My Glaswegian father-inlaw would clap his hands, smile at us and say, “Well, we havenee’ died a winter yet!” when we as a family were faced with some insurmountable task. It’s a great way to get the spirits up (along with a glass of whiskey) but, September is National Preparedness Month, so let’s get real and maybe do a wee’ bit o’ prepping.
The Ready LA County website reminds us that “Emergency situations become disasters when they overwhelm the resources that are there to protect our community.” So the best thing we can all do is make sure we’ve done our due diligence in preparing ourselves and our community just in case there
Chronicle hit newstands
52 years ago
n First issue published in September 1963
Against the odds, Jane Gilman co-founded the Larchmont Chronicle in September 1963, 52 years ago this month. It was an uphill battle for her and fellow co-founder Dawne Goodwin to get their feet in the door in an era when women were still known by their husbands’ last names.
Read about how they did it.
By Jon Vein
A couple of years ago, Los Angeles voters approved Measure ULA—better known as the “mansion tax.” The idea was simple enough: when a property sells for more than $5 million, the seller pays an extra tax and that money goes straight into housing and homelessness programs.
The tax is steep: 4% on sales between $5 and $10 million,
and 5.5% on anything higher. That means if your home sells for $6 million, the city collects $240,000 before you even get to escrow fees. The good news first Since it kicked in, Measure ULA has brought in over $702 million. For this year alone, the Los Angeles City Council has approved a $425 million spending plan. About $100
By Suzan Filipek
Last month the Los Angeles City Council voted 8-5 against Senate Bill 79, a state measure that would allow multistory buildings to be built near transit sites.
Opponents of the measure, which include several homeowner associations, argue the bill takes away local control and threatens neighborhoods. After the vote, residents reached out to Mayor Karen Bass requesting that she sign a resolution adopted by the council, “unless amended to exempt jurisdictions with a certified Housing Element.”
By Nona Sue Friedman
Over 15 restaurants have come on board to make this year’s Taste of Larchmont a fun and fruitful evening for HopeNet. This vital, one-andonly fundraiser takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. on Mon., Sept. 15, along Larchmont Boulevard between First Street and Beverly Boulevard. HopeNet is a nonprofit organization that provides healthy food and logistical support to 12 local faith-based food pantries.
This year’s theme is “Hope
n Critics lament ‘missed opportunity’
By Suzan Filipek
A decade ago, when Metro officials removed several palm trees from the Miracle Mile to make room for subway construction, they promised to bring trees back—twofold.
Rises.” In addition to restaurants, Executive Director Roya Milder has obtained close to
25 benefactors, sponsors and supporters to contribute to
Editorial
By Chronicle Editorial Board
Back to school, an empty nest, more time for community
As the days of summer are ending, we are finding a lot of our friends and neighbors are becoming empty nesters. What once seemed so far in the future is now coming in fast. While it can be a time of sadness, it can also be a time for new opportunities. We live in a community that has no shortage of interesting and impactful ways one can utilize the newfound freedom. Pickleball is one common refrain, book clubs are all the rage and community involvement is always a useful endeavor. One can even submit a story idea or coverage of a topic to the Larchmont Chronicle—a community paper that seeks to spotlight the voices of those in our neighborhoods. We hear a lot of news and chatter about AI and the fears many have about it. One of its intended outcomes is more time for people to do what they want. What if that time could be put to use in the community? Becoming involved in local politics could be a worthy endeavor, as the easiest way to affect change is from the inside. Be a part of the solution, be open to other ideas and learn how things get done in our city so we can prepare the city for the next generation.
Whether it’s being an empty nester or the sudden increase in time due to technology, the time is now. Our community and our city need you, now more than ever.
325 N. Larchmont Boulevard, #158 Los Angeles, California 90004 windsorsquare.org
157 N. Larchmont Boulevard
“By all these lovely tokens, September days are here. With summer’s best of weather and autumn’s best of cheer.”
— Helen Hunt Jackson
SB79: No Greater Threat to Windsor Square. State housing bill SB79 makes it legal in single family neighborhoods and historic districts to build 6 story apartment buildings within a half mile radius of a bus or transit stop. This means that all of Windsor Square and its HPOZ will be affected. Contact your state representatives to stop this bill now! Senator Maria Durazo senator.durazo@senate.ca.gov and Assemblymen Rick Chavez Zbur Assemblymember.Zbur@ assembly.ca.gov.
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REPORT STREET LIGHT OUTAGES: the WSA continues to track street light outages throughout Windsor Square so that they can be properly reported and scheduled for repair. If your street is experiencing an outage please report it by contacting blockcaptains@windsorsquare.org and CD13 representative Mark Fuentes mark.fuentes@lacity.org o o o
SAVE THE DATE: The Annual WSA Townhall Meeting is scheduled for Thursday November 13th. LA District Attorney Nathan Hochman and Mayor Karen Bass have been invited to attend.
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“ARE YOU PREPARED?” The WSA’s one page sheet on preparing yourself, family and A Guide to Neighborhood Disaster Preparedness is now available online. Download your copy at https://windsorsquare.org/safety-security/ emergency-preparedness/
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WE NEED BLOCK CAPTAINS! Be the leader of your block and point person for all that’s going on the neighborhood. The WSA has numerous block captain positions open. A great opportunity to engage with neighbors and community leaders. blockcaptains@ windsorsquare.org
The Windsor Square Association, an all-volunteer group of residents from 1100 households between Beverly and Wilshire and Van Ness and Arden, works to preserve and enhance our beautiful neighborhood. 325 N. Larchmont Blvd., #158, Los Angeles, CA 90004, or windsorsquare.org.
Calendar
Mon., Sept. 1—Labor Day.
Tues., Sept. 9—Mid City West Neighborhood Council board meeting, 6:30 p.m., at Pan Pacific Park, 7600 Beverly Blvd., midcitywest.org.
Wed., Sept. 10— Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council board meeting, via Zoom, 6:30 p.m., greaterwilshire.org.
Tues., Sept. 23— Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year, begins at sundown.
Thurs., Sept. 25—Delivery of the October issue of the Larchmont Chronicle
Letters
to the Editor
No to Senate Bill 79
The following letter was sent to Assemblymember Buffy Wicks and the California State Assembly Committee on Appropriations.
Larchmont Chronicle
Founded in 1963 by Jane Gilman and Dawne P. Goodwin
Publishers
Hutcheson Publishing Group Editor in Chief
Hedy Hutcheson
Managing Editor
Suzan Filipek
Staff Writer
Priscilla Duggan
Advertising Director
Wyatt Pershing
Art Director Tom Hofer
Max Paek
Circulation Manager /
Office Manager
Nona Sue Friedman
Digital Media Manager
Rhett Hutcheson
Accounting
Irene Janas
Interns
Benjamin Gamson
Julia Guillen
Nathan Rifkin
‘Who was your favorite or least favorite teacher?’
That’s the question our inquiring photographer asked locals.
“Favorite: It was the ‘70s in Yonkers and public schools weren’t pushing art, but Joan Poloski, an artist, was my kindergarten and second grade teacher. That’s where I got my love of art, because she was so encouraging. She also taught history and had us paint who we studied. I still have artwork from her class, believe it or not! Every time I think about art I say, ‘I wish I knew Miss Poloski now!’”
Joanne
The Windsor Square Association has represented an historic Los Angeles residential neighborhood—Windsor Square—for more than 100 years. Our Mid-Wilshire Los Angeles community contains approximately 1,100 single-family homes and some moderate-density, multifamily buildings.
Despite the numerous amendments made to Senate Bill 79 to try to garner enough votes to pass this unneeded legislation, the punitive, anti-family neighborhood proposed law will cause enormous damage to stable communities if passed by the legislature. None of the recent amendments have remedied the fundamental flaws of SB 79. They have made them worse.
SB 79 is drafted to create profitable (to developers) multifamily housing in current single-family blocks. It does not address the need (that our community and association support) for affordable housing.
(Please turn to Page 23)
Write us at letters@larchmontchronicle.com. Include your name, contact information and where you live. We reserve the right to edit for space and grammar.
“Least favorite: A teacher had us sign her ‘Community Repair Contracts,’ and if we did something really bad, we would get sent with it to the office. If you had over a certain number you’d be suspended. But she had no control over her class and would just dole them out. The office would just ignore them. They were useless.”
Desmond Garvey Windsor Square
“Favorite: Nancy Riegelman at Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising was encouraging and humble, especially considering she wrote the fashion book ‘9 Heads.’ I saw students so discouraged by their work, and she would say, ‘This is good, but let’s see if we can make it better,’ instead of degrading it. She would come into the store here (Larchmont Beauty Center) and I would tell her, ‘You are my favorite teacher of all time!’”
Gea
Gueron South Bay
Colonna Windsor Square
instagram @brigh2terabithia by Brighid Burnes
New boutique on the Boulevard; jewelers celebrate one year
By Chronicle staff
Lots of changes are happening on the Boulevard.
New to the street, Náti Boutique opened last month in the former Hidden Jeans store.
Casual and comfortable
“with a beach vibe” is how the clothes are described, and all items are under $200. Among the curated offerings are Hidden Jeans, known for being soft and stretchy, said Náti CEO Aviv Brawer-Cohen.
Silky skirts, Italian-made dresses, linen tops and jumpsuits can be perused in-store and online.
The family-owned women’s clothing company is at 130 N. Larchmont Blvd.
The company’s founder, Anat “Nati” Winston, opened her first shop nine years ago in Newbury Park, Calif. Locations followed in Malibu (where there are two), Venice,
“CASUAL,
AND
is how Gisele, an associate at Larchmont’s newest boutique, Náti, described the merchandise.
Newport Beach and New York City. Visit natiboutique.com.
Sadly, like Hidden Jeans, which left the Boulevard last month after three years, the Barking Lot closed last month after many years at
336 N. Larchmont Blvd. Store
owner Dr. Jan Ciganek retired last year from his veterinary practice, the Larchmont Animal Clinic, which was next door.
• • •
Meanwhile, Dr. Jessica Fishman expanded to a larg-
er animal medicine practice, Larchmont Village Vet, at 523 N. Larchmont, from her former location across the street.
The new space is in a bungalow-style renovated building, which can accommodate four doctors plus staff.
After the Chronicle went to press, the Larchmont Bou-
Taste
(Continued from Page 1)
the fundraiser. As Milder stated in an email, “Sponsorships are a big driver behind the financial success of the event and our ability to serve our clients.” According to her, the sponsorships confirmed so far for this year are in line with the last couple of years but still lower than pre-pandemic numbers.
As with any fundraiser, “fun” is embedded in the
levard Association met on Aug. 26 at Larchmont Jewelers at 119 N. Larchmont. Owner David Lee celebrated his one-year anniversary on Larchmont Boulevard at the historic building that is the third luxury retail store in Los Angeles for Hing Wa Lee Group. Guests enjoyed wine and charcuterie and a tour.
name. Taste is a great opportunity to explore the different food venues on the Boulevard and mingle with neighbors and friends. The organizers anticipate 300-400 attendees. HopeNet is looking for additional board members. Keep an eye out for a mailed invitation or visit hope-net. org to buy a $50 ticket. If you are interested in sponsorship or becoming a board member, reach out to Milder directly at 323-804-6059.
LARCHMONT VILLAGE VET associates Annette Guizard (left) and Joselyn Flores.
POLICE BEAT
Knife brandished through peephole; burglar pushed out
OLYMPIC DIVISION
AGGRAVATED ASSAULT:
In a domestic violence incident on Aug. 9 at 9 p.m., a suspect brandished a knife through a peephole on the 200 block of North Manhattan Place.
BURGLARIES: A suspect entered a home through the back door while the victim was home on the 200 block of North Saint Andrews Place. The victim pushed the suspect out who in turn fled the location on Aug. 1 at 2:40 a.m.
