and rear entrances at all times,” he said. “As we always do, we were searching every bag entering The Abbey and asked anyone with large bulky coats to remove them before entering. The Abbey has always been a safe haven for the LGBT community. It’s my job to keep my customers and my staff safe. If adding armed guards helps people feel safe, I will do it. I will continue to work with the West Hollywood Sheriffs on the proper safety precautions moving for- ward.” Councilman John Duran said The Abbey is not alone and that most of the city’s nightclubs are See initiative page 22 See LAPD page 21 See Ellis page 22 Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, Hancock Park, Beverly Hills and Wilshire Communities June 23, 2016 INSIDE • Hollywood’s Target project back for approval • p. 3 Sunny with temps in the mid 80s WWW.BEVERLYPRESS.COM n Suspect shot after using Taser on officer last summer photo by Edwin Folven Police closed Sycamore Avenue for hours on July 9, 2015 when an officer-involved shooting occurred. n Beverly Hills council places initiative on Nov. ballot n City charges Fairfax landlord for displacing tenants for Airbnb photo by Gregory Cornfield City Attorney Mike Feuer discusses the negative consequences of converting apartments into short-term rentals, and the effects it has on the housing crisis. L.A. cracks down on Ellis Act abuse amid housing crisis 2015 LAPD shooting ruled ‘out of policy’ Development’s fate in voters’ hands n Community “still shaken” but not afraid West Hollywood bars bulk up security By edwin folven By GreGory Cornfield By GreGory Cornfield See security page 21 By GreGory Cornfield photo courtesy of Councilman John Duran Councilman John Duran speaks during the One Love One Pulse fundraiser for victims in Orlando.

Transcript of Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood,...

Page 1: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

Beverly Hills Mayor JohnMirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday night’s city coun-cil meeting that, if they are in favorof “the people’s right to vote on ourcity’s future this November, toplease stand up.”

The near-capacity crowd stoodup in support of placing the BeverlyHills Garden & Open SpaceInitiative – the first developmentplan to avoid city hall approval bygoing straight to the voters – on theNovember presidential ballot ratherthan being decided by a specialelection. 

The city council unanimouslyagreed.

The council members didn’t hes-itate to vote against adopting theinitiative as is – a plan to turn two

city-approved residential projectsinto one development. In 2008, thecity approved Beverly Hiltonowner Beny Alagem’s initial planto build an 8-story building atWilshire Boulevard and MervGriffin Way and an 18-story build-ing at Santa Monica Boulevard andMerv Griffin Way. The initiativenow set for the November ballot

“Whether you thinkit’s great or awful,from a process

point of view, it isgroundbreaking.”

- Beverly Hills CouncilmanJulian Gold

City Attorney Mike Feuer onMonday announced that hisoffice will step in to help tenantsdisplaced by landlords seekinghigher profit on the short-termrental market.

“We live in a city with a pro-found shortage of affordablehousing,” Feuer said. “Giventhat shortage of affordable hous-ing, illegally converting rentalunits to hotels or short-termrentals has got to stop. My officeis going to intervene to preserverent stabilized units and torestore those units when weallege they’ve been unlawfullytaken off the market.”

Feuer said Carol J. Alsman,the owner of a rent-stabilized,four-unit property at 500 N.Genesee Ave. in the FairfaxDistrict, was charged with sixcounts in a criminal case.Alsman legally evicted tenantsand took the property off themarket under the Ellis Act in2014. But weeks later, sheallegedly advertised the units onshort-term rental sites likeAirbnb when the Ellis Act only

allows landlords to either returnit to the rental market after fiveyears or to demolish the build-ing.

Feuer didn’t specify how farthe abuse of the Ellis Act spreadsin Los Angeles, but he said it’s atop priority of his office and thathe hopes the actions send a mes-

sage to other landlords operatingillegally.

“We need these rent-stabilizedunits so we can have places thatare decent to house people in ourcity,” Feuer said. “If rent stabi-lized units are taken off of therental marketplace, there are ten-

Los Angeles PoliceDepartment Chief Charlie Beckruled that the lethal use of forcewas “out of policy” nearly a yearafter a Wilshire Division officershot and killed a male suspect onSycamore Avenue.

The incident that led to theofficer-involved shooting

occurred at approximately 8:40a.m. on July 9, 2015. Accordingto Beck’s report, Officer StephanShuff and an unidentified proba-tionary officer responded to acall about a suspect breakingwindows with a skateboard nearthe corner of Wilshire Boulevardand La Brea Avenue. They saw avacant business with a brokenwindow near the southeast cor-ner, and observed a man with askateboard a short distance awayswinging it at windows. The sus-pect was later identified as Neil

In the wake of the tragedy at anOrlando LGBT club that occurredduring L.A. Pride week, WestHollywood clubs and bars areincreasing security and personnelchecks to ensure safety at largegatherings.

One of the more popular bars,The Abbey, typically increasessecurity at large events such as thePride festival. On top of that, thebar added 10 security guards, fourof them armed, after the massshooting. Owner David Cooleysaid those changes will now bepermanent, with armed guardsevery night.

“For Pride, we had 36 securityguards, including a visible armedguard at the front and rearentrances at all times,” he said.“As we always do, we weresearching every bag entering TheAbbey and asked anyone withlarge bulky coats to remove thembefore entering. The Abbey hasalways been a safe haven for theLGBT community.  It’s my job tokeep my customers and my staffsafe. If adding armed guards helpspeople feel safe, I will do it. I willcontinue to work with the WestHollywood Sheriffs on the propersafety precautions moving for-ward.” 

Councilman John Duran saidThe Abbey is not alone and thatmost of the city’s nightclubs are

See initiative page 22

See LAPD page 21

See Ellis page 22

Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, Hancock Park, Beverly Hills and Wilshire Communities June 23, 2016

INSIDE• Hollywood’s Target

project back forapproval • p. 3Sunny with

temps in themid 80s

WWW.BEVERLYPRESS.COM

n Suspect shot afterusing Taser on officerlast summer

photo by Edwin FolvenPolice closed Sycamore Avenue for hours on July 9, 2015 when anofficer-involved shooting occurred.

n Beverly Hills council places initiative on Nov. ballotn City charges Fairfaxlandlord for displacingtenants for Airbnb

photo by Gregory CornfieldCity Attorney Mike Feuer discusses the negative consequences ofconverting apartments into short-term rentals, and the effects it has onthe housing crisis.

L.A. cracks down on Ellis Actabuse amid housing crisis

2015 LAPD shootingruled ‘out of policy’

Development’s fatein voters’ hands

n Community “stillshaken” but not afraid

West Hollywood barsbulk up security

By edwin folven

By GreGory Cornfield

By GreGory Cornfield

See security page 21

By GreGory Cornfield

photo courtesy of Councilman John DuranCouncilman John Duran speaksduring the One Love One Pulsefundraiser for victims in Orlando.

Page 2: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

23 Japanese FilmLearn about Japanese cinema dur-ing “Madame Butterfly and The

Birth of the Motion Picture Actress inJapan,” a lecture on Thursday, June 23at 7 p.m. at Japan Foundation LosAngeles. Daisuke Miyao, a professorof Japanese language and literature atthe University of California, SanDiego will speak about the impactactress Aoki Tsuruko had on Japanesefilm. Admission is free. 5700 WilshireBlvd., Ste. 100. (323)761-7510,www.jflalc.org.

‘Tape’Break Free Productions presents“Tape” on Thursday, June 23 and

Friday, June 24 at 8 p.m. at theUnderground Theatre Annex inHollywood. The production, whichstars David Wunderlich, BrandonCampopiano and Angeline Anderson,explores love and betrayal amongthree friends. Tickets are $15. 1314 N.Wilton Place. www.brownpapertick-ets.com/event/2562946.

24 LGBT Center’sOutdoor FilmEnjoy an outdoor screening of

“Drop Dead Gorgeous” on Friday,June 24 at 9 p.m. at the HollywoodForever Cemetery. The film starsKirstie Alley, Kirsten Dunst, AllisonJanney and Ellen Barkin. The screen-ing is part of the Los Angeles LGBTCenter’s “Out Under the Stars” series.VIP packages for two are $150 andinclude 6:30 p.m. entrance, one com-plimentary drive-on parking pass, pre-miere seating for two and a picnicwith food and wine. General admis-sion tickets are $25 and include entryat 7:30 p.m. 6000 Santa Monica Blvd.www.lalgbtcenter.org/movie.

25 Hemophilia 5K WalkSupport the National Hemophilia

Foundation’s summer camp dur-ing the “Hemophilia Walk 2016” onSaturday, June 25 at the CrystalSprings picnic area in Griffith Park.Registration starts at 8 a.m.; the 5Kwalk begins at 9:15 a.m. The eventalso includes a wild west-themed fes-tival with pony rides, petting zoo, facepainting, balloon twisting, roping con-

test and special guests. 4730 CrystalSprings Dr. (626)765-6656, or [email protected].

Household HazardousWaste DisposalDispose of household hazardous

waste and e-waste on Saturday,June 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at theWende Museum’s Armory building.Televisions, computers, batteries,paint, pesticides, pool chemicals,motor oil, expired pharmaceuticals,anti-freeze, cell phones and and manyother items are accepted. The event issponsored by the cities of WestHollywood and Los Angeles. 10808Culver Blvd. (888)CLEANLA,www.cleanla.com.

‘Opera & Dinner’Singer and comedienne MikiYamashita hosts a hilarious

evening of musical entertainment in

“Opera & Dinner” on Saturday, June25 at 5 p.m. at the Doheny GreystoneEstate in Beverly Hills. Friends ofGreystone is hosting the show withYamashita and mezzo-sopranoNandani Maria Sinha, tenor AshleyFaatoalia and baritone David Castillo.Lawry’s will serve dinner in themansion’s living room prior to theperformance. Guests can also tourthe mansion’s first floor. Tickets are$150 for Friends of Greystone mem-bers; $175 for non-members. 905Loma Vista Drive. (310)286-0119, www.greystonemansion.org.

26 Family MusicSing, dance, and clap along with theband Artichoke on Sunday, June

26 from 1 to 4 p.m. at The AutryMuseum of the American West.Artichoke is a Los Angeles-basedmusical group that energizes familiesand children with lively indie poptunes. The performance is part of the

“Autry Explorer” series. Admission isfree or Autry members; included with$10 adult admission. 4700 WesternHeritage Way. (323)667-2000,www.theautry.org.

‘I Stand Corrected’West Hollywood presents a freescreening of “I Stand

Corrected” on Sunday, June 26 at 2p.m. at West Hollywood City Hall.The documentary chronicles JenniferLeitham’s public transition from JohnLeitham to Jennifer while on tour withDoc Severinson. A discussion withdirector Andrea Meyerson follows thescreening. Following the program,Leitham will launch the city’s 2016“Summer Sounds Concert Series”with a free performance in the newWest Hollywood City HallCommunity Plaza. 8300 SantaMonica Blvd. (323)848-6377,www.weho.org/pride.

Art and PoliticsWende Museum chief curatorDr. Joes Segal will discuss his

book “Art and Politics: BetweenPurity and Propaganda” on Sunday,June 26 from 4 to 6 p.m. at themuseum. The book explores how artand politics, seemingly worldsapart, are often  intertwined in sur-prising ways. 5741 BuckinghamParkway, Ste. E. (310)216-1600, www.wendemuseum.org. 

Reggae at The BowlReggae fans won’t want to missKCRW’s “World Festival at the

Hollywood Bowl,” which kicks offwith a 15th anniversary celebrationof the Bowl’s annual night of reg-gae music on Sunday, June 26 at 7p.m. Roots reggae pioneer BurningSpear will give his final perfor-mance in California. Ky-ManiMarley and Etana will also per-form. Tickets start at $14. 2301 N.Highland Ave. (323)850-2000,www.HollywoodBowl.com.

27 Women in FilmWest Hollywood continues its“Women in Film Speaker

Series” on Monday, June 27 from 7:30to 9:30 p.m. in the city council cham-bers. Filmmakers and entertainmentindustry leaders will offer profession-al insight into the art and craft of film,television and media. Admission is

$10. 625 N. San Vicente Blvd.www.womeninfilm.org.

Musical TheaterALittle New Music brings itsmusical theater performance to

the Catalina Bar & Grill on Monday,June 27 at 8:30 p.m. Performersinclude Nicole Parker, Rhett George,Emma Hunton, Nina Herzog, MattMagnusson, Rena Strober, JenniferSun Bell, Cooper Howell, JordanGoodsell, Jonathan Brett, RachelBurcham and Cy Creamer. Doorsopen at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $15;dinner or two drink minimumrequired. 6725 W. Sunset Blvd.www.alittlenewmusic.org.

28 Autos andArchitectureAutomobile aficionados are invited

to “Automobiles, Architectureand Innovation in Los Angeles: ARetrospective on a Creative Future”on Tuesday, June 28 at 7 p.m. at thePetersen Automotive Museum.Author and Art Center College ofDesign faculty member Larry Cranewill lead the discussion on the inter-section between cars and the architec-tural landscape of the city. Admissionis free. 6060 Wilshire Blvd. (323)930-2277, www.petersen.org.

WeHo RentStabilization ForumLearn about West Hollywood’s

landlord and tenant laws at“Making the Connection with SocialService Providers,” part of the RentStabilization Ordinance BuildingBlocks seminars, on Tuesday, June 28at 7 p.m. in the West HollywoodCommunity Center at Plummer Park.Information for tenants, family mem-bers, caregivers and landlords will beprovided. 7377 Santa Monica Blvd.,Room 6. (323)848-6450,www.weho.org.

‘Omo Child: TheRiver and the Bush’“Omo Child: The River and the

Bush,” a film examining a tra-dition of the Kara tribe in Ethiopiathat deems certain children are“cursed” and should be killed will beshown on Tuesday, June 28 at 7:30p.m. at the Skirball Cultural Center.Director and producer John Rowe willdiscuss the film with its main subjectLale Labuko, who saves children inEthiopia by adopting them. 2701 N.Sepulveda Blvd. (310)440-4500,www.skirball.org.

2 June 23, 2016 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

C a l e n d a r

photo by Michelle PedersonJoin actress and comedienne Melissa Peterman for the annual “Sing-A-Long Sound of Music” returning to the Hollywood Bowl on Friday, June24. Peterman leads pre-show festivities and a costume parade startingat 6:30 p.m. The classic film, with subtitles so audiences can sing along,will be shown at 8 p.m. Tickets start at $12. 2301 N. Highland Ave.(323)850-2000, www.HollywoodBowl.com.

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Page 3: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

The Los Angeles City Council isscheduled to review the unfinishedTarget project at Sunset Boulevardand Western Avenue on Friday toconsider changes required to get theproject back on track.The previously approved Targetproject was halted in August 2014after a Los Angeles Superior Courtjudge sided with community groupsseeking to stop the development ongrounds that it exceeded a 35-footheight limit for buildings in the area.An appeal of that ruling is pending.The building has remained vacantand incomplete for nearly two years.In May, the city council approvedan amendment to the area’s Station

Neighborhood Area Plan (SNAP)that will enable construction toresume on the Target store. Theamendment allows a 74-foot Targetbuilding at the location, which iszoned for 35-foot-tall structures. Thechange would pertain only to theTarget site.Councilman Mitch O’Farrell, 13thDistrict, is working with Target to getwork started again. Tony Arranaga,communications director forO’Farrell, said the review on Fridayis a “procedural” final step “to ensurethat Target can resume constructionquickly and in the most legallydefensible way possible.”Doug Haines, a member of the LaMirada Avenue NeighborhoodAssociation, one of the groups thatinitially sued to stop the Target con-struction, said the meeting on Fridaywill allow the city to publicly consid-er changes so they comply with theBrown Act, which guarantees the

public a right to participate in publicmeetings. Members of the public canweigh in on the project at the hear-ing.Haines’s association recently fileda second lawsuit against the projectafter the changes were approved inMay. He contends that a new envi-ronmental impact report (EIR) isnecessary because the project’sscope has changed.He said he wasn’t sure exactlywhat will transpire on Friday, but heplans to proceed with the new law-suit. No date has been set for whenthe lawsuit will be considered.“It’s always been a three-ring cir-cus when it comes to this project,”Haines said. “How it all plays out, Idon’t know. The agenda is veryvague.”The agenda for the meeting onFriday calls for the council to certifyan addendum to the project’s EIR,deny appeals to the project and adopt

the specific plan change. Arranagasaid O’Farrell remains committed tohaving the Target project open assoon as possible. It is unclear whenconstruction will resume.

The matter is scheduled to beheard after 10 a.m. on June 24 in theJohn Ferraro Council Chamber,Room 340, Los Angeles City Hall,200 N. Spring St.

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 3 June 23, 2016

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photo by Edwin FolvenThe city council will review plans on Friday that could lead to resumingconstruction on the Target project in Hollywood.

Council aims at Target approval, againn Neighborhood groupfiles second lawsuitagainst the cityBy edwin folven

Sen. Tony Mendoza (D-Artesia),chair of the California Senate Labor& Industrial Relations Committee, iscalling for a comprehensive reviewof the approaches the state is using tocombat fraud.Mendoza recently sent a letter tothe executive director of the

California Commission on Healthand Safety and WorkersCompensation (CHSWC) outlininghis request for analysis.“As was recently detailed by theCenter for Investigative Reporting, atleast $1 billion in medical fraud hasbeen uncovered by current workers’

compensation prosecutions,” the let-ter read. “These include fraudulent orunnecessary surgeries and com-pound medicines, as well as the sell-ing of patient referrals to lawyers anddoctors. Taken individually, thesefraudulent schemes are troubling.Taken together, they raise unsettlingand disturbing questions about ourability to fight against systemic fraud

throughout California’s workers’compensation system.”Mendoza has requested that theDepartment of Industrial Relationsand CHSWC perform a comprehen-sive joint review of existing anti-fraud efforts to determine what stepsmay strengthen the state’s anti-fraudefforts.“I am outraged by the level of

fraud in California’s workers com-pensation system,” Mendoza added.“Clearly, something needs to bedone. Fraud hurts injured workersand increases costs for California’sbusinesses. It is imperative that thatwe determine whether there are anyregulatory or legislative solutions tofix and prevent such fraud in theworkers compensation system.”

Senator scrutinizes state’s anti-fraud efforts

Page 4: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

The Los Angeles FireDepartment determined that ablaze in the Sportie L.A. shoestore on Melrose Avenue on June16 was arson.The fire was reported at

approximately 1:07 a.m. at 7366Melrose Avenue. Flames andsmoke were visible toward therear of the building when fire-fighters arrived, said LAFDspokesman Brian Humphrey. Acaller initially reported the blazeas a rubbish fire, but Humphrey

said firefighters determined itwas a structure fire that spreadinside the store.The cause of the blaze has not

been released. Humphrey saidTuesday that the LAFD’s ArsonUnit is investigating the blaze.He said investigators have “evi-dence,” but would not divulgeany further details.“It’s under active investiga-

tion,” he said. “They are work-ing with the LAPD to identifythe person responsible.”No damage estimate was

available.

