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NoHo's Got 24 Plays in 10 Days—And That’s Just the Beginning

Make room on your calendar (and your camera roll)—this week’s full of fun, fixes, and local flair.

Author

Adam Kruze
July 10, 2025

I missed publishing an edition on Monday. That may start to happen a bit more frequently as I focus my efforts on adding value in other ways, like posting on Instagram, converting some of my articles into Facebook posts, and getting an event calendar added to the website. I’m also considering adding a business directory, so if you have a business you’d like to include in it, just hit reply and let me know! I read all the emails. I’m also looking for advertisers so if you have a business you’d like to get in front of almost 1,000 SFV residents, send me an email or reply to this.

Did You Know - The San Fernando Valley Spineflower was once believed to be extinct—vanished from the landscape for decades after its last documented sighting in 1929. But in a surprising twist, this tiny and delicate wildflower was rediscovered in 1999 at the Newhall Ranch development site. Since then, it’s become a botanical celebrity, symbolizing how even the rarest pieces of the Valley’s natural history can make a comeback.

🌿 Turning a Nursery Strip Into a Neighborhood Gem

Councilmember Imelda Padilla wants to give Arleta a green makeover by transforming a neglected 2.5-mile stretch of LADWP-owned land along Canterbury Avenue—known as the “Nursery Strip”—into usable open space.

The motion (Council File: 25-0746) calls for a shared-use and maintenance plan across 30 parcels, with regular cleanups, community engagement (including sessions in Spanish), and a site assessment to explore options like recreation areas, walking paths, and environmental restoration. It also aims to align with LA’s climate and equity goals.

📣 Our take? Time to take a page out of Burbank’s book and turn part of this strip into something like Whitnall Highway Park North and South and the Whitnall Highway Off Leash Dog Park. These parks are found under the same power lines that run through Arleta and have lots of open green space, walking trails, and a Calisthenics area. Arleta's pups (and people) deserve it.

🔥 Seniors: You Might Be Exempt from This New Fire Department Tax

If you’re a low-income senior (62+) who owns and lives in a home in LA County, you may be eligible for an exemption from Measure E, a new special tax supporting the LA County Fire Department.

Measure E could add 6 cents per square foot (excluding parking areas) to your property tax bill—but qualifying seniors can skip it entirely by applying for an exemption.

🗓️ Deadline: Forms must be postmarked by July 14, 2025
📬 Where to send it:
County of Los Angeles Fire Department
Planning Division
1320 North Eastern Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90063-3294

📞 Questions? Call (213) 466-5596 or visit fire.lacounty.gov/Measure-E for more details and the form.

Don’t miss this chance to save—especially in a time when every dollar counts.

🎟️ Single Tickets Now on Sale for The Soraya’s New Season!

The wait is over—single tickets to The Soraya’s upcoming season are officially available to the general public! After a month of early access for members, now’s your chance to snag seats at the lowest prices of the season—before the best ones are gone. The season runs from September into April of 2026. From the original Toy Story set to Live Music (it’s been 30 years! Now I feel old), Mariachi, Ballet, Jazz, Orchestra, African acrobatics… there’s something for everyone. I’ve personally never been to the Soraya and just learned about it when my child went to a Mexican ballet performance for a field trip last year.

Don’t sleep on it—grab your tickets now and lock in your night of culture, talent, and a little Valley magic.

Located on the Cal State Northridge campus, 18111 Nordhoff St, Northridge.

🔒 Free Gun Locks Available — No Questions Asked

In an effort to prevent gun-related accidents and promote safer households, the LA County Office of Violence Prevention (OVP) is giving away more than 60,000 cable gun locks in 2025 — completely free and no questions asked.

Whether you're a gun owner with kids at home, someone concerned about suicide prevention, or simply want to make sure your firearm is secure from theft, this is an easy and responsible step.

You’ve got two ways to get your free locks:

📨 Option 1: Get Locks by Mail (Completely Anonymous)

Fill out this quick anonymous form and receive up to two cable locks per household delivered right to your door. I filled this out myself, it’s as simple as entering your name, address, and selecting the quantity.

