Emceed by Kevin Frazier of “Entertainment Tonight,” the kickoff party guest lineup included President of FIFA Gianni Infantino, Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Community Ambassadors Will Ferrell, Eva Longoria, Cobi Jones, and Mia Hamm, plus a special performance by Melissa Etheridge. 

“Tonight’s celebration marks the beginning of an extraordinary moment for Los Angeles,” said Kathryn Schloessman, CEO of the Los Angeles World Cup 2026 Host Committee. “As the world turns its attention to Los Angeles for the US Opening Match against Paraguay in just a few days at Los Angeles Stadium, our region is ready to welcome fans, showcase our diverse communities, and demonstrate why Los Angeles is one of the great sports and entertainment capitals of the world. From our official Fan Festival and fan zones taking place across the region, Angelenos and visitors alike will have countless opportunities to come together and be part of the excitement.”   

The post Official Kickoff to FIFA World Cup 2026 Takes Place at Coliseum appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

For more than a decade, the city has worked to preserve and recognize historic resources with the designation of Landmarks, awarding of Golden Shield Awards, and now the Historic Preservation Awards Program. The awards presented on May 27 included:

Restoration and Preservation Award

• Pendleton-Evans Residence

• Fine Arts Ahrya Theatre

Renovation and Rehabilitation Award

• 9595 Wilshire Boulevard

• 9231 Olympic Boulevard

• Givenchy – Anderton Court at 332 North Rodeo Drive

• TRM Services for the Hillcrest Shelter Rehabilitation Project at 900 Hillcrest Road

• Saban Theatre at 8440 Wilshire Boulevard

Historic Site Stewardship Award

• Friends of Robinson Gardens

Historic Awareness and Education Award

• Phillip Savenick (deceased)  

The post City Launches Historic Preservation Awards appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

The festival also celebrates artists who have shaped regional and international cultural landscapes.  This year’s line-up includes Maruja Limon, an all-female quintet on tour from Barcelona known for its vibrant music that blends flamenco, pop, and Latin rhythms; Elida Almeida, a Cape Verdean-born artist who infuses her Cabo Verdean beats with Latino energy; Latin Grammy-nominated, Afro-Peruvian jazz saxophonist and producer Anibal Seminario; Los Angeles-based Viver Brasil Dance Company, creators of bold Afro-Brazilian dance theater with an emphasis on ancestral practices, street styles, and live music; Shivam Arts Dance, who blend traditional Northern Indian dance with contemporary music and choreography; and Klezmer Juice, representing the Jewish diaspora by way of Argentina, who will bring his ebullient musicianship back to the Festival after a two-year hiatus.

Festival goers will be able to explore the Mayan calendar and learn soccer’s ancestral game P’ok Ta Pok with Casa Maya de la Cultura; experience a traditional coffee ceremony with Little Ethiopia’s Nikki Legasse; create a soccer-themed ‘zine with the Boyle Heights-based Las Fotos Project; and make maracas with the Neighborhood Music School, among other activities. Additionally, AYSO will host a youth soccer clinic celebrating Summer of Soccer 2026 and the international games. For additional information visit beverlyhills.org/csevents.  

The post Festival Beverly Hills Set for July 12 appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

The free outdoor concert series will continue every Thursday through Aug. 20 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with a 15-minute intermission. The season features a variety of family-friendly entertainment and includes: 

The 2026 summer line-up:

June 4:  David Gab (Rock ‘n Roll) Kick-off Concert

June 11:  The Smokin’ 60’s (60’s Hits)

June 18:  Blue Breeze Band (Motown, Soul, Rhythm and Blues)  Celebrating Juneteenth

June 25:  Rod Lightning & The Thunderbolts of Love (Classic Rock)  Celebrating Pride 

July 2:  Midnight Regret (Top 40) Celebrating Independence Day, Parks Make Life Better Month and a Community Picnic.  

July 9:  Susie Hansen Latin Band (Salsa, Cumbia, Latin Jazz)

July 16:  Tom Nolan Band (Rock & Soul)

July 23:  Joyce Partise (Brazilian Bossa Nova)

July 30:  Woodie and the Longboards (Beach Boys Tribute + Vintage Surf Hits)

Aug. 6:  Groovis Maximus (Funk, Rhythm & Blues, Jazz)

Aug. 13:  The Brat Pack (80’s Tribute)

Aug. 20:  The Tokens (60’s & 60’s Rock, Pop, Doo-Wop)

For more information about Concerts on Canon and the bands, visit beverlyhills.org/csevents or call 310-285-1000.  

The post Concerts on Canon Summer Season Begins June 4 appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

 This year’s spring 2026 Beverly Hills Art Show winners are Best of Show, Lori Shocket; Best Display of Art, Elizabeth Freitas; Best New Artist, Daria Tessler; Gil Borgos Originality Award, Josh Bass and Mayor’s Purchase Award,  Fred Mertz. 

First Place winners in each category were Ceramics, Rowan Harrison; Drawing and Printmaking, Daria Tessler; Glass, Gustavo Lynleigh Love; Jewelry, Kathleen Lamberti; Mixed Media, Two Dimensional, Elliot Sylvester; Mixed Media, Three Dimensional, Elizabeth Freitas; Painting, Peyton Euriah; Photography & Digital Art, Carlos Vega; Sculpture, Joseph Osborne; and Watercolor, Richard Lewis.

The Beverly Hills Art Show is produced by the Community Services Department and is held every May and October. The fall 2026 Beverly Hills Art Show will be held on Oct. 17-18.  Artists are encouraged to apply for the October 2026 show.  The application will be available in July for a juried spot at www.beverlyhills.org/artshow.  For questions, call 310-285-1000.  

The post Winners Announced for the Spring 2026 Beverly Hills Art Show appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

The Adeena Sussman author event is in celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month. The city of Beverly Hills and its Community Services Department recognize Jewish American Heritage Month with celebratory events throughout the city all during the month of May.  Sussman is a renowned cookbook author, food writer and recipe developer specializing in Israeli cuisine. Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, she moved to Jerusalem in her 20s. Over two decades, her books are credited with bringing Israel’s food culture to a global audience.  

The post Beverly Hills Welcomes Adeena Sussman for Zariz Book Tour Stop appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Cloobeck, 64, a real estate magnate who dropped his bid for governor late last year and threw his support behind now-disgraced candidate Eric Swalwell, was arrested on May 12 and freed on $300,000 bond, according to Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department online inmate records.

Cloobeck was charged on April 28 with two felony counts of attempting to prevent or dissuade a witness/victim from attending a proceeding by force or threat, and one felony count of preventing or dissuading a witness or victim from attending or testifying at a trial or proceeding. He was also charged with a misdemeanor count of annoying telephone calls, allegedly directed at the attorney of one of the alleged victims in his fiancée’s case.

The victims named in the criminal complaint against Cloobeck are all alleged victims in his fiancée’s case. She is due back in court May 18 for a pretrial conference.

Cloobeck had been closely tied with Swalwell, Democratic U.S. representative from Northern California who suspended his gubernatorial campaign and resigned from Congress after a woman alleged he drugged her and sexually assaulted her in a West Hollywood hotel in 2018. Swalwell has denied her account and other allegations of sexual misconduct.

Swalwell had been a house guest of Cloobeck in Beverly Hills until the latest allegation surfaced, when Cloobeck withdrew his financial backing of the disgraced politician, according to published reports.  

The post Former Gubernatorial Hopeful Stephen Cloobeck Arrested appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

“Ensuring our community is prepared and informed about what to do during a disaster is imperative for saving lives,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Craig Corman. “Our incredible Fire Department already conducted a successful drill last November for our Trousdale residents, and we encourage our community in both the Trousdale and Hillside areas to participate in this important exercise and ask questions so they can feel confident that they’ll know what to do in case of an emergency.”

The test, sirens citywide will be activated at 1:30 p.m. Residents should gather their “go bag” emergency supplies and personal items and make their way to Will Rogers Park via designated evacuation routes. Police and Fire Department staff will be deployed throughout the area to direct traffic and assist the community. 

Ahead of the drill, there will also be a community meeting scheduled for April 27 at Greystone Mansion from 6-7 p.m. During the meeting, community members can learn more about preparation tips and the drill itself. Detailed information about the evacuation drill, including evacuation routes and recommenced emergency supplies can be found on the city’s website at beverlyhills.org/evacdrill. 

The post Fire Department to Hold Drill for Residents Near Franklin Canyon appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Competing against top teams from across the region, MorTorq was selected to join an alliance with Team 687 (California Academy of Mathematics & Science) and Team 2073 (Pleasant Grove High School).

“This result reflects the work our students have put in all season,” said Robotics Teacher/Coach John Castle. “From one competition to the next, they continue to grow, collaborate, and represent Beverly Hills High School with focus and determination.”

The FIRST Robotics Competition challenges students to design, build, and compete with industrial-sized robots in a fast-paced, team-based environment that emphasizes engineering, problem-solving, and collaboration. 

The post BHHS MorTorq Robotics Team Takes Second Place in Competition appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

The honorees are Afsaneh Tabibian (Instructional Assistant, BHHS); Felipe Gomez (Maintenance and Operations); Karen Garland (Program Specialist, HM/BVMS); Candace Hemphill (3rd Grade, ER); Ellen Kwon (4th Grade, HM);Kunhee (David) Lee (History & AVID, BHHS); Kari Marlowe (Program Specialist, ER/BHHS);Celeste McDonald (English, BHHS);

Fred Pinto (Visual and Performing Arts, BVMS); Laura Rogers (Special Education, BVMS) and Vivian Minor (Administrative Assistant, BVMS).

“The Beverly Hills Education Foundation is absolutely thrilled to be hosting BHEF HONORS this year, which combines the opportunity to celebrate the generosity of our BHEF donors and the creativity of our Innovative Teacher Grant award winners, along with publicly honoring the remarkable educators, administrators and staff members who have earned Apple Awards in 2026. After a decade-long hiatus, we are excited to be bringing this beloved tradition back to our community. This event is a testament to the spirit of excellence that defines our district, and we’re proud to shine a spotlight on the people who make that excellence possible,” said Tina Wiener, BHEF President.

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available through BHEF.org   

The post BHUSD Announces 2026 Apple Award Honorees as BHEF Brings Back Apple Awards Celebration appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

During the upcoming May 2 Evacuation Drill, residents who live near Franklin Canyon north of Sunset Boulevard will be asked to evacuate. Regardless of the designated drill area, all city residents are still encouraged to participate at this time to test their own emergency preparedness plans.

During the test, sirens citywide will be activated which may not be audible to everyone. Residents, whether they hear the sirens or not, should gather their emergency supplies and personal items and make their way to their designated evacuation route. Police and Fire Department staff will be deployed throughout the area to direct traffic and assist residents.

“Beverly Hills is committed to leading by example. Our top priority is the safety and protection of our residents, and that means being proactive, not reactive,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Sharona Nazarian. “Our first evacuation drill for the residents of the Trousdale area last November was a tremendous success. In the wake of recent fires in nearby cities, our commitment is clear: we must be ready for any natural disaster. I encourage all our residents to participate. When we work together, we build a stronger, safer, and more resilient community.”

When available, detailed information on the May 2 Evacuation Drill, including evacuation routes and recommenced emergency supplies can be found on the city’s website at beverlyhills.org/evacdrill.  

The post Fire Department to Hold Community Meeting Ahead of Second Evacuation Drill in May appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Harris currently oversees the Community Services Department which includes the Administrative Support, Library, Arts & Culture, and Recreation & Parks divisions. 

“I am very pleased to welcome Stephanie to the role of Assistant City Manager,” said Gohlich.  “During her 12 years with Beverly Hills, Stephanie has elevated our programs, built collaborative relationships, and demonstrated versatility and sound leadership. I look forward to her partnership in the years ahead.”

As ACM, Harris will assist in the daily management of city operations, provide oversight of select departments and work closely with the City Council.

“I am thankful to Ryan for the privilege of serving as the next Assistant City Manager,” said Harris. “I am proud to work with dedicated and talented colleagues and look forward to supporting the City Council and Ryan while serving this outstanding community in the years ahead.”

Harris joined the city in 2014 as a Management Analyst in the Community Services Department, later promoting to Senior Management Analyst and Community Services Manager before joining the City Manager’s Office in 2022 as Community Outreach Manager.  She later returned to Community Services as Interim Director in 2023 and was later named permanent Director.  Prior to joining Beverly Hills, Harris worked for the City of Rosemead’s Parks & Recreation Department for 11 years.

She earned her Bachelor’s Degree from California State University, Los Angeles and her Master’s in Public Administration from California State University, Northridge.  

The post Stephanie Harris Named New Assistant City Manager appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

“I’m thrilled that Adrine will be taking on this critical role in our department,” said Community Services Director Stephanie Harris. “During her time in Beverly Hills, she has built trust across the department and with our city partners. I know her contributions will continue to benefit the Beverly Hills community for years to come.”

Ovasapyan has been with the city of Beverly Hills since 2019 when she joined the Community Services Department’s Arts and Culture Division as a Recreation Supervisor.  In 2023, she was promoted to Recreation Services Manager where she currently manages the Youth Recreation team, including tots, youth, and teen programming.  Ovasapyan also serves as the staff liaison to the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) with Beverly Hills Unified School District, local youth sports organizations, and the Recreation and Parks Commission.

Prior to joining the city of Beverly Hills, she worked for the city of Burbank in the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department for more than 15 years. Ovasapyan will assume her new role on March 21, 2026 following the promotion of current Deputy Director Chris Paulson to Assistant Director. 

The post Ovasapyan Named New Deputy Director of Community Services appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

This crime is particularly devastating because victims, expecting a large withdrawal for legitimate tax purposes, often do not scrutinize their bank statements when the transaction occurs. Victims often do not discover the crime until several months later, when they receive notice from the IRS that their tax payment was never received. By that time, the altered check has already cleared, the funds have been withdrawn in cash, and the suspect account has been closed. Due to delays in discovery, bank surveillance footage and other investigative leads are often no longer available, making the prosecution of these crimes unlikely. It is vital to understand that once these funds are withdrawn, the loss is usually permanent. If you fall victim to this scam, law enforcement and financial institutions are typically unable to recover the stolen funds.

Therefore, prevention is critical. BHPD strongly encourages residents and businesses to submit IRS tax payments electronically whenever possible by visiting the official IRS website at irs.gov. Electronic payment is the most secure way to ensure tax payments are received by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

If a physical check must be mailed, residents should regularly review their bank statements and examine the deposited check image in their banking portal to confirm it was processed by the intended recipient, the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Reviewing the cleared check image in a timely manner may be the only opportunity to detect suspicious activity before funds are withdrawn.

BHPD urges residents and businesses to take immediate precautions and report any suspected mail theft or check fraud.  Police reports can be filed with BHPD at the station or by calling the non-emergency line at 310-550-4951 to request an officer to respond to you. For concerns related to mail theft within the postal system, reports may also be submitted to the USPS Office of Inspector General at hotlineform.uspsoig.gov. 

The post BHPD Warns of Check Scam Ahead of Tax Season appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Schools are selected for the California Distinguished Schools Program based on performance indicators from the California School Dashboard, including academic achievement, student progress, school climate indicators, and high participation in statewide assessments. To qualify, schools must meet rigorous statewide accountability standards, including at least 95 percent participation in state assessments and strong indicators in areas such as student achievement, attendance, and school climate.

The California Department of Education will formally recognize BVMS at the California School Recognition Program Awards Ceremony on April 24 in Anaheim.  

The post Beverly Vista Named a 2026 California Distinguished School appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

There is no specific threat against the event or Los Angeles, but federal officials have issued warnings about the transmission of a sequence of numbers in Farsi, the language spoken in Iran, that could be a signal to operatives, according to published reports. 

Reports also emerged this week that the FBI recently warned police departments in California that Iran could retaliate for the American attacks by launching drones at the West Coast.

A source with knowledge of the memo said the warning was issued based on intelligence received by the U.S. Coast Guard, but that it has not been deemed credible “at this time,” the Los Angeles Times reported.

Gov. Gavin Newsom said on March 11 at a news conference that he’s aware of the apparent threat of Iranian drone strikes on California. He said when the war started, he activated the state emergency operations center.

In a March 12 statement to the Courier, Beverly Hills Police Department Chief Mark G. Stainbrook said, “The Beverly Hills Police Department is closely monitoring developments nationally and internationally and remains in constant communication with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners. We will use every available resource and partnership to protect our community. Anyone who attempts to carry out a crime in Beverly Hills will be swiftly identified, apprehended, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”

This week, the  Los Angeles Police Department also indicated that it is monitoring all developments.

“We want to reassure every Angeleno that we continue to coordinate with all of our federal, state, and local partners for intelligence and information sharing during the ongoing Middle East conflict,” the LAPD told City News Service. 

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department said it also remains on heightened alert as authorities monitor developments related to the conflict in the Middle East.

The department said public safety remains its top priority and officials are watching for a range of potential threats, including lone-actor attacks, sleeper cells and cyber-related risks.

“Out of an abundance of caution, and in recognition of current religious observances, the department has continued increased patrols around places of worship, cultural institutions, and other prominent locations throughout the county,” the department said.

At the Academy Awards, enhanced security measures will include vehicle screenings, the deployment of bomb-sniffing dogs, pre-deployed SWAT teams, undercover local officers and federal agents and snipers on rooftops.

A one-mile security perimeter will be in place around the theater.

“The FBI routinely works with our local law enforcement partners responsible for security at special events in and around Los Angeles, including the Academy Awards, in order to share intelligence and provide resources where needed,” Laura Eimiller, spokeswoman at the bureau’s Los Angeles field office, told City News Service on March 11. 

City News Service  

The post Southland Security Enhanced Due to Middle East War appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

 Davidson is well known in the Los Angeles performing arts community from her prior role as president and CEO of the Los Angeles Master Chorale at The Music Center from 2015 to 2023. During her tenue, she introduced an international touring model, produced major recordings, and guided the Chorale through the pandemic, securing over $2 million in federal and local support. Davidson also increased contributed revenue by 48% in four years, led a successful strategic planning process, negotiated key labor agreements and advanced a comprehensive rebranding that repositioned the organization.

 Immediately prior to joining The Wallis, Davidson was Executive Director of the National Symphony Orchestra at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C., from 2023 until the present. Under her leadership, the NSO returned to international touring, released several acclaimed recordings and expanded innovative community and educational initiatives. Davidson spearheaded an endowment campaign, securing $25 million in gifts and pledges, and delivered a substantial increase in classical subscription sales while overseeing programming.

 “The arts are where a community sees itself, and where it imagines what’s possible next. I’m honored to join the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Arts at this pivotal moment. Together, we will build on its strong artistic foundation, attract world-class talent, and ensure that The Wallis remains a premier destination for exceptional and inspiring work. I’m excited to partner with our artists, audiences, and supporters to propel The Wallis into its next era as a national leader in bold creativity and big ideas,” said Davidson.

 Daphna Nazarian, the chair of The Wallis Board of Directors, noted, “We are thrilled to welcome Jean Davidson as the new Executive Director and CEO of the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. She brings exceptional vision, strategic insight and a distinguished record of leadership that will elevate our organization and strengthen our community.”

Nazarian continued, “As a dynamic and accomplished leader, she offers a powerful and timely perspective aligned with our mission to uplift and inspire through the arts. The Wallis stands as a vital, cultural anchor where creativity fosters connection and understanding, and I am confident in her upcoming stewardship to guide us into our next chapter. Together we embrace a forward vision grounded in stability and excellence.”

 Davidson succeeds Robert van Leer, who departed to assume his new position as the Performing Arts Program Director of the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. Christine Bernardi Weil is the interim managing director and Coy Middlebrook is acting chief programming officer of The Wallis.  

The post Davidson Named Executive Director and CEO of The Wallis appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

On November 23, 2024, four male suspects dressed in black clothing and face coverings committed the armed robbery outside a retail store within the 400 block of N. Rodeo Drive.

Two victims were violently assaulted during the incident. A male victim was struck in the back of the head with a firearm, and a female victim was thrown to the ground and repeatedly kicked. The suspects stole handbags, U.S. currency, and an engagement ring from the victims before fleeing the scene.

The four suspects then fled in a white rental vehicle driven by an additional suspect.

An investigation by the BHPD identified the five suspects as residents of Oakland, and warrants were obtained for their arrest. The suspects were arrested and transported to Beverly Hills. In custody and currently awaiting trial are: 

Kingikirah Stevenson, age 31, arrested for PC 211, robbery and PC 182, conspiracy. 

D’Angelo Tedla, age 22; Kingelijah Stevenson, age 18; Wendel Stevenson, age 18 and Jaeyden Duncan, age 18, were arrested for PC 211, PC 182 and PC 245, assault with a deadly weapon.

“This case reflects the Beverly Hills Police Department’s unwavering commitment to public safety and to holding violent offenders accountable, regardless of where they attempt to flee,” said Mark Stainbrook, Chief of Police.   

The post BHPD Arrests Rodeo Drive Robbers appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Clinton released the following statement with her announcement.

“I know what it takes for someone to succeed as a legislator: it requires a deep knowledge of policy, a passion for collaboration, and a sincere commitment to serving their constituents. I’m proud to endorse Brian Goldsmith for the California State Senate because he offers a rare combination of skills, relationships, and experience. 

I’ve known Brian since he worked on my 2000 Senate race, and since then, he has made a positive impact as a journalist, entrepreneur, and adviser to Democrats around the country. Brian will be an extraordinary State Senator, and I am excited to see the difference he will make for California.”

Goldsmith, who delayed the start of college to work on Clinton’s 2000 U.S. Senate campaign, expressed his appreciation for her support:

“I am incredibly honored to have earned the endorsement of one of my heroes, Hillary Rodham Clinton. Secretary Clinton has broken barriers her entire career and served our country with distinction for decades. As first lady, she fought to pass the Children’s Health Insurance Program—which to this day covers more than 7 million kids nationwide. As a senator, she brought Democrats and Republicans together to pass important legislation and helped to rebuild New York after 9/11. As secretary of state, she built alliances and negotiated ceasefires. 

And of course, she won millions more votes than Donald Trump in 2016—and our country, and California, would have been far better off had she won the election. I am truly humbled to have her support.”  

The post Former U.S. Secretary of State and U.S. Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton Endorses Goldsmith appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

In a statement, Corman said, “As a Councilmember and Vice Mayor, I’ve given a lot of thought to who would best represent our city in Sacramento. I’m pleased to endorse Brian Goldsmith, because he has a keen understanding of the issues we’re facing and the ability to build bridges between different groups to get things done for our community and the state.

I’m glad to see someone with Brian’s character and qualifications step up and run, and I look forward to working with him as we meet the challenges and opportunities ahead for Beverly Hills.”

Mirisch also released a statement announcing his support.

“I am certain that Brian will be an excellent member of the State Senate representing our community. A Beverly Hills resident, Brian understands the challenges and needs of this city, and I am particularly impressed with the leadership role he has played in combating antisemitism in California and around the country, a cause near and dear to my heart. Brian leads with intelligence and passion, and I am proud to endorse him and look forward to working closely with him in the future.”

