CALGARY, Canada — 

First the Kings ran short on bodies Saturday night. Then they ran out of gas.

After building an early two-goal lead at the Scotiabank Saddledome, the Kings allowed four unanswered en route to a 4-3 loss to the Calgary Flames. It was their 11th consecutive road defeat, tying a franchise low set in 1970. And unlike their previous losses away from home, Saturday’s story unfolded in reverse — a strong start squandered by tired legs and a contentious mid-game ejection.

The controversial tipping point came late in the second period, when Kings forward Nikolai Prokhorkin took a high hit from Flames forward Zac Rinaldo. Prokhorkin was left lying on the ice for a few moments before being helped back to the dressing room. He returned for the third period; teammate Kyle Clifford, however, did not.

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As the game went into a television timeout with trainers tending to Prokhorkin, Clifford made his way toward Calgary’s bench. The 6-foot-2, 211-pound veteran, who was playing through an illness that kept him out of Friday’s loss in Edmonton, didn’t actually see Rinaldo’s hit in real time.

But “knowing that guy’s history,” Clifford said of Rinaldo, a fourth-liner with similar past incidents on his ledger, “he’s got a reputation for it.”

Clifford and Rinaldo stared each other down, shared a few words, then dropped the gloves. A linesman immediately got between them, breaking up the scrap before any punches were landed. Still, both players were ejected for fighting during an official timeout.

“I’ve never seen that in a timeout before; not in a long time,” Flames interim coach Geoff Ward said. “I was watching the girls trying to shovel the ice. They were terrified as these guys were getting ready to drop the gloves.

“According to Rino, Clifford asked him to go. He said, ‘Well, we can’t fight in a timeout,’ and [Clifford] goes, ‘Well, we’re going to fight anyway.’ So Rino went, ‘OK.’”

Clifford’s effort was appreciated — Kings coach Todd McLellan called it a “team move;” goalie Jack Campbell said he wasn’t surprised — but his absence was felt. With the Kings playing their eighth game in 13 days, McLellan had to make do being one player down. The team’s comeback bid suffered.

“We became a three-line team, basically, the second half of the game,” McLellan said. “Ran out of gas a little bit.”

At the time of Clifford’s ejection, the Kings already were behind 3-2, their first-period power-play tallies from Anze Kopitar and Drew Doughty answered by Flames goals from former King Milan Lucic, Rinaldo and Sean Monahan. Less than two minutes into the third, Dillon Dube added to Calgary’s advantage.

“When you’re tired, you’ve got to be really detailed,” McLellan said. “In those situations, we weren’t and they made us pay.”

A Matt Roy one-timer pulled the Kings back within one with more than 14 minutes to play, but it proved to be too little, too late in the team’s fourth consecutive defeat — all of which have been decided by one or two goals.

“A pretty honest effort again by the group,” McLellan said. “Moral victories aren’t what we aim for, but that’s what we’re taking out of the last two games. I thought we were pretty competitive in a lot of areas.”

Afterward, the Kings questioned why Rinaldo’s original hit on Prokhorkin, in which the Flames forward appeared to leave his feet and make contact with Prokhorkin’s head, wasn’t penalized. Clifford called it “dirty.” McLellan didn’t mince words either.

“Of course I looked at it, and you guys looked at it too,” McLellan said. “What usually happens is, one coach says, ‘I haven’t looked at it yet.’ The other says, ‘I think the player was in a vulnerable position. I think the head was targeted. I think the weight went up. I think the feet came off the ice.’ Figure out which coach was which.”

It only added to the sting of another road defeat, this one coming despite the Kings taking early control.

“We’ve played very well with the lead,” Doughty said. “After the first period with that good start, we felt pretty comfortable in here. Maybe too comfortable. Didn’t push enough in the second. Maybe sat back a little too much. Allowed them back in the game. … It’s getting painful.”

Hello, my name is John Cherwa and welcome back to our horse racing newsletter as we’re pretty sure who is going to win the 3-year-old colt Eclipse Award.

Before we get to trainer Bob Baffert’s dominance in the Los Alamitos Futurity and Starlet (and five-win day), let’s briefly talk about Maximum Security locking up the 3-year-old colt Eclipse Award by winning the Grade 1 $750,000 Cigar Mile at Aqueduct.

Maximum Security is best known as the only horse in the 145-year history of the Kentucky Derby to be disqualified from first on race day. It was his third Grade 1 win of the year, which includes the Florida Derby and Haskell. It was his third win in a row.

The colt went to the front and never looked in trouble. He took command on the far turn and breezed home. The winning margin was a hand-ridden 3 ½ lengths. Luiz Saez, his regular rider was in the saddle. And Jason Servis is the trainer.

“If the horse comes out of this race fine, then the Pegasus (Jan. 25 at Gulfstream) will be his next stop,” said Gary West, who co-owns the horse with is wife Mary. “My personal opinion is he ought to be the 3-year-old Eclipse Award winner. I don’t think anyone has the credentials he demonstrated throughout the entire year. He’s had setbacks with colic and fought through some things, but that was a pretty impressive race we saw there.”

eg. vs. i.e.

In Saturday’s newsletter I made a comment about how Rick Baedeker, in his letter to Gov. Gavin Newsom, used an eg. and I would have used an i.e. A couple of journalists, including Bob Kieckhefer, the UPI racing writer and expert on international racing, messaged me to say they were not the same thing, as I had said. What I said was they “mean” the same thing and I stand by it.

Eg. translates to “for example” and i.e. translates to “in other words.” In my little pea-brain I think the general concept is the same, although I will concede that if splitting hairs there is a slight difference. It got me thinking as to thousands of things you learn about the language as a journalist and how those things stick with you.

For example, (or is it in other words?), I was crushed when Webster’s made “host” a verb. I spent a lot of time changing sentences like, (not such as) “The Dodgers will host the Nationals.” to “The Dodgers will play host to the Nationals.” But then host became a verb because that’s how it was used when speaking.

Another one is the usage of “more than” and “over.” Over can be used as a physical position (“He towers over his opponent.”) or in conjunction with an age (“The race is for horses over 2.”). More than pretty much covers everything else. (“He ran more than a mile.”)

And, finally, for those who believe (not feel) they’ve had enough, there is one I won’t give up on. Drives me crazy to see learned people misuse “anxious” and “eager.” Here it is in a nutshell. Anxious is a word you use when you are dreading something. (“He is anxious about his meeting with the stewards.”) Eager is when you are looking forward to something. (“He is eager to get to the winner’s circle.”)

Or as you are thinking: “I’m going to get awful anxious if Cherwa keeps acting like he knows the language. I’m eager for him to stop.”

And, so I shall. Writing lesson is done.

CHRB rules reaction

And speaking of Baedeker’s letter to the Gov., my email blew up on Saturday. Just a scant few of you believed these measures were steps in the right direction. The overwhelming tone of things were that these were going to further weaken California racing, driving it to extinction.

The current hot-button issue is use of the whip. There are two proposals out there, both severely limiting its use. I’ve had several bettors tell me if whip use goes away then they will go away with it. It’s an optics issue mostly. No one wants to see a horse being whaled on down the stretch and that’s the perception racing is trying to erase.

Another thing brought up by a couple readers is there is no such thing as zero tolerance to any drug-tested medication. That’s true, so the CHRB will have to set minimum standards just so the testing falls in a margin of error.

These changes are a very emotional issues to those who follow California racing. How it ends up, we’ll have to wait and see.

Los Alamitos daytime review

Baffert won five of the nine races on Los Alamitos’ Saturday card. He thought it was the first time he did it since 1982 when he was training quarter horses at Prescott Downs in Arizona.

“I thought all five of these horses were live, but usually that means you’re lucky if you win one,” Baffert told Bob Mieszerski of Los Alamitos. “You never know. It worked out well.”

He won both stakes races and also won with Speed Pass (allowance/optional claimer), Message (a/oc) and Ra’ad (maiden special). But let’s get to his big wins.

Grade 2 $200,000 Los Alamitos Futurity: Baffert won this race for the 12^th time when Thousand Words was best in the 1 1/16 mile Kentucky Derby qualifying race. This was the sixth time the race has been held at Los Alamitos, previously at Hollywood Park, and Baffert has won all of them. The 2-year-old, running only his second race, stayed near the lead in the four-horse race and went to the front in the stretch. He did have to work for the win, beating Anneau d’Or by a neck.

Thousand Words paid $5.40 and $2.40. High Velocity, also trained by Baffert, was third and Wrecking Crew, who was eased, finished the field.

Here’s what the winning connections had to say.

Baffert (winning trainer): “Turning for home I thought I could run 1-2. But then I saw [Anneau d’Or] and I thought, ‘Oh no, he’s going to get us, but [Thousand Words] was game. When that horse came to him, he took off and when he came back after the race, he wasn’t even blowing hard. Distance isn’t going to be a problem. That’s impressive when they can win like that second time out.”

Flavien Prat (winning jockey): “He broke fine and relaxed perfectly. He was looking around a little bit when he made the lead, but when [Anneau d’Or] came to him, he regrouped and fought back.”

Grade 1 $300,000 Starlet: It was a tough race but Bast went to the lead and never gave it up despite being pressured by Donna Veloce, the heavy favorite. It was only a five-horse race. Bast paid $6.40 and $2.10. Donna Veloce was second followed by K P Dreamin, Gingham and Roadrunner’s Honor.

Here’s what the winning connections had to say.

Baffert (winning trainer): “She was doing so much better for this race than she was before the Breeders’ Cup [Juvenile Fillies]. I think the race before (a neck win in the Grade I Chandelier Sept. 27) took a lot out of her. She was training like she did at Del Mar. [The Juvenile Fillies] was my fault. I told [jockey John Velazquez] to get her into the race early and she got involved with some fast fractions. She did well to hang on for third because that track was so deep and tiring. We knew when we got her on this dirt surface, she would love it and she just bounced over it. Turning for home I was confident because she had been doing so well and her last work was so strong.”

Drayden Van Dyke (winning jockey): “She was going easy out there and really responded when I asked her in the stretch. The track was great [Saturday].”

Los Alamitos daytime preview

Here’s a trivia question for you. Which is the only track in the U.S. on Sunday with a graded stakes race? By the positioning of this question, the answer is pretty obvious. The Grade 3 $100,000 Bayakoa Stakes for fillies and mares going 1 1/16 miles is the feature race on this nine-race card beginning at 12:30 p.m.

The favorite, at 5-2, is Mirth for trainer Phil D’Amato and jockey Edwin Maldonado. She was sixth in the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Turf, but there is no turf course at Los Alamitos. She does have a Grade 1 win in the Rodeo at Santa Anita. She is five-for-17 lifetime.

Lady Subee is the second favorite, at 3-1, for John Sadler and Tyler Baze. She has won four-of-17 lifetime but her best win was a black type stakes, the Tranquility Lake at Del Mar. She was 10^th last out in a minor stakes at Santa Anita. Post is around 4 p.m.

