Business

Starting the New Year with Historical Awards

The Beverly Hills Cultural Heritage Commission kicked off 2022 by finalizing its three newest selections for the Golden Shield Award during its first regular meeting of the year on Jan. 12.

With Brisk Holiday Business, the Future Looks Bright in Beverly Hills

“We are fortunate, as a family business, to not have production issues,” Hagenburger said. “Yes, it’s a little slower and our deliveries are later than normal, but not ridiculous.

Hostess Gifts for the Home

From Tesora to Tiffany and TASCHEN, this is where to find the perfect last-minute gifts for your host or hostess in Beverly Hills.

Hostess Goodies for Foodies

BH Chamber of Commerce Applauds 100% Vaccinated Businesses

“I think [COVID] is probably the most devastating thing that could’ve happened to the local economy, if not the world, that we’ve all seen in many of our lifetimes, and hopefully it’s the last thing in our lifetimes,” said Johnson.

Rodeo Drive Committee Expands Executive Leadership

“My goal is to mentor and prepare new and dynamic leaders that will guide the street forward creatively, providing businesses with opportunities to network, share resources and explore innovative ways to expand in a safe, healthy and responsible way,” said Gohari.

Fairmont Century Plaza Debuts

The reimagined Fairmont Century Plaza will debut Sept. 27 as the centerpiece of a $2.5 B mixed-use project that includes two 44-story towers, 94,000 square feet of boutique shopping and 268 luxury residences.

Louis Vuitton Shows Off its Savoir Faire

Reminiscent of a Louis Vuitton workshop, one stage features a selection of the Maison’s trunks in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes, exotic leather goods, and made-to-order collectibles from the brand’s games and home collection.

Shop Local Program Rebranded

“For Beverly Hills, that shield shape is very powerful,” Josh Morgerman, co-founder of Symblaze, said. “People all over the LA Metro area and beyond, they know that shield as a Beverly Hills thing.”

Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Set for Nov. 18

“I think our goal is we want a wonderful holiday lighting evening,” Bosse said. “But the goal is to have a vibrant holiday experience from that day through the holidays.”

Commercial Vacancy Rate Remains High in Beverly Hills

“The city has outlined mixed use, the Purple Line is coming forth, One Beverly Hills, there is so much happening. Also on Wilshire a lot of mixed-used projects are moving forward, including more office space that’s being built … it’s a very comprehensive, healthy situation.”

GLAUDI’s Drive-Thru Fashion Show Brightens Brighton

“I feel like fashion shows are made to see in person, because you have to look at the clothes, you have to send a message through how you present your collection,” Hernandez told the Courier.

Trousdale Estate Nominated for Landmark Status

To qualify for the Registry, a building must meet several criteria listed in the 2012 Beverly Hills Historic Preservation Ordinance.

Euro Caffe Tradition Continues

Many of the observers that day had been coming to Euro Caffe for years to watch games. One of the regulars, Giacomo, works nearby at Celine. He’s from Italy and explained, “The Italian population is around 17 million.

SIXTY Hotel Gets Permits for Late-Night Rooftop Lounge

Jason Pomeranc, founder and owner of SIXTY Hotels, attributed the problems in the past to an “operational control issue.”

Jeanie Buss Honored at Rotary Club of Beverly Hills

At the first “in person” Rotary Club of Beverly Hills meeting of 2021 this past Monday, June 23, at The Beverly Hills Hotel, Jeanie Buss, controlling owner and president of the Los Angeles Lakers

Small Businesses in Beverly Hills Express Security Concerns

“I don’t think we need to rely on the BHPD or Ambassadors to help us with a rogue vagrant when we can prevent the issue by simply keeping our doors locked for the safety of our staff and clients,” Riceberg told the Courier.

Staying in Summer Style in Beverly Hills

The Courier surveyed 12 iconic hotels about new innovations, dining experiences and the ideal guest profile this summer.

Out and About In Beverly Hills: An Influencers’ Guide

Unlike last year, which was marked by closures and restrictions, this summer is colored by rebirth and reopening.

One Beverly Hills is Approved by City Council

 “This has been a very long journey and the outcome is very exciting,” Alagem told the Courier.

