DECEMBER 20TH, 2024

FRIDAY’S VIBES

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SUPERMAN

TRAILER DROPPED

(IN ENT. SECTION BELOW)

GETTING SOCIAL 📸 CuratedLA is now on Bluesky:

• Good morning, and Happy Friday, CuratedLA Family! We are less than a week away from Christmas. I know that you’re excited to see your in-laws. CuratedLA will be off this Tuesday for Christmas Eve, but we will be back on Friday. And you can also follow CuratedLA on Bluesky (see below)!

• I also want to thank those that were able to donate to CuratedLA. We are $400 away from our January goal, and if you have the chance, I would greatly appreciate it if you donated. If you cannot do so, then please save that mulah and enjoy today’s good vibes, all below! Have a wonderful, wonderful, Christmas + Holiday, Los Angeles! Wyatt

ON THIS DAY ⏪️ Los Angeles History

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HOV LANES

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EATS

HEADLINES

KRISPY KREME X LODGE BREAD 🍩 A Sweet Hanukkah Collaboration:

• Krispy Kreme and Lodge Bread are joining forces to celebrate Hanukkah with limited-edition sufganiyot, blending Krispy Kreme’s signature doughnut base with Lodge Bread’s artisanal raspberry jam. Available by the half-dozen for $30, these festive treats can be found at Lodge Bread locations in Culver City, Woodland Hills, and Beverly Hills during Hanukkah, December 25th - January 2nd. Supplies are limited, with a two-box cap per customer, so early arrivals are key to enjoying this seasonal collaboration.

OPENINGS

NORTH HOLLYWOOD 🇮🇹 Mater Brings a Slice of Italy to North Hollywood:

• Mater, the new (and still hidden) Italian gem on Burbank Boulevard in North Hollywood. It is a perfect spot for date nights, self-care meals, or even gatherings. Mater offers Italian curations, rivaling dining in Italy. From house-made pasta to creative takes on classic dishes, every bite reflects care and quality.For starters, the bolognese melts in your mouth, the branzino impresses with delicate flavor, and the gnocchi fritti—a pumpkin and fig-glazed wonder—is a standout. Desserts like tiramisu are out of this world, and coffee enthusiasts rave about its excellence. Alessandro, one of the chef-creators, personally ensures each guest feels welcome. Mater’s still under the radar but not for long—make it your next stop before the buzz grows louder.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

STUDIO CITY 🪩 Experience the Future at Studio City’s Night on Earth:

• The visionary team behind Echo Park's acclaimed Thunderbolt has unveiled Night on Earth in Studio City, just south of Universal Studios Hollywood. This innovative venue features neon signage crafted from recycled plastic appliances, creating a futuristic Day-Glo ambiance. The cocktail menu offers creative twists on classics, such as the 'Disco Nap,' a blueberry espresso martini, and the 'Ay! Contact,' a Miami Vice-inspired concoction made with Sotol.

  • Website + Instagram

CHINATOWN 🍹 New Orleans Charm Lands in Chinatown:

• The Evangeline Swamp Room, a cozy fifty-seat cocktail lounge by the owners of Little Jewel in Chinatown, opened last Friday, after years of renovations. Inspired by the French Quarter’s iconic bars, the space blends Southern charm with local history, housed in a 144-year-old building adorned with Louisiana shutters and fleur-de-lis ceiling tiles. Expect classic cocktails like mint juleps and Sazeracs ($12–18), Cajun-inspired dishes, and even a slushie machine churning out Dodger blue daiquiris.

  • Website + Instagram

CULVER CITY 🐠 José Andrés Brings Mediterranean Mezze to Culver City:

• Zaytinya, the acclaimed Mediterranean restaurant by chef José Andrés, has arrived in Culver City, occupying the former Etta space at The Shay hotel. Known for its blend of Greek, Turkish, and Lebanese flavors, the menu highlights shareable mezze dishes like hummus, falafel, and wood-fired Turkish flatbreads alongside seafood and kebabs. With a David Rockwell-designed dining room and a wraparound patio, the space offers a bright, inviting atmosphere. As Los Angeles continues to embrace Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dining, Zaytinya's vegetable-forward approach and family-style options are poised to become a local favorite. Located on Washington Blvd, the restaurant is open daily from 4:00pm to 10:00pm. with lunch service coming soon.