Senate District 24 includes the cities of Agoura Hills, Beverly Hills, Calabasas, El Segundo, Gardena, Hermosa Beach, Hidden Hills, Lomita, Malibu, Manhattan Beach, Palos Verdes Estates, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Rolling Hills, Rolling Hills Estates, Santa Monica, Torrance, West Hollywood, and Westlake Village; the Los Angeles neighborhoods of Bel Air, Beverly Grove, Brentwood, Fairfax, Holmby Hills, Hollywood, Hollywood Hills, Little Holmby, Mid City West, Pacific Palisades, Playa del Rey, Sunset Hills, Venice, Westwood, and Westwood Village; and the unincorporated Los Angeles County communities of the Santa Monica Mountains and Marina Del Rey

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“This tour reflects the heart of what makes Beverly Hills Unified special,” said Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss. “Our high school students are inspiring the next generation, building connections across campuses, and showing younger learners what is possible when creativity and opportunity come together.”

The BHHS Dance Company will take the stage in its home venue, the K.L. Peters Auditorium at Beverly Hills High School beginning Jan. 28, marking the return of dance performances to the historic space. 

The post BHHS Dance Company Tours District Schools appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

In the days following the incident, BHUSD mobilized facilities and safety teams to conduct a thorough inspection of the entire El Rodeo Elementary School campus. This included:

• A comprehensive assessment of all classrooms and learning spaces

• Air quality testing to confirm a healthy environment post-incident

• Electrical inspections confirming power to all instructional areas

• Installation of temporary generators to ensure consistent and reliable power

• Continued coordination with Southern California Edison and the Beverly Hills Fire Department

“We are grateful for the swift response of our city’s first responders and proud of how quickly our teams worked to ensure the safety and readiness of the campus,” said Dr. Alex Cherniss, BHUSD Superintendent. “All systems are operational, and El Rodeo Elementary School is fully prepared to welcome students back.” 

The post Small Fire at El Rodeo Contained Quickly appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Residential streets surrounding the venue will be posted with no-parking signs. For more information on the complete list of closures, please visit beverlyhills.org/goldenglobes.

STREET CLOSURES

North Santa Monica Blvd.

• Westbound Full Lane Closures: Complete lane closures, from Wilshire Boulevard to Century Park East, from 9 p.m. on Jan. 9 until 6 a.m. on Jan. 12. 

• Eastbound Full Lane Closures: Complete lane closures, from Century Park East to

Wilshire Boulevard from 2 p.m. on Jan. 10 until 6 a.m. on Jan. 12.  

Alternate Routes: South Santa Monica Boulevard to remain open in both directions.

Wilshire Boulevard

Eastbound/Westbound Lane Reduction: Lane reductions take place at 6 a.m. on Jan. 2 until 9 p.m. on Jan. 14; Eastbound/Westbound Full Closure: All of Wilshire Boulevard between Comstock Ave. and North Santa Monica Boulevard will be closed from 10 p.m. on Jan. 10 until 6 a.m. Jan. 12; Eastbound Lanes of Wilshire Boulevard: Overnight eastbound closure from Comstock to North Santa Monica Boulevard from 10 p.m. on Jan. 1 until 6 a.m. on Jan. 2. This same closure will occur again for the same duration Jan. 12 through Jan. 13. 

Whittier Drive, Carmelita Ave., Elevado Ave. and Lomitas Ave.; Trenton Drive and adjacent alleys: Select streets will have limited closures with local access only to residents beginning at 10 p.m. on Jan. 10 until 6 a.m. on Jan. 12.

Parking Restrictions:

Parking will be completely restricted (no exceptions) from 6 a.m. Jan. 11, until 6 a.m. Jan. 12:

Whittier Drive: Wilshire Boulevard to Elevado Ave; Carmelita Ave: Wilshire Boulevard to Walden Drive; Elevado Ave: Wilshire Boulevard to Walden Drive; Trenton Dr: Whittier Drive to Wilshire Boulevard; Walden Drive: Santa Monica Boulevard to Elevado Ave.; Lomitas Ave: Wilshire Boulevard to Walden Drive.

The Golden Globes Hotline will be active on Jan. 11 from 2-8 p.m. at 310-550-4680. 

The post Road Closures Planned for Golden Globe Awards appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

“I am very pleased to welcome Maribel to the City Clerk’s Office,” said Beverly Hills City Clerk Huma Ahmed.  “In her new role, she will lead the development and implementation of a new Citywide Records Management program along with providing support in City Clerk operations. I am confident her impressive experience in public records processing will be of tremendous benefit to our office and the community.”

Mena most recently served as an Associate Director with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the Privacy, Governmental, Liaison and Disclosure (PGLD) division, where she led national Disclosure and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) programs—the federal counterpart to the California Public Records Act (CPRA). She oversaw a nationwide team responsible for managing the IRS’s official FOIA records program and portal. Her experience also includes transitioning paper-based and electronic archives to fully automated workflows. 

She assumed her new role on Dec. 15. 

The post Mena Assumes Role as Assistant City Clerk appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Mayor Sharona Nazarian announced the winners of the Gingerbread House Contest, and Councilmember Mary Wells presented the gift baskets to the winners. In the adult category, the first, second and third place winners were Alana Rodriguez, Roxanne Lechrivain

and Kira Kosove, respectively. In the youth category, the winners were Clifford Hughes, Emily Schlecter and Quinn Schiller.

The post Craft Fair and Gingerbread House Contest Draws Hundreds appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

“I am thrilled that Cindy will be our next City Planner,” said Michael Forbes, the City’s Community Development Director.  “She is deeply respected by her team as a strong technical planner and leader. Her diverse experience and institutional knowledge will continue to be of great benefit to our community.”

Gordon joined the city of Beverly Hills in 2011 as an Assistant Planner and has promoted through the years to Associate Planner, Senior Planner, Principal Planner, and Project Manager. 

She has two bachelor’s degrees, in Community & Regional Planning and Sociology, from Iowa State University, and a Master’s degree in City & Regional Planning from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Gordon is certified by the American Institute of Certified Planners.

She will assume her new role on Dec. 15.

The post Gordon Named Assistant Director of Community Development/City Planner appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

An outdoor Craft Village will feature craft-making stations. Additional activities include carolers, puppet shows, a tree maze and story time with librarians from the Beverly Hills Public Library. 

Additionally, the Greystone Gala Family Dance will take place on Dec. 13 from 6-9 p.m. The event will feature dinner, dancing, games, and photos and is designed for kindergarteners to third-graders, and members of their family. Tickets are $125 per couple and $65 for additional family members. For more information and to register for the Gala Family Dance, visit beverlyhills.org/csevents. 

The post Holiday Events Set for Greystone appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Moreno has served as Acting Captain of the Field Services Bureau since May 2025. He has also held additional key roles, including Patrol Officer, Crime Suppression Officer, School Resource Officer, Field Training Officer, Internal Affairs Supervisor, and, most recently, Traffic Bureau Commander. 

“Captain Moreno is a valuable member of the Beverly Hills Police Department and brings 29 years of dedicated law enforcement experience. We are pleased to have him in this permanent leadership position and look forward to the positive impact he will continue to have on our officers and the Beverly Hills community,” said Chief Mark G. Stainbrook. 

The post Moreno Promoted to Rank of BHPD Captain appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Chief Barton explains that there are three common occurrences for fire department calls that increase during the holiday season: kitchen fires, candles, and overloaded electrical systems. 

“If somebody’s cooking a big meal and they’re tired, they might go sit down and maybe have a sip of wine, and then forget they’ve left something cooking on the stove, which overflows or hot grease catches fire,” explained Barton. “Never leave a stove unattended and share the cooking responsibilities, so someone is always watching.” Barton also cautions residents on the use of deep fryers for frying turkeys. “If you don’t do it right it can cause a huge flash and a big fire. If you’re in a brush area, you want to make sure that your fryer (or barbecue) is away from the brush because you don’t want something to catch the brush on fire. You just need to be extremely careful.”

“Everybody likes to have candles lit during the holidays, and candles are great. However, people will often light them and leave them to burn down unattended, potentially catching something on fire, which leads to a house fire,” said Barton. “Don’t leave them lit in rooms that are unattended, and make sure they are all blown out before going to bed.”

Elaborating on electrical fire concerns, Barton explained, “Something we see more of during the holidays is overloaded electrical systems where people want a whole lot of lights up, and they just plug in extension cord to extension cord or circuit breaker to circuit breaker.  They overload the system, and it shorts out and causes a fire. Make sure extension cords are UL listed and not an imitation. If it is UL listed with a surge protector, it is designed to trip if overloaded. If it’s not UL listed, the surge protector could fail, cause a short, and lead to a fire.” 

When asked about the potential for Christmas trees catching fire, the Chief had these tips: “Make sure you keep your Christmas tree watered so it stays green. Try to get it as late as possible or as close as possible to Christmas. As soon as Christmas is over, take it outside. The city will come and pick it up through January. Just remove all decorations and leave by the garbage bins. Most importantly, you need to get it out of the house because as soon as the needles dry out, they catch on fire very easily. We’ve had a couple of those fires; big, big fires because of Christmas trees that burn.”

Beverly Hills Police Chief Mark Stainbrook asks that everyone stay alert during the holidays. “We need people to be our eyes and ears, and call when they see suspicious activity. Don’t hesitate to call. Theft, especially retail theft, increases dramatically throughout Los Angeles at this time of year.”

As people become more distracted with shopping, entertaining guests, and running errands, that overwhelm is what criminals are counting on, so it’s important to prioritize your personal safety. Stainbrook advises, “When shopping and you park your car at two or three o’clock in the afternoon, it’s daylight, but when you return, it will likely be dark. You know you’re going to be carrying gifts, so think about where you park and when you might come back. If you’re concerned at all, ask for a security guard to escort you or be on the phone with somebody as you walk, so they know your location. If somebody does confront you, give them whatever they ask for and get out of there. Call the police right away and let us know.” 

“We see a lot of people who leave expensive items in their cars, especially gifts and packages. They put them in their car, and they walk back to do more shopping. Lock your car and don’t leave any items of value in sight.”

While you are enjoying time out at dinner or on vacation, it’s important to safeguard your home best you can. “People have alarm systems, but they often don’t use them. Make sure that if you leave your house, you turn on your alarm. If you leave for vacation, let the police department know, so we can provide extra patrol around your house, and let your neighbors know you’ll be gone. Also, try to remove delivered packages from your porch right away,” explains Stainbrook. “In the event that someone does break into your home while you are there, don’t confront them. Let them take whatever they want so you are not injured and call 9-1-1 right away.”

The end of year is a time when all charitable organizations are asking for donations, so it is especially important to confirm that anyone asking for money is legitimate. Fraud increases during the holidays. Stainbrook cautions, “Beware of anybody calling, texting or emailing you saying that they’re from a charitable organization. If you do get an email, check the source to be sure it is from that organization. No one should text you saying you owe money, a fine or anything like that. We get that a lot; people who think they’re paying a fine, parking ticket or a toll, and it’s just fraudulent. No one from a government agency or police department is going to contact you by phone or text to tell you that you’ve committed some violation, and you owe money.” He added, “If you get a call from someone saying they represent the Beverly Hills Police Department and they’re asking for funds, don’t give it to them. Call the police department and let us know.”

Chief Barton shared his most memorable holiday call. “A family that was having Thanksgiving dinner at their new house decided they would start the fireplace for the first time. As soon as they started the fire, they heard squawking. It was a bird that was in the chimney, so they put the fire out right away. They called the fire department, and then we spent hours saving a crow that had decided to make a nest in the fireplace. The smoke caused the crow to become disoriented, but we were able to rescue it, and it survived, but it took a lot of work to get that crow out! We had nine firefighters on scene because it was very labor intensive. The chimney was hard to get down to catch the crow because there were all kinds of bends. In the end, everyone was OK and happy. The funniest part was we had invited our families to the station to eat dinner with us, but nine of us left our families to eat without us. A few hours later we returned, and told them we saved a bird, then we got to eat our bird!”

Chief Stainbrook recalled a funny Thanksgiving Day call as an officer with the LAPD. “I was working Thanksgiving Day and there was a stray dog that was a beautiful Akita. And I knew it was somebody’s because it had a collar. Animal control wouldn’t come out because it was the holiday, and they just asked us to take the dog back to the station. As I was trying to get the dog into my car and take it back to the station, it bit me on the hand. Since it was on Thanksgiving, all the officers were teasing me about being the turkey leg for the dog!”

Both Chief Barton and Chief Stainbrook wish everyone a very happy, healthy and safe holiday season. Remember, many of our firefighters and police officers are working on holidays away from their families, so if you see them, thank them! 

Make sure you are always in the know when it comes to safety by signing up for the city’s alerts. Text “BEVHILLS” to 888777 for general alerts and text “BHPDALERT” to 888777 for police alerts. For questions about emergency alerts call 310-285-1025. Visit beverlyhills.org/jicbh for complete safety information. 

The post Guest Column | Chiefs Barton and Stainbrook on Keeping Safe this Holiday Season appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

The membership would only apply towards emergency medical services provided by the Beverly Hills Fire Department within city limits.

“I am excited to launch this new initiative—one designed to make healthcare more accessible, more affordable, and more compassionate for every Beverly Hills resident,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Sharona Nazarian. “The BH Wellness Network brings our world-class Fire Department directly into the heart of our community by ensuring that when you need emergency care, cost is not a barrier. For just $90 a year, an entire household can receive paramedic and transport services for a nominal fee. This is about giving our residents peace of mind, strengthening our safety net, and using innovation to support the health and well-being of every family in our city. And this is only the beginning. We will continue to expand this program with additional wellness services over the next year—because a safer, stronger, and more united Beverly Hills includes access to the care people deserve.”

Beverly Hills residents who are uninsured can still enroll in the “BH Wellness Network” to help offset the costs of paramedic services. The reduction amount is dependent on each healthcare plan.

Detailed information and applications are currently available at beverlyhills.org/bhwellnessnetwork. Enrollment begins Dec. 1, 2025 and membership benefits begin Jan. 1, 2026. 

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Daphna Nazarian, Wallis Board Chair, said, “Robert’s vision, dedication and his belief in a collaborative arts community has broadened our core mission. We are deeply grateful for Robert’s strong leadership and the many contributions he has made during his time with us. His decades of experience expanding access to the arts and breaking down barriers and divides across genres made him a great fit to set the stage and foundation for our organization as we embarked on the second decade in the history, growth and evolution of the Wallis Annenberg Performing Arts Center.”
 

During van Leer’s tenure at The Wallis, he established a new template for the programming.  In a short time, The Wallis became the region’s most important home for a number of widely regarded performing arts companies based in Southern California. Van Leer also brought and/or continued relationships with LA Opera led by Christopher Koelsch, Sebastian Paul and Marybelle Musco President and CEO, that had a triumph with the world premiere of Beth Morrison Projects’ HILDEGARD; Pacific Jazz Orchestra founded by Chris Walden, National Theatre Live, Seth Rudetsky, the new Scott Dunn Orchestra performing the music of classic Hollywood film composers, Film Independent, MUSE/IQUE led by Artistic Director Rachael Worby, the ASCAP Musical Theatre program with composer lyricist Stephen Schwartz, and performances by the Colburn School, among others.
 

Van Leer led the team of 50 at The Wallis in presenting more than 140 productions, with over 150 curtains each season. This provided audiences and education program participants with an advanced access to the arts, and expanded programming that integrate legacy art forms with contemporary ones.
  

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Nazarian joins fellow Advisory Board appointees Barbara Feingold, philanthropist and member of the United States Holocaust Memorial Council; Aaron Keyak, former U.S. Deputy Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism; Noam Lee, former executive director of the Democratic Governors Association and Scott Singer, mayor of Boca Raton, Florida.

In a statement, CAM noted that the new additions to the board “further strengthen the organization’s ability to bring together leaders from across the political spectrum to confront antisemitism in all its forms and advance practical solutions in communities throughout the world.

“Each of our new U.S. Advisory Board members brings a unique set of experiences, networks, and perspectives that reflect CAM’s core commitment to bipartisan collaboration,” said Alyza D. Lewin, president of U.S. Affairs at the Combat Antisemitism Movement. “Their leadership will help deepen CAM’s partnerships with federal, state, and local officials, as well as civic and faith leaders, to ensure that antisemitism is recognized, understood, and effectively addressed wherever it appears. As we expand our U.S. operations, the addition of such strong voices from across the political spectrum underscores the momentum we are building and our shared determination to unite Americans around the values of safety, dignity, and equal rights for Jewish communities.”

Nazarian also serves as a member of CAM’s Mayors Advisory Board.  

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The discovery began when crews noticed glass embedded beneath the soil near the flagpole. After a careful excavation, a mason jar was revealed. Inside the jar was an original 1939 edition of Beverly Highlights, the student-run BHHS newspaper, and a typed dedication letter, each documenting the meaning and significance of the Knights Bench. 

The newspaper article noted: “Also new item to the Knights organization and a surprise to many was the new Knights Bench forming a semi-circle about the flagpole. This bench was kindly donated to the organization by Mr. W. S. McGilvray, father of Morgan McGilvray, one of the members.”

The dedication letter read, “In appreciation of the ideals of the Knights and for the furthering of their purposes in creating a standard of achievement among the Student Body, this bench has been given to the Knights by Mr. W. S. McGilvray in the month of June, 1939. It is being dedicated on this day, June 14, 1939, in the presence of the present Knight membership, under the supervision of the faculty sponsors, and before the assembled Student Body.”

Further research led to the 1939 BHHS Watchtower yearbook, which described the Knights as a highly selective student organization. According to the yearbook, “It is the goal of every high school boy to become a Knight, because membership means that he has achieved the highest honor in the school, that he has been chosen for dependability, for outstanding sportsmanship, for service, for scholastic attainments, and for citizenship throughout his school career.” 

Over many decades of lawn growth, renovations, and resurfacing, the stone gradually became covered, and the mason jar remained sealed and unseen until now. “This discovery reminds us that Beverly Hills High School is more than a campus. It is a story carried forward by each generation,” said Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss. 

The mason jar, newspaper, and letter are being preserved, not restored or altered, to maintain their original character. The Knights Bench stone will also be preserved and displayed as part of the restored Grand Lawn.

To continue this legacy, BHHS ASB students will begin to create a new 2025 time capsule, to be placed beneath the completed Grand Lawn for future Normans to uncover.  

The post Time Capsule from 1939 Discovered at BHHS appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

This prestigious recognition places the two among the top high school scholars nationwide, representing less than one percent of all graduating seniors across the country. Both students were honored at last month’s BHUSD Board of Education meeting, where they received official certificates of recognition from district leaders and their principal.

Both students began their educational journey at Horace Mann Elementary, continued through Beverly Vista Middle School, and then on the BHHS. 

“We are incredibly proud of Ezra and Xander for earning this national distinction,” said Dr. Dustin Seemann, Assistant Superintendent of Education Services. “Their hard work, intellectual curiosity, and perseverance represent the very best of BHUSD students.”

The National Merit Scholarship Program honors students who demonstrate exceptional academic promise through outstanding performance on the PSAT/NMSQT exam. Semi-Finalists now move forward in the competition for National Merit Finalist standing and the opportunity to earn scholarships sponsored by colleges, corporations, and the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.  

The post Two BHHS Students Named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Attendees enjoyed artwork in ceramics, drawing and printmaking, glass, jewelry, photography, mixed media, painting, photography and digital art, sculpture, and watercolor. Other featured events included a Creative Hub with people of all ages engaging hands-on artmaking, a beer and wine garden and live artist demonstrations. Chalk art masters Stacy Nalapraya and Gloria Ing both created engaging murals.  

Meleko Mokgosi, Devon Tsuno, Phung Huynh, and Oscar Magallanes, who are creating artworks for the future Beverly Drive and Century City Stations, demonstrated the processes behind their artwork designs for the future stations through hands-on collage and portrait-making activities.

The winners of the 2025 Beverly Hills Art Show are Best of Show, Emily Wallerstein; Best Display of Art, Shawn Waco; Best New Artist, Will Raojanina; Gil Borgos Originality Award, Aly Kourouma; and Mayor’s Purchase Award, Danilo Cuxil. First place winners in each category are: Ceramics, Jerry & Tanner Sawitz; Drawing and Printmaking, Jeff Seemayer & Colinne Rubin; Glass, Marc Gordon; Jewelry, Birgit Kupke Peyla;

Mixed Media, Two Dimensional, Christian Benoit; Mixed Media, Three Dimensional, Hugo Heredia Barrera; Painting, Ashley Ravidas; Photography and Digital Art, Mark Levin;

Sculpture, K.L. Wollons; Watercolor, Taman Vanscoy.

The Beverly Hills Art Show is produced by the city of Beverly Hills Community Services Department and is held every May and October. The spring 2026 Beverly Hills Art Show will be held on May 16 and 17, 2026.

The post Winners Announced for the Fall 2025 Beverly Hills Art Show appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

“Our football team continues to show up for this school with dedication and pride,” said BHHS Principal Loan Sriruksa. “Homecoming gave us the chance to recognize their commitment, especially our seniors, who lead with integrity and represent what it means to be part of BHHS Athletics.”

The event also served as an opportunity to acknowledge the city of Beverly Hills for its continued support of BHUSD schools. The presence of School Resource Officers at every home game, the Beverly Hills Fire Department’s onsite support, and the engagement of city leaders all contributed to a meaningful event. Additionally, the BHHS mascot was projected onto the Beverly Hills City Hall as a special salute to the school that evening. 

Attendees included Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss, Board of Education Members Rachelle Marcus, Judy Manouchehri and Russell Stuart, as well as City Councilmember Mary Wells, who previously served on the BHUSD Board of Education.

“This night was about our students,” said Dr. Cherniss. “It was about showing them that they are supported, seen, and celebrated by an entire city that believes in them. That’s the heart of our community and the promise of Educational Excellence.”  

The post Beverly High Homecoming a Great Success appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

This free event is presented by the city of Beverly Hills Community Services Department, with community partner, the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts. To get more information about the event, and to register for the Pumpkin Contest, please visit www.beverlyhills.org/farmersmarket.

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The new field provides BVMS with a regulation-sized athletic facility where students can train and compete. The upgraded space includes new turf, modern safety features, and an improved layout designed for performance and play.

“This field is a shining example of what happens when a community comes together to support its schools,” said Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss. “The students of BVMS now have a space that reflects the strength of their school spirit and the district’s commitment to excellence.” 

The post Beverly Vista Middle School Celebrates Ribbon Cutting for New Athletic Field appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

The Association installed Anthony D. Storm of Storm Palyan LLP as President. “I am honored to serve in this role and excited to focus on additional expansion in my presidential year. BHBA just concluded the most financially successful year in our nearly 100-year history, with over 7,200 members—an all-time high,” said Storm.

In addition to providing access to continuing legal education programs for lawyers across the state, Storm will focus on matching lawyers to pro bono projects.

The Association also welcomed Alphonse Provinziano of Provinziano & Associates as President-Elect; Mathew S. Rosengart of Greenburg Traurig as Vice President; and Ron Reitshtein of Youngman Reitshtein, PLC as Secretary-Treasurer. Nadira Imam of Lawrence H. Jacobson, APC will serve as Immediate Past President. The Association also swore in a new cohort of local attorneys as Governors: Sanaz Bereliani of Bereliani Law Firm; Ori Blumenfeld of Offit Kurman; Jennifer L. Campbell of Holland & Knight; Deborah Fujiwara of EPGR Lawyers; Beth Moeller of UCLA Law; Robin Sax of Law Offices of Robin Sax; Zenja Tobias of Tobias Law Group; Erika A. Williams of The Law Office of Erika A. Williams; and Jamie Wright of The Wright Law Firm.