Local Luxury and Exotic Car Dealership Wins Prestigious Award

On May 14, Rolls-Royce Beverly Hills, a division of O’Gara Coach Company, was honored as Rolls-Royce North America’s 2020 Global Provenance Dealer of the Year as the number-one dealer for “previously owned” Rolls-Royce motorcars.

One Beverly Hills Project Moves Forward in City Council

A luxury hotel and condominium development that would reshape the City’s western Wilshire Boulevard and Santa Monica gateways.

Suspects in May 18 Anti- semitic Attack Released On Bail

Police made their first arrest in the evening of May 21 “at a residence outside the City of Los Angeles,” according to a statement, taking Pabon into custody with help from Los Angeles and Inland Empire teams from the United States Marshal Service taskforce.

Rotary Club in Action

Beverly Hills Chamber Hosts Spring Collaborative

“I would not use the inside of the restaurant for like a la carte business,” Puck noted, should the tent remain permanent.

Planning Commission Punts on One Beverly Hills

“The Planning Commission is unable to recommend whether or not the development agreement is consistent with the general plan, because the commissioners hold the differing views regarding consistency with the general plan and were unable to reach a consensus.”

Beverly Hills Approves Rosy Capital Improvement Budget

“I just want to make sure…that in funding these capital projects, we’re not going to short our general services and that we’re going to be able to provide services at the level that the community has come to expect,” Councilmember Julian Gold said.

OpenBH Extended to End of 2021

“It has facilitated outdoor operations for many businesses throughout town,” Laura Biery, Marketing and Economic Sustainability Manager for the city, said of the OpenBH program. “It’s included expansions onto sidewalks, parking lots, and some of the favorites, on-street parklets.”

Nazarian Shares Highlights of Year as Rotary Club President

One of my goals was to have as many members engaged and involved in our club as possible so we launched several new groups and committees.

City Council Discusses Big Priorities for New Fiscal Year

“We tried it. People love it. It is coming back to the City Council agenda very soon,” Mayor Robert Wunderlich promised. 

Planning Commission Holds Second Special Meeting on One Beverly Hills Project

“We delivered with the Waldorf Astoria everything we promised and more. The financial return exceeded the city’s estimates,” Alagem told the Commission.

First Public Hearing Held for One Beverly Hills Specific Plan

One Beverly Hills will offer two hours free public parking and promises to never close the park for private events at the hotel.  

New Business is Booming in Beverly Hills

Each year, the Chamber, in partnership with the city, travels to New York City in the fall and San Francisco in the spring to scout new businesses to bring into Beverly Hills.

Rotary Panel Looks at Future of Luxury Hotels

According to Luxury Hotel Advisors Co-Founder Carlos Lopes, industry analysts are predicting a return to peak pre-COVID-19 occupancy by 2023. Beverly Hills, however, has a slightly rosier forecast owing to its reputation and high-end offerings, Lopes said, estimating recovery by mid-2022.

Beverly Hills Estates of Mind

The inspiration even extends to the logo for The Beverly Hills Estates, which features a cheery script reminiscent of the Beverly Hills Hotel’s emerald-green signage.

New Budget Forecast and New Commissioners Introduced

“Assuming many of the one-time measures we employed in this year’s budget to reduce expenditures are reversed going into next year, we’re forecasting an approximate deficit of $4.6 million for next year and just under a million dollars for the following year,” said Muir. 

Planning Commission Examines Housing Solutions

“I think that if we can at least meet or exceed the state standards, we will be demonstrating good faith to HCD in our efforts to accommodate to the overriding purpose of the Rena allocation,” said Commissioner Thomas Hudnut.

Planning Commission Renews Permits for 9111 Wilshire

The application also requested approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for modified vehicle loading spaces and use of an off-site parking garage. Oakshire also sought approval of a Historic Incentive Permit (HIP) to allow use of a hotel that directly abuts a residential zone.

Three Beverly Hills Locations Recognized with Golden Shield

The first three recipients of Golden Shield recognition plaques include the site of the Dona Maria Rita Valdez de Villa Homestead, located at Sunset Boulevard and Alpine Drive; the original location of Lawry’s Restaurant on North La Cienega Boulevard; and the original Giorgio Beverly Hills Boutique, the first luxury boutique on Rodeo Drive.

Shooting at Il Pastaio

“I saw the guys wrestling. I thought it was just a drunken fight between friends or something. So I stood up, because I’m 6’ 4” and a giant, and I was walking over there to settle it down and then I hear one shot ring out,” he told the Courier.