  • Website + Menu + Instagram

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EVENTS

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

FIVE FUTURES

GUIDES

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ACTIVITIES

DISNEY ON ICE 🏰 Ongoing until January 5th:

• Disney On Ice presents Magic in the Stars has ice-skated its way into various parts of Southern California. Disney On Ice features over fifty beloved characters, cutting-edge skating, and dazzling effects. The all-new show includes the on-ice debuts of Raya from Raya and the Last Dragon, Asha from Wish, and the story of Frozen 2. Audiences will journey through iconic tales with Mickey, Moana, Mirabel, and more, while exploring themes of dreams and self-discovery. Performances will be held in Anaheim, Los Angeles, Ontario, and Long Beach. Tickets are available online with family-friendly pricing and optional pre-show character experiences for the following shows:

WEST HOLLYWOOD 🧑‍🎤 Billie Eilish Pop-Up, today - Sunday:

• Billie Eilish fans in Los Angeles are in for a treat as the HIT ME HARD AND SOFT: THE TOUR lands at the Kia Forum, paired with an exclusive pop-up shop at Complex LA. Running today - Sunday, the event offers limited-edition merch like Mitchell & Ness hats, GAS Trading Cards, vinyls, and a special Billie Eilish Complex magazine. Perfectly timed for the holidays and her birthday, this pop-up promises interactive experiences and surprises, making it a must-visit for fans. Find it at 433 N Fairfax Ave, open 11:00am - 7:00pm.

LONG BEACH 🍺 Tonight at 7:00pm:

• Trademark Brewing in Long Beach is bringing festive fun with its Holiday Movie Night series. This Friday, catch Jingle All the Way, followed by Die Hard (yes, it's a Christmas movie!) on December 27th. Both screenings start at 7:00pm., offering a cozy atmosphere to enjoy holiday classics with a brew in hand. Don’t miss out—grab your spot for some seasonal cheer.

MELROSE 🌕️ Tomorrow & Tomorrow Night:

• Get into the festive spirit with the Groundlings' annual Holiday Show: Groundlings Roasting on an Open Fire. Featuring original sketches brimming with humor and holiday cheer, this seasonal favorite has its last shows, today and Saturday, one at 7:30pm and the other at 9:30pm on both days. Directed by Jordan Black, it’s a must-see comedy tradition. Secure your tickets now to keep your holidays merry and bright.

SYLMAR ❄️ Daily until Christmas Eve:

• Celebrate the holidays at Discovery Cube LA’s Holiday Village, a festive haven filled with seasonal charm and hands-on activities for all ages. From immersive light displays to crafting ornaments, the Village offers winter fun with a science twist. Highlights include writing letters to Santa, building with "ice" blocks in an inflatable igloo, and snapping photos in Santa’s sleigh. Kids under five can enjoy the Reindeer Corral, and Santa himself will visit daily until he makes his trips around the world on Christmas Eve.

HOLLYWOOD 🎅 Tonight until Late/Early Morning:

• Hollywood transforms into a festive playground tonight, with the debut of Cahuenga Santa-Con. From 8:00pm until the early hours, bar-hop across five venues, including The Palm & The Pine and Tramp Stamp Granny’s, enjoying drink specials and entertainment. Dress in your holiday best—no cover required, just your merriest vibes.

HOLLYWOOD  ☃️ Tonight and Tomorrow:

• Step into a holiday wonderland at The Hollywood Roosevelt today and tomorrow. Begin with a festive reception in the lobby from 6:00pm featuring mulled wine, carolers, and a Santa sighting. Then savor a classic Christmas dinner menu in the ballroom, followed by a two-hour performance of Let It Swing! with timeless holiday music and ballroom dancing from 8:30pm. Dress in black-tie holiday style for this unforgettable evening. Valet and self-parking options available; complimentary red-carpet photos included.

WILLOW SPRINGS PARK 🌕️ Tomorrow from 9:30am - 1:30pm:

• Neighbor-to-Neighbor invites you to welcome longer days and rejuvenate with nature at Longview Point in Willow Springs Park tomorrow from 9:30am to 1:30pm. This community event features a guided Willow Walk and sound bath meditation (now full), plus open activities including a solstice viewing at noon and a lively ukulele performance with crafts from 12:15pm to 1:30pm. No registration is needed for the afternoon festivities—bring something comfortable to sit on and connect with nature and neighbors at 2745 Orange Avenue, Long Beach.