Here are the field sizes, in order: 6, 6, 7, 9, 10, 8, 7, 8, 10 (2 also eligible).

Ciaran Thornton’s Lrc picks of the day

RACE THREE: No. 1 Heywoods Beach (10-1)

Heywoods Beach is a trainer John Sadler and owner Hronis Racing horse with Tyler Baze riding. Finished sixth, 10 lengths back in the debut on turf in October but the race proved strong with the first- and second-place horses returning to win. The colt cost $180k and races protected on Sunday. Baze is winning 36% for Sadler and the 10-1 morning line price is attractive in this wide-open race.

Saturday’s result: Ultimate Shiloh drifted out to 20-1 post time and looked a winner for half the race tracking the gate to wire winner in second until fading badly. Watch next out if they race this horse shorter.

Ciaran Thornton is the handicapper for Californiapick4.com, which offers daily full card picks, longshots of the day, best bets of the day.

Big races review

A look at graded stakes or races worth $100,000 or more on Saturday or late Friday.

Aqueduct (2): $150,000 Winter Memories Stakes, fillies 3-years-old, 1 1/16 miles on turf. Winner: Feel Glorious ($5.40)

Gulfstream (2): $110,000 Claiming Crown Express, 3 and up, 6 furlongs. Winner: Brother Chub ($22.40)

Aqueduct (4): $125,000 Autumn Days Stakes, fillies and mares 3 and up, 6 furlongs on turf. Winner: Saratoga Treasure ($37.80)

Gulfstream (4): $110,000 Claiming Crown Glass Slipper, fillies and mares 3 and up, 1 mile. Winner: Liza Star ($12.40)

Tampa Bay (3): $100,000 Inaugural Stakes, 2-year-olds, 6 furlongs. Winner: Zayno Boyz ($38.00)

Gulfstream (5): $110,000 Claiming Crown Distaff Dash, Fla-bred fillies and mares 3 and up, 5 furlongs on turf. Winner: Thinkin Cowtown ($8.00)

Aqueduct (6): Grade 3 $250,000 Go for Wand Handicap, fillies and mares 3 and up, 1 mile. Winner: Spiced Perfection ($4.80)

Gulfstream (6): $110,000 Claiming Crown Rapid Transit, 3 and up, 7 furlongs. Winner: Royal Squeeze ($7.80)

Gulfstream (7): $110,000 Claiming Crown Canterbury, 5 furlongs on turf. Winner: Shekky Shebaz ($2.60)

Aqueduct (8): Grade 2 $250,000 Demoiselle Stakes, fillies 2-years-old, 1 1/16 miles. Winner: Lake Avenue ($10.80)

Laurel (6): $100,000 Maryland Juvenile Filly Championship, Mary-bred fillies 2-year-olds, 7 furlongs. Winner: Hello Beautiful ($5.00)

Laurel (7): $100,000 Maryland Juvenile Futurity, Mary-bred 2-year-olds, 7 furlongs. Winner: Laddie Liam ($6.80)

Gulfstream (8): $110,000 Claiming Crown Iron Horse, 3 and up, 1 1/16 miles. Winner: Yes I see ($135.20)

Parx (8): $100,000 Pennsylvania Nursery Stakes, Penn-breds 2-year-olds, 7 furlongs. Winner: Hockey Puck ($29.80)

Aqueduct (9): Grade 2 $250,000 Remsen Stakes, 2-year-olds, 1 1/16 miles. Winner: Shotski ($19.60)

Gulfstream (9): $125,000 Claiming Crown Tiara, fillies and mares 3 and up, 1 1/16 miles on turf. Winner: Lucky Long ($9.40)

Aqueduct (10): Grade 1 $750,000 Cigar Mile, 3 and up, 1 mile. Winner: Maximum Security ($4.60)

Gulfstream (10): $200,000 Claiming Crown Jewel, 3 and up, 1 1/8 miles. Winner: Leitone ($3.80)

Los Alamitos (4): Grade 2 $200,000 Los Alamitos Futurity, 2-year-olds, 1 1/16 miles. Winner: Thousand Words ($5.40)

Tampa Bay (9): $100,000 Sandpiper Stakes, fillies 2-years-old, 6 furlongs. Winner: Lucezia ($4.00)

Gulfstream (11): $125,000 Claiming Crown Emerald, 3 and up, 1 1/16 miles on turf. Winner: Muggsamatic ($5.80)

Los Alamitos (7): Grade 1 $300,000 Starlet, fillies 2-years-old, 1 1/16 miles. Winner: Bast ($6.40)

Big races preview

A look at graded stakes or races worth $100,000 or more on Sunday. All times PST:

10:17 Aqueduct (4): $100,000 Garland of Roses Stakes, fillies and mares 3 and up, 6 furlongs. Favorite: Pauseforthecause (1-1)

11:37 Gulfstream (7): $100,000 Confraternity Caribbean Cup, Caribbean-breds 3 and up, 1 1/4 miles. Favorite: Kukulkan (2-5)

1:09 Gulfstream (10): $115,000 Caribbean Cup Speed, Caribbean-breds 3 and up, 6 furlongs. Favorite: Ferragamo (5-2)

1:44 Gulfstream (11): $300,000 Caribbean Classic, Caribbean-bred 3-year-olds, 1 1/8 miles. Favorite: Thibaut (7-2)

2:11 Woodbine (9): $125,000 Ontario Lassie Stakes, Ont-bred fillies 2-years-old, 1 1/16 miles. Favorite: Cool Shadows (2-1)

3:56 Los Alamitos (8): Grade 3 $100,000 Bayakoa Stakes, fillies and mares 3 and up, 1 1/16 miles. Favorite: Mirth (5-2)

Ed Burgart’s LA pick of the day

SIXTH RACE: No. 4 Mr Kelly (3-1)

He ran much better than looked in last fifth-place Los Alamitos Two Million trial outing when lugging out badly early from his outside post. He eventually leveled past the 1/16-pole when fifth vs. winner Runforyourlife, a two-time futurity first-place finisher this year. Two outs ago, Mr Kelly dropped a head photo in this maiden condition vs. Royally Significant, who next won a Golden State Million Futurity trial.

Final thoughts

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And now the stars of the show, Saturday’s results and Sunday’s entries

Los Alamitos Race Course Charts Results for Saturday, December 7.

Copyright 2019 by Equibase Company. Reproduction prohibited. Los Alamitos Race Course, Los Alamitos, California. 2nd day of a 8-day meet. Cloudy & Good

FIRST RACE.

5½ Furlongs. Purse: $12,000. Claiming. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Price $6,250. Time 22.22 45.63 57.58 1:04.03

Winner–Towards the Light Ch.g.5 by Munnings out of Golda M, by Orientate. Bred by James M. Lynch & Patrick H. Durbin (KY). Trainer: Kelly Castaneda. Owner: Castaneda, Kelly and Soto, Silvia. Mutuel Pool $69,451 Exacta Pool $30,602 Superfecta Pool $23,220 Trifecta Pool $24,672. Claimed–Bully for Eric by George Sharp. Trainer: Kerri Raven. Claimed–Seattle Encounter by Sides, Clary R and Valenzuela, Martin III. Trainer: Martin Valenzuela, III. Scratched–Dutt Bart.

TOWARDS THE LIGHT sped between horses to the early lead, set the pace a bit off the rail, fought back outside the runner-up in the stretch and inched away under left handed urging. RMANIE’S GREY SUIT saved ground stalking the pace, bid along the rail in the stretch and held second. BULLY FOR ERIC broke a bit slowly, pulled his way along to stalk the pace between horses on the backstretch and turn, came three wide into the stretch and was edged for the place. SEATTLE ENCOUNTER stalked three deep, came four wide into the stretch and lacked the needed rally. HARROVIAN chased outside a rival, came out into the stretch and did not rally. PURIANO stalked three deep, came out into the stretch and lacked a further response, then was unsaddled at the end of the stretch and vanned off. MI BOUCHON a step slow into stride, saved ground stalking the pace, came out into the stretch and weakened.

SECOND RACE.

1 Mile. Purse: $15,000. Maiden Claiming. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Prices $20,000-$18,000. Time 23.35 46.65 1:12.21 1:25.50 1:39.08

Winner–Spectator’s Dream B.r.3 by Take Charge Indy out of Sparky’s Dream, by Giant’s Causeway. Bred by Dixiana Farms LLC (KY). Trainer: Jesus Mendoza. Owner: Summer Knights Stables, Inc.. Mutuel Pool $74,684 Daily Double Pool $17,268 Exacta Pool $46,869 Superfecta Pool $31,939 Trifecta Pool $32,918. Scratched–none.

SPECTATOR’S DREAM angled in and dueled inside then off the rail on the backstretch, kicked clear on the second turn, drifted out into the stretch and just held under urging. FORT DODGE saved ground off the pace, came out into the stretch, angled back to the inside in the drive and finished well to just miss. DERBY STORM stalked outside a rival then inside on the second turn, came out into the stretch and held third. MALIBU MAGIC chased outside then alongside a rival, came three wide into the stretch, angled in some and was edged for the show. SHARPSHOOTINGEORGE settled outside a rival, came three wide into the stretch and lacked a rally. WESTERN FLYER chased off the rail then outside a rival, angled in some on the second turn and weakened. MERWIN’S MAGIC angled in and saved ground chasing the pace and gave way. ULTIMATE SHILO a bit washy at the gate, dueled outside the winner, dropped back on the second turn, drifted four wide into the stretch and had nothing left for the drive.

THIRD RACE.

1 1/16 Mile. Purse: $25,000. Starter Allowance. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Price $25,000. Time 23.34 47.06 1:11.64 1:37.32 1:44.46

Winner–Blue Dancer Dbb.g.7 by Bluegrass Cat out of Two Halos, by Saint Ballado. Bred by Keene Ridge Racing, LLC (KY). Trainer: Kerri Raven. Owner: Kerri Raven. Mutuel Pool $80,781 Daily Double Pool $9,843 Exacta Pool $40,947 Superfecta Pool $20,859 Trifecta Pool $27,176. Scratched–Single Me Out.

$1 Pick Three (5-4-7) paid $616.10. Pick Three Pool $28,265.

BLUE DANCER sped to the early lead, set the pace off the rail, dueled outside a rival on the second turn, drifted out some in the stretch but regained the lead and held between foes late under urging. MEISTERMIND came off the rail early to chase the pace, entered the stretch three deep and surged late outside foes. STREET TO INDY saved ground stalking the pace, bid inside on the second turn to take a short lead and fought back along the fence through the stretch. HOOTIE stalked off the rail then three deep leaving the backstretch and on the second turn and into the stretch, drifted in some in the drive and weakened. ARCH ANTHEM close up stalking the pace three deep, fell back on the second turn, came four wide into the stretch and weakened. BITTER RING HOME stalked a bit off the rail then between horses, continued just off the inside on the second turn, angled in through the drive and also weakened.

FOURTH RACE.