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RIOS’ design draws on California’s biodiversity and takes inspiration from the state’s distinct ecological zones. Species once cultivated by the historic nursery will be reintroduced alongside new plantings. Visitors will encounter pollinator gardens alive with butterflies and hummingbirds, color-themed landscapes, and cascading water features. 

Mayor Sharona Nazarian noted, “The forthcoming botanical gardens at One Beverly Hills will bring new life to our city. They reimagine the Western gateway to Beverly Hills, a site that has been a cornerstone of our community for generations. When complete, they will honor our city’s legacy while advancing our commitment to sustainability, beauty, and unity. Residents and visitors will have a new place to gather, connect with nature, and experience Beverly Hills in a way that celebrates both our history and our future.”

Jonathan Goldstein, co-founder and CEO of Cain, observed, “The gardens at One Beverly Hills reflect our belief that community and wellbeing must be at the centre of urban design. From the beginning, our vision has been to create a place that feels part of the fabric of Beverly Hills while welcoming residents and visitors alike. By restoring these historic grounds, we are investing in a landscape that will endure, enrich the city’s cultural identity, and provide future generations with a space to gather, reflect, and connect with nature.”

Additionally, One Beverly Hills has announced that retail and dining partners including Dolce & Gabbana, Casa Tua Cucina, and Los Mochis will be among the brands featured in the project’s 200,000-square-foot curated retail offering.

Phased completion of One Beverly Hills is expected to commence in 2027.  

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The Resident Members of Team BH are: Michelle Adams, Michael Lippman,Nicole Ahobim, Meghan Mariani, Ashley Anderson. Claire O Brien, Teja Anderson. Ryan Osborn,

Michael Arena, Elaine Polacheck, Krissy Austin, Jeannine Ramer, Judy Burkow Roxana Rastegar, Ruth Chung, Paula Rodriguez, Donelle Dadigan, Susie Romano, Kelsey Dempsey, Dena Roth, Ethan Eichman, Jordan Rubinstein, Francis Ford, Maxime Salvador, Michelle Hadley, Lana Savinoff, Cynthia Hajjar. Drew Speckman, Carole Hakak, Kilani (Lani) Storm, Aaron Hasson. Kehvon Thomas, Hilary Helstein, Richman Tine, Cindy Kamm, Dimitri Tolios, Maryam Kazerani Pasikhani, Eden Yungerman and Alexandra (Ali) Kozak

The Business Members of Team BH are Ariel Rofeim – Rofeim Law, APC and

Tatiana Zinko – Giroud Nutrition LLC2025-2026

The Student Members of Team BH are Naomi Chung and Ariela Tehrani

Class of 2024 Member is Pamela Klamer 

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Students in the academy will rotate through a group of Beverly Hills’ most iconic luxury hotels, engaging in hands-on, immersive learning experiences across industries including hospitality, culinary arts, business, media, engineering, and more.

BHUSD Career Technical Education Coordinator Cindy Dubin described the curriculum for the Courier. “In addition to the monthly rotations to the six hotels, our participants also attend monthly workshops on our BHHS campus, exploring a continuum of career exploration programming.  Our students are learning about storytelling, branding, and resume building from top-notch human resource professionals right here in our own community.  We are so fortunate to have such generous and enthusiastic industry leaders supporting our public education,” Dubin said.

“Career Academy is a powerful example of how we connect classroom learning with authentic industry experience,” said BHHS Principal Loan Sriruksa. “Our students are not just visiting hotels; they are working alongside professionals in some of the most renowned hospitality institutions in the world.”

BHUSD Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss sees the program as a positive example of community-student investment.  He added, “The partnership between BHHS and Beverly Hills’ hospitality leaders provides a level of access, mentorship, and opportunity that is truly extraordinary” 

The post BHHS Launches 2025 Career Academy appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

“At BHHS, we believe in living each day with intention, academically, socially, and emotionally,” she said. “Back to School Night allows us to strengthen the connections that make that possible and set the tone for a positive, productive year,” said BHHS Principal Loan Srisraka.   

The post BHHS Holds Back to School Night appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Key highlights of the redesign include:

•Unified District Calendar: A single location where all external school events are posted, making it easier than ever for the community to stay informed and engaged.

•BHHS Virtual Alumni Hall of Fame: In collaboration with the Beverly Hills High School Alumni Association, the new virtual Hall of Fame transforms the existing on-campus display into an accessible, interactive online experience. Visitors from anywhere in the world can explore and celebrate the achievements of distinguished BHHS alumni, keeping their legacy alive for generations to come.

•Unified Menu: One menu allows users to switch between school sites.

“Our schools deserve a digital presence that reflects the quality of education and opportunity we provide. This launch is a major step forward in making sure our communication tools match the exceptional work happening every day in BHUSD,” said Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss.

The redesigned websites are now live and can be explored at bhusd.org. Visitors are encouraged to share feedback through the online form available on each site. 

The post BHUSD Launches Redesigned District-Wide Website appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Continuing a valued tradition, BHUSD honored staff members for their years of dedicated service, recognizing those who have made a lasting difference in the lives of students. Honorees included those who have been with the district from between 10 and 40 years.

Additionally, the Apple Awards recognized staff members who went above and beyond during the 2024–25 school year. Recipients included:

• Beverly Hills High School: Ted Yoo, Roel Hinojosa

• Beverly Vista Middle School: Elizabeth Schultz, Vergine Aiazian

• El Rodeo Elementary School: Liat Canes

• Horace Mann Elementary School: Tiffany Graham

• District Office: Marilu De Arcos, Reiona Smith   

The post BHUSD Opening Day Launches New School Year appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

This growing scam trend has victimized many in the elderly community. In this case, the victim provided a total of $59,000 in U.S. currency to the suspects, who arrived at his residence on two separate occasions to collect the funds. The suspects even manipulated caller ID systems to display the actual name of the victim’s financial institution, further legitimizing their scheme.

Once the victim realized he had been deceived, he contacted the Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD), and a criminal investigation began. Investigators were able to identify two suspects and their vehicles utilizing the city’s network of security cameras, license plate readers and other resources. 

A joint effort by BHPD and the Simi Valley Police Department resulted in an enforcement stop of one suspect vehicle in Simi Valley. The sole occupant was identified as one of the individuals who had collected money from the victim and was arrested. At the time of arrest, the suspect was in possession of U.S. currency.

Investigators believe there may be additional victims, as the arrestee was found to have traveled throughout Southern and Northern California conducting similar scams. One outstanding suspect remains, and the investigation continues. 

The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has filed the following charges against Hsinfu Lin, 22, from Richmond, CA:

• CPC 487(a) – Grand Theft

• CPC 532(a) – Theft by False Pretense

• CPC 368(d) – Financial Elder Abuse

BHPD urges the public to remain vigilant against phone and internet scams. Anyone who receives a suspicious call requesting money transfers or cash withdrawals should contact their financial institution directly and report the incident to local law enforcement. 

The post BHPD Arrest Suspect in Organized Crime Scam Targeting Elderly Victim appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

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As a student-athlete, Dominique helped lead the girls basketball team to a CIF championship in 2017 and 2018. She went on to play Division I hockey at Harvard University, earning recognition as both a standout athlete and leader. In 2024, she joined the PWHL’s Minnesota team, where she played a pivotal role in winning the league’s national championship and raising the Walter Cup.

Dominique returned to the BHHS campus this summer, bringing the Walter Cup back to the community where her journey began. She reconnected with coaches and students, serving as a living example of the power of passion, perseverance, and preparation.

“Dominique embodies the very best of BHUSD,” said Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss. “Her journey is a powerful reminder to our students that excellence is not just a goal, but a mindset. When you combine talent with character and grit, anything is possible. We are proud to celebrate her accomplishments and the inspiration she brings to our entire district.” 

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“Our commitment to educational excellence begins long before the first day of school,” said Cherniss. “We use this time to come together as a leadership team to align our vision, sharpen our goals, and prepare to support every student, every day.”

The retreat included sessions on academic planning, instructional leadership, and operational readiness, ensuring that every school is set up for success this fall.

“Although school’s out, our leadership team is all in,” said Cherniss. “We are energized, united, and ready to make this year one of the best yet.” 

The post BHUSD Holds Leadership Retreat at Hawthorne Campus appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

In accordance with state law, the city of Beverly Hills participates in labor negotiations with its employee associations. The results of the negotiations process are written agreements or contracts reached between the city and the city employee associations.  In addition, the Beverly Hills City Council in 2014 adopted a Civic Openness in Negotiations “COIN” ordinance to provide additional impartiality and transparency to the collective bargaining process.

A community meeting was held on Oct. 29, 2024, in preparation for negotiations with the Police Management Group and the two other sworn employee groups: the Police Officers’ Association and the Firefighters’ Association. A public meeting seeking specific community input was held at the City Council meeting on Nov. 7, 2024. Negotiations are ongoing for the Police Officers’ and Firefighters’ Associations.

The proposed MOU covers salaries and benefits for a four-year term. Per the city’s COIN Ordinance, an independent fiscal analysis was conducted. The fiscal analyses and proposed MOU are posted on the city’s website at https://beverlyhills.org/1473/Labor-Negotiations-2025.

There are nine represented employee associations within the city of Beverly Hills. In addition to the three sworn employee groups there are six non-sworn employee associations, Confidential, Management and Professional, MEA (Technical Services), Part-Time, Safety Support, and Supervisors. The MOUs for the city’s six non-sworn employee associations expire in Oct. 2026.

To see all MOUs, visit beverlyhills.org/mou. 

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“If you want to learn what it really takes to become a filmmaker, this is the class,” said Newman. “From story development to editing, set experience to post-production, students will have the chance to work on real projects, meet real professionals, and take their skills beyond the classroom.”

Newman has directed feature films including “Fanboys,” “Barely Lethal” and “1Up,” and has produced content for Taylor Swift, Lana Del Rey, and Hasbro Studios. He is also the co-author of multiple New York Times bestselling books and currently serves as executive producer on an upcoming “Dungeons & Dragons” documentary. His current projects will serve as entry points for BHUSD students to gain exposure, mentorship, and hands-on opportunities in the creative arts.

Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss described Newman’s hiring as “a game-changing moment” for the district.

“Kyle brings the highest level of expertise and credibility. He is here to help our students build real careers, not just classroom projects,” said Cherniss. “This is a perfect example of how BHUSD blends academic rigor with career readiness. We’re proud to support a program that sets students up for meaningful success.”

Newman is already developing a new slate of programming for BHUSD’s broadcast platforms, which will include both student-produced content and district features, soon to be available on streaming platforms like Apple TV, Amazon Fire, and Roku.

“Students in this program won’t just be learning, they’ll be creating,” said Newman. “We’re building something real, together.” 

The post BHUSD Appoints Kyle Newman as Director of Broadcast Production Program appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Formed in 1996, Team Beverly Hills provides residents with a hands-on look at the operations of local government.  The program features a variety of class sessions and includes interactive experiences with many departments. Program participants explore the behind-the-scenes operations of the city including Public Works, Emergency Management, Information Technology, Community Services and Public Safety. More than 800 residents have completed Team Beverly Hills and over 70% of all current elected officials and City Commissioners are Team BH alumni.

The Team Beverly Hills program will select 50 residents (30 appointed by the City Council, 18 selected by a random lottery, and two selected by the Beverly Hills Unified School District) for its upcoming class. Five representatives from the city’s business community (appointed by the City Council) will also be selected for the program, which kicks off later this year.

To learn more about Team Beverly Hills and fill out an application online, visit beverlyhills.org/teambeverlyhills or by emailing teambh@beverlyhills.org. 

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Garner Holt Productions is known for creating the lifelike animatronic figures featured in iconic attractions like Disneyland, including classics like Pirates of the Caribbean and the Hall of Presidents. Their Education Through Imagination initiative offers makerspace consultation, design, installation, and training grounded in real-world applications of engineering, design, coding, and storytelling.

The visit was an opportunity for BHUSD leadership to explore how programs like Garner Holt can inform and inspire future learning environments.

“We were inspired by how technology and storytelling come together to spark curiosity and creativity,” said BHUSD Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss. “This experience deepened our understanding of how BHUSD might thoughtfully design future academic programs that integrate immersive, high-impact learning aligned with our commitment to Educational Excellence.” 

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Known for her radiant voice, emotional depth, and magnetic stage presence, Zahra has captivated audiences across continents, bringing fresh vitality to the grand tradition of classical music. This performance at Broad Stage marks a homecoming of sorts for Zahra, who grew up in Beverly Hills.  

The program will feature iconic arias from Puccini, Verdi, and Bellini, highlighting Zahra’s vocal agility and emotional range. Whether channeling the beauty of Puccini’s La bohème, the fire and drama of Verdi’s La traviata, or the bel canto elegance of Bellini, Zahra’s interpretations promise to be both masterful and moving.

Adding to the evening’s magic is a selection of timeless Broadway favorites, including beloved numbers from The Sound of Music, My Fair Lady, and Les Misérables. This genre-crossing repertoire showcases Zahra’s remarkable versatility and her passion for connecting with audiences of all musical tastes. States Golda Zahra: “As a classical singer, my goal is to make opera accessible for everyone. Like Pavarotti and Friends who made people smile, warmed their hearts and united them in their love for music.”

Backing her is the acclaimed Dream Orchestra, an ensemble known for its lush sound and dynamic programming. Under the expert direction of Maestro Daniel Suk, the orchestra will also perform famous overtures and instrumental interludes, rounding out a program that blends elegance, passion and joy.

Whether you are an opera aficionado or simply someone who appreciates a soaring melody and a heartfelt performance, this concert promises an evening of inspiration and enchantment. Zahra’s rare combination of technical brilliance and heartfelt storytelling continues to earn her standing ovations—and July 12 at Broad Stage will be no exception.

Don’t miss your chance to witness a rising star at the height of her powers in one of Southern California’s most intimate and acoustically stunning venues.

Golda in Concert with the Dream Orchestra conducted by Daniel Suk, July 12 at 7:30 PM at the Eli and Edythe Broad Stage 1310 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA.  Tickets and more information are available at GoldaInConcert.com. Tickets include a champagne dessert reception hosted by Urth Caffe during intermission. To explore more about Golda Zahra’s artistry, biography, and upcoming appearances, visit her website at GoldaZahra.com.

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BHPD officers quickly located the vehicle within Beverly Hills city limits. When officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, the vehicle failed to yield, prompting a pursuit. The suspect vehicle eventually became disabled near the intersection of Beverly Drive and Rexford Drive. Four occupants then fled on foot.

Officers immediately apprehended three of the individuals a short distance away. A coordinated containment and search effort led to the successful location and arrest of the fourth suspect in a nearby residential yard shortly afterward.

There were no reported injuries during the incident. All four suspects are now in custody, and the case remains under investigation.

The Beverly Hills Police Department credits the effectiveness of its ALPR system, along with the rapid and professional response of its officers, for the safe and successful resolution of the incident.

“This incident is another clear example of how our police officers acted swiftly and decisively, supported by our civilian professional staff, to ensure the suspects were taken into custody without harm to the community,” said Chief Mark G. Stainbrook. “I am proud of our Department’s continued commitment to proactive policing and public safety.” 

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Spearheaded by the BHUSD Communications Department, this partnership follows a successful district-led effort earlier this month to remove an anonymous Instagram account that was posting harmful content targeting BHHS students. The swift removal was made possible through direct collaboration between BHUSD and Instagram, setting a precedent for how our district can proactively safeguard student well-being in digital spaces.

As part of the program, all official BHUSD Instagram accounts now feature the official School Partner verification badge, distinguishing BHUSD as an early participant in this important national effort.

“With a platform as large as Instagram, this partnership equips BHUSD with real-time tools to help protect our students online,” said Dr. Alex Cherniss, Superintendent of Schools. “We are proud to be part of this initiative prioritizing student safety in digital spaces.”

Participating schools receive priority reporting access, real-time response updates, and direct platform support. Instagram also provides BHUSD with educational resources for students, families, and staff to promote safe and responsible social media use.

The Instagram School Partnership Program was developed in collaboration with the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) and the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD) to give educators more direct control in combating bullying and harmful online content. The program is currently open via waitlist to middle and high schools nationwide. BHUSD’s early inclusion reflects our proactive approach to communications and our commitment to creating a safe educational environment, both online and off. 

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This year’s program will spotlight Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter Gaby Moreno, whose bilingual Latin, Blues, Folk, and Americana songs earned her the 2024 Grammy. Also featured is Versa-Style Dance Company and the Filipino-American a cappella group, the Filharmonic. Adding to the lineup, the Korean Senior Community Center Los Angeles (KSCCLA) Harmonica Ensemble, a viral sensation from this past season’s LA King’s games, will perform.

“Festival Beverly Hills is more than an event, it’s a joyful celebration of who we are as a community,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Sharona Nazarian. “From music and dance to food and art, it’s a day where people from all parts of our city come alive through culture, connection, learning and pride. We’re bringing people together to celebrate the heart and soul of Beverly Hills, united in our diversity and inspired by what we can create together.”

Attendees can also enjoy returning Festival favorites from the Farhang Foundation, Kooban Ensemble and Chef Mojdeh Eghbal.
Family-friendly activities will include storytelling with the nation’s longest-running Asian-American improv troupe, Cold Tofu, along with origami-making workshops.  Kids can participate in dance classes by Everybody Dance LA, and experience LA Commons’ stunning large-scale backpack puppets. 

The Consular Corps of Los Angeles returns as a key partner. “Rhythm! Being part of a movement, brings joy, representing the Trinbagonian culture,” said Joan Chanman Forbes, of the Consulate of Trinidad and Tobago.  

The Italian consulate will feature bassist and jazz composer Luca Alemanno who will present an innovative take on the work of iconic Italian movie composers like Ennio Morricone and Nino Rota. The Senegalese consulate will showcase storytelling and fashion from the African nation.  

Additional performances include Dansa Azteca, Naruwan Taiko, Qing Wei Lion & Dragon Dance Cultural Troupe, and ZCC Brass Band.

For more information, visit beverlyhills.org/csevents. 

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Officer Christian Bond, the president of BHPOA, told the Courier, “An overwhelming number of members of the association participated, and voted in favor of the vote of no confidence. We’re waiting on City Council to see what direction the city will go.”

The BHPOA’s membership is comprised of all BHPD sworn personnel, including officers, sergeants, lieutenants and captains. The chief of police is not a member. 

The vote was initiated after Bond sent an email to BHPOA members on June 6 listing 10 bullet-pointed concerns that had been brought to his attention by members. Several addressed an alleged lack of investment in the growth and retention of sworn personnel, including bypassing internal candidates for promotions and an overreliance on private security contractors.

Others included a “misrepresentation of current staffing levels to City Council” and the “retention of personnel who do not meet required training standards.” 

“This type of vote reflects serious concerns about morale, management decisions, departmental stability, and overall leadership,” the email states. “It is intended to bring attention to these issues and initiate accountability and change at the highest level of the department.”

In response to the vote,  Keith Sterling, the city’s deputy city manager, said in a statement that, “The safety and security of Beverly Hills is always the City Council’s top priority. We are currently in active labor negotiations with several bargaining units, including the Beverly Hills Police Officers Association.”

The statement continued, “We are proud that our Police Department has done an outstanding job of keeping the community safe and reducing crime over the last several years, despite the ongoing challenges faced throughout the region. The City Council is aware of the vote that was taken by the BHPOA. We take the issues raised by the BHPOA seriously and the City Manager is reviewing them with Chief Stainbrook.”

The Courier has also obtained a copy of an email response sent by Stainbrook to officers in which he directly addressed some of the concerns laid out in the vote of no confidence.

In the email, Stainbrook wrote, “[t]he City Manager, my Command Staff, HR, and I are always willing to meet with the [BH]POA Board in a ‘Meet and Confer'” and invited recipients to call him on his direct phone number. 

In regard to the allegation of a lack of investment in the growth and retention of sworn personnel, Stainbrook wrote, “I always want to hire and promote from within. It is my personal measure of success to see everyone here who wants to promote get promoted.”

Regarding the assertion that personnel who do not meet training standards are nevertheless retained, Stainbrook wrote, “All BHPD sworn personnel are selected and trained according to state law and the CA POST standards. I have not been briefed on any current sworn officer who does not meet those standards.”

And in addressing the concern that current staffing levels have been misrepresented to the Beverly Hills City Council, Stainbrook wrote, “I have worked closely with our Human Resources Department to accurately account for vacant positions … I keep the City Council, and the City Manager advised of current trends, recruitment/retention trends in the region, and the contracts that other POAs and cities have approved. I do not believe there have been any misrepresentations by me.”

In the week that has elapsed since the vote of no confidence, Bond has addressed speculation that the vote of no confidence was designed as a labor negotiation tactic by the union.

“The idea that this was a negotiating tactic is completely untrue … We did this for the membership. We checked the bylaws carefully. We used a secure platform,” he told the Courier.

Bond added that to his knowledge, this is the first vote of no confidence against a chief in the city’s history. He said Stainbrook “has been aware for the past year about the membership’s concerns and did not take action.”

“This was before labor negotiations were even in sight,” said Bond. “We met with the city manager at least three months ago to let her know that there was talk of a vote of no confidence. I told her I didn’t want to go that route, but we heard back nothing. Things did not change, and the membership was pressing for the vote of no confidence.” 

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BHUSD Superintendent Dr. Alex Cherniss, Board of Education President Rachelle Marcus, and Board Member Russell Stuart joined community members in supporting the citywide effort. The Beverly Hills Education Foundation (BHEF) led the event’s games and relays.

“This event was a great example of what makes Beverly Hills such a special place. It’s not just about services, it’s about people coming together to learn, support one another, and strengthen our community,” said Cherniss. “Even as summer begins, the work of keeping our families informed, connected, and prepared continues. I’m proud to represent BHUSD at events like these, where partnership and purpose come together.” 

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Each year, the club president (this year it is Fire Chief Greg Barton) selects the recipient. Dzubak was recognized for his exceptional dedication, leadership, and embodiment of Rotary’s motto “Service Above Self.”

The award includes a $10,000 charitable donation in the honoree’s name to a nonprofit of their choosing, jointly funded by Janis Black-Warner & Doug Warner ($5,000) and the Rotary Club of Beverly Hills ($5,000). This year’s celebration held particular significance as Stanley Black, 92, the philanthropist and award namesake, attended the event in person. 

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“These are the right people at the right time,” said Board of Education President Rachelle Marcus. “Steve and Devon bring the experience, vision, and dedication needed to take our athletics program to the next level.”

As part of their roles, Lawson and Saxon will support oversight of the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) between BHUSD and the city of Beverly Hills. The JPA governs the shared use, maintenance, and scheduling of city and district facilities, a critical partnership that enhances access, safety, and programming for students and the broader community. Having athletic leaders in these positions ensures strong alignment between school needs and city resources.

An Army veteran, Lawson brings decades of high-level experience in coaching, program development, and athletic administration. He is a U.S. Open Champion, Pan American Games Bronze Medalist, and Olympic Festival Silver Medalist, and has served as Head Wrestling Coach at El Dorado High School for more than 27 years. During his tenure, he led teams to multiple league and CIF titles and coached 18 individual CIF champions, including a California State Champion.