WEST HOLLYWOOD 🕯️ Tomorrow, starting at 6:30pm:

• Celebrate the longest night of the year with a transformative sound healing experience led by award-winning artist Roxie Sound Healing at West Hollywood’s Kimpton La Peer Hotel. Tomorrow, immerse yourself in seventy minutes of relaxation through sound, storytelling, and Persian Winter Solstice traditions, including poetry by Hafez and a symbolic display of nuts and pomegranates. Arrive early for tea from 4:30pm and unwind in a serene atmosphere designed by Gulla Jónsdóttir. Extend the evening with a Persian-inspired pomegranate dish at Ladyhawk by Top Chef Charbel Hayek. Valet and metered parking available.

NEWPORT BEACH 🛥️ Now until Sunday:

• The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade continues until Sunday, transforming the harbor into a dazzling display of festive lights and themed creativity. This year’s ‘Christmas Across the Decades’ theme invites spectators to marvel at illuminated yachts, sailboats, and dinghies gliding along Newport Harbor. The free event offers prime viewing from various waterfront spots or restaurants featuring dining deals, with boat charters available for a closer look. The parade begins and ends at Lido Isle, creating a magical celebration perfect for all ages. 💸 🎈 

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COMMUNITY

METRO 🚇️ Vermont BRT Plans Promise Faster, Smarter Transit:

• Metro is advancing plans for a bus rapid transit (BRT) line along Vermont Avenue, transforming a twelve-mile stretch from Los Feliz to Athens into an efficient transit corridor. Dedicated bus-only lanes, station upgrades, and improved amenities aim to boost ridership from 36,000 to 66,000 daily passengers, with travel times reduced by 24%. Temporary service enhancements are slated for 2025, with full implementation aligning with the 2028 Olympics. Looking ahead, a proposed rail line could amplify capacity but isn’t expected until 2067 under Measure M's timeline.

MINIMUM WAGE 💰️ New Year, New Wages: Minimum Pay Increases:

• California’s minimum wage rises statewide to $16.50 per hour starting January 1st, but some cities are stepping it up further. In Los Angeles County, West Hollywood leads with $19.65 per hour, reflecting a strong push for equitable pay. Nearby cities like Sunnyvale ($19) and Mountain View ($19.20) also highlight significant increases. While the statewide rise is modest, local adjustments underline the region’s cost-of-living realities, signaling a continued focus on wage equity across the Golden State.

BEVERLY HILLS 🫶 Beverly Hills Welcomes ‘The Heart Hand’ Sculpture:

• Celebrating love and unity, ‘The Heart Hand’ sculpture stands as a new emblem of Beverly Hills’ cultural and creative spirit. Commissioned by Jason Aftalion and brought to life by Dr. Simon Ourian, the work symbolizes inclusivity and the city's timeless charm. Its hand-heart gesture transcends language and cultural divides, embodying the welcoming nature of this global icon. Visitors can experience this artistic tribute to beauty and connection at Beverly Gardens Park, 9439 Santa Monica Blvd, and at Sunset Boulevard and N. Crescent Drive.

NEW LEADERSHIP 🎓️ LACCD Elects New Leadership:

• The Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD) Board of Trustees has elected Kelsey Iino as President, Sara Hernandez as Vice President, and Andra Hoffman as Second Vice President for 2025. Sworn in by local leaders including CA Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara, the new officers pledge to prioritize student needs, equity, and access across LACCD’s nine campuses. Outgoing President Nichelle Henderson was lauded for her impactful tenure, marked by advocacy for underserved communities and steering the district through leadership transitions. As LACCD moves forward, the Board remains committed to fostering inclusion, addressing urgent issues like student housing, and empowering the diverse communities it serves.

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DEVELOPMENT

EAST HOLLYWOOD 🏡 New Affordable Housing Development Proposed:

• A new affordable housing project has been proposed for 511 N. Hoover Street in East Hollywood, with plans for a six-story building featuring 145 units. The development aims to provide affordable housing options for low-income families, with studio, one-, and two-bedroom apartments above parking for 38 vehicles. The project will utilize density bonus incentives, allowing it to exceed zoning limits and include units for moderate-, low-, and very low-income households. The design features a central courtyard and a rooftop deck, marking a significant scale-up from an earlier forty-unit plan approved in 2021.