1 1/16 Mile. Purse: $200,000. ‘Los Alamitos Futurity’. Stakes. 2 year olds. Time 22.47 45.87 1:10.43 1:36.37 1:43.19

Winner–Thousand Words B.c.2 by Pioneerof the Nile out of Pomeroys Pistol, by Pomeroy. Bred by Hardacre Farm (FL). Trainer: Bob Baffert. Owner: Albaugh Family Stables LLC and Spendthrift Farm LLC. Mutuel Pool $167,876 Daily Double Pool $14,515 Exacta Pool $41,324 Trifecta Pool $23,969. Scratched–none.

$1 Pick Three (4-7-3) paid $127.70. Pick Three Pool $16,526.

THOUSAND WORDS stalked outside a rival then bid alongside the pacesetter to duel for the lead, took a short advantage in upper stretch, fought back between horses a furlong out, was briefly headed by the runner-up nearing the sixteenth pole and gamely prevailed under urging. ANNEAU D’OR saved ground stalking the pace, came out on the second turn and three deep into the stretch, bid three wide in the drive, momentarily put a head in front nearing the sixteenth pole and continued gamely to the end. HIGH VELOCITY tugged to the early lead and angled in, set the pace inside, dueled along the rail on the backstretch and second turn, fought back inside in the stretch and weakened late. WRECKING CREW broke a bit slowly, came out and went three wide into the first turn, stalked outside a rival, dropped back on the second turn, gave way and was eased in the drive. WRECKING CREW wore calks.

FIFTH RACE.

6 Furlongs. Purse: $45,000. Allowance Optional Claiming. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Price $40,000. Time 21.68 44.62 56.39 1:08.42

Winner–Speed Pass Dbb.g.3 by Bodemeister out of Julie Napp, by Curlin. Bred by Colts LLC (Roger W. Schipke) (KY). Trainer: Bob Baffert. Owner: Watson, Karl, Pegram, Michael E. and Weitman, Paul. Mutuel Pool $174,082 Daily Double Pool $23,197 Exacta Pool $92,582 Superfecta Pool $46,695 Trifecta Pool $64,393. Scratched–none.

$1 Pick Three (7-3-7) paid $51.10. Pick Three Pool $36,264. $1 Pick Four (4-7-3-7) 4 correct paid $373.80. Pick Four Pool $100,797. 50-Cent Pick Five (5-4-7-3-7) 5 correct paid $2,797.25. Pick Five Pool $250,454.

SPEED PASS stalked outside then alongside a rival, came three wide into the stretch, took the lead under left handed urging three wide in midstretch and drew clear. TOROSAY broke out a bit, dueled outside a rival, took the advantage in upper stretch, was between horses in midstretch and held second. MAKE IT A TRIPLE squeezed back at the break, chased off the rail, came three wide into the stretch and bested the others. ROGALLO forced out a bit at the start, stalked off the rail then between horses on the turn, came out into the stretch and lacked a rally. LEAGUE OF SHADOWS had good early speed and dueled inside but a bit off the rail, fought back in upper stretch and weakened. OWNING saved ground stalking the pace, continued inside on the turn and in the drive and also weakened. RICK’S DREAM chased outside then three deep on the turn, came four wide into the stretch and also weakened in the lane. ROGALLO and RICK’S DREAM wore calks.

SIXTH RACE.

1 Mile. Purse: $45,000. Allowance Optional Claiming. Fillies and Mares. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Price $50,000. Time 24.28 48.81 1:13.97 1:25.94 1:38.35

Winner–Message B.f.3 by Warrior’s Reward out of Song’n Dance, by Carson City. Bred by C. Kidder & N. Cole (KY). Trainer: Bob Baffert. Owner: Baoma Corporation. Mutuel Pool $83,355 Daily Double Pool $11,784 Exacta Pool $34,098 Superfecta Pool $8,453 Trifecta Pool $18,472. Scratched–Ms Peintour, Smoovie.

$1 Pick Three (3-7-3) paid $13.80. Pick Three Pool $45,127.

MESSAGE had speed inside and set a pressured pace, inched away a bit off the rail on the backstretch, responded when rivals bid again a half mile out, edged away again leaving the second turn, was shaken up with the reins to widen in the stretch and drew off under a couple taps of the whip and a hold late. MONGOLIAN EMPIRE saved ground stalking the pace throughout and edged a rival for the place. AMATARA prompted the pace three deep then stalked outside a rival, re-bid three wide a half mile out, stalked again leaving the second turn, came three wide into the stretch and was edged for second. MULHIMA (IRE) pressed the pace between horses then stalked off the rail, re-bid between foes a half mile out, continued off the inside on the second turn and weakened.

SEVENTH RACE.

1 1/16 Mile. Purse: $300,000. ‘Starlet Stakes’. Fillies. 2 year olds. Time 22.80 47.22 1:11.99 1:36.73 1:43.36

Winner–Bast B.f.2 by Uncle Mo out of Laffina, by Arch. Bred by BlackRidge Stables LLC (KY). Trainer: Bob Baffert. Owner: Baoma Corporation. Mutuel Pool $306,962 Daily Double Pool $15,184 Exacta Pool $77,588 Trifecta Pool $66,041. Scratched–none.

$1 Pick Three (7-3-2) paid $12.40. Pick Three Pool $44,165.

BAST had speed between horses then set a pressured pace inside then a bit off the rail, fought back under urging in midstretch, drifted out a bit from the whip a sixteenth out and held on gamely under steady handling late. DONNA VELOCE pressed the pace outside the winner throughout, fought back alongside that one through a long drive and continued gamely to the end. K P DREAMIN stalked three deep, came four wide into the stretch and edged a rival for the show. GINGHAM close up stalking the pace between horses, continued outside a rival into the stretch and was edged for third. ROADRUNNER’S HONOR saved ground tracking the leaders throughout and weakened in the drive.

EIGHTH RACE.

6 Furlongs. Purse: $40,000. Maiden Special Weight. 2 year olds. Time 21.60 45.15 57.47 1:10.12

Winner–Ra’ad B.c.2 by Twirling Candy out of Tough Market, by Suave. Bred by Machmer Hall (KY). Trainer: Bob Baffert. Owner: RRR Racing, Inc.. Mutuel Pool $145,496 Daily Double Pool $17,441 Exacta Pool $73,729 Superfecta Pool $45,498 Trifecta Pool $52,386. Scratched–My Sunshine.

$1 Pick Three (3-2-6) paid $11.30. Pick Three Pool $22,548.

RA’AD stalked three deep then outside a rival, came four wide into the stretch, rallied under left handed urging to collar the runner-up a sixteenth out and won clear under a hold late. PHAST PHAROAH sent between horses early and was quickly clear, set the pace off the rail, drifted inward in the stretch, could not match the winner but was clearly second best. OPUS EQUUS chased between horses, found the rail in the stretch and edged a rival late for the show. ABSOLUTE UNIT stalked a bit off the rail, came out into the stretch and lost third in the final stride. HALLOWED GIFT broke in and a bit slowly, went up between horses then chased a bit off the rail to the stretch and lacked a rally. MOONLIGHT BEACH stalked three deep, was three wide between foes into the stretch and weakened. WAR PATH saved ground throughout chasing the pace and weakened.

NINTH RACE.

5½ Furlongs. Purse: $21,000. Maiden Claiming. 2 year olds. Claiming Prices $50,000-$40,000. Time 21.96 45.73 58.12 1:05.04

Winner–Baltimore Beecho B.c.2 by Govenor Charlie out of Elusive Beauty, by Any Given Saturday. Bred by Victor Flores (CA). Trainer: Jorge Periban. Owner: Carrillo, Saul and Flores, Victor M.. Mutuel Pool $172,927 Daily Double Pool $45,012 Exacta Pool $95,437 Superfecta Pool $70,060 Super High Five Pool $14,063 Trifecta Pool $71,108. Scratched–He’s a Hit, Overkoter.

$1 Pick Three (2-6-10) paid $16.10. Pick Three Pool $64,963. $1 Pick Four (3-2-6/7-7/10/12) 4 correct paid $41.50. Pick Four Pool $302,624. $2 Pick Six (3-7-3-2-6/7-7/10/12) 5 out of 6 paid $14.20. $2 Pick Six (3-7-3-2-6/7-7/10/12) 6 correct paid $354.00. Pick Six Pool $113,722.

BALTIMORE BEECHO dueled three deep, took the lead outside the runner-up in upper stretch, inched away under urging and won clear. PAPA TONY had good early speed and dueled inside, drifted out into the stretch, fought back in upper stretch and held second. BEYOND PRECHER stalked a bit off the rail then inside on the turn, came out into the stretch and edged a rival late for the show. TIGER THE MAN had speed four wide then stalked off the rail, continued outside on the turn and three wide into the stretch and was edged for third. RADIO TIM dueled between horses, continued off he rail into the stretch and weakened. CHAMPS SUCCESS chased off the rail then between horses into the turn, angled to the inside leaving the turn and lacked the needed rally. RIDGE ROUTE broke in a bit, chased just off the inside then outside a rival into and on the turn and did not rally. ZEES EMPIRE settled outside then chased off the rail, came three wide into the stretch and lacked the necessary response. STARTLING hopped in a bit of an awkward start, chased off the rail on the backstretch and turn, came three wide into the stretch and weakened. TENGA’S GOLD broke a bit slowly and was squeezed back, saved ground off the pace, continued inside in the drive and also weakened.

Los Alamitos Race Course Entries for Sunday, December 8.

Los Alamitos Race Course, Los Alamitos, California. 3rd day of a 8-day meet.

FIRST RACE.

6 Furlongs. Purse: $17,000. Claiming. Fillies and Mares. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Prices $16,000-$14,000.

SECOND RACE.

5½ Furlongs. Purse: $40,000. Maiden Special Weight. Fillies and Mares. 3 year olds and up. State bred.

THIRD RACE.

1 Mile. Purse: $40,000. Maiden Special Weight. 2 year olds.

FOURTH RACE.

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5½ Furlongs. Purse: $21,000. Maiden Claiming. Fillies. 2 year olds. Claiming Prices $50,000-$40,000.

FIFTH RACE.

5½ Furlongs. Purse: $40,000. Maiden Special Weight. 3 year olds and up. State bred.

SIXTH RACE.

1 Mile. Purse: $16,000. Claiming. Fillies and Mares. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Prices $12,500-$10,500.

SEVENTH RACE.

1 Mile. Purse: $45,000. Allowance Optional Claiming. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Price $50,000.

EIGHTH RACE.

1 1/16 Mile. Purse: $100,000. ‘Bayakoa Stakes’. Fillies and Mares. 3 year olds and up.

NINTH RACE.

5½ Furlongs. Purse: $15,000. Maiden Claiming. Fillies and Mares. 3 year olds and up. Claiming Price $20,000.

A charity event Saturday night at the Rose Bowl to raise money for nonprofits serving homeless people will feature musical performances by Ziggy Marley, Randy Jackson, Meghan Trainor and others, part of a worldwide evening of solidarity with the less fortunate known as as “The World’s Big Sleep Out.”

