🤙 Good vibes with a surprise

Good vibes presented by Brad's Deals

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NOVEMBER 15TH, 2024

Going all in on something for a month gets better results than dabbling in it for a decade.

Partly Cloudy ⛅️ 
High 64 | Low 44
Rise 6:26 | Set 4:50

Surf Report 🏄‍♀️ 
Highs 7:52a, 9:21p
Lows 3:00p, 2:11a

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FRIDAY’S VIBES

HAPPY FRIDAY

PARTY PEOPLE

FRIDAY EATS 🥳 Win a Night Out at Palma Ristorante in Burbank:

  • Weekend vibes are here, CuratedLA Fam, and we’re celebrating with a special treat! We’ve partnered with Palma Ristorante in Downtown Burbank (blurb below in Eats Section) to give one lucky Curator a $200 dinner credit. All you need to do is click ‘Yes’ in the poll below to enter. Bring a guest and enjoy a fantastic night of Italian cuisine—just be sure to tip the wonderful staff generously (gratuity isn’t included!).


    Not a CuratedLA Curator yet? Sign up for free and join in on the fun.

    The drawing is random, and we’ll announce the winner next week. I’ll personally reach out, so make sure your best email is on file. Best of luck! Have a wonderful weekend, CuratedLA Family!

Raffle: Dinner for two at Palma Ristorante in Downtown Burbank?

Login or Subscribe to participate in polls.

  • Note: Responses are recorded though it might not seem as such: clicking a poll option brings you to today’s newsletter in-browser. But I have received responses, and it is working…so thank you! Wyatt

  • Are you a brand owner that would like to collaborate with us? If so, we’ve updated our CuratedLA Media Kit for Q1 2025.

BRAD’S DEALS

Why we’re fall-ing in love with Wayfair

It's no secret that Wayfair is a fun place to shop, but in a world where every penny counts, we're not just looking to have fun. Our goal is to save big on quality home goods as we gear up for the holidays. In case you're wondering, "Is Wayfair legit?" or "Is Wayfair furniture good quality?", we can confidently answer yes to those questions, and if you read Wayfair reviews, you’ll find that thousands of customers agree with us.

But there are even more reasons to love Wayfair, and Brad's Deals rounded up their top reasons. Brad (yes, it's a real guy) was a broke college student who found cheaper ways to shop and shared them with his friends in the early 2000’s. Now their experts search the web to find the best deals, and share them with users. To join the club, all you need is an email address.

HOV LANES

LOCAL

FUN

LAPD Chief Jim McDonnell to be sworn in today. 🐇 

Linkin Park to play Dodger Stadium as part of 2025 world tour.

Social impact gift guide: shop over eighty, local gifts for good.

Best dishes Eater Los Angeles Editors ate this week: November 11th.

Culver City PD offers free crime prevention evaluations for businesses.

Ice skating returns to Downtown Santa Monica for Holiday Season.

Olympic officials visit Los Angeles to visit LA28 venues, check on progress.

LA Zoo Lights presents first-ever Holiday Pajama weekend pop-up.

Around Town: City tree lighting, Pupsgiving play date + donuts.

The Hit List: New LA restaurants to try right now.

NATIONAL

🏆️ OSCARS: Conan O’Brien tapped to host the next Academy Awards.

📺️ TODAY SHOW: Craig Melvin named the next co-anchor of NBC’s Today Show.

💎 GOOGLE: Google now offers a standalone Gemini app for iPhone.

🚀 EARNINGS: Disney earnings offer hope that streaming can be successful.

⚡️ LASERS: Scientists discover laser light can cast a shadow.

🔗 CURATEDLA: Last newsletter’s most viewed content: There are over one hundred neighborhoods in the City of LA. Here’s a visual map.

TODAY: 15TH

SATURDAY: 16TH

TODAY IS: Steve Irwin Day, Recycling Day, Bundt Day + others.

SATURDAY IS: Fast Food Day, International Day of Tolerance + others.

NETFLIX: Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson

NCAA I: 23 Missouri at 21 South Carolina, 1:15pm on SEC Network

NETFLIX II: Season 6, Cobra Kai

NCAA II: 7 Tennessee at 12 Georgia, 4:30pm on ABC/ESPN+

MOVIES: Red One, 2024 Christmas action-adventure, fantasy/comedy

UFC: UFC 309: Jones vs. Miocic

MUSIC I: Shawn (new album), Shawn Mendes

SNL: Charli XCX, playing both host and musical guest.

MUSIC II: Bouquet, Gwen Stefani

SHOP: Shop CuratedLA for this upcoming Holiday Season.

MUSIC III: From Zero, Linkin Park

PARTNER: Collab with us at CuratedLA.

SUNDAY: 17TH

SUNDAY IS: Bible Week Begins, International Students Day, Take a Hike Day, Butter Day, Homemade Bread Day, Baklava Day + others.