Lawson is also the founder and director of SCWAY (State of California Wrestling Alliance for Youth), one of the state’s most impactful youth athletics organizations. SCWAY currently serves over 2,800 athletes and 75 clubs, and under Lawson’s leadership, has become a model for youth development, athletic safety, and coach training. Known for his disciplined yet student-centered approach, Lawson combines military precision with a deep belief in the character-building power of sports.

Saxon is a decorated cheer coach and educator who will work alongside Lawson. Saxon has led Birmingham Community Charter High School’s cheer program to six CIF-LA City Division I titles, two CIF State Runner-Up finishes, and consistent national recognition. Named the 2024 California Coaches Association Cheerleading Coach of the Year, Saxon is also a CIF-LA Cheerleading Co-Coordinator, overseeing logistics and competition planning for more than 80 school teams.

The Courier’s June 20 issue will include detailed reporting on the additional issues discussed/voted on during the June 10 meeting, including security costs related to construction, and a ban on administrator attendance at parent-teacher conferences.   

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The 2025 summer line-up:

June 5: Upstream (Reggae, Steel Drum, Soca, Calypso)

June 12: Country nation (Country)

June 19: Forward Motion Band (Funk, R&B, Jazz) 

June 26: The Funky Warhols (Disco Tribute) 

July 3: Smokin’ Cobras (Rockin’ Oldies) 

July 10: As If (90’s Tribute) 

July 17: No concert

July 24: Joyce Partise (Brazilian bossa nova)

July 31: Neon Nation (80’s Tribute)

Aug. 7 : Rod Lightning and the Thunderbolts of Love (Classic Rock Tribute)

Aug. 14: Leslie Paul & the Latin Soul Band (Salsa/Latin Jazz)

Aug. 21: The Tokens (Doo-Wop/Pop)

For more information about Concerts on Canon and the bands, visit beverlyhills.org/csevents or call 310-285-1000.  

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The CNPA is the state’s preeminent news publishers association, representing more than 700 newspapers, digital news outlets and campus organizations. This year, judges considered more than 2,300 entries for the awards, with eligible stories published in the calendar year 2024. 

Courier Publisher Lisa Friedman Bloch earned a first-place award in the category of “Sports Feature Story” for her Holiday STYLE cover profile, “Candace Parker Powering Forward,” and second place in the same category for her Summer STYLE cover story, “Jay Leno and Bruce Meyer How they Became the Kings of Cars.”  

The Courier’s COO/Executive Editor Ana Figueroa garnered a first-place award in the category of “Writing” and a second place in the category of “Food Writing/Reporting” for her Autumn 2024 Wine + Dine cover profile, “The Paradox of Evan Funke.” The piece also earned a fourth-place showing in the category of “Profile Story.” Figueroa’s news story, “Teacher Files Wrongful Termination Claim Against BHUSD” earned a fourth-place slot in the category of “Coverage of Youth and Education.” 

Arts and Entertainment writer Neely Swanson made a clean sweep in the “Film and TV Writing/Reporting” category. She took home first, second and third place for her reviews of “Seed of the Sacred Fig,” “Stay with Us” and “The Taste of Things,” respectively. 

Clara Harter, the Courier’s former staff writer (now with the Los Angeles Times) earned first- place awards in the category of “Breaking News” for her story, “Local Pro-Palestinian Protests Elicit Strong Response,” and another first place award in the category of “Housing and Land-Use Reporting” for “One Beverly Hills Breaks Ground.” She earned fourth place in that same category for “State to Approve the Beverly Hills Housing Element.” 

The efforts of the entire Courier staff were awarded a fifth-place win for Summer STYLE in the category of “Print Special Section.” 

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Highlights of the Tentative Agreement include a 4.75% increase to all salaries and extra pay, effective July 1, 2025; an increase in the certificated hourly rate to $66.46 per hour; a $1,500 increase to the benefits cap, bringing the new total to $14,750; new paid evacuation leave policies for natural or manmade disasters; updated class size ratios for transitional kindergarten through fifth grade; Counselor caseload guideline set at 325 students to one counselor; enhanced co-teaching language to support inclusive instruction and collaborative planning time; and additional staffing support, including the addition of a second district librarian.

“This agreement represents a major achievement for our entire community,” said Rachelle Marcus, President of the BHUSD Board of Education. “As a former teacher, I am thrilled to see us reach this agreement before the school year concludes. Both sides came to the table with respect and a shared focus on what is best for our students and educators. I am proud of the balanced outcome we achieved together.”

Katherine Warren, President of BHEA, stated, “We are delighted to have an agreement before the end of the school year. I would like to acknowledge the hard work and commitment of both bargaining teams in making this deal possible. I would also like to thank Dr. Cherniss and the Board for their continued support.” The Tentative Agreement will be submitted to BHEA membership for ratification and to the BHUSD Board of Education for formal approval. 

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More than 200 artists will display their works along four blocks of the park from Rodeo Dive to Rexford Drive. The biannual event is held every May and October and draws thousands to Beverly Hills. 

Artists will showcase their work in 10 categories including painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass, drawing, watercolor, traditional printmaking, photography and digital art, jewelry and more.  In addition to the art, the event will include gourmet food trucks, a beer and wine garden and a Creative Zone. 

Featured artists this year include Serhii Fomichov, from Ukraine, who creates small to large-scale sculptures using glass; Alex Paul, classically trained in Italy, who creates graphite drawings and first-time jewelry-maker Zhan Zhan.

The show’s newest partner, Los Angeles Printmaking Society (LAPS), a national nonprofit dedicated to the encouragement of printmaking and the artists who make prints, will feature four demonstrating artists at their booth in front of the Lily Pond in Beverly Gardens Park.    

Additionally, Stacy Nalapraya, a Los Angeles-based chalk artist, will be demonstrating her work near the food trucks on Saturday. 

Artists’ demonstrations will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.  For a full schedule of demonstrations and Creative Zone activities, visit beverlyhills.org/artshow.   

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The Courier is also a finalist for nine Southern California Journalism Awards in the categories of Hard News, Local Political/Government Reporting of Homelessness or Housing, Personality Profile, Business Reporting, Business Feature, Sports Profile, Gender and Society Reporting and Criticism of Film over 1,000 words.

The finalist entries were written by Courier Publisher Lisa Friedman Bloch (Summer STYLE 2024 cover profile of Jay Leno and Bruce Meyer and Holiday STYLE 2024 cover profile of Candace Parker); COO/Executive Editor Ana Figueroa (Wine + Dine 2024 cover profile of Evan Funke and the news story, “Teacher Files Wrongful Termination Claim Against BHUSD”); former staff reporter Clara Swanson (“State to Approve the Beverly Hills Housing Element,” “One Beverly Hills Breaks Ground” and “Local Pro-Palestinian Protests Elicit Strong Response”) and film and television writer Neely Swanson. 

The winners of the California Journalism Awards will be announced at a gala on May 17 at the Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City. Winners of the 67th Annual Southern California Journalism Awards will be announced on June 22 at a ceremony at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.  

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She helped lead the Academic Decathlon team to the state level, earned top medals across subjects and conducted award-winning science research focused on food preservation. She also worked to expand sustainability efforts through City Greens, BHHS’s hydroponic gardening initiative.

In addition to her academic achievements, Kruger completed a Russian immersion program in Latvia, tutored elementary school students and served an internship at the Beverly Hills City Manager’s Office under Nancy Hunt-Coffey. 

“Karina is one of the most talented interns we have had. Her research and analytical skills are excellent. I have taught at the graduate level at both UCLA and USC and I believe that her work rivaled that of my graduate students,” Hunt-Coffey told the Courier.   

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In honoring Annenberg at the event, Disney CEO Bob Iger said, “She has all of the values of a good CEO. She’s relentlessly optimistic, which informs her innovative giving. And when the fires hit Altadena and the Palisades in January, Wallis and her team provided grants for supplies and emergency equipment for the firefighters.

Dominic Ng, Chairman and CEO of East West Bank, was named the first recipient of The Wallis Icon Award, for his leadership in philanthropy. The event was hosted by Jane Fonda. Rufus Wainwright, Kristen Bell, Katharine McPhee and David Foster and Jon Batiste performed. 

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“Jewish American Heritage Month holds a special significance for our community, and for me personally,” said Mayor Sharona Nazarian. “As a Persian Jew who immigrated to the United States from Iran, I am living the American Dream. I have been fortunate to pursue higher education, earn a professional degree and lead the city of Beverly Hills as Mayor. I am not alone. Jews from around the world have made the United States their home, and a significant Jewish population reside in Beverly Hills. Jewish Americans are making remarkable contributions to the history and culture in our city, enriching it in so many ways.”

The JAHM Kickoff Celebration takes place at the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market on May 4 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Festivities will include a Rugelach Baking Contest and Gondi/Matzo Ball Soup Contest, hands-on tzedakah-box making hosted by the Skirball Cultural Center, a stop-motion animation workshop with artists Joanna Neborsky and Patricia Luna, and a family-friendly klezmer set with fan-favorites, Mostly Kosher.  Entry application for the Rugelach and Gondi/Matzo Ball Soup contests are available online at www.beverlyhills.org/csevents. 

Additional events throughout the month include:

Jewish Tales of Wonder, Wit and Wisdom with Karen Golden

May 15 at 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Beverly Hills Public Library 

Storyteller Karen Golden weaves tales, both old and new, for the young and young at heart. 

Lebensraum—A Staged Reading Presented by West Coast Jewish Theatre 

May 15 at 6:30 p.m.

Greystone Theatre at Greystone Mansion & Gardens

An evening of compelling performances that reflect Jewish themes and cultural narratives.

The Jewish American Foodie: A Conversation  

May 19 at 6:30 p.m. 

Municipal Gallery, Beverly Hills City Hall 

Restaurateur Harry Posner, food writer Tannaz Sassooni and Good Food producer Elina Shatkin take part in a conversation exploring the flavors of Iranian-American cuisine and its cultural significance in Southern California.

In addition to these events, a series of films will be shown each Thursday in May at 1 p.m. at Roxbury Park Community Center about stories that explore Jewish themes and cultures, offering a cinematic celebration of heritage. 

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Beginning on April 14, utility customers must go to www.beverlyhills.org/WaterSmart to view and pay utility bills online, including water, stormwater, refuse and sewer charges. In addition, customers can track their water use, set up personalized notifications to monitor usage, and get customized instructions for ongoing water savings. Notifications will include alerts for continuous flow from leaks or running faucets.

Customers with a Beverly Hills account will have access and can log in using their email address and password. Customers without a Beverly Hills account will need to register for the new platform. Detailed instructions on how to sign up are available at www.beverlyhills.org/WaterSmartTips. 

City staff is available to assist Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and on Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additional help is available by emailing AskBH@beverlyhills.org or calling 310-285-1000. 

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Talent Show Results included first place winner, Back in Autumn Band, featuring Morgan Stern, Jake Rubel, Cooper Fink, and Hannah Thurston. Alina Sansyzbay came in second place and Remy Javidzad was awarded third place and the People’s Choice Award.

“The Talent Show is a great example of students leading with purpose and passion,” said BHHS Assistant Principal Kim Decatrel. “It’s inspiring to see them out on stage, taking a risk to share their talents. Enthusiastic and supportive audience participation centered the bonds between Normans and warmed the hearts of all in attendance.”

This year’s event not only highlighted student performance but also celebrated collaboration across campuses.  

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“This event was about helping students take the next step with confidence,” said BHHS Principal Drew Stewart. “We want every student to feel informed, inspired, and supported as they look ahead to life after high school.”

The fair included a wide variety of institutions, including public and private universities, liberal arts colleges, and out-of-state schools. College representatives were available throughout the day to answer questions, provide materials, and support students on their journey toward higher education. 

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DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of DUI checkpoints is to promote public safety by taking suspected impaired drivers off the road.

“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Chief Mark G. Stainbrook said. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves traffic safety.”

The BHPD reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal. Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license. Funding for impaired driving enforcement operations are provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

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Ladell Tharpe, 39, pleaded guilty in September 2024 to one count of interference with commerce by robbery, known as a federal Hobbs Act crime, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Along with the prison term, U.S. District Judge George H. Wu ordered
Tharpe to pay almost $2.7 million in restitution.

On March 23, 2022, Tharpe, Deshon Bell, 22, of Long Beach, and Jimmy Lee Vernon III, 33, also of Long Beach, along with others,  committed a robbery of the Luxury Jewels of Beverly Hills store. Vernon used heavy tools to smash the store’s display case while employees were present, prosecutors said. Meanwhile, Tharpe led cars used to transport the robbers and the
getaway vehicle to the location. Bell was one of the getaway drivers. Tharpe also conducted surveillance and acted as the lookout for the robbers, papers filed in Los Angeles federal court show.

Vernon removed jewelry and other items from the store valued at nearly $2.7 million. The merchandise consisted of roughly 19 bracelets, seven pairs of earrings, four necklaces, a pair of obelisks, eight rings and 20 watches, documents state. After the robbery, Vernon and his accomplices ran out of the store, leaving behind their Kia vehicle, which had been reported stolen out of Long Beach four days before the robbery, documents show. 

During the heist, Vernon’s cell phone fell out of his pocket while he smashed the store’s window and was later recovered by law enforcement, according to an affidavit filed in L.A. federal court. Two days after the robbery, Tharpe posted on his Instagram account numerous photographs that included large stacks of money and a message praising his “robbery gang,” court documents state. Bell and Vernon each pleaded guilty to one count of Hobbs Act robbery. Wu sentenced Bell to a year and a day in federal prison in February 2024, as well as ordering him to pay almost $2.7 million in restitution. Vernon was sentenced last month to six years and eight months in prison and was also ordered to repay $2.7 million in restitution.

City News Service, Inc.

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Jamer Mauricio Sepulveda Salazar, 22, of Colombia entered a plea in downtown Los Angeles to one count of interference with commerce by robbery, known as a federal Hobbs Act crime, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Sentencing is scheduled for July 14. A co-defendant, Jesus Eduardo Padron Rojas, 19, of Venezuela currently faces trial next month. 

It remains a mystery as to how the defendants came into possession of a handgun registered to Christopher Dorner, a former LAPD officer who killed four people before dying at the end of a standoff with police 12 years ago. 

The suspected robbers are believed to be part of a “crime tourism” group composed of foreign nationals who travel to the United States to engage in high-value theft. The robbery on the afternoon of Aug. 7, 2024, targeted a watch worn by a British tourist sitting with his wife and two daughters on the patio of the hotel cafe. 

Prosecutors said one of the suspects approached and pointed a black semi-automatic handgun at the victim and pulled back the slide of the handgun, chambering a round. While the first suspect held the victim at gunpoint, the second suspect approached and snatched the silver Patek Philippe watch, estimated to be worth $1 million, from the victim’s wrist, prosecutors said.

The watch was later recovered in Miami following an investigation into a separate watch theft that took place in Florida months earlier. Both suspects then left the scene and eventually entered a blue Toyota Corolla, with Sepulveda allegedly serving as the getaway driver, according to papers filed in Los Angeles federal court.

Law enforcement executed a search warrant at an Airbnb in Exposition Park where the defendants were reported to have stayed. During the search, officers found a Glock handgun registered to Dorner. Later that day, authorities conducted a traffic stop on a Chevrolet Equinox and identified Sepulveda and Padron inside the vehicle, according to court papers. 

The U.S. Attorney’s Office believes the Equinox was involved in a previous armed robbery in the 400 block of Doheny Road in Beverly Hills on Aug. 5, 2024, during which a $30,000 Rolex was stolen. 

City News Service, Inc. 

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Those interested are encouraged to take part in the city’s Request for Proposal (RFP) process, submitting their conceptual ideas as well as additional information to support the design. Work will be chosen based on the design, project approach and prior experience. The RFP application will be open through May 16, 2025.

To help facilitate the design process, the city is also actively recruiting professional/ technical advisors to be part of an Advisory Committee that will work closely with city staff to ultimately present a chosen design to City Council for approval. 

As part of the selection process, the public will also be given an opportunity to present feedback on designs. 

The Committee will consist of Mayor Friedman, Vice Mayor Nazarian, five Council-appointed members and two to three technical/professional advisors. Committee appointments will be for a one-year term on a volunteer, non-paid basis. 

To apply for the Advisory Committee before its deadline of April 4, 2025, visit beverlyhills.org/applyforacommission or contact the City Clerk’s office at 310-285-2400. 

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Schwartz has been deeply engaged with The Foundation for 25 years, actively contributing financial acumen and strategic expertise to its grantmaking initiatives and investment management. He has served in multiple leadership capacities, including on Foundation grants, executive and finance committees. As a seasoned entrepreneur with a background in venture capital and business leadership, Schwartz brings an experience that will strengthen The Foundation’s focus on innovative philanthropy and impactful grantmaking.

“For many years, The Foundation has been a trusted partner in my family’s philanthropy,” said Schwartz. “It is an honor to step into this role and help guide an organization that is deeply committed to strengthening the Jewish community in Los Angeles and the community at large. Having been involved in The Foundation’s grantmaking and financial stewardship for more than two decades, I look forward to continuing to grow The Foundation and expand its impact throughout our community and in Israel.”

Schwartz and his wife, Lisa, a city of Beverly Hills Commissioner, are strongly committed to tikkun olam, the Jewish value of repairing the world. Together, they support numerous charitable initiatives, spanning Jewish causes, Israeli organizations, and broader community endeavors. 

Aaron Lerner, president and CEO of The Foundation, welcomed Schwartz’s appointment, stating, “Mark’s entrepreneurial spirit, strategic vision, and deep commitment to philanthropy make him an exceptional lay leader for The Foundation’s next chapter. His expertise in financial stewardship and community engagement will help propel our mission forward, ensuring that we continue to make a meaningful and lasting impact in our Jewish community and beyond.”

The Foundation, which has been at the forefront of Jewish philanthropy in Los Angeles for more than 70 years, distributed over $200 million in grants in 2024 to more than 3,600 nonprofits locally, nationally, and in Israel. Under Schwartz’s leadership, the organization plans to further its mission of empowering Jewish philanthropists and strengthening the community. 

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Led by professional docents, the guided tours are designed to engage visitors of all ages in the rich stories and artistic significance of the sculptures that enhance the park. At the conclusion of each tour, participants will receive a special keepsake to commemorate their experience.

Location:  Beverly Gardens Park, 1300 Park Way, Beverly Hills

Dates:  March 9, 23, April 13, 27

Time: 10:30 a.m.

Tickets: $10

 For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.beverlyhills.org/csevents. 

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District leaders, cabinet members, fellow principals, family, and colleagues surprised Kaber with the announcement during El Rodeo Elementary’s weekly assembly. “Sarah Kaber is an extraordinary leader who has transformed El Rodeo Elementary School into a model of Educational Excellence,” said Superintendent Dr. Michael Bregy. “Her unwavering dedication to student achievement, innovative approach to instruction and steadfast commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive school culture make her truly deserving of this honor. It is a privilege to work alongside such an inspiring leader,” he said. 

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Both aerial and ground attacks were used, enabling firefighters to control the hillside flames against light winds. The fire prompted an evacuation warning for the residents south of the 1500 block of Casiano Road, north of Moraga Drive, east of Sepulveda Boulevard and west of Chalon Road, Stewart said. Those evacuation warning were lifted at 2 a.m. on Jan. 23.

City News Service, Inc. 

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“It is with deep regret that we, his family, announce the passing of the man and the artist, David Lynch,” the family wrote on Facebook. “We would appreciate some privacy at this time. There’s a big hole in the world now that he’s no longer with us. But, as he would say, ‘Keep your eye on the donut and not on the hole.’ It’s a beautiful day with golden sunshine and blue skies all the way.”

No cause of death was released. Last year, Lynch told a British magazine that he would have to retire from filmmaking due to health reasons, saying he had “gotten emphysema from smoking for so long” and he did not want to leave his home and possibly be exposed to COVID-19. 

Lynch was nominated for writing and directing Oscars for 1980’s “The Elephant Man.” He received two more Best Director nominations for “Blue Velvet” and “Mulholland Drive.”  He received an honorary Oscar in 2020.

Born in Montana, Lynch gained attention in the 1970s with his noir classic “Eraserhead,” which led to his breakthrough work on “The Elephant Man.” His follow-up to that film was 1984’s ambitious yet poorly received adaptation of Frank Herbert’s novel “Dune,” which starred a then-unknown actor named Kyle MacLachlan.

Lynch rebounded in 1986 with “Blue Velvet,” also starring MacLachlan along with Dennis Hopper and Laura Dern.

He made a major splash with the 1989 cable murder-mystery series “Twin Peaks,” again enlisting MacLachlan as an odd FBI agent investigating the killing of a teenage girl in a fictitious small town.  He went on to direct films including “Lost Highway,”  “Mulholland Drive,”  “The Straight Story” and “Inland Empire.”

Actor/director Ron Howard responded to Lynch’s death Thursday, writing on X that Lynch was “a gracious man and fearless artist who followed his heart and soul proved that radical experimentation could yield unforgettable cinema.”

City News Service 

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The Justice for Erik and Lyle Coalition included more than 20 members of Jose and Kitty Menendez’s family, who organizers said are united in their support for a new sentence that “reflects Erik and Lyle’s abuse, trauma, and demonstrated rehabilitation over the last 35 years.”

Former District Attorney George Gascón had expressed support for resentencing, but Hochman has not yet said whether he will take a similar position, saying he wants the chance to review the voluminous evidence before making a decision.

Following the meeting, which lasted roughly three hours, Hochman called the discussion “productive.”

“It was a very productive session where they gave me all their thoughts about what should happen in this case, their experiences that they wanted to share, the ultimate direction that they wanted this case to go,”

Hochman told reporters. “It was a very productive conversation over a number of hours. Again, I invite, I continue to invite any additional family member … to speak with me, and that forms part of the data set that we will use to determine what the right result should be.”

Hochman noted that he and a team of prosecutors are still reviewing thousands of pages of prison records and transcripts from the brothers’ two trials and appellate court proceedings, and no decision has been made on whether he will support an effort to have their sentences reduced from life without the possibility of parole to a term that might allow them to seek parole. A hearing on the possible resentencing remains scheduled for Jan. 30 and Jan. 31.

After initially canceling plans for a post-meeting news conference, members of the Menendez family ultimately decided to appear before TV cameras briefly to discuss their talk with Hochman. Anamaria Baralt, a niece of Jose Menendez, said the group was grateful for Hochman’s time meeting with them. She said the family is hoping a judge will agree to an immediate reduction of the brothers’ conviction to a lesser charge of manslaughter, which would potentially enable them to be released without the need for extensive parole hearings.

“This 35-year process has been incredibly traumatizing for us, as I’m sure you can all imagine,” Baralt said. “We are very much hoping that we can find a path to manslaughter. That we can see the release of the brothers immediately. To understand that going to a parole board for our family will only serve to retraumatize us more. Two parole boards. Two brothers, again with victim statements. We have had enough. It is a lot. Thirty-five years is a very long time. So we hope that will happen.”

Attorneys for the brothers are pursuing various avenues in hopes of securing their release from prison, contending that new evidence backs the brothers’ claims that they were sexually abused by their father. The pair were convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to life without the chance of parole for killing Jose and Mary Louise “Kitty” Menendez at their home in Beverly Hills on Aug. 20, 1989. 

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“Our office’s Sex Crimes Division is working diligently to bring justice to the victim in this case,” Hochman said in a statement. “The case remains under investigation, and we encourage anyone with information about the defendant or similar incidents to contact the Los Angeles Police Department.”

