TUNNEL TROUBLE: The second shoe dropped for...

TUNNEL TROUBLE: The second shoe dropped for the MTA Thursday when a coalition of Hollywood and North Hollywood community groups sued the transit authority in federal court. The activists want to halt construction of the Hollywood/Runyon Canyon leg of the Red Line, which has caused them numerous problems. . . . A similar lawsuit was filed recently by Hollywood Hills homeowners fearful of impending tunneling trauma.

BUREAUCRAT ALERT: Looking for directions to the Van Nuys courthouse? Try the Web. At https://www.lamuni.org, you’ll find out how to get there, what the filing fees are, how to file in small claims court and other tidbits. . . . But don’t expect to be wowed by the government-budget graphics: The only photo is of the court administrator.

CUSTODY BATTLE: Though no blood relation, Douglas “Kevin” Thomas, above, was once again awarded custody of a young girl Thursday (B1). . . . Superior Court Judge Martha Goldin ruled that turning over 8-year-old Courtney Thomas to her biological mother would be harmful to the girl. . . . Thomas says he has $100,000 in unpaid legal bills from the custody fight.

TENNIS ELBOW: Prosecutor David Conn dismissed the Menendez brothers’ claims of a horrific childhood as “the country-club abuse-excuse defense. . . . Too much tennis. Not enough hugs.” He argued to a Van Nuys jury that the brothers should get the death penalty (B1).

POPPY PARTY: There’s something for everyone at Lancaster’s Poppy Festival this weekend. Those who like to look can see 1,700 acres of blooming golden poppies. Those who like to draw flowers can enter the sidewalk chalk art contest. Cyclists can sign up for a 20-mile bike ride. For high-fliers: helicopter rides. . . . Information: (805) 723-6077.