WILSHIRE DIVISION
Furnished by Senior Lead Officer
Tyler Shuck
213-712-3715
40740@lapd.online
Twitter: @lapdwilshire
A burglar entered a home through the rear screen door on the 700 block of South Bronson Avenue on Aug. 2 at 4 p.m. The suspect locked dogs in a second floor bed-
September Events Calendar
GLORIA MOLINA GRAND PARK’S BLOCK PARTY, a free celebration of music, art and community, takes place Sat., Sept. 6, from 3 to 9 p.m. This year’s theme, “Homegrown Resilience,” reflects the spirit of recovery from the wildfires to federal immigration raids, and includes DJs, art exhibits, food trucks and a 3D drone show lighting up the night sky. The event will span three blocks from Grand Avenue to Broadway Street. Visit grandparkla.org.
7
LOS ANGELES KIDS BOOK FESTIVAL celebrates a love of reading with a day of stories, music and fun, Sun., Sept. 7, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at West Hollywood Park, 647 N. San Vicente Blvd. The third annual event celebrates early childhood education, bilingualism and multiculturalism. Children’s authors and illustrators from around the country will be at the festival. Panels on writing children’s books and live performances
are also featured. The event is sponsored by the American Born Chinese Foundation. Free. Visit americanbornchinesefoundation.org.
21
JUST IN TIME, songstress Charlotte Carpenter Lewis and her band, The CharlotTones, will perform works from the Great American Songbook on Sun., Sept. 21 at Hope Lutheran Church, 6720 Melrose Ave. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. and includes dinner and a reception. “Glee” star Bill A. Jones will make a guest appearance. Visit hopelutheranhollywood.com.
22
GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY, which is celebrating its 90th anniversary this year, will welcome the autumn equinox on Mon., Sept. 22, with a presentation in the Gottlieb Transit Corridor at 12:35 p.m. followed by a sunset presentation at 6:35 p.m. on the West Terrace (said to have the best sunsets in town). While Griffith Observatory is closed on
OLYMPIC DIVISION
Furnished by Senior Lead Officer
Daniel Chavez
213-793-0709
36304@lapd.online
Instagram: @olympic_slo1
room and took property.
WILSHIRE DIVISION
BURGLARIES: A burglar shattered the rear glass door of an apartment, took proper-
Mondays—and that will still be true on the day of the autumnal equinox—both events will take place on the Observatory grounds and are free. The Observatory is located on the south slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, griffithobservatory.org.
28
BOOKS ‘N BRUNCH, Big Sunday’s annual colossal sorting event takes place Sun., Sept. 28, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at its new headquarters, 1741 N. Cherokee Ave. Volunteers are needed to count, sort and pack books. Other ways to participate are to donate books for kids and young adults or purchase from a wish list. For information email nicolo@ bigsunday.org.
ty and fled back out through the same door on Aug. 7 on the 400 block of North Rossmore Avenue.
A suspect entered a garage through an unlocked
Council OKs
(Continued from Page 1)
In a letter, Maria Pavlou of United Neighbors and Cindy Chvatal-Keane of Hancock Park Homeowners Association wrote, “We ask you to stand up for your diverse L.A. communities and for local control in light of the fact that our L.A. Housing Element is state certified and adds all the housing density required by the state while not destroying communities.”
While the council’s action will not defeat the measure, lawmakers hope the resolution will strengthen the city’s will in Sacramento.
After receiving 1,300 emails, the mayor signed the resolution the next day, Aug. 20.
“Together we did it! The city can now lobby the state,” Pavlou and Chvatal-Keane wrote in an email following
door and was confronted by the victim on Aug. 8 on the 600 block of South June Street. The suspect dropped the stolen property and fled the premises.
the mayor’s signature.
SB 79, introduced by Sen. Scott Wiener, has passed the Senate and is before the Assembly Appropriations Committee, which was scheduled to vote in late August (after the Chronicle went to press) to determine if the bill goes before the Assembly floor for a vote. If passed, the bill will go to Gov. Gavin Newsom, possibly in October.
Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martínez was among those who opposed the resolution and was in favor of SB 79 in an effort to add more housing to help with the city’s homelessness issue.
Councilmember Katy Yaroslavsky said she also wanted more housing density, but that SB 79 is not “smart or responsible” and overrides planning tools recently implemented in the city’s housing element. She voted in the favor of the resolution.
Ecclesia Gnostica Gnostic Christian Church
Bishop Dr. Stephan Hoeller
Sunday Eucharist 11am
Sunday Eucharist 11:00am
Larchmont 's own Rebecca Fitzgerald MD a board-certified dermatologic surgeon, brings extensive experience and up-to-theminute expertise to the convenience of your own neighborhood
Indian Summer: a season for recalibration and transitions
“Indian summer” is a term used to describe a stretch of warm weather that lingers unexpectedly into September. It’s a liminal window between summer and fall, when the days are sunny and warm and the nights are crisp. Something subtle begins to shift—not just in the air, but in us.
For this piece, I sat down with Dr. Jim Blechman, a renowned physician and longtime local Angelino. Although he technically works in western medicine, Blechman weaves homeopathy, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and acupuncture into his practice for a more integrative model.
When I asked him about this transition period he said, “It’s the season between the seasons—it’s not really a season, it’s between two.” He used to offer a class to his patients called “Honoring the Seasons Within,” built around the idea that our internal rhythms mirror the external climate, adding, “Indian summer is the time where you have to recalibrate yourself to meet the season.” In TCM, this recalibration is physiological as much as psychological. The organ associated with this transition period is the spleen, which governs digestion and overall vitality. “A weak spleen makes it harder to fight off illness,” he explained. “If someone is struggling with digestion, especially in colder months, I’ll take them off raw foods entirely. What you
Health & Wellness
By Priscilla Duggan
want in winter are warming, grounding foods—stews, root vegetables, baked apples.” Even buffalo meat, he said, is particularly strengthening for the spleen.
Blechman emphasizes the importance of supporting the immune system, particularly for children returning to school. “I put kids on a return-to-school formula,” he said. “It includes elderberry, astragalus and vitamin C Astragalus is a fantastic herb for transition periods, but remember not to use it if you have a fever since it can feed it.” When no fever is present, he uses it widely—even with patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation.
In addition to herbs, Blechman considers the thymus gland to be the immune system’s underappreciated warrior and a key site for protection against viruses. The thymus harnesses the power of the innate immune system to work against viruses through the production and development of T-cells. Astragalus supplements can also be very supportive to the thymus. The thymus sits below your sternum and can also be stimulated through vibrations or tapping. “Someone once told me that if you want to strengthen your thymus, get a cat and let it sit and purr on your chest. I always thought that was funny,” said Blech-
skin deep
by Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald
Q: My hair is thinning, (I’m a 46-year-old female), and I’m freaking out. What do you suggest?
A: Hair loss remains one of those issues that cause people to feel incredibly alone. Of course, we know that hair loss can happen for women and men, for a variety of reasons including genetics, aging, and post-partum. But that doesn’t address just how deeply personal and devastating it can feel. You know I’m about to give you some good news, right?
DOCTOR JIM BLECHMAN (seated) with longtime friend and chiropractor Fernando Mata. man.
For adults navigating back-to-work burnout or the slow return of seasonal stress, Blechman often turns to adaptogens—plants that help regulate the body’s stress response. His favorite?
Wild Siberian ginseng, ideally paired with rhodiola. “Siberian ginseng is particularly great because it modulates blood pressure,” he said. “If yours is high, it brings it down. If it’s low, it brings it up. But it’s heating—so don’t take it in summer or Indian summer. Wait until fall and winter,
when you need the warmth.”
And what about diet? “The worst thing you can do in this transition season (and into the fall/winter) is eat sugar,” Blechman warned. “From a Chinese medicine standpoint, sugar drains you and makes you vulnerable. Some would say it increases your yin energy.” Of course, he acknowledges, that’s not so easy for kids constantly bouncing between birthday parties and bake sales. “That’s why I try to support them with herbs. Healing through diet can be a little impractical today.”
Impractical, maybe, but not impossible. Indian summer is a subtle invitation to slow down, look inward and start making small, grounded changes. In a season between seasons, that’s often the best we can do—listen closely, prepare gently, and, if necessary, adopt a cat.
KeraFactor is a breakthrough serum containing proteins and growth factors wrapped in nanoliposomes to maximize absorption by your scalp. In other words, it packs the nutrients that your scalp needs packaged in an ideal delivery system to stimulate your hair follicles to grow hair. We are dream-teaming KeraFactor and laser technology to penetrate the serum to the perfect depth for regrowth. Your hair is parted, and the gentle laser is applied to your scalp. KeraFactor is immediately massaged into your skin, and you relax under a red light for 10 minutes. Following your appointment, you’ll simply apply the serum every other day at home. We typically recommend three to six treatments spaced six weeks apart. The results are good, as in “wow” before and after photos good. Contact our office to schedule your first KeraFactor with laser treatment, and please remember, you are never alone with us.
Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald is a Board Certified Dermatologist located in Larchmont Village with a special focus on anti-aging technology. She is a member of the Botox Cosmetic National Education Faculty and is an international Training Physician for Dermik, the makers of the injectable Sculptra. She is also among a select group of physicians chosen from around the world to teach proper injection techniques for Radiesse, the volumizing filler. Dr. Fitzgerald is an assistant clinical professor at UCLA. Visit online at www. RebeccaFitzgeraldMD.com or call (323) 464-8046 to schedule an appointment.
LARCHMONT CHRONICLE presents
Foreign countries, deep dive into government for college grads
By Nona Sue Friedman
There is the usual path— graduate from high school, go to college, graduate from college, get a job or continue another leg of your formal education. But what about those college graduates who decide to do something else? Each of these recent grads chose the path less taken for their first year out of college.
While attending UC Berkeley, Zöe Gittelson, of Brookside, spent one semester of her junior year studying in Madrid, Spain. “I loved living abroad and wanted to do it again,” the recent graduate
exclaimed.
And Gittelson made it happen. She will be spending this October through the end of May in Madrid. This time she will be an English teacher’s assistant. She applied and was accepted to a Spanish government program called the North American Language and Culture Assistants Program. The program fosters collaborative educational programs between the U.S. and Spain, similar to a Fulbright scholarship.
As part of the program, she will receive a monthly stipend but has to find her
own housing. She’s not worried since she’s already lived there.
Through the program, she may be assigned to work with pre-school children up through college aged students, a huge range, she noted. “I just have to be ready for whatever comes,” Gittelson said. She wants to become fluent in Spanish and feels this is an excellent opportunity.
After her time abroad, she plans on moving to Washington, D.C., to use her political science degree and find a job dealing with government policy or working for a political campaign, since it will be an election year.
Like Gittelson, Teva Corwin, of Windsor Square (the two are best friends), also spent time abroad during her tenure at Wesleyan University in Connecticut. She spent her junior year in Bogota, Colombia. “It was awesome; I loved it! It was the best thing ever,” she gushed.
“I didn’t want to enter the real world yet,” said the recent college graduate. She applied to different programs and received a Fulbright Foreign Scholarship, one of about 8,000 awarded worldwide. She is headed to Ciudad
Guzmán, a small, rural town, “with a Walmart,” Corwin noted, in Jalisco, Mexico. She is part of the English Teaching Assistant Program.
In Ciudad Guzmán, Corwin will work with undergraduates at a teachers’ training college. Additionally, she will teach at a pre-school, gaining experience with the oldest and youngest students.