4 June 23, 2016 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

The Assembly TransportationCommittee has approved legislationby Sen. Bob Hertzberg (D-VanNuys) that would stop the automaticsuspension of driver’s licenseswhen people fail to appear in courton minor traffic offenses or fail topay fines.SB 881, which was approved by

the committee in an 8-4 vote, wouldend what Hertzberg said is an over-ly harsh punishment that does not fitthe offense and sends many peopleinto a downward spiral that canresult in losing a job or ending up injail. Presently, 612,000 Californianshave suspended driver’s licensesdue to failure to appear or failure topay traffic tickets, according to the

California Department of MotorVehicles.“The truth of the matter is we

have created the modern equivalentof debtors’ prison by taking awaypeople’s driver’s licenses or throw-ing them in jail simply because theyare too poor to pay a fine,”Hertzberg said. “We must restorecommon sense to our justice sys-tem, treat the poor with decency andfairness and give workingCalifornians a chance to makeamends without jeopardizing theirjobs or their families.”Throughout the United States,

rising court fines, fees and penaltiesfor minor offenses have proven tobe especially burdensome on poor

individuals, who sometimes end uplosing their driver’s licenses andjobs or are sent to jail because theycould not pay fines or failed toappear in court. A New Jersey studyfound that 42 percent of peoplewhose driver’s licenses were sus-pended lost their jobs as a result ofthe suspension. According to areport last month by the U.S.Federal Reserve, 46 percent ofAmericans don’t have $400 to payfor an emergency expense andwould have to sell something orborrow money to cover the cost.Traffic tickets often cost hundredsof dollars and can exceed $400,depending on the offense,Hertzberg added.

Legislation on traffic ticket amnesty rolls aheadBy edwin folven

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Arson fire erupts in shoe store on Melrose Avenue

photo by Edwin FolvenThe LAFD deemed arson as the cause of a fire that erupted on June16 in the Sportie L.A. store on Melrose Avenue.

Four defendants charged withcommitting a series of brazensmash-and-grab robberies at jewel-ry stores that netted millions of dol-lars in Rolex and other luxurywatches were arrested on June 16.The four suspects arrested are

part of a group of nine defendantscharged in a federal indictment. Sixof the suspects allegedly plannedand organized the robberies, andthree allegedly participated in oneor more of the robberies. In addi-tion to the four defendants arrestedton June 16, three suspects arealready in custody. Authoritiessearching for two remaining defen-dants.The suspects targeted jewelry

store selling Rolex, Audemars

Piguet and TAG Heuer watches.The organizers of the conspiracyrecruited financially desperateyoung men to perform the smash-and-grab robberies, often bypromising large sums of money ifthey were successful, according toauthorities. However, when the sus-pects were eventually paid, theyoften received much less than whatthey had been promised, despitestealing watches and other jewelryvalued at approximately $6 million.The suspects charged in the

indictment include Darrell Dent,Keith Walton, Robert Johnson,Stanley Ford, Justin Henning, EvanScott, Kenneth Paul, JamesonLaforest and Marshawn Marshall.Most of the suspects are from Los

Angeles or Inglewood.The stores targeted include

Westime in West Hollywood,Geary’s in the Century City malland Ben Bridge Jewelers in SantaMonica. During the armed robberyat Westime on Feb. 17, the suspectsstole 18 Audemars Piguet watchesvalued at $576,200.“The organizers of this ring care-

fully planned and executed a seriesof daylight robberies that terrifiedand endangered store employeesand bystanders,” said United StatesAttorney Eileen M. Decker. “Theindictment and arrests demonstratethat ringleaders cannot escape pros-ecution by sending lower-level par-ticipants in to commit the crimes ontheir behalf.”

Suspects arrested for luxury watch thefts

Trader Joe’s Company hasagreed to reduce emissions ofpotent greenhouse gases fromrefrigeration equipment as part of aproposed settlement with the U.S.Department of Justice and theEnvironmental Protection Agency(EPA).The agreement resolves alleged

violations of the Clean Air Act.Trader Joe’s will spend an estimat-ed $2 million over the next threeyears to reduce coolant leaks fromrefrigerators and other equipmentand improve company-wide com-pliance. The company will also paya $500,000 civil penalty.The U.S. Justice Department and

the EPA alleged that Trader Joe’sviolated the Clean Air Act by fail-ing to promptly repair leaks of R-

22, an ozone-depleting substanceand greenhouse gas used as acoolant in refrigerators. The com-pany also failed to keep adequateservice records of its refrigerationequipment and failed to provideinformation about its compliancerecord.Trader Joe’s will also implement

a corporate refrigerant compliancemanagement system to complywith federal stratospheric ozoneregulations and to detect and repairleaks through a new quarterly leakmonitoring program. Additionally,Trader Joe’s will maintain an annu-al corporate-wide average leak rateof 12.1 percent through 2019, wellbelow the grocery store sector aver-age of 25 percent. To review thesettlement, visit www.justice.gov.

Trader Joe’s enters settlement ingreenhouse gas emissions case

Page 5: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

LAUSD last week unanimouslyapproved a labor agreement with thedistrict’s largest union, UnitedTeachers Los Angeles (UTLA). Thenew agreement focuses on teacherevaluations and class sizes in specificareas.

The terms revise the teacher eval-uation process and provide addition-al teachers for secondary schools tostaff new elective classes, such as

visual and performing arts, ethnicstudies or to reduce the number ofstudents in existing electives at mid-dle and high schools. The top 55schools with the greatest need willeach add a teacher to reduce classsizes through sixth-grade. To providemore student services, secondarycounselors and psychiatric socialworkers will work an additional 17days at schools. An additional provi-sion is that more no than 55 studentsmay participate in middle and highschool physical education classes.

Regarding performance evalua-tions, teachers now will be evaluatedbased on fewer evaluation focus ele-ments, allowing them to deepentheir teaching practice and receivemore meaningful feedback. Withthese changes, the district and theunion believe that teachers will bemore engaged in the evaluationprocess and take greater ownershipof their own professional growth.

“The district worked really hardto make negotiations a collabora-tive process and to create anagreement that will work for avery long time benefitting the stu-dents of Los Angeles,” saidSuperintendent Michelle King.

Several board membersapplauded the agreement.

“As a veteran classroomteacher, I applaud UTLA and thedistrict for working together toensure that we value our teachers

not just in word, but in action,”said board president SteveZimmer. “I am confident LAUSDremains on a path to implement-ing fair and meaningful teacherevaluations that will lead toimproved instruction for all stu-

dents. I look forward to continu-ing the collaboration that led totoday’s approval and thank therank and file of UTLA for theireveryday commitment to our stu-dents.”

Board member Mónica Ratliff

said, “Many students and parentswant smaller class sizes and artsinstruction. I strongly supportstrategic class size reduction andarts instruction. I am proud to sup-port this agreement, which goeseven further than the collaborativeeffort of UTLA and L.A. Unifiedto create a Class Size Task

Force by actually dedicating fundsto class size reduction in a numberof our K-12 schools with an addedfocus on arts and electives in oursecondary schools.” 

The new terms are part of thecurrent 2014-17 contract, whichincluded a 10 percent salaryincrease.

The California Supreme Courtupheld the conviction of formerBeverly Hills Unified SchoolDistrict (BHUSD) SuperintendentJeffrey Hubbard on charges ofmisappropriating funds.

The decision, which was madepublic in a finding released onJune 16, overturns a lower courtruling that reversed Hubbard’sconviction for misappropriatingfunds when he was superintendent

from July 2003 to June 2006.Hubbard was convicted during a2012 jury trial. He was sentencedto 60 days in jail and 208 hours ofcommunity service, and wasordered to pay $23,500 restitutionto the school district, according toJane Robison, a spokeswoman forthe Los Angeles County DistrictAttorney’s Office.

Philip Kaufler, who representedHubbard in the case before theCalifornia Supreme Court, saidhis client had already fulfilled theterms of his sentencing but soughtto have the criminal chargesstruck from the record. The resti-tution was paid to the school dis-trict, he added.

The crimes occurred in 2005and 2006 and involved compensa-tion Hubbard approved for theBHUSD’s then-director of plan-ning and facilities KarenChristiansen. Hubbard gaveChristiansen a $20,000 stipendand increased her monthly auto-mobile allowance from $150 to$500 because of additional dutiesshe had undertaken with construc-tion projects, according to thecourt’s ruling.

Prosecutors alleged thatHubbard misappropriated fundsby unilaterally giving the increas-es to Christiansen without seekingapproval from the school board.Hubbard’s attorney argued that

the school board had been con-sulted, but evidence at trial did notsupport the claims.

In 2014, the 2nd District Courtof Appeals reversed Hubbard’sconviction. The Los AngelesCounty District Attorney’s Officeand the California AttorneyGeneral’s Office later petitionedthe California Supreme Court toreview the appellate court’s rul-ing.

The Supreme Court justicesconsidered the legal question ofwhether Hubbard, as superinten-dent, was “charged with thereceipt, safekeeping, transfer ordisbursement of public moneys,”according to the court’s ruling.The justices ruled that Hubbard’sposition as superintendent satis-fied that legal requirement.

“His employment contractmade clear that he was responsi-ble for implementing policies inthe realm of budgeting and busi-ness affairs, and for taking thelead in raising money for schoolfacilities,” the ruling read.

Kaufler said his client was dis-appointed by the ruling and is“exploring further options.”Hubbard left the Beverly HillsUnified School District and laterserved as superintendent for theNewport-Mesa Unified SchoolDistrict before retiring. Kauflersaid Hubbard’s restitution wouldhave been returned had theCalifornia Supreme Court upheldthe appellate court’s decision toreverse the conviction.

“It was an attempt to clear hisname,” Kaufler added.

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 5 June 23, 2016

n Hubbard is exploringoptions after attempt toclear nameBy edwin folven

CA Supreme Court affirms former BHUSD chief’s conviction

LAUSD approves agreement with United Teachers L.A.

“As a veteran classroom teacher, Iapplaud UTLA and thedistrict for workingtogether to ensurethat we value ourteachers not just inword, but in action. Iam confident LAUSDremains on a path toimplementing fair andmeaningful teacherevaluations.”

- Steve ZimmerLAUSD board president

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6 June 23, 2016 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Councilman David Ryu, 4thDistrict, has been selected as adelegate for Hillary Clinton andwill be attending the DemocraticNational Convention being heldJuly 25-28 in Philadelphia.

The 317 district-level dele-gates recently met and voted onthe 105 at-large delegates at thedelegation meeting held Sunday,June 19.

“We met with the campaignand were provided a list of partyleaders and elected officials andat-large delegates,” said EstevanMontemayor, CommunicationsDirector for Ryu. “Mr. Ryu wasamongst that list as an at largedelegate which he applied for.”

“I was biting my nails, andonce I got the notification I wasvery thrilled,” Ryu said. “This isthe first time in history where theDemocratic Party has nominateda woman for president and I am

super excited to witness that andthat I am able to cast my vote forher.”

“As an immigrant to thiscountry that gave me so muchopportunity it is more than timethat we finally have our firstwoman president,” Ryu said.“We are a party of unity andbuilding bridges. Hillary standsfor projecting and speaking upfor the voiceless. That’s why Iam a democrat and very excitedto support her.”

Ryu heads to DemocraticNational Convention

courtesy of Ryu’s office

By Stephanie Michaud

On June 16, the City of LosAngeles Taxi Commissionapproved recommendations fromthe Los Angeles Department ofTransportation (LADOT) to reduceby 36 percent the taxi industry fran-chise fee. In addition, LADOT alsotook action to expand the existingHail-A-Taxi Program citywide.

Amid rising operating costs and achanging economy, the franchisefee reduction will help to supportthe taxi industry, while the Hail-A-Taxi Program will make it easierfor passengers and taxi drivers toconnect for a trip.

“It is a priority for my adminis-tration to provide more options forAngelenos to get around the city asquickly and conveniently as possi-ble – and that includes making iteasier to catch a cab” said LosAngeles Mayor Eric Garcetti on

June 16. “Our transportation sys-tems are constantly changingthrough new innovations –and  today’s action makes it easierfor taxis to remain competitivewhich helps support a more thriv-ing local economy.” 

Current franchise fees are set at$1,270 per taxi annually.  The fran-chise fee reduction will generate asavings of approximately $457 pertaxi, per year.  

“It’s important for Los Angelesto allow the heavily regulated taxiindustry to modernize as it com-petes with largely unregulated ridehailing companies,” saidCouncilmember PaulKrekorian.   “(The Commission’s)decision gives the industry the abil-ity to operate more economically,while keeping all existing passen-ger safety standards intact.”

The Hail-A-Taxi Pilot Programwas initially launched in downtownLos Angeles and Hollywood in2009 as a way to make it easier tohail taxis in the city.  While it hasalways been legal to hail a taxi, thepilot program focused on providingclear guidelines to taxi drivers andto the city’s own traffic enforce-ment officers about when andwhere they could hail.   TheCommission’s action expands thoseguidelines citywide.

Taxi Commission President EricSpiegelman stated on the day of theannouncement, “We ask our taxidrivers to provide equal service toall Angelenos, including those wholive in South Los Angeles and thosewho use a wheelchair, and our taxidrivers gladly comply. Today’s feereduction helps them continue toprovide these valuable services.”

Los Angeles reduces taxi franchise fees

Congressman Xavier Becerra(D-Calif.) last week announced thatthe 34th District received more than$8.3 million in AmeriCorps fund-ing from the Corporation forNational and Community Service(CNCS), the federal agency for vol-unteering and service programs.

The federal investment includesfive grants totaling $5,303,608,which will support 1,140AmeriCorps members.AmeriCorps members will tacklesome of the toughest problems inthe Los Angeles area includingmentoring and tutoring at-riskyouth and helping students stay on-track toward graduation. 

“AmeriCorps personnel are onthe ground in the Los AngelesPromise Zone and the Los AngelesPromise Neighborhood, demon-strating every day how to win the

new war on poverty,” said DixonSlingerland, executive director ofthe Youth Policy Institute. “They’retutoring young people, they’re con-necting them to services, and theyare reaching out in schools andneighborhoods to transform com-munities.”

CNCS will also provide up to $2.9million in education scholarships forthe AmeriCorps members funded bythese grants to help pay for college,vocational training, or pay back stu-dent loans. The federal investment isprojected to generate an additional$15.6 million in local support toincrease community impact andreturn on federal investment.

The current year’s AmeriCorpsgrant cycle was highly competitive,due to the strong demand by orga-nizations seeking AmeriCorpsresources. The 2016 competition

prioritized investments in econom-ic opportunity, education, veteransand military families, disaster ser-vices and continued a new initiativefor governors and mayors.

AmeriCorps engages more than75,000 members in intensive ser-vice annually to serve through non-profit, faith-based and communityorganizations at 21,000 locationsacross the country. These membershelp communities tackle pressingproblems while mobilizing millionsof volunteers for the organizationsthey serve.

Over the past two decades, morethan 980,000 Americans haveserved in AmeriCorps providingmore than 1.3 billion hours of ser-vice and earning more than $3.1billion in education scholarships.  

For information, visitNationalService.gov.

Becerra announces $8.3M in AmeriCorps funding

Sen. Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.)and 26 Senate colleagues have filedan amendment to the Commerce,Justice, Science Appropriations billto give the U.S. Justice Departmentadditional discretion in how it usesappropriated funds to conduct back-ground checks to keep guns out ofthe hands of known or suspected ter-rorists.

The amendment would give theattorney general the authority toblock the sale of guns or explosivesto known or suspected terrorists ifthe attorney general has a reasonablebelief that the weapons would beused for terrorism. The amendmentwas modified from legislation intro-duced in February 2015 to ensure itadheres to Senate rules for amend-ments added to appropriations bills.

The amendment also includes lan-guage proposed by Senators PatrickLeahy (D-Vt.) and Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) to ensure that anyone who hasbeen the subject of a federal terror-ism investigation in the past fiveyears would be automaticallyflagged in the existing backgroundcheck system for further review bythe U.S. Justice Department.

“In light of the worst mass shoot-ing in our nation’s history, the dan-gerous loophole in our laws thatallows known or suspected terroriststo legally purchase guns has againbeen exposed. We must act to closethis loophole,” Feinstein said. “Overthe past decade, 91 percent of indi-viduals who are known or suspectedterrorists passed background checks,showing this is a pervasive problem.

My amendment would simply allowthe attorney general to block gunsales to these individuals and closingthis loophole is the least we could doto reduce the risk of terrorist attacksin our country. I continue to workwith my colleagues in hopes ofreaching a compromise that can passthe Senate.”

Under current law, individualswho are known or suspected terror-ists and do not fall into the one of thenine prohibited purchaser categoriescan legally buy weapons. While theFBI is notified when individuals onthe terrorist watch list apply for abackground check through theNational Instant CriminalBackground Check system, it doesnot have the authority to block thesale.

Senator seeks tougher rules for gun background checks

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Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 7 June 23, 2016

Los Angeles City CouncilmanDavid Ryu, 4th District, recentlyjoined officials from the LosAngeles Department of Water andPower (LADWP), the Los AngelesBureau of Sanitation and the LosAngeles Zoo to announce theopening of Los Angeles’ RecycledWater Fill Station at the zoo.The fill station is open every

Tuesday from 8 to 11 a.m. for LosAngeles residents and businessowners who want to pick up free,disinfected recycled water for non-drinking uses like watering trees,shrubs and lawns. The recycledwater fill station pilot programhelps with water conservation byoffsetting demand for drinkingwater. The fill station is located onthe northern side of the L.A. Zooparking lot at 5333 Zoo Drive.Residents can receive up to 300

gallons of disinfected recycledwater. They must present theirLADWP bill and undergo a train-ing session to learn about theapproved uses and proper handlingof recycled water. Participantsmust also bring their own water-tight containers and sign a useragreement.“Due to existing efforts, L.A. is

using just as much water today aswe did 45 years ago, despite hav-ing a million more people,” Ryusaid. “Everyone is doing their partto conserve water and our effortsare admirable, but we need to cometogether to do even more. Nearly90 percent of the city’s water isimported from hundreds of milesaway. To lessen our reliance onimported water, the city is expand-ing and building its local watersupply. The Recycled Water FillStation at the Los Angeles Zoo willonly help further our city’s conser-vation efforts.”The fill station at the L.A. Zoo

parking lot receives recycled waterfrom the L.A.-Glendale WaterReclamation Plant.L.A. Zoo director John Lewis

said the zoo is committed to savingwater, and the new fill station isanother way residents can also help

conserve during the drought.“The Los Angeles Zoo is com-

mitted to the conservation of natur-al resources demonstrated by ourstormwater capturing parking lot,the installation of electric vehiclecharging stations and now partici-pating in this pilot program to pro-vide citizens one more way toreduce their use of potable water,”Lewis added. “The zoo encouragesneighbors and residents in theregion to take advantage of thisresource to conserve water nowand in the future.”Recycled water is wastewater

that has been processed throughprimary, secondary and tertiarytreatment and disinfected withchlorine. It meets State WaterResources Control Board stan-dards and safety regulations and issafe for all human contact exceptfor drinking.The Recycled Water Fill Station

pilot program will soon expandwith the opening of another fill sta-tion at the L.A.-Glendale WaterReclamation Plant, where cus-

tomers can also receive water onweekends. For information, visitwww.ladwp.com/RWFS.