SANTA MONICA 🎡 New Infill Housing Project Proposed for Empty Lot:

• A new housing development is set to rise at 2901 W. Santa Monica Boulevard, where an eight-story building with 129 apartments is planned for construction. The project will feature a mix of studio, one-, and two-bedroom units, alongside a 129-car garage. Thirteen of the apartments will be designated as affordable housing. Initially conceived as a larger twelve-story project, the development evolved after its original developer faced financial challenges.

SANTA MONICA 🎒 Affordable Housing Rises in Florence:

• Roosevelt Elementary School in Santa Monica is embarking on a transformative journey that honors its historical roots while embracing contemporary educational needs. The approved campus plan includes the construction of a new auditorium, expanded Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten spaces, a modern library, and a Maker Space & Teaming Area. This initiative respects the school's historical significance, notably its role in the Santa Monica Plan following the 1933 Long Beach Earthquake, which set national precedents for functional teaching spaces and child-centered buildings. Collaborating with the Santa Monica Conservancy, the plan aims to preserve key historical elements, such as the South Court, which will be repurposed for outdoor learning spaces reminiscent of its original use in the 1930s and 1940s. Phase 1 of the project, funded by the recent passage of Measure QS, is slated to commence construction in June 2025, focusing on enhancing facilities for Kindergarten and Transitional Kindergarten students.

INGLEWOOD 🏥 Venice Family Clinic Receives $1m Grant for Inglewood Loca:

• Venice Family Clinic has secured a $1m grant from the Everychild Foundation to finalize renovations for its new Inglewood Crenshaw Children and Family Center. This 16,037-square-foot facility will serve approximately four thousand people annually, offering comprehensive care to families facing economic and healthcare challenges in one of Los Angeles' most under-resourced areas. The center will provide a range of services from prenatal and pediatric care to job training and mental health support.

BURBANK ✈️ New Dual-Branded Marriott Hotel Planned Near Bob Hope:

• A new dual-branded Marriott hotel is set to rise near Hollywood Burbank Airport at 2500 N. Hollywood Way. The proposed project will feature a seven-story building with 420 guest rooms split between an Aloft Hotel and a Residence Inn, catering to both short and long-term stays. It includes a four-story garage with valet-only parking, plus additional stalls at ground level. The design incorporates contemporary finishes like cement board siding, aluminum panels, and wood veneer, and plans for Thornton Avenue improvements, including a protected bikeway. Construction could begin by late 2025, aligning with the airport's $1.3bn terminal overhaul.

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BUSINESS

SANTA MONICA 💪 AI-Driven Gym Fred Fitness to Open in Santa Monica:

• Fred Fitness, an innovative gym blending AI and personalized workouts, will open in Santa Monica in January on 4th Street. Powered by EGYM's AI technology, the gym offers customized training plans that evolve with your progress, far surpassing traditional trainers. With state-of-the-art equipment from Matrix and EGYM Genius systems, members can track their fitness journey through the Fred Fitness app. Backed by Clever Fit and EGYM, which recently secured $200m in growth capital, Fred Fitness is set to revolutionize the fitness experience in the U.S., with plans for rapid expansion.

HOLLYWOOD 🎷 Blue Note Jazz Club Hits a High Note in Hollywood:

• Blue Note Jazz Club, the iconic New York jazz venue, is set to open a new location on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood in March. The Los Angeles venue will feature two performance spaces: a main showroom with a 200-person capacity and a secondary B Side' room accommodating one hundred guests. Additionally, it will offer a full-service kitchen and beverage menu, serving brunch and dinner throughout the week. In collab with LA Phil, Blue Note will also become the flagship partner of the Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival, rebranded as the Blue Note Jazz Festival. The inaugural event is scheduled for June 14th at the Hollywood Bowl, with the full lineup announcement expected on February 18th, and tickets going on sale in May.