City Council Considers Rent Subsidy

“When I see that our denial rate was 77 percent and our approval rate was 23 percent, that really is devastating in terms of percentages,” said Councilmember Lili Bosse. 

Human Relations Commission Discusses 2021 Work Plan

Last year the HRC added the homeless initiative to its charge. Since then, the Commission has implemented the homeless initiative into its monthly agenda. While the official homeless count this year was not conducted due to COVID-19, last year’s count was 16. According to James Latta, the city’s Human Services Administrator, two homeless people died in Beverly Hills over the last six months. 

Visionary Women presents: International Women’s Day Virtual Summit 2021

“We are honored to commemorate these iconic leaders, scholars, strategic thinkers and influential voices who have successfully served their own communities in their own unique way. Now more than ever, the wisdom and counsel offered on these crucial topics are most valuable to women and girls everywhere,” Visionary Women President Nina Kotick told the Courier.

A Trio of McLarens The Three Ami – GOES

Beverly Hills Holds Tenant’s Forum

One listener posed a hypothetical question about what would happen if they lost their job, but then received more money in unemployment benefits than they made at their former job. Would they qualify for eviction protections?

City Council Addresses COVID-19 Fallout

“When HBO moved from Santa Monica, they didn’t move to Beverly Hills,” Bergman said. He added that he expects major shifts in how Americans work in the wake of the pandemic, saying, “We’re going to see dramatic long term employment destruction.”

Dining for Valentines and Presidents

Despite the current restrictions, there have been crowds on Canon Drive and customers waiting online at many of the popular standbys. It’s clear that people want to be out experiencing a change of scenery and mingling a little with the community. Here are some options, from casual outings to date night dressy. 

Scoping Hearing Held for Beverly Hills Creative Offices Project

“I don’t see anything in your list of evaluation criteria that talks about how this is going to destroy the farmers market, a farmers market that many of us use every single week,” said Janice Barquist, echoing the concern of others in the meeting. 

Governor Newsom Extends Eviction Moratorium

In addition to providing aid to income-qualified tenants financially impacted by the pandemic, the program incentives property owners to forgive back rent.

Louis Vuitton Men’s Temporary Residency Arrives in Beverly Hills

When it became clear last year that fashion weeks would not go on as usual, global brands vied to outdo each other virtually. None incorporated as imaginative a means as Louis Vuitton Artistic Director Virgil Abloh.

Beverly Hills Prepares for Louis Vuitton Men’s Temporary Residency

The Louis Vuitton Men’s Temporary Residency most recently took shape at Miami’s Design District. Described as nothing short of “magic” by the local press, the activation utilized customized shipping containers, oversized inflatables and interactive QR codes.

Courier Exclusive: Louis Vuitton Men’s Temporary Residency Heading to Beverly Hills

“This exciting pop-up will add to the visual allure of the street and draw new visitors,” said RDC President Nicola Cagliata, in a letter of support.

High-Profile Projects Before Beverly Hills Planning Commission This Year

As Gohlich notes, “[Robinsons-May] was truly a world class department store and contributed in a significant way to the city and its development at that time.”

BHPD Suspects Rodeo Robberies are Connected

“Due to the on-scene investigation and immediate crime follow up, we believe the arrest [on Dec. 27] is connected to the Saint Laurent crime earlier in the week,” BHPD Spokesperson Lt. Max Subin told the Courier.

Rotary Club of BH Gives to Those in Need

“During these trying times, we were delighted to work in partnership with our community groups to bring a little bit of joy and excitement to the lives of innocent children who are less fortunate.

Jewish Community Foundation of L.A. Awards $3 Million

A Season of Giving

As 2020 comes to a close, the Beverly Hills Courier would like to recognize a number of entities that have impacted the lives of our community.

New Platform for Luxury Real Estate in Beverly Hills

“Top real estate industry professionals now have an opportunity to capitalize on the immense global reach of Forbes in the creation of an impactful luxury marketplace, which is owned and led by brokerages,” Bonnie Stone Sellers, who serves as Chair, said in a statement.

Restoring a Hollywood Legend in Beverly Hills

The Zaslavs’ purpose in restoring Woodland is to “ensure that the property is enjoyed in its original state for generations to come,” said Jason Somers, President of Crest Real Estate, who oversees the project.