HBO: Season 1, Dune: Prophecy

PARAMOUNT+: Season 1, Landman

EATS

HEADLINES

CHIPOTLE 🌯 Chipotle Taps Scott Boatwright as New CEO to Drive Growth:

  • Chipotle Mexican Grill has appointed Scott Boatwright as its new CEO, marking a key step for the company's next phase. Formerly the Chief Operating Officer and Interim CEO, Boatwright has been instrumental in Chipotle’s growth, overseeing operations across 3,600 locations and 125,000 employees. Known for enhancing guest experiences and integrating new technology, he also led efforts that brought high retention rates within the organization. Chipotle’s board expressed full confidence in Boatwright, highlighting his leadership strength and alignment with the brand’s values. Boatwright, with previous experience at Arby’s, is set to advance Chipotle's community-focused mission and long-term growth strategy. 💌 

SUBWAY 🥪 Subway Rolls Out Fresh Forward 2.0 for a Modernized Experience:

  • Subway has unveiled its Fresh Forward 2.0 store design, a vibrant update aimed at enhancing guest convenience and boosting franchisee profitability. Building on its 2017 Fresh Forward design, this next-gen layout includes bold wall graphics, localized signage, upgraded lighting, and warm wood tones, capturing Subway’s refreshed brand personality. Key new features like self-service kiosks and kitchen display systems accelerate the chain’s digital journey as loyalty-driven digital sales climb. Positive early feedback indicates a boost in customer satisfaction and return visits. Fresh Forward 2.0 is set to launch in the U.S., U.K., Germany, and beyond, supporting Subway’s global growth strategy as it expands across over 10,000 international units.

OPENINGS

BURBANK 🇮🇹 Palma Ristorante: A New Italian Destination in Burbank:

  • Palma Ristorante, the fine folks we’ve partnered with on our raffle, recently opened their premier fine dining establishment and it looks yum! Palma Ristorante offers an exceptional Italian and Mediterranean-inspired menu by Chef Emidio Tidu. Featuring a raw bar with oysters, crudos, and a signature seafood tower, along with house-made pastas like squid-ink Tagliolini and Pappardelle con Coda Alla Vaccinara, Palma combines sophisticated flavors with a refined ambiance. Guests can enjoy wood-fired pizzas, prime-aged steaks, decadent desserts, and an extensive beverage program, including signature cocktails and premium wines. With its elegant, modern design and versatile seating options, Palma Ristorante promises a dynamic dining experience perfect for any occasion.

WEST HOLLYWOOD 🌿 Erewhon set to bring wellness-driven shopping to WeHo:

  • Erewhon is preparing to open its latest location in West Hollywood on Santa Monica Boulevard., the former site of Sprouts Farmers Market. Since Sprouts closed in March 2023, the space has sat empty, awaiting a fresh tenant. Erewhon, known for its organic, ethically sourced offerings and community-focused mission, is expected to attract high-end shoppers, joining neighboring upscale spots like John Reed Fitness. While the opening date remains under wraps, Erewhon’s arrival promises a revitalized presence in this block, adding a much-needed lift to an area dotted with vacant storefronts.

SILVER LAKE ☕️ Picnic Coffee - Reviving Silver Lake’s Storied Coffee Corner:

GRANDA HILLS 🥑 Vibrant Mexican in Granada Hills:

HOLLYWOOD 🌽 Hollywood’s New Literary Escape is a Bar:

LONG BEACH 🥃 A Soft Opening Season for Long Beach - Tokyo Noir:

  • A soft opening season is taking place in Long Beach for its newest hush-hush cocktail bar, Tokyo Noir. This intimate Japanese-style bar, combines artful mixology with precision and an izakaya-inspired menu. Bartender Kevin Lee, formerly of The Wolves, delivers seasonal cocktails like mezcal highballs and Astro Boy, featuring sweet potato shochu. Patrons can expect exacting techniques, from cocktail ‘throwing’ to ice imported from Japan. Curations of bar bites can be had from Chef Ulises Piñeda-Alfaro, including wagyu skewers and miso-deviled eggs. And for the aesthetics, prepared to get bunkered-in with wood-paneled inspirations from Tokyo listening bars.

BURBANK 🍔 Burbank’s New Burger Haven: The Mouth Reimagines Fast Food Staples:

ARCADIA 🐮 Red Rock Brings Japanese Artisan Beef Don to Arcadia:

  • Red Rock has officially arrived in Arcadia, bringing a unique blend of Asian Japanese artisan cuisine and Spanish-style bar vibes to the heart of the city. Located at 400 S Baldwin Ave, Suite M20, this flagship location is set to make waves with its signature dish, the 'American Sliced Beef Don®,' a hit in Japan and awarded the prestigious Gaisyoku-Award in 2016. Sliced beef served over rice, grilled to perfection, and sizzle-cooked on the spot, the Steak Don® takes center stage during both lunch and dinner hours. Red Rock's menu is carefully crafted with a steam convection process and an innovative cooking method that guarantees every bite is as fresh as it is flavorful.