Corwin didn’t find out she had been accepted to the Fulbright program until this summer. Normally recipients are told in April, but the Trump administration unlawfully canceled the
scholarships of close to 200 recipients. In June, the 12member bipartisan Fulbright board voted to resign, as their letter states, rather than endorse unprecedented conduct. “Actions that [the board] believe[s] are impermissible under law, compromise U.S. national interests and integrity, and undermine the mission and mandates Congress established for the Fulbright program nearly 80 years ago.” Additionally, the administration has cut hundreds of millions of dollars to the program. It’s uncertain
(Please turn to Page 20)
MEETING UP IN Spain while studying in Spain are neighborhood pals Zöe Gittelson and Eli Weiss.
EXPLORING COLOMBIA during her year abroad is Teva Corwin.
Empty nesters take time to reconnect, travel and even read
By Helene Seifer
It’s back-to-school season, when many parents need to help their children transition from summer fun to the rigors of education. But for those whose children are heading to college, it’s a time of trepidation and change. How are parents handling their empty nests?
Discovering new interests
“I was sad for maybe ten days,” remembered Kate Corsmeier, whose daughter Ondine is entering her junior year at Colgate University in Hamilton, New York. “Then it began to sink in. My time is my own.”
The Ridgewood resident is refreshing her college French and took up gardening. “I
needed something to nurture!” Corsmeier admitted. “I joined two book clubs. I don’t think I had read a book in 18 years!”
At first Ondine Corsmeier worried about her parents being alone and sent them to pottery classes and rooftop movie screenings. She needn’t have worried. The Corsmeiers have discovered pickle ball, playing every Friday with new friends who are also empty nesters. Kate Corsmeier noted their new spontaneity. “We went away for a weekend to Los Alamos on a whim.”
Husband Chris Corsmeier is more nostalgic. He wants to leave their daughter’s bedroom the way it was, whereas Kate stashes things in her daughter’s closet and uses her desk.
“There’s this part of your
life that’s suddenly gone,” Chris Corsmeier explains. “Driving them somewhere, helping with school projects. I have to get used to the dynamic that Ondine is an adult, not a child. She’s going to make her own decisions.”
Excited to reconnect Windsor Square residents Olivia and Steve Kazanjian have two daughters. Stella, a junior at nearby Scripps College in Claremont, California, can come home during weekends but will soon spend a semester in Copenhagen, Denmark. Grace (who goes by Gigi) is starting New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, so the Kazanjians will have a completely emp-
ty nest. They are embracing the change. In fact, Olivia engaged her older daughter in converting her bedroom into a guest and exercise room before leaving for college so she wouldn’t be shocked by the transformation. “Tears were shed while going through her stuff from the Plymouth School and St. James,” Olivia Kazanjian admitted. “Those were the best times of our lives.”
“When you’re a parent you have a responsibility to the kids to create an environment for them to be successful people, with kind characters,” said Steve Kazanjian. “We had dinner together nearly (Please turn to Page 20)
ENJOYING TIME TOGETHER, Chris and Kate Corsmeier bookend daughter Ondine.
THE KAZANJIANS: (from left) daughter Grace, Steve, Olivia and daughter Stella.
SARAH SHUN-LIEN BYNUM and Leigh Dana Jackson with daughter Willa Jackson.
Jaws returns for its 50th in new exhibit
By Julia Guillen
“Jaws: The Exhibition” will open Wed., Sept. 14, at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, 6067 Wilshire Blvd. “Jaws” was originally released in 1975, making this display a celebration of its 50th anniversary.
The exhibit will revisit Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster scene by scene, displaying original props, revealing glimpses behind the scenes of the film’s production and allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of “Jaws.”
With access to the director’s archives, the exhibition will explore the film’s production history. “Jaws” was based on the novel of the same name by writer Peter Bencheley.
The film was shot in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts starring Roy Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss and Robert Shaw.
The movie “Jaws in 4K,” will be screened in the David Geffen Theater on Sun., Sept. 14, at 6:30 pm. For tickets, visit tinyurl.com/4m7mnwsb
For more information visit tinyurl.com/4u8wabbs.
(1975). Courtesy of Margaret Herrick Library, Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Safety in L.A. is being taken seriously in this school year
By Julia Guillen
With school starting up again, many families fear for the safety of their children in the face of recent school shootings, traffic and immigration raids. Councilwoman Katy Yaroslavsky of Los Angeles Council District 5 reassured her constituents that protective measures are in place.
School Slow Zones
Since taking office, her district has helped establish hundreds of School Slow Zones citywide, introduced “No Right Turn on Red” restrictions and deployed close to 500 crossing guards.
Additionally, the Los Angeles Unified School
District (LAUSD) has expanded transportation for families who request it and trained principals and staff on what to do should immigration agents arrive near a school campus.
Red Cards Yaroslavsky’s office has also begun printing and distributing Red Cards free of charge. These cards illustrate what rights all people, regardless of immigration status, have under the U.S. Constitution.
LAUSD has also implemented a 24/7 Family Hotline for questions about school safety programs, which can be reached at 213-443-1300.
New Covenant Charity Golf Tournament set for Sept. 27
For a day of friendly competition and philanthropy, join in New Covenant Academy’s (NCA) annual Charity Golf Tournament.
The event, which takes place at noon on Sat., Sept. 27, at 27734 Sand Canyon Rd., Santa Clarita, supports New Covenant Academy’s stu-
dent-athletes and athletics programs.
Volunteers are encouraged to play in the golf tournament and invite others to join them, sponsor a golf hole and donate prize items. New Covenant Academy is at 3119 W. 6th St. Visit ncahuskies.org/ golf-tournament.
DIRECTOR STEVEN SPIELBERG, kneeling with camera, during production of “Jaws”
CAST AND CREW at production of the summer blockbuster. Courtesy of Universal Studios Licensing LLC.
Camp for underserved youth flourishes despite ICE fears
By Nona Sue Friedman
Four hundred and sixty seven underserved and unhoused kids from Los Angeles came to Camp Harmony, a free, four-night camp in Ojai, California in the middle of August. This was the biggest session in the camp’s more than 30-year existence. Before camp started, members of the board thought attendance might be an issue because of the fear that ICE raids have caused throughout the city.
“Many of these families are in a state of terror and uncertainty with regards to what is happening with ICE. The country isn’t the same,” said Drew Furedi, CEO of Para Los Niños (PLN) and a board member at United in Harmony, Camp Harmony’s parent organization. PLN is one of many institutions that Camp Harmony acquires campers from. It operates two charter schools and seven early education centers, where all of the student families fall below the federal poverty level, according to Furedi. “Camp Harmony gives the kids a few days of not having to worry,” he said.
Both Furedi and Camp Harmony executive director Lindsay Schwartz said they
received many more calls than previous years regarding the camp’s protocols for transporting and housing kids. “Parents were nervous and scared,” said Schwartz. This year camp buses weren’t allowed to make any stops once they picked up the campers.
Ten years ago, when Furedi took the job as CEO, one of the first things his staff talked to him about was the importance of Camp Harmony. Being a camper himself and knowing the positive impact it has on kids, he was all for continuing participation in the program. “Camp Harmony provides an experience for
these kids they would otherwise never have,” said Furedi. His son, who is a high school senior, was a counselor for his third and final year this summer.
The Chronicle caught up with Nick Melvoin at Camp Harmony’s carnival, the evening activity that serves as the finale for days spent at camp. The athletic field was transformed into a lively carnival buzzing with excitement, with games, giant slides, dunk tanks, prizes, soft serve and most importantly happy faces. Melvoin, a Larchmont Village resident, Los Angeles Unified School District board (Please turn to Page 13)
HANGING OUT WITH campers during the carnival is LAUSD board member and Camp Harmony Director Nick Melvoin.
FERRIS WHEEL attracted the biggest crowd at the carnival.
HELPING WITH THE GOLF booth at the carnival is volunteer and Hancock Park resident Robin Rosen.
WITH MOUNTAINS IN the background, the athletic field is magically transformed into a carnival.
A mindful approach to parenting and reducing stress for the whole family
By Nancy Redford
It’s the start of a new school year and your family will be wrestling with a new set of academic expectations, extracurricular demands, unspoken social rules and conflicting needs. Inevitably there will be times when stress will ratchet up and emotions will flare.
There are scientifically proven mindfulness techniques that can help reduce this stress and cultivate resilience. At the UCLA Mindful Awareness Research Center, studies on the psychological and physical health benefits of mindfulness have shown that it decreases anxiety, depression and stress and improves concentration and focus.
“Mindfulness means paying attention in a particular way: on purpose, in the present moment and non-judgmentally,” said Jon Kabat-Zinn, Ph.D., founder of the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Clinic.
The essence of mindful parenting is managing conflicts with curiosity, compassion and a calm center. For instance:
When things get tense, take a few deep breaths, focusing only on the present moment.
Without self judgment, acknowledge that you feel upset, angry or fearful; mentally note what factors led up to this moment; tune into your child and their behavior with as little judgment as possible; and problem solve from a calmer, clearer mental state, keeping in mind short- and long-term parenting goals. Sounds easy? Hardly! But we can train our mind to be less reactive and present-moment aware and bring that into our parenting. Consistency is the goal, so committing to a daily routine is important. Start small and
be patient with yourself.
Some useful meditative practices:
Breathing exercises
Find a comfortable posture and focus solely on full breaths through your nose, observing the flow of air in and out, feeling your belly rise and fall. Release any thoughts that arise, and return to your breath.
Body scan mediation
Either seated or lying down, starting from your toes and then up your body to your head, bring awareness to the sensations in your body and relax places where there is
physical tension. Guided meditations
An array of quality mediation apps can be downloaded and accessed, such as UCLA Mindful, Insight Timer, Jon Kabat-Zinn’s Meditation, Calm and Headspace.
A growing number of local schools offer parent mindfulness classes. Resources include Campbell Hall’s Parent Meditation Group, Harvard-Westlake’s Parent Mindfulness Club and LAUSD’s Inner Explorer program.
You can explore the topic of mindfulness and hear world-class teachers on the following podcast-series:
“Ten Percent Happier” calls itself “self-help for smart people” and is hosted by veteran journalist and best-selling author Dan Harris.
“Tara Brach,” hosted by Tara Brach, Ph.D., an internationally respected mediation teacher and author of “Radical Acceptance,” “True Refuge” and “Radical Compassion.”
You can also read about this topic in depth in publicaions:
“Parenting From the Inside Out” by Daniel J. Siegel and Mary Hartzell and “Everyday Blessings: The Inner Work of Mindful Parenting” by Jon
Kabat-Zinn and Myla Kabat-Zinn.
The effort you put into cultivating a mindful parenting practice is a significant investment toward creating family harmony and raising resilient and confident children.
Family-friendly
‘Hallowe’en’ marionette revue tickets on sale
Halloween entertainment is beginning early this year at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater. Tickets are on sale for the all-ages, hour-long “Hallowe’en Spooktacular,” which boasts over 100 puppets. Showtimes begin Sat., Sept. 6, at 10:30 a.m. and run through Sun., Nov. 9.
Costumes are encouraged, and costume parades will be held at every Spooktacular show starting in October. This year’s Spooktacular includes a Día de los Muertos tribute.
A sensory-friendly version of the show with reduced lighting and volume takes place Sat., Oct. 11.
For more information and to purchase tickets, visit bobbakermarionettetheater.com.
MINDFULNESS TECHNIQUES cultivate resilience in relationships between parents and children. Photo Luke Porter
Lunch Bunch creates clean cafeteria food and culinary classes
By Nona Sue Friedman
Natasha Case wanted to “make kids curious about food and more adventurous eaters.” She started the company Lunch Bunch after seeing how poorly kids eat at schools, especially in underserved neighborhoods.