City offers free recycled water for landscaping

photo courtesy of the 4th District Council OfficeCouncilman David Ryu (third from right), 4th District, was joined by offi-cials from the L.A. Zoo and the LADWP for the opening of a new recy-cled water filling station.

Meltzer honored with Link Award

photo courtesy of Barbara MeltzerBarbara Meltzer (left), of Barbara Meltzer & Associates Public

Relations and Marketing was recently honored with The Link Awardby the Los Angeles County Commission for Older Adults. She is pic-tured with the commission’s president Linda Yamauchi.The annual award is presented in recognition of outstanding volun-

teer service to seniors in Los Angeles County. It was the third timeMeltzer, a longtime volunteer, received the award.Meltzer was appointed to the commission in 2007 by then-

Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky, 3rd District, and reappointed by his suc-cessor, current Supervisor Sheila Kuehl. Due to term limits, June isMeltzer’s last month on the commission. She has served as chair ofthe commission’s communications committee and as lead commis-sioner for the 3rd District.

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8 June 23, 2016 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

BHPD targets speeding,noise violations

photo courtesy of the Beverly Hills Police DepartmentThe Beverly Hills Police Department recently held a traffic safety

enforcement operation on Sunset Boulevard from June 6 throughJune 12. Officers targeted speeders and motorists responsible fornoise violations. The department had received several complaintsabout noise violations. However, no excessive noise violations wereobserved. Many of the noise complaints were about loud exhaustnoise from exotic cars that use illegal exhaust systems.Officers issued 122 citations for for speeding and eight citations for

miscellaneous violations. Thirty-six warnings were given for speed-ing and two motorists were warned about miscellaneous violations.Three unlicensed drivers were arrested or were issued citations. Ninevehicles were impounded.The Beverly Hills Police Department plans to continue periodic

enforcement and traffic safety educational campaigns throughout theyear.

The Los Angeles Board ofSupervisors has approved a motionto create a Center for FinancialEmpowerment this fall to helpthousands of families reduce debtand save money.Fifteen percent of LA County

residents live below the officialpoverty line, but more than threetimes as many are “liquid assetpoor,” meaning they lack sufficientsavings to live above the povertylevel for three months if they lose ajob or suffer a financial emergency.“The New America Foundation

estimates that low to moderateincome county residents fail toclaim more than $370 million inFederal Earned Income Tax Creditfunds each year,” said SupervisorSheila Kuehl, 3rd District, who co-authored the motion. “Twenty-eight percent of county householdsdon’t have a bank account andoften rely on check-cashing storesand payday lenders with high inter-est rates that drain low-income res-idents’ meager savings. The countyneeds to help low-income residents

build household wealth.”The Center for Financial

Empowerment will initially coor-dinate and promote existing finan-cial services available for low-income residents such as financialliteracy education, free tax prepa-ration, access to benefits and con-sumer help in managing debt. TheCenter will open in September at

the Los Angeles Department ofConsumer and Business Affairs(DCBA).The center’s $570,000 first-year

budget will be funded by theDCBA along with a private foun-dation grant from Citi CommunityDevelopment.“Our new Center for Financial

Empowerment is about equity andthe opportunity to create financialassets for our communities.Researchers estimate that the typi-cal U.S.-born Mexican or African-American family holds just 1 per-cent of the wealth of a typicalwhite family in Los Angeles,” saidSupervisor Hilda Solis, 1stDistrict. “Without sufficient assets,our families are easily thrown offtrack by accidents, unexpectedexpenses and the smallest mis-takes. The Center for FinancialEmpowerment will help tens ofthousands of low-income L.A.households take a step up on theladder of American economicmobility by helping them buildhousehold wealth and resilience.”

Supervisors create center for financial empowerment

Mayor applauds response to ‘Welcome Home’ project

LGBT lawmakers celebratedocumentary film

photo courtesy of L.A. County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl’s OfficeLos Angeles County Supervisor Sheila Kuehl (third from left), 3rd

District, recently attended the world premiere of “Political Animals”at the Los Angeles Film Festival. The new documentary focuses onthe first openly LGBT members of the California Legislature, includ-ing Kuehl, Jackie Goldberg (third from right), Christine Kehoe (left)and Carole Migden (second from right).They are pictured with the film’s directors, Jonah Markowitz and

Tracy Wares. The film won the L.A. Film Festival’s Audience Awardand the Jury Award for Best Documentary.

Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) praisedPresident Barack Obama’sannouncement that a U.S.Department of Energy InnovationCenter will be established atUCLA.The Center – one of only nine in

the nation – will develop advancedsensors to monitor the use of ener-gy in manufacturing. Manufacturers use approximate-

ly one-third of the energy con-sumed in the country, and the newcenter will develop state-of-the-arttechnology to reduce and monitorenergy consumption.Lieu also praised the center for

promoting technology that will

create jobs in the Los Angelesarea.“[The] announcement of the

establishment of an advancedmanufacturing facility at UCLA iswelcome news for Los Angeles,California and our nation,” Lieusaid. “I applaud President Obama,Chancellor Block [and] the facultyand staff at UCLA for this innova-tive partnership that will certainlybe an important step forward inenergizing our manufacturing base– a key component of Americaneconomic leadership in the 21stcentury global economy. I lookforward to any and every opportu-nity to support UCLA in thisgroundbreaking work.”

Lieu credits new innovation centerwith potential to boost economy

Twenty-seven year Los AngelesDepartment of Building andSafety (LADBS) veteran FrankBush will has been appointed asthe agency’s new general manag-er, Mayor Eric Garcetti hasannounced.Bush currently serves as execu-

tive officer – the department’s sec-ond-ranking position. He willreplace outgoing general managerRaymond Chan, who has joinedthe Garcetti Administration asinterim deputy mayor for eco-nomic development. LADBSissues construction permits andenforces building and safety codesthroughout Los Angeles.“The Department of Building

and Safety needs a strong, effec-tive leader who can uphold ourrigorous safety standards whilekeeping pace with the surge ofgrowth we’re seeing across ourcity,” Garcetti said. “Frank Bush’s

decades of experience and out-standing track record with thedepartment make him a perfect fitfor this job.”Bush has served with LADBS

for nearly three decades. He beganhis career in the department as abuilding inspector and rosethrough the ranks to become exec-utive officer. He has held the posi-tion since 2014, managing morethan 1,000 employees and over-seeing all day-to-day operations.“I am honored to lead the

Department of Building andSafety at such a critical momentfor development in Los Angeles,”Bush said. “I am grateful toMayor Garcetti for this incredibleopportunity, and I look forward tohelping fulfill his vision for ourcity.”Bush’s appointment must go

before the Los Angeles CityCouncil for final confirmation.

New L.A. Department of Buildingand Safety head selected

“Without sufficientassets, our

families are easilythrown off track

by accidents,unexpected

expenses and thesmallest

mistakes.”-Los Angeles County

SupervisorHilda Solis, 1st District

Thousands of household itemsand lifestyle services have beendonated by hundreds of Angelenosand businesses as part of the“Welcome Home Project,” MayorEric Garcetti announced on June17.Launched in May 2016, the

“Welcome Home Project” is aneffort led by Mayor Garcetti toengage Angelenos in helping vul-nerable residents and to change theconversation about homelessness.The project recently surpassed itsgoal to assemble 100 “welcomehome” baskets for formerly home-less individuals who have beenrecently housed.“The Welcome Home Project

proves what is possible when resi-dents, the private sector, and Citygovernment join together to meetthe moral imperative of caring forthose who need our help most,”said Mayor Garcetti. “This projectreminds us that homelessAngelenos are not just statistics.They are people with stories, fami-lies, and dreams. I am proud to bemayor of a city where residents arewilling to do their part to help solvethis crisis.”

On June 17, volunteers fromacross Los Angeles gathered at FireStations 3 and 64 to sort, package,and label all of the baskets fordelivery.The following day was the “Big

Move In,” when volunteers deliv-ered finished baskets to formerlyhomeless Angelenos who recentlyreceived housing. “The LAFD is proud to stand

with Mayor Garcetti in the effort towelcome Angelenos into their newhomes,” said LAFD Chief RalphTerrazas. “We continue to workwith the Mayor, the City Counciland other agencies to address thecomplex issues and challengesrelated to homelessness.”Several private sector compa-

nies, including Dollar Shave Club,Lyft, and the Honest Company,have pledged donations to the pro-ject as well.“At Honest, we are on a mission

to help people live healthy andhappy lives, and giving back is atthe heart of what we do,” said CraigGatarz, executive vice president atthe Honest Company. “We are hon-ored to join the Mayor in support-ing the ‘Welcome Home Project’and we look forward to workingtogether on this and future initia-tives where our products and ser-vice can make a true difference inpeople’s lives.”“Dollar Shave Club is fortunate

to operate as a successful businessin Los Angeles,” said MichaelDubin, co-founder and CEO of theDollar Shave Club. “There are peo-ple all around us that are less fortu-nate. The Mayor’s commitment toeradicating homelessness is incred-ibly honorable, and Dollar ShaveClub is making a donation to theWelcome Home Project becausewe want to help people get back ontheir feet.”

Wesson launcheswebsite for constituentsLos Angeles City Council

President Herb Wesson, 10th dis-trict, this week launched a newwebsite to better connectAngelenos with government.Residents can read newsletters,press releases and other archivednews about Wesson and the citycouncil by visiting the website. The site also provides residents

with information about local ser-vices in the 10th Council Districtsuch as recreation centers, libraries,police and fire departments as wellas community events hosted byWesson. To promote civic engage-ment, a new feature allows citizensto get involved with their localneighborhood council. Citizens canalso write to Wesson. For information, visit www.herb-

wesson.com.

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Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 9 June 23, 2016

Assembly speaker honoredat Los Angeles City Hall

photo courtesy of the Fourth Council District OfficeCalifornia State Assembly, Anthony Rendon was recently honored

in Los Angeles City Hall. Rendon is the highest ranking officer of theAssembly, and is in charge of the overall management and supervisionof the Assembly. He is the 70th Speaker of the California StateAssembly. Rendon was joined by family, friends and colleagues, aswell as local and state legislators.

Los Angeles City CouncilmanJosé Huizar, 14th District, recentlyjoined Los Angeles Department oftransportation (LADOT) generalmanager Seleta Reynolds, represen-tatives of Mayor Eric Garcetti’soffice and the Los Angeles PublicWorks Commission for a ribbon-cutting to highlight newly installedLos Angeles Street SafetyImprovements in downtown LosAngeles.

The project, which cost approxi-mately $775,000 was funded withCalifornia TransportationDevelopment Act funds. It includesprotected bike lanes along LosAngeles Street from Alameda toFirst Street, four of the city’s first“bicycle-only traffic signals,” newtransit platforms for bus riders, andstreet resurfacing and re-striping,including new crosswalks.

Huizar, Reynolds, deputy mayorBarbara Romero, Public WorksCommission president KevinJames, and Bureau of StreetServices Director Nazario Saucedoended the ribbon cutting with a“ride-off” on official Metro BikeShare bicycles on the newly

installed bike lanes.The project is part of Garcetti’s

Vision Zero Plan and Huizar’sDTLA Forward initiative. VisionZero aims to improve pedestrian andbicyclist safety as part of a larger ini-tiative to eliminate traffic deaths by2025. DTLA Forward is focused onadding and improving publicspaces, as well as pedestrian andbicycle access in downtown LosAngeles. 

“L.A.’s transportation futuredepends on providing new optionsfor getting around our region, andmaking our streets safer and moreappealing for everyone who usesthem,” Garcetti said. “The newimprovements to Los Angeles Streethit all those marks, and they’re anexample of the kind of upgrades weare bringing citywide.” 

The Los Angeles Street Bicycleimprovements include bicyclist traf-fic signals at Arcadia, Aliso andTemple Streets. They follow theinstallation of the city’s first pedes-trian “Head Start Signals” in down-town Los Angeles, which givepedestrians a four-second head startas they enter 16 crosswalks.

“To meet the multimodal trans-portation needs of the future, the cityof Los Angeles needs to be innova-tive and creative in its approach,”Huizar said. “This program meetsthat standard and is one of manyCouncil District 14 pilot projectsthat allow us to prioritize bicycle,pedestrian and public-transit usersas much as automobiles. At theircore, Vision Zero and DTLAForward are about improving safeaccess to the public realm for allAngelenos.”

As part of the upgrades, transitbus station platforms are now locat-ed in the street between the protect-ed bike lane and first lane of traffic.The slightly elevated concrete busstation platforms give transit ridersdirect access to buses. They areADA compliant and enable buses topick-up and drop-off passengerswithout blocking the protected bikelanes on both sides of Los AngelesStreet.

“The Department of Public Worksis committed to designing, buildingand maintaining projects thatimprove quality of life for all L.A.residents,” James added.

LADOT installs safer bike lanes, street upgrades

A bill that strengthens California’sconflict of interest laws and restorespublic trust and accountability hasbeen approved by the StateAssembly Elections andRedistricting Committee on a bipar-tisan vote. Senate Bill 1011 nowgoes to the State Assembly LocalGovernment Committee.

SB 1011 will strengthen conflictof interest laws by expanding thedefinition of family and what consti-tutes a financial conflict of interestfor public officials voting on govern-ment contracts as members of gov-ernmental bodies, boards and com-missions.

“I am pleased that SB 1011 con-tinues to move forward,” Mendozasaid. “The bill sends a strong mes-sage that government officialsshould not use their positions toenrich themselves or their familymembers either directly or indirectly.SB 1011 will require elected andgovernment officials to abstain fromvoting on a public contract whentheir family members have a finan-cial interest or may benefit from theoutcome of that vote.”

SB 1011 will expand the defini-tion of “remote interest” in govern-ment contract decisions to includeparticipation in creating contractsdeemed to be of financial interest tothe public officer’s adult children,

parents and siblings, and the spousesof the children, parents and siblings.Public officials must have actualknowledge of the financial interestand are in violation only if he or sheknowingly withholds informationabout their financial interest from theboard or commission for which theyare a voting member.

“As public officials, we should beheld to the highest ethical standardsin order to avoid any conflicts ofinterest or perception of improprietywhen conducting business on thepublic’s behalf,” Mendoza said.

Anyone violating the new lawwill be permanently disqualifiedfrom holding any office in Californiaand will receive prison time and afine of not more than $1,000. Localdistrict attorneys and the CaliforniaAttorney General would have theauthority to investigate alleged vio-lations and discretion to pursuecriminal prosecution. If no criminalprosecution is pursued, the FairPolitical Practices Commission canproceed with administrative or civilaction.

Conflict of interest laws in manyother states are broader and providestronger protections to prevent pub-lic officials from using their govern-mental positions to financiallyenrich themselves or their families,Mendoza added.

Law would broaden conflict ofinterest rules for public officials

The Los Angeles City Councilhas unanimously voted to supportstrengthening AB 2844, whichwould prohibit California from par-ticipating in contracts with busi-nesses that engage or support theBoycott, Divestment, Sanctions(BDS) movement.

The current version of the bill hasbeen significantly weakened,according to Los Angeles CityCouncilman Bob Blumenfield, 3rdDistrict. BDS is a global movementdesigned to demonize and delegit-imize the State of Israel.

“My resolution shows that thecity of Los Angeles supports restor-

ing AB 2844 to its original form,”Blumenfield said.

A diverse group of supportersadvocated for the motion includingthe teamsters union and religiousleaders.

“In light of the recent shootingattack against the [LGBT] commu-nity in Orlando, and the fact thatvirtually all of Israel’s neighborshave no laws against honor killings,there has never been a better time toshow support for Israel and to takea stand against oppression and auto-cratic forms of government wherefreedom is restricted,” O’Farrellsaid.

Council supports bill opposinganti-Israel BDS movement

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The Los Angeles LGBT Centerhas released the Transgender YouthEmployment Toolkit as a resourcefor case managers and others to helpthem prepare transgender youth forthe workforce.“This toolkit supplements what

case managers already know aboutworking with young people, andprovides knowledge and resourcesspecific to working with transgen-der youth,” said Simon Costello, theLos Angeles LGBT Center’s direc-tor of children, youth and familyservices. “Transgender youth havethe same need for guidance andsupport as all youth. As a result oftheir diverse life experiences andtransgender identity, many experi-ence additional challenges andobstacles in entering the workforceand gaining meaningful employ-ment.”The Transgender Youth

Employment Toolkit was devel-oped as a part of the Transitions to

Work (T2W) project, a collaborationbetween the Los Angeles LGBTCenter, University of California, LosAngeles’ Community BasedLearning Program, the Los AngelesWorkforce Development Board, andthe Los Angeles Economic andWorkforce Development Depart-ment. The toolkit was funded bygrants from the CaliforniaWorkforce Development Board andthe Los Angeles Department onDisability, AIDS Coordinator’sOffice.

Launched in September 2014,T2W is a pilot project to address thechallenges and issues transgenderyouth face when entering the work-force. In the first phase, 14 trans-gender youth were chosen toreceive comprehensive employ-ment services over a nine-monthperiod. The experiences and bestpractices learned and developedwere included in the toolkit. For information and to review

the new toolkit, visit www.lalgbt-center.org.

10 June 23, 2016 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Thrive Decor, Diane Merrick mark final weeks with specials

photo by Edwin FolvenRandy Esada’s Thrive Decor and Diane Merrick on Beverly

Boulevard are offering 60 percent discounts on merchandise in antic-ipation of closing. Diane Merrick will close on June 30. Thrive willclose on July 7. Esada will open Prospr at 7407 Beverly Blvd. on July15. For information, email [email protected] or visitwww.prosprco.com.Thrive offers a mix of antique furniture and decorations, modern

and antique fine art and home furnishings. Diane Merrick offersclothing, accessories, jewelry, furniture and fine art. For information,call Thrive Décor at (323)934-0509, or visit www.thrivedecor.com.Call Diane Merrick at (323)930-0400, or visitwww.dianemerrick.com.