The felony charges include rape by use of drugs and rape of an unconscious or asleep person. Hajhosseini was arrested on Nov. 26 by the Los Angeles Police Department and pled not guilty to all charges on Dec. 27. A preliminary hearing setting is scheduled for Feb. 13. He is currently out on a $2,175,000 bond.

If convicted as charged, Hajhosseini faces a maximum sentence of 34 years in prison.

Additional victims or anyone with information are asked to contact Detective Esther Lee, LAPD West Bureau, at 213-473-0447. 

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Residential streets surrounding the venue will be posted with no-parking signs. For more information on the complete list of closures, visit beverlyhills.org/goldenglobes.

Curb lane closures will begin on North Santa Monica Boulevard at 10 p.m. on Dec. 29 and continue through 5 p.m. on Jan. 8. Full sidewalk and street closures will begin at 9 p.m. on Jan. 3 and continue through 5 a.m. on Jan. 6. 

Lane reductions will begin on Wilshire Boulevard at 9 p.m. on Jan 4. Full lane closures will begin at 5 a.m. on Jan. 5 and continue through 5 a.m. on Jan. 6. 

Additionally, limited closures will be in effect on select streets from 5 a.m. on Jan. 5 through 5 a.m. on Jan. 6. Parking will also be completely restricted during that time period on portions of Whittier Drive, Carmelita Avenue, Elevado Avenue, Trenton Drive, Walden Drive and Lomitas Avenue. 

Residents without permit parking can obtain a parking exemption by contacting the city’s Parking Exemption Line at 310-285-2548 or online at beverlyhills.org/parkingexemptions.

For questions and concerns before the day of the event, call the askBH Customer Service line at 310-285-1000 from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Monday–Friday and the after-hours Golden Globes Hotline that will be active on Jan. 5 from 2 p.m.– 8 p.m. at 310-550-4680.  

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According to the BHPD, officers  responded to a report of a possible assault with a deadly weapon at the restaurant around 10 p.m. on Dec. 13. Lieutenant Andrew Myers of the BHPD told the Courier,  “During the initial investigation there was insufficient information to establish an aggravated assault occurred. Later, investigators determined that during the altercation Foxx was struck with a drinking glass resulting in injury. The report was later upgraded to an aggravated assault.” 

Myers said that the department is interviewing witnesses and is “trying to determine who is involved, but we don’t know who they work for.”

The Oscar-winning Foxx turned 57 on Dec. 13. Foxx recently revealed that a stroke had led to his hospitalization in April 2023. “Someone from another table threw a glass that hit him in the mouth,” a spokesperson for the actor said in a statement to The Los Angeles Times. “He had to get stitches and is recovering. The police were called, and the matter is now in law enforcement’s hands.”

The Courier spoke to one person who said they witnessed the event. The witness claims that the altercation was between Foxx’s party and crew members of Dickhouse Productions, the production company best known for producing “Jackass” as well as its numerous spinoffs. As of press time, the production company has not responded to the Courier’s attempts for comment.  

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Oscar, Golden Globe and multi-Grammy award winning Lionel Richie was honored with the Hollywood Icon Award by Cedars-Sinai Chair of Neurosurgery Dr. Keith Black. And The Humanitarian Award was presented to Daniele and Arthur J. Ochoa. 

Women’s Guild has raised over $70 million for Cedars-Sinai. Their projects include the Women’s Guild Simulation Center for Advanced Clinical Skills; the Women’s Guild Lung Institute; the Saul and Joyce Brandman Breast Center-A Project of Women’s Guild; the Women’s Guild Endowed Chair in Gastroenterology, held by Dr. Shelly Lu; and the Women’s Guild Distinguished Chair in Neurology, held by Dr. Nancy Sicotte. They just completed a $10 million campaign for the Women’s Guild Neurology Project, whose efforts have propelled Cedars-Sinai to the forefront in treating Parkinson’s, ALS, Stroke, and Alzheimer’s, they have committed to raising another $5 million for Neurology; and Cedars-Sinai’s newest expansion, Guerin Children’s where they will endow a $5 million Distinguished Chair in Pediatrics to Shervin Rabizadeh, MD, MBA. 

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“Once again, another atrocious, heinous act has shaken those around the world who celebrate their Jewish heritage. Rabbi Zvi Kogan did not deserve to leave this earth in such a barbaric way and we must continue to stand strong against antisemitism and hatred of all kind,” said Friedman.  

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 Since joining BHPD in 2022, Nami has been a source of comfort and joy for both the Department and the Beverly Hills community. Her name, an acronym for the National Alliance on Mental Illness, reflects her mission of bringing calm to stressful situations and connecting with those in need. The BHPD supports a vote for Nami for a number of reasons, including:

• Critical Incident Support: Nami provides a comforting presence in times of crisis and completes 16 hours of support training each month. Recently, she offered invaluable support to first responders after a particularly challenging incident, helping them process their experiences.

• Community Engagement: Whether at Coffee with a Cop or National Night Out, Nami strengthens bonds between BHPD and the community.

• Literacy Promotion: Nami inspires children to read through Beverly Hills Public Library events like Nami Storytime and the upcoming Winter Tails with Nami (Dec. 13).

• Youth Empowerment: Nami has empowered young participants at the Beverly Hills Fire Department Girls Empowerment Camp and even served as a guest judge at the City of Acton’s 4th of July Parade.

Nami is a certified American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen and AKC Community Canine and is recognized by the National Association of First Responders Support K-9s. She is also training to provide support to security teams and athletes during the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles.

 The winner of the award will receive, among other things, a charitable cash donation in their honor and a $2,000 check in support of their work. Votes can be cast at https://fherehab.com/first-responder-paws-award.  

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“We are grateful to receive this grant, which will strengthen our traffic enforcement efforts and improve road safety,” said Beverly Hills Police Chief Mark Stainbrook. “By increasing enforcement of traffic laws and focusing on high-risk areas, we aim to reduce dangerous driving behaviors, prevent crashes, and make our roads safer for everyone.”

The grant will fund several additional programs and resources, including:

• DUI checkpoints and patrols targeting suspected impaired drivers.

• High visibility distracted driving enforcement operations target drivers violating California’s hands-free cell phone law.

• Enforcement operations focused on dangerous driving behaviors that threaten the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians.

• Enforcement operations targeting the top crash-causing violations: speeding, failure to yield, stop sign and red-light running, and improper turning or lane changes.

• Community presentations on traffic safety topics such as distracted driving, impaired driving, speeding, and bicycle and pedestrian safety.

• Officer training and recertification for the Standard Field Sobriety Test, Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement, and Drug Recognition Expert programs.

The program was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 

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Under the leadership of Chief Mark G. Stainbrook and Lt. Todd Withers, the BHPD Drone Team has demonstrated both creativity and efficiency in incorporating drones into their daily operations. Their Drone as First Responder (DFR) Program, officially launched in 2021, has become a model of excellence, with proactive drone flights that support patrol operations, responding to incidents faster and more effectively than traditional methods. To date, the program has completed over 13,000 flights, with more than 6,000 of those being first on the scene.

The success of BHPD’s drone program is attributed to its innovative approach, which includes three levels of drone deployment: the DFR Program, Rapid Deployment Drones for tactical support, and small Interior Drones for building and vehicle searches. This technology has played a pivotal role in safely resolving critical situations, including the apprehension of violent criminals and de-escalation of potentially dangerous incidents. 

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Launched more than 50 years ago as a small arts and crafts fair, the Beverly Hills Art Show now encompasses four blocks of Santa Monica Boulevard. It is held twice yearly, in May and October. For more information visit beverlyhills.org/artshow or call 310-285-1000. 

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“Our Fire Department’s Empowerment Camp is the perfect way to experience firsthand how important teamwork is when responding to emergencies,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Lester Friedman. “This intensive two-day course will open anyone’s eyes up to how hard our first responders work each and every day and will hopefully inspire those to choose that career path.”

The camp will be held in person at the Beverly Hills Fire Department at 445 N. Rexford Dr., Beverly Hills. 

“Hopefully, after spending time at our camp, we will inspire our next generation to join the ranks of the Beverly Hills Fire Department in the years ahead,” said Melissa Hillis, BHFD Fire Engineer.

Registration for residents and non-residents is free and has officially opened. To sign-up, visit beverlyhills.org/empowermentcamp. 

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The ambulances drove throughout Los Angeles, visiting all three WBT campuses for hundreds of children to explore and learn. They also made a stop at the October 7th Memorial Square in Beverly Hills. In the evening, approximately 300 community members attended an evening commemoration, which featured songs and prayers as well as remarks by WBT Senior Rabbi Joel Nickerson, MDA Director of International Relations Yoni Yagodovsky, actress Ginnifer Goodwin and congregants.

Yagodovsky shared insight into the work of Magen David Adom and first responders in Israel immediately following the attacks and in the year since then. 

 “Magen David Adom ambulances are the most important platform for us, not only to reach patients, but to also assess their medical condition, provide the necessary treatment, and rapidly evacuate them to hospitals while simultaneously informing the hospital of the patients’ condition, ensuring continuity of care during a short yet critical period. The fact that these ambulances are donated by American donors creates a human bond; it’s a unique relationship, because people in Los Angeles are thinking about the welfare and needs of the people in Israel. We are the messengers; donors provide the means through which we lend a helping hand and reach out to assist those in need. We are able to transform the positive intentions of the donors into life-saving action,” said Yagodovsky.

Nickerson added, “In such a challenging time for the Jewish people and for our brothers and sisters in Israel, it was important for us to mark the one year anniversary with opportunities for people to come together, find comfort in their connection to the Jewish community, and highlight the tangible ways we can show our support for Israelis who have suffered the consequences of the horrific attack on Oct. 7. We also wanted to remind our community that despite the challenges we face, we never give up on hope and prayers for peace.” 

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“George was a towering figure in our profession,” said Edward H. Phillips, M.D., executive vice chair of the Jim and Eleanor Randall Department of Surgery. “His profound legacy lives on in the hundreds—if not thousands—of medical students and surgeons influenced by his innovations and ideas.”

Berci’s designs and use of micro-instrumentation—including fiber optic-based lighting and cameras—paved the way for the development of endoscopic and laparoscopic surgery.

Berci’s influence and achievement in the field are all the more extraordinary given that medicine was not his primary passion during his formative years. The son of the assistant conductor of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra, Berci showed considerable promise as a violinist and could play concertos by age 10.

Berci’s professional path was stalled by the outbreak of World War II, when he was forced to work as a laborer for the Nazis.

“Unfortunately, I had a terrible early life in respect to being a Jew,” said Berci, who often shared his story of survival with student groups at the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles.

In the summer of 1944, Berci and hundreds of other conscripted Jewish laborers were packed onto a train destined for the death camps. The train stopped near the Hungarian capital during an air bombardment by British and American forces, which caused guards to flee.

“Everybody disappeared,” Berci recalled. “So, we disappeared, too.”

Soon Berci was recruited to work for the Hungarian underground and became part of a large-scale operation of forging papers. The network was organized by the Swiss Vice-Consul Carl Lutz, who helped save thousands of Hungarian Jews by issuing false protective letters.

After the war, Berci remained in Hungary and earned a medical degree from the University of Szeged in 1950. He continued surgical training before moving in 1953 to Budapest, where he helped establish an experimental surgical division. In 1957, Berci, who did not then speak English, moved to Australia after being awarded a Rockefeller Foundation fellowship in the Alfred and Royal Melbourne hospitals. In 1967, he was recruited to join the Cedars-Sinai Department of Surgery. Several years later he joined the faculty as full-time director of a multidisciplinary surgical endoscopy unit, a new idea at the time.

Berci’s vast contributions to medicine brought him significant acclaim, including Cedars-Sinai’s Pioneer in Medicine Award and the Jacobson Innovation Award from the American College of Surgeons.

He is survived by four children and six grandchildren.

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Lt. Kim has been pivotal in developing and integrating cutting-edge technologies that enhance public safety and investigative operations. His commitment to innovation has ensured that BHPD is equipped with the most advanced tools for real-time crime monitoring, benefiting the city of Beverly Hills and neighboring agencies. Lt. Kim’s efforts have extended beyond local collaborations, with extensive travel across the U.S. and internationally, including serving as a keynote speaker in Warsaw, Poland. His global outreach and technical expertise have solidified his position as a thought leader in bridging technology and investigations.

“Lieutenant Kim’s dedication and vision have set new standards for integrating technology in policing, not just in Beverly Hills but across Southern California,” said Chief of Police Mark G. Stainbrook. “This award is a testament to his tireless work and our Department’s commitment to being at the forefront of public safety innovation.”

Under Lt. Kim’s leadership, the RTWC has become a nationwide model for real-time crime centers. The center’s success stems from the collaborative efforts of Virtual Patrol Officers monitoring over 2,500 surveillance cameras around the clock, crime analysts who provide critical data to guide patrol strategies, and the innovative Drone First Responder program. These integrated components have significantly advanced BHPD’s ability to respond to crimes in progress and conduct follow-up investigations.

In addition to Lt. Kim’s recognition, the BHPD was nominated for the Real-Time Crime Center of the Year and National Real-Time Crime Center Association Member of the Year awards, further solidifying the Department’s reputation as a law enforcement technology and innovation leader.

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The author discussion will be moderated by Julie Goler and will include an audience Q & A. Beverly Hills Reads! is presented by the City of Beverly Hills Community Services Department and Human Relations Commission, in partnership with the Beverly Hills United School District (BHUSD) and the Beverly Hills Education Foundation.  The initiative aims to inspire and celebrate reading among individuals of all ages.

“We are fortunate to have partners in this city that come together to foster a love for literature that brings community together through meaningful conversations,” said Beverly Hills Mayor, Lester Friedman. “Reading has the power to inspire, educate and unite us all.”

“We Were the Lucky Ones,” is a powerful, fictionalized account based on a true story of a Jewish family’s determination to survive and reunite after being separated during World War II.

Digital and hard copies of the book are available through the Beverly Hills Public Library.

Registration is required and may be done by visiting bhusd.org/beverlyhillsreads.

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Twelve sirens have been placed strategically around the city to ensure maximum sound coverage for outdoor emergency notifications. When activated, audible tones will be heard in multiple languages announcing approaching danger and whether the community needs to evacuate.

“Southern California is prone to a variety of natural disasters, and we want to ensure our community gets the information they need quickly,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Lester Friedman. “These sirens are just another valuable resource we plan to use as part of our extensive notification program when extreme danger is near.”

Throughout the year, the city will also be testing the sirens periodically to ensure they are operating successfully.

The first test will take place on Sept. 29 in collaboration with the “Just in Case, BH” event held at Roxbury Park. At 3:15 p.m., three sirens located at Roxbury Park, La Cienega Park and Beverly Hills Fire Station 3 will be activated for a few minutes with an audible test message.

The city’s large, full-scale test of all 12 sirens will take place the following month, on Oct. 17 at 10:30 a.m. to coincide with the nationwide emergency campaign, the Great ShakeOut. No action will be required from the community during these two tests.

To view a map of the siren locations and to learn more about the OWS, visit beverlyhills.org/outdoorwarning.

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Hosted by the city of Beverly Hills in the Next Beverly Hills Committee, the event will feature live music and entertainment, as well as numerous food options. Businesses along South Beverly Drive will also be offering unique experiences and promotions throughout the evening.

“Once again we are excited to bring back our annual Next Night Street Festival that always brings our community together for an evening of great food and entertainment,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Lester Friedman. “This year’s lineup will keep everyone on their feet, singing and dancing to some classics.”

NEXT NIGHT performers include English ‘80s band Bow Wow Wow Starring Annabella known for their iconic songs “I Want Candy” and “Wild In The Country,” and renowned ABBA theatrical tribute band, The Fabba Show. Plus, very special guest DJ, Zen Freeman, direct from his Las Vegas Club residency will be spinning throughout the night.

The festival will begin on the 200 block of South Beverly Drive and there will be a full street closure between Charleville Drive and Gregory Way taking place from 6 p.m. on Sept. 27 through 4 p.m. on  Sept. 29.

For a full list of activities and more information, visit beverlyhills.org/NEXTNIGHT.

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On July 25, the Hon. James Chalfant denied the writ petition filed by the group “Public Land for Public Use.”

The writ petition alleged that the city violated the Surplus Land Act by declaring city-owned property on Foothill Road to be surplus as defined in the Surplus Land Act. The petition also alleged that the city violated the Brown Act based on the agenda description and placement on the consent calendar for this item. Finally, the petitioner also alleged that due process rights were violated based on the agenda issues and purported lack of notice to the public.

The court concluded that as to the Surplus Land Act issue, there was no cognizable cause of action resulting from the City Council declaring city-owned land to be surplus—a first step towards, but not a final action on, any lease.  In addition, even if there was a cause of action, the court found that the city’s findings to support the declaration were sufficient and that the city does not have a policy or procedure requiring public outreach prior to declaring land surplus.

On the Brown Act cause of action, the court found that the agenda item substantially complied with the Brown Act and provided enough evidence for a reader to understand the import of the matter before the City Council.

“We are very pleased with the court’s decision,” said Beverly Hills City Attorney Larry Wiener.  “We have always maintained that the city handled this matter properly and that this case was without merit.”

The city is entitled to recover its costs from the petitioner.

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The four-part gardening series for adults includes the following workshops:  How to Grow a Winter Vegetable Garden, Sept. 8; How to Grow an Herb, Spice and Tea Garden, Sept. 22; Indoor Gardening – How to Take Care of Your Houseplants, Oct. 27, and The Birds of Greystone, Nov. 3.  

Those who sign up for the four-part series will get four classes for the price of three. Individual classes are $19 each ($15 for Beverly Hills residents).  Also, there is still space available for the final summer gardening class, How to Grow a Pollination Garden, on Aug. 25. 

A Children’s Gardening Workshop takes place on Oct. 6. The class will teach children basic gardening, including seasonal activities such as seed starting, soil prep, transplanting and harvesting fresh produce.

Additionally, all are welcome for the Saturday Morning Garden Club on Nov. 2 at 8:30 a.m. Volunteers will help with garden and grounds maintenance. Registration is required to volunteer at the Demonstration Garden, and for all gardening classes.  Register at beverlyhills.org/bhrec, and click on the Greystone Park tab.  

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After graduating Phi Beta Kappa from Brooklyn College, Sol began his career in education as a high school history teacher at Jefferson. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the department chair in social studies at Canarsie High School and one of the youngest principals in the New York City school system at John Dewey High School. Sol’s reputation as an educator and leader grew nationally, leading to his selection as the principal of Beverly Hills High School in 1977. Twelve years later, Sol was elevated to the position of Superintendent of Schools, a role he held for eight years, twice as long as his predecessors.

In addition to his educational achievements, Sol was a talented musician and band leader. He played the trumpet in his band, “Sol Levine and His Continentals,” alongside his saxophone-playing brother Jack. The band delighted audiences at numerous events, concerts, and dance halls throughout the 1950s to 1970s, bringing the big band sound to life. Sol’s love for music was matched only by his passion for his family. He was a devoted husband to Marilyn, with whom he recently celebrated their 71st wedding anniversary, a loving father to three daughters, a cherished grandfather to seven grandchildren, and a proud great-grandfather to 12 great-grandchildren. His family was always his number one priority, and he instilled in them the values of education, hard work, and compassion.

Sol passed away peacefully on July 30, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. His life was a testament to the power of education, community, and family. As he often quoted from his favorite poem, “Life is a Dream” by Pedro Calderón de la Barca, life is fleeting, and we must cherish every moment. Sol Levine’s legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched and the family he so deeply loved.

In honor of a true gentleman, educator, and family man, we celebrate Sol Levine’s extraordinary life and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. The funeral will take place on Aug. 4 at 2:30 p.m. at Mount Sinai Memoral Park, 6150 Mount Sinai Drive in Simi Valley.  

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Jimmy Lee Vernon III, 32, pleaded guilty to one count of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act). He has been in federal custody since September 2022.

According to the plea agreement, on March 23, 2022, Vernon committed a robbery of the Luxury Jewels of Beverly Hills store. Vernon used heavy tools to smash the store’s display case while employees were present, causing fear of injury to people inside the store.

Vernon then removed jewelry and other items from the store display cases valued at approximately $2,674,600. The merchandise consisted of approximately 19 bracelets, seven pairs of earrings, four necklaces, a pair of obelisks, eight rings, and 20 watches, court documents state.

After the robbery, Vernon and his accomplices ran out of the store, leaving behind their Kia vehicle—which had been reported stolen out of Long Beach four days before the robbery, according to other court documents. During the robbery, Vernon’s cellphone fell out of his sweatpants pocket while he smashed the jewelry’s store’s window, was left behind and later recovered by law enforcement, according to an affidavit previously filed in this case.

Two days after the robbery, one of Vernon’s accomplices posted on his Instagram account numerous photographs that included large stacks of money and a message praising his “robbery gang,” court documents state.

United States District Judge George H. Wu scheduled an October 10 sentencing hearing, at which time Vernon will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.

As for Vernon’s co-defendants, Deshon Bell, 22, of Long Beach, pleaded guilty in December 2023 to one count of Hobbs Act robbery and was sentenced on February 26 to one year and one day in federal prison. Ladell Tharpe, 39, of Long Beach, has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him and faces an October 8 trial date.

An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The FBI and the Beverly Hills Police Department investigated this matter.  

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“We have been proud to steward these buildings for the past 14 years and are grateful to the Hollywood community and patrons alike who have supported these iconic theaters,” Regency President Lyndon Golin said in a statement. “We are excited to see what the future holds for these beloved Los Angeles landmarks and look forward to their continued success.”

One of the theaters—Westwood Village—is expected to eventually reopen after a renovation project spearheaded by director Jason Reitman. The 1931-vintage theater is known for its soaring art-deco tower that looms over the area. A reopening date has not been announced. The future of the Bruin theater, which dates back to 1937, remains uncertain. The Bruin’s large, single-screen theater has seating for nearly 700 people.

Both movie houses were run by Fox theaters until 2010, when they transitioned to Mann Theatres. Regency took over operation of both theaters in 2010.

City News Service 

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Garcia, 25, was charged with a single misdemeanor count of vandalism causing $400 or more in damage, according to the District Attorney’s Office. The Porter Ranch resident was arrested around 5:15 p.m. June 8, when police were dispatched to the hotel in response to a report of an “intoxicated person,” according to Lt. Andrew Meyers of the Beverly Hills Police Department.

Investigators determined that Garcia was a guest at the hotel and had damaged a hotel room and part of a hallway, Meyers said. After he was booked at the BHPD jail, police said the 15-time national amateur champion complained of a medical issue and was taken to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center for evaluation. He is scheduled to be arraigned Aug. 7 at the Airport Branch Courthouse. He faces up to a year in jail if convicted.

“While we are grateful no injuries were reported in this incident, reckless behavior that damages property shows a blatant and unacceptable disregard for the safety and peace of our community,” District Attorney George Gascón said in a statement. “Our office will work to ensure the responsible individual is held accountable.”
  

Garcia, who was born in Victorville, is 25-1 in his professional career with 20 knockouts. He was the World Boxing Council interim lightweight champion from Jan. 2-May 24, 2021, winning the title when he stopped Luke Campbell in the seventh round, but was stripped of it after withdrawing from a planned title defense against former World Boxing Association super featherweight champion Javier Fortuna to “manage his health and well-being.”