Lunch Bunch is a multipronged company started in 2022. One part of their business creates school cafeteria meals for kids attending public school in grades K through 12. The prepackaged
meals are tasty, exclude artificial ingredients and are good for you. Case’s wife, Freya Estreller, and their two kids, who reside together in the Wilshire Park neighborhood, were some of the first tasters, most recently critiquing a
hand pie conceived as a twist on a Greek gyro.
Lunch Bunch has also morphed into a culinary after school program. Through research and conversations with school leaders, Case found that “After-school programs are the best funded part of the school day. Schools can’t spend it [state funds allocated for after-school programs] fast enough. Either use it or lose it.” Case also mentioned that Gov. Gavin Newsom has guaranteed the same funding for the next three years. For an entrepreneur like Case, who co-founded and then sold the wildly popular Coolhaus ice cream store, trucks and sandwiches with Estreller, this set the wheels in motion.
Case, along with a certified teacher and a fine dining chef, created an after-school program where kids create one themed culinary delight per week. Think kimchi quesadillas, mango lassi, Welsh tea cakes, crepes and sushi. She launched the test pilot program through a friend at Bright Star Los Angeles Charter Schools. It was a success! The kids were engaged in the programming. The administration liked how Lunch Bunch took care of all the details—all they needed was a table and an electrical outlet.
In addition to making a meal, kids learn fractions from the recipes, knife skills and about other countries and cultures.
Just a year and a half later,
Camp
(Continued from Page 11)
member, new dad and former counselor at Camp Harmony, is also the camp’s volunteer director.
“I pushed for the Ferris wheel,” he said with pride. The attraction had the longest line all of the night.
“Some of these kids haven’t left their home or shelter in months because of the ICE raids. Here, they don’t have to think about that,” said Melvoin. He works with a volunteer team to create an unforgettable experience filled with typical camp activities such as arts and crafts, a ropes course, soccer, swimming, cake decorating—the list goes on. The camp operates with a volunteer staff, and high school counselors
Lunch Bunch is in 20 Southern California school districts. Larchmont Charter, where Case’s kids go to school, is one of the local institutions where the after-school program takes place. At most public schools, the culinary class is paid for by the school, so the student attends for free. In January, the company is expanding to the Sacramento area. After that, there’s talk of adding other states as well.
Case says the students get such joy from the program that they’re more motivated to go to school. Recently, one mom contacted Case and told her that her child just made her an omelet for breakfast. Case is still waiting for her kids to do that!
To find out more, visit lunchbunch.com.
pay to help sponsor a child at camp.
Robin Rosen, of Hancock Park, started volunteering at Camp Harmony when she was a junior in high school.
Now she is an adult volunteer who brings her elementary school-aged kids with her to help out at the annual carnival.
Rosen continues to come because “seeing the joy on the kids’ faces and giving them the camp experience I was fortunate enough to have is just incredible.”
She’s encouraging her kids to be counselors one day. Rosen is typical of a lot of adult volunteers who keep coming back year after year and then bring their kids too.
For more information about Camp Harmony, visit unitedinharmony.org.
LUNCH BUNCH CEO Natasha Case enjoys some of her company’s product. Photo from CanvasRebel Magazine
UNIQUE HAND PIE flavors created by Lunch Bunch for schools.
AFTER SCHOOL, KIDS are excited to make guacamole.
Directory of private and public schools
Following is a list of private and public schools both in and outside the Larchmont Chronicle’s delivery area. The information was attained by phone, email and the school websites. For cost of tuition at private schools and more information, contact the schools or visit their webistes. If we have missed a school you think should be included, please reach out to circulation@larchmontchronicle.com.
Kindergarten key:
K = kindergarten
TK = transitional K
PK = pre-K
DK = developmental K Nursery Schools
SPARK PRESCHOOL
4679 La Mirada Ave.
323-422-9690 ourccp.com
For children ages 2 to 6. Hours are 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m., with half and full day options and aftercare until 5 p.m.
CHRISTOPHER ROBIN PRESCHOOL
815 N. Alta Vista Blvd. 323-934-6512
christopherrobinpreschool. com
Susan Huber and Elizabeth de Roo, co-directors. For children ages 1 to 5 years, including parent and toddler and TK programs. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
HAPPY BIRCH PRESCHOOL
1423 & 1429 Tamarind Ave. 323-380-7311
happybirchpreschool.com
Dr. George and Mali Rand, co-founders. For children ages 1 to 5 years, including parent and toddler and TK programs. Hours are 8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m., with aftercare until 5 p.m.
IKAR EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
910 S. Fairfax Ave. 323-634-1870
ikar.org/learn/ecc
Dr. Jane Rosen, director of education. Children ages 18 months to 5 years.
NEW HORIZON SCHOOL
434 S. Vermont Ave. 213-480-3145
newhorizonla.org
Jolanda Hendricks, principal. Islamic education for preschool and kindergarten.
PLYMOUTH SCHOOL
315 S. Oxford Ave.
213-387-7381 theplymouthschool.com
Diana Conforti, director. Ages 2 to 5. Full days are 8:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. Half days are 8:45 to 11:45 a.m.
ST. JAMES’ EPISCOPAL PRESCHOOL
625 S. Gramercy Pl. 213-382-2315
sjsla.org
Rochelle Rosel, director. Ages 2 to 5. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with before and after school care at 8 a.m. and until 5 p.m.
SHIR-HASHIRIM
MONTESSORI SCHOOL
6047 Carlton Way 323-465-1638
montessorihollywood.org
Elene Cielak, director. Ages 2 to 5. Hours are 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with before and after school care at 8 a.m. and until 5 p.m
SUNSET MONTESSORI PRESCHOOL
1432 N. Sycamore Ave. 323-465-8133
sunsetmontessori.com
Liliya Kordon, head of school. Serves ages 2 to 5 and offers parent and me classes for kids 18 months and up.
WAGON WHEEL SCHOOL
653 N. Cahuenga Blvd. 323-469-8994 wagonwheelschool.org
Ruth Segal, director. Ages 2 to 5, 110 students. Hours are 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., with optional after school care until 4:30 p.m.
JLA EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
5870 W. Olympic Blvd. 323-938-2531 thejla.org/ecc
Lauren Friedman, director. Ages 6 weeks to 5 years; infant care, preschool and TK. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
WALTHER SCHOOL
1246 N. Gardner St. 323-378-5732 waltherschool.org
Gloria Walther, head of school. For children ages 2 1/2 years to PK. Hours are either 9 a.m. to noon or 1 to 4 p.m. Mon., Tue., Thur. and Fri. For PK only, hours are Wed. from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
WILSHIRE BLVD. TEMPLE
ERIKA J. GLAZER EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
3663 Wilshire Blvd. 213-835-2125 wbtecc.org
Floryn Rosendberg, site director. Ages 18 months to 5 years. Offers baby and me classes from birth to 2 1/2 years.
Parochial and Private Schools
ARCHER SCHOOL FOR GIRLS 11725 Sunset Blvd. 310-873-7000 archer.org
Elizabeth English, head of school. Grades six to 12; 500 students.
BAIS YAAKOV
SCHOOL FOR GIRLS
7353 Beverly Blvd. 323-938-3231
Joel Bursztyn, director. Ninth to 12th grade.
BRAWERMAN
ELEMENTARY WEST
11661 W. Olympic Blvd. 424-208-8934
BRAWERMAN
ELEMENTARY EAST 3663 Wilshire Blvd. 213-835-2170 brawerman.org
Gillian Feldman, head of school at East; Brandon Cohen, head of school at West. K to sixth grade, coed.
BRISKIN ELEMENTARY
TEMPLE ISRAEL OF HOLLYWOOD
7300 Hollywood Blvd. 323-876-8330, ext. 4000 briskinelementary.org
Hannah Bennett, head of school. K to sixth grade. After-school enrichment and supervision, Mon. - Thur. until 4:15 p.m.
THE BUCKLEY SCHOOL 3900 Stansbury Ave. 818-783-1610 buckley.org
Alona Scott, head of school. K to 12th grade. 830 students.
755 S. Cochran Ave. 213-883-4399 cathedralchapelschool.org
Donielle Mitchell, principal. Founded in 1930. K to eighth grade.
CENTER FOR EARLY EDUCATION
563 N. Alfred St. 323-651-0707 centerforearlyeducation.org
Damian Jones, head of school. Founded in 1939; 540 students. Ages 2 to sixth grade.
CHRIST THE KING
CATHOLIC SCHOOL
617 N. Arden Blvd. 323-462-4753 cksla.org
Ruth Anderson, principal. Catholic school that serves TK to eighth grade.
CURTIS SCHOOL 15871 Mulholland Dr. 310-476-1251 curtisschool.org
Meera Ratnesar, head of school. Founded in 1925. DK to sixth grade.
ECHO HORIZON
3430 McManus Ave. 310-838-2442 echohorizon.org
Peggy Procter, head of school. PK to sixth grade; 180 students.
FLINTRIDGE PREP 4543 Crown Ave., La Cañada Flintridge 818-790-1178 flintridgeprep.org
Vanessa Walker-Oakes, head of school. Seventh to 12th grade. FUSION ACADEMY 5757 Wilshire Blvd. 323-692-0603 fusionacademy.com
Jason Lions, area head of school. Rolling admission for grades six through 12. In-person and online customized one-to-one education with fulland part-time options.
HARVARD-WESTLAKE MIDDLE SCHOOL
700 N. Faring Rd. 310-274-7281
UPPER SCHOOL
3700 Coldwater Canyon Ave. 818-980-6692 hw.com
Richard Commons, president; Laura Ross, head of school. Serves grades seventh to 12th grade.
HOLLYWOOD SCHOOLHOUSE
1233 N. McCadden Pl. 323-465-1320 hshla.org
Ilise Faye, head of school. Preschool to sixth grade.
IMMACULATE HEART HIGH SCHOOL AND MIDDLE SCHOOL 5515 Franklin Ave. 323-461-3651 immaculateheart.org
Maureen S. Diekmann, president; Naemah Z. Morris, high school principal; Gina B. Finer, middle school principal. Girls-only Catholic school for sixth through 12th grades; 700 students.
INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF LOS ANGELES, LYCÉE INTERNATIONAL 13639 Victory Blvd. 818-782-4001 internationalschoolla.com
Anneli Harvey, head of school. Four campuses throughout Los Angeles serving pre-school (Los Feliz) through 12th grade.
LAURENCE SCHOOL 13639 Victory Blvd. 818-782-4001 laurenceschool.com
Laurie Wolke, head of school. K to sixth grade.
LE LYCÉE FRANÇAIS DE LOS ANGELES 3261 Overland Ave. 310-836-3464 lyceela.org
Clara-Lisa Kabbaz, president. French and English curriculums available. Preschool to 12th grade; coed. Six campuses throughout Los Angeles.
Kristin Dickson, head of school. Ages 2 to eighth grade.
PARK CENTURY
3939 Landmark St. 310-979-2184
parkcenturyschool.org
Dr. Julie Porter, head of school. Serves kindergarten to eighth grade with language-based learning differences.
PILGRIM
540 S. Commonwealth Ave. 213-385-7351 pilgrim-school.org
Patricia Kong, head of school. Parent and me and preschool through 12th grade.
ST. BRENDAN
CATHOLIC SCHOOL
238 S. Manhattan Pl. 213-382-7401
stbrendanschoolla.org
Collette Young, principal. K to eighth grade.
ST. JAMES’ EPISCOPAL
625 S. St. Andrews Pl. 213-382-2315 sjsla.org
Diane Rich, head of school. PK to sixth grade.
THE SCHOOL OF LOS ANGELES 6325 Santa Monica Blvd. 323-462-3752 school.la
Dr. Kenneth Rodgers, Jr., head of school. Grades six through 12; 211 students.
SHALHEVET HIGH
910 S. Fairfax Ave. 323-930-9333 shalhevet.org
Rabbi David Block, head of school; Daniel Weslow, principal. Jewish; grades nine to 12.