📍 Option 2: Pick Them Up In Person

Locks are available at participating LA County Medical Centers and Libraries — including the San Fernando Library right here in the Valley.

🚫 Reminder: Do NOT bring a firearm to pick up your lock. Weapons of any kind are prohibited at all distribution locations.

So if the San Fernando Library is a bit of a haul, skip the drive and just have them mailed. Either way, it’s free, easy, and might just save a life.

🕵️‍♀️ History, Cash, and Your Camera Roll: Burbank Launches Virtual Scavenger Hunt!

Feeling competitive? Got a smartphone and a mild obsession with quirky landmarks? You're in luck—Toluca Parlor #279 of the Native Daughters of the Golden West is hosting a virtual photo scavenger hunt that’s equal parts history lesson and California adventure.

And yes—there are cash prizes involved (and bragging rights, obviously).

📸 Here's the Mission (Should You Choose to Accept It):

Take one original photo in each of the seven categories below, label them with the date/place taken (must be in 2025), and email your submissions with your name, email, and phone number to:
📧 [email protected] by September 1, 2025.

🪙 Prizes:
🥇 1st Place: $50
🥈 2nd Place: $35
🥉 3rd Place: $25

And the 1st place winner will be published in The California Star, the Native Daughters’ official quarterly newspaper. Fame and fortune? Don’t mind if we do.

🧭 The Photo Categories:

  1. 📍 One of those iconic Native Daughters historic site plaques

  2. 🏛 A California Mission or El Camino Real Bell

  3. 🗿 A statue of a historic figure

  4. 🏰 A historic site (or a reenactment—yes, cosplay counts)

  5. 🌊 A lighthouse

  6. 🌲 A State Beach, State Park, or National Park

  7. 🌼 A California symbol—think state bird (Valley Quail) or flower (Golden Poppy)

🤔 Need a Reason to Join?

  • It's a chance to explore California with purpose—and maybe convince your kids it's an "educational road trip" instead of just dragging them to yet another mission.

  • You can win actual cash without having to sit through a game show.

  • It’s all virtual, so there’s no awkward mingling or potlucks involved.

💡 Pro tip: Get creative—photos are judged on artistic merit, so go wild with angles, filters, or even that dramatic lighting you only get at golden hour.

🗓️ Winners will be announced by September 30, so get those submissions in!

For more info, check out the article in myburbank.com, visit www.ndgw.org or scan the QR code on the flyer below (or just pretend you did and go straight to snapping photos).

🍭 Candeeland Pops Into Burbank

A new Candeeland indoor playground has landed at Burbank Town Center, turning the mall into a Willy Wonka–style wonderland for kids—complete with glowing tea rooms, plant “concerts,” cozy nooks, and room to run wild—all covered in vibrant, candy-colored décor.

It’s been super clean, bright, and spacious, and families report it's refreshingly not overcrowded. Great news for parents who want a sugar-fueled escape without the chaos.

Now, if they could just get the location over at Northridge Mall opened. It’s had a coming soon sign up for quite some time.

Check out the full write up with images over at myburbank.com.

🗳️ Have Thoughts About How LA County is Run? Now’s Your Chance to Speak Up

LA County has more than 10 million residents, 88 cities, 120+ unincorporated communities, and a budget that could make your head spin—$43 billion. And at the helm of all that? Just five elected Supervisors, who collectively control executive, legislative, and even judicial-like powers in our region.

In short: it’s a lot of power in very few hands.

Recently, the County has made some notable shifts, like giving the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) a stronger role in long-term planning and department coordination, and increasing oversight in areas like homelessness, public safety, and public health following pandemic-era criticism.

Now, officials want your feedback on how this governance structure is working—and whether changes might be needed. The County is inviting the public to complete a quick online survey that helps shape future reform efforts.

🔍 Why it matters:

  • County services affect everyone, whether you live in a city like Burbank or an unincorporated area like North Hills West.

