MAY 31ST, 2024

FRIDAY

FRIDAY’S VIBES

 FRIDAY. YOU MADE IT,

GOOD LOOKIN’ 🙌 

🥳 HAPPY FRIDAY, CURATEDLA: The weekend is here! I hope that everyone has time to relax, have fun, and most importantly, time to treat themselves.

Speaking of which, more events to the calendar have been added, both trending and full-list. I’ve also enabled both calendars to now have full agenda view. Agenda views open in a new tab/window, so be sure to come back to CuratedLA before you wander off to the YouTube land of dolphins and celebrity surprise concerts (my recent search history).

Have a wonderful weekend everyone. - Wyatt

ps - reminder: CuratedLA publishes MWF. That said, content is long when we do publish so please use the HOV Lane (the need-to-knows) + tables of vibes (which must be read/used online, not in email app) accordingly! xx

TRENDING 

THE HOV LANE

EATS

LOCAL HEADLINES

 🎡 SANTA MONICA: EEEEEATSCON takes place next Saturday and Sunday, June 8th + 9th at The Barker Hangar in Santa Monica. This two-day festival is curated by local + popular restaurants, exciting imports from across the country, live music performances throughout the day and panels from thought leaders and industry pioneers. Children six + under (and service dogs of all ages) get in free. There will be vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.

🇰🇭 LONG BEACH: The United Cambodian Community, supported by Long Beach Food & Beverage, will pay homage to the unique foods of our Cambodian community with Cambodian Restaurant Week. The event runs from this Saturday, June 2nd - next Saturday, June 9th. Tickets and more information can be found here.

🍷 SILVER LAKE: A natural wine tasting will take place tonight at Barnsdall Park for the Barnsdall Wine Tasting Fundraiser. This beautiful landscape is located on the property of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House, where tours are also available. Folks are encouraged to grab a picnic blanket, while sipping and savoring a selection of artisanal wines curated by Silverlake Wine. Local food trucks + the local arts community will be on-hand to further the fun of tonight’s festivities.

🇲🇽 MORE SILVER LAKE: This upcoming Monday, June 3rd, the vegetable-focused pop-up Teotl will host a pop-up at Cafe Tropical in Silver Lake starting at 5:00pm. The pop-up will be a seasonal farmers market that is driven by dining choices inspired by Mexican roots and upbringings here within Los Angeles.

🎬️ HOLLYWOOD: Hollywood Bowl Day at Smorgasburg LA is this Sunday, June 2nd from 10:00am - 4:00pm. This is a free event that celebrates that launch of Hollywood Bowl’s Summer Season. Sunday’s shindig includes food (obvs), Mozz-art-ella under the stars, Beckon cheeseburger bowl, vendor specials, giveaways, music, drinks, and good vibes! 

OPENINGS

🥐 VICTOR HEIGHTS: Bakers Bench, the brainchild of renowned pastry chef Jennifer Yee, is opening their second location on Alpine Street in Victor Heights next Friday. Nestled in the Alpine Courtyard development, this expansion comes after the bakery’s meteoric rise to fame for its vegan renditions of beloved pastries. While the new outpost promises to retain the charm and menu of its Chinatown predecessor, it will also introduce more substantial fare, including sandwiches and focaccia slices, maintaining an impressive 80% vegan offering.

• 🥐 Bakery: Pies, Croissants, Vegan

• ⏰ Thurs - Mon: 8a - 3p

• 📸 Instagram

☕️ LARCHMONT: Dayglow Coffee just opened up a second location in Larchmont on Monday. This is the coffee brand’s third location in the space the formerly occupied Coffee+Food, and then Coffee+Coffee, across from Paramount Studios. The menu, a blend of simplicity and sophistication, spans ten categories, each a nod to Ifergan’s barista expertise and whimsical nods to cinema, like the Wes Anderson-inspired Signature Series. Dayglow is also set to open their fourth location soon on N Spring Street.

• ☕️ Cafe: Coffee, Milk, Espresso

• ⏰ Daily: 7a - 7p

• 💻️ Website | 📸 Instagram

☕️ EAST HOLLYWOOD: Ondo Coffee had their opening recently with a soft opening on May 25th in East Hollywood. Not too much is yet known to CuratedLA about Ondo Coffee, but thanks to the internet, they do have an Instagram and the place looks pretty near - I also love the ‘70s packaging.