STEM3 ACADEMY 6455 Coldwater Canyon Ave. 877-943-5747 stem3academy.org
Megan Davis and Zaldy Ramirez are co-heads of the school. Specializes in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) subjects for students with high-functioning autism, ADHD or other social or learning challenges.
TREE ACADEMY
8628 Holloway Dr. 424-204-5165 treeacademy.org
Phú Tranchí, head of school. Sixth to 12th grades. Provides accredited small classes with individualized instruction.
TURNING POINT
8780 National Blvd. 310-841-2505 turningpointschool.org
Dr. Laura Konigsberg, head of school. Pre-school to eighth grade.
VISTAMAR SCHOOL
737 Hawaii St., El Segundo 310-643-7377 vistamarschool.org
Erik Carlson, interim head of school. Ninth to 12th grade.
WESLEY SCHOOL
4832 Tujunga Ave. 818-508-4542 wesleyschool.org
Greg Armbister, head of school. K to eighth grade.
WESTMARK SCHOOL 5461 Louise Ave. 818-986-5045 westmarkschool.org
Claudia Koochek, head of school. For children in grades two through 12 with language-based learning differences.
WESTRIDGE SCHOOL
324 Madeline Dr. 626-799-1153 westridge.org
Andrea Kassar, head of school. Girls only; fourth to 12th grades.
WILLOWS COMMUNITY 8509 Higuera St. 310-815-0411 thewillows.org
Lisa Rosenstein, head of school. DK to eighth grade.
YAVNEH HEBREW ACADEMY 5353 W. Third St. 323-931-5808 yha.org
Rabbi Dr. Eitan Lipstein, head of school. Established in 1958. From age 2 to eighth grade.
Public Elementary Schools
CHARLES H. KIM
225 S Oxford Ave. 213-368-5600
charleshkimes.lausd.org
Jonathan Paek, principal. K to fifth grade. Special education, gifted and talented, Spanish immersion, maintenance bilingual Korean program and structured English immersion programs.
CITIZENS OF THE WORLD HOLLYWOOD 1316 N. Bronson Ave. 323-464-4292
(Continued on Page 16)
cwchollywood.org
Kim Clerx, principal. TK to fifth grade. Charter school.
CITIZENS OF THE WORLD
SILVER LAKE
110 N. Coronado St. 323-705-9882
cwcsilverlake.org
Dr. Maureen Lamorena-Tatsui, principal. Charter school. TK to fifth grade.
LARCHMONT CHARTER
FAIRFAX
1265 N. Fairfax Ave. 323-656-6418
larchmontcharter.org
Mersedeh Emrani, principal; Jennifer Santangelo, assistant principal. TK to fourth grade.
LARCHMONT CHARTER
WILSHIRE
Grades TK - 3
4900 Wilshire Blvd. 323-836-0860
Grade 4 6611 Selma Ave. 323-836-0860
larchmontcharter.org
Eva Orozco, principal; Domi Miyamoto, assistant principal. TK to fourth grade.
MELROSE MATHEMATICS/ SCIENCE/ TECHNOLOGY MAGNET
731 N. Detroit St. 323-938-6275
melroseave.lausd.org
Mathew Needleman, principal. K to fifth grade. Gifted and talented program.
NEW LOS ANGELES
5753 Obama Blvd. 323-556-9500
newlaelementary.org
Jenna Rosenberg, principal. K to fifth grade. Charter school.
THIRD STREET
201 S. June St. 323-939-8337
thirdstreetschool.com
Hae Lee, principal. TK to fifth grade. Gifted magnet and Korean dual language programs.
VAN NESS AVENUE
501 N. Van Ness Ave. 323-469-0992
vannessavees.lausd.org
Regina Ramos, principal. TK to fifth grade for general education; PK to fifth grade for visual impairment special education. Science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) program, Mandarin language program.
WILSHIRE CREST
5241 W. Olympic Blvd. 323-938-5291 wilshirecrestes.lausd.org
Gayle Robinson, principal. TK to fifth grade; PALs (preschool special education); Spanish immersion program.
WILSHIRE PARK
4063 Ingraham St. 213-739-4760 wilshireparkes.lausd.org
LeighAnne Creary, principal. TK to fifth grade. Korean immersion program, K to first grade.
WILTON PLACE
745 S. Wilton Pl. 213-389-1181
wiltones.lausd.org
Marie-France Rallion, principal. TK to fifth grade. Dual-language programs for Spanish / English and Korean / English. School for advanced studies in grades third to fifth. Public Middle Schools
CITIZENS OF THE WORLD SILVER LAKE
152 N. Vermont Ave. 323-705-9882 cwcsilverlake.org
James Boganey, co-principal. Sixth to eighth grade. Charter school.
JOHN BURROUGHS MIDDLE SCHOOL
600 McCadden Pl. 323-549-5000 burroughsms.lausd.org
Steve Martinez, principal; Samuel Corral, magnet coordinator. Sixth to eighth grade. National magnet school of excellence, school for advanced studies, Korean and Spanish dual language programs.
Yasmin Esmail, principal; Greg Colleton, assistant principal. Grades five to eight.
NEW LOS ANGELES MIDDLE SCHOOL
1919 S. Burnside Ave. 323-939-6400 newlamiddle.org Terrence Wright, principal.
Grades six to eight. Public High Schools
FAIRFAX HIGH
7850 Melrose Ave. 323-370-1200 fairfaxhs.org
Leonard Choi, principal. Ninth to 12th grade. Programs feature career technical education, visual arts and police academy magnets.
GIRLS ACADEMIC LEADERSHIP
ACADEMY, DR. MICHELLE KING
SCHOOL FOR STEM 2328 St. James Pl. 323-900-4533 galacademy.org
Dr. Elizabeth Hicks, principal. Sixth to 12th grades. Girls only. Concentrates in STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) subjects.
GRAND ARTS
450 N. Grand Ave. 213-217-8600 grandartshs.lausd.org
Jewel Brown, principal. Grades nine through 12. Focuses on the arts.
HAMILTON HIGH 2955 S. Robertson Blvd. 310-280-1400 hamiltonhs.org
Jennifer Baxter, president. Ninth to 12th grade. Includes business and interactive technology academy, communication arts academy and school for advanced stud-
ies. Magnet schools include music, performing arts and humanities.
HOLLYWOOD HIGH 1521 N. Highland Ave. 323-993-1700
hollywoodhighschool.net
Samuel Dovlatian, principal. Grades nine through 12. Teaching career academy, performing arts magnet, school for advanced studies and new media magnet.
LARCHMONT CHARTER
LAFAYETTE PARK
2801 W. Sixth St. 213-867-6300
larchmontcharter.org
Mike Kang, principal; Robert Marquez and Haydee Garay, assistant principals. Grades nine to 12.
LOS ANGELES COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL FOR THE ARTS
5151 State University Dr., Bldg. 20 323-343-2550 lachsa.net
Tina Vartanian, principal. Ninth to 12th grade. Specializing in college preparatory for visual and performing arts.
LOS ANGELES HIGH 4650 W. Olympic Blvd. 323-900-2700 lahigh.org
Marguerette Gladden, principal. Ninth to 12th grade. Includes science, technology, engineering, arts and math magnet, career and technical education and gifted and talented program.
Soccer
season
The fall soccer season for AYSO Region 78 Hollywood-Wilshire is readying to start on Sat., Sept. 6.
readies to kick off Sept. 6, volunteers needed
The younger divisions, 5 and 6 and under, kick off the following week, on Sat., Sept. 13
Sports and Teen Club offered at Seoul International
By Julia Guillen
This fall, basketball, soccer, flag football and volleyball will be offered by the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks at Seoul International Park for ages 3 to 17. Tryouts are hosted throughout September, and teams begin practicing on Mon., Oct. 20.
A Teen Club is also being offered for kids ages 11 to 17 looking to participate in sports, games and field trips.
Park
There is also resources for homework help, internship opportunities and more on Mondays through Thursdays from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and Fridays from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
While the Teen Club is free, the sports have a $10 fee per sport. The Seoul International Park is located at 3250 San Marino St. For more infor, call 213-383-7549 or email admore.recreationcenter@ lacity.org.
1948
“While regular registration closed July 31, there are still a few openings in different divisions. Registration for our 5U/6U division (birth years 2021/2022) will remain open as we will form as many teams as possible as long as we have enough volunteers,” Regional Commissioner Kurt Muller, of Larchmont Village, told us.
AYSO is an all-volunteer organization.
“AYSO has been the soccer league for Larchmont and the neighboring communities since 1976. We are already looking forward to the 50th anniversary next year,” Muller said.
Campus Tours: starting in September
Parent & Me: ages 14-24 months
Pre-school and TK: ages 2-5 years
Location: 653 N. Cahuenga Blvd.
Web: www wagonwheelschool.org
Phone: 323-469-8994
“We always encourage everyone to register ASAP, since we start coordinating volunteer coach and referee training in mid-August,” Muller continues.
The home field for practices and games will be at Fairfax High School, with a few other additional fields for space as needed.
Sign-ups for girls’ basketball ends Sept. 10
Goldie’s Youth Sports girls’ basketball league sign-ups are open through Wed., Sept. 10, for girls ranging from first grader through 16 years old. The fall season is from Mon., Oct. 6, through Sun. Dec. 7, at St. Brendan School Gym, 238 S. Manhattan Pl. Practices are weekly and games take place on weekends beginning in October. For more information and fees contact goldie@goldiesyouthsports.com.
Wilshire Wildcats set to play softball with first game Sept. 13
While early registration has passed, regular registration is open until the Wilshire Wildcats girls’ softball team’s first game on Sat., Sept. 13. Practice games are already underway at Lemon Grove Recreation Center, Wilshire Board President Keith Perera told us.
“Our season ends in the
beginning of November. This fall we will have a 10-and-under, 12-and-under, and high school team,” he added. You can visit their instagram: @wilshirewildcatssoftball. To register, go to wilshiresoftball. com. For more information contact Keith at 323-383-5954, or president@wilshiresoftball.com.
Holocaust Museum LA offers programs at Skirball, The Grove
By Julia Guillen
Holocaust Museum LA is closed for construction until June 2026. However, it still offers many not-to-be-missed off-site programs.
“Art Spiegelman: Disaster Is My Muse” is a film that will be shown Sun., Sept. 7 at 4 p.m. at the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd.
The same day at 5 p.m. at
Barnes & Noble, 189 The Grove Dr., co-author Aron Hirt-Manheimer will discuss his book “Sons of Survivors: Making Peace with Inherited Trauma.” The memoir is about growing up in Los Angeles as the son of Holocaust survivors. “Where They Settled: Holocaust Suvivors in Mexico” is Mon., Sept. 18 at 4 p.m. online. Visit holocaustmuseumla.org.
COACH Nicole àBeckett and a team of girls ages 10 and under in the AYSO All-Stars Region 78 spring tournament.
For high school athletic trainers, it’s not all tape and ice
My son sprained his ankle skateboarding the last weekend of June. He was expected to play volleyball with his club team in Orlando, Florida, eight days later, and if there was any chance of that happening, he needed a hastened rehabilitation. I knew that icing the ankle immediately was crucial, but had no idea how to accelerate the healing process afterwards.
My good friend Jim Reilly was a student athletic trainer for Ohio State’s football team, then later became the head trainer at Central Catholic High School in Toledo, Ohio. He received a master’s degree in athletic administration from the University of Toledo. Central Catholic has won three state titles in football the past five years, and an integral part of that program is Reilly. If there were any speedy methods for rehabilitating my son’s ankle, he would know them.