Organizers of the event, hosted in Los Angeles by Charity On Top, hope to bring 50,000 people “sleeping out” in 50 cities across the globe and raise awareness and money to fight homelessness worldwide and for local charities that serve those living on the street, according to a news release.

Other musical guests scheduled to perform include Sean Kingston and Ellie Goulding. The night will also feature stories read by celebrities, including a “final bedtime story classic by Seth Green,” the news release said.

Homelessness is an all-consuming issue in Los Angeles County, with 95% of voters calling it a serious or very problem, according to a new poll conducted for the Los Angeles Times and the Los Angeles Business Council Institute. Homelessness increased by 12% in Los Angeles County this year to just shy of 59,000 people, while in the city of Los Angeles, the number soared to more than 36,000 for a 16% increase, according to local officials.

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Doors for Saturday’s event open at 4:30 p.m. Light rain is expected, so organizers advise bringing an umbrella.

POWAY, Calif. — 

A boil-water advisory in effect in Poway since Nov. 30, when discolored water was seen coming from taps in several parts of the North County suburban city, has been lifted after final tests confirmed the water was safe to drink, officials said.

The state’s Water Resources Control Board lifted the warning about 6 p.m. Friday and residents were notified quickly via numerous methods, including reverse 911 phone calls.

The action allows all restaurants, bars and other food-handling businesses in the city of about 50,000 people to reopen. Following the state advisory, the county’s Department of Environmental Health ordered them closed for public safety reasons, which was unprecedented in Poway’s history.

A few reopened over the last few days after obtaining temporary permits from the county that limited what and how food could be served. But most had remained dark for six days, leaving hundreds if not thousands of employees without a source of income.

Starting immediately, the county said, businesses can reopen after following some disinfecting and cleansing guidelines that include flushing their water lines for several minutes.

The lifting of the advisory also means all residents served by the city’s water system no longer need to boil their water before drinking or cooking. And distribution centers at City Hall and Lake Poway Park have now been closed after handing out hundreds of thousands of free bottles of water to residents.

“I’m thankful we’re back in business,” Mayor Steve Vaus said moments after the advisory was canceled.

“I’m thankful that all the folks at all the restaurants can get back to work. I’m going from here over to the Brigantine for an appetizer and then probably the Hamburger Factory for an entree.”

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The problem came about Nov. 28 and 29 when 2 inches of rain fell. A 48-inch storm water pipe that runs beneath the city’s clear well reservoir near Lake Poway and next to a water treatment plant, backed up causing storm water to leak into the reservoir.

Mud and residue then clouded the water as it was sent in pipes to homes. The state issued the advisory on the 30th in an abundance of caution until it could be sure the water was clean and safe. Numerous tests since showed no bacterial issues.

A representative of the state said two days ago that Poway will eventually be cited for what happened and be ordered to prepare redesign plans to make sure the clear well is no longer connected to the storm water pipe.

Sean Sterchi, San Diego district engineer for the state’s Water Resources Control Board division of drinking water, said modern regulations don’t allow for such connections, but the city’s facility was built in the 1960s before such requirements were in effect.

The city says the clear well and the rest of their water operation is routinely inspected by the state and never has any mention of a problem been made. Nevertheless, Sterchi said in an interview, now that the problem is known, it must be corrected.

A citation cannot be issued until an incident report has been submitted by the city to the state, officials said. Such a report must be filed within five business days after the end of the incident.

Jones writes for the San Diego Union-Tribune

As Common walked into a large dorm-style room at the California Rehabilitation Center in Norco, where men sleep on metal bunk beds with razor-thin mattresses, the Grammy Award-winning rapper and activist stopped for a moment to talk with one of the young inmates.

On top of his bunk bed was a portrait of Common that the man, Yusef Pierce, 32, had painted himself. There were also portraits of Jay-Z and slain rapper Nipsey Hussle.

“Wow,” Common said, as he eyed the painting of Hussle. “I love this. I just saw Nipsey’s father the other day. God bless his soul.”

But Pierce didn’t show much emotion.

The warden asked if she could take their picture as dozens of other inmates looked on. Common agreed, and both men posed for the cellphone photo.

Pierce still didn’t smile. Afterward, the men shook hands, and then the rapper left to meet other men at the facility.

Once Common was gone, Pierce let out a big grin. One of the other inmates said, “You better smile, you created that.”

Later, Common said society would not want men like Pierce to show their emotions. The stereotype, Common says, is that men like Pierce are simply a number in the system. But to him, they’re more than that. And he’s going to use his platform to show their humanity, he said.

On Friday, Common performed a concert for the inmates at the center. It was the ninth prison concert in the last two years for the Academy Award-winning rapper, who has championed social justice causes throughout his career. The concert was timed in part to coincide with the soon to be released movie “Just Mercy,” about a black death row inmate in Alabama who was wrongly convicted of killing a white woman.

But with the 2020 election also approaching, Common said it’s important to be visible promoting social justice reforms.

“The goal behind all of this is to give people hope,” Common said. “We need to make sure that we recognize these people as human beings. We want to wrap our arms around them and make sure that they know they’re loved.”

Common, 47, whose real name is Lonnie Corant Jaman Shuka Rashid Lynn, grew up in Chicago and said witnessing his uncles go through the criminal justice system is what sparked his interest in social justice. Reading the book “The New Jim Crow” heightened his awareness for criminal justice reform, he said.

In 2015, Common and John Legend won the Academy Award in the original song category for “Glory,” which they wrote for the movie “Selma,” a depiction of The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1960s campaign for voting rights. On stage that night, Legend recited a statistic that more black men were incarcerated today than there were slaves in the 1800s.

“That really hit me and made me want to get involved in help changing the conditions of people in the system,” Common told The Times as he walked off the stage Friday after a sound check. “I wanted to see the system for myself and to do anything I can do to prevent people from becoming a part of it.”

Soon afterward, Common called film producer Scott Budnick, who founded Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC), a criminal justice reform organization. The duo embarked on prison tours in 2017, talking to inmates and hearing testimonies of how they had changed while serving their sentences, but felt that aspect wasn’t being recognized on the outside.

After those visits, Common and Budnick decided to host prison concerts across the state while promoting success stories and lobbying for policy change. On the steps of the Capitol in Sacramento, Common performed a free concert after meeting with lawmakers to advocate for two juvenile justice reform bills. Former Gov. Jerry Brown signed those bills into law.

Friday’s concert for the center’s 3,000 inmates, staff members and friends was co-sponsored by the “Represent Justice”campaign, a movement tied to the release of “Just Mercy,” which Budnick produced. The movie, which is based on a true story, stars Michael B. Jordan and Jamie Foxx.

Before the concert, Common, ARC staff and about 50 inmates engaged in a round-table discussion, talking about how they’ve changed and what they hope to do when they are released.

Mario Contreras-Navarro, 32, who has served 13 years for attempted murder, talked about how he recognized Matthew Conant, 47, an ARC employee who was released from prison on parole two years ago. In a powder blue prison uniform, Contreras-Navarro noted how he and Conant once served time in the same facility. Now, he was wearing a black ARC sweatshirt.

“Where did you get those clothes from?”Contreras-Navarro asked Conant jokingly from across the room. “You and I were just wearing blue together?”

Contreras-Navarro said the concert and the discussion changed his way of thinking. He thanked Common for his empathy.

“I feel really blessed right now,” Contreras-Navarro told The Times. “This gives us hope, and some people may think we don’t deserve that. It’s just a beautiful thing from a beautiful person.”

Throughout the concert, Common, dressed in a hoodie that said “Beast Mode to Peace Mode,” slipped into freestyles between his set list. In one of them, he recounted the stories of those he met, saying that the improvement they made behind bars would help make the world better once they get out.

As he spoke, two inmates wrapped their arms around each other, smiled and said, “We’re next.”

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SAN DIEGO — 

The USS Midway Museum hosted its annual Pearl Harbor ceremony Saturday, and how the story of the attack on the morning of Dec. 7, 1941, gets told is shifting as the number of survivors dwindles.

It used to be that all the attention went to the service members who were on the island of Oahu that morning and suddenly found themselves at war. Surviving that horror — 2,400 dead, 1,200 injured — made them heroes at the Midway commemorations in San Diego, which started 15 years ago. They gave speeches and tossed memorial wreaths off the flight deck.

Ten years ago, there were about 20 survivors at the ceremony. Saturday, there was one: Clayton Schenkelberg. He’s 102, and in a wheelchair. When it came time for the wreath, his son rolled him to the edge of the flight deck, where his great-grandson did the tossing.

The torch of remembrance is being passed.

“It will be sad when everybody’s gone,” said Pat Thompson, a San Diegan who was a 10-year-old girl living with her Navy radioman father at Pearl Harbor when the Japanese planes arrived 78 years ago. She thought they were American and went outside to wave.

Thompson and another “child survivor” were singled out in the audience by Scott McGaugh, the Midway’s marketing director, who emceed the ceremony. Several times during his remarks, he talked about the families of the servicemen and what they endured during and after the attack.

Thousands of spouses and children were evacuated to the mainland, he said, while others stayed in Hawaii amid rumors that another invasion was coming, or that the water supply had been poisoned. There were air-raid practices at school, and black-out curtains at home. Even children were required to carry ID cards, complete with fingerprints.

“Imagine the uncertainty,” McGaugh said. “They all exhibited a quiet heroism in their own way.”

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The ceremony drew several hundred people, a smaller crowd than in previous years, probably because of the rain, which grounded a planned airplane fly-over. It sent many of the guests for cover under the wings of aircraft parked on the flight deck and forced the organizers to move up the wreath toss by about 20 minutes; they usually aim it for 9:55 a.m., the minute the Japanese planes first swarmed Pearl Harbor.

But the rain didn’t keep people from rising spontaneously to give Schenkelberg a standing ovation when he was introduced. He attended with his son, Patrick; two grandsons, Shaun and Todd; and his great-grandson, also named Patrick. The grandsons and great-grandson are retired or active-duty military, all Navy, and they were there in uniform. To follow in the footsteps of someone who was at Pearl Harbor, Shaun said, is “very humbling.”

During the attack, Schenkelberg was stationed at a Navy submarine base. Fearing what would happen if Japanese bombs hit a stockpile of torpedoes sitting on a railroad car, he drove the train to a safe spot. Then he dodged enemy bullets while making his way back to the base.

First-hand accounts like that have always animated our understanding of World War II, McGaugh said, and “when that history is gone, the story will change. That presents challenges for us. But the lessons of Pearl Harbor and what came after it will be no less important, no less poignant, and it will be up to the rest of us to find new ways to continue to tell those stories.”

Saturday’s featured speaker was Karl Zingheim, the Midway Museum’s historian, and his talk connected the past to the future, too, reminding the audience of how galvanized and united America became in the aftermath of the Japanese attack: “Everyone pitching in,” he said, “in every conceivable way.”