The Gifting Scene in Beverly Hills

It’s been a challenging year and with stores open at only 20 percent capacity, shopping could also be tricky this holiday season as well.

Beverly Hills Community Grants Available

The last round of funding grants was awarded to 19 organizations that provide services to seniors, homeless, cover physical and mental health, culture and more.

Beverly Hills City Council to Review Closure of In-Person Restaurant Dining

The County modified its Health Order to allow only delivery, drive-thru services and takeout at restaurants, bars, breweries and wineries for a minimum of three weeks beginning at 10 p.m. Nov. 25.

Beverly Hills Hit Hard by New Dining Restrictions

“I have never experienced the kind of pushback I am hearing,” Hahn said of the in-person dining ban. “The public doesn’t think that that recommendation is right, and they don’t think it’s going to work, and they are really losing faith and trust in the decisions that we’re making.”

Final Work Finishing on BHUSD Oil Well Project

“Work is now in progress to address minor leaks on the two wells previously identified to require additional plugging work. This additional plugging work is anticipated to be completed by December 2020,” Beverly Hills Director of Public Works Shana Epstein told the Courier.

Holiday Dining Scene – Who is Open, What’s on the Menu and How to Book

When you need a break but can’t leave town, these debut dining ventures all evoke a strong sense of place and a much-needed dose of escapism.

Home For the Holidays

“I find that people are really decorating their homes tremendously this year.

Diamonds and Stars

“I think online is a space where you see more of the discount jewelry. In this business, people really want that personal touch. They want to try things on,” said Moon.

Beverly Hills Increases COVID Rent Aid

“These are desperate times, we’ve heard pleas from people, I think we can easily add another $550,000 to it,” said Mirisch, who was supported by Councilmember Lili Bosse.

Finance Committee Considers Changes to Bid Process

“In a City where demands are high for new projects and services, this would assist departments in being able to enter into these contracts more quickly, but with the same level of compliance required on an annual basis for obtaining quotes/formal bids, respectively based on the annual purchasing thresholds,” it reads.

Rent Stabilization Commission Examines Relocation Fees

At the outset of the discussion, Commission Chair Lou Milkowski described the subject as “a real meat-on-the-bone type of legislation for us to look at.”

Beverly Hills Chamber Hosts Virtual “Back to Business”

“We have the One Beverly Hills project, which is a combination of the old Wanda Robinson May project and the Beverly Hilton project, which is now one combined piece of property that is going to be developed,” said Friedman.

New Models Electrify the Auto Industry

Ford announced that it was creating an all-electric car some time ago.

Beverly Hills Considers Appeal to Housing Allotment

“For example, an ‘unrealistically high’ RHNA allocation based on market trends and lack of vacant land is not considered to be legitimate grounds for appeal,” the Staff Report reads.

COVID’s Unexpected Cosmetic Surgery Bump

“We can’t go out, we can’t go to parties, we don’t go to restaurants, we don’t dress up, we’re home in our pajamas and our robes,” said Koplin.

Williams & Williams to Launch Their Own Firm

They are also experienced designers and developers.

Beverly Hills Small Businesses Are Resilient

“We are trying to survive but we only have room for seven tables outside,” owner Saeyoung (aka Sara) told the Courier. 

Petersen Automotive Museum Gala Raises Record Funds

“Our 26th Annual Gala Celebration was our most successful gala to date,” said Petersen Automotive Museum Executive Director Terry L. Karges.

Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce Announces Golden Palm Honorees

This year’s winner is Courier Publisher John Bendheim. “John Bendheim is a staple in the community of Beverly Hills, both personally and professionally.

50 Years of Healthcare Helped by Beverly Hills

“It was poor,” Fern Seizer, a Beverly Hills resident and former Executive Director of the Clinic, told the Courier. “It was really medically underserved because there were very few doctors, and those who were there didn’t take Medi-Cal, which is Medicaid in California.”

Nate ‘n Al’s Continues Operations on North Beverly Drive

A joint statement released on Sept. 23 by the City of Beverly Hills and “Nate ‘n Al’s Then and Now” announced that the iconic Beverly Hills delicatessen, Nate ‘n Al’s, will remain open at its current location at 414 North Beverly Drive.