• ☕️ Coffee: Coffee, Treats

• ⏰ Wed - Sun: 9a - 3p

• 💻️ Website | 📸 Instagram

☕️ MONTROSE: How’s It Going To End just opened up their coffee shack in Montrose. Conceived by the visionary minds behind numerous Blue Bottle locations, this spot is a meld of modern aesthetics and homely comfort. The greenery that frames the café is the handiwork of the same artists who’ve sculpted the serene landscapes of The Walker House and Sea Ranch Lodge. It’s not just the design that’s drawing in the crowds; the coffee, rumored to be sourced from Heart, is said to be as soul-warming as the ambiance. While the café’s online presence is still budding, local patrons have already taken to social media to praise its unique blend of architectural beauty and culinary delight. Whether it’s the allure of the design or the promise of a perfect cup, ‘How’s it going to end’ seems to have answered its own question: with a beginning that’s already captured the heart of Montrose.

• ☕️ Cafe: Coffee, Teas, Treats

• ⏰ Tues. - Sun: 8a - 2p

• 💻️ Website | 📸 Instagram

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TICKETS SELLING FAST

The Empire Strips Back: A Burlesque Parody

The hit burlesque parody The Empire Strips Back… is back at last!

Making its way to Los Angeles, this previously sold-out experience drops classic sci-fi characters into the world of burlesque. Don’t miss out!

Let us deliver you to the dark side! With comedy and allure, loving detail, and hilarious parody, The Empire Strips Back drops classic Star Wars characters into the world of burlesque. Be prepared for some seriously sultry Stormtroopers, a dangerously enticing Boba Fett, some tantalizing Twi'leks, a delightfully luke-warm Taun Taun, a lady-like Skywalker, the Droids you are looking for, and much, much more!

Don't miss out and get your tickets for The Empire Strips Back in Los Angeles!

EVENTS

BIG LIST OF EVENTS

[CLICK FOR FULL AGENDA VIEW]

TRENDING

[CLICK FOR FULL AGENDA VIEW]

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ACTIVITIES

🤲 VENICE: Saturday Soul takes place tomorrow at 10:00am in Venice. This unique event promises a revitalizing escape from the daily grind, offering a space where attendees can start their weekend feeling renewed and invigorated. The event, known for its vibrant energy and soulful vibe, is akin to a modern-day variety show infused with gospel elements and an undeniable sense of fun. It’s a place where connections are made, talents are showcased, and life is celebrated in all its fullness. The morning kicks off with light refreshments, followed by an array of musical and performance acts starting at 10:30am.

🧘‍♂️ SANTA MONICA: Oasis is hosting Summer Yoga Sculpt tomorrow at 11:00am. We all have the opportunity to get our down-word-dog on over some Yogi Bear, surrounded by the Oasis’ beachfront views of Santa Monica. Yogis can also enjoy free vitamin shots + wellness goodies from their amazing brand sponsors. More information via Instagram.

🚴 PASADENA: As the sun sets over South Pasadena, the Sierra Club invites nature enthusiasts to a serene evening hike along the Arroyo Seco trail this Tuesday. Starting at 6:30pm near the San Pasqual Stables, participants will embark on a three-mile journey through time, tracing the footsteps of the area’s Indigenous peoples and exploring the rich tapestry of local flora and fauna. The trek promises not just exercise but an educational experience, delving into the trail’s significance in Pasadena’s natural heritage. The hike concludes at 9:00pm, and while four-legged friends must stay home, human hikers are encouraged to sign up at angeles.sierraclub.org for an adventure under the twilight sky.

🎷 GETTY CENTER: OFF THE 405, Getty Center’s free outdoor concert series, starts tomorrow night with a free performance by Hailu Mergia and a DJ set by Mark Maxwel. Come join the fun, music, and good-vibes with this free + family-friendly event. RSVP tickets are required.