Tape Caden Chavez will be at-
Flag football, soccer at Pan Pacific Park
The Pan Pacific Park Recreation Center runs flag football and soccer programs for kids on a first-come, first-served basis beginning Sat., Sept. 27, sponsored by the City of Los Angeles Dept. of Recreations and Parks. The cost is $145 for eight weeks and the center is at 7600 Beverly Blvd. Evaluations for each division begin in early September. For the youngest “Mighty Mites” division no evaluation is involved. Payments must be made no later than the first week of the month. Persons with disabilities are welcomed. Visit laparks.org/ reccenter/pan-pacific.
Youth
Sports
by Jim Kalin
tending Fordham University this fall, and plans on studying business. He graduated from Loyola High School last spring, where he played baseball and was a student athletic trainer for the football team.
“I was a member of Loyola’s Sports Medicine Club starting my freshman year,” said Chavez. “It was run by the athletic trainers.”
Chavez was interested in studying the body and how it performed and functioned during athletics. The club focused on injury prevention as well.
“I had a friend who was already in the club, so it seemed like it would be fun.”
Chavez’s favorite sport as a trainer was football. His duties included taping the players before practice and competition and helping on the sidelines during Friday night games.
“The players, trainers, and coaches were fun to be around. I just remember laughing all the time.”
Student athletic trainers aren’t permitted to address injuries, but Chavez did observe the adult trainers as they worked on injured players.
“The trainers would talk to me about it afterwards so I could learn what to do,” said Chavez. “I’ll miss the athletes, and especially the trainers We joked a lot with each other and shared a lot of camaraderie.”
One of those trainers was Tim Moscicki.
Ice
“I’ve been doing this for 36 years,” said Moscicki. “Sports go year-round, so there are no breaks. Athletic trainers can put in 60 to 70 hours of work in a week.”
Tim Moscicki attended Loyola rival St. Frances High School. Unlike Caden Chavez, he wasn’t involved in athletic training as a student.
Carnival to benefit Wilshire LAPD is weekend of Sept. 19-21
By Nona Sue Friedman
Wilshire Division Police Station will transform Venice Boulevard into a carnival starting Fri., Sept. 19 at 5
p.m. The street will be filled with rides, food and entertainment for all ages. The entire community is encouraged to come. Residents can meet their local officers.
Advance tickets to support Wilshire’s youth and Cadet programs, as well as their station fund can be purchased at the station’s front desk at 4861 Venice Blvd. through Thurs., Sept 18. The carnival is open until 11 p.m. on Friday, Sat. and
JOSH GALLAGHER (left), who graduates in 2026, with his friend and former Loyola student, athletic trainer Caden Chavez.
Instead he ran cross country and track and played soccer. It wasn’t until attending Cal Poly in San Luis Obispo that he became interested in athletic training.
“I took a college class, and the rest is history.”
Moscicki has been at Loyola for 28 years and is the head athletic trainer and director
Neighbors
Sun., Sept. 20 and 21 from 2 to 11 p.m.
Please note that Venice Blvd. will be closed in both directions from Rimpau Boulevard to La Brea Avenue starting Wed., Sept. 17 through the end of the festivities.
For questions, contact the station at 213-472-0200.
of student health for the entire student body. He’s the coordinator for the school’s Concussion Program and is responsible for coordinating and communicating with physicians, parents, administrators, teachers and coaches in matters that affect a student’s physical health.
“The list goes on,” he laughed.
Of course Moscicki is a Loyola sports fan, but he also follows NASCAR. He admires the late, great L.A. Dodger athletic trainer Bill Buehler, too.
“I always thought it was cool when Bill Buehler went out to take care of a Dodger,” he said. “Unfortunately, I never met him.”
My son was not healed enough to play in Orlando—his sprain was severe, a syndesmonic injury—but Reilly’s rehabilitation routine amazingly got him off crutches before he travelled to Florida. He was at least able to cheer his team on.
‘Walk with a Cop’
By Julia Guillen Larchmont residents
Marcelo Ziperovich and Clare Sebenius founded SideWalking to combat their loneliness, get outside and meet their neighbors. This month, there are two walks scheduled.
The first, “Walk with a Cop,” is on Mon., Sept. 15 at 6 p.m. Participants can meet with officers from LAPD
Olympic and Wilshire divisions and learn about what’s going on in the city.
The second event is the “Third Wednesday of the Month Walk” on Sept. 17, at 6 p.m. The walk starts and ends at Chevalier’s bookstore, 133 N. Larchmont Blvd.
All walks are free. Visit sidewalking.org for more information.
Van Ness teachers get together at Original Farmers Market
By Nona Sue Friedman
For the past six or seven years, current and former teachers from Van Ness Elementary, most of whom have retired, gather twice a year at the Original Farmers Market.
“It’s the perfect place,” said Bettijane Pike, a retired third-
grade teacher, “because you can grab a table and everyone can eat whatever they want.” She also likes it because it’s in the neighborhood.
The Hospitality Group, as they call themselves, organizes the gatherings every summer and Decem-
ber. Many are invited, and whoever can come joins the get-together. It’s a way to stay connected and a time for the group to catch up on everyone’s families, hear what’s happening at school and reminisce about their workdays together.
VAN NESS TEACHERS gather to celebrate their coworker’s retirement after 38 years. Seated (from left) are America Madrigal, Toiya Collins and Alejandra Mercado. Standing behind (from left) are Barbara Zielinski, Gail Holland, Sean Kearney and Malinda Troy. Standing at right, front row: Susan Levin, Julie Ramos; Back row: Bettijane Pike and Anne Bell.
At the most recent July gathering, they celebrated the retirement of Toiya Collins, who primarily taught fifth grade. She spent the last 28 years of her 38-year teaching career at Van Ness.
Barbara Zielinski, of Windsor Boulevard, started teaching kindergarten at the
LIBRARIES
FAIRFAX
161 S. Gardner St. 323-936-6191
JOHN C. FREMONT 6121 Melrose Ave. 323-962-3521
MEMORIAL
4625 W. Olympic Blvd. 323-938-2732
WILSHIRE
149 N. St. Andrews Pl. 323-957-4550
HOURS
Mon. and Wed., 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Tue. and Thu., noon to 8 p.m.; Fri. and Sat., 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. The library will be closed Mon., Sept. 1.
school in 1989 and retired in 2013. When she would arrive at school, she’d comment, “I live only four blocks away but have already driven 20 miles.” She chauffeured her three kids, who went to high school in Burbank.
Pike, who grew up at Fourth Street and Lorraine Boulevard and now lives in West L.A., spent 20 years as a teacher at Van Ness. She loves the smaller neighborhood school and that it’s integrated with the Frances Blend School, which serves students with physical learning differences, primarily sight.
Real-life Hogwarts celebrates 50 years at the Magic Castle
By Julia Guillen
The Magic Castle’s Academy of Magical Arts (AMA) doesn’t have flying broomsticks, potions or moving staircases (at least, not that
Music Center’s Spotlight program is free and open to high school students
By Nathan Rifkin
The Music Center’s free Spotlight program offers Southern Californian high school students a chance to compete for scholarships and hone their artistry. Entrants of all skill levels are encouraged to apply. Students can apply online and submit video auditions in acting, ballet, dance, instrumental and voice categories. Semifinal-
Empty Nesters
(Continued from Page 9)
every night. Now Olivia and I can say, ‘What do you want to do tonight?’”
Olivia Kazanjian stated, “I’m looking forward to just being together [with Steve] for the first time in 18 years.”
Steve Kazanjian concurs.
“She and I love each other more now than we ever have before. I’m so excited to reconnect with each other as people who are not 25 anymore.”
Embracing spontaneity
Sarah Shun-lien Bynum and husband Leigh Dana Jackson have been empty nesters for two years. Their daughter Willa Jackson is a junior at Yale University. They have adjusted to their new status after a rocky start. “We were in denial,” explains Bynum. Jackson agrees, “For the first year we walked around shell-shocked. By her sophomore year, we started to get in the groove.”
Before their daughter moved out, the Windsor Square family habitually had dinners together. “That immediately evaporated,” admits Jackson. “We text, ‘Want to just do sushi tonight?’ When Willa came home, she looked in the empty refrigerator and asked, ‘Do you guys eat anymore?’”
“We’re more spontaneous,” says Jackson. “I said, ‘Hey do you want to go to Japan in a couple of weeks?’ It was our first solo trip since before we were parents!”
The couple enjoy their time together, but in one aspect they haven’t moved on: Their daughter’s room has not been touched. Jackson laughs, “Her room is preserved in amber, like a mosquito in ‘Jurassic Park’.”
Jackson notes one unanticipated effect of their daughter starting college. “For 18 years I walked through Larchmont and knew every kid. Now when I go to the Sunday farmers’ market, I see families with strollers and bikes. They know all the kids, not us.”
ists may participate in mastery classes, where professional artists will give them feedback. For each category The Music Center will announce two grand prize finalists and honorable mentions. Finalists will perform at the Ahmanson Theatre in May 2026.
This year marks the 38th year of the program, which annually awards more than $100,000 in scholarships. Each contestant can win up to $5,000.
Video tutorials, tips from experts and more resources for applicants are accessible on The Music Center’s Spotlight Academy website.
The deadline to apply is Mon., Oct. 13. Visit musiccenter.org/spotlight.
Grads
(Continued from Page 8)
whether it will be able to continue. Corwin could be one of the last students to receive this prestigious grant.
“I love school. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to ask questions and think about ideas and [school] is a space for that,” commented Eli Weiss of Windsor Square. He recently graduated from Claremont McKenna College with a degree in government.
Weiss is the recipient of a public service fellowship that focuses on leadership in Los Angeles. Starting this month and continuing for the next nine, he will be one of a dozen recent graduates participating in this program.
Weiss will be placed at different organizations throughout his time in the program— government, private sector, nonprofit—to learn about and see leadership in action. “I want to learn what it takes to be a good leader,” said Weiss. “It gives me a chance to talk with and learn from leaders.”
After this program, he’s thinking of going to graduate school and then applying to law school. He truly does love school!
we know of), but it still offers its own kind of magic school through its Junior Society, which just turned 50. Typically, AMA’s clubhouse, the Magic Castle, is not available to anyone under the age of 21. However, the an-
nual Future Stars of Magic Week, which took place last month, invites skilled junior magicians to perform at the invitation-only Magic Castle, located at 7001 Franklin Ave., Los Angeles.
The AMA Junior Society was founded in 1975 for youths between 13 and 20 to learn magic. Today, 81 students are enrolled, hailing from 18 U.S. states and seven countries across the globe.
For more information on the Academy of Magical Arts Junior Society, visit magiccastle.com.
College besties start the morning a new way—with chickpeas
By Julia Guillen
Chickpeas are one of the world’s oldest legumes. But in nearly 10,000 years of cultivation, there has never been a chickpea-based hot cereal until ChiChi.
When Los Angeles native and Marlborough School alumna Chiara Munzi was in college at Washington University in St. Louis, she became frustrated with the lack of simple, healthy breakfast options. She had quickly found that eating oatmeal every morning made her tired later in the
day, which she discovered was because the oats spiked her blood sugar, resulting in sugar crashes.
“I was eating a lot of regular oatmeal, but I would end up just getting hungry an hour after eating it,” Munzi said.
She began experimenting with garbanzo beans in her dorm kitchen, developing what she dubbed “chickpea oatmeal.” She then introduced it to her friend and classmate, Iowa native Izzy Gorton, who was smitten.
“[I] knew we needed to share [chickpea oatmeal] with the world,” Gorton said in their website video.
The two became business partners while still at college. After extensive recipe testing, they perfected the chickpea-based hot cereal. ChiChi is high in protein and fiber and cooks in three minutes.
Munzi and Gorton began selling ChiChi at farmers’ markets and got overwhelmingly positive responses from early customers, including six-time Olympic medalist Jackie Joyner-Kersee.