City News Service 

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Those individuals who love gardening are encouraged to sign up for the Greystone Demonstration Gardening Club where volunteers meet to help maintain the Greystone Demonstration Garden and the grounds around it, including Pollinator Hill. The Gardening Club members will meet on July 12 and Aug. 17, from 9 -10:30  a.m. for the summer club meetups. Pre-registration is required for all classes and the Gardening Club. The address of Greystone Demonstration Garden is 905  Loma Vista Drive, Beverly Hills.  All classes are on Sundays from 10-11:30 a.m.   

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The recommendation was first presented to City Council on July 18, 2023 based on the recommendation from the Commission Standardization Ad Hoc Committee Liaisons. At that City Council Meeting, the council voted unanimously to move forward with the consolidation of the two commissions due to recruitment challenges, a shift in workload and an overlap of similar responsibilities.

To learn more about the Architectural and Design Review Commission and to view its current list of commissioners, visit beverlyhills.org/ArchitecturalandDesignReviewCommission.

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The Team Beverly Hills program will select 50 residents (30 appointed by the City Council, 18 selected by a random lottery, and two selected by the Beverly Hills Unified School District) for its upcoming class. Five representatives from the city’s business community (appointed by the City Council) will also be selected for the program, which kicks off later this year.

To learn more about Team Beverly Hills and fill out an application online, visit beverlyhills.org/teambeverlyhills or email teambh@beverlyhills.org.

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“Following the successful launch of Festival Beverly Hills last year at the Farmers’ Market, we are looking forward to being able to accommodate even more participants and community members by moving it to our iconic Beverly Gardens Parks,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Lester Friedman. “It’s imperative we continue to be a city that celebrates all cultures across the globe through immersive presentations, dance, food and more.”

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The awards were given out by the Los Angeles Press Club at its June 23 gala dinner in the Crystal Ballroom of the Millennium Biltmore Hotel. Executive Editor Ana Figueroa came in third place in the category of “Hard News, Print, Any Outlet” for her story entitled “Hostage Families Tell Their Stories in Beverly Hills.” The Courier’s Neely Swanson was a finalist in the category “Commentary/Analysis of Film All Media” for her review of the film “Oppenheimer” and Bloch was a finalist in the category of “Entertainment News or Feature” for her cover profile of Eva Longoria for the 2023 Holiday STYLE magazine.

The evening included tributes to two local television icons who passed away this year, Ruth Ashton Taylor and Sam Rubin. Additional presentations of note included the Guardian Award for First Amendment Contributions to Mickey H. Osterreicher of the National Press Photographers Association; the President’s Award for Impact on Media to Amanda Salas of FOX 11; the Bill Rosendahl Public Service Award for Contributions to Civic Life to actress and humanitarian Jane Seymour and the Joseph M. Quinn Award for Lifetime Achievement to ESPN host and commentator Stephen A. Smith.

Perhaps the most moving award of the night was the presentation of the Daniel Pearl Award for Courage and Integrity in Journalism, created in honor of the slain Wall Street Journal reporter. Presented by Daniel Pearl’s father Judea, the award was given in absentia to the Wall Street Journal’s Evan Gershkovich. Wrongfully detained while reporting in Russia more than a year ago, Gershkovich is on trial this week for espionage in a closed proceeding in Russia. The trial is taking 900 miles from Moscow in Yekaterinburg, infamous as the city where Czar Nicholas II and his family were exiled and later executed in 1918. If convicted, Gershkovich faces 20 years in prison. The Wall Street Journal’s Assistant Editor Paul Beckett accepted the award on Gershkovich’s behalf, decrying the treatment of his colleague and encouraging everyone to join in pressuring U.S. government officials for his release.

It was a strong reminder that the rights of journalists remain threatened throughout the world. And the editorial excellence recognized during the evening was a robust reminder of the influence and importance of strong local journalism.

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The generous grant will support more of the social service projects for children that Presburger notably spearheads.

“I am so grateful to everyone in this community, and especially to my Rotary Club,” Presburger told the Courier. “This was a very unexpected surprise. However, several of my fellow Rotary members pointed out that with this award I can go forward and ask the community to give even more, and my fellow Rotarians will help me distribute ‘the spoils’ amongst all the children we love to support.” 

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Twenty-four contestants entered. The first place winner, title of “Best Tasting Pie in Beverly Hills” and $200 Farmers’ Market money was awarded to Xander Eisen for his Chocolate Banana Cream Pie. The second place winner, along with $100 Farmers’ Market money, was awarded to Debbie Soroudi Kaen for her Apple Pie. Third place and $50 Farmers’ Market money was awarded to Kevin Brown for his Boysenberry Pie. And the most “Pie-utiful” and $50 Farmers’ Market money went to Julie Huff for her Pearls Apple Pie. Judges for the pie contest were Vice Mayor Sharona Nazarian, Councilmembers John Mirisch and Craig Corman, and Recreation and Parks Commissioners JR Dzubak and Tara Riceberg. 

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“With all the chaos, division and uncertainty around us, it’s more important than ever toacknowledge and talk about things. It’s OK to not be OK. We need the tools and guidance to navigate, and who better than the Maple Counseling Center to provide those skills?” said Beverly Hills Vice Mayor Sharona Nazarian.

The ribbon tying ceremony, a symbolic gesture representing a united commitment to community and mental wellness, was performed by community leaders and members including L.A. City Councilwoman Heather Hutt, Dr. Etsmaye Agonafer, Amanda Laflen, Field Deputy, Metro West for L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, among others.

The Chief Executive Officer of Maple Counseling Center, Varina Bleil, expressed her appreciation for the support. “Our ribbon-tying event served as a unifying force within the community as we celebrated the opening of our new clinic. We’re thrilled to further extend access to quality mental health care to all Angelenos through our new facility.”

Attendees were treated to remarks from Maple Counseling CEO Varina Bleil, as well as event chairs Deborah Kallick and Rex Wilder. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed food, beverages, and guided tours of the clinic, showcasing its state-of-the-art facilities and services.

The Briskin | Wilder Welcome Center will provide free personalized guidance from licensed practitioners, ensuring that all Angelenos find appropriate and affordable quality mental health care. Supported by philanthropist Judy Briskin and her son Rex Wilder, Chair of Maple Counseling’s Board of Directors, the BWWC has served over 3,000 individuals since its inception in 2022. For more information, visit https://www.maple4counseling.org/programs-and-services/briskin-wilder-welcome-center. 

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The Amended and Restated Executive Employee Compensation Plan covers Department Directors, Assistant Department Directors and Senior Management level employees. Compensation and benefits for these employees are established in the Compensation Plan, as approved by the City Council. 

The proposed modifications do not incur additional costs and only address the addition and removal of several staff classifications due to reorganization.

Although not required per the city’s labor relations ordinance (Beverly Hills Municipal Code, Article 5 Section 2-5-503-B), as is the case with the city’s represented employee groups, the Executive Employee Compensation Plan’s proposed amendments were posted on the city’s website at www.beverlyhills.org/executives on June 4, two weeks before the scheduled City Council meeting. 

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Studio C features restored sound panels from Beverly Vista Middle School, repurposed furniture and professional-grade recording equipment donated by community partners. The studio has already become a hub for student-created podcasts and shows, reflecting high demand for creative outlets.

“Studio C was a dream that turned into a reality thanks to the unwavering support of our school and community,” said Gilardian. The studio also serves as a memorial to Sheila Willis, a beloved BHHS custodian who passed away earlier this year. 

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“The director, which is me, and the coaches and the actual kids came together and formed a really good team system that was built for winning this championship,” Athletic Director Todd Radonsky told the Courier. BVMS played against Lincoln Middle School in the game on May 23, securing their win with shootouts after a 0-0 tie. 

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In a communication to the BHUSD community on May 29, Superintendent Dr. Michael Bregy noted, “Mrs. Dar’s professional career has deep roots in BHUSD history. An alumna of Hawthorne and Beverly Hills High School (BHHS), her dedication to our community goes far beyond her own time at school. Mrs. Dar began working for BHUSD as a Kindergarten Aide during college. After earning her English degree from San Diego State University, Mrs. Dar quickly found her purpose teaching English at BHHS. Her professional trajectory continued when appointed Assistant Principal at BHHS, followed by her role as Principal at Hawthorne.”

Dar is slated to begin her new position in July.  

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Artists Boyish and Yancyabril will perform and are past winners of Music Forward Foundation’s LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Awards. Brian Sonia-Wallace and the Pride Poets will also be on hand to create personalized poems for guests in the audience.

“We are proud to support the LGBTQ+ community by kicking off our Concerts on Canon series with a special ‘Pride Night’ performance,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Lester Friedman. “Throughout the month of June, we will also be honoring the community with a book display in our library that celebrates the achievements and struggles of the LGBTQIA+ community and we will illuminate our palm trees outside of City Hall with colorful lights.”

Pride Night artist Boyish was formed by India Shore and Claire Altendahl in 2016 at Berklee College of Music. The duo have accumulated over 30 million streams across their catalogue and have been lauded by various publications including Billboard. They were named winners of the LGBTQ+ Emerging Artist Award in 2021 and were included on the 2022 Record Store x Vans compilation album, “Portraits of Her” alongside Taylor Swift, Julien Baker, Girl in Red and more. Boyish has released collaborative songs with artists like Rachel Chinouriri and King Princess and have supported acts like The Beaches, Spill Tab, Hippo Campus and MUNA.

New York City native and singer-songwriter Yancyabril fuses Latin, Folk, Jazz, and R&B into her music, drawing inspiration from her Dominican-American heritage. In 2022, Yancyabril became a contestant on Season 2 of “The Voice Dominicana.”

Concerts on Canon is a free outdoor concert series that takes place weekly through August 22, with two 45-minute musical sets at 6 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. This season features a lineup of summertime, family-friendly entertainment that brings live music to the Golden Triangle of Beverly Hills.

The 2024 summer lineup: 

June 6:  Beverly Hills Pride Night with Boyish and Yancyabril

June 13:  Charlie’s Angel’s – The Band 

June 20: AbSOULute – Celebrating Juneteenth

June 27:  Bill Rotella & The Earthtones

July 4: Rod Lightning & the Thunderbolts of Love – Celebrating Independence Day Concert will take place from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

July 11: Beach St. A GoGo

July 18: Joyce Partise

July 25:  Tom Nolan Band

August 1: Leslie Paul & the Latin Soul Band

August 8: Upstream

August 15: David Gab

August 22: The Tokens

For more information about Concerts on Canon and the musical season this summer, visit beverlyhills.org/csevents or call 310-285-1000. 

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On May 24th, the district fittingly marked the end of an era at the school by inviting alumni and dignitaries to a reunion and breakfast ceremony. More than 400 attended the event, which featured a multitude of warm tributes to Hawthorne’s historic legacy. 

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The Mayor and City Council also recognized city staff in honor of Public Works Day at its May 21 City Council Meeting. Pictured (bottom row): Daniel Boyle, Paul Nguyen, Gardner McKay, Fausto Zagal, Genevieve Row, Eli Benitez, Jovito Enclona; (middle row): Robert Welch, Matt Hilton, Aldo De La Cruz, Vice Mayor Sharona Nazarian, Shana Epstein, Mayor Lester Friedman, Councilmember John Mirisch, Councilmember Mary Wells, Tania Schwartz, Alex Kay, Karen Domerchie, Jonathon Chacon; (back row): Michael Hensley, D’Andre Williams, Councilmember Craig Corman, Luis Ramos, Eric Cuevas and Jeff Bartizal

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All entries must be made with locally grown fruit in California. Judging is based on appearance, creativity, crust, consistency, and flavor.  Farmers’ Market money of $200, $100, $50 and $50 will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place and “Most Pie-utiful,” respectively.

The annual Piesta Pie Bake is a free event featuring a pie-eating contest for kids and adults, entertaining pie-themed activities, Kids Zone arts & crafts, musical entertainment, and more!

For additional pie bake entry rules or to download an application, visit beverlyhills.org/csevents.   

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“We are excited to once again welcome back our annual Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance to Beverly Hills,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Lester Friedman. “This Father’s Day tradition has always been something families look forward to attending and this year’s lineup of cars will truly be inspiring.”

This year’s event will feature a celebration of hypercars and supercars, including models from McLaren, Pagani, Czinger and more. New sponsors for the event this year include the  upcoming Netflix Film “Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F” and Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.

“There is simply no better Father’s Day tradition than bringing together incredible cars and wonderful people on our favorite street,” said Bruce Meyer, chairman of the Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance. “This year we’re bringing some of the world’s rarest and most expensive cars to the show, plus the nostalgic vintage cars we all love. It’s a wonderful way to spend a day with the family, and it’s free of charge!”

Proceeds from the concours benefit the Beverly Hills Police Officers Association and Beverly Hills Firefighters’ Association, which are non-profit charities raising funds for first responders and their families.

Admission to the event is free and parking is available at nearby parking garages. To learn more, visit https://beverlyhills.org/concoursbh. 

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Performances will take place at 7 p.m. and involve walking on various surfaces as well as some stair climbing. Guests are encouraged to arrive between 6:30 and 7 p.m., dressed in 1920s-themed attire, if they so wish. Tickets for Beverly Hills residents are $25 and are now available to purchase.  Non-residents can purchase tickets for $30 beginning May 17. 

For more information, visit www.beverlyhills.org/greystone or call 310-285- 6830.  

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Third Place was awarded to Brenda and Amanda Abeles for “Winning Rugelach.” Second Place winners were Elena and Janet Landau for “Grandma Helen’s Rugelach.” And the First Place prize went to Alan Bronowicz for “Date & Walnut Rugelach.” 

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Courier Publisher Lisa Friedman Bloch is a finalist in two categories for her STYLE Magazine cover features. The first is in the category of “Entertainment News or Feature” for “Eva Longoria Redefines Star Power,” which appeared in the November 2023 issue of Holiday STYLE. The second is in the category of “Personality Profile” for “Mike Amiri: Building a Modern Luxury House on His Own Terms” in the June 2023 issue of Summer STYLE. 

The Courier’s Executive Editor Ana Figueroa is a finalist in the category of “Print Hard News- Any Outlet” for “Hostage Families Tell Their Stories in Beverly Hills” from the Nov. 17, 2023 issue. And Courier Arts and Entertainment writer Neely Swanson is a finalist in the “Commentary/Analysis of Film-All Media Platforms” category for “Oppenheimer-A Prometheus of Mythical Proportions,” which appeared in the Aug. 4, 2023 issue of the Courier. 

Winners of the 66th Annual Southern California Journalism Awards will be announced on June 23 at a gala ceremony at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. 

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The tapestry is the work of artist Jenny Yurshansky, who led community workshops at Roxbury Park Community Center in February and March of this year. The sessions encouraged participants to explore their family origin stories through the creation of paper fortunes. These unique fortunes were then transformed into fabric quilt squares for inclusion in the tapestry. More than 60 of the 500 stories featured in the work were produced by Beverly Hills residents during the community workshops.

Additionally, the exhibit will feature “The Fugitive Archive,” a lightbox illuminating an image resembling an airport X-ray of a suitcase that holds sacred objects. These objects are also described in audio interviews with participants from previous community workshops. The resulting listening station, “Generation Loss,” will provide visitors an opportunity to listen to these stories on vinyl records.  

Numerous other events will take place in the city to honor Jewish American Heritage Month. Activities include: 

Rugelach Baking Contest, Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market, May 5, 8 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Shalom Stories (Storytime), Beverly Hills Public Library, May 5, 1 p.m.

Jewish Tales, Tunes and Tastes (Storytime), Beverly Hills Public Library, May 19, 1 p.m.

Movie at Greystone, “Prince of Egypt”, Greystone Theatre, May 19, 6:30 p.m.

“Two Jews, Talking” (Staged Reading), Greystone Theatre, May 22, 6:30 p.m.

Critical Conversations Speaker Series:  “Celebrating Jewish Culture & the Importance of Allyship,” City Hall Municipal Gallery, May 28, 6:30 p.m.

For more information about the events and to register for ticketed events, visit beverlyhills.org/JAHM.

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Architecture Tours: Explore the rich history and architecture of Greystone Mansion with guided tours of the first and second floors of the iconic English Revival mansion set on 18.3 acres. Tours will take place on May 3 at 3 p.m. and May 5 at noon and 3 p.m.

Preserving Greystone:  Join preservation experts Peyton Hall, Donna Williams and Amy Green, who have worked on restoration projects at Greystone, as they share insights into the unique challenges and history of the estate.  This free event will be held on May 9 at 6 p.m. Reservations are required. 

Restoring the Greystone Theatre:  Discover the captivating story behind the restoration of Greystone’s historic theatre, now equipped with state-of-the-art technology. Learn about the project details on May 11 at 11 a.m.  Tickets are $15 for residents, and $20 for non-residents.

Greystone in the Movies:  Relieve the magic of the 1966 film, “The Trouble with Angels,” which was shot on the beautiful grounds of Greystone.  Explore the filming locations that have since been transformed.

For more information and to reserve tickets, visit beverlyhills.org/preservationatgreystone. 

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The 80 students honored at the event participated in Career Pathways that included the Medical Science Academy, Audio Production, Broadcast Journalism (KBEV), Business, Robotics (Engineering), Fashion, Theatre Tech, and Culinary Arts. Each pathway is designed to provide students with hands-on, “real life” experience through an introductory course, a concentrator course, and a culminating capstone course.

Industry pathway teachers sharedremarks about their 2024 Outstanding Students and noted how the CTE pathways open excellent college opportunities for students, including students accepted to pathway-related programs including Fashion at Parsons NY, Leadership and Public Affairs at Claremont McKenna College, Mechanical Engineering at Cal Poly Pomona, Aerospace at USC, Neuroscience at Brandeis, Food Studies and Culinary at Drexel, Food Studies and Nutrition at Syracuse, Bioinformatics at UCSD, Finance at Wisconsin and IU, Neuroscience and Medicine, Health, Society Honors Program at Vanderbilt, and a myriad of programs at Yale, UPenn, Vanderbilt, UC Berkeley, Pomona, UCLA, LMU, and many more.

Special recognition was given to three community members who have shown exceptional dedication to the CTE Advisory Council, demonstrating their long-standing commitment to the development of the program and the success of its students. The honorees were Karla Gordy Bristol, Jennifer Okhovat, and Franny Rennie. 

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The biannual show takes place each May and October, and draws thousands to Beverly Hills. 

Artists will showcase their work in 11 categories including painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass, drawing, watercolor, traditional printmaking, photography, jewelry and more.  A myriad of festivities will include gourmet food trucks offering delectable treats, children’s activities brimming with fun arts and crafts, and a beer and wine garden where adults can unwind in the shade while listening to relaxing music in the park.  For more information, visit beverlyhills.org/artshow.   

The Beverly Hills Art Show started over 50 years ago as a very small “arts and crafts” fair on one block in Beverly Gardens Park.  Today, it has grown to 235 artists spread across four blocks and has attracted over 40,000 people over the two-day weekend, making it one of the most beloved and long-standing community events in Beverly Hills.   

The 2024 spring sponsors and partners are:  The Los Angeles Art Association, NoHo Arts District, LAArt Party, Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, Tower Cancer Research Foundation, Southern California Women’s Caucus for Art, Mount of Angels, Blank Beverage, SALT Catering, the Beverly Hills Conference and Visitors Bureau, the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce, the Beverly Hills Historical Society, the Beverly Hills Fire Department, the Beverly Hills Police Department and Just in Case BH.

Convenient parking for the Art Show is located directly across from the show grounds and in surrounding public parking structures.  A map to the city’s public parking structures can be found at beverlyhills.org/parking.

For more information about the May 2024 Beverly Hills Art Show, visit beverlyhills.org/artshow or call (310) 285-6830. 

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The new website, designed by the CivicPlus, features improved functionality, easy navigation as well as at-a-glance information about city news and upcoming events.

In conjunction with the website launch, the city will also unveil its new customer relations program called “askBH,” which will serve as the primary contact service for non-emergency assistance on city services, programs and events.

This new program will make it easier for community members to get in touch with a city representative either by phone, email, mobile app, website or via text.

“It’s imperative that we provide effective and hospitable customer service to our community and point them in the right direction when they need a question answered,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Lester Friedman. “Our new askBH team will be readily available to serve anyone needing assistance.”

Between the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays, the askBH customer service team will be able to help the public navigate with recreation reservations, solid waste and commercial trash services, reporting code violations, street repairs, obtain fire permits and more. More information will be made available soon. 

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The panel featured Kaye, who delivered an enlightening presentation on the effects of drug abuse; Jodi Barber, who shared the heartbreaking story of losing her son to drug abuse; Aliza Grama, a former addict who has triumphantly overcome her struggle with various substances; Pam Congdon, Executive Director of Calaoms; Sergeant Jeffrey Newman from the Beverly Hills Police Department and Tiffany Davis, who discussed drug abuse in the talent industry.

Gilardian told the Courier that the event left many students in tears and had a profound effect, with many students expressing increased resolve to stay away from drug use.  

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Individuals who love gardening can also become part of the Greystone Demonstration Gardening Club. Volunteers meet to help maintain the Greystone Demonstration Garden and the grounds around it, including Pollinator Hill. Gardening Club members will meet on April 19 and May 1 for the spring Club meetups. Pre-registration is required for all classes and the Gardening Club. For more information, gardening demonstration videos are available on YouTube @CommunityLifeBH 

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The theme of the luncheon is “Commemorating Women’s History Month and Women Making History Today!” and it will take place from 12 to 2 p.m. at the Club, located at 1700 Chevy Chase Drive. Founded in 1916, the BHWC is the oldest continually operating organization in Beverly Hills, save for the local government (established two years prior). Its mission statement includes the advancement in all lines of general culture, the opportunity for social service and the upbuilding of a community spirit in the city. The BHWC clubhouse, designed by renowned Los Angeles architectural team Gable & Wyant, is included on the National Register of Historic Places and designated Landmark #3 by the city of Beverly Hills. Guests are welcome to many BHWC events, including the March 19 luncheon. To RSVP, visit www.bhwc1916.org. 

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This family-friendly event offers a glimpse into the upcoming spring classes and summer camps featuring live performances, hands-on activities and demonstrations. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore a variety of programs offered by the city’s Community Services Department. A special discount on summer camps will also be available to Showcase attendees who fill out the Summer Camp Discount Form at the Information Booth during the event.  

The Spring Quarterly Brochure and Summer Camp Brochure is available at the Roxbury Park Community Center, La Cienega Community Center and the Beverly Hills Public Library. An online version of the Spring Quarterly Brochure is accessible at beverlyhills.org/brochure. Online registration for spring classes began March 4 for Beverly Hills residents. Registration opens March 11 for non-residents. Online registration for summer camps begins April 10 for Beverly Hills residents, and April 17 for non-residents.

The Farmers’ Market is located on the 9300 block of Civic Center Drive. For more information about the Community Services Department Showcase, visit beverlyhills.org/departmentshowcase or call 310-285-6852.

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On March 2, visitors are invited to explore the first floor of the Greystone Mansion during self-guided tours held every hour from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The tours will reveal the rich history of the estate, once owned by the illustrious Doheny family. Tickets are $8.

Later in the day on March 2, film enthusiasts can attend a “Greystone in the Movies” event, featuring a special screening of the film, “The Golden Child,” starring Eddie Murphy. Guests will have the unique opportunity to tour the areas where the movie was filmed and enjoy the screening in the recently renovated Greystone Theater. Tickets are $15 for Beverly Hills residents, and $20 for non-residents.