A Fashion Phenom in Beverly Hills

From Compton to Couture. From learning in sweat shops to presenting on the biggest Fashion Week runways around the world, Johana Hernandez is a Latinx millennial sensation.

BHPD Confiscates Nearly $3 Million in EDD Fraud Arrests

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the EDD has paid out more than $81.8 billion in unemployment benefits since March.

Beverly Center Paints the City

“Beverly Center is proud to partner with PTCP and this group of talented local artists to provide a public space to showcase their meaningful work as a way to create positive change in our community,” said Jackie Plaza, Marketing and Sponsorship Director of Beverly Center.

Rent Assistance Program Approved

“It’s not so much the assets,” Councilmember Dr. Julian Gold clarified, “it’s the amount of income the assets generate on a monthly basis.”

Flour Shop Opens in Beverly Hills

“We’ve been working on opening this location for about a year,” Holly Ohanessian, director of retail told the Courier.

Beverly Hills Avoids Setback in Cannabis Delivery Case

“The tentative decision doesn’t appear to affect the City of Beverly Hills since we do indeed have regulations in place,” he told the Courier.

Getaway for a Day, Close to Beverly Hills

If you’re craving a more urban atmosphere, missed during your annual culture trip to New York, downtown L.A. has new skyline offerings.

Beverly Hills Businesses Respond to City Fines

“I think we were cited because we had our spacing correct with the tables, but one of our guests moved his chair a little bit to a certain side where instead of being six feet apart, it was five feet eight inches or whatnot,” he added.

Beverly Hills Health and Safety Commission Talks Facts

“Some people don’t understand that when you do get close, a chin mask is not effective,” stated Health and Safety Commissioner Lee Hilborne at this week’s meeting.

City of Beverly Hills Cites 16 Businesses for COVID-19 Infractions

“All persons shall wear face coverings when they leave their homes or places of residence if that person has potential to come within six feet of another person not a member of their household,” wrote Beverly Hills Mayor Lester Friedman in a reminder email sent out on Friday. Face coverings must also be worn by all employees at businesses and restaurants in the City.

Protest on Behalf of Laid Off Workers at Chateau Marmont

One such worker had been a bellman for 23 years before being terminated and losing his health insurance.

Beverly Hills City Council Debates Subsidies and Closures

“The program has received positive feedback from the business community and residents alike,” states the July 21 staff report, which was authored by Marketing and Economic Sustainability Manager Laura Biery and Special Events and Filming Coordinator Magdalena Davis.

Beverly Hills Voters Could Find Sales Tax Measure on November Ballot

“It should be noted that the maximum sales tax rate increase in Beverly Hills could decline in future years below the 3/4 cents currently available due to other future county sales tax measures,” Owens warned the City Council.

Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Announces Six New Trustees

“We are thrilled to welcome these six remarkable leaders to our board of trustees,” said Ron Meyer, board chair and vice chairman of NBCUniversal.

Residents Oppose Proposed Senior Housing Facility Near Roxbury Park

“People view it as one neighborhood,” described Los Angeles resident Cheri Lewis, who has lived two blocks from Roxbury Park since 2004.

City Council Approves $418.8 Million Budget for Beverly Hills

One Beverly Hills Launches Application Process

At the turn of the 20th century, the tract that is now the dynamic corner of Wilshire and Santa Monica Boulevards was farmland. In the early 1920s, it housed a nursery that supplied the palm trees and other vegetation that eventually created the City landscape. 

Does Your Home Need a Technology Upgrade?

New Pocket Listing Guidelines Signal a Change in Beverly Hills

10 Last Minute Mother’s Day Gifts

Real Estate Practices During COVID-19

How Small Businesses are Helping Parents Keep Their Kids Busy

How to Donate Now

Local Heroes

Beverly Hills Market & Deli Carries On During the Crisis

Chamber of Commerce Taking Proactive Steps to Support Local Business

LVMH Unveils Plans for Cheval Blanc Beverly Hills Courier Worldwide Exclusive

Pendry Residences and Montage Continues West Coast Expansion

The Hilton $35 Million Dollar Renovation Debuts in April

Awards Season Hideaway at AKA in Beverly Hills

Montage Beverly Hills Acquired by Maybourne Hotel Group

Beverly Hills’ Wig Fairy Foundation Offers Help for Women Facing Hair Loss

Real Estate Roundup

Real Estate Roundup