GARDEN GROVE 🇰🇷 A New Korean Flavor in Garden Grove - Bab N Banchan:

  • Bab N Banchan, a celebrated Korean eatery, has opened its latest location in Garden Grove on Magnolia Street, bringing its unique take on Korean comfort food to the heart of Orange County. The restaurant offers a diverse range of dishes, including signature items like the Hinoki Steam Beef Brisket and a variety of cold noodles like Mul Naengmyeon. Known for their deliciously seasoned banchan (side dishes) and indulgent main courses such as Bulgogi and Spicy Pork Bulgogi, Bab N Banchan elevates traditional offerings in a mixture of modern curations.

VENICE 🇵🇪 New Pop-Up from Scratch Restaurants:

LOS FELIZ 🍹 Bar One Brings Sophistication to Los Feliz with a Neighborhood Twist:

VAN NUYS 🍔 Unapologetically Bold Bites Hit Van Nuys with Anti Vegan Burger:

  • With a name as daring as the flavor, Anti Vegan Burger is taking San Fernando Valley by storm, dishing out top-tier wagyu smashburgers from its eye-catching purple truck parked along Victory Boulevard in Van Nuys. For carnivores and burger enthusiasts alike, the truck has quickly become a go-to for high-quality bites and an unexpected variety of sauces – thirteen in total, including a fiery ketchup and tangy mustard aioli. Known for fresh ingredients and a tongue-in-cheek attitude, Anti Vegan Burger has earned rave reviews for everything from its wagyu patties and smash tacos to loaded fries, making it a favorite among former vegans and burger fans craving a flavorful alternative.

SANTA MONICA 🥑 Desvelados Cantina Brings an Elevated Taste of Mexico to Santa Monica:

  • Desvelados Cantina had its grand opening yesterday (Monday) for its Downtown Santa Monica location on 4th Street. Desvelados brings an elevated Mexican dining experience with a menu rich in tacos, signature moles, and crafted cocktails. This is the sixth location of the popular cantina chain which celebrated their grand opening with live mariachi and special community offers. Desvelados adds a lively, authentic taste of Mexico to the Santa Monica food scene.

EAT LINKS

📍 HILLSTONE: Every location of LA’s best chain restaurant, ranked, via The Infatuation.

💰️ GRUBHUB: Wonder acquires Grubhub for $650m, via Retail TouchPoints.

🦃 THANKSGIVING: Thanksgiving Dinner made easy in Los Angeles, via Los Angeles Magazine.

🍽️ SOLO THANKSGIVING: Alone in the city for Thanksgiving? Try these welcoming Friendsgiving events, via LAist.

🍳 SANTA MONICA: LA’s best new breakfast sandwich destination has arrived at Calabama in Santa Monica, via Eater: Los Angeles.

🏠️ HOME RESTAURANTS: Home kitchen mini-restaurants now a thing in Los Angeles County. Oh, and it’s legal too, via Press-Telegram.

☕️ PASADENA: Coffee with a cause in Pasadena: Starbucks opens new café and drive-thru, via Colorado Boulevard.

EVENTS

 💸 Free

🎈Family

🐇 Politics

🪙 Budget

🙈 Adults

🏳️‍🌈 Pride

FRIDAY

FRIDAY: 15TH

6:00PM 🎤 MAE MARTIN: Mae Martin and Friends. Largo at the Coronet.

6:00PM 🤘 NAILS: With Xibalba. The Belasco.

6:30PM 🎸 DANIEL NOAH MILLER: With Eileen Allway. The Moroccan Lounge.

7:00PM 🪩 JOHN SUMMIT: Live in Los Angeles. Kia Forum.

7:00PM 🎸 RICHY MITCH & THE COAL MINERS: With Will Paquin. The Troubadour.

7:00PM 🔥 SABRINA CARPENTER: With Declan McKenna. Crypto Arena.

7:30PM 🎸 NIGHT TAPES: Live in Los Angeles. The Roxy.

8:00PM 🤘 3TEETH: With Gost, Purest Form + Black Market. The Bellwether.

8:00PM 🎤 TONIGHT AT THE IMPROV: Featuring. Caroline Rhea, Brent Morin, Frankie Quinones, Doug Benson, Clint Coley, Mike Falzone, and more TBA! Hollywood Improv.

8:00PM 🔥 STING: With Elew. The Wiltern.

8:00PM 🪩 RAINBOW KITTEN SURPRISE: With Madi Diaz. Hollywood Palladium.

8:00PM 🎸 BLIND PILOT: Live in Los Angeles. Teragram Ballroom.