For garden enthusiasts, the “Gardening at Greystone” workshop takes place on March 3. It will offer a hands-on experience in the demonstration garden where guests will learn about plant propagation and other gardening tips. The workshop fee is $12 for Beverly Hills residents, and $15 for non-residents.

Additionally, music lovers should note that the final “Music in the Mansion” for this season takes place on March 10. Classical music concerts are scheduled at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets are $25 for Beverly Hills residents and $30 for non-residents.

Many programs have limited capacities and advance reservations are recommended for all events. For more information, visit www.beverlyhills.org/Greystone. 

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Under Priselac’s leadership, Cedars-Sinai Health System expanded the reach of its care across the Los Angeles region through the acquisition of Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital, affiliations with Torrance Memorial Health and Huntington Health in Pasadena, and joint ventures with Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center and California Rehabilitation Institute.

“Tom led Cedars-Sinai through an era of incredible changes in healthcare, adapting with innovation while always staying true to our mission,” said Cedars-Sinai Health System Board Chair Larry Platt. “He has that rare ability to continually look ahead while staying true to our longstanding institutional values.”

Priselac began his career at Montefiore Hospital in Pittsburgh and joined Cedars-Sinai in 1979 as an assistant administrator. He served as executive vice president from 1988 to 1993 and was appointed president and CEO of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in 1994. He has also served as president and CEO of Cedars-Sinai Health System since its formation in 2017.

Priselac’s health policy work includes serving on the advisory board of the USC Schaeffer Center for Health Policy and Economics, the RAND Social and Economic Policy advisory board, and the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine Roundtable on Quality Care for People with Serious Illness. He has received numerous awards for his leadership in healthcare and his commitment to improving the health of the underserved, including the American Hospital Association’s Distinguished Service Award, the Charles R. Drew University Board of Trustees Medal of Honor, the National Center for Healthcare Leadership Healthcare Leadership Award and B’nai B’rith International’s National Healthcare Leadership Award. Priselac holds the Warschaw/Law Endowed Chair in Healthcare Leadership at Cedars-Sinai and is also an adjunct professor at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health.

“It has been the singular honor of my professional life to work alongside the dedicated staff at this amazing institution,” Priselac said in a statement. “Every day, their dedication, expertise, commitment to quality, compassion for our patients and respect for each other have been a powerful inspiration to me, leaving an indelible mark on me professionally and personally, and reinforcing the importance of Cedars-Sinai’s mission.”

Priselac will continue to lead Cedars-Sinai until the board of directors has completed the search for his successor and that person joins Cedars-Sinai.  

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Campaign season is in full swing in Beverly Hills, with 10 candidates vying for the two seats on the City Council being vacated by Mayor Dr. Julian Gold and Councilmember Lili Bosse. Candidates took several opportunities over the past few weeks to engage with and share views on the issues with their supporters. The election takes place on March 5.

 

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The PAC conducted one-on-one interviews with each candidate to learn about their positions on issues facing the business community and their vision for the future.

In a statement to the Courier, the PAC indicated that its priorities include ensuring that the city remains a world-class destination and a safe place to shop and dine; that it remain on a sustainable financial path; that it tackle the housing element issue with sustainable innovative mixed-use developments and continues to attract new businesses. 

The statement added that Corman “has shown good judgment, character, and dedication in his viewpoints during his interviews. His innovative ideas regarding business attraction and development are reassuring. As a planning commissioner, Craig had a strong history of approving the majority of significant and innovative developments after thoughtful consideration of both the business and residential community. As such, the PAC is pleased to endorse Craig as a candidate due to his leadership qualities, temperament and skills to continue to tackle the key issues facing the city in the future and the ability to continue to implement reforms to support both the business and residential community in Beverly Hills.”

The purpose of the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce Leadership PAC is to preserve, protect and foster good government and support individuals who will promote the city’s business and residential communities. The PAC is affiliated with, but acts independently of, the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce.   

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City Council candidates Tiffany Davis and Sharon Persovski held their official kickoff events in Beverly Hills on Jan. 14. Davis greeted supporters at Cafe Amici while Persovski held her event at the Parakeet Cafe.

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Bolen, who holds an MBA and an MS, will lead all financial operations at The Wallis, establishing strong fiscal systems, maintaining internal controls, and ensuring compliance, in addition to overseeing accounting, budgeting, audits, and risk management functions. Bolen will play an integral role in collaborating with the Board and senior leadership in strategic discussions and advancing the mission of The Wallis, providing financial forecasting and analysis while supervising the dedicated team of finance professionals at the organization. 

“As we prepare for an inspiring 2024, we are delighted to have Lynne Bolen join The Wallis team,” said van Leer. “Her expertise in finance and her passion for the arts provides the perfect pairing of aptitudes that will be invaluable to our team as we aim to bring the very best in dance, music, theater, and more to Angelenos.” 

“I am overjoyed to be joining the impressive and talented group of individuals at the prestigious Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts,” said Bolen. “I look forward to playing a meaningful role in the continued development of this iconic Los Angeles arts venue and cultural center – one that has endless growth opportunities ahead.”

Previously, Bolen served as CFO for nonprofit organizations such as United Cerebral Palsy of Los Angeles, Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties, and the Memorial Medical Center Foundation. For a decade, she simultaneously held the roles of Controller and Director of Development at St. Jude Memorial Foundation. Additionally, Bolen worked for South Coast Repertory as their Controller, the nonprofit theater’s top financial position. 

Throughout Bolen’s career, she has handled fiduciary responsibility for $180 million in restricted and endowment assets in over 1,000 funds, financial management of a $40 million budget with 750 employees, over $250 million in investment transactions, purchases, sales, and transfers, and accounting for a $97 million capital campaign, including building construction and loan repayment. 

Additionally, Bolen has extensive experience in collaborating and partnering with C-suite executives, serving as their advisor by providing financial guidance. She also has proven success in working closely with Boards of Directors, fund accounting, budgets, cashflow, grants administration, and much more. 

Bolen brings over two decades of experience in the top financial positions of nonprofit organizations, starting with South Coast Repertory, the Tony award-winning professional producing theatre on the campus of the Segerstrom Center for the Performing Arts. Most recently, Bolen served as the Chief Financial Officer of the Orange County Museum of Art that opened a new $97 million building in October 2022, also on the Segerstrom Center campus. 

Prior to OCMA, Bolen was the Vice President Finance and CFO of Public Counsel, the largest provider of pro bono legal services in the United States. She holds an MBA and a Master of Science.

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The Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Meeting and City Council Candidate Forum took place on Jan. 11. Due to the large number of candidates in the race, the forum was held in two sessions. The first group consisted of Tiffany Davis, Craig Corman, Nooshin Meshkaty, Alissa Roston and Mary Wells. The second panel consisted of Myra Demeter, Hamid Omrani, Sharon Persovski, Robin Rowe and Russell Stuart. Both panels began with candidates offering a short opening statement and proceeded into a question and answer format. The full story about this important event will be available on BeverlyHillsCourier.com as well as the Jan. 19 issue of the Courier.

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UCLA has acquired the former Westside Pavilion shopping mall, which the university will transform into the UCLA Research Park, bringing together scholars and industry experts from around the world to create a nexus for discovery and innovation that will benefit Southern California and beyond.

The 700,000-square-foot property, located 2 miles south of the Westwood campus, will initially host two multidisciplinary research centers: the California Institute for Immunology and Immunotherapy at UCLA and the UCLA Center for Quantum Science and Engineering.

The new UCLA Research Park is made possible in part by an intended $500 million investment, with $200 million already allocated, from the state of California to establish and fund the immunology and immunotherapy institute at UCLA. The institute is also supported by a group of founding donors from the biotechnology, academic, entrepreneurship and philanthropic communities led by Meyer Luskin, Dr. Gary Michelson, Dr. Eric Esrailian, Dr. Arie Belldegrun, Sean Parker and Michael Milken.

In addition, Google—which previously leased part of the property—helped enable and support UCLA’s acquisition. Favorable real estate market conditions helped create the historic opportunity for the university as well.

At the 700,000-square-foot UCLA Research Park site, scholars, industry partners, government agencies, startups and students will explore new areas of inquiry and achieve breakthroughs that serve global society.

 

The institute will draw on the expertise of UCLA faculty members, scholars from different higher education institutions, and other leading scientists and practitioners in clinical and biomedical scientific research, including human genetics, genomics, computer science, engineering and information science. Researchers will pursue new tools, treatments and vaccines for cancer, autoimmune and immune deficiency disorders, infectious diseases, allergies, heart conditions, solid organ transplantation and other major health-related issues.

The UCLA Research Park will also be home to the UCLA Center for Quantum Science and Engineering, which conducts research in the emerging field of quantum science and technology — including quantum computing, communication and sensing — with the aim of dramatically increasing information processing power by harnessing the unusual behavior of subatomic particles. The center will also house the Quantum Leap Challenge Institute for Present and Future Quantum Computation, an NSF-funded initiative that includes UCLA and seven other universities.

UCLA acquired the property and the attached multiplex theater — occupying 10800, 10830 and 10850 W. Pico Blvd. — from Hudson Pacific Properties and Macerich. The companies redeveloped a significant portion of the former mall, updating building systems infrastructure and conducting a major seismic retrofit, as well as adding a new window wall, concrete building facades, courtyards, terraces and patio areas. Hudson Pacific Properties and Macerich also worked closely with Google on converting part of the property to flexible office space.

“We’re delighted that UCLA will be further developing this state-of-the-art facility to help accelerate transformative research and innovation,” said Scott Foster, Google’s vice president of real estate and workplace services. “Google has called the greater Los Angeles area home for over 20 years, and we saw an opportunity for the space to be better utilized in a way that benefits the broader community.”

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Second place for the Best Tasting Cookie and $100 worth of Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market money was awarded to Ruby Matenko for her Oatmeal blueberry Chocolate Chunk Cookie. First place, along with the title of Best Tasting Cookie in Beverly Hills and $200 worth of Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market money was awarded to Lisa Licht for her Chocolate Chip Cookie.

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Photo courtesy Candice Tahour

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This week, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (Public Health) launched the Respwatch Surveillance Dashboard. This dashboard is updated weekly on Fridays and shares information on flu, COVID-19 and RSV, and allows residents to track information in one convenient location. The dashboard includes information on clinical laboratory surveillance, emergency department visits and wastewater concentrations in comparison to previous seasons.

Public Health notes that during this season, vaccination is the best defense against severe illness and hospitalization and is especially important for people who are older or have underlying health conditions. The updated COVID-19 vaccine is available across Los Angeles County. The COVID-19 vaccine, in addition to the flu vaccine, is recommended for everyone 6 months and older. The new vaccine is recommended regardless of previous vaccination status, meaning those with and without previous COVID-19 vaccines should still get the updated 2023-2024 dose.

People who are 60 and older should speak with their provider about an RSV vaccine. RSV vaccination is also recommended for people who are between 32-36 weeks pregnant and immunizations are available for infants under 8 months old.

COVID-19 home tests remain an important tool to reduce the spread of COVID-19 this winter. 

Testing is strongly recommended for people who have been exposed to COVID-19, people who have possible symptoms of COVID-19, including fever, cough or sore throat, and for those who are attending gatherings or visiting with people who may be more vulnerable to a severe COVID-19 infection, especially people who are over 65 years old.

To avoid spreading another respiratory infection, like flu or RSV, individuals with respiratory symptoms who test negative for COVID-19 should mask indoors while around others. It is most accurate to take a second COVID-19 test 48 hours after the first test if respiratory symptoms persist.

When a person tests negative for COVID-19, yet still has symptoms of a respiratory virus, they may have a flu or RSV infection and should stay home to prevent the spread of illness. For a flu infection, a health care provider can prescribe antivirals, if appropriate, which can reduce the severity and duration of illness.

Adults and children 12 years and older who test or are suspected positive for COVID-19 and who have underlying health conditions or factors that may result in more severe illness from COVID-19 are eligible to take Paxlovid, which must be started within five days of symptom onset. Public Health encourages everyone to speak with their provider about Paxlovid if they test positive.

Paxlovid, the antiviral medication to treat COVID-19, is widely available in Los Angeles County at no cost. Currently there is ample supply of Paxlovid courses, provided through the U.S. government, available at Los Angeles County pharmacies, Public Health Centers and through Public Health telehealth services, provided free to residents through the Public Health Call Center at 1-833-540-0473, open 7 days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

The Public Health Call Center can also answer questions about respiratory symptoms, how to find a Public Health Center, where to get vaccinated or how to get tested and help to schedule vaccination appointments, including in-home vaccinations for people who are homebound. 

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The city of Beverly Hills hosted its annual Holiday Employee Lunch on Dec. 6. In addition to a delicious meal, attendees were treated to a visit by Santa himself, aka Mayor Dr. Julian Gold.

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It is important to note that unless a person has been vaccinated since Sept. 2023, they are not up to date with their COVID-19 boosters. They should consider getting the updated vaccine soon to increase protection from severe illness before gathering with family and friends for Thanksgiving. It may take up to two weeks for the body to build-up maximum protection against COVID-19 after vaccination, so it is good to plan ahead.

Vaccines provide protection from infectious diseases that can lead to severe illness for individuals, especially those who are more vulnerable. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the first 10 months that first COVID-19 vaccines became available, they saved more than 200,000 lives and prevented more than 1.5 million hospitalizations in the United States.

In Los Angeles County, more than 540,000 doses of the updated COVID-19 vaccine have been administered, and among people 65 and older, 15 % have received the newest COVID-19 vaccine. For people ages 12 to 64, uptake is currently lower, about 5 %. Public Health is working to make sure more people know about the updated vaccine, its benefits and that they are eligible.

In Los Angeles County over the past 30 days, people who were vaccinated against COVID-19 were three times less likely to be hospitalized and 3.4 times less likely to die. While many people in Los Angeles County recognize the benefits of the vaccine, there may be confusion on whether this updated vaccine is needed.

Unfortunately, just like protection from a previous COVID-19 infection wanes over a few months, scientists have learned that vaccine protection also wanes over time. Similar to flu, because different strains of COVID-19 virus circulate each year, updated vaccines are needed to maximize protection. This is especially true for those who are most likely to experience severe illness if infected, including people who are older, very young children and people with chronic or underlying health conditions.

The updated vaccine is for everyone six months and older, made to target strains that are circulating now, specifically the XBB lineage of the Omicron variant—which accounts for 99 % of sequenced specimens in Los Angeles County.

As of the most recent specimen sequencing in Los Angeles County, the XBB sub strain EG.5 accounted for 35 % of sequenced specimens. The next most dominant strain was HV.1, a descendant of EG.5, accounting for 8 % of sequenced specimens followed by XBB.2.3 and XBB.1.16.6, each accounting for 7 % of specimens.

Public Health encourages residents to have conversations with friends and family and make sure they know they are eligible for the updated vaccine. Mobile vaccine teams are out in the county and are listed in search at myturn.ca.gov. 

If Los Angeles County residents have questions about vaccines, where to get vaccination or how to get tested, the Public Health Call Center remains open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to answer COVID-19-related questions at 1-833-540-0473. Public Health staff can connect callers with resources and help people schedule vaccination appointments, including in-home vaccinations for those that are homebound.

In Los Angeles County, based on data through Oct. 21, the CDC Hospital Admission Level is Low at 4.2 new COVID-19 hospitalizations per 100,000 people.

Public Health reports COVID-19 data weekly. 

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USC Shoah Foundation–The Institute for Visual History and Education (the USC Shoah Foundation) has announced that it will collect and acquire testimonies from survivors of the Oct. 7 terrorist attack on southern Israel. Survivor stories will be preserved in perpetuity within USC Shoah Foundation’s Visual History Archive (VHA) where they will be accessible at more than 190 institutions around the world including museums, libraries, and universities and available to policy makers, NGO’s, researchers, and content creators. Through the VHA, testimonies will be integrated into USC Shoah Foundation’s award-winning educational programs and partnerships, which reach an estimated 10 million students around the world annually with classroom resources aimed at countering hate and building critical thinking skills and civic engagement.

“We have been gearing up for a major initiative to capture more testimonies of the victims of today’s antisemitism, which has been growing year over year around the world for the last decade. After the hate-fueled terror attacks by Hamas, we had to mobilize even faster than planned,” said Dr. Robert J. Williams, Finci-Viterbi Executive Director Chair of USC Shoah Foundation. While the initiative is still being developed, teams in Israel have already recorded the first testimonies, which will become part of the Contemporary Antisemitism collection and will help combat disinformation about the Oct. 7 attacks.

“This testimony coming from Israel is raw and unfiltered, and it is painful to know that the atrocities that the Jewish people have suffered for generations continue to happen,” Wiliams said. “But these testimonies are essential for us to live up to our obligation to document antisemitic crimes in order to build understanding, awareness, and the resilience to push back. We know from our work that seeing and hearing from survivors can profoundly affect audiences in ways that can encourage the creation of cultures that value mutual respect and understanding,” Williams said.

USC Shoah Foundation’s VHA contains more than 56,000 video testimonies of survivors and witnesses of genocide, crimes against humanity, and related persecution. It is the largest digital collection of its kind in the world. Currently encompassing nearly 120,000 hours of video testimony, nearly every testimony contains a complete personal history of life before, during, and after the interviewee’s firsthand experience with genocide. The Visual History Archive is digitized, fully searchable, and continuously updated to ensure the quality and integrity of the testimonies. This indexing allows students, scholars, researchers, and others around the world to retrieve entire testimonies or search for specific sections within testimonies through a set of 65,600 keywords, 1.99 million names, and 719,000 images.

The vast majority of testimonies in the archive—more than 55,000—relate to the Holocaust, with remainder coming from the Armenian Genocide that coincided with World War I, the 1937 Nanjing Massacre in China, the Cambodian Genocide of 1975-1979, the Guatemalan Genocide of 1978-1983, the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, and the ongoing conflicts in the Central African Republic and South Sudan, and anti-Rohingya mass violence.

Amid a global rise in anti-Jewish violence, the USC Shoah Foundation launched the Contemporary Antisemitism Collection in 2015, gathering accounts from victims of antisemitism as it occurred after 1945. The initiative to significantly expand that collection was in the works before the attacks in Israel.

“Holocaust survivors who entrusted their memories to us hoped that their words would help create a world without antisemitism, and certainly without the kind of antisemitic violence we just witnessed in Israel,” Williams said. “Clearly, there is still work to do. This expansion of the VHA not only creates opportunities for millions of people to learn about and remember the Shoah, but also to understand the experiences of today’s victims of the same irrational hatred that led to the Holocaust.”

At present, USC Shoah Foundation is laying the technical groundwork and fundraising for its expanded initiative. In coming months, the Institute will announce additional details including subject experiences, partnerships, and instructions for how families can register for filming.

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The city of Beverly Hills and its Community Services Department will celebrate 50 years of artistic excellence and community engagement in the Fall Art Show on Oct. 21 and 22 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Beverly Gardens Park.

Since its inception, the Beverly Hills Art Show has grown from a one-day show attracting a few dozen artists and a small gathering to an all-encompassing, mutiday festival featuring 230 artists, artists’ demonstrations, arts and crafts workshops in the Children’s Area provided by Self-Help Graphics, live musical entertainment, food and more. The event attracts nearly 40,000 people from all over the world.

“Our amazing Affaire in the Garden—the Beverly Hills Art Show—is back with another exceptional list of participating artists drawn from all over the world,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Julian Gold. “This special 50th Anniversary Fall Edition promises to be an unforgettable celebration of culture and arts. We invite everyone to stop by and we look forward to seeing you there.”

The fall show will feature artwork in painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass, drawing, watercolor, traditional printmaking, photography, jewelry and more along four blocks of Santa Monica Boulevard from Rodeo Drive to Rexford Drive. The show also features juried art show award winners in 15 categories, including Best in Show and the Gil Borgos Award, named after an artist who convinced Beverly Hills to hold an arts and crafts fair 50 years ago. In addition, Gold will have the distinct honor of selecting a piece of art for the city, known as the Mayor’s Purchase Award.

The 2023 fall sponsors and partners are the Los Angeles Art Association, NoHo Arts District, LAArt Party, Southern California Women’s Caucus for Art, Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, Blank Beverage, SALT Catering, Beverly Hills Conference and Visitors Bureau, Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce, Beverly Hills Historical Society and Beverly Hills Unified School District.

For more information about the artists and schedule of events, visit beverlyhills.org/artshow.

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Site preparation activities have been underway for the project, which will include a mix of luxury residences, hotel rooms, and landscaped gardens across the site’s 17.5 acres. Slated to open in 2027, One Beverly Hills site sits adjacent to the Beverly Hilton and Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills near the intersection of North Santa Monica Boulevard and Wilshire Boulevard.

Beginning the week of Oct. 16 and continuing through March, the project’s construction team will be working to relocate utility lines along Wilshire Boulevard. This work will take place in the right-of-way and will consist of trenching and pipe installation from the western city limit to Whittier Drive.

To complete this work, existing landscaped medians and gateway monument signs along Wilshire Boulevard will be temporarily removed. The six Date Palm trees located in the median will also be preserved and stored for future re-planting.

Throughout the course of the work, intermittent lane closures will occur in a phased approach. The first phase will consist of a one-lane closure in each direction along Wilshire Boulevard to Trenton Drive Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The second phase will involve longer-term closures of two lanes on Wilshire Boulevard (alternating between east and westbound directions) and eastbound left turn restrictions at Whittier Drive and Trenton Drive. While the lane closures during this phase will be continuous, active work will be occurring Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

For more information about project construction, visit obhconstructionhelpline.com. 

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The auction will be live from Oct. 13 at 9 a.m.- Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. Funds raised will benefit the Beverly Hills Police Officers Benevolent Fund. To register, visit https://BHPoliceGala.givesmart.com to register.

For more information, contact the Beverly Hills Police Officers Benevolent Fund at 310-550-4551 or auction@bhpoa.org. 

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Free classes and workshops include:

• Yoga, Thai Chi, Chair Yoga for Kids, Pilates, High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), Krav Maga Self-Defense Training, and more;

• Social Media Safety:  How to Keep Families Safe Online;

• Mental Health Workshops include Teen Mental Health; Hypnosis Sound Bath to Lower Anxiety and Boost Confidence; Uncovering Resilience: The Science Behind Connection and Wellbeing; Let’s Address Stress: Tips for Building Resiliency from the Inside Out;

• Nutrition Strategies:  Nutrition and Mental Health: How Food & Supplements Affect Mood; and, Less Sweets, More Sweat: Hypnosis to Achieve Health Goals;

• Family Wellbeing: Family Reconnection Exercises to Making Family Relationships Stronger and, Building Bridges: Conflict Resolution for the Whole Family

• Inner Dimensions of Wellbeing, Singalong for Wellness and How to Be Your Best Self!

The Beverly Hills Teen Advisory Committee will lead a teen wellness station where community members can express their creativity by handcrafting dream catchers or meditate on the future while creating vision boards.

Also, with so much research on how animals can help improve mental health, Wags and Walks Animal Rescue will have a mix of puppies in an area for people to experience the therapeutic joy of the animal/human connection. 

Ridesharing is encouraged. Parking is available at Roxbury Park and Community Center but may be limited due to event crowd. Additional parking is available at Beverly Hills High School, 241 S. Moreno Drive (Entrance off S. Moreno Drive and Durant Drive). A shuttle will run between Beverly Hills High School and Roxbury Park every 10 minutes from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Beverly Hills Day of Wellness is presented in partnership with the City of Beverly Hills Community Services Department, the Human Relations Commission, the Recreation and Parks Commission and the Health and Safety Commission.