Wilkens writes for the San Diego Union Tribune

Here is a list of dance performances in L.A. for Dec. 8-15:

Debbie Allen’s Hot Chocolate Nutcracker The Debbie Allen Dance Academy is joined by Raven-Symone, Tichina Arnold and others. Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, 1935 E. Manhattan Beach Blvd., Redondo Beach. Sun., 2 p.m. $40-$110. thehotchocolatenutcracker.com

Iron Women Donna Sternberg & Dancers stage this site-specific inspired by the current exhibit “The Medea Insurrection: Radical Women Artists Behind the Iron Curtain.” The Wende Museum, 10808 Culver Blvd., Culver City. Sun., 3 p.m. Free. (310) 260-1198. dsdancers.com

Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake The British choreographer’s reimagining of the Tchaikovsky dance fable returns. Ahmanson Theater, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. Sun., next Sun., 1 and 7 p.m.; Tue.-Wed., Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2:30 and 8 p.m.; ends Jan. 5. $35-$145. (213) 972-4400. CenterTheatreGroup.org

Noche de Triana Lakshmi “La Chimi” Basile, Misuda Cohen, Timo Nuñez and Bianca Rodriguez are the featured dancers in this Forever Flamenco presentation. The Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Ave., L.A. Sun., 8 p.m. $30-$50. (323) 663-1525. fountaintheatre.com

The Nutcracker Aspen Santa Fe Ballet is joined by Encino’s Los Angeles Youth Ballet and guest dancers. Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge. Sun., 3 p.m. $49 and up. (818) 677-3000. thesoraya.org

The Nutcracker Festival Ballet Theatre performs with guest dancers from San Francisco Ballet, Ballet West and Joffrey Ballet. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine. Sun., 1 p.m.; Fri., 7 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7 p.m.; next Sun., 1 and 6 p.m.; ends Dec. 24. $45-$90. (949) 854-4646. thebarclay.org

The Nutcracker Inland Pacific Ballet’s locally touring production. Lewis Family Playhouse, 12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga. Sun., 2 p.m. Also at Fox Performing Arts Center, 3801 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside. Sat., 2 and 7:30 p.m.; next Sun., 2 p.m. $39 and up; discounts available. ipballet.org (Also in Claremont, Dec. 21-22)

The Nutcracker Los Angeles Ballet’s annual locally touring production sets the holiday tale in the City of Angels circa 1912. Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale. Sun., 2 p.m. Also at Royce Hall, UCLA, 10745 Dickson Court, Westwood. Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat.-next Sun., noon and 5 p.m. $34-$109; 10% discount for students, children, seniors and military. (310) 998-7782. losangelesballet.org (Also in Hollywood, Dec. 20-24; and Redondo Beach, Dec. 28-29)

The Nutcracker Marat Daukayev Ballet Theatre performs. The Luckman Theatre, Cal State LA, 5151 State University Drive, L.A. Sun., 11:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7 p.m.; next Sun., 2 p.m. $42-$64. (800) 838-3006. Maratdaukayev.com

The Nutcracker Westside Ballet of Santa Monica, with special guests including New York City Ballet soloist Savannah Lowery, performs with a live orchestra. The Broad Stage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. Sun., 1 and 5 p.m. $45. (800) 595-4849. westsideballet.tix.com

The Nutcracker Suite American Contemporary Ballet puts its own spin on the holiday favorite in this intimate and immersive show. Metropolis Los Angeles, Upper Level, 877 S. Francisco St., downtown Los Angeles. Sun., next Sun., 2 and 5 p.m.; Thu.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 5 p.m.; ends Dec. 24. $55-$137. acbdances.com

Solo Fete Dancers from Pasadena Civic Ballet perform. AGBU Vatche & Tamar Manoukian Performing Arts Center, 2495 E. Mountain St., Pasadena. Sun., 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. $15. agbupac.org

Nochebuena: Christmas Eve in Mexico Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles performs with Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar. Musco Center for the Arts, Chapman University, 415 N. Glassell, Orange. Wed., 7:30 p.m. $25-$58. (844) 626-8726. muscocenter.org

What Remains Heidi Duckler Dance premieres this experimental, site-specific mix of dance and opera inspired by the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, the writings of poet Ranier Maria Rilke and a short story about life in East Germany by author Christa Wolf. The Wende Museum, 10808 Culver Blvd., Culver City. Thu.-Fri., 7 p.m. $35, $50. heididuckler.org

I Share the Body Avant garde works by Jordi, Matias Anaya, Julienne Mackey, Dominique McDougal, Sy Anon, Devon’te Jameson and Ironstone. Highways Performance Space, 1651 18th St., Santa Monica. Fri., 8:30 p.m. $15, $20. highwaysperformance.org

The Nutcracker American Ballet Theatre returns with its spectacular staging of the holiday favorite, with Pacific Symphony performing Tchaikovsky’s classic score; with featured dancers including Misty Copeland. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. Fri., 7 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7 p.m.; next Sun., 12:30 and 5:30 p.m.; ends Dec. 22. $29 and up. (714) 556-2787. scfta.org

The Nutty Nutcracker Inland Pacific Ballet’s family-friendly spoof of the holiday favorite. Fox Performing Arts Center, 3801 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside. Fri., 7:30 p.m. $39 and up; discounts available. ipballet.org (Also in Claremont, Dec. 20)

Things to do

Holidays Around the World Two-day event features Mexican ballet folklorico, Bollywood dance, German folk dances, Chinese lion dance, plus live music and more. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Julianne and George Argyros Plaza, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. Sat.-next Sun., 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Free. (714) 556-2787. scfta.org

Navidad en Whittier Danza Floricanto/USA performs traditional Mexican folk dancing in this holiday show. Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, 6760 Painter Ave., Whittier. Sat., 7:30 p.m. $20, $25. (562) 907-4203. shannoncenter.org

Nochebuena Latin-flavored holiday celebration with Ballet Folklórico de Los Ángeles, Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar and vocalist Eugenia León, a.k.a. “La Diva de México.” Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge. Sat., 3 and 8 p.m. $39-$86. (818) 677-3000. thesoraya.org

The Nutcracker California Dance Ensemble performs. Calabasas Performing Arts Education Center, 22855 W. Mulholland Highway, Calabasas. Sat., 2 and 7 p.m.; next Sun., 1 and 5:30 p.m. $22-$37; discounts available. CaliforniaDanceEnsemble.org

The Nutcracker Long Beach Ballet performs with a full symphony orchestra. Terrace Theater, Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center, 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach. Sat., 2 and 7:30 p.m.; next Sun., 2 p.m.; ends Dec. 22. $34-$115. (877) 852-3177. longbeachballet.com

The Nutcracker Palos Verdes Ballet performs. Norris Theatre, 27570 Norris Center Drive, Rolling Hills Estates. Sat., 7 p.m.; next Sun., 1 and 5 p.m. $28, $39. (310) 544-0403. palosverdesballet.org

The Nutcracker Pasadena Dance Theatre performs. San Gabriel Mission Playhouse, 320 S. Mission Drive, San Gabriel. Sat.-next Sun., 2 p.m.; ends Dec. 23. $22-$68. (626) 683-3459. PDTNutcracker.com

The Nutcracker Conejo Civic Ballet performs. Fred Kavli Theatre, Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. Next Sun., 1:30 p.m. $20-$36. (800) 745-3000. ticketmaster.com

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Here is a list of theater openings, Critics’ Choices, etc., for Dec. 8-15. Capsule reviews are by Charles McNulty (C.M.), Philip Brandes (P.B.), F. Kathleen Foley (F.K.F.), Margaret Gray (M.G.) and Daryl H. Miller (D.H.M.).

Openings

Story Pirates Musical sketch comedy show for ages 5 and up. Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Promenade Terrace, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. Sun., 11 a.m. Free. (310) 746-4000. TheWallis.org

The Living Room Series Staged reading of Dianne Nora’s “Monica: This Is Not a Play About Monica Lewinsky.” The Blank’s 2nd Stage Theatre, 6500 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. Mon., 8 p.m. $15 suggested donation. (323) 661-9827. theblank.com

Rose and Walsh Staged reading of Neil Simon’s romantic drama about two famous literary figures. Sierra Madre Playhouse, 87 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre. Mon., 7 p.m. $5 suggested donation. (626) 355-4318. sierramadreplayhouse.org

A Broadway Holiday! Musical theater veteran David Burnham shares songs and stories. Catalina Bar & Grill, 6725 W. Sunset Blvd., Hollywood. Tue., 8:30 p.m. $25–$60; food and drink minimums apply. (866) 466-2210. catalinajazzclub.com

Center Theatre Group Library Play Reading Series “La Navidad del Mojado” by Rubén Amavizca-Murúa; performed in Spanish. Benjamin Franklin Library, 2200 E. 1st St., L.A.Tue., 6 p.m. Also at Malabar Library, 2801 Wabash Ave., L.A. Wed., 6 p.m.; and Robert Louis Stevenson Library, 803 Spence St., L.A. Thu., 6 p.m. Free. CenterTheatreGroup.org

Otto Frank Theater artist Roger Guenveur Smith performs in this solo show inspired by the father of Anne Frank, the young Jewish girl who kept a diary of her experiences while she and her family hid from the Nazis in an Amsterdam attic. Bootleg Theater, 2220 Beverly Blvd., L.A. Tue.-Wed., 7:30 p.m. $20. bootlegtheater.org

Veterans Speak Up Armed services members share their stories in this event co-presented by Chance Theater; for ages 13 and up. Richard Nixon Presidential Library, Theater 37, 18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda. Tue., 7:30 p.m. Free. chancetheater.com

Christmas With a Z! Dana Gould, in the guise of Dr. Zaius from the film “Planet of the Apes,” hosts this fundraiser/variety show featuring comedian Natasha Leggero, 7-foot clown Puddles Pity Party, et al.; for ages 21 and up only. The Satellite, 1717 Silver Lake Blvd., Silver Lake. Wed., 8 p.m. $50 and up. www.TheSatelliteLA.com

Tis the Season: Amanda McBroom in Concert with Michele Brourman and Friends The songwriter (“The Rose”) and guests perform holiday favorites and more. Feinstein’s at Vitello’s, 4349 Tujunga Ave., Studio City. Wed., 8 p.m. $40-$50; food and drink minimums apply. (818) 769-0905. eventbrite.com

A Charlie Brown Christmas Stage adaptation of the beloved animated TV special featuring the Peanuts characters created by Charles M. Schulz. Chance Theater, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim. Thu.-Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat.-next Sun., 1, 2:30, 6 and 7:30 p.m.; ends Dec. 29. $21-$35; discounts available. (888) 455-4212. ChanceTheater.com

Quick Creation Festival New short plays in two distinct programs. Son of Semele Theater, 3301 Beverly Blvd., L.A. Thu.-next Sun., 5 and 8 p.m. $15. (213) 351-3507. sonofsemele.org

Broadway Lights the Holidays 3-D Theatricals presents this stage show featuring special guests, seasonal favorites, a reading of “Twas the Night Before Christmas” and more. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 18000 Park Plaza Drive, Cerritos. Fri., 8 p.m. $25-$150. (562) 916-8500. cerritoscenter.com