🎭️ TOPANGA: The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum unveils its 2024 season, kicking off tomorrow with a Shakespearean double feature. The journey begins tomorrow night with The Winter’s Tale, a tale of jealousy and redemption, followed by the enchanting A Midsummer Night’s Dream on Sunday. Nestled in the Topanga hills, the Theatricum’s amphitheater offers a unique setting for these timeless classics, where tragedy meets comedy, and love’s transformative power is celebrated under the stars.

🎨 GLASSELL PARK: Join Haivyn Daisy and Sol Market for a Pottery Paint & Sip at Little Ripper this Sunday from 3:00pm - 5:00pm. During this evening of wine and creativity each participant will receive a pre-bisqued ceramic wine goblet (a blank canvas awaiting your self expression). Ceramic Artist, Haivyn Daisy, will be on site to guide you through the glazing process. Wether it’s an intricate design or personal message, you’re sure to end up with a piece that’s uniquely you. After our evening together Haivyn will apply a glossy food safe overglaze, fire them for a 2nd time, and they will be available for pickup in 2-2.5 weeks. Delivery or shipping is available for an additional fee if needed. Register + buy tickets online.

🔠 CULVER CITY: REMINDER! The Casual Creative in Esme in Culver City Downtown is hosting Word Play & Collaging for an evening of guided journaling, creative writing and collaging. The event takes place Sunday, June 2nd from 5:00pm - 7:00pm. Unwind and immerse yourself in the healing act of putting pen to paper as you sip delicious natural wine. We will start the evening with some guided fun writing prompts and then have free time to build collages inspired by our writings or just for fun! 

You’ll get:

• Your own journal (I can smell the brand new pages from here )

• Collage materials to get your creative juices flowing

• Juicy writing prompts that will convince you that you are, in fact, a writer!

• A glass of wine or a non-alc beverage of choice.

• A welcoming atmosphere—everyone will be seated at communal tables, perfect for connecting with friends or meeting new people

  • Tickets and more information here | 💌 

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COMMUNITY

🍎 FOOD BANK: Los Angeles County officials and community leaders gathered yesterday at Compton’s Alma Backyard Farms to inaugurate a ten-million dollar grant initiative aimed at fortifying the local food system. The funding, sourced from the American Rescue Plan Act, will be allocated to forty organizations as part of the Los Angeles County Food Equity Roundtable’s mission. The event also marked the debut of the LA County Office for Food Equity, with representatives from diverse groups outlining their vision for nurturing healthier neighborhoods.

🐝 LOCAL SPELLING BEE FINALIST: Shrey Parikh, a twelve-year-old prodigy from the Inland Empire, soared to the top ranks, clinching a third-place tie at the Scripps National Spelling Bee yesterday. His journey ended on a bittersweet note as he stumbled on ‘kanin’, a Filipino term for boiled rice. Yet, amidst the intense competition, the warmth of camaraderie shone through; Shrey’s peers, including champion Bruhat Soma and runner-up Faizan Zaki, shared heartfelt moments of support. The trio, all mentored by teenage spelling ace Sam Evans, showcased the power of preparation and friendship. As the confetti settled, the young spellers’ shared dreams and dedication hinted at a bright future.

🚨 PCH X PACIFIC PALISADES: Caltrans has confirmed that two lanes are now open in each direction at Porto Marina Way, despite ongoing construction to address the Tramonto slide. Efforts to enhance safety and traffic flow will continue through Friday, with plans to install a k-rail and additional signage. Commuters should expect one lane to remain open during overnight construction hours from 7:00pm to 6:00am. The initial phase of the project, which began Tuesday, aims to establish a second northbound lane near Sunset Boulevard, as the existing right lane remains closed due to slide instability. This extensive realignment, including lane grinding, repaving, and restriping, is part of a larger $3.35 million initiative to ensure a safer and more efficient travel experience along this scenic route. ℹ️ 

💰️ STARTUP MONEY: The City of Glendale is calling for proposals to spearhead startup growth initiatives, backed by a one million dollar grant from the state’s business development office. Since adopting the Glendale Tech Strategy in 2017, the city has seen the launch of Hero House and KidsX, which have cultivated a robust startup scene. David Crawley Delgado, the city’s Senior Economic Development Coordinator, highlights the success of these programs as a foundation for future expansion. The upcoming accelerator will be expected to demonstrate a proven track record, industry connections, and a sustainable financial plan, aligning with the city’s tech vision. Bradley Calvert, Director of Community Development, sees this as a chance to draw diverse tech talent and jobs to Glendale. With a deadline of June 28th 2024, interested parties are directed to ChooseGlendaleCA.com for proposal submission details.