  • They handle everything from public health and housing to libraries, fire protection, and even zoning rules.

  • This survey gives everyday residents (yes, you!) a voice in how the County is structured, funded, and held accountable.

💬 Pro tip: It’s not just a dry civics lesson. This is your chance to help decide if 5 people should continue running a $43B operation—or if it’s time to rethink the model.

👉 Click here to take the survey and make your voice heard. It only takes a few minutes—but could help shape how LA County serves its communities for decades to come.

🎭 NoHo Arts District Presents: 24 Plays in 10 Days! (SPF16)

Mark your calendars! From July 11–20, The Road Theatre Company's 16th Annual Summer Playwrights Festival (SPF16) lands in NoHo with a packed lineup: 24 staged play readings in just 10 days—a theatrical feast all in one convenient spot.

In a Valley where most theaters offer only occasional shows—many venues hosting just a handful of performances annually—this concentrated festival is a breath of fresh air. Whether you're a theater newbie or a seasoned lover of the stage, SPF16 delivers fast-paced variety and unparalleled access to new voices and stories from around the globe.

Why this is a can’t-miss event:

  • Nonstop variety: 24 unique readings back‑to‑back mean you can sample a wide range of new plays—think sampling, but for theater.

  • Community insight: Every reading is followed by a talk‑back with playwrights, directors, and cast—a rare chance to peek behind the creative curtain.

  • Unbeatable value: Grab a full 10‑day Festival Pass for just $75, or attend individual sessions for a suggested $15 donation.

  • Prime location: Happening at The Road Theatre in the vibrant NoHo Arts District—a hub with over 20 theaters, galleries, and live‑performance spaces—this festival emphasizes convenience and cultural richness

When: July 11-20, 2025

Where: The Road Theatre 10747 Magnolia Blvd, NoHo Arts District, CA 91601

🎉 Sunshine for a Cause: Family Fun Day in Tarzana

📅 Saturday, July 12 | 🕚 11:00 AM–3:00 PM
📍 Tarzana Community & Cultural Center, 19130 Ventura Blvd
🎟️ Adults $35 | Kids $25 | 2 & under FREE | Get Tickets

At first glance, the ticket price might make you pause—but hang tight: tacos and drinks are included, the entertainment lineup is stacked, and kids 2 and under get in free (so hey, maybe dust off that stroller and practice your “They’re just really advanced for their age” face). It also benefits breast cancer research, education, and support.

Expect bounce houses, carnival games, puppeteers, a magician, and yes—Blippi will be making an appearance! The event pictures feature the man himself (the second generation Blippi - if you know you know) but who knows if it’ll end up being a look-alike. Want something stronger than a juice box? An alcohol package is available for grownups who want to sip while the little ones bounce.

Hosted by A Cause for Entertainment, this first-ever summer family bash promises fun, food, and sunshine—all for a good cause.

😆 Comedy

  • Varietyville at Sea - Thursday, July 10th at 8pm The LA Connection, 3435 Magnolia Blvd, Burbank

  • Leslie Liao Thursday, July 10th, 2025 7:30pm Flappers Comedy Club Burbank - Main Room 102 E. Magnolia Blvd Burbank,

  • Don’t Tell Comedy - looks like there are still tickets available to this Friday’s “secret” comedy show. Location is provided to people with tickets the morning of the show - Sherman Oaks, CA Friday July 11th 8:30 p.m. Doors open @ 8 p.m.