8:00PM 🔥 FUERZA REGIDA: Pero No Te Enamores Tour 2024. Intuit Dome.

8:00PM 🎸 BRAVO THE BAGCHASER: With Peysoh, Lil Maru, Lou Deezi, Zoe Osama, Lambo4oe, Ji Bandz, AFN Peso + X4. The Novo.

9:00PM 🎸 GORGON CITY: With Bontan + Jackie Hollander. Shrine Expo Hall.

9:00PM 🎸 DEADLY GUNS: Live in Los Angeles. The Regent Theater.

9:00PM 🎸 TASSEL: With Bestial Mouths, Lana Del Rabies + Dot Wall. Jewel’s Catch One.

SATURDAY

SATURDAY: 16TH

12:00PM 🎸 NOON TO MIDNIGHT - FIELD RECORDINGS: Free! 💸 Walt Disney Concert Hall.

6:00PM 🎸 ANNABELLE CHAIRLEGS: Live in LA. Permanent Records Roadhouse.

6:00PM 🎸 THE RED PEARS: With Late Night Drive Home, Archer Oh, Mexican Slum, Rats, SadGirl, & Floats. Shrine Expo Hall.

6:30PM 🎸 MATES FEST: With Claud, Kacy Hill, Jaguar Jonze, Puma Blue, Ian Sweet, Vacation, WAAX, and Yot Club. The Bellwether.

7:00PM 🔥 JOHN SUMMIT: With Cassian, Danny Avila, and Jenessa Acosta. The Kia Forum.

7:00PM 🎸 Z BERG: Z Berg And Friends with Z Berg. Barnsdall Gallery Theatre.

7:00PM 🎸 RICHY MITCH: Richy Mitch & the Coal Miners with Will Paquin. The Troubadour.

7:00PM 🎸 MAT KEARNEY: With Darren Kiely. House of Blues Anaheim.

8:00PM 🔥 FUERZA REGIDA: Live in Los Angeles. Intuit Dome.

8:00PM 🎸 LA INDIA YURIDIA: Live in Los Angeles. YouTube Theater.

8:00PM 🔥 STING: With Elew. The Wiltern.

8:00PM 🔥 COLD WAR KIDS: With Husbands. The Observatory.

8:00PM 🎸 LUIS ÁNGEL: ‘El Flaco’ with Luis Antonio López ‘El Mimoso.’ Peacock Theater.

8:00PM 🎸 TED LEO: Ted Leo And The Pharmacists performing Shake The Sheets. The Belasco.

8:00PM 🎸 LETTERS TO CLEO: With Party Nails. The Venice West.

8:00PM 🎸 WALTER MITTY: JWalter Mitty And His Makeshift Orchestra with Nymphlord. The Echo.

8:30PM 🎸 BLOOD ORANGE: With Liam Benzvi. The Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever Cemetery.

8:30PM 🎸 EARTHLESS: With Sacri Monti & Sonic Blossoms. The Lodge Room.

9:00PM 🎸 LP GIOBBI: With Mascolo and Le Chev. The Fonda Theatre.

9:00PM 🎸 KIASMOS: With Ben Lukas Boysen. The Regent Theater.

9:00PM 🎸 CHAPARELLE: Live in Los Angeles. El Rey Theatre.

9:00PM 🎸 THE WILDLIFE: With Young Culture. The Roxy.

9:00PM 🎸 SPARE PARTS FOR BROKEN HEARTS: With Cuffed Up and Tiny Stills. Permanent Records Roadhouse.

SUNDAY

SUNDAY: 17TH

2:00PM 🎞️ JOE HISAISHI: Hisaishi Leads Pictures at an Exhibition with Joe Hisaishi, Emmanuel Ceysson, & Los Angeles Philharmonic. Walt Disney Concert Hall.

6:00PM 🎸 FRASER A. GORMAN: With Lore and Moorea Sunshine. Permanent Records Roadhouse.

6:00PM 🎸 DOCTOR WU: Steely Dan Tribute. Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Grill & Jazz.

6:30PM 🎸 BAILEY SPINN: Live in Los Angeles. The Moroccan Lounge.

7:00PM 🎸 LLS ORCHESTRA: LLS Orchestra at the Broad Stage: Brahm, Debussy, and Ravel with Elisabetta Russo and Jason Stoll. The Eli and Edythe Broad Stage.

7:00PM 🔥 SABRINA CARPENTER: With Declan McKenna. Kia Forum.

7:00PM 🔥 VERTICAL HORIZON: Everything You Want 25th Anniversary Tour. Troubadour.

7:30PM 🎸 SPIRITBOX: An evening with Spiritbox. Lodge Room.

8:00PM 🎸 STING: With Elew. The Wiltern.

8:00PM 🤠 COWBOY BEBOP: Cowboy Bebop Live! With Bebop Bounty Big Band. The Belasco.