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DEVELOPMENT

🎬️ HOLLYWOOD: A new affordable housing option is now open in Hollywood for those that work within the entertainment industry. The Cicely Tyson residential building, part of the Hollywood Arts Collective, is offering a rare opportunity for those in the entertainment industry to find affordable housing in an area known for its exorbitant costs. With studios starting at just $600, the complex is a game-changer, providing not just a roof but a community where creatives can thrive. The project, which transformed a mundane city parking lot into a vibrant living space, now houses a theater and arts gallery, providing a sense of excitement among the tenants.

🚂 BURBANK X PALMDALE: The California High-Speed Rail Authority has unveiled the Final Environmental Impact Report for the Palmdale to Burbank section of the state’s ambitious high-speed rail project. The comprehensive document lays out the potential environmental repercussions, spanning traffic, air quality, and natural habitats, while proposing six alternative tracks stretching 31 to 38 miles. The Authority’s board is slated to deliberate on this report in their upcoming June 26th and June 27th meetings. The spotlight is on the SR14A route, a 38-mile journey slicing through the Angeles National Forest to Burbank, promising a swift 17-minute ride from Palmdale—shaving off a significant chunk from the current hour-plus drive. This development, particularly the above-ground segments in Pacoima and Sun Valley, is poised to reshape local traffic dynamics, yet construction awaits the green light for a connecting tunnel, as per Authority spokesperson Jim Patrick.

🚴 PCH PROTECTED BIKE LANES: Caltrans is proposing the addition of bike lanes along the Pacific Coast Highway stretch from the Los Angeles River to The Traffic Circle. This initiative comes in the wake of last year’s tragic fatalities, casting a spotlight on the dangers of this segment of PCH. Caltrans is considering three potential designs, including the construction of a protective raised median, to foster a safer environment for cyclists and pedestrians. The proposed changes could see the current three-lane configuration in each direction reduced to two, with the existing parking lanes repurposed. Councilmember Suely Saro has publicly endorsed the project, highlighting its potential to bridge connectivity gaps and bolster safety for all users. Community members are invited to contribute their perspectives through an online survey or by attending a public meeting scheduled for June 6th at The Guidance Center in Long Beach.

💼 DOWNTOWN BURBANK: Downtown Burbank Property Based Business Improvement District has unveiled the ongoing construction of a sprawling mixed-use complex adjacent to the Burbank Metrolink Station. Slated for completion in early 2025, the project by LaTerra Development, in partnership with QuadReal Property Group, is rising on an eight-acre lot at 777 N. Front Street. The ambitious venture promises to deliver 573 residential units, including 69 affordable homes, a 307-key hotel, and versatile commercial spaces. Highlighting the luxury amenities, a 40,000-square-foot rooftop haven will feature dual swimming pools, a state-of-the-art fitness center, co-working areas, and screening rooms. Enhancing connectivity, the development plans to introduce two-way bike lanes, a transit plaza, and improved access to the rail station and downtown core.

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BUSINESS

💰️ CONFERENCE REMARKS: Warner Bros. Discovery’s CEO David Zaslav signals a strategic shift towards potential mergers and acquisitions, eyeing opportunities in the next few years. Amidst a backdrop of financial recalibration, with a reported revenue dip to $41.3 billion and a substantial net loss, Zaslav remains optimistic about the company’s global expansion and debt reduction efforts. He anticipates a market consolidation, predicting a future dominated by a handful of global streaming giants. Zaslav hints at a possible industry shake-up, suggesting that some players may exit or merge their streaming services, while Warner Bros. Discovery positions itself as a disciplined yet opportunistic contender in this high-stakes game.

