CRENSHAW : Neighbors Can Help Pave Way at Theater

Magic Johnson Theatres is offering residents and business people the chance to leave a lasting impression on the Crenshaw community--literally.

Personally inscribed tiles--2,600 of them--are being sold for $50 to $400 to cover a walkway at the theater, which is due to open at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza in mid-July. Proceeds from the “Pave the Way” campaign will benefit Crenshaw and Dorsey high schools, Audubon Middle School, the Crenshaw YMCA and other educational and community organizations.

Magic Johnson Theatres Chairman Earvin (Magic) Johnson said that he is “very excited about the program and what it means for the community. Now, everyone has the opportunity to be a permanent part of our new theater while contributing to programs and institutions that are invaluable to our community.”

The tile program is one of several efforts the company has made to involve the community in the construction process. Last month, Magic Johnson Theatres sponsored a mural competition for artists to commission a work that will hang in the main lobby.

Residents can purchase personalized tiles for $50. The price for local businesses, which includes an engraved star, is $175. Corporate tiles are $400 and can be bought in groups of 10, 25 and 50.

Contribution forms are available at several community businesses, including Dulan’s Restaurant, Gagnier’s Restaurant and the Coffee Beanery in the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, Founders National Bank and Aunt Kizzy’s Restaurant in Marina del Rey. Tiles will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Information: (310) 280-3567.