A Christmas Carol Thousand Oaks Repertory stages Dickens’ tale. Scherr Forum Theatre, Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, 2100 Thousand Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks. Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7:30 p.m.; next Sun., 7:30 p.m. $30. (800) 745-3000. ticketmaster.com

A Christmas Carole King Troubadour Theater Company’s latest comedic mashup blends the singer-songwriter’s hits with Dickens’ holiday fable. El Portal Theatre, 5269 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood. Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 4 and 8 p.m.; next Sun., 4 p.m.; ends Dec. 22. $50-$75. (866) 811-4111. elportaltheatre.com

The Christmas Present A divorced businessman and a prostitute spend the holiday in a posh London hotel room in Guy Picot’s dark comedy. The Broadwater Black Box, 6322 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. Fri.-Sat., 8p.m.; next Sun., 4 and 8 p.m.; ends Dec. 22. $18. (800) 838-3006. brownpapertickets.com

Cirque Dreams Holidaze Acrobats, aerialists and others perform in this family-friendly show. Dolby Theatre, 6801 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., 3 and 7:30 p.m.; next Sun., 2 p.m. $34-$130. (800) 745-3000. Ticketmaster.com

It’s a Wonderful Christmas Carol Bravo Company spoofs classic holiday stories, movies, cartoons, variety shows, etc. Long Beach Playhouse, Studio Theatre, 5021 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach. Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m. $20. (562) 494-1014. lbplayhouse.org

Ledisi: The Legend of Little Girl Blue The singer explores the influence of jazz great Nina Simone on her own artistry. Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, Lovelace Studio Theater, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2:30 and 8 p.m.; next Sun., 2:30 and 7:30 p.m.; ends Dec. 29. $30-$75. (310) 746-4000. thewallis.org

Marvels of Magic Workshop production of Andrew Simmons’ new drama about up-and-coming illusionists. Hudson Mainstage Theatre, 6539 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood. Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m.; next Sun., 3 p.m. $35, $50. marvelsofmagicshow.com

A Snow White Christmas The classic fairy tale gets a silly makeover in this family-friendly song- and dance-filled show in the style of a British holiday panto; with Michelle Williams, and a pre-recorded performance by Neil Patrick Harris as the magic mirror. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena. Fri., 7 p.m.; Sat.-next Sun., 1 and 5 p.m.; ends Dec. 22. $28 and up. (626) 449-7360. thepasadenacivic.com

Things to do

Aleichem Sholom! The Wit and Wisdom of Sholom Aleichem Musical inspired by the life and times of the Yiddish humorist. The Other Space at Santa Monica Playhouse, 1211 4th St., Santa Monica. Sat., 3 p.m. $35. (310) 394-9779. santamonicaplayhouse.com

Colors of Christmas Holiday show with veteran entertainers Peabo Bryson, Ben Vereen, Oleta Adams, and Jody Watley. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 18000 Park Plaza Drive, Cerritos. Sat., 8 p.m. $55-$100. (562) 916-8500. cerritoscenter.com

Dickens Holiday Celebration Includes actors portraying characters from various Dickens novels, plus three performances of “A Christmas Carol” (reservations required). The International Printing Museum, 315 W. Torrance Blvd., Carson. Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $25. printmuseum.org

Disposable Necessities World premiere of Neil McGowan’s dark comedy set in a future where those with the financial means to escape aging and death download their souls into new bodies; Guillermo Cienfuegos directs. Rogue Machine Theatre, Electric Lodge, 1416 Electric Ave., Venice. Sat., 8 p.m.; next Sun., 3 p.m; ends Feb. 3. $25, $40. (855) 585-5185. roguemachinetheatre.com

Elf — The Musical Stage adaptation of the hit 2003 Will Ferrell holiday comedy. Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, 3050 Los Angeles Ave., Simi Valley. Sat., 8 p.m.; next Sun., 2 p.m.; ends Dec. 29. $20-$28. (805) 583-7900. simi-arts.org

Plaid Tidings A dearly departed vocal group from the 1950s-60s returns to perform a holiday concert in this spin-off of the show “Forever Plaid.” Rubicon Theatre Company, 1006 E. Main St., Ventura. Sat., 7 p.m.; next Sun., 2 p.m.; ends Dec. 29. $39-$74; opening night only, $150. (804) 667-2900. rubicontheatre.org

Three Jews and a Blonde Walk into the Braid Comedy show with Cathy Ladman, Monica Piper, Sue Kolinsky, Debbie Kasper. The Braid, 2912 Colorado Ave., #102, Santa Monica. Sat., 5:30 and 8 p.m. $35. jewishwomenstheatre.org

A Twisted Christmas Carol Phil Olson’s new Texas-style send-up of Dickens’ classic tale. Upstairs at the Group Rep (not handicapped accessible), Lonny Chapman Theatre, 10900 Burbank Blvd., North Hollywood. Sat., 4 p.m.; next Sun., 7 p.m.; ends Jan. 12. $17, $20. (818) 763-5990. thegrouprep.com

Catskills Comedy in Calabasas With veteran comics Hank Garrett, Mike Preminger and others. Valley Outreach Synagogue Center for Jewish Life, 26670 Agoura Road, Calabasas. Next Sun., 5 p.m. $20, $25. (818) 882-4867. vosla.org

Charles Phoenix: Retro Holiday Jubilee! The humorist and pop-culture historian celebrates the season. Lewis Family Playhouse, 12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga. Next Sun., 2 p.m. $28-$36. (909) 477-2752. lewisfamilyplayhouse.com

Elvis: Blue Christmas Tribute artist Raymond Michael salutes the King of Rock and Roll. Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, 3050 Los Angeles Ave., Simi Valley. Next Sun., 7:30 p.m. $22-$29. (805) 583-7900. simi-arts.org

The Merry Little Christmas Show Scott Dreier (“Doris and Me”) celebrates classic holiday specials in this cabaret show. The Colony Theatre, 555 N. 3rd St., Burbank. Next Sun., 3 and 6 p.m. $35. (866) 811-4111. colonytheatre.org

Pamela Shaw Is Naughty … with a Band The actress-singer shares songs and stories. Feinstein’s at Vitello’s, 4349 Tujunga Ave., Studio City. Next Sun., 1:30 p.m. $25, $35; food and beverage minimums apply. (818) 769-0905. feinsteinsatvitellos.com

A Very Goyisha Hanukkah Anna Abbott explores her spirituality and sexuality in this comical cabaret show. The Braid, 2912 Colorado Ave., #102, Santa Monica. Next Sun., 2 p.m.; also Tue., Dec. 17, 8 p.m. $35. jewishwomenstheatre.org

Wicked Lit Unbound Productions presents staged readings of the chilling tales “From Beyond,” “The Unholy Sisters” and “The Grove of Rashomon.” A Noise Within, 3352 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Next Sun., 6:30 p.m. $10-$50. (626) 356-3100. anoisewithin.org

Critics’ Choices

Andy Warhol’s Tomato In this deftly staged debut, Vince Melocchi’s two-hander imagines an encounter in 1946 Pittsburgh between 18-year old Warhol (only an aspiring commercial artist at that point) and a blue-collar barkeep harboring secret dreams of becoming a writer. Carefully researched factual accuracy notwithstanding, the play isn’t so much a biographical portrait as a touching exploration of cultural division bridged by a fundamental human need to create. (P.B.) Pacific Resident Theatre, 703 Venice Blvd., Venice. Sun., next Sun., 3 p.m.; Sat., 8 p.m.; ends Dec. 15. $25-$34. (310) 822-8392. pacificresidenttheatre.com

Bob’s Holiday Office Party This long-running yuletide parody of small town eccentricity thrives on the qualities that has made it a staple of the L.A. theater scene for over two decades — it’s irreverent, crude, and devastatingly funny. (P.B.) Atwater Village Theatre, 3269 Casitas Ave., L.A. Sun., next Sun., 7:30 p.m.; Mon., Thu.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 8:30 p.m.; ends Dec. 22. $25, $35. (800) 838-3006. bobsofficeparty.com

A Christmas Carol Amid many worthy area stagings of Charles Dickens’ immortal classic, this deftly performed, meta-theatrical edition stands out for fidelity to text, witty stagecraft and heartfelt embrace of message. There are fleeting oddities, but only a die-hard humbug could remain unmoved by so charming a Yuletide treat. God bless us everyone. (David C. Nichols). A Noise Within, 3352 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Sun., next Sun., 2 and 7 p.m.; Thu., 7:30 p.m.; Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 p.m.; ends Dec. 23. $25 and up; student rush, $20. (626) 356-3100. anoisewithin.org

Department of Dreams Preeminent Kosovar playwright Jeton Neziraj’s dystopian fable concerns a repressive system in which citizens are forced to “deposit” their dreams at a monolithic government agency in an ongoing campaign of intimidation and terror. The fact that the play is a world premiere represents a real coup for director Frédérique Michel and designer Charles A. Duncombe, the movers and shakers behind City Garage for almost 35 years now. They do full service to Neziraj’s surreal vision, an Orwellian portrait of a mad world in which all individuality is suppressed by a totalitarian state. Sometimes abstruse to the point of the incomprehensible, this is not an easy play. But is in an important play by a world-class playwright who challenges our complacency at every twist and turn. (F.K.F.) City Garage, Bergamot Station, building T1, 2525 Michigan Ave., Santa Monica. Ends Sun., 3 p.m. $20, $25; Sundays: pay what you want, at the door only. (310) 453-9939. citygarage.org

Eight Nights Sharply written, expertly performed and staged with breathtaking emotional impact, Jennifer Maisel’s new play explores the refugee experience and its repercussions through the deeply personal story of a concentration camp survivor and her descendants. (P.B.) Antaeus Theatre Company, Kiki & David Gindler Performing Arts Center, 110 E. Broadway, Glendale. Sun., next Sun., 2 p.m.; Mon., Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m.; ends Dec. 16. $35. (818) 506-1983. Antaeus.org

Elijah Set in a Texas TGI Fridays during raging hurricane Elijah, Judith Leora’s play commences on a deceptively polemical note, as the pro-and-anti death penalty activists who had gathered at a nearby prison for the execution of a notorious serial slayer are forced to shelter in place for the duration. In this case, patience is a virtue. Leora’s initial didacticism deepens into a beautifully realized, classically structured drama that subtly illustrates what can occur when individuals are forced out of their ideologically ossified “tribes” to seek a common humanity. Never striking a false note, director Maria Gobetti takes us on a journey that accelerates to a shattering emotional whirlwind. Among the superlative performers, Molly Gray particularly stands out in her raw portrayal of a woman coping with a sad and shocking legacy that will forever define her. (F.K.F.) The Big Victory Theatre, 3326 W. Victory Blvd., Burbank. Sun., next Sun., 4 p.m.; Wed.-Sat., 8 p.m.; ends Dec. 15. $28-$40. (818) 841-5421. thevictorytheatrecenter.org

