Photo by Billy Bennight
Pink’s is Open for Business
Pink’s Hot Dogs will begin serving the hungry in Hollywood again. Eater Los Angeles reported that the venerable stand, which has been closed since March 15 due to the coronavirus pandemic, announced via social media that it would reopen on August 12. The post also outlined new health and safety protocols for diners. These include: plexiglass on the open-air counters between staff and diners; patio-only tables placed six feet apart; and the implementation of both a “front-door ambassador” and “full-time sanitizer monitor” to ensure the use of face masks by patrons. Pink’s will also begin taking phone orders and is looking into delivery options for the first time in its 80-year history.
Two significant changes: as Eater noted, the long line of customers that are a common sight to Pink’s may be either reduced or adjusted for social distancing. Additionally, the stand will only serve between 11 a.m. and 9 p.m. Adjust your schedules and cravings accordingly.
LA Sheriff’s Department Will Review Rifle Policy After Deputies Pull Guns on Teens
A viral video which shows deputies from the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department (LASD) drawing their weapons, including an AR-15, on a trio of Black teens who had been the victims of a robbery. Patch reported that the video, which has been viewed millions of times, was taken after witnesses contacted law enforcement after seeing the three teens were reportedly attacked by a homeless individual. Upon arriving at the scene, LASD deputies drew their guns on the three teens, despite witnesses stating that they were the ones who had been assaulted. Deputies can been seen shouting at bystanders to move away, and at least one of the teens was handcuffed. In a video posted on Twitter, Los Angeles County Sheriff Alex Villanueva said that he had reviewed the viral video and the matter “was being investigated.” Villanueva has reportedly directed a review of LASD rifle policy, as it pertains to the AR-15.
City of LA Program Will Distribute Emergency Relief Funds to Artists
The Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs will administer more than $300,000 in emergency relief funds to LA artists who are experiencing financial hardship due to the coronavirus pandemic. According to Los Angeles magazine, funds will be distributed by the department in the form of one-time payments between $500 and $1,000, and will be available to professional artists of all types. To qualify for the relief funds, applicants must demonstrate that the pandemic has caused direct financial hardship, and that the art created with the funds will be, in some manner, made available to the public (either online or in a public space). The article quoted Councilmember David Ryu, one of the program’s primary backers, who said that “The work of writers, musicians, painters, and all artists help make Los Angeles the vibrant and dynamic city we love. We need to be supporting these artists—and finding new ways to bring their creativity to the public.” Applications are now open and will continue until September 1, or when 600 artists have received funding. To apply, visit this link.
Virtual Screenings This Week and Beyond
Described as “the greatest jazz film ever made,” the 1958 documentary/concert film “Jazz on a Summer’s Day” is currently in virtual theaters across Los Angeles courtesy of Kino Marquee. The film, which was recently restored by IndieCollect, features a Who’s Who of jazz greats in performance at the 1958 Newport Jazz Festival, including Louis Armstrong, Thelonious Monk, Dinah Washington and the incredible Anita O’Day, as well as gospel legend Mahalia Jackson and rock and roll pioneer Chuck Berry. Tickets are $10 and will support participating theaters, including the Laemmle NoHo 7, Monica Film Center and elsewhere.
The American Cinematheque will host a free virtual screening of the the recent HBO drama “Bad Education,” starring Hugh Jackman, Allison Janney, and Ray Romano, on August 17 at 6pm, with director Cory Finley and writer Mike Makowsky featured in a Zoom Q&A after the film. RSVP here to receive a screening link.
And ArcLight Cinemas‘ ArcLight at the Drive-In series continues on August 19 with a special screening of the comedy “The Little Hours” at 8:30 pm at the Vineland Drive-in City of Industry. A live Q&A with director Jeff Baena and members of the film’s stellar cast – Aubrey Plaza, Alison Brie, Dave Franco and Fred Armisen – will follow, and attendees will get free refreshments from screening co-sponsors FIJI Water and Health-Ade Kombucha, as well as a free ArcLight Caramel Corn. Tickets are $55.