Hundreds of transgenderAngelenos on Monday attended theDiversity Job and Career Fair, anevent aimed at giving opportunitiesto a population that faces barriers toemployment and discrimination inthe workplace.The event, which was held at Los

Angeles Community College, fea-tured nearly 60 employers includ-ing Microsoft, Uber,NBCUniversal, and WarnerBrothers. More than 20 communityorganizations also conducted mockinterviews, offered résumé help andprovided information aboutresources available by the city ofLos Angeles’ WorkSource centersand the Los Angeles LGBT Center.“Everyone has the potential to

make a contribution in L.A.’sgrowing economy, but too manytransgender people are denied thatchance because of how they look orhow they identify” said Mayor EricGarcetti. “The Diversity Job andCareer Fair is part of a movementto widen the circle of opportunity,by connecting hardworkingAngelenos to employers that are

unconcerned with their sexual ori-entation or gender identity.”According to the National

Transgender Discrimination Survey,the unemployment rate for transgen-der people is twice that of the generalpopulation and nearly four times ashigh for transgender people of color.When unemployed, transgenderpeople are twice as likely to become

homeless or turn to sex work andillegal drug sales. Additionally, theyare 85 percent more likely to becomeincarcerated and twice as likely tobecome infected with HIV.The Diversity Job and Career Fair

is a joint effort between Garcetti,State Senate President pro TemKevin de León, the Los AngelesDepartment on Disability, the LosAngeles Workforce DevelopmentBoard, the Los Angeles Economicand Workforce DevelopmentDepartment, the Los Angeles LGBTCenter and the transgender commu-nity.“Members of LGBTQ communi-

ty often face irrational and illegal dis-crimination in the workplace, or onthe job hunt” de León said. “This jobfair provided training and network-ing opportunities to promote morediverse and tolerant workplace envi-ronments, as well as connectemployers with talented job seek-ers.”The event was the second trans-

gender job fair in the city’s history.The first was sponsored by then-councilman Garcetti in 2005.

Diversity job fair provides career opportunities

On June 16, Mayor Eric Garcettiand the Board of Public Worksannounced the Clean Streets L.A.Challenge, which will rewardneighborhood councils and othercommunity groups for innovativestrategies to keep streets clean andclear.The competition extends Mayor

Garcetti’s Clean Streets Initiative,awarding a total of $25,000 ingrants for creative and efficientproposals to prevent illegal dump-ing and keep neighborhoods clean.“Angelenos know their neigh-

borhoods best, and they take pridein where they live,” said MayorGarcetti. “The Challenge will tapinto their knowledge and that pas-sion and bring new energy to thework of keeping L.A.’s streetsclean for our families and neigh-bors.”The grant challenge is open to

Neighborhood Councils, commu-nity based organizations and non-profit groups. Applicants will berequired to form a partnershipacross three organizations, at leastone of which must be a neighbor-hood council. Successful applicants will then

start a pilot program, with resultsdue in November and winnersannounced at the end of the year.Groups will be evaluated on theirstrategies for recruiting volunteers,hosting clean-ups, reporting

dumped items and raising aware-ness on social media.“We are so inspired by all the

supporters of the Clean StreetsL.A. Initiative who have rallied toinitiate, create, and commit to localneighborhood and business corri-dor improvement efforts,” saidEnrique Zaldivar, general managerof L.A. Sanitation. “This contestaligns with our collective pursuitfor a better quality of life, econom-ic prosperity, and public health forall Angelenos.”“Neighborhood Councils are

doing amazing projects citywide tokeep their communities clean,”said Grayce Liu, general managerof the Department ofNeighborhood Empowerment.“We’re happy that the CleanStreets L.A. Challenge builds upontheir great work and providesopportunities for exciting collabo-rations.”The Clean Streets Initiative is

aimed at eliminating trash and ille-gal dumping from L.A. streets. Akey element of the initiative isCleanStat, which regularly surveysand grades the cleanliness of all citystreets. The results of the CleanStatassessment can be viewed atwww.cleanstreetsla.org/cleanstat.For more information on the

Clean Streets L.A. Challenge, visitlamayor.org/join-clean-streets-la-challenge.

Grant challenge seeks strategies to keep L.A. streets clean

“The Diversity Joband Career Fair ispart of a movementto widen the circleof opportunity, byconnecting hard-working Angelenosto employers thatare unconcernedwith their sexualorientation or

gender identity.”

-Mayor Eric Garcetti

‘Toolkit’ helps prepare trans youth for the workforce

The PickUpexpands with‘Sunday Funday’serviceThe PickUp, West Hollywood’s

transportation line, is offering“Sunday Funday” service throughSunday, Sept. 25. Riders can use The PickUp on

Sundays from 2 to 10 p.m. alongSanta Monica Boulevard. Nightservice will continue on its regularschedule on Fridays and Saturdaysfrom 8 p.m. to 3 a.m.The PickUp is a free and fun way

to reach destinations throughoutWest Hollywood. It runs alongSanta Monica Boulevard in a four-mile loop with 15 stops in eachdirection between RobertsonBoulevard and La Brea Avenue.PickUp trolleys arrive at stops

every 15 minutes and feature musicmixes by DJ Derek Monteiro.Riders can also take perk cardsoffering discounts from participat-ing businesses. For information,visit www.wehopickup.com.

The city of West Hollywood andthe West Hollywood Chamber ofCommerce (WHCC) will host the“State of The City” event onThursday, June 23 from 5 to 8 p.m.at The London Hotel.The city and the chamber partner

annually to host the event, whichengages business leaders and the

community in a conversation aboutnew initiatives, economic trendsand innovations.This year’s theme is “A Vibrant

West Hollywood.” A panel willexplore strategies to keep the cityvibrant. For information, call(323)650-2688, or email [email protected].

‘State of the City’ examines economic trends in WeHo

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Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 11 June 23, 2016

BHBA welcomes stateSupreme Court justices

photo by Lee SalemApproximately 300 attorneys and legal professionals recently

attended the the Beverly Hills Bar Association’s (BHBA) 62nd annu-al “Supreme Court Luncheon,” which honored the justices of theCalifornia Supreme Court. Six of the seven justices attended the June1 event at The Beverly Hilton. Chief Justice Tani G. Cantil-Sakauyediscussed the state court system budget and California State Barreform issues. She was joined by Associate Justices Ming W. Chin,Carol A. Corrigan, Mariano-Florentino Cuéllar, Leondra R. Krugerand Kathryn Mickle Werdegar. 

Pictured is BHBA president Howard S. Fredman with Los AngelesCounty District Attorney Jackie Lacey, who gave the keynote speech.Scholarships were also presented to seven economically disadvan-taged local law students involved in public service. Additionally, theBHBA presented awards to the winners of its annual “Rule of LawWriting Competition.” The BHBA’s annual Supreme CourtLuncheon was started in 1954 and presented in conjunction with theBeverly Hills Bar Foundation. For information, visit www.bhba.org.

Legislation to outlaw the prac-tice of infecting computers withransomware and making it thecriminal equivalent of extortionhas passed the Assembly PublicSafety Committee.

SB 1137, authored by Sen. BobHertzberg (D-Van Nuys), wasapproved on a bipartisan 7-0 vote.Ransomware is software thatallows a computer hacker to accesscomputers, hold them hostage anddemand payment to stop the attack.If SB 1137 is approved, a personengaged in the activity could beconvicted of a felony and receivesentence of up to four years in jail.

“Ransomware attacks havebecome a major threat to all inter-net users,” Hertzberg said. “This isessentially an electronic stickup,and we need to treat it with thesame seriousness and severity wewould treat any stickup.”

Ransomware attacks have sky-rocketed this year and becomeincreasingly sophisticated, target-ing hospitals, health care organiza-tions and major public institutions.More than $209 million in ran-somware payments were paid inthe United States during the firstthree months of 2016, according tothe FBI, compared to $25 millionpaid in all of last year. In February,a ransomware attack targetingHollywood Presbyterian MedicalCenter prompted the hospital topay a $17,000 ransom in bitcoin torestore access to its computer sys-tem.

The full extent of the ran-somware attacks is difficult toassess because victims are some-times reluctant to come forwardand businesses, which have afinancial incentive to protect theircredibility and reputation, don’twant the public to know if theircybersecurity has been breached.

Ransomware often goes beyondextorting money. It can allow hack-ers to steal passwords and gainaccess to bank accounts or otherprivate or sensitive informationthat can be used for identity theft,Hertzberg said.

Even if ransom is paid, attackers

rarely unlock the victim’s comput-er. For those who don’t fall for thescam but instead try to regain con-trol of their computer, it canrequire the costly assistance of aprofessional computer technician.

The legislation is co-sponsoredby Los Angeles County DistrictAttorney Jackie Lacey andTechNet, a bipartisan trade organi-zation that advocates for technolo-gy companies. The district attor-ney’s office issued a statement insupport of the bill.

“SB 1137 provides a clear codesection to prosecute this specifictype of computer crime,” thestatement read. “SB 1137 alsoprovides prosecutors a muchneeded tool to prosecute attackerswho use ransomware becauseCalifornia’s existing extortionstatute may not properly cover thetype of harm caused by ran-somware.”

Law will criminalize ransomware attacks

Congressman Lieu promoted to rank of Air Force colonel

What does CAMBRAmean for you?

[This is the second of a three-part series]

The usual suspects in the diseaseof caries are:• Bacteria • pH • Diet • Saliva • Genetics

I want to cover bacteria and pH togethersince they are very hard to separate.Cavities are really a pH driven biofilm (theentire mass of different bacteria found inthe sticky film on teeth) disease meaningthat if the biofilm gets acidic then nicebacteria can start behaving badly. Nolonger are there only 3 bacteria thatcause cavities, but in acidic biofilms over40 bacteria have been identified as play-ers. When the pH of the environmentgoes below 5.5 minerals can be lost fromthe tooth structure and this is the firstpart of the cavity process. When the pHgoes back up over 5.5 the minerals canbe replaced from minerals found in thesaliva and no harm no foul. You get acavity when you don’t allow for reminer-alization.

Diet plays the following role. Let’s as-sume that every time you have a mealthere is some form of carbohydrate in-volved so there is food for the bacteria inthe biofilm on your teeth. This meansacid production by the bacteria interact-ing with the carbs in your food. It takes30 minutes for your mouth to level theplaying field back to a neutral pH. Whileit may be obvious to you that sugardrives the pH down so does consump-tion of acidic beverages like sodas,juices, Gatorade and even some bottledwaters (surprise here).

In addition, constant snacking sways thependulum to having more of these acidexposures. And it is not just the 30 min-utes of having the acids attack yourteeth, during these acid exposures thebad bacteria in the biofilm start to growmore aggressively and also get the goodbacteria to start behaving badly.

Jonathan Engel, DDSEstella Goldman, DDS

5901 W. Olympic Blvd. Suite 205Los Angeles, CA 90036

323.934.3341www.socaldentalhealth.com

Call today for your complimentary

CariScreen CariesSusceptibility Test(will YOU get cavities?)

& Velscope oral cancer screening

at your new patient exam.

RE “To our new Beverly Hillsreaders,” June 16 issue

Congratulations on expandingyour coverage to the city ofBeverly Hills. More and more, itseems that the Beverly Press willbecome the major source of newson local happenings, while theL.A. Times limits itsfocus  to  statewide, national andworld news.

I am pleased to see that, thanksto Los Angeles City CouncilmanDavid Ryu, over $1-million hasbeen found to repair some of theconcrete streets in Hancock Park,despite their much higher costthan conventional asphalt. If itweren’t for him, the residents ofthat area would probably still bewaiting – after three years.

Now, perhaps the city can findits way to providing the mere$60,000 the city’s labs requestedfor necessary tests of the pro-posed modification, based onestablished Department ofDefense/aerospace materials

technology, as recommended bya special aerospace and universi-ty volunteer team of expertsworking with the city’s Bureau ofStreet Services on the “Get Rid ofthe Potholes” project.

George EpsteinDetroit Street

RE “L.A. Pride festival line-upoffers something for all”

And “AIDS LifeCycle pedalsthrough WeHo, June 9 issue

While waiting in line to go tothe gay pride festival at WeHoPark, it suddenly occurred to me,“Why am I here when I could seethe AIDS LifeCycle riders com-ing into town over at FairfaxHigh?” So I biked over there andam so glad I did. Hearing the GayMen’s Chorus welcome the riderswith the song “True Colors” wastruly the meaning of Pride.

Brad KeistlerWest Hollywood

Letters to the EditorCongratulations onBeverly Hills expansion

AIDS LifeCyclists epitomized L.A.Pride

“This is essentially an

electronic stickup,and we need totreat it with the

same seriousnessand severity wewould treat any

stickup.”-Sen. Bob Hertzberg

Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) has been pro-moted from lieutenant colonel tothe rank of colonel in the UnitedStates Air Force. 

Lieu served four years of activeduty in the Air Force and currentlyserves in the Air Force Reserves.He has 20 years of service.

The promotion was made officialin a ceremony on June 15 conduct-ed by Secretary of the Air ForceDeborah Lee James. Lieu wasjoined by family, friends andguests, including HouseDemocratic Leader Nancy Pelosi,House Democratic Whip StenyHoyer and Veterans AffairsSecretary Robert McDonald.

Lieu’s promotion to colonel is arare event.  Of the 660,000 men andwomen serving in the United StatesAir Force, fewer than 4,000 haveattained the rank of colonel. Duringhis Air Force career, Lieu served inOperation Pacific Haven. He hasalso received numerous medals forhis military service, including theAir Force Humanitarian ServiceMedal and multiple MeritoriousService Medals.

“As the son of immigrant par-ents who were able to achieve theAmerican dream, I joined the AirForce on active duty and decidedto continue to serve in the reservesto give back to America – anexceptional country of boundlessopportunity that has given so muchto my family,” Lieu said. “I amdeeply humbled to be promoted tocolonel. It is a profound honor tobe a part of the United States AirForce, a stalwart and steadfast fam-

ily made up of imminently dedi-cated and skilled professionalswho do so much to safeguardAmerica in the air, in space and incyberspace.”

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12 June 23, 2016 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Farmers Market6333 W. Third St.

LAX Santa Monica1260 3rd St.

www.mrmarcel.com323.939.7792

New class atWildwood OvensLearn to prepare Brazilian-style

barbecue at a class on Saturday,June 25 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at atWildwood Ovens in Eagle Rock.Chef Michael Gerard will teachguests how to select proper cuts, aswell as how to trim, season, skewer,carve and control temperature.Meats include alcatra (top sirloin),lombo (pork loin), costella (beefrib) and frango (chicken breast

wrapped in bacon). Participantswill also make authentic Brazilianpao de queijo (cheese bread) andBrazilian-style rice and beans. Thefee is $200. 5020 Eagle RockBlvd., (323)255-6578.

Public School beer weekCelebrate L.A. Beer Week at

Public School through Sunday,June 26 with special “After SchoolKegger” events. Each day, Public

School will have an onsite compe-tition among three beers to seewhich keg “kicks” first. The win-ning brew will be placed on PublicSchool’s rotating tap list all sum-mer. Tonight, June 23, PublicSchool 818 is staging a FirestoneWalker Tap invasion with beer vari-eties including Parabola, Pale 31,Nitro Merlin, Luponic Distortion,Opal, Pivo and Easy Jack-Unfiltered DBA. 5300 VenturaBlvd., #102G, Sherman Oaks,(818)728-9818.

Golden Road partyCelebrate Golden Road’s newest

beer Wolf Pup on Sunday, June26 with a 5K run followed by a

summer pub party. Exercise andthen relax with a crisp cold beer.Participants can also splash aroundin an adult-sized kiddie pool.Admission is $10 and includes free-flowing craft brew, food truck fare,DJs, a photo booth and a corn holegame. The event runs from 9 a.m.to 1 p.m. 5410 W. San FernandoRoad. www.goldenroad.la.

Boozy ice creamThe made-to-order scoop shop

Smitten Ice Cream at The Pointis launching its new whiskey chip-flavored ice cream, availablethrough Monday, June 27. It’smade with a whiskey-infused sweetcream ice cream and milk choco-

late chips. Later this summer,Smitten will offer mojito-flavoredice cream. Each boozy flavor in theseries will be available for a limitedtime on a rotating basis, and newflavors will be announced through-out the year.  850 S. SepulvedaBlvd., (424)220-7100.

Dine at theHollywood Bowl Executive chef Suzanne Goin

and her business partnerCaroline Styne of Lucques Grouphave created a new culinary pro-gram at the Hollywood Bowl. The

RREESSTTAAUURRAANNTT NNEEWWSSBy Jill Weinlein

Restaurant News page 13

Piedmontese Tri-Tip Roast

66333333 WW.. TThhiirrdd SStt..FFaarrmmeerrss MMaarrkkeett •• 332233..993388..55113311

wwwwww..mmaarrccoonnddaass..ccoommFamily Owned at the Farmers Market

for 75 Years

No AntibioticsNo PreservativesHumanely Raised

Trimmed

$998per lb

While supplies last!

GREATPRICE!

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Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 13 June 23, 2016

4th of July!

5969 Melrose Ave. (corner of Wilcox)(323)467-7124

BANG!

10% off all merchandise in the storewith this coupon!

discounted merchandise, balloons and balloon delivery excluded

Our decorations will put a in

your Independence Day

celebration!!

Walking into the Italiansupper club La DolceVita in Beverly Hills, my

friends and I felt as if we steppedback in time. The restaurant wasopened in 1966 by former VillaCapri waiters Jimmy Ullo andGeorge Smith. Investors includedFrank Sinatra and movie starGeorge Raft who were looking todine at a traditional New York styleItalian restaurant. Off the beatentrack on Little Santa Monica Blvd,this location didn’t attract as muchattention from photographers as didother celebrity dining destinationsduring the 1960s.The interior looks like a movie

set. It was designed by five-timeAcademy Award winner LyleWheeler, the premier set designerof 20th Century-Fox Studios.We sat in “The Reagans” red

leather booth and my friend regaledus with illustrious stories aboutloyal patrons, Frank and BarbaraSinatra. One night, Sinatra gaveeach server $100, after learning thewait staff was a little disappointedwith the guests’ tips. Another timehe gave one of the dishwashers hisgold watch. One of Sinatra’sfavorite staff members was Ruben

Castro, the maitre d’ for over 40years. One evening in the 1980s,Frank and Barbara pulled up to therestaurant in a Jaguar, and thepaparazzi were in full force. Castrooffered to drive the couple homeafter their dinner in his own 1960sPontiac to throw off the photogra-phers. Sinatra was so appreciativethat he wanted to give Castro aRolls Royce, but Castro politelydeclined. I recognized my colleague, and

legendary restaurant reviewer JayWeston, sitting in the dining room.As he left his booth, he stopped byour table and told us he dined withSinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. in the

Sinatra booth 50 years ago. Celebrity stories aside, we settled

in for a traditional Italian dinner.General Manager MelissaStrickland discussed the menu withus and recommended a few winepairings. Strickland has been working in

the restaurant for 10 years and istraining to be a level two sommeli-er.She recommended a glass of

white Anaba to pair with thecreamy mushroom risotto withshaved black truffles. “It stylistical-ly is a true chardonnay, rich with anessence of clove, vanilla and but-tery on the nose. It’s refined andrestrained,” she said. The bartenders shake up classic

cocktails and update the drinks withfarm-to-bar ingredients. One of myfavorites is the Aviation made withPlymouth gin, lemon, luxardomaraschino liqueur and crème deviolette. The Aviation cocktail wasoriginally created by Hugo Ensslin,head bartender at the Hotel Wallickin New York City in 1911. Thiscocktail has a purple glow.