  • Friday Nite Laughs - Fri, Jul 11 at 08:00 PM PDT at The Nitecap 2200 W Burbank Blvd, Ste B, Burbank

  • FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE - 07/11/2025 7:30 PM Door Time: 6:30 PM The Comedy Chateau 4615 Lankershim Blvd, North Hollywood

  • WE'RE SICK OF IT - 07/12/2025 8:00 PM Door Time: 7:00 PM The Comedy Chateau 4615 Lankershim Blvd, North Hollywood

  • John Campanelli Saturday, July 12th, 2025 7:00pm Flappers Comedy Club Burbank- Yoo Hoo Room 102 East Magnolia Burbank

  • Crowd Work With Rajiv Satyal Tue, Jul 15 at 08:00 PM PDT at The Nitecap 2200 W Burbank Blvd, Ste B, Burbank

🎭️Theatre and Performing Arts

  • The Impact of Dildos on a Funeral by Emma J. Latimer Sat, Jul 12, 2025, 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM SAWYER'S PLAYHOUSE at LOFT ENSEMBLE, 11031 Camarillo St, North Hollywood

  • The Nocturne Theatre’s Production Of Shrek: The Musical, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday Showings - The Nocturne Theatre 324 North Orange Street Glendale

  • Motel 66 - Sundays at 7:00pm Saturdays at 4:00pm The Group Rep 10900 Burbank Blvd. North Hollywood

  • BILL W. AND DR. BOB - Saturdays and Sundays through August 10th at 2:30 PM, Theatre 68 Arts Complex - The Beckett Theatre (Main Space), 5112 Lankershim Blvd, North Hollywood

  • The Guy Who Didn't Like Musicals - Plays Fridays thru Sundays July 11 - August 2 Fridays at 7pm Saturdays at 2pm and 7pm Sundays at 2pm El Portal Theatre, 5269 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood

📽️ Film

  • Street Food Cinema x Searchlight Pictures | A Complete Unknown - Free! Saturday, July 12, 2025, 6–11 p.m. 6:00 pm Doors open, food trucks, concession stand and bar available for cash purchases, 6:45 p.m. Music on the lawn, 8 p.m. Movie, The Autry Museum in Griffith Park 4700 Western Heritage Way

    Los Angeles

  • Movies On The Roof - Black Panther - $10! July 12 8:30pm, Westfield Fashion Square, 14006 Riverside Drive, Sherman Oaks, CA

  • Sovereign writer-director Christian Swegal and producer Nick Moceri will participate in Q&A's after the 1:30 P.M. screening at the Laemmle Town Center (Encino) on Sun., July 13, 17200 Ventura Blvd. Encino

🎵 Music

🤷 Other

  • CARS & STARS SATURDAY, JULY 12, 9- 11AM, BRING YOU CAR! JOHN CLAY WOLFE & ADAM CAROLLA Sagebrush Cantina 23527 Calabasas Rd, Calabasas, CA 91302

  • LA River Habitat Walk and nature journaling with The Tree People - Saturday, July 12, 2025 8:30 am 4250 Coldwater Canyon Ave, Studio City

  • Scholl Canyon Landfill Tour - Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM Location: Scholl Canyon Landfill. 3001 Scholl Canyon Rd, Glendale, CA 91206 Spots are limited — sign-up is required!

  • Bird Watching Walk in O'Melveny Park hosted by the San Fernando Valley Audubon Society Tuesday, July 15, 2025, 9am – 12pm O'Melveny Park Granada Hills, CA

⚠️ BEACH AREA WARNINGS (as of July 9th):

  • Solstice Creek at Dan Blocker County Beach - 100 yards up and down the coast from the creek.

  • Walnut Creek at Paradise Cove - 100 yards up and down the coast from the creek.

  • Ramirez Creek at Paradise Cove - 100 yards up and down the coast from the pier.

  • The Bel Air Bay Club at Will Rogers State Beach - 100 yards up and down the coast from the club border fence.

  • Mothers Beach in Marina Del Rey - Entire swim area.

  • Castlerock Storm Drain at Topanga County Beach - 100 yards up and down the coast from the storm drain.

  • Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica - 100 yards up and down the coast from the pier.

 These warnings have been issued due to bacterial levels exceeding health standards when last tested.

🧹 BEACH AREAS NOW CLEARED:

Warnings have been lifted for the following beach areas where recent sample results identified water quality levels within State standards:

  • Avalon Beach at Catalina Island, 50 feet west of the pier