Two years later, ChiChi is now reaching mass retail in Target stores across Southern California. ChiChi can also be bought online in four flavors: Original, Maple Brown Sugar, Apple Cinnamon and Dark Chocolate.
“Our mission is to disrupt the whole breakfast industry with chickpeas,” Munzi said.
For more information on this breakfast alternative, visit chichifoods.com.
Teens to make tortillas and salsa at La Cocina de Gloria Molina
By Julia Guillen
A cooking class on corn tortillas and salsa will be offered Sat., Sept. 20, for teens ages 13 to 18.
La Cocina de Gloria Molina is a cultural center in downtown L.A. that provides culinary programs for all ages. The teen class runs from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. It teaches teens basic food prep skills and best practices for kitchen
safety.
The class is hosted by guest chef Glenda Galvan Garcia, who has worked in the culinary industry for over 25 years and recently published a cookbook titled “The Whole Enchilada: Mexican Recipes Full of History and Fun.” To sign up, visit tinyurl. com/2weywvn3.
La Cocina de Gloria Molina is at 555 Spring St.
International school celebrates 60 years
By Julia Guillen
Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles is a French college preparatory school that offers a bilingual immersion curriculum from preschool through 12th grade. The school was founded in 1964 by Raymond and Esther Kabbaz, but it was not officially opened until the following year. At the time, schools in California were prohibited from teaching in any language other than English. The couple petitioned to change the code of education, and in August 1965 Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles could finally admit students. The school is still run by the Kabbaz family, with the current principal being Esther and Raymond Kabbaz’s daughter, Clara-Lisa Kabbaz.
educational environment.
While attending Le Lycée, students are immersed in French language and culture and have the opportunity to take courses in Latin, Greek, Mandarin, Spanish and German. The school also offers 27 advanced placement classes, extensive libraries for research and studying, labs for science and technology and areas for physical education. Graduating students earn both a U.S. high school diploma and a French baccalaureate.
Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles has five campuses across West Los Angeles and Pacific Palisades. The main campus is located at 3261 Overland Ave.
This year marks the school’s 60th anniversary. Since the school’s founding, it has expanded to encompass students of over 50 nationalities, fostering a multicultural
“We are blessed watching our students grow from preschoolers into knowledgeable, talented and dedicated high school graduates who are motivated…to go out into the world and achieve greatness,” said Principal Clara-Lisa Kabbaz.
CHICHI FOUNDERS Chiara Munzi (left) and Izzy Gorton.
A BOWL of ChiChi with fruit.
Fair to return Oct. 26 with rides, costume contest and a tribute
By Suzan Filipek
Larchmont Family Fair returns for its 60th year with rides and fun for all ages on Sun., Oct. 26 on Larchmont Boulevard. The Boulevard will be closed to traffic between Beverly Boulevard and First Street.
The street fair will feature a children’s costume contest, rides, live music and cuisine from around the world. Booths will be set up by schools, churches and nonprofits.
Jane Gilman, co-founder of the fair, (and co-founder of the Larchmont Chronicle), will be honored.
“Let’s celebrate her for being a catalyst for starting all of this,” said Romi Cortier, president of the Larchmont Boulevard Association (LBA), sponsor of the fair.
Cortier is asking friends and neighbors to share sto-
IMMACULATE HEART
Madison Dang
11th Grade
ries of themselves and their families in regards to the fair as part of a tribute to Gilman to take place at the fair. To be included, reach out to Cortier at romicortier@yahoo.com.
“With an estimated 10,000 visitors, the Larchmont Family Fair is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness and funds for your organization.”
Also planned is a photo booth near Tailwaggers. Beer, wine and wine spritzers will be poured at a bar outside La Bettola di Terroni restaurant.
The Larchmont Village Farmers’ Market will be open in its usual spot in the Village park-
ing lot, fair organizer Melissa Farwell said.
Businesses, schools and groups from both down the street to far and wide can apply to have a booth at the fair.
“The more the merrier,” said Larchmont Boulevard Association board member Edie Frère.
Nonprofit groups are invited to “rent a booth” and can keep all proceeds for their charitable organization, school, church or synagogue.
“With an estimated 10,000 visitors, the Larchmont Family Fair is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness and funds for your organization,” Frère said.
The LBA charges a booth fee of $500 to cover the cost of rentals, advertising, promotion, insurance and decorations. LBA members pay $300.
In addition, selling or offer-
ing any sort of food or drinks, even bottled water, requires a health department permit.
“Most of those taking booths don’t offer food or drinks, since there is lots of food at the fair, but some have special things that they have always done, like snow cones or cotton candy,” Frère said.
She recommends that booth holders offer fun takeaways to attract passersby.
In the past, one school made animal balloons, another—a spa—soothed fairgoers’ muscles with mini massages.
Proceeds from the fair help pay for the costs of security and beautification of the Boulevard.
The deadline to apply for nonprofit booths that require a health permit is Mon., Sept. 15. The deadline for all other booths is Wed., Oct. 15. To inquire about school or non-
make friends
profit booths, email Frère at info@landisstationery.com.
To inquire about having a food booth, reach out to Farwell at larchmontboulevardfamilyfair@gmail.com.
The Fair has been a staple of the area since it began as a small-town event in the mid 60s.
Summer has come and gone, and Immaculate Heart Pandas are back on campus, ready to take on new challenges. Events like our Back-to-School barbecue, presented by the Athletics Department, celebrated the start of the school year with delicious food and fun games. Students have begun preparing for our annual Welcome Day tradition and will wear themed costumes Fri., Sept. 5 as they welcome new students and faculty through songs, dances and skits. Yet another event to look forward to this month is Immaculate Heart’s Open House on Sat., Sept. 28, when prospective students can learn more about our school. Overall, it’s a joy to be back on campus with the rest of the Immaculate Heart school community!
LARCHMONT CHARTER
LAFAYETTE PARK
Ella Wolovitch
10th Grade
As the school bell rang for the beginning of the first day of school, the air buzzed with excitement and nerves. Students walked around the campus, reuniting with old friends and meeting new people as well. Seniors began their bittersweet “last first day” and freshmen walked into a whole new school experience. Anticipation for the year grew as teachers went through their first day activities, laying out expectations for the school year. Looking forward to a fun year full of learning at LFP!
GIANT BEAR AND DINO
at last year’s Larchmont Family Fair.
When will an American man reclaim Grand Slam glory?
Jimmy Connors. Arthur Ashe. John McEnroe. Michael Chang. Jim Courier. Pete Sampras. Andre Agassi. Faucet slows to a drip…Andy Roddick…faucet stops. That’s a heck of a list. Some of those names are all-time greats; some of them dominated the sport on and off the courts. They starred in commercials. They were must watch.
But it’s been 22 years. Twenty-two years since an American man claimed a title in a Grand Slam tennis event. It’s hard to fathom, and it’s by far the longest stretch of time since we started hitting green, fuzzy balls over a net that an American male failed to grab one of the big ones.
Tennis is an utterly international sport, which is part of what makes it great, but the history of the sport can’t be told without the American men who etched their names in infamy. Connors electrified us. Ashe broke barriers. McEnroe questioned if the umps were serious, as well as everything else they did. Chang surprised in Roland Garros. Sampras barely cracked a smile en route to
Letters
(Continued from Page 2)
You and your colleagues must realize that the goal of SB 79’s supporters is to strip local zoning protections and to open up vast areas of low-density neighborhoods to high-profit real estate development.
Our City of Los Angeles already has completed a massive, collaborative planning process, where we now have state-certified Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) goals, so we can build the needed housing, much of
Chasing Sports by Chase Campen
14 major wins. Agassi played with pizzazz; the ultimate pitchman, who married a legend from the ladies’ bracket in Steffi Graf.
Twenty-two years ago, at the ripe age of 21, American Andy Roddick took Queens, New York, by storm, capturing the US Open title and becoming king of the sport. Charismatic and young, surely he’d carry the mantle of the next great American male tennis player and claim several more.
Instead, he’d go on to appear in four more Grand Slam finals, losing all of them to Roger Federer.
There’s no shame in that— Federer is in the conversation of being the game’s greatest player in history, as are two men whose careers coincided with his, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic. Federer and Nadal, the handsome and charismatic Europeans, combined for an absurd 42 major titles between 2003 through 2022. Overlapping in that
it on commercial corridors adjacent to public transit. There is no need to break up single-family blocks to create new housing. On behalf of the thousands of residents in our 1,100 homes, the Windsor Square Association joins so many others in requesting that you and your committee support California families and vote No on SB 79, a bill sponsored by special interests for their sole benefit.
John H. Welborne Vice President for Planning and Land Use Windsor Square Association
window was the robotic and controversial Djokovic (I’m a fan), claiming 24 major wins of his own. So it’s not hard to see who has been winning all those majors over the past two decades. And yet, the Americans couldn’t grab even one?!
For me, the major drought for American men coincides with my watching less of the sport. Not that there isn’t great talent all over the world worth following, but for me tennis is similar to soccer—it spikes my interest when the American men perform well. Those names mentioned in the first paragraph are mostly icons of the sport; by comparison, the last 22 years have been the decades of darkness. Interestingly, and if you’ve made it this far in this article you probably realize in that same 22-year window, American women have grabbed 26 Grand Slam titles! And there’s been plenty happening on that side of the bracket to catch your attention, including the entirety of the Williams sisters’ careers. They combined to win 22 of them (19 for Serena, 3 for
In favor of high-rises I was sad to see that the Larchmont United Neighborhood Association (LUNA) and the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council are opposed to the multistory buildings proposed for the northern half of the Larchmont Boulevard commercial district. Sad and a bit confused as to what harm the buildings would do to the neighborhood. The proposed buildings are six and seven story buildings.
The new buildings will add housing to the neighborhood, bringing many new business owners, employees
Photo by Filip Mroz
Venus) during an incredibly dominant run. And there have been other great American female players during that stretch, including Jennifer Capriati, Lindsay Davenport and Coco Gauff today.
The top American male threats right now are Taylor Fritz, Ben Shelton and Frances Tiafoe, each of whom have knocked on a Major championship door in the past few years. Tiafoe has twice reached the semifinals of the US Open. Shelton has been a semifinalist at the US and Australian opens, and Fritz has pulled off the feat at Wimbledon and the US Open.
Do any of these guys have a shot in Queens this month? Tiafoe seems to thrive there, and Shelton is increasingly a fan favorite with his chiseled arms and charismatic persona. But if you have to hang your hat on an American ending that 22-year drought, go with Fritz. He reached the final four at Wimbledon this year, is the game’s best server right now and rides a wave of momentum to the US Open. The American male drought has to end at some point, right?
The 2025 US Open in Queens, New York, continues through Sun., Sept. 7.
But when will an American male player reclaim tennis glory in a Major? The roadblock today is similar to the past 22 years: there are two extremely talented European players at the top of the mens’ draw right now—Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcatraz. Like the Big Three before them, they look like generational talents.
and families. And, perhaps, dramatically increasing foot traffic to all the shops, restaurants and businesses in the area. Maybe they will add a day to the farmers market. I have four children, three of whom have graduated college and are just getting started in their careers. None of them could afford to live in my neighborhood at this point.
Opponents of the new buildings seem to claim that taller buildings harm the community. If that were the case, the Larchmont Medical Building, being 10 stories tall, should have killed the neigh-
borhood back in 1961 when it was built. It now houses dozens of medical professionals all working and supporting the neighborhood with their services and spending. There are more than 50 businesses on Larchmont Boulevard. Each one of them relies on the vibrancy of the community to survive and thrive. Cutting the stories of the buildings forecloses the possibility of many dozens of families that could live, work and support the neighborhood. How many of the business owners on Larchmont can afford to (Please turn to Page 26)
U.S. MEN’S TENNIS FANS feel the absence of a Grand Slam victory.