Many staff members have beenat La Dolce Vita for quite sometime, like our waiter Jose who hasbeen there for 20 years. “I’m a new-bie, compared to some that havebeen here 35 and 40 years,” he said. The large menu in an old-school

leather folder offers classic dishes

like pasta, scampi, veal, steak andchops. The sand dabs remain on themenu in honor of Nancy Reagan. Afew new items include uni and crabAlfredo, Chilean sea bass and pas-tas made from scratch. The Caesarsalad is infused with garlic, lemonjuice and parmesan cheese thatgives it a zip with each bite. We enjoyed the shrimp Fra

Diabolo served with angel hairpasta. The name means “brotherdevil” or “spicy” in Italian. Theseshrimp pack a slight heat kick andare delicious.For entrées, we ordered the sig-

nature chicken parmesan and thesignature steak Sinatra. It was thecrooner’s favorite. On the plate wasa prime 8oz. filet mignon with

sautéed peppers and a flavorful,burgundy colored Chianti demi-glace sauce. The chicken parm wasdelizioso!Be sure not to skip the tiramisu at

La Dolce Vita – it is one of the bestin Los Angeles and the perfect end-ing to our meal.The restaurant is celebrating its

50th anniversary. Throughout theyear, owner Alessandro Uzielli isoffering exclusive celebratoryevents. La Dolce Vita was recentlynamed one of the best Italianrestaurants in Beverly Hills. $$$ The restaurant is open for

dinner Sunday-Thursday from 5–10 p.m. and Friday-Saturday from5–11 p.m. 9785 Santa MonicaBlvd. (310)278-1845.

photo by Jill WeinleinA white Anaba wine pairs well with the creamy mushroom risotto at LaDolce Vita.

By Jill Weinlein

New York style Italian supper club

The menu – an old-school leather folder –

offers classic disheslike pasta, scampi,

veal, steak and chops.The sand dabs remainon the menu in honor

of Nancy Reagan.

dynamic duo is known for seasonalartisanal menus and products, andexceptional wine pairings. Theirrestaurants include a.o.c., Lucques,Tavern and Larder BakingCompany. In 2005, Goin and herhusband, chef David Lentz, openedThe Hungry Cat, which has sinceexpanded to locations in SantaMonica and Santa Barbara. Goinalso recently received the 2016James Beard Award forOutstanding Chef. Her new Food +Wine program at the Bowl includestwo full-service restaurants, boxseat service, items available at theBowl Marketplaces and street foodfrom around the world. Wood firedpizzas and rotisserie chicken dishesare available for picnics or to taketo seats. An a.o.c. wine bar is locat-ed near the Pool Circle, GardenSeats, Terrace Box and Super Seatssections. Beer includes local selec-tions from Golden Road Brewerythat pair well with items fromKitchen Twenty-Two, which servesAmerican classics such as beef andturkey burgers, and pork burgerswith manchego and romescocheeses. Healthy fare, street tacos,sushi and Vietnamese banh misandwiches are also offered. Saveroom for treats and coffee from theMarketplace Sweet Shop, andcookies, brownies and summerstrawberry shortcake at The LarderBaking Company. 2301 N.Highland Ave., (323)850-2000.

Global Dinner at VivianeViviane’s executive chef

Michael Hung kicks off sum-mer with a new globally-inspireddinner menu featuring rustic, share-able plates. The dishes spotlightCalifornia seasonal ingredientswith surprising twists of flavorsfrom Europe, the Near East and FarEast, North Africa and LatinAmerica. Dishes include tai snap-per kinilaw – a Filipino ceviche;baked Marin Creamery brie;mafalde pasta with star anise-braised quail; and saffron-scentedfried jasmine rice with confit duck,kale and sundried blueberries.Viviane is also serving 10-ounce,cast iron-roasted bone-in New Yorkstrip steaks with sundried tomatoX.O. sauce. 9400 W. OlympicBlvd., (310)407-7791.

Obicà Santa Monicasummer lunchObicà pays homage to its Italian

roots by importing classicmozzarella available for lunchitems on the a la carte or $15 prix-fixe menus. Choose an appetizerand entrée including pasta withhomemade Genovese basil pesto,potatoes and string beans, and free-range chicken breast with babyspinach, microgreens, radish, sun-dried tomatoes, pomegranate andbalsamic vinaigrette. Obicà’s 100specialty Italian wines are alsoavailable during lunch, including$6 glasses of the wine. 606

Broadway, Santa Monica,(310)393-6633.

Aloft El SegundoStarwood Hotels’ Aloft El

Segundo presents Re:Fuel byAloft, a new grab-and-go diningoption open 24 hours. Aloft ElSegundo is located one mile fromLAX and is a sister property of theW Hotel. Guests can also refuelwith cocktails at the W XYZ Bar,open from 4 p.m. to midnight. Thesetting combines an urban-technodesign and a vibrant social scene.The new hotel is also within walk-ing distance of shops, restaurantsand entertainment. Their AirportParking Package includes accom-modations in a loft-inspired guestroom and parking for up to sevendays. Staff will shuttle guests to andfrom LAX; mention LAPKG1when making reservations. 475 N.Sepulveda Blvd., (866)716-8143.

Lakeside LoungeDescanso Gardens is offering a

craft beer party with picnicfare by Patina every Wednesdaythrough July 27 from 5 to 8 p.m.The party is included withDescanso Gardens admission. Walkto the rose garden and oak wood-land area for a cold beer and relaxwith the sounds of The FlashdanceDJs, or stroll around the lake untilthe sun sets. A changing craft beermenu is available, as well asgourmet hot dogs and other sum-mer favorites. 1418 DescansoDrive, (818)949-4290.

Restaurant NewsFrom page 12

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14 June 23, 2016 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

POLICE BLOTTERThe following crimes occurred in West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and theareas patrolled by the LAPD’s Wilshire and Hollywood divisions betweenJune 5 and June 18. The information was compiled from www.crimemap-ping.com and reports from the Beverly Hills Police Department. To report acrime, call Los Angeles Police Department, Wilshire Division (213)473-0489, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department West Hollywood Station(310)855-8850, and the Beverly Hills Police Department, (310)550-4951.

June 5An unknown suspect committed aburglary in the 9500 block ofWilshire.

June 6A grand theft was reported in the500 block of Arden Drive. No sus-pect information was available.

An unknown suspect committedidentity theft in the 100 block of N.Hamilton Drive.

An unknown African Americanmale suspect committed identitytheft in the 300 block of N. RodeoDrive.

An identity theft was reported inthe 100 block of Reeves Drive. Nosuspect information was available.

June 7A Caucasian female suspect com-mitted a grand theft in the 9100block of Olympic.

An unknown suspect committed agrand theft in the 200 block of N.Canon Drive.

A theft was reported in the 300block of N. Palm. No suspect infor-mation was available.

Two unknown Caucasian malesuspects committed a grand theftin the 9500 block of Brighton Way.

June 8Two unknown suspects, one aCaucasian man and the other anAfrican American woman, commit-ted a burglary in the 400 block ofN. Doheny.

An unknown suspect committed aburglary in the 9100 block ofWilshire.

A Caucasian male suspect and aCaucasian female suspect com-mitted a theft in the 400 block of N.Rodeo Drive.

A grand theft was reported in the400 block of N. Palm. No informa-tion on the suspect was available.

An unknown suspect committed agrand theft in the 200 block of N.Rodeo Drive.

June 9Two unknown African Americanmale suspects committed a bur-glary in the 300 block of N. BeverlyDrive.

June 10An unknown African Americanfemale suspect assaulted a victimin the 500 block of Bedford Drive.

An unknown suspect committed aburglary in the 400 block of Rodeo.

An identity theft was reported inthe 100 block of Canon Drive.

An unknown suspect committed agrand theft in the 300 block ofFoothill Road.

June 11An unknown suspect committed a

burglary in the 400 block of N.Palm.

June 12Four unknown African Americanmale suspects committed a bur-glary in the 9700 block of Wilshire

June 13At 12:20 a.m., an unknown sus-pect robbed a victim near the cor-ner of Selma and Schrader.

An unknown suspect stole a vehi-cle parked in the 1100 block of S.Ridgeley at 12:30 a.m.

At 1 a.m., an unknown suspectburglarized a vehicle parked in the400 block of Holt.

An unknown suspect committed apetty theft in the 2000 block of S.Holt at 8:30 a.m.

At 10 a.m., an unknown suspectburglarized a vehicle parked in the7000 block of Hollywood.

An unknown suspect committed apetty theft in the 900 block of N. LaCienega at 10 a.m.

At 11 a.m., an unknown suspectassaulted a victim near the cornerof Whitley and Franklin.

An unknown suspect committed apetty theft in the 5100 block ofPico at 12:15 p.m.

At 1 p.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a petty theft in the 700block of S. Norton.

An unknown suspect burglarized avehicle parked in the 800 block ofHilldale at 1:23 p.m.

At 5:30 p.m., an unknown suspectburglarized a vehicle parked in the1400 block of N. Alta Vista.

An unknown suspect committed aburglary in the 1000 block ofCrescent Heights at 6:30 p.m.

At 7 p.m., an unknown suspectstole a vehicle parked in the 5000block of Institute.

An unknown suspect committed apetty theft in the 1100 block ofKeniston at 7:30 p.m.

At 7:30 p.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a petty theft in the 1100block of Fuller.

An unknown suspect committed aburglary in the 300 block of S. LasPalmas at 8 p.m.

At 8 p.m., an unknown suspectburglarized a vehicle parked in the700 block of N. Van Ness.

An unknown suspect committed apetty theft in the 6500 block of W.Sunset at 8:15 p.m.

At 8:30 p.m., an unknown suspectstole a vehicle parked in the 1200block of Muirfield.

An unknown suspect burglarized avehicle parked in the 1100 block ofCrenshaw at 9 p.m.

At 9:30 p.m., an unknown suspectassaulted a victim in the 7600block of Beverly.

An unknown suspect committed apetty theft in the 7600 block ofMelrose at 9:30 p.m.

At 10:40 p.m., an attempted rob-bery was reported in the 8000block of Beverly.

A suspect committed a theft in the8500 block of Beverly at 11 p.m.

June 14An unknown suspect committed apetty theft in the 1000 block of N.Martel at 7:22 a.m.

An unknown suspect burglarized avehicle parked in the 6500 block ofYucca at 1 p.m.

At 2 p.m., an unknown suspectburglarized a vehicle parked in the1000 block of N. Laurel.

An unknown suspect committed apetty theft in the 600 block of N.Western.

At 2:20 p.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a grand theft in the6900 block of Hollywood.

A suspect committed a burglary inthe 900 block of Kings at 3 p.m.

At 3:45 p.m., an unknown suspectrobbed a victim near the corner ofOxford and Sixth.

An unknown suspect burglarized avehicle parked in the 600 block ofN. Saint Andrews at 4 p.m.

At 5 p.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a burglary in the 6100block of Maryland.

An unknown suspect robbed a vic-tim near the corner of Beverly andLarchmont at 5:10 p.m.

At 5:20 p.m., an unknown suspectburglarized a vehicle parked in the7300 block of Beverly.

An unknown suspect assaulted avictim in the 1200 block of N.Beachwood at 6 p.m.

At 7 p.m., an unknown suspectburglarized a vehicle parked in the300 block of N. Citrus.

An unknown suspect burglarized avehicle parked in the 400 block ofFormosa at 8 p.m.

At 10 p.m., an unknown suspectburglarized a vehicle parked in the5500 block of Sierra Vista.

An unknown suspect committed apetty theft in the 1700 block ofHudson at 10:30 p.m.

At 11:54 p.m., an unknown sus-pect assaulted a victim in the 600block of Robertson.

June 15At 3:50 a.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a burglary in the 5800block of Harold Way.

An unknown suspect committed apetty theft in the 5400 block ofWilshire at 6 a.m.

At 6:25 a.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a petty theft in the 1200block of Tamarind.

An unknown suspect burglarized avehicle parked in the 3800 block ofWilshire at 10 a.m.

At 10:45 a.m., an unknown sus-pect committed a petty theft in the200 block of S. Normandie.

An unknown suspect committed apetty theft in the 400 block of S. LaBrea at 2:50 p.m.

At 3 p.m., an unknown suspectstole a bicycle in the 1700 block ofS. Garth.

An unknown suspect committed a

theft near the corner of Orangeand Romaine at 3:30 p.m.

At 4 p.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a petty theft in the 300block of N. Sycamore.

An unknown suspect committed atheft in the 6800 block ofHollywood at 4:30 p.m.

At 5 p.m., an unknown suspectstole a vehicle parked in the 6300block of Hollywood.

An unknown suspect robbed a vic-tim in the 1500 block of Cassil at5:20 p.m.

At 6:30 p.m., an unknown suspectburglarized a vehicle parked in the400 block of S. Oxford.

An unknown suspect burglarized avehicle parked in the 8500 block ofBeverly at 8:55 p.m.

At 10 p.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a petty theft in the 6500block of Hollywood.

An unknown suspect stole a vehi-cle parked near the corner ofBronson and Hollywood at 10:15p.m.

At 11:30 p.m., an unknown sus-pect burglarized a vehicle parkedin the 800 block of Bedford.

An unknown suspect assaulted avictim in the 600 block ofRobertson at 11:54 p.m.

June 16At 12:37 a.m., an unknown sus-pect burglarized a vehicle parkedin the 200 block of Alta Vista.

An unknown suspect assaulted avictim near the corner of Ivar andHollywood at 1:50 a.m.

At 2:10 a.m., an unknown suspectrobbed a victim in the 900 block ofPalm.

An unknown suspect committed apetty theft near the corner ofHighland and Odin at 9 a.m.

At 11:30 a.m., an unknown sus-pect committed a burglary in the200 block of N. Hobart.

An unknown suspect committed apetty theft in the 6300 block of W.Sunset at 2 p.m.

At 2 p.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a petty theft in the 6300block of W. Sunset.

An unknown suspect committed aburglary in the 300 block of S.Norton at 3:30 p.m.

At 5:30 p.m., an unknown suspectassaulted a victim in the 7700block of Santa Monica.

An unknown suspect committed agrand theft in the 800 block ofOxford at 6 p.m.

At 6:15 p.m., an unknown suspectassaulted a victim in the 3300block of W. Olympic.

An unknown suspect burglarized avehicle parked in the 1200 block ofN. Mansfield at 6:30 p.m.

An unknown suspect burglarized avehicle parked in the 1900 block ofN. Argyle at 7:30 p.m.

An unknown suspect committed agrand theft in the 8600 block ofBurton Way at 8:30 p.m.

At 10:10 p.m., an unknown sus-pect assaulted a victim near thecorner of Highland and Sunset.

An unknown suspect burglarized avehicle parked in the 1300 block ofN. Detroit at 11 p.m.

At 11:20 p.m., an unknown sus-

pect stole a vehicle parked nearLexington and Seward.

June 17At 5:45 a.m., an unknown suspectassaulted a victim in the 1200block of N. Formosa.

An unknown suspect stole a vehi-cle parked in the 1000 block of S.Sycamore at 7:15 a.m.

At 11:35 a.m., an unknown sus-pect robbed a victim in the 5700block of Hollywood.

A suspect stole a bicycle in the 600block of N. Alta Vista at 1 p.m.

At 2 p.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a petty theft in the 7000block of W. Sunset.

An unknown suspect stole a vehi-cle parked in the 8900 block ofSunset at 6:30 p.m.

At 6:40 p.m., an unknown suspectassaulted a victim in the 1000block of Gardner.

An unknown suspect stole a vehi-cle parked in the 1500 block of S.Sherbourne at 7 p.m.

At 7:20 p.m., an unknown suspectrobbed a victim in the 300 block ofS. Manhattan.

An unknown suspect committed aburglary in the 5000 block ofEdgewood at 9 p.m.

At 9:55 p.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a burglary in the 4900block of Wilshire.

An unknown suspect assaulted avictim in the 400 block of N.Rossmore at 10 p.m.

At 10:30 p.m., an unknown sus-pect stole a vehicle parked nearthe corner of First and Western.

A suspect burglarized a vehicleparked in the 4400 block ofFrancis at 11 p.m.

June 18At 12:40 a.m., an unknown sus-pect committed a theft in the 8400block of Beverly.

An unknown suspect robbed a vic-tim near the corner of La Brea andHawthorn at 3:20 a.m.

At 8:15 a.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a petty theft in the 800block of S. Le Doux.

An unknown suspect burglarized avehicle parked in the 7100 block ofBeverly at 10 a.m.

At 11 a.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a grand theft in the8400 block of W. Third.

An unknown suspect burglarized avehicle parked in the 5700 block ofCarlton Way at noon.

At 2 p.m., an unknown suspectcommitted a petty theft in the 8200block of Norton.

A suspect burglarized a vehicleparked near Curson andMetropolitan Plaza at 5:30 p.m.

At 7:30 p.m., an unknown suspectstole a vehicle parked in the 1500block of N. Martel.

An unknown suspect stole a vehi-cle parked near the corner ofOlympia and Victoria at 8 p.m.

At 8 p.m., an unknown suspectstole a vehicle parked in the 500block of Fuller.

An unknown suspect stole a vehi-cle parked in the 6300 block ofYucca at 10 p.m.

Page 15: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 15 June 23, 2016

July is National Hot Dog Month!BITE into this targeted audience in our specialsection publishing July 7

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Francis Ford Coppola receivesUCLA Distinguished VanguardDirector Award

Director Francis Ford Coppola was recently recognized at the 25thannual UCLA TFT Film Festival Directors Spotlight at the Directors Guildof America. Coppola (center), a UCLA alum, is known as a living masterof cinema. He was part of the “New Hollywood” group in the 1970s withfilms such as “Patton,” “The Godfather,” “The Great Gatsby” and“Apocalypse Now.” Coppola continues to write and direct.

Other award recipients included UCLA student director Marta Savina,who received the Outstanding Drama, Outstanding Achievement inEditing and Myrl Schreibman Award. Other winners included GayatriBajpai, who received an award for Outstanding Comedy; Reed Van Dyk,who was awarded for Outstanding Achievement in Directing andScreenwriting; Soraya Selene, who was honored for OutstandingAchievement in Cinematography; Athanasios Papastergiou, recognizedfor Sound Design; and Tiffanie Hsu, who received the award for AlumniJury, Honorable Mention.

