yikes! so sorry to hear that.
Speaking from event planning side as host of our event, the LA Times has nothing do with the vast majority of these events other than being the umbrella host in name only. Aside from some of the big events that they actually do plan (ie 4 day Night market, typically it would be listed as hosted by one of their staff writers) they have no input of say in anything.
These events are actually planned and hosted by someone/organization that pays a fee to be listed in their foodbowl calendar and essentially, that’s the main benefit is to be listed on their website and hard copy. They do not provide any additional publicity, direction, or oversight. They pretty much only promote the big name chefs and corporate sponsored events.
we sold out our tickets via our own social media outlets and on here. but tbh, this is going to be the one and only time we’ll host a LA times foodbowl associated event (Noodle Pulling 101. Can’t speak for all organizers and what their motivations are, but we just got the winner of this year’s KCRW pie contest to come and serve her pies for dessert. 