Jitney Ruben Santiago-Hudson’s Tony-winning revival of August Wilson’s “Jitney,” a triumphant melding of acting and drama, puts the audience in the unique position of eavesdroppers on the colloquial music of life. This early Wilson play, the first to be written in his 10-play cycle exploring the 20th century African American experience, takes place in the 1970s at a gypsy cab station threatened by the city’s urban renewal program. Wilson takes us inside the drivers’ lives to reveal the way history has challenged and changed their destinies. What was once dismissed as a minor Wilson drama is now considered major. And it’s not because our standards have plummeted. Rather, it’s that the play, when fully realized by a company of actors working in communal concord, satisfies our growing hunger for complex and compassionate character truth. (C.M.) Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. Sun., next Sun., 1 and 6:30 p.m.; Tue.-Fri., 8 p.m., Sat., 2:30 and 8 p.m.; ends Dec. 29. $25-$110. (213) 628-2772. centertheatregroup.org

Key Largo A stage version of John Huston’s 1948 classic film noir starring Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall and Edward G. Robinson, is asking for trouble. To begin with, who can compete with the soul-weary charisma of Bogie and Bacall? But this world premiere adaptation by Jeffrey Hatcher and actor Andy Garcia, sensationally directed by Doug Hughes, takes a different route to success. Garcia’s high-voltage portrayal of mobster Johnny Rocco infuses the play with crackling vitality. Taking on the role that Robinson played with his imitable tough-guy swagger, Garcia paints a gangster portrait more along the lines of those created over the years by Al Pacino and Robert De Niro. Garcia’s performance, a strong supporting cast and a topnotch design team allow “Key Largo” to live anew. (C.M.) Geffen Playhouse, Gil Cates Theater, 10886 Le Conte Ave., Westwood. Sun., 2 and 7 p.m.; Tue.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 3 p.m.; next Sun., 2 p.m.; ends Dec. 15. $30-$145. (310) 208-5454. geffenplayhouse.org

The Latina Christmas Special Under the direction of Geoffrey Rivas, the massively talented trio of Maria Russell, Diana Yanez and Sandra Valls, who all play themselves, hilariously and heart-wrenchingly recapitulate memories of Christmases past in this very special “Special” — which is most distinctively and most memorably a loving tribute to their feisty, funny Latina mothers. (F.K.F.) A Noise Within, 3352 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Mon., 7:30 p.m. $10-$50. (626) 356-3100. anoisewithin.org

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Here is a list of classical music in L.A. for Dec. 8-15:

Angel City Chorale: Starry Starry Night Holiday Concert & Sing-Along The ensemble sings seasonal favorites and more backed by a live orchestra. Immanuel Presbyterian Church, 3300 Wilshire Blvd., L.A. Sun., 7:30 p.m. $35-$90. (310) 943-9231. angelcitychorale.org

Beethoven’s “Eroica” Principal guest conductor Susanna Mälkki leads the LA Phil in Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3 and Oliver Knussen’s Violin Concerto with violinist Leila Josefowicz. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. Sun., 2 p.m. $20-$188. (323) 850-2000. laphil.com

The Choir of Saint James: An Advent Procession of Lessons and Carols The ensemble performs works ranging from Gregorian chant to contemporary works. St. James Episcopal Church, 3903 Wilshire Blvd., L.A. Sun., 4:30 p.m. Free. stjla.org

A Christmas Celebration The Los Angeles Concert Orchestra, the Chancel Choir and the Mark Twain Bell Ringers perform. First United Methodist Church, 1008 11th St., Santa Monica. Sun., 7:30 p.m. Recommended donation, $10-$20. (310) 393-8258. santamonicaumc.org

Handel’s Glorious Messiah Guest conductor Robert Istad leads Pacific Symphony, Pacific Chorale and guest soloists in the holiday favorite. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. Sun., 3 p.m. $25 and up. (714) 755-5799. PacificSymphony.org

Handel’s Messiah The Dream Orchestra, the Cathedral Choir, the Opera Chorus of Los Angeles and guest vocalists perform. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, 555 W. Temple St., L.A. Sun., 7 p.m. $20-$40. dreamorchestra.org

Handel’s Messiah Orange County-based Meistersingers perform with a period-instrument ensemble. Anaheim United Methodist Church, 1000 S. State College Blvd., Anaheim. Sun., 3 p.m. $15, $25. meistersingers.net

Holiday Concert The American Youth Symphony Chamber Ensemble performs. Valley Beth Shalom, 15739 Ventura Blvd., Encino. Sun., 4 p.m. Free. schoolofmusic.ucla.edu

Holiday Lights Santa Clarita Master Chorale performs Lauridsen’s “Lux Aeterna” and more. College of the Canyons Performing Arts Center, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita. Sun., 4 p.m. $11-$29. scmasterchorale.org

Kaleidescope Chamber Orchestra Bach’s Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 and Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf,” plus works by Viet Cuong and Jessie Montgomery. First Presbyterian Church, 1220 2nd St., Santa Monica. Sun., 2 p.m. Free; suggested donation, $40. kco.la/concerts

Kontrapunktus Baroque Ensemble: Stylus Fantasticus Rare chamber-music works by Heinrich Ignaz, Franz Biber, Dieterich Buxtehude and Girolamo Frescobaldi. Trinity Lutheran Church, 997 E. Walnut St., Pasadena. Sun., 2 p.m. Free. kontrapunktus.com

A Joyful Noise! Los Robles Master Chorale sings holiday favorites. Carpenter Family Theater, Westlake High School, 100 N. Lakeview Canyon Road, Westlake Village. Sun., 4 p.m. $5-$35. (805) 526-7464. losroblesmasterchorale.org

La Cenerentola The Opera Buffs present a concert performance of Rossini’s comic take on the Cinderella story. Zipper Hall, the Colburn School, 200 S. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. Sun., 2 p.m. $15-$65. (323) 356-0047. operabuffs.org

Le Salon de Musiques The chamber-music series presents “Passionate Romances,” a program of works for voice, strings and piano by Schumann, Mendelssohn and Robert Kahn. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 5th Floor Salon, 135 N. Grand Ave., L.A. Sun., 4 p.m. $45, $95. (310) 498-0257. lesalondemusiques.com

Los Angeles Children’s Chorus: A Ceremony of Carols The ensemble performs the Britten classic interspersed with works by Lauridsen, Brahms, et al., plus traditional songs and more. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. Sun., 7 p.m. $17-$45. (626) 793-4231. lachildrenschorus.org

The Many Actual Moods of Christmas: Holidays for the Slightly Harried The Orange County Women’s Chorus opens its season with works by Eleanor Daley, Joan Szymko and more. St. Wilfrid of York Episcopal Church, 18631 Chapel Lane, Huntington Beach. Sun., 3 p.m. (949) 451-8590. $15-$30. (949) 451-8590. ocwomenschorus.org

South Bay Chamber Music Society The New Hollywood String Quartet performs an all-Beethoven program. Pacific Unitarian Church, 5621 Montemalaga Drive, Rancho Palos Verdes. Sun., 3 p.m. Free. sbcms.net

Unto Us a Child Is Born The St. James Chancel Choir, the Kirk Singers and the St. James Early Music and Jazz Ensemble perform works by Respighi, Mendelssohn, et al., plus holiday carols. St. James Presbyterian Church, 19414 Ventura Blvd., Tarzana. Sun., 4 p.m. Free. donations accepted. (818) 345-2057. stjamespres.org

Messiah Sing-along With Santa Clarita Master Chorale and guest soloists. Valencia United Methodist Church, 25718 McBean Parkway, Valencia. Mon., 7 p.m. $15-$20. scmasterchorale.org

The Music Guild California String Quartet plays pieces by Schubert, Homzy and Borodin. University Synagogue, 11960 Sunset Blvd., Brentwood. Mon., 8 p.m. Also at Cal State Long Beach, Daniel Recital Hall, E. Atherton St., Long Beach. Tue., 8 p.m.; and Adat Ari El Temple, 12020 Burbank Blvd., North Hollywood. Wed., 8 p.m. $46-$56; discounts available; caregivers, free. (310) 558-3500. TheMusicGuild.org

A Tribute to Oliver Knussen Susanna Mälkki leads the LA Phil New Music group, violinist Leila Josefowicz and pianist John Novacek in a salute to the late composer. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. Tue., 8 p.m. $20-$64. (323) 850-2000. laphil.com

Academy of Ancient Music Baroque ensemble presents a holiday-themed concert of works by Bach, Handel, Purcell, et al. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. Wed., 8 p.m. $20-$114. (323) 850-2000. laphil.com

Isaura String Quartet: hum The ensemble is joined by vocalist Julia Holter for a program that includes new and recent works by Nicole Lizée, David Rosenboom, et al. REDCAT, 631 W. 2nd St., L.A. Wed., 8:30 p.m. $18, $22. (213) 237-2800. redcat.org

Delirium Musicum The self-conducted chamber ensemble performs Bach’s “Chaconne,” Iannis Xenakis’ “Aroura” and more. Nichols Canyon Music, 2330 Nichols Canyon Road, Hollywood. Wed., 8 p.m. $20. (800) 838-3006. Also at USC Brain and Creativity Institute’s Cammilleri Hall, 3620A McClintock Ave., L.A. Thu., 7:30 p.m. Free; reservations required. deliriummusicum.com

La Bohème: AKA “The Hipsters” Pacific Opera Project reprises its update of Puccini’s tragedy, transposing the tale of struggling artists from 19th-century Paris to present day Los Angeles; sung in Italian with projected English titles. The Highland Park Ebell Club, 131 S. Avenue 57, Highland Park. Thu.-Sat., 8 p.m. $15-$30; tables, $60, $180. (323) 739-6122. pacificoperaproject.com

The Magic Flute Performers interact with projected animations as LA Opera presents Mozart’s fantastical romantic fable; sung in German with English subtitles. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. Thu., 7:30 p.m.; next Sun., 2 p.m.; ends Dec. 15. $19 and up. (213) 972.8001. LAOpera.org

Paleface Composer-pianist Russell Steinberg is joined by Trio Accento, soprano Hila Plitmann and others for a multimedia-enhanced program of original works, one of which includes audience members playing along on kazoos. Zipper Hall, the Colburn School, 200 S. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. Thu., 7:30 p.m. $25. eventbrite.com

Tchaikovsky & Copland with MTT Guest conductor Michael Tilson Thomas lead the LA Phil in Copland’s Symphony No. 3, Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Dubinushka,” and Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1. with pianist Daniil Trifonov. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. Thu., 8 p.m.; Fri, 11 a.m.; Sat., 8 p.m.; next Sun., 2 p.m. $69-$219. (323) 850-2000. laphil.com

Vox Feminae The vocal ensemble performs sacred and secular holiday music from the medieval and Renaissance eras. The Huntington, Rothenberg Hall, 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino. Thu., 1 p.m. Free. (626) 405-2100. huntington.org

Winter Concert Pacific Symphony violinist and concertmaster Dennis Kim and cellist Warren Hagerty join the OCSA Symphony Orchestra for Brahms’ Double Concerto; program also includes works by Beethoven, Sibelius, et al. Orange County School of the Arts, Symphony Hall, 965 S. Sycamore St., Santa Ana. Thu., 7 p.m. $15. ocsarts.net

Things to do

A Baroque Christmas Musica Angelica Baroque Orchestra performs works by Handel, Haydn, Mozart, etc., with the Long Beach Camerata Singers and soprano Robin Johannsen. The Beverly O’Neill Theater, 300 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach. Fri., 8 p.m. Also at First Congregational Church of Los Angeles, 540 S. Commonwealth Ave., L.A. Sat., 7 p.m. $59, $79. (562) 276-0865. musicaangelica.org

Carol of the Bells Crown City Ringers present their annual holiday concert. Pasadena Presbyterian Church, 585 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Fri., 7:30 p.m. Free. (609) 529-3979.