📺️ COMCAST: Comcast has introduced Xfinity StreamSaver, a new bundle that provides Xfinity customers with access to Apple TV+, Netflix’s ad-supported tier, and Peacock for a monthly fee of $15. This bundle, which promises a 30% cost saving, comes on the heels of similar offerings in the streaming industry. Although Peacock was previously available to Xfinity users at no extra cost, the addition of StreamSaver and the optional NOW TV package, which includes over forty live channels and numerous FAST channels for an additional $15, marks a significant expansion of Comcast’s entertainment portfolio. Dave Watson, Comcast’s CEO of Connectivity and Platforms, has lauded StreamSaver as a win-win for both consumers and business partners, citing the extended reach and promotional power of Xfinity. Amidst a competitive streaming landscape where giants like Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery are also launching bundles, Comcast’s focus remains on bolstering its broadband business, despite a slight customer decline in early 2023. Peacock, a key player in NBCUniversal and Comcast’s strategy since its 2020 debut, continues to gain prominence within the company’s broader ambitions.

💵 DOLLAR TREE X 99 CENT STORE: Dollar Tree is set to open new stores across four states, including California, through the acquisition of 170 locations from the financially troubled 99 Cents Only Stores. This move comes after the Southern California-based discount chain, known for its affordable groceries, filed for bankruptcy, prompting the closure of all 370 stores and impacting budget-conscious shoppers. Dollar Tree, which also operates Family Dollar, plans to leverage these new sites to enhance its presence in the western U.S., offering a diverse range of products from party essentials to household goods.

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ENTERTAINMENT

🐺 WOLFS: George Clooney and Brad Pitt reunite for the action comedy WOLFS. Clooney plays a professional fixer hired to cover up a high profile crime. But when a second fixer (Pitt) shows up and the two “lone wolves” are forced to work together, they find their night spiraling out of control in ways that neither one of them expected. Coming to theaters September 20th. Watch trailer, above.

🏡 NETFLIX WANTS AN IDOL (OR FIVE): Netflix is introducing a new music-competition show. The streaming company is curating Building the Band, a show where musicians collaborate unseen until their final act, mixing the mystery of Love Is Blind with The Voice. The show will comprise of fifty singers making a connection amongst one another through onmusical compatibility, connection, and musical merit.

🐻 THE BEAR ON FX: FX is set to broadcast the acclaimed first season of The Bear on its linear channel with a marathon starting this Sunday, June 2nd. Previously exclusive to Hulu, the Emmy-winning series will showcase two episodes nightly at 10:00pm ET/PT until June 5th. This event precedes the Season 3 premiere on June 27th, with all episodes dropping on Hulu for binge-watching. The show’s first season, spanning eight episodes, has garnered critical acclaim, securing ten Emmys, including Outstanding Comedy Series, and awards for lead actors Jeremy Allen White, Ayo Edebiri, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach.

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SPORTS

🏀 SPARKS OVER INDIANA + CLARK: The Los Angeles Sparks overcame a 30-point performance from rookie sensation Caitlin Clark to secure an 88-82 triumph against the Indiana Fever. The victory was particularly sweet as it avenged a previous loss at Crypto.com Arena, despite Clark’s impressive stats of 30 points, six assists, and five rebounds. Sparks’ coach Curt Miller praised his team’s defensive efforts, which were pivotal in containing Clark’s scoring. The match also showcased the talents of top WNBA draft picks, with Clark and Cameron Brink going head-to-head, but it was the seasoned duo of Kia Nurse and Aari McDonald who truly shined, leading the Sparks’ charge with a critical 28-8 run. Despite some rough patches and a high turnover rate, the Sparks’ sharpshooting from beyond the arc was a season highlight, signaling a potential turnaround for the team’s early struggles.

🤝 TYRONN LUE X CLIPPERS: The Los Angeles Clippers have locked in Tyronn Lue with a lucrative five-year, $70-million extension, making him one of the NBA’s top-earning coaches. The deal, confirmed by insiders close to the negotiations, caps off a series of successful discussions between team executives and Lue’s representative, Andy Miller. Lue, whose strategic acumen is highly regarded in the league, remains a cornerstone for the Clippers following a playoff defeat. His expressed dedication to the franchise and strong rapport with the leadership, including owner Steve Ballmer, signals a harmonious and ambitious path ahead for the team.

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FRIDAY, BABY!

🤙 Have a wonderful, wonderful weekend Family,

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