8:00PM 🔥 COMEDY JAM: Jim Jefferies, Harland Williams, Erik Griffin, Steph Tolev, Frankie Quiñones + more! The Comedy Store.

9:00PM 🎸 SPIRITUALIZATIONS: With Nate Varrone and Eric Rahill. Permanent Records Roadhouse.

FIVE FUTURES

FIVE FUTURES

MONDAY, 8:00PM 🎤 SHIMMY SHIMMY YA: A David Spade, Russell Peters, Harland Williams, Adam Ray, Ken Flores + more! The Comedy Store.

WEDNESDAY, 8:00PM 🎤 FRED ARMISEN: Fred Armisen and Friends. Largo at the Coronet.

THURSDAY, 7:30PM 🎸 THE BEACH BOYS: Hawthorne’s own, The Beach Boys. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.

NEXT FRIDAY, 7:00PM 🌕️ STAR WARS IN CONCERT: John Williams Spotlight with Sarah Hicks, Anthony Daniels, and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Walt Disney Concert Hall.

NEXT FRIDAY, 8:00PM 💋 JOHN C. REILLY: John C. Reilly is Mister Romantic. Largo at the Coronet.

GUIDES

GUIDES

📆 WEEKEND: Things to do this weekend in Los Angeles, via We Like L.A.

🗓️ MORE WEEKEND: Best things to do this weekend in Los Angeles and Southern California, via LAist.

🍁 NOVEMBER: 33 memorable things to do and events in Los Angeles this November, via Secret Los Angeles.

🪵 BONFIRE: These are the best beaches around Los Angeles for a chill bonfire night, via Secret Los Angeles.

ACTIVITIES

CENTURY CITY 🎀 Hello Kitty Love Goes Los Angeles With Build-A-Bear:

  • The first-ever Hello Kitty and Friends-themed Build-A-Bear Workshop is opening today Westfield Century City. The event offers fans an exclusive L.A. experience. Alongside a special white-and-purple Hello Kitty plush exclusive to Los Angeles, visitors can personalize beloved Sanrio characters like Kuromi and Cinnamoroll with outfits, scents, and accessories. A heartfelt Heart Ceremony adds a magical touch to the creation process, while limited-edition holiday-themed plushies infuse festive cheer. Located on the second floor, this workshop blends nostalgia and creativity, promising memories for Sanrio lovers of all ages.

CHINATOWN 🧵 Handmade Wonders Await at Renegade Craft This Weekend:

WEST HOLLYWOOD 🖼️ Explore Color in Transition - Doug Ohlson’s Private Values:

  • Our friends at Louis Stern Fine Arts present Doug Ohlson: Private Values, a rare showcase of the artist's transitional works from 1969 to the early 1970s. Starting tomorrow, this exhibition features vibrant orbs painted with a mix of brush and aerosol techniques, set against rich, colorful backdrops. These pieces highlight Ohlson’s early exploration of chromatic relationships, marking a pivotal shift in his career toward making color the centerpiece of his work. The opening reception will be held tomorrow from 5:00pm - 7:00pm, welcoming visitors into an era of color innovation. Doug Ohlson: Private Values runs until January 11th, 2025. 💌 

BURBANK 🍷 Sip, Stroll, and Celebrate at Burbank’s Winter Wine Walk:

  • Burbank’s Downtown Winter Wine Walk & Street Fair returns next Saturday, November 23rd, turning San Fernando Boulevard into a festive wonderland from noon to 8:00pm. This annual event features local wine tastings starting at 4:00pm., along with live entertainment and artisan vendors. The street fair and main stage are free to explore, while wine-tasting tickets, available online or at the door, grant access to a variety of pours for guests 21 + over. VIP tickets offer exclusive entry to the Holiday Lounge at the Burbank Terrace. More details and ticket options are available online.

ACTIVITY LINKS

🎄 HOLLYWOOD: Jeremy Renner named Hollywood Christmas Parade grand marshal, via KTLA.

COMMUNITY

LA X SF 🚈 Luxury Overnight Trains Aim to Connect L.A. and San Francisco:

  • Dreamstar Lines, a Newport Beach-based transit startup, is advancing plans for a high-end overnight rail service between Los Angeles and San Francisco. Partnering with BMW Group’s Designworks, the company unveiled its vision for train cars featuring first-class suites, standard seating with private bedrooms, and lounge cars with bars. Set to offer a hotel-like experience, passengers could travel between the two cities while sleeping comfortably, avoiding the hassles of short-haul flights or traditional rail. Using the Coast Line railroad, Dreamstar hopes to launch by summer 2025, promising an eco-friendly and elegant alternative to current travel options.