After the students received their awards, UCLA dean Teri Shwartz hon-ored Coppola with the Distinguished Vanguard Director Award. A shortcompilation of his films was shown including “Apocalypse Now,” “BramStroker’s Dracula,” “The Cotton Club,” “Finian’s Rainbow,” “TheGodfather,” “The Outsiders” and others. Coppola is one of only six peoplein the history of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences toreceive an Oscar as producer, director and screenwriter.

‘Original Catwoman’ to appear at ‘CatConLA’

photo courtesy of Harlan Boll

The Reef is located at 1933 S. Broadway, downtown. For information,visit www.catconla.com.

Tony Award winning actressJulie Newmar will appear at the“CatConLA 2016” convention onSaturday June 25 from 11 a.m. to 1p.m. with her brother JohnNewmeyer, author of “TheMediterranean Universe.” Theconvention, which centers on cats,will be held on June 25 and 26 atThe Reef in downtown LosAngeles.

Newmar portrayed Catwomanon the “Batman” television seriesin the 1960s. She received a TonyAward for her performance in theBroadway comedy “Marriage-Go-Round.” She also portrayed her-self in the 1995 movie “To WongFoo, Thanks For Everything! JulieNewmar.”

John Newmeyer sees cats not aspets but as masters proud, capableand fierce, similar to the characterportrayed by his sister, who isknown as “the originalCatwoman.”

“CatConLA” features productsand ideas in art, design and popculture for cat people. Part expoand part symposium, the conven-tion showcases cat-centric mer-chandise including furniture, art,toys and clothing.

photo courtesy of Jill Weinlein

Australians in Film opens‘Charlie’s’

On June 17, Australians in Film (AiF) opened “Charlie’s” in LosAngeles, a new workspace for AiF industry members to conduct business,collaborate and network. 

Named after Charlie Chaplin, the new home base for Australian film-makers is located at the historic Raleigh Studios, in the heart ofHollywood.   

“An essential part of our mission at AiF is to provide career opportuni-ties and nurture a vibrant community for Australians working in LosAngeles,” said Simonne Overend, chairman of AiF. “Charlie’s provides asupportive workspace for both up-and-coming and established Australiancontent creators to cultivate their ideas in an environment that is inspiringand encouraging. AiF has provided a sense of community and a home-away-from-home for over a decade through our screenings and varioussocial and educational programs. Charlie’s is another structured way wecontinue to provide this.”

Charlie’s was designed by the interior designer and photographer IngridWeir, who aimed to create a space that has a sense of ease and vibrancy. 

The workspace opened with a selection of visiting high-profileAustralian filmmakers along with producers, actors and agency heads.

Charlie’s is located at Raleigh Studios, 5300 Melrose Ave., Ste. B211.For information, visit www.australiansinfilm.org.

photo courtesy of AiF

Page 16: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

16 June 23, 2016 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

A photograph in the Aug. 26, 2015 issue of the Park Labrea Newsand Beverly Press, taken in Los Angeles City Council Chambers,showed supporters and opponents of a city ordinance to allow resi-dences to be used as short-term rentals. On Monday, Los Angeles CityAttorney Mike Feuer announced an effort to crack down on propertyowners who evict tenants so they can list their units as short-termrentals. For information, see page 1.

City targets short-term rental units

Across1. Kind of nerve6. Turkish title10. Pith helmet14. Skin layer15. Flourish16. Unfledged hawk17. Delivers upsetting news20. “The ___ of All Fears”

(Affleck movie)21. Peach or plum22. Muse of music23. In a poor manner25. Pipe type26. ___ income fund28. Kvetch29. Chinese brew32. Former Indian coins33. Story element34. Metallurgist’s materials35. Stand firm38. Charge39. Dethrone40. Instant41. Quick on the uptake42. Hill’s opposite43. Determined in advance44. Practice45. ___ fire46. Spanning49. Deviation50. Moorbad Gmos, for one53. Speak frankly56. Not give a ___57. Anatomical network58. Seed coverings59. Bind60. Leavings61. Crow’s home

Down1. 15 and 31, e.g.2. Indiana town where Cole Porter was born3. Glenn Miller, for one4. Sitter’s handful5. Place that might honor checks6. “___ Road” (1969 release)7. Thick porridge description8. Civilian population9. Walk about10. Little laugh11. ___ and terminer12. Arthropod appendage13. Castaway’s home18. Getting on, in Glasgow19. Short end24. “Wellaway!”26. Zitone, e.g.27. Ready to be drawn28. ___ quarters29. Queen Mary 2, e.g.30. For this reason31. Long suit33. Chicken farmer34. Baddies36. Alternately37. Panama42. “I dare you!”43. Swamp thing44. Dropped a line45. Convex flower clusters46. Far from ruddy

47. “Get outta here!”48. Swiped51. Lot of loot52. Vaulted polygon54. Giant Giant55. Before, of yore

Crossword Puzzle by Myles Mellor

The Dalai Lama arrived in the UnitedStates a couple of days ago.Being a traveler, Dalai is described by hisown media as one who “spent most of histime in different parts of the world and onlya small portion in Dharamsala.” However,though he is fond of this way, many coun-tries are “reluctant to open door for him.”

Spiritual Leader or Gold Salesperson?Since Dalai visited India for the first time in1960s, he has visited quite a number ofcountries over the past five decades. Evennow at more than 80 years old, Dalai neverceases peddling his political views. Com-paring with the name “mental cacique,” heseems to be more suited as “gold salesper-son.”There is definitely a reason for thename “gold salesperson.” It is undeniablethat Dalai and his team did quite well inmeeting the reality demand of Western pol-itics as well as the psychological needsfrom the western people. ThroughoutDalai’s career, we can easilyconclude some trends.

Strategy A: Targeting Rich Industrial-ized NationsRich democratic nations are Dalai’s fa-vorite traveling destinations. According tostatistics in early 2009 by some media,most of the nations Dalai visited are Euro-pean countries and the United States, in-cluding 30 in Europe, 9 in North America, 6in South America, 13 in Asia and 3 inAfrica. Dalai also visited Australia and NewZealand, the two most developed countriesin Oceania. However, Africa, the least de-veloped continent whichneeds “kindness” most, is not so favored bythis religious leader. Except visiting SouthAfrica four times, a country with a strongeconomy in Africa, Dalai only visited Nigeriaand Gabon once. The reason for this isquite simple. One of the most importantmissions for Dalai’s visit is to raise moneyand recruit provisions from the Westto keep running the system called “Tibet In-dependence.” That is the issue which Dalaicares most. Take Dalai’s recent visit to Aus-tralia and New Zealand as an example. Thelocal people complained that they could notattend Dalai’s lecture because the ticketprice was too high. High consumption is notwhat ordinary people of whom Dalai claimsto be his most concerned can afford.

Strategy B: Gain Attention at a SensitiveTimeDalai also likes to travel at a sensitivetime, usually when such a visit can be com-bined with some anti-China needs from theWest. Riots broke out in Tibet in 1987 andDalai immediately delivered a speech in theUnited States. After the Wenchuan earth-quake and Japan’s tsunami, and when theDiaoyu Island issue proceeded to a perfer-vid state, Dalai can be seen in action. Afterthe Wenchuan earthquake, in response toa British reporter’s question, Dalai, who ad-vertises himself as a compassionate lamasaid, “It is very natural for one to feel sym-pathetic, but the Tibetan issue is more im-portant.” I prefer to call Dalai a “tideplayer” as he is particularly fond of show-offin the teeth of the storm.Such behavior is often regarded as atrait of “star syndrome.”Dalai not only has an overall considerationover the destination and the timing of hisvisit, but also carefully designs the contentand activities for his visit.

Strategy C: Repetition is Power.Bearing in mind “repetition is power,” Dalairepeated a few topics in his lectures andspeeches at various places. Firstly, hewould speak of religious spirit such aspeace and tolerance and then shift to non-violence philosophy, human rights, culturalprotection, environment protection, etc. andwithout exception he would eventually talkabout how the Chinese government com-mitted “cultural genocide” and damaged theenvironment. He has a clear mind and al-ways speaks in a soft manner, often withgood jokes and casual postures. He likesto use all sorts of beautiful words suchas “sow the seeds of mercy,” “search forhappiness” and “universal value” to createa hallucinogenic halo of beauty, goodnessand truth, under which his true idea of “TibetIndependence” in the name of “the middleway” seems not so unreasonable.

Strategy D: Think and Speakin the Western WayAnother remarkable feature of Dalai’s prop-aganda is to think and speak in the Westernway and to fully communicate in the West-ern way of thinking as well as the Westernvalues and ideas. Compared with the East-ern way of being mild and euphemistic,the Western way of thinking is rather plainand simple. The dual value model leads to

the fact that as long as the Western peoplebelieve in the image which is built by Dalai,they will inevitably cast a negative impres-sion on China. The two processes occur atthe same time. The complexity of “TibetanIssue” aside, the mixed feeling of the West-ern people towards China’s rising also de-cides that in the subconsiousness of theWestern people, they are more willing tobelieve in Dalai.The East values collectivism while the Westadvocates individual heroism. Under the re-ligious aura, Dalai exhibits an image of atragic hero running away from his home-land for freedom and also an image of acharming old manwho made friends with many Westerncelebrities. Dalai seems very appealing onface value: he is vulnerable but with mercy,a wise man being optimistic. This kind ofimage marketing is meticulously manipu-lated by Dalai and his team. However, sucha plastinated image is thin and one-sided.Usually, people seem to forget that Dalaiwas once Tibet’s biggest slave owner andhe used to seek political status while beinga religious figure and the fact that his es-cape was actually a betrayal of his mother-land and his own integrity.

“Your smile is attractive but your actionis harmful.”Fortunately, not all the people are forgetful.Russian President Putin once said, DalaiLama should not be positioned as a worldreligious figure, but rather a political activi-tist.Mr. Adrian Geiges, a correspondent of Ger-man Star Magazine to China told us DalaiLama was not what people imagined “an in-nocent angle, but a successful diplomat in-stead.”American media magnate Rupert Mur-doch commented Dalai as “a politial lamatravelling around the world with his ItalianGucci shoes.” In the face of the siege andone-sided opinion from the Westernmedia, the Chinese people who shouldhave more to say could only voice theiropinions to the world in such a manner: dur-ing Dalai’s visit to China once, the local Chi-nese hired a small plane hovering over thehall where Dalai made his speech. A ban-ner was hung on the plane, with a sentencesaying “your smile is attractive but your ac-tion is harmful.”

BY ROY CHANG

An Analysis on Dalai’s Visit and Strategy

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

John Sayles’ film “Matewan” willbe shown on Tuesday, June 28 at7:30 p.m. at the Hammer Museum.The 1920 Battle of Matewan was apivotal moment in the history oflabor organization and union bust-ing. Additionally, Vicky Funari andSergio De La Torre’s documentary“Maquila-polis” will be shown onWednesday June 29 at 7:30 p.m. TheHammer is located at 10899Wilshire Blvd. For information, call(310)443-7000, or visit www.ham-mer.ucla.edu.

HammerMuseum hostsfilm screening

To place an ad call (323)933-5518

or email [email protected]

Page 17: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 17 June 23, 2016

How do you top the comedy andcharm of “Finding Nemo,” perhapsthe funniest Pixar film to date?After all, we’ve been disappointedbefore. The answer is simple: bringback the team.With Andrew Stanton (“Finding

Nemo,” “Wall-E”) back as directorand writer, what results is a delight-ful story that doesn’t merely rehash“Nemo,” but “just keeps swim-ming” toward new oceanic andemotional destinations.If you’re here for laughs,

“Finding Dory” has plenty, just notas many as “Nemo.” But in place ofchuckles, you’ll find a story thatpulls every one of your heartstringsto the very end of their lines.Remember Dory (EllenDeGeneres), Marlin’s (AlbertBrooks) charming short-term mem-ory-impaired sidekick in the searchfor Nemo (now voiced by HaydenRolence)? Sidekick no more.It turns out Dory lost her family

years ago, but something jars amemory of their location. So Nemoand Marlin join up as she embarkson another adventure across the

ocean. But this journey isn’t aboutfinding someone physically lost.They’re on a mission to find Dory’sfamily and perhaps just help herpiece together who she really is.

You’ll run into the occasionalcharacters from “Nemo,” but“Finding Dory” is its own adven-ture, telling a totally original story.Luckily, Stanton is a narrative mas-ter who knows better than to regur-gitate anything for its own sake.Instead of a treacherous journeyacross the ocean, we arrive at theprimary destination rather quickly,providing ample time to exploreone central locale.

There’s still plenty in commonwith the first film, but this is Dory’sstory, and she swims with a differ-ent school of fish. Meet Destiny(Kaitlin Olson) a short-sightedwhale shark, who tends to swiminto walls. Beluga whale Bailey (TyBurrell) fears his sonar capabilities,often complaining about his tragicexistence. It’s wonderfully melo-dramatic thanks to the amazingvoice talent of Burrell.The most fleshed out new char-

acter, however, is octopus Hank(Ed O’Neill), who doesn’t like theopen sea very much, acting ratherselfishly to avoid returning. Doryand Hank strike a deal to find herparents, and the two are off, partak-ing in many antics. Their bond soontransforms into something adorablealong the way. Like Dory, Hanknever quite found a home, but that’sthe point of this film, how a newfamily forms and how the old fam-ily stays together.I’m warning you now, you’ll cry.

Like in the first three minutes. Andthen a few more times later on.Don’t worry too much – they’retears of joy. The story begins withhow Dory got lost prior to “FindingNemo.” Cue baby Dory. Superadorbs.After the opening scene, she

begins to experience flashbacks,but she doesn’t know how to cope,largely relying on the help of oth-

ers. It’s rare for a film to take a cen-tral gag from a previous film andturn it into a site of trauma.“Finding Dory” includes severalhilarious moments and repeatinggags, but her short-term memoryloss is not among them.Switching the lead from Marlin

to Dory might seem like a risk.After all, the first film is based on afather trying to keep his familytogether. But in the process, Dorybecomes a pivotal part of that fam-ily, even though her disabilitymight seem like a burden to thosearound her. Still, “Finding Dory”focuses equally on our three leads –

Dory, Marlin and Nemo – animportant decision if Dory is tounderstand what family really is.“Finding Dory” is the kind of

emotional ride meant to make youcall those closest to you and findsome way to hug them through thephone. Don’t mistake my meaning,it’s loads of fun, but at its core, thecutesy moments are just one part ofa splendid film about the road torecovery and self-discovery.I’m sure for some “Finding

Dory” comes more than a decadetoo late. For me, Pixar needed towait this long to tell such an emo-tionally endearing yet playful story.

‘Finding Dory’ has all the feels you’ll ever need

On ScreenWITH

TIM POSADAphoto courtesy of Disney Pictures

Whale shark Destiny and Dory meet in ‘Finding Dory,” Pixar’s new ani-mated undersea adventure.

GWNC presents Drought-Tolerant Garden TourThe inaugural Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council (GWNC)

Drought-Tolerant Garden Tour is on Sunday, June 26 from 10 a.m. to2 p.m.The tour is presented by the GWNC Sustainability Committee.

Participants will meet at Harold A. Henry Park, 890 S. Lucerne Blvd.The tour will explore prime examples of drought-tolerant and sus-

tainable gardens, and participants will discuss the gardens with land-scape designers, landscape architects and homeowners.Representatives from the Theodore Payne Foundation will lead a pre-sentation on drought-tolerant plants. Participants will also learn aboutgardens created using Los Angeles Department of Water and Powerrebates, and see how sustainable landscaping is going beyond homegardening with a presentation on the landscaping at Harold A. HenryPark and the Ridgewood-Wilton medians. Pictured at right is a gardendesigned by Camille Cimino at the Waters residence in FremontPlace.For information, email [email protected] or visit

www.greaterwilshire.org.

photo courtesy of Julie Stromberg

On June 24, the GrammyMuseum, in partnership with BETInternational, will unveil theSounds of Africa exhibit. Thisshowcase will celebrate the diversi-ty of African music and will spot-light winners and nominees of boththe Grammy Awards and the “BETAwards.” Located on the museum’s third

floor, the display celebrates Africanmusical artists as presented daily onBET International channels aroundthe globe.“At BET International, we look

forward each year to recognizingand applauding the work of the bestmusical artists from the continent ofAfrica as a part of the annual BETAwards, and this year, we’re thrilledto collaborate with the GrammyMuseum to take inter-continentalmusic celebration to new heightswith the Sounds of Africa exhibit,”said Ava Hall, vice president, BETInternational Programming andBrand Advancement. “We arebeyond excited about this tribute tolegendary, traditional and contem-porary African music artists, andcould not have asked for a betterpartner.”The Fan Fest for the BET

Experience at L.A. LIVE presentedby Coca-Cola is free and has activi-ties for all ages at the Los AngelesConvention Center on June 25 andJune 26. The BET Experienceweekend will include several per-formances by popular and up-and-coming artists, as well as a celebritybasketball game. VIP Packages for the BET

Experience weekend are now onsale. For information, call(877)234-8425, or visitwww.BETExperience.com or by.L.A. Live is located at 800 W.

Olympic Blvd. General admissiontickets for the BET Experience atL.A. LIVE presented by Coca-Cola

The GrammyMuseum and BETpresent ‘Soundsof Africa’ exhibit

are now on sale. For tickets, visitwww.axs.com/betexperience.BET Experience attendees can

also purchase discounted tickets tothe Grammy Museum by showingtheir BET Experience wristband at

the museum box office from June23-26. The Grammy Museum islocated at 800 W. Olympic BlvdA245. For information on themuseum, call (213)765-6800, orvisit www.Grammymuseum.org.

Cue baby Dory.Super adorbs.

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18 June 23, 2016 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

On June 25 and 26, the NaturalHistory Museum of Los AngelesCounty will celebrate Los Angeleswildlife at the new L.A. UrbanNature Fest. In its second year, thefestival aims to be a place whereL.A.’s thriving community ofnature lovers can come together.

Museum scientists are joiningwith dozens of Southern Californianature organizations, including theNational Park Service and the LosAngeles Audubon society, for aweekend of family-friendly activi-ties.

Admission to L.A. Urban NatureFest is included with regularMuseum admission, and is $12 foradults, $9 for seniors and studentswith valid ID, and $5 for children(3-12). Museum members andchildren under 2 are admitted free.

For tickets and more informa-

tion, visit nhm.org/naturefest orcall 213-763-DINO.

The event will be held at the

Nature Gardens at Natural HistoryMuseum of Los Angeles County,900 Exposition Blvd.

Amanda Castro Band bringsupbeat jazz to Beverly Hills

The Beverly Hills free Concerts on Canon summer series brings jazzytunes to Beverly Canon Gardens with the Amanda Castro Band tonight,June 23.