For the full schedule of events and list of health and wellness providers, visit beverlyhills.org/dayofwellness.

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When the possible burglary suspect fled, police officers followed suit. Witnesses at the scene report seeing the officers use their vehicles in a maneuver to stop the suspect’s vehicle by spinning it completely around. The vehicle, which appeared to be a Chevy Malibu, came to a halt at the corner of Doheny and Hillcrest drives. The witnesses then observed the officers draw their guns as they commanded the suspect, a white male, to exit the vehicle. The suspect remained on the curb as officers proceeded to remove an extensive amount of contents from the trunk and interior of his vehicle. As of press time the investigation is ongoing at the scene. 

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The Church of the Good Shepherd in Beverly Hills celebrated a centennial mass on Aug. 13. The Most Reverend José H. Gomez, Archbishop of Los Angeles, officiated. The invitation-only service was attended by 500 congregants and special guests, including Former California Governor Gray Davis, Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, Beverly Hills City Manager Nancy Hunt-Coffey and Deputy City Manager Keith Sterling, Mayor Dr. Julian Gold, Vice Mayor Lester Friedman, Councilmembers Lili Bosse and Sharona Nazarian, Police Chief Mark Stainbrook, Commissioners Mark Teren, Kimberly Vinokur, Laura Margo and Karla Gordy Bristol, Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Todd Johnson and other VIPs.

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The application deadline is Aug. 2 for contestants in two categories: Best Dill Pickle in Beverly Hills and “I Can Pickle That!” Those entering the “I Can Pickle That!” category are encouraged to use their imagination in pickling any kind of fruit or vegetable. In past years, entries have ranged from the traditional cucumbers to fruit items like watermelon and stone fruit. All pickled produce submitted must be grown in California.

A panel of judges will award market money of $200, $100 and $50 to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners.

Picklefest takes place in conjunction with the weekly Farmers’ Market, an outdoor certified market providing California-grown, fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables, juices, breads, specialty items and more. Additional activities on the day of Picklefest will include face painting, arts and crafts for kids and a game zone.

For additional details about Picklefest and the Beverly Hills Farmers Market, visit www.beverlyhills.org/FarmersMarket or call 310-285-6830. 

The post Annual Picklefest Takes Place Aug. 6 at Farmers’ Market appeared first on Beverly Hills Courier.

Society Hounds, the new luxury dog boutique on Canon Drive, held an official ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 20. In attendance (from left): Councilmember Sharona Nazarian, store owner Adria Cumonow, Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Todd Johnson, Mayor Dr. Julian Gold and store owner Dorothy Kamins

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In addition to the cars, a number of sponsors will host interactive exhibits. And a variety of food trucks and carts will be on scene, including Baby’s Badass Burgers, Café Balmano, Cousins Maine Lobster, The Deli Doctor, Ginger’s Divine Ice Cream, King Kone Ice Cream and Ladurée Beverly Hills. For more details about this year’s Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance, visit beverlyhills.org/concours. 

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“We deeply appreciate the hard work and commitment of so many Beverly Hills residents, elected leaders and others on behalf of Cheval Blanc Beverly Hills and the lasting benefits it would bring to the city. Although some votes remain to be counted, it now appears that Measures B and C have fallen short by a narrow margin, overturning the results of a comprehensive, years-long review and approval process that resulted in the unanimous approval of the project by the Planning Commission and a 4-1 vote of support by the City Council. We are proud to have worked with so many residents, civic leaders and business owners who supported this once-in-a-generation investment that would have delivered hundreds of millions of dollars in city funding, and a beautiful gateway project for the Golden Triangle. If the final vote count confirms the voters’ rejection of our project, we will respect the outcome, and will not bring the hotel project back in any form.”

Earlier on May 26, the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder released these additional election results:

With a total of 7,028 votes counted (representing 31.71% of registered voters), “No” votes have increased their lead on both Measures B and C.

Measure B Results: 

“Yes” 3,440 or 49.12%
“No”  3,563 or 50.88%

Measure C Results:
“Yes” 3,440 or 49.11%
“No” 3,565 or 50.89%

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This free outdoor concert series will take place weekly until Aug. 24 with two 45-minute musical sets at 6 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. The 2023 summer line-up includes the following:

June 1 – Pride Night Concert with Leopold Nunan and Kymistry – electronic funk and contemporary R&B; 

June 8 – Linda and Friends – Classic Rock ‘n Roll;

June 15 – Rod Lightning and the Thunderbolts of Love – Classic Rock ‘n Roll and Pop;

June 22 – Upstream – Caribbean;

June 29 – Zetz Klezmer Ensemble – Klezmer;

July 6 –  Beach St. A GoGo – ‘60s Tribute;

July 13 – Joyce Partise – Brazilian/Bossa Nova;

July 20 – Alligator Beach – New Orleans Jazz/Funk;

July 27 – Susie Hansen Latin Band – Latin;

Aug. 3 – Rumba Acoustic Band – Acoustic Persian Hits;

Aug. 10 – Smokin’ Cobras – Classic Rock and Pop;

Aug. 17 – The Tokens – Doo-Wop;

Aug. 24 – David Gab – Rock ‘n Roll.

For more information about Concerts on Canon, visit beverlyhills.org/concertsoncanon or call 310-285-6830. 

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“I am very pleased to welcome Nestor to this new role,” said Timothea Tway, Director of Community Development. “With almost three decades in Beverly Hills and his directly relevant experience working with both our tenants and landlords, I’m confident he will thrive in the position and enhance this critical division of the city.” 

Otazu joined the city of Beverly Hills in 1998 as a Building Systems Technician before shifting to Code Enforcement Officer in 2000. He was later named manager of the division in 2008. During his tenure, he has worked to expand the depth of service and program operations to seven days a week. Otazu has also managed and administered rent stabilization codes and tenant and landlord processes. In 2017, he took an active role working with city leaders in the implementation, rollout and development of the new Rent Stabilization Program and rent registry. 

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“The annual Father’s Day Concours d’Elegance is a tradition that families look forward to each year,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Gold. “There is no better place to see so many of the world’s most sought-after cars, all in one place, than in Beverly Hills on Father’s Day, surrounded by world-class history, iconic palm-lined streets and, of course, our welcoming community.”

“We’re thrilled to be back on Rodeo Drive for this fantastic Father’s Day tradition. We work to make this event bigger and better each year and couldn’t do it without the support of this incredible community,” said Bruce Meyer, chairman of the Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance. “I love seeing families enjoy this day together, and you can’t beat the smile on someone’s face when they see their favorite car.”

Proceeds from the concours benefit the Beverly Hills Police Officers Association and Beverly Hills Firefighters’ Association, non-profit charities raising funds for first responders and their families.

To learn more, visit beverlyhills.org/concours. 

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Courier Publisher Lisa Friedman Bloch is a finalist in two categories for her cover features profiling high-profile business figures in Beverly Hills. The first is in the category of “Personality Profile, Politics/Business/Arts Personalities” for her Holiday 2022 STYLE Magazine cover feature, “ANASTASIA: Beverly Hills’ World-Famous Eyebrow Queen.” She was also nominated in the category “Feature: Business/Government” for “Nicholas Bijan: The Prince of Beverly Hills,” the cover story of the Summer 2022 STYLE Magazine.

The Courier’s Executive Editor Ana Figueroa is a finalist in the category “Criticism of Art/Architecture/Design” for a feature that resonated with the significant Beverly Hills membership of Wilshire Boulevard Temple. That feature, “The New Audrey Irmas Pavilion Illuminates Wilshire Boulevard Temple,” was published in the Courier’s April 8, 2022 issue. 

And Courier Contributing Editor Linda Immediato is a finalist in the “Feature: Music/Arts” category for “The Vibrant World of Nicholas Kontaxis,” which appeared in the Summer 2022 STYLE Magazine. 

Winners of the 65th Annual Southern California Journalism Awards will be announced on June 25 at a gala ceremony at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.

As set forth in the May 12 issue of the Courier, the Courier last week garnered five awards from the California News Publishers Association. 

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Visitors will also enjoy an array of activities including artist demonstrations, jewelry-making for kids, on-site screen printing of limited-edition Art Show totes (Sunday only and while supplies last), and selfie-spot photo opportunities. There will be a beer and wine garden and food to purchase from well-known gastro-trucks, including Cousin’s Main Lobster, The Deli Doctor, Serendoggity, Thai-Mex Cocina, Baby’s Badass Burgers, Chicken King, Vivace Pizza, Dreamy Cupcake Creations and Kona Ice. On Sunday, bicycle valet and services will be available courtesy of Pedal Movement. The Art Show is free and open to the public. 

For more information about the Beverly Hills Art Show and to see a list of artists, visit www.beverlyhills.org/artshow or call 310-285-6830. 

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According to BHPD Public Information Officer Lt. Reginald Evans, the Virtual Police Officers in the RTWC picked up the suspect’s vehicle on camera and provided direction to responding officers. 

The pursuit ended in the area of Cotner Ave. and N. Santa Monica Boulevard in the city of Los Angeles. All four occupants of the vehicle were detained. The investigation led to the arrest of the four occupants and the recovery of handgun and rifle in the suspect’s vehicle. Arrested were: Threets, Briana, 18, of Oakland, charged with 211 PC – Robbery; Clark, Keymaurie, 26,  of Oakland, charged with 211 PC – Robbery and two juveniles (one male one female), 15 years of age.

There were three victims associated with this armed robbery and their property was recovered at the conclusion of the investigation. The suspect vehicle was later deemed to have been stolen prior to this crime.

BHPD Detectives are following up on leads and believe there may be other recent robberies involving this same group.  Anyone with information about this crime is urged to call the BHPD at 310-285- 2125. Anonymous reports can be made by text to TIP BHPDAlert followed by the tip information to 888777 or by calling Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477. To access Crime Stoppers, download the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP or use the website http://www.lacrimestoppers.org. 

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Fred received undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of Montana, courtesy of the GI Bill, as he was fond of saying. After graduation, he taught Radio Speech and Radio Drama at the University and became the University Sports Information Director. In 1952, he began his long tenure with the city of Beverly Hills. He worked first as an intern for the Administration Officer, then moved to the Public Information office. His last position, which he left in 1993, was Executive Director of Public Affairs. He then volunteered for 10 years more. All together, he served 32 mayors and 60 city council members. 

Fred was one the pioneers in creating Municipal Video programming. On behalf of the city, Fred won countless awards, including Cable Ace and Emmy awards.  He also gave hands-on training to many, many UCLA and USC students. 

So esteemed was Fred, that in 2014 an award was established by the city council in his name: the Fred C. Cunningham Award. The award honors a well-respected city employee.  Fred was its first recipient.

“We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Fred Cunningham,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Julian Gold. “Fred was an incredible man who served the city and its residents for 50 years and was a trailblazer in the world of government communications. His extraordinary work ethic and resident focused service approach inspired us in 2014 to create the Fred C. Cunningham Award for Distinguished Service. Fred’s incredible legacy will never be forgotten and his love for this city will be cherished forever.”

Fred was a member of the Rotary Club of Beverly Hills since 1990. He embodied the Rotary motto of “Service above Self.” He will be remembered for his jaunty hat, radiant smile and kindness to all.

“Fred was a thoughtful professional who brought honor to the city through his tireless representation.  He was a talented pioneer in government communications.  He was truly a legend,” said his long-time friend and fellow Rotarian, Lillian Raffel. 

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Voters are asked to vote on Measures “B” and “C,” which seek to uphold the Development Agreement and the ordinance approving the Specific Plan Zoning and Map Amendments for the Cheval Blanc Beverly Hills hotel project.

Voters can track their ballot every step of the way with Where’s My Ballot? – a free subscription that sends automatic notifications by text, email, or voicemail on the status of the ballot.

Voters can return completed ballots by mail, with no postage required. They can also drop it off in person at a Ballot Drop Box (located at Beverly Hills City Hall and Roxbury Park Community Center) or Vote Center (beginning May 13).

The RR/CC provides translated election materials in up to 18 different languages. Voters can request to receive their materials in their preferred language by returning the Language Request Form on the back of the Sample Ballot Book, or by calling 800-815-2666, option 3. 

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Over 230 local, national and international artists will showcase their work in media that include painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass, drawing, watercolor, traditional printmaking, photography, jewelry and more. Nearly 85 new artists will be part of the show that runs along four blocks of Santa Monica Boulevard, from Rodeo Drive to Rexford Drive and will feature a Beer & Wine Garden, gourmet food, refreshing beverage trucks, artist demonstrations and more!  For more information, visit beverlyhills.org/artshow.

The Beverly Hills Art Show began 50 years ago as an “Affaire in the Garden” after artist and caricaturist, Gil Borgos, convinced then Deputy Director Michelle Marrell to start a very small “arts and crafts” fair on one block in Beverly Gardens Park. Today, it has grown to 230 artists spread across four blocks and has attracted over 40,000 people over the two-day weekend, making it one of the most beloved and long-standing community events in Beverly Hills.

“This year’s 50th Anniversary Art Show will be truly a special event,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Gold. “There’s no better place to experience immersive and innovative art than right here in our beautiful Beverly Gardens Park. We’ll be showcasing more artists than we ever have before, making this a golden anniversary event no one should miss.”

The 2023 spring sponsors and partners are: The Los Angeles Art Association, NoHo Arts District, LAArt Party, Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, Blank Beverage, SALT Catering, the Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau, the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce, and the Beverly Hills Historical Society.

Parking for the Art Show is located directly across from the show grounds and in surrounding public parking structures. For more information visit beverlyhills.org/artshow or call 310-285-6830. 

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“Our Nurse Practitioner Program is the beginning of the future of community-based medicine,” said Gold. “We are leading this pilot program to demonstrate to the country how we can put less stress on our hospitals and effectively give the care that is needed to our residents where they are at home. As we seek programs which support aging in place, it is imperative that we develop solutions like this one.” 

The City’s NPP has been in place since 2019, and currently serves as a Mobile Integrated Healthcare solution that responds to low acuity emergency calls and attends to those needing treatment in their home, addresses chronic conditions and reduces the reliance on the emergency department so that fire suppression resources can be made available. At the City Council Meeting on April 18 the mayor and City Council approved additional funding for the program. 

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The City of Beverly Hills Community Services has announced the return of Music in the Mansion to historic Greystone Mansion and Gardens as a four-day classical music festival from April 20-23. Tickets are now on sale to Beverly Hills residents and will go on sale to the general public on March 27. Tickets are $22 per day for residents and $30 per day for non-residents.

The Music in the Mansion Festival has been celebrating extraordinary music-making for 29 years, showcasing the winners of the annual Beverly Hills National Auditions and supporting the careers of outstanding emerging talent from all over the world. This series is curated and produced in partnership with Laura Schmieder, Director of iPalpiti Artists International, Inc.

The Festival’s opening night on April 20 will feature the Shining Sound Ensemble. Armenian sacred folk music and European repertoires will be performed by artists Marina Hovhannisyan, soprano; Grygori Koval, guitar; Braley Bascon, baroque violin; and, Eric Tinkerhess, viola da gamba. Following Shing Sound Ensemble, artists Giorgi Latso and Anna Federova-Latso will perform their duo-piano repertoire that has critics calling their performance as “thrilling and flamboyant,” and their performance of Mozart “impeccable by any standard, highlighted with exquisite thrills, drizzling runs and precise Mozartean dynamics.”

On April 21, The OC Classical Trio will make their debut at Music in the Mansion, featuring artists Antonina Styczen, flute; Pola Benke, cello; and, Philip Matsuura, piano. These three artists have performed independently in numerous competitions around the world and each has received rave reviews among music critics. Following The OC Classical Trio is Duo Violino, with violinists Yuan Tian and Zi Zygmund Wang, two highly-acclaimed violinists who came together out of friendship, and have performed together with great success throughout the United States and in Italy.

On April 22, three performances will take place, starting with Seraphour Voice Ensemble with artists Heidi Vass, soprano 1; Melissa Birch, soprano 2; Emma Grace Roche, alto 1; and Dana Route, alto 2. These artists together will take the audience on a journey through iconic works of Palestrina, Brahms, and Thompson, paired with contemporary composers from the new world – all inspired by ancient Latin texts. Following Seraphour Voice Ensemble is Alexander Boldachev, a virtuoso-harpist and laureate of more than a dozen prestigious international competitions, who has performed at Carnegie Hall the Gaveau in Paris and the Great Hall of the Philharmonic in St. Petersburg and will inspire audiences with his musical journey through war and peace . Tandru Trio, The Clarinet Muse with artists Yasmina Spiegelberg, clarinet; Katelyn Vahala, piano; and Javier Iglesias Martin, cello, play with great energy and charisma through Southern California and were selected as the only ensemble from the USC Thornton School of Music to participate in the 2019 Harmos Festival in Porto, Portugal.

On April 23, the afternoon performances will feature Fiato String Quartet with artists Carrie Kennedy, violin; Joel Pargman, violin; Aaron Oltman, viola; and Ryan Sweeney, cello. They will celebrate the intersection of two most universally beloved art forms: film and music. This performance brings classical music via composers who influenced Hollywood. The finale with Sejin Park, baritone, an opera singer and Korean baritone, is the winner of numerous competitions and alumni of Palm Beach Opera Benenson Program, and will be singing Germont in La Traviata in New York this year. Park will be accompanied by pianist Hyemin Jeong and they will perform pieces from Rachmaninov, Ravel, Korngold and more.  

Seating is limited. For more information and tickets, visit www.beverlyhills.org/musicinthemansion. For more information on the artists, visit www.beverlyhills.org/musicinthemansion for artists’ biographies. 

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A Los Angeles City Council committee remained deadlocked this week regarding a motion to reconsider land use designation for the Bulgari Hotel project in Benedict Canyon. The motion requesting the director of planning to reconsider the designation will move to the full council for approval, but as a result of a 2-2 vote on March 21, there will be no recommendation from the city’s Planning and Land Use Committee. `

“Colleagues before us today is a motion that I introduced last week to put an end to development that many in my district and I have been fighting against for years,” Councilwoman for the 5th District Katy Yaroslavksy said. “And, I have been fighting against it for years.”

Yaroslavsky said her district is overwhelmingly opposed to the project, as is Mayor Karen Bass and environmental groups such as the Sierra Club and the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy.

“And from a land use perspective, allowing an intensive commercial use in a very low density, fire-prone residential area is a terrible idea,” Yaroslavsky said. “Nowhere in Los Angeles are we allowing new commercial uses in low-density hillside communities, specifically because of the wildfire and landslide risks.”

The project, introduced in 2018, would be located 9704-9712 West Oak Road. It includes plans for a 59-room hotel and eight single-family homes on an approximately 32.67-acre property, according to the motion. The hotel portion would include 18 buildings totaling 59 guest rooms, a standalone parking structure, funicular railway and a main hotel building including outdoor amenities, commercial space and subterranean parking. The residential portion of the site would contain eight single-family homes, ranging between 12,000 and 48,000 square feet with associated garage parking. Gary Safady, the developer proposing the project, said in published media reports that he was working to contain events on site “as much as possible, making the hotel seem to blend in with the environment.”

Safady also said events would be smaller in size than at two nearby hotels–the Hotel Bel-Air and the Beverly Hills Hotel–and that any removed trees would be replaced on a 4-to-1 basis. Safady, who called in during the meeting’s public comment period, urged the committee to allow for due process and further asked for accurate details to be made public about the project.

“This is why it’s critical for the process to continue to allow the public and responsible agencies to continue to review CEQA process and safety features,” he said.

More than 30 speakers called in to express their opposition to the project and most reiterated the same concerns Yaroslavsky mentioned in her comments. But a few Benedict Canyon residents and several representatives from labor unions encouraged the committee to support the hotel project, saying it would create job opportunities and allow for more Angelenos and visitors to experience the beauty of the canyon. Councilman John Lee, who voted against the motion, asked for clarification on whether the city had ever rescinded an amendment to the general plan for a development project, but staff from the Department of Planning could not provide answers.

Yaroslavsky, who said she had lengthy conversations with both the City’s Attorney’s Office and the Planning Department, said it was within the discretion of the department to rescind the process it had started, and added that the decision to do so cannot be arbitrary and capricious.

Councilwoman Monica Rodriguez, who also voted no, agreed with Lee that it’s important to allow for due process.

“There is a process and I’d like to stick to it, and be transparent and consistent about it,” Rodrigruez said. “I believe that an environmental impact review will substantiate all the concerns that are being raised in this process.”

Councilman Marqueece Harris-Dawson, who supported the motion along with Yaroslavsky, reiterated that the motion would ask the director of planning to consider rescinding the initiation of the amendment to the general plan, which would give the Bulgari Hotel a specific designation that would allow the commercial project to be developed in a residential area. It’s “not instructing or requesting,” he added. “This is a tricky project, that on one hand, people say well wait a little longer, which is sort of always the refrain when folks want more time to negotiate,” Harris-Dawson said.

“I suspect at the end of the EIR, people will want to wait a little longer for something else because the council is taking a strong stance and the neighborhood councils have taken a strong stance, and you know where they’re going to be,” he continued.

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The climate-activist group Third Act led a rally of seniors and other environmental organizations on March 21 in Beverly Hills “to pressure the major banks to stop financing the expansion of the fossil fuel industry.” Nearly 100 participants took part in the national day of action. The group met at Beverly Gardens Park and marched through the rainy city visiting Bank of America, Chase, Citibank and Wells Fargo bank branches.

The marchers chanted, carried signs and giant credit cards with scissors to highlight cutting ties with these banks. Signs noted the participation of Third Act, Elders Climate Action and Extinction Rebellion environmental groups in the protest. Extinction Rebellion LA’s historian, Amy Woodson Boulton, closed out the event by acknowledging the protestors and their efforts.

This rally was one of the more than 100 events which took place in over half the US states, involving art installations with activists cutting up their credit cards in protest of the billions of dollars in lending and underwriting that banks provide to fossil fuels companies and projects. These projects are responsible for harmful emissions that scientists have linked to extreme weather events which have caused death and destruction in the US and across the world.

The rally in Beverly Hills was held as California has been inundated with historic atmospheric rivers while simultaneously experiencing the biggest drought in a millennium, growing water shortages, a sharp increase in the intensity of forest fires across the state and growing instances of toxic air due to fossil fuel activities.

The day was organized by Third Act, a group for climate activists over 60 years of age, co-founded by Bill McKibben. In total, more than 50 partner organizations supported the day of action, including Elders Climate Action, Extinction Rebellion, the Sierra Club, GreenFaith, the Hip Hop Caucus, Union of Concerned Scientists, SoCal 350 Climate Action, Local 721 SEIU, Interfaith Power and Light, Dayenu and People’s Action.

Protestors noted that while US banks have verbally committed to help reach the global target of Net Zero emissions by 2050, none have published a credible transition plan or ruled out fossil fuel financing for expanding projects.

By contrast some European banks are making these commitments. In December HSBC, Europe’s largest bank, announced it would no longer finance new oil and gas projects. Danske Bank this year said it would stop financing oil and gas projects and corporate financing.

Over 17,000 customers have signed a pledge to move their money out of these banks if the banks don’t move their investments out of fossil fuel expansion, and these pledges were delivered to the banks’ CEOs. 

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