FORECAST ☔️ Chilly Days Ahead - Rain, Snow, and Cooler Temps Hit LA:

  • A low-pressure system moving into the Southland will bring a slight chance of rain tonight, primarily in northern mountains, where up to a quarter-inch could fall. Snow levels may drop to 3,500 feet by Saturday morning, with a dusting possible near the Grapevine. Temperatures will plunge 10–12 degrees below normal, with highs in the upper 50s to mid-60s and overnight lows nearing freezing in some valleys. Winds will pick up near the coast Friday, but warmer weather is expected by Sunday, followed by a Santa Ana wind event early next week.

INVESTING 💰️ L.A. Care Funds Equity and Opportunity:

  • L.A. Care Health Plan is investing $2.7m into initiatives addressing housing, food, and economic insecurity, demonstrating its commitment to health equity beyond clinical care. Highlights include $1.3m to support CalFresh outreach through the California Association of Food Banks, $700,000 for its Advancing Economic Mobility Initiative, and $700,000 for its Equity & Resilience Initiative, which empowers nonprofits led by people of color. The funds will aid in providing access to nutritious food, workforce development, and systemic change initiatives, bolstering under-resourced communities across Los Angeles County.

COMMUNITY LINKS

🚰 SANTA MONICA: Water recycling facility captures over fifty million gallons, wins national awards, via Santa Monica Mirror.

🛣️ SANTA MONICA: City of Santa Monica wins award for safe streets project, via Santa Monica Lookout.

🎨 WEST HOLLYWOOD: Rain WeHo considers 2028 Olympics art, via Beverly Press/Park Labrea News.

DEVELOPMENT

GLENDALE 🏡 New Vision on Central - Glendale’s Future Urban Living Space:

  • A new eight-story, multifamily development could soon rise on N. Central Avenue, the former site of Conrad’s Restaurant near the SR-134 freeway, pending approval by the Glendale City Council. Proposed by VK Group and designed by Urban Design Specialists, the project includes 105 studio to three-bedroom units above a three-level parking garage with 215 spaces. Embracing a modern aesthetic, the design features stone veneer, fiber cement, and painted stucco, with amenities like a gym, recreation room, and a public open space along Central Avenue. Glendale city staff have recommended preliminary design approval, supporting the project’s focus on human-scaled, high-quality materials that engage the street-facing facades.

ARTS DISTRICT 🏢 Hines Gets Green Light for Massive Office Complex:

  • The Los Angeles City Planning Commission has unanimously approved Hines' ambitious plan for a large office complex on E. Violet Street, adjacent to the historic Ford Factory complex now housing Warner Music Group. Set to rise thirteen stories with 435,000 square feet of office space, 15,499 square feet of ground-floor commercial area, and a seven-story parking structure, the design by Rios will feature a striking glass, steel, and brick veneer facade. The project includes 74,000 square feet of open spaces, connecting the Ford Factory to the neighborhood and incorporating terrace decks on upper floors. While an appeal from CREED LA, citing zoning and environmental concerns, was denied, construction could begin soon, aiming for a three-year timeline. The project, joining other Arts District developments, underscores the shifting dynamics of L.A.'s office market, where some developers have reconsidered office space amid market challenges.

PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY 🏡 Legado Redondo Revitalizes Redondo Beach:

  • Legado Redondo, a new mixed-use development at Pacific Coast Highway and Palos Verdes Boulevard, is set to reshape the Redondo Beach landscape with 115 residential units above 22,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space. The project also includes a renovated Palos Verdes Inn, which will reopen as a 110-room hotel featuring a rooftop pool deck. While some local officials support the project’s potential for economic revitalization, there has been community concern about its impact on traffic and neighborhood dynamics​.

VENICE 🏡 New Mixed-Use Development Rising in Venice:

  • Wood framing is now going up for Wiseman Residential's latest mixed-use project in Venice, located at 1808-1816 S. Lincoln Boulevard. The five-story building will feature 50 apartments, ranging from studios to three-bedroom units, along with 4,734 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor. As part of the project, five units will be reserved for extremely low-income tenants through Transit Oriented Communities incentives. Designed by Reed Architectural Group, the development will include amenities such as a gym, rooftop deck, and a rear yard. The design features a stepped-down layout along the eastern side, offering terrace decks.

DEVELOPMENT LINKS

💎 BEVERLY HILLS: Beverly Hills revises ADU regulations, via Beverly Press/Park Labrea News.