Castro is an up-and-coming singer fromSouthern California who specializes in an eclec-tic mix of upbeat jazz. She reimagines new andold tunes in her jazzy, show-stopping style andhas performed at many venues in SouthernCalifornia and Las Vegas including TheBeverly Hills Montage and The BeverlyHills Hotel. Castro also has performedwith ten-time Grammy award winnerArturo Sandoval.

The free outdoor entertainmentseries takes place every Thursdaythrough Sept. 1, with two 45-minutemusical sets at 6 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.Tables and chairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and there is seat-ing available on the large, grassy area forblankets.

Beverly Canon Gardens is locatedat 241 N. Canon Dr.

For information, visit www.bever-lyhills.org/exploring/eventsandactivities.

Photo courtesy of the city of Beverly Hills

L.A. Urban Nature Fest celebrates local wildlife

photo courtesy of NHM

“Woofstock 90210” returns toBeverly Hills on Sunday, June 26from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at RoxburyPark’s Wiggly Field.

The Pet Care Foundation and TheAmanda Foundation will offermore than 120 rescued pets foradoption. Residents can learn moreabout the first Beverly HillsCommunity Dog Park, scheduled toopen later this summer at FoothillRoad and Alden Drive. Donationsto improve the dog park will beaccepted at the Dog Park booth.

Lolo and Coco, same gender res-cue dogs, will be married at the DogWedding Movie booth. Their“Alice in Wonderland”-themed cer-emony will be followed by addi-tional dog weddings. Guests canschedule their dogs to be married atthe Dog Wedding Movie booth.Wedding gowns and tuxes are pro-vided and designed by LolaTeigland.

Maxx, the celebrity dog@maxximumdelight will be avail-able for photos. He will also awardtwo Dyson vacuums to raffle con-testants. For additional photoopportunities, guests can capturetheir moments at the TapSnap photo

booth and post on social mediausing the hashtag#Woofstock90210.

The event also includes costumecontests in three categories: Su“Paw” Heroes, Most Creative andBaseball Dog of Fame. Dogs willalso show off their costumes duringa Pet Parade with awards.

Additionally, dogs will catchFrisbees and discs at the Disc DogsAgility and Demonstration Show.Gentleman Norman, a classyPomeranian, will be at the Pussy &Pooch booth, where he will “pawto-graph” his book, “How to be aMan,” which offers advice for menon grooming and wardrobe, rela-tionships and manners. More than45 vendors and specialty boothswill also offer pet-related goods andservices, and hungry guests canorder from food trucks.

Admission is free, and free park-ing is available at Beverly HillsHigh School with pet-friendly shut-tles to Roxbury Park from 10:45a.m. to 4 p.m. Roxbury Park islocated at 471 Roxbury Drive. Forinformation, call (310)285-6830, orvisit www.beverlyhills.org/woofs-tock90210.

photo courtesy of the city of Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills goes to the dogs at #Woofstock 90210

To place an ad call (323)933-5518 or email [email protected]

The Wallis Annenberg Center forthe Performing Arts and theBroadway Dreams Foundation(BDF) have announced the musicaltheater faculty lineup for the 2016GENERAT10N Summer Intensive,being held June 19 – 26 at TheWallis in Beverly Hills. Facultymembers include star of stage andscreen Taye Diggs, Olivier Award-nominated director Stafford Arima,Broadway Dreams FoundationEducation Director CraigD’Amico, actress Jenny ParsinenBergold, Tesley + Company castingdirector Rachel Hoffman,Broadway musician and vocalcoach Craig Johnson, actress AlexisCarra, actor Alex Newell, actressRyann Redmond and cast members

of the touring productionof  Beautiful  – The Carole KingMusical.

The annual weeklong summerintensive invites students to experi-ence a rigorous week of Broadway-caliber training and perform in theshow Dreamer’s Ball on the stageof the Bram Goldsmith Theater onSaturday, June 25. Tickets are nowon sale at TheWallis.org.

“Support for young artists isessential to our education missionat GRoW @ The Wallis,” saidMark Slavkin, Director ofEducation at The Wallis. “We arehonored to join with BroadwayDreams to host this exceptionalprogram.”

“This year, as the Broadway

Dreams Foundation celebrates its10th year of programming, we willshatter all expectations and makedreams come true in a record num-ber of cities and countries,” saidBDF Executive Director AnnetteTanner.

Single tickets for the GENER-AT10N Dreamer’s Ball public per-formance are now available for $25and $45. To purchase tickets, visitTheWallis.org, call 310-746-4000,or stop by in person at the WallisAnnenberg Center for thePerforming Arts Ticket Serviceslocated at 9390 N. Santa MonicaBlvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90210.Ticket are prices subject to change.

For more information, visitmybroadwaydreams.com.

Faculty announced for GENERAT10N Summer Intensive at The Wallis

Harvard professor selected as founding chair of Cedars-Sinai Department of Orthopaedics

Cedars-Sinai has announced thatorthopedic trauma surgeon andHarvard University professor Dr.Mark Vrahas has been selected asthe founding chair of the medicalcenter’s new Department ofOrthopaedics.

“This important leadershipappointment reflects Dr. Vrahas’reputation for outstanding patientcare, clinical excellence and hisstrong record of building and lead-ing highly effective orthopedictrauma programs,” said Dr. ShlomoMelmed, executive vice presidentof Academic Affairs, dean of themedical faculty and the Helene A.and Phillip E. Hixon Chair inInvestigative Medicine.

At Harvard Medical School,Vrahas served as the vice chair forPopulation Health & OROperations at MassachusettsGeneral Hospital’s Department ofOrthopedic Surgery and as chief ofPartners Orthopaedic TraumaProgram at Massachusetts Generaland Brigham and Women’sHospital. He also founded theHarvard Orthopaedic TraumaInitiative to foster collaborationamong orthopedic trauma servicesat all Harvard-affiliated teachinghospitals.

“Although it is difficult to moveaway from the Harvard MedicalSchool community after nearly twodecades, I am looking forward tocollaborating with my new col-leagues as we tackle the challengeof building upon Cedars-Sinai’sreputation for excellence in patientcare and research,” Vrahas stated.

Orthopedics at Cedars-Sinai hasexperienced record clinical andacademic growth over the past sev-

eral years, prompting the establish-ment of a new Department ofOrthopaedics.

3300 Wilshire Blvd. • (213) 389-3191

www.immanuelpres.org

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Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 19 June 23, 2016

The Greater Los Angeles ZooAssociation’s (GLAZA) is seekingapplicants for its docent trainingprogram, which begins with aninformation meeting on Saturday,July 16 from 10 a.m. to noon in thezoo’s Witherbee Auditorium.

Docents serve as volunteerteachers, sharing their knowledgeof the zoo and its flora and faunathrough touring, educational activ-ities, educational programs, classesand more. The docent program,open to those 18 and older, pro-vides a comprehensive trainingcourse in which individual oppor-tunities are explored and devel-oped. The more than 700 GLAZAvolunteers contributed more than76,000 hours of time last year tothe zoo. No previous experience isnecessary.

“We’re looking for people whoenjoy learning and interacting withyoungsters, families and other zoovisitors,” said Kirin Daugharty,manager of volunteer programs.“Volunteers and docents are thesoul of the zoo, so passion, dedica-tion and enthusiasm are ideal char-acteristics for those applying to theprogram.”

Docents complete a 23-weektraining program offered at the zoo

each fall in conjunction with UCLAExtension. Classes, which begin inOctober, meet once a week onTuesdays or Saturdays from 8:30a.m. to 3 p.m. The classes focus ontaxonomy of plants and animals atthe zoo as well as ecology, conser-vation and the role of zoos inwildlife preservation. Docents mustbe high school graduates or equiva-

lent and be able to commit 100hours per year for a minimum oftwo years. Applications are accept-ed through Aug. 19 by visitingwww.lazoo.org.

The Los Angeles Zoo is locatedat 5333 Zoo Drive in Griffith Park.For information, call (323)644-4703 or [email protected].

Volunteers sought for zoo docent program

photo by Jamie PhamZoo docents expose children and other guests to behind-the-sceneswonders at the Los Angeles Zoo.

The Beverly Hills FarmersMarket has announced the winnersof the “Pie Bake & Piesta” held onJune 12. Beverly Hills residentMelani Shaum won first place forher “Lagier Ranch Sour CherryPie,” Beverly Hills resident GingerGarth receive second place for her“Summer Apple Pie,” and thirdplace was awarded to Stella Kalish,who baked a pie every week for fiveweeks to prepare for the competi-

tion.The annual “Pie Bake & Piesta”

is held every June at the BeverlyHills Farmers’ Market, attractingpie-bakers from throughout thecommunity. This year, 16 contes-tants entered the competition.Bouquet Veprin received the “MostPieutiful Award” for her Frenchapple tart.

Shaum, who has lived in BeverlyHills for nearly 20 years, had herhusband drive 675 miles round-tripto buy sour cherries from LagierRanch in Escalon, California for heraward-winning pie.

“I had to work, so my wonderfulhusband took a road-trip to the farmand brought the cherries to ourkitchen so I could make this specialpie,” she said.

Sour cherries are special toShaum. While growing up in Ohio,her family frequently drove toMichigan to pick sour cherries.When she moved to California, shefound a farm in Leona Valley thatcultivated sour cherries and she car-

ried on the cherry-picking traditionwith her children. She later discov-ered Lagier Ranch.

Shaum first entered the contest 10years ago and has won numerousawards. She said the Beverly HillsFarmers’ Market offers high qualityfruits and vegetables so she doesn’thave to leave town or drive hun-dreds of miles, as her husband didfor her cherries.

Entries were made from locallygrown Californian fruit and cri-tiqued by judges including BeverlyHills Vice Mayor Nancy Krasne;Recreation and Parks Commissionchair Frances Bilak; Annie Miler,owner of Clementine’s Bakery andCafé; Beverly Hills Police ChiefSandra Spagnoli; and Emma Nica,last year’s first place contest winner.The winners received gift certifi-cates courtesy of Clementine Café.

The Beverly Hills Farmers’Market is held Sundays from 9 a.m.to 1 p.m. in the 9300 block of CivicCenter Drive, between Third Streetand Santa Monica Boulevard.

For information, visit www.bev-erlyhills.org/FarmersMarket.

photo courtesy of the city of Beverly Hills

Sour cherry takes top honors atBeverly Hills ‘Pie Bake & Piesta’

School board approves fostering academicresearch resolution

Continuing a commitment toprovide high-quality education forall students, the Los Angeles boardof education approved a resolutionsupporting a symposium on publiceducation. The goal is to bringtogether scholars and researchersto provide recommendations.

“I  am pleased to welcome thisimportant partnership, which willprovide us the essential and thor-ough research and analysis neededfor the district to face  the  chal-

lenges before us as we strive tofulfill the promise of quality edu-cation that we have made to stu-dents, families and our communi-ties,” said board president SteveZimmer.

The ‘‘2016 Symposium on aQuality System of PublicEducation for All Students,”which has yet to be scheduled, willfocus on addressing the needs ofall students and best practices instaffing, funding, community

engagement and space from tradi-tional and charter schools.

“Last January, this board unani-mously approved my resolutiontitled, ‘Excellent Public Educationfor Every Student.’ This resolutionresolved to develop a frameworkfor excellent public schools andimproved outcomes for every stu-dent by relying on tested strategiesand forward thinking new mod-els,” added board member ScottSchmerelson.

“I had to work, so my wonderfulhusband took aroad-trip to

[Lagier Ranch inEscalon, CA] and

brought the cherries to ourkitchen so

I could make thisspecial pie.”

Melani Shaum First Place Winner

Read us online at beverlypress.com

See our 70thAnniversary Issue

and the weekly newspaper!

Page 20: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

20 June 23, 2016 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Music of Carole King comesto life at Hollywood Pantages

photo by Joan Marcus“Beautiful-The Carole King Musical” runs through Sunday, July

17 at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre.Abby Mueller stars as the legendary and groundbreaking singer

and songwriter Carole King. Mueller’s sister, Jessie Mueller, won theTony Award for Best Actress in a Musical in 2014 for her portrayalof King in the show’s Broadway production. The cast also includesLiam Tobin, Becky Gulsvig, Ben Fankhauser, Curt Bouril andSuzanne Grodner.Long before she was chart-topping music legend Carole King, she

was Carol Klein, a Brooklyn girl with passion and chutzpah. Shefought her way into the record business as a teenager and, by the timeshe reached her twenties, had the husband of her dreams and a flour-ishing career writing hits for the biggest acts in rock ‘n’ roll.But it wasn’t until her personal life began to fall apart that she man-

aged to find her true voice. “Beautiful” tells the inspiring true storyof King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit song-writing team with her husband Gerry Goffin to her relationship withfellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, tobecoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music his-tory.Showtimes are 8 p.m., Tuesday through Friday; 2 and 8 p.m.,

Saturday; and 1 and 6:30 p.m., Sunday. Matinees are at 2 p.m. onJune 2 and July 14. Tickets start at $29. The Hollywood PantagesTheatre is located at 6233 Hollywood Blvd. For information and tick-ets, visit www.HollywoodPantages.com/Beautiful.

The Los Angeles BusinessCouncil (LABC) recently hostedthe 46th annual Los AngelesArchitectural Awards, which hon-ored 36 architectural and designindustry professionals who are set-ting new standards of design excel-lence, innovation and sustainability.The recipients combined beauti-

ful architecture with environmentaland healthy best practices. Morethan 500 design and building pro-fessionals attended the event at theBeverly Hilton.The Kronish House in Beverly

Hills, designed by Richard Neutrain 1955, was honored with thePreservation Award. KennedyWilson, a property managementfirm based in Beverly Hills,received the Commercial Officeaward.“The winners of this year’s

Architectural Awards demonstratehow exceptional architecturaldesigns can inspire our communityand invigorate our city while alsoaddressing critical policy needs,”said Mary Leslie, president of theLABC. “This year designers rose tothe challenge to design more eco-conscious and efficient features andgenerally improve the way peoplelive through architecture. We areproud to honor this diverse group ofexcellent projects and celebrate thefuture of sustainable developmentand economic growth in LosAngeles.”This year’s Chairman’s Award,

presented by LABC Chair NadineWatt, was given to three L.A.-areabuildings: CBRE, the Bloc and theHaworth Showroom. The buildingsare examples of the early-adoptionof the WELL Building Standard –the world’s first standard focused onhuman health and wellness.“The Architectural Awards are

about much more than beautifuldesign,” said Los Angeles CityController Ron Galperin, who

helped recognize the design jury.“[The] awards reflect how designinnovation can have a meaningfulimpact on the lives of Angelenosand help lead our city to a more sus-tainable, productive future.”For the second consecutive year,

the LABC partnered with the LosAngeles Department of Water andPower (LADWP) to recognize out-standing drought-tolerant landscapeprojects. The LADWP CommunityImpact Award went to five winners– four residential and one commer-cial project – that used LADWP’sCalifornia Friendly LandscapeIncentive Program to createdrought-resilient, high-qualitydesign. The program has nowaccounted for more than 46 squarefeet of turf removal, a savings ofover 1.7 billion gallons of water peryear.“It’s no coincidence the indus-

try’s best practices in water-con-serving architecture are flourishingin Los Angeles,” said Los AngelesCity Councilman Paul Koretz, 5thDistrict, who presented theCommunity Impact Award. “As wemove into a ‘new normal’ futurewith an uncertain water supply, thehonorees in this category are find-ing innovative water-saving solu-tions to help achieve and surpass thecity’s aggressive conservationgoals.”Other award recipients include

The Broad and a WoodburyUniversity team that developed aprogram to repurpose the LosAngeles City Mall in the CivicCenter. Six participating schoolscompeted to redesign the site withadditional City office space andcommunity amenities. For infor-mation, visit www.labusinesscoun-cil.org.

Buildings recognized for architectural excellence

photo courtesy of Hanna McGuire/Sugerman Communications GroupThe Kronish House in Beverly Hills was one of the properties recognizedby the Los Angeles Business Council for its architectural excellence.

U.S. Holocaust Museumprogram focuses on refugees

photo courtesy of United States Holocaust Memorial MuseumThe United States Holocaust Memorial Museum recently present-

ed the “Two Americans Who Defied the Nazis” program to nearly100 guests on June 9 at William Morris Endeavor EntertainmentScreening Room in Beverly Hills. Pictured are Gretchen Skidmore(left), the museum’s director of education initiatives; Rabbi SusanNanus, of Wilshire Boulevard Temple; and Dana M. Perlman, mem-ber on the United States Holocaust Memorial Council.In early 1939, Waitstill and Martha Sharp, a young Unitarian min-

ister and a social worker, moved to Prague and aided hundreds ofrefugees fleeing Nazi persecution. Guests learned about the Sharps’efforts and their collection of personal papers that have been donatedto the museum. Through its national campaign “Never Again: WhatYou Do Matters,” led by honorary chair Elie Wiesel, the museumkeeps Holocaust memory alive as a relevant, transformative force inthe 21st century.

Holocaust survivors, supporters honored at gala

photo by Kyle EspeletaThe American Society for Yad Vashem hosted its third annual ben-

efit gala, “A Salute to Hollywood,” on June 6 at the Beverly WilshireHotel. Pictured are Consul General of Israel in Los Angeles DavidSiegel (left), actor Edward James Olmos, Holocaust survivor MaxStodel, and master of ceremonies Mike Burstyn.The American Society for Yad Vashem is dedicated to advancing

Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Martyrs’ and Heroes’ RemembranceAuthority on the Mount of Remembrance in Jerusalem. The organi-zation also supports The Jewish Life Foundation, which fundsJewish-themed cultural and educational programs on Jewish LifeTelevision. The evening, which raised over $600,000, honoredHolocaust survivors including Hollywood producers Meyer Gottlieband Branko Lustig with the Legacy Awards; Entertainment Grouppresident and COO Janice Min and EVP/Group publisher LynneSegall with a Vanguard Award; and real estate developer and philan-thropist David Wiener with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

‘Curiosity Show’highlightsdiversity of L.A.ecosystemThe Natural History Museum of

Los Angeles County (NHM) haslaunched the second installment ofnew video series “The CuriosityShow.”The series’ often humorous per-

spectives from NHM scientistsabout their ongoing research. Someof the episodes will investigatebroader environmental topics and-species, and take a closer look attheir relevance to the planet’s biodi-versity. It also features specificresearch being conducted at theNHM and how visitors can getinvolved with and learn about themuseum’s projects.The first episode explored the lat-

est findings on snails and slugs inLos Angeles. The second episodeincludes a conversation withNHM’s Dr. Brian Brown about theweird reproductive strategies offlies that he studies, and the tremen-dous undiscovered diversity amonginsects in L.A.Curator Chris Thacker created,

writes and directs the show. Shejoined NHM in 1998. NHM islocated at 900 Exposition Blvd.“The Curiosity Show” can beviewed by visitingwww.nhm.org/nature.

Page 21: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

Peter White, 38, who authoritiessaid was a transient.