Darkness Sounding This new series presented by contemporary classical ensemble Wild Up includes pianist Richard Valitutto performing the West Coast premiere of Sarah Hennies’ prepared-piano work “SOVT.” Cal Perc, 1965 Blake Ave., L.A. Fri., 8 p.m. $25. wildup.la

Messiah Sing-along With the Westwood Master Choir. Westwood Presbyterian Church, 10822 Wilshire Blvd., Westwood. Fri., 8 p.m. $10; 18 and under, free. westwoodpres.org

Festival of Carols Composer Eric Whitacre conducts the Los Angeles Master Chorale in sacred and secular favorites, plus the world premiere of “The Gift of the Magi,” Whitacre’s setting of O. Henry’s classic tale. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., L.A. Sat., 2 p.m. $29-$139; children under 6 not admitted. (213) 972-7282. lamasterchorale.org

Holiday Candlelight Seasonal favorites with Pasadena Symphony, singer Sarah Uriarte Berry, the Los Angeles Children’s Chorus, the Donald Brinegar Singers and L.A. Bronze Handbell Ensemble. All Saints Church, 132 N. Euclid Ave., Pasadena. Sat., 4 and 7 p.m. $20 and up. (626) 793-7172. pasadenasymphony-pops.org

Santa Monica Symphony Mahler’s Symphony No. 5. Santa Monica High School, Barnum Hall, 600 Olympic Blvd., Santa Monica. Sat., 7:30 p.m. Free. (310) 395-6330. smsymphony.org

Symphonies for Youth: The Rite of Spring The LA Phil presents a kid-friendly exploration of the Stravinsky classic. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., downtown L.A. Sat., 11 a.m. $25, $29. (323) 850-2000. laphil.com

Sounds Festive: The Four Seasons X 2 Salastina pairs the Vivaldi classic with contemporary works by local composers. Pasadena Conservatory of Music, Barrett Hall, 100 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena. Sat., 8 p.m. Also at the Edye Second Space at the Broad Stage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. Next Sun., 3 p.m. $10-$40. salastina.org

A Southern California Christmas Seasonal favorites with the Orange Community Master Chorale, plus other local singers, dancers and musicians. Musco Center for the Arts, Chapman University, 415 N. Glassell, Orange. Sat., 7:30 p.m.; next Sun., 4 p.m. $25-$58. (844) 626-8726. muscocenter.org

The Spirit of the Season with Voctave The a cappella group sings holiday favorites. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. Sat., 8 p.m. $23 and up. (949) 553-2422. PhilharmonicSociety.org. Also at Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge. Next Sun., 3 p.m. $36-$65. (818) 677-3000. thesoraya.org

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American Youth Symphony Brass Ensemble Classical and holiday favorites. Laemmle Monica Film Center, 1332 2nd St., Santa Monica. Next Sun., 11 a.m. Free; reservations required. eventbrite.com

A Christmas Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols Music by Briggs, Adelmann, Paulus, Josquin des Prez, Berlioz, Rütti, Phillips and Tavener. All Saints’ Church, 504 N. Camden Drive, Beverly Hills. Next Sun., 5 p.m. Free. (310) 275-0123. allsaintsbh.org

Darkness Sounding: Satsang 1 Singer-composer Odeya Nini and artistic director Christopher Rountree lead a program of group sings, sound baths, readings and discussions. Craft in America Center, 8415 W. 3rd St., L.A. Next Sun., 7 p.m. Free. wildup.la

Duke Ellington’s Nutcracker The Duke Ellington Orchestra performs its namesake’s reimagining of the Tchaikovsky classic. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. Next Sun., 7 p.m. $28 and up. (949) 553-2422. PhilharmonicSociety.org

Home for the Holidays Los Cancioneros Master Chorale presents C.P.E. Bach’s Magnificat and more, plus an audience sing-along. Armstrong Theatre, Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Civic Center Drive, Torrance. Next Sun., 7 p.m. $15, $25. (310) 781-7171. LCMasterChorale.com

LACMA’s Sundays Live Members of the Capitol Ensemble perform Beethoven’s Piano Trio in E-flat Major. St. James’ in the City, 3903 Wilshire Blvd., L.A. Next Sun., 6 p.m. Free. (323) 857-6234. lacma.org

Los Angeles Symphony Christmas Concert Works by Handel, Rutter, Verdi and more. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 18000 Park Plaza Drive, Cerritos. Next Sun., 7 p.m. $25-$80. (562) 916-8500. cerritoscenter.com

O Magnum Mysterium Los Angeles Master Chorale performs the Lauridsen favorite plus works by Nico Muhly and Dale Trumbore. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., L.A. Next Sun., 7 p.m. $29-$149; children under 6 not admitted. (213) 972-7282. lamasterchorale.org

Organic II This Jacaranda series continues with organist James Walker performing works by Bach, Ives, Hugo Distler and David Lang. First Presbyterian Church, 1220 2nd St., Santa Monica. Next Sun., 2 p.m. $10, $55. jacarandamusic.org

Why Music Matters: Jazz and Early American Music The Duke Ellington Orchestra celebrates the legendary pianist, bandleader and composer. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. Next Sun., 3 p.m. Free. (949) 553-2422. PhilharmonicSociety.org

MIAMI
 — 

Investigative reporter Michele Gillen spent her career rooting out injustice.

One of South Florida’s most recognizable TV personalities, Gillen worked at CBS-owned WFOR-TV Channel 4 for two decades — earning 25 prestigious regional Emmy Awards. She exposed inhumane treatment of mentally ill inmates in the Miami-Dade jail, leading to reforms. Earlier in her career, when Gillen was an NBC News correspondent in her native New York, her coverage prompted the government to create mammography machine standards.

“She was an excellent reporter,” recalled former CBS executive Steve Mauldin, who led CBS’ stations in Los Angeles, Dallas and Miami. “I once sent her to Europe to cover some big story, I think it was the pope.”

But Gillen’s distinguished career fell apart in September 2016, when she was forced out of WFOR, which lags in Nielsen ratings. The journalist, now 64, filed an age and gender discrimination lawsuit against CBS last year, alleging the company also retaliated against her.

Attorneys representing Gillen and CBS reached a tentative agreement in late November, just two weeks before a trial that could have raised questions about the workplace culture at CBS and how the company handles complaints from its veteran TV station employees. The company continues to deny Gillen’s claims.

“WFOR-TV, CBS and Michele Gillen have reached an amicable resolution,” a CBS representative said.

CBS, in court documents, said it was justified in firing the veteran reporter because she wasn’t keeping up with the two men on WFOR’s special projects team. In a court deposition, WFOR general manager Adam Levy said: “Michele was the least productive and the highest paid. So … I decided to eliminate Michele’s position.”

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But Gillen traces the unraveling of her career to a July 2014 staff meeting at the CBS-owned station, which is tucked in an industrial park not far from the Trump National Doral Golf Club. Then-WFOR special projects producer Caridad Hernández-Wood had called the meeting to urge her team to generate stories with tangential ties to CBS’ prime-time shows.

According to Gillen’s lawsuit, reporter Jim DeFede said he wasn’t interested in pursuing stories that would appeal to “women [who] are menstruating while watching ‘Blue Bloods,’ ” a reference to a CBS network show starring Tom Selleck. (DeFede did not respond to requests for comment.)

DeFede then tore into Gillen, the station’s chief investigative reporter, suggesting that she was to blame for the group being asked to contribute more stories because she had been on the air infrequently, according to interviews with witnesses of the incident and court documents.

“I watched one colleague cannibalize another: chew her up, spit her out, and chomp on her some more, without the benefit of any management protection,” former WFOR producer Jilda Unruh wrote in a memo that described the incident. The memo became part of the court record. In a September court deposition, DeFede acknowledged that he may have stepped out of line. “It wasn’t the best way to handle the situation,” DeFede said.

CBS, in court documents, said it launched an investigation into the incident, and the station manager and an HR official interviewed the special projects producer and the men who were present.

Unruh, who has since left the station, questioned the thoroughness of the investigation. In an interview with The Times, Unruh said she was troubled that no one talked to her and so she asked a CBS HR executive in New York about the oversight.

She said the HR executive told her: “What are we supposed to do? Interview everyone?” But there were only six people in the meeting.

“They interviewed everyone except for the one woman who could back up Michele’s account,” Unruh said.

Gillen said after that meeting, she found it increasingly difficult to be productive in the newsroom that she felt was hostile to her. In court documents, managers acknowledged the tensions. For years, WFOR producers had been frustrated by Gillen’s labor-intensive reporting methods, which they felt were out-of-date amid the relentless cost-cutting in local TV news. In an interview with the Times earlier this year, Gillen described her bosses mocking her, telling her she didn’t work at “60 Minutes,” the network’s vaunted news magazine.

“The culture of demeaning women was so rampant,” Gillen said. “The men are empowered, bad-boy behavior is protected, but the women are held to a different standard.”

Gillen’s former colleagues corroborated her account. Cameraman Wilfred Ardley, who still works at the station, filed his own discrimination lawsuit against CBS in 2017, describing what he called a hostile workplace.

Ardley alleged that co-workers lobbed racist insults at him because he was Muslim and an African American. His suit has since been settled, and CBS denied liability. The suit also cited an incident in which a supervisor allegedly disparaged Gillen, telling Ardley: “I can’t stand that old bitch[,] make her work.”

“Like I was some farm animal,” Gillen said. (The manager, in a court deposition, denied making such disparaging remarks.)

In her final years at the station, Gillen said she reported several instances of unequal treatment to CBS’ human resources division. When she complained to the HR director in Miami, Gillen said she was told: “We must rely on the man upstairs” (God) for help, according to her suit.

An HR executive in New York told her she didn’t have grounds to complain about discrimination because WFOR’s news director was a woman. Another time, Gillen said, the HR executive told her: “Favoritism is not illegal.”

Even three years later, it’s difficult for Gillen, a woman who was the valedictorian of her college class and a former network correspondent, to accept her unceremonious departure.

“I spent so much of my career trying to bring voices to the people who weren’t being heard,” Gillen said. “I couldn’t envision leaving with my tail between my legs. At the end of the day, it is about respect.”