BUSINESS

AMAZON 📦️ Amazon’s Temu Competitor, Haul, in Beta:

  • Amazon is introducing Amazon Haul, a new shopping experience designed to provide U.S. customers with ultra-affordable products across fashion, home, lifestyle, electronics, and more—all priced at $20 or less. Accessible in the Amazon Shopping app, Amazon Haul offers curated deals on items such as a three-piece razor set for $2.99, iPhone cases for $1.79, and winter gloves for $3.21. Customers can enjoy added savings with discounts on bulk orders, plus free delivery for purchases over $25 and hassle-free returns. Protected by Amazon’s A-to-z Guarantee, each product is screened to ensure quality and safety, making it a trustworthy source for budget-friendly shopping. 💌 

WAYMO 🏎️ Waymo Expands Autonomous Rides Across Los Angeles:

  • Waymo just took the next big step in Los Angeles by removing its waitlist, letting anyone with the Waymo One app hail a fully autonomous ride within the eighty-square-mile coverage area, including neighborhoods like Hollywood, Westwood, and Marina del Rey. Despite some limitations—no highway or LAX trips yet—Waymo’s latest expansion reflects its rising confidence, backed by a $5.6bn funding round led by Alphabet. The company’s rapid growth is evident, with over one million autonomous miles driven weekly, making it a unique alternative to Uber and Lyft for those seeking a tech-forward travel experience. While there’s competition on price and coverage, Waymo’s service still stands out for its customization options, allowing riders to personalize music and temperature settings, which CEO Tekedra Mawakana says has been warmly received by LA’s early adopters.

NETFLIX 🚀 Netflix’s Ad-Supported Surge:

  • Netflix's ad-supported tier has skyrocketed to 70m global users, a major leap from 40m in May and just 22m at the beginning of the year. This rapid growth is encouraging big marketers, especially as over half of new subscribers in ad-supported regions are opting for this tier. Netflix's ad ventures include NFL broadcasts this Christmas, with FanDuel and Verizon sponsoring segments, and international sponsorships such as Kia’s involvement with Squid Game in Korea. Expanding on tech and measurement, Netflix is leveraging tools like Nielsen in the U.S. for live NFL viewership and exploring other global measurement partnerships. Its Canadian operation now uses Netflix’s own ad-tech, a move toward global in-house ad solutions set to roll out through 2025.

JOHN MAYER 🎞️ John Mayer & McG Set to Buy Iconic Jim Henson Lot for $40m:

  • John Mayer and director McG have reached a deal to purchase the historic Jim Henson Company Lot in Hollywood for $40m, pending final approvals. This legendary five-acre property on North La Brea Avenue was originally founded in 1917 by Charlie Chaplin, who used its Tudor-style English village as the backdrop for classics like The Kid and The Gold Rush. The Henson family, who acquired the studio in 1999, recently decided to sell, planning to consolidate their operations under a new roof. Mayer and McG's plans for the iconic recording and film studio remain undisclosed, but their acquisition keeps this historic cultural landmark in creative hands.

META 👓️ Meta Lab Pop-Up Brings Ray-Ban Meta Glasses to West Hollywood:

  • Meta's first-ever retail pop-up, Meta Lab, has launched on Melrose Avenue, offering a full immersion into Ray-Ban Meta glasses and SoCal culture. Opened on November 8th with a ribbon-cutting ceremony by the West Hollywood Chamber of Commerce and Mayor John Erickson, the 8,000-square-foot space features interactive demos of Ray-Ban Meta glasses, highlighted as one of Oprah's Favorite Things of 2024. Visitors can explore unique installations like a mirror-and-LED photo op, local lowrider-inspired art, and even grab a limited-edition doughnut from Sidecar Doughnuts inspired by Estevan Oriol's iconic 'Blue Velvet' photo. Meta Lab will host community workshops on art, identity, and tech, adding a dynamic hub for engagement through December 31st.

BUSINESS LINKS

📺️ AMAZON: Women Amazon to shut down Freevee, integrate content into Prime Video, via KIRO7.

🛍️ BEVERLY HILLS: The Stylists shaping Beverly Hills, via Beverly Hills Courier.

🎢 SPOTIFY: Disneyland Spotify delivers a strong encore, gravity-defying stock in orbit, via The Wall Street Journal.

🎵 BEVERLY HILLS: Music agency Concord leases indoor-outdoor offices in Beverly Hills, via The Real Deal.

🎞️ AFM: Leading U.S. film companies inform IFTA they won’t return to Las Vegas for AFM in 2024 and will set up their own market + screenings in Los Angeles if need be; IFTA responds, via Deadline.

ENTERTAINMENT

BACK IN ACTION 🥷 Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz Are Back in Action:

  • Jamie Foxx and Cameron Diaz reunite in Back in Action, premiering on Netflix January 17th. The action-comedy follows Matt and Emily, a married couple and former CIA spies, pulled back into the world of espionage when their cover is blown. Directed by Seth Gordon (Horrible Bosses), the film marks Diaz's return to acting after nearly a decade and her third collaboration with Foxx. The star-studded cast includes Glenn Close, Kyle Chandler, and Andrew Scott.