According to the report, the offi-cers stopped at the southwest cornerof Wilshire Boulevard andSycamore Avenue – ahead ofWhite. The probationary officerexited the marked patrol car and,because White had placed his handsin a large bag slung across his chest,the officer drew a service pistol andordered White to lay on the ground.

The suspect did not comply andstarted riding his skateboard southon Sycamore Avenue, and the offi-cers followed him in their patrolcar. The officers also called forback-up as they followed Whitetoward Sycamore Avenue andEighth Street.

The report stated that, along theway, the officers noticed White’sskateboard periodically struckbumps in the sidewalk, causing himto fall off. Thinking that the skate-board could be used as a weapon,Shuff told the other officer to getout of the car and attempt to takethe skateboard away when Whitefell off near 855 S. Sycamore Ave.

As the officer tried to reach theskateboard, White also ran towardit. The report indicated that Shuffdrew his service pistol and orderedWhite to stop. When White did notcomply, the officer tackled White,

and a struggle ensued. Both officersthen unsuccessfully attempted torestrain White.

As White resisted, one of the offi-cers used a Taser in an attempt tosubdue him. Because the names inthe report are redacted, it is notclear exactly which officer drewand used the Taser, but it was effec-tive enough that the officersthought they could place the sus-pect in handcuffs. The officer whoused the Taser was unable to placeit back in a holster, so the Taser wasplaced on a step where it wasbelieved to be out of White’s reach.The suspect grabbed the Taser,however, and began using it toshock the probationary officer.

The LAPD investigation deter-mined that the officer was shockedat least twice by the Taser.According to the report, Shuff saidhe heard his partner “screaming”and saw the officer “shaking pro-fusely.” Shuff reportedly thoughtthe Taser was causing “serious bod-ily injury” to the officer and wasconcerned the suspect would try tograb the officer’s gun. After draw-ing his service pistol and orderingWhite to “drop it,” Shuff fired once,striking White and rendering himincapacitated. Other LAPD officersand paramedics arrived. White wastreated at the scene and taken to

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center,where he was later pronounceddead at 5:50 p.m.

Los Angeles County Coroner’sOffice spokesman Ed Winter saidWhite’s autopsy determined he diedfrom injuries caused by the singlegunshot wound. Winter added thattoxicology reports determinedWhite had methamphetamine in hissystem and was likely under theinfluence of the drug when the inci-dent occurred. White also hadtraces of amphetamines and mari-juana in his system.

LAPD supervisors who arrived atthe scene of the officer-involvedshooting immediately took Shuffand the other officer out of the fieldand an investigation began. Policesaid at the time that the probation-ary officer suffered a burn to the legfrom the Taser and Shuff was alsoinjured during the struggle, but theextent of his injuries were not spec-ified.

The officer-involved shootingwas reviewed by the LAPD’s ForceInvestigation Division and a Use ofForce Review Board was convenedin April. The results of the investi-gation and the board’s recommen-dation were forwarded to Beck. Thepolice chief issued rulings on fiveaspects of the officers’ conduct thatwere considered: tactics,drawing/exhibiting [of serviceweapons], non-lethal use of force,less-lethal use of force and lethaluse of force.

Beck found that the officer’s tac-

tics “substantially and unjustifiablydeviated from approved departmenttactical training,” which warranteda ruling of administrative disap-proval, according to the report.Beck found that the officers werewithin department policy in draw-ing their service weapons and usingnon-lethal and less-lethal use offorce. However, the lethal use offorce was deemed to be out of poli-cy and warranted administrativedisapproval.

In response to the ruling on tac-tics, the officers were sent forretraining, which has alreadyoccurred. With the shooting, theUse of Force Board was not unani-mous in its decision. Three mem-bers ruled the lethal use of forcewas justified, while two ruled that iswas out of policy, according to thereport. Beck sided with the minori-ty opinion, and ruled that officerswith similar training and experiencefaced with a similar circumstancewould not have believed White’sactions “presented an imminentthreat of death or serious bodilyinjury.”

Beck’s decision was unanimous-ly supported by the Los AngelesPolice Commission. The chiefdetermined that corrective action isnecessary for Shuff, but exactlywhat that action will be has yet tobe determined. The incident will bereviewed by the LAPD’s InternalAffairs Group and forwarded toother command staff before a finaldecision is made, said Lt. Larry

Barr, with the LAPD’s Use of ForceReview Division. Possible out-comes range from retraining or rep-rimand to termination. Barr said thethe issue is now a personnel matterand there is no timeline for makinga final decision.

Barr said it remains to be deter-mined what will happen to Shuff asa result of the ruling. The officertransferred out of the WilshireDivision shortly after the incidentas part of an unrelated personnelchange. Officer Rosario Herrera,with the LAPD’s Media RelationsSection said Shuff is a nine-yearLAPD veteran and remains with thedepartment. He is currentlyassigned to “field duties,” but thespecific geographic area where heworks was not released. No furtherinformation was released about theprobationary officer, who was withthe department for a year and fourmonths when the incident occurred.

Park Labrea News/Beverly Press 21 June 23, 2016

Officer’s fate unclearFrom LAPD page 1

Answers From Page 16

Los Angeles City AttorneyMike Feuer and ManhattanDistrict Attorney Cyrus R.Vance, Jr, on behalf of themajority of members ofProsecutors Against GunViolence (PAGV), haveannounced their support forlegislation that would give theU.S. Attorney General author-ity to prohibit known or sus-pected terrorists from buyingor possessing firearms.

Feuer and Vance wrote aletter to the authors of the leg-islation.

“With the devastation inOrlando fresh in our minds, itis important to note that if theshooter had been categorizedas a known terrorist by theFBI, under existing law hestill would have been able topurchase his weapons andcarry out the largest massshooting in our nation’s histo-ry,” the letter read. “That istotally unacceptable. This leg-islation would close that loop-hole.”

The Denying Firearms toDangerous Terrorists Act,sponsored by Sen. DianneFeinstein (D-Calif.) and Rep.Peter King (R-N.Y.), wouldgive the U.S. AttorneyGeneral authority to deny thetransfer of a firearm or explo-sive to a person who is aknown or suspected terrorist.Under current law, a transfercan be denied only of therecipient is statutorily prohib-ited from possessing afirearm, which includes usersof illegal drugs, domesticabusers and fugitives fromjustice.

A bill authored by Dr. RichardPan and principle co-authorSenator Bill Monning that wouldallow California to partner withthe federal level to reduce gunviolence was passed recently bythe State Senate in a vote of 27-10. 

SB 877 is sponsored by theUnion of American Physiciansand Dentists and would requireCalifornia to establish and main-tain a system to track data on vio-lent deaths in the state, includinggun deaths. 

“Researchers cannot fully con-front the crisis and save livesbecause we lack research andtracking,” said Pan, a pediatrician

and senator representing theSacramento region. “As a doctor,I’ve seen the horrors of gun vio-lence first hand, and central topreventing such violence is data-centered research.”

Prior to 2008, California partic-ipated in the National ViolentDeath Reporting System(NVDRS), a federal program tocollect data on violent deaths.Unfortunately, California wasunable to obtain federal fundingto continue because the state didnot obtain law enforcementrecords required by NVDRS. SB877 would require the CaliforniaDepartment of Public Health tocollect such data.

In addition to providing the datato the NVDRS, the data could beused to assist state policy makersand communities as they deter-mine appropriate prevention andeducation efforts.

“Gun violence constitutes apublic health epidemic, and SB877 is vital to enable California togather data and to inform a publichealth response,” Monning said.“State and national policymakershave access to very little researchthat would help us make informeddecisions about how to addressthis issue. Because Congress hasnot acted, the State of Californiamust take action.”

Researchers analyze the differ-

ence between how guns and vehi-cle fatalities are tracked. In 1975,the National Highway TrafficSafety Administration started anational database called theFatality Analysis ReportingSystem. State, local and federalentities work together to updatethe database with detailed dataabout every car death in thenation. By contrast, a unified andcomplete database of gun deathsis non-existent. Researchers andpolicy makers have used theinformation to create safety mech-anisms that have drasticallyreduced vehicle fatalities throughthe years. Meanwhile, gun deathspersist, and in 21 states and theDistrict of Columbia, gun deathsnow outnumber vehicle deaths.

The Harvey Morse cafeteria atCedars-Sinai Medical Centerrecently looked like a giant birth-day party when 400 guests attendedthe annual Neonatal Intensive CareUnit (NICU) reunion. The eventincluded clowns, face painters, ajuggler on stilts and balloon ani-mals. Most of the children in atten-dance were cared for after birth inthe Cedars-Sinai NICU, part of theMaxine Dunitz Children’s HealthCenter. Many stayed there for sev-eral months.

Dr. Charles F. Simmons Jr., MD,chair of the Cedars-SinaiDepartment of Pediatrics and direc-tor of the Division of Neonatology,said the event is a staff favorite.Pictured are Maria Sufle, her hus-band Sergio and baby Amber.

“The doctors and nurses wait forthis all year, the opportunity to seethe patients they cared for, and theirfamilies, and see how far they’vecome since leaving the NICU,”Simmons said.

Demetrio Cuzzocrea and Beth

Morgan attended with their twinboys Jack and Thomas, now 9 yearsold.

“These were our first kids, andwe were nervous about being par-ents,” Demetrio said. “The nursesand doctors were always giving usinformation to be comfortable withthe situation. They helped calm us,and show us what needed to bedone.”

For parents, it’s also a time toreunite with and catch up since theirtime together in the NICU. Many

bring pictures of their children asinfants and compare notes on devel-opmental milestone and triumphs.

One of the older NICU graduatesat the reunion was 20-year-oldEdward Roberts. Weighing onlyone pound, seven ounces when hewa born, he was one of Cedars-Sinai’s smallest babies. Now, he isnearly finished with college and iscontemplating graduate school. ForRoberts and his parents, comingback to the NICU reunion “is likecoming back to family,” he said.

Feuer, Vancesupporttougher gunmeasures

Legislation seeks tracking for gun deaths

Cedars-Sinai hosts reunion for families in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

adding more security and that bagsearches may become more fre-quent.

“That may be the state of thingsto come for all large gatherings ofpeople,” he said. “It’s the sameconditions that Israel and places inEurope have experienced fordecades. It’s a reflection of thetimes we’re in.”

He said West Hollywood resi-dents might not be under a specificthreat from terrorist groups likeISIS, but that precautions havemore to do with homegrowndomestic terrorism and access toassault weapons.

“But people will rest a little eas-ier and won’t mind the momentarysearch,” he said. “We’ll all be

safer.”Lt. Sergio Aloma, with the West

Hollywood Sheriff’s Station saidofficers understand there may beconcerns in the LGBT communityand that there is an obvious height-ened sense of awareness.

“That being said though, wehave no current information orthreats on any of our businesses – LGBT or otherwise,” he said.

He said in light of the Orlandoshooting, officers will be morevigilant and spend extra timearound businesses and events withlarge LGBT gatherings, but didn’t

want to specify on further detailsof their strategies moving forward.

On Tuesday, Duran joined afundraiser for the victims inOrlando hosted by WestHollywood clubs and bars. He saideverybody is still “quite shaken bythe 49 young people” who died inOrlando, but that the clubs werepacked with people who were notafraid to be out in large crowds.

“It’s brought the gay communitycloser to one another,” he said.“We all share this threat in com-mon.”

Measures reflect cultureFrom security page 1

Page 22: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

proposes to combine them into a26-story, 110-unit building withadditional height, and to create a1.7-acre “green space” or “openspace” along Wilshire instead.

“We are saying to the residents,‘Do you like the original plan, or doyou like a garden and a taller build-ing on the Santa Monica side?’”explained Marie Garvey, a spokes-woman for the project’s developers,Oasis West Realty, LLC.“Whichever you choose, we willbuild. But we think we have a betterplan creating a great garden thatbenefits everybody.”

At 375 feet, the building will beBeverly Hills’ first skyscraper.

“Whether you think it’s great orawful, from a process point ofview, it is groundbreaking,” saidCouncilman Julian Gold.

Many community memberssuggested that members of thecouncil might vote to call for aspecial election in September inthe hope that a low voter turnoutwould lead to a no vote becausecouncil members may have a“vendetta” against the project.They warned against “voter sup-pression” and stressed the impor-tance of maintaining an informedelectorate in November. 

“[The November ballot] willensure you get a true picture of

what the residents want in thecity,” said Lauren Escobar, wholives near the proposed develop-ment.

The city council complied andsaid they never would have calleda special election.

“To me, it’s a no-brainer to haveit on Nov. 8,” said CouncilwomanKathy Reims.

Councilwoman Lili Bosse saidshe was shocked that so manypeople felt the need to show upand discuss the potential specialelection.

“No chance, no way, never everwould I ever support that,” she said.

Mirisch echoed Bosse’s confu-sion with implications about votersuppression, stressing that thedeveloper requested that a specialelection be considered.

“Why on earth would a low voterturnout result in a no vote?” heasked. “Not one individualexplained why.”

Both community and councilmembers requested forums andspecial meetings to help more peo-ple understand what they will bevoting for.

The initiative will not require thecity’s standard environmentalreviews, though Garvey and thedevelopers maintain that the pro-posal will not create additional

traffic or additional building squarefootage compared to the approvedplan. Garvey said the project willhave the same usage as the firstplan – which was approved by thecity. But the city council alsodirected staff to report back in 30days with a long list of environ-mental and fiscal effects the projectwill have on the city from its roadsto its skyline. The council madesure that staff will cumulativelyconsider the 170-room WaldorfAstoria Hotel, which was part ofthe Alagem’s initial plan and is cur-rently under construction at thecorner of Wilshire and SantaMonica Boulevards.

“There are real serious things tolook at and we need the time tolook,” said Vice Mayor NancyKrasne. “I want the initiative on theballot, I think it should be inNovember, but I want a seriousstudy done.”

The city council acknowledgedthat as the first development initia-tive in the city, the project couldmark a sea change in urban devel-opment.

“This is a first for Beverly Hills,but it probably won’t be the last,”Gold said.

“At the end of the day, if this iswhat the public wants, this is whatthe public should have,” he added.

ants who are displaced and left tofend for themselves in a higherrental market.”

When the tenants on GeneseeAvenue were evicted, their rentsranged from $1,600 to $2,600 permonth, or approximately $53 to$87 per night. The typical rate foreach unit on Airbnb is approxi-mately $500 per night.

“There’s a great profit to bemade if you could on your whimchange your apartment unit if youown that building into a nightlyhotel rental,” Feuer said. “Butthere are negative consequences.”

The tenants in December alsofiled a lawsuit against the landlordand against Airbnb for providingthe method.

Attorney Randy Renick, whorepresents all four tenants whowere evicted, said the neighbor-hood around the Genesee Avenueis “pretty quiet,” made up largelyof senior couples and families,and that many of the short-termguests became a nuisance to thesurrounding community.

“When you change it over tofolks there for one night, it’s got aterrible impact on the neighbor-hood,” he said.

One of the former tenants,Carrie Kirshman said she is surethere are many others in LosAngeles in a similar situation thatmight be intimidated by the factthat they can’t afford a lawyer andnot explore options.

“Through this, people will seethe name of the law firm and say,‘I didn’t know I had an alterna-tive,’” she said. “The reason we’retalking to anyone about this is

because this is happening to otherpeople, and this will happen tomore people. What happened to ushappens to many more displacedpeople and they’re not going to beable to find reasonably pricedrentals.”

Feuer also said his office pro-motes fair competition and thatlaw-abiding hotels shouldn’t haveto compete with unlawful ones.

“There are so many differentissues that are adversely touchedon when one unlawfully convertsa rental unit into a short termrental instead,” he said.

Feuer also filed three civil casesagainst landlords in Hollywood andtwo in Venice for allegedly operat-ing rent-stabilized apartment build-ings as short-term rentals. GeorgePanoussis owns a 59-unit apart-ment building at 830 N. Van NessAve. and was allegedly operatingand advertising it as the HollywoodDream Suites Hotel in violation ofthe area’s residential zoning

requirements. Panoussis and his co-defendants allegedly denied inspec-tors access to the premises at leasteight times. In January 2014, thehousing department issued Ordersto Comply to the property ownerfor illegally using the property as ahotel without proper permits fromthe Department of Building andSafety. Those orders allegedly con-tinue to be ignored by the defen-dants. Feuer is seeking to impose a“receiver” to operate the propertieslegally and will also seek restitutionfor the displaced tenants as well asfinancial penalties.

Feuer said his office will contin-ue to strengthen its partnershipwith the housing department tocontinue to crack down on illegalshort-term rental use.

“It’s a large issue to be sure,” hesaid. “But it’s an issue that we cantake action on. My office will con-tinue to intervene to keep rent-sta-bilized units on the market andhold owners accountable for notcomplying with the law.”

Feuer will send a list of EllisAct properties to Airbnb and othershort-term rental platforms as apreemptive measure to preventlisting of similar properties. 

The City Planning Commissionwill consider the “Home-Sharing”ordinance today, which proposesto regulate the short-term rentalmarket in Los Angeles, at a hear-ing at 200 N. Spring Street. Thenew ordinance will determinelegally how often owners can rentspace on a short-term basis, aswell as other factors.

22 June 23, 2016 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press

Ellis Act abuse is a ‘large issue to be sure’From Ellis page 1

Residents push for full electorate for voteFrom initiative page 1

photo by Gregory Cornfield Tenants at 500 N. Genesee said they saw their units advertised onAirbnb weeks after they vacated.

“The reason we’retalking to anyone

about this isbecause this ishappening to

other people, andthis will happen to

more people.

- Carrie Kirshmanformer Genesee Ave. tenant

photos courtesy of the Garvey GroupAbove, the rendering shows how the developments were initiatllyplanned for Beverly Hills. Below, is the proposal for the Beverly HillsGarden and Open Space Initiative.

Governor Edmund G. Brown lastweek announced that Helen Lee,60, of Los Angeles, has beenappointed to the California

Commission on Asian and PacificIslander American Affairs.

Lee was a consultant for theRegional Government Services

Authority in 2014, a supervisor atthe Los Angeles CountyDepartment of Human Resourcesfrom 2005 to 2012 and a principal

consultant at H. Lee Associatesfrom 2002 to 2005.

Lee is a member of the SouthernCalifornia Public ManagementAssociation, Southeast RegionalOccupational Program Governing

Board and the Los AngelesChinatown Firecracker 10kCommittee. This position does notrequire Senate confirmation andthere is no compensation. Lee is ademocrat. 

Gov. appoints Angeleno to Asian and Pacific Islander commission

Page 23: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

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Page 24: Volume 26 No. 25 Serving the West Hollywood, …beverlypress.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/6.23-issue.pdfBeverly Hills Mayor John Mirisch asked all those in atten-dance at Tuesday

24 June 23, 2016 Park Labrea News/Beverly Press