LONG BEACH 🍺 Trademark Brewing Expands to Torrance at The Enclave:

• Long Beach's award-winning Trademark Brewing is opening a new taproom at the Enclave, a retail complex on the Los Angeles-Torrance border. This new space will showcase their celebrated beers, including GABF medalists ‘A La Playa’ Mexican lager and ‘Codebreaker’ West Coast IPA, alongside guest taps and wine. Co-owner Sterling Steffen envisions collaborations with neighboring brands like HiroNori, further embedding Trademark into the local community. The Enclave, reminiscent of Long Beach’s SteelCraft, features a dynamic mix of restaurants and retail spaces. Trademark’s Torrance location is set for a soft opening in early 2025 at 970-990 W. 190th St.

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ENTERTAINMENT

SUPERMAN 💪 Superman Returns: A New Era for DC:

• James Gunn’s highly anticipated Superman teaser gives fans a glimpse of a new chapter for the iconic hero, as played by David Corenswet. The teaser highlights the film’s fresh approach, showcasing Superman in a cinematic universe shared with fellow DC heroes. Set to launch a new era under Gunn and Peter Safran, this Superman emphasizes the hero's inherent goodness, blending classic elements with new interpretations. Alongside familiar characters like Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) and Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), the film introduces new superheroes, including Krypto the Superdog and Mister Terrific. Gunn’s vision embraces Superman’s moral core, offering a hopeful message amidst today’s turbulent world. With a mix of original and iconic music, the film sets the stage for a redefined DC Universe. Superman opens July 11th.

HBO 📺️ Dune Prophecy Secures a Second Season on HBO:

• HBO’s Dune: Prophecy has been renewed for a second season, announced showrunner Alison Schapker ahead of Sunday’s season finale. The series, inspired by Sisterhood of Dune by Brian Herbert and Kevin J. Anderson, has captivated audiences, with its November 17th premiere drawing 15m viewers on Max. Set ten thousand years before Denis Villeneuve's Dune films, the show follows two Harkonnen sisters as they shape the origins of the Bene Gesserit. With an ensemble cast including Emily Watson and Olivia Williams, the series continues to expand the Dune universe, blending epic storytelling with rich world-building.

SNL 🎤 Martin Short’s Hilarious Return to SNL - Meltdown and All:

• Martin Short is back at Studio 8H for this weekend's Saturday Night Live episode, and he's not holding back. In a newly released promo, the actor and comedian threw a hilarious tantrum over the show's script and the decorations at Rockefeller Plaza. Joined by musical guest Hozier and cast member Kenan Thompson, Short humorously demands better writing, calling the script ‘drivel,’ and critiques the set design—despite the holiday decorations already in place. Short, who first appeared on SNL in 1984, is known for his comedic antics and character revivals, including the beloved Ed Grimley. SNL celebrates its 50th anniversary this February, making Short's return even more fitting.

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SPORTS

CHARGERS ⚡️ Jim Harbaugh Guides Chargers to Victory, Playoff Push Continues:

• Jim Harbaugh's return to the NFL is proving successful, with his Los Angeles Chargers battling back to defeat the Denver Broncos 34-27. Despite trailing 21-10 at halftime, Harbaugh's strategic use of a rare fair catch free kick, executed by kicker Cameron Dicker, helped close the gap. The Chargers' offense and defense shifted gears in the second half, with Justin Herbert and Gus Edwards leading the charge, ultimately securing the win. Harbaugh, in his first season with the Chargers, has transformed a team with talent but inconsistencies into a playoff contender, now sitting at 9-6. The team is poised for a wild-card berth, thanks to Harbaugh’s expert coaching.

RAMS 🐏 Rams Gear Up for Pivotal Matchup Against Jets:

• The Week 14 Sunday Night Football matchup between the Chargers and Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium is shaping up to be a pivotal game for both teams. While the Chiefs, boasting an 11-1 record, have managed to win despite some unconvincing performances, the Chargers have only gotten stronger as the season progresses with an 8-4 record. With the Chargers riding a 5-1 ATS run and strong third-down defense, many are backing them as the potential upset pick of the week. Kansas City’s offense has struggled at times, making this matchup a critical test for both teams in the AFC West.

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HAVE A GREAT CHRISTMAS, LA!

🤙 Tense Christmas or not,
be your own Superman

AND GO TIGERS! BEAT TEXAS!

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