FTX FILM 📉 Lena Dunham to Tackle FTX’s Rise + Fall in New Film Adaptation:

  • Lena Dunham has signed on to adapt Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon, Michael Lewis's bestselling account of FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried, for Apple Studios and A24. The project, now in early development, will explore Bankman-Fried's meteoric rise in the crypto world, from FTX's 2019 launch and Super Bowl ads to endorsements from stars like Tom Brady and Stephen Curry. Bankman-Fried, currently appealing a 25-year prison sentence for fraud and money laundering, is the latest subject in Lewis's lineup of real-life narratives, with adaptations like The Big Short and Moneyball preceding this.

DENZEL WASHINGTON 🐈‍⬛ Denzel Hints at Joining the Next Black Panther:

  • Chelsea Handler is back to host the 30th annual Critics Choice Awards, marking her third consecutive year emceeing the event. The show will air live on E! from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica January 12th, with streaming available on Peacock starting January 13th. The Critics Choice Association promises this milestone event will be their biggest yet, thanks to Handler's signature wit. TV nominations drop December 5th, with film nominees following on December 12th, all leading up to the star-studded January ceremony.

THE AMATEUR 🔫 Rami Malek Goes Rogue in The Amateur:

  • Rami Malek stars as a CIA decoder turned vigilante in The Amateur, hitting theaters April 11th. Based on the 1981 novel, the film follows Charlie Heller (Malek), whose quiet life unravels after his wife is killed in a London terrorist attack. When the CIA refuses to act, Charlie uses his expertise to track down the perpetrators, outsmarting both enemies and former colleagues. Directed by James Hawes, the thriller blends cerebral tension with action, featuring Rachel Brosnahan, Jon Bernthal, Laurence Fishburne, and Caitríona Balfe in supporting roles. A must-see for fans of modern espionage dramas.

ENTERTAINMENT LINKS

📺️ WEDNESDAY: Lady Gaga joins Wednesday Season 2 in undisclosed role with Jenna Ortega, via Entertainment Weekly.

🔤 WORDLE: Play today’s Wordle, via New York Times.

SPORTS

UCLA 🏈 Bruins vs. Huskies: A Big Ten Clash to Watch:

  • The UCLA Bruins (4-5) head to Seattle to face the Washington Huskies (5-5) tonight, marking a pivotal Big Ten matchup. While the Huskies aim to recover from a tough loss to No. 4 Penn State, the Bruins enter with momentum, having secured three consecutive wins, including a narrow victory over Iowa. UCLA’s strong run defense, led by junior linebacker Carson Schwesinger, will be tested against Washington’s senior quarterback Will Rogers and standout running back Jonah Coleman. Kickoff is set for 6:00pm at Husky Stadium, with Washington favored by 4 points. Fans in LA can catch the action on FuboTV.

USC 🏈 Nebraska at USC: High Stakes at the Coliseum:

  • The USC Trojans (4-5) face off against the Nebraska Cornhuskers (5-4) this Saturday in a matchup brimming with urgency for both teams. Held at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, this game pits a struggling USC squad, with four narrow losses in five games, against a Nebraska team desperate to halt a three-game losing streak. The Trojans, led by new quarterback Jayden Maiava, hope to capitalize on Nebraska's revamped but inconsistent offense under a fresh coordinator. Kickoff is at 1:00pm, with USC favored by 7.5 points. Los Angeles fans can catch the action live on FOX or soak in the energy at the historic Coliseum.

RAMS 🐏 Rams Seek Redemption in Foxborough: Can They Bounce Back?

  • The Los Angeles Rams (5-4) are on the road this Sunday, heading to Gillette Stadium for a critical matchup with the New England Patriots (3-6) in Week 11. After a tough 23-15 loss to the Dolphins, the Rams look to recover, with a strong performance needed from Matthew Stafford and a red zone offense that failed to find the end zone last week. The Patriots, fresh off a win over the Bears, are riding a 2-1 streak and will rely on their defense, which dominated with nine sacks in their last game. Tune in on FOX for all the action at 10:00am LA local.

CHARGERS ⚡️ Bengals vs. Chargers - A Crucial Clas at SoFi:

  • As Week 11 rolls in, the Cincinnati Bengals (4-6) and Los Angeles Chargers (5-5) face off in a game that could shape their seasons. Once hailed as Super Bowl contenders, the Bengals are now on the brink of playoff contention, needing a win to stay in the hunt. Meanwhile, the Chargers have surprised many with a revamped defense under new coach Jim Harbaugh, holding teams to the fewest points in the league. With both teams in need of a win, all eyes will be on Joe Burrow and Justin Herbert as they battle for dominance at SoFi Stadium this Sunday at 5:20pm on NBC/Peacock.

HAVE A GREAT WKND, LA!

🤙 Good luck on the raffle!
And have a wonderful, wonderful weekend,
CuratedLA Family.
We did it.

AND GO CLEMSON TIGERS, BEAT PITTSBURGH!

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