Trees
(Continued from Page 1)
And, they have.
When complete, the Wilshire Boulevard and surrounding area will be an assorted mix of 200 palms and shade trees that will line the medians and sidewalks of Miracle Mile in time for Metro’s D Line Extension project.
This portion of the D Line subway, from Wilshire/Western to Wilshire/La Cienega, is slated to open later this year.
“It’s going to look really beautiful when all of the street improvements and landscaping are finished,” said Metro spokesman Dave Sotero.
A decade ago, when 83 palm trees were removed from the Mile, the median strips and sidewalks were torn up as part of subway construction.
Now crews are at work sprucing up the area to its former glory under the guidance of Metro contractor Skanska Traylor-Shea.
The additional trees are thanks to a 2022 sustainable tree replacement policy, Sotero said.
The chosen trees include London planes, silk flosses and fir pines, as well as the tall palms.
The return of the trees is a welcome sight after decades of planning and construction. While the newly planted trees are the fulfillment of a promise, they are not without controversy.
The tall, stately palms have become iconic to the city, but they are not from here. They were originally brought by
missionaries for religious reasons and more were planted by the thousands in the early 1900s (“Prepare to ay a frond farewell to Los Angeles’ palm trees,” L.A. Times, Pat Morrison, Aug. 10, 2025).
Critics argue the palms do not address climate change or bring much-needed shade to a warmer environment.
The London planes are also problematic, and none of the trees are native, according to Ann Rubin, of Carthay Circle, who calls the new landscape plan “a missed opportunity.”
In a letter to the Metro board, she wrote:
“For years, our local group, comprised of engaged neighbors with professional expertise in plants and horticulture, landscape design and climate change, along with members of the city’s Community Forestry Advisory Committee, have been advocating for a coordinated street tree plan along Wilshire Blvd. and tributaries…
“Better tree choices would be California natives and species that improve our ecology, are in sync with our wet and dry seasons and tell a distinct story connected to this location. Inspiration could have come from the many trees in the La Brea Tar Pits location. Even Metro’s own policies include the preference for native trees and working together with the community!
“Instead, we got London planes…We already have several near the Peterson Museum and Academy Museum—and these trees look
Bogie’s
sickly and scrawny. They are deciduous, so we miss the shade for many months, but even when leafed out, they look unhealthy.”
Still hopeful
After years of construction, she adds, “We’ve been holding out with hope, not expecting the status quo and what feels like disregard, frankly, for what happens to also be our neighborhood streets where we live…
“We still have the whole of the First/Last Mile pathway network [where pedestrians travel to and from stations] in need of the right shade trees that will define this area—a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and possibly for the next 100 years. We ask to meet and work together with Metro, the Urban Forestry Division and our council office to go in a new direction, even at this eleventh hour.”
Metro claims 60% of the new plantings are shade trees and address issues of heat islands and other concerns, Sotero said.
They were chosen as part of a landscape plan during the Environmental Impact Review period, during which time public comment was heard. The plan was approved by the city in 2017 and is within the city’s regional acceptable tree palette, Sotero said.
Metro has agreed to care for the trees for three years, after which time the city will take over responsibility for those on city property.
Art Deco signs
Up next, Art Deco decora-
tive signs will be placed at each end of the Miracle Mile district. These replace earlier signs which were removed years ago. Those had been in the median strips and were hit by cars.
The new signs will be placed on the sidewalk in between the three subway entrances at La Brea and Fairfax avenues and La Cienega Boulevard.
The subway extension project will extend the D Line from Wilshire/Western to the Westwood VA hospital station. It will include seven new stations.
The second segment, extending to Wilshire/Constellation, which includes
the Wilshire Rodeo subway station, is scheduled to open in 2026. Section three, including the Westwood/UCLA Station and Westwood/VA Hospital Station, is scheduled to open in 2027, ahead of the Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028.
When complete, the D Line will provide a connection between downtown L.A. and the Westside.
The cost to build all three sections is in the neighborhood of $9.5 billion, paid for by county sales tax (approved by Measures R and M) and matching federal funds, Sotero said.
Larchmont Village Neighborhood Association
“The objective and purpose of the LVNA has, since 1987, been the preservation and enhancement of our neighborhood.”
As you read this back to school has happened, the late summer Los Angeles heat is broiling and there have been major developments that can help or hurt our neighborhood.
First the good news – there has been further progress on single stairwell zoning. The full Los Angeles City Council has directed city staff to draft an ordinance to legalize 4-6 story single stair buildings (which are currently not allowed in L.A.). Worldwide this approach has made Larchmont Village type housing and live/work buildings viable while maintaining high fire safety standards. If we can combine this approach with diagonal median parking on North Larchmont, we will go a long way towards securing a bright future for our neighborhood.
The LVNA supports the Livable Communities attempt to reform outdated multifamily zoning regulations which stand in the way of both effective housing and neighborhood friendly streetscapes. For over 15 years we have fought to make North Larchmont Boulevard a live/work, walkable zone consistent with the demonstrable success which is lower Larchmont. If we can enhance the viability of smaller, appropriate buildings, encourage better urban design (which echoes the existing Larchmont Village area) AND calm traffic we must do everything we can to make that happen.
Now, the not great news… SB 79 has moved forward.
SB 79 would allow 5- to 7-story buildings on any lot within a half mile of a bus stop along a route that has a dedicated bus lane at any point. This potentially would put up to 95% of Larchmont, and most, if not all, of Windsor Square and Hancock Park at risk - destroying the very qualities which make these the neighborhoods we love. There are no exclusions for single-family, multi-family, or historic neighborhoods, and no requirements for infrastructure improvements or supportive transit planning. The State of California has embarked on a disastrous path of usurping local control which threatens to upend development of the very housing they claim to want.
Please reach out to your state assembly member, State Senator and Governor Newsom to voice your opposition to this bill!
Check out unitedneighbors.net for latest updates.
Need to figure out who represents you? There’s a great tool at https://www.laforward.org/who-represents-me.
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!!
Are you a senior, or do you have physical challenges getting around LA?
Please join us for a joint program with the LA Department of Transportation called “Seniors On the Move.”
We will be presenting a 45-minute Zoom program on Saturday, September 27 at 10 AM. Come learn about the terrific initiatives currently available!
RSVP to lvna90004@gmail.com . We will email you a Zoom link for confirmation.
In Larchmont Village there are always new ideas and new opportunities to further enhance our quality of life. If you have an idea or project on which you’re looking for support, we’ll get you with a member who’s got exactly the right combination of interest and knowledge to help you get it off the ground. Reach out at www.lvna.info
You can write to the LVNA at: Larchmont Village Neighborhood Association 325 North Larchmont #294 Los Angeles, CA 90004
You can email the general LVNA box at lvna90004@gmail.com or President Charles D’Atri at lvgwnc@gmail.com
Serving the Larchmont community between Beverly and Melrose, Arden to Wilton Place lvna.info • lvna90004@gmail.com
LONDON PLANE trees were planted on Orange Drive, left, as well as on Sycamore Avenue, right, near Wilshire Boulevard in Miracle Mile.
Preparing
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is a disaster.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) sponsors citizen awareness in September and reminds us of the three C’s to consider: first “check” by assessing the disaster situation to make sure you and the victim are safe (from moving cars, fallen power lines, etc.). Next, “call” emergency assistance at 911. And finally “care” by providing CPR if necessary. In addition, have a location all family members know to meet at and an out-of-state contact to help coordinate communication.
The problem is, in a large disaster, first responders are often overwhelmed, and we as individuals and neighbors need to know what do when calling 911 is useless.
Kari Garcia of the Miracle Mile Residential Association rallied her community by getting neighbors to get Com-
EXPERT SURVIVALIST
munity Emergency Response Training and take Ready Your LA courses, both provided free through the Los Angeles Fire Department and open to all. Other than getting to know your neighbors and understanding their individual skills which may be useful for an emergency, one learns first aid skills, the location of utility shutoffs and which neighbors might need extra help.
Garcia also suggests downloading the My Shake app which will give a five-second warning for earthquakes that are a magnitude of 4.5 or higher, and to watch a video on how to shut off the gas valve for your home or building (YouTube is a good place to start).
More disasters are caused by fires due to broken gas lines then almost anything else after a major earthquake.
City and community efforts matter, but so do the measures you can take in your own home. Most of us were here for the January 2025 wildfires, and some of us for the 1994 Northridge earthquake.
Make “go bags,” or “survival stashes” for daily needs.
FEMA suggests a minimum of these items: bedside—flashlight, shoes and eye glasses. In the car: walking shoes, water and food (like protein bars), jacket, sun hat, flashlight, cell phone charger and first aid kit (imagine if the 1994 quake had hit midday).
For the home, add medications, cash, pet food, radio, important documents, a tool to turn off gas valve and a fire extinguisher. Check ready.la-
SEPTEMBER IS THE MONTH TO PREPARE for basic needs in case of
county.gov for more.
Geoff Randolph who grew up in South Pasadena, was an engineer and sales executive in Silicon Valley and a pioneer in remote work in 1999 (powering his HughesNet satellite modem and laptop with a car battery). He chose to spend many years in a way most survivalists fantasize about. “I have a different perspective, having lived in the wilderness for a while. I lived with my wife and kids in Trinity County in Northern California on 110 acres surrounded by national forest on all sides. There were about 200 people in a 15-mile radius, and we were the last house on a dirt road. We were one of the few who had electricity, which regularly went out—everyone else was off the grid. We lived off a gravity-fed spring and only kept the electricity for refrigeration and lighting. All heat was wood heat. I personally split by hand five or six cords of firewood every year for the five stoves we had,”
gas (stove/oven). Randolph said, “All of a sudden you realize a propane cooker might be a good idea.”
said Randolph.
Currently, living in southern Oregon, Randolph is the go-to expert for many preppers around the country.
Randolph said, “There are practical things all people can do to prepare for any sort of disaster. Have a weekend where you turn off your electricity, and it’ll show you right off the bat everything you rely on is so dependent on that. This is one simple thing. If electricity went out for a week, what would you do? In a practical way, you can plan this ahead of time so that you don’t waste the food in your refrigerator. The first thing you’ll learn is how important light is. You need a flashlight and possibly a back-up source of power. Also very useful is a lead light to wear on the head like a headband. Electric lanterns are helpful.”
The best way to have a back-up source of power, according to Randolph, is a fold out solar cell with lithium ion batteries. “With something like that, at least one can run a fluorescent light bulb, cell phone, computer, even a coffee grinder,” said Randolph. Called a power pack or a portable power station, the module is the size of a shoebox. And on that weekend, don’t use the
Randolph also said, “At one point you have to consider if it’s a longer term issue, or a shorter term issue. In both cases having water and a way to purify it is a priority.” He said, “The old-timers would create basic filters out of charcoal and ash, but there’s so many things now that you can buy to substitute. Use stored water, or you will need to keep with you an emergency filter, which there are all sorts of out there.”
Longer term—how to protect what you have and survive working with other people is a hard, but an important factor to consider. Randolph said, “People can see light from far away and they’re going to come to it if they don’t have power. Maybe you want to control how many people see it by having blackout windows. In the long-term, it’s important to have things you can barter like small bottles of alcohol. And don’t forget duct tape. Everyone needs duct tape!” And just to really close this deep dive out…”If you live in L.A. you need iodine pills (such as potassium iodide and KI tablets) because L.A., is close enough to the San Onofre Nuclear Power Plant and therefore prone for disaster,” said Randolph. You can ask your doctor how to take iodine pills safely to protect yourself. “My final words are, be right with God! And don’t be in a big city! Get out,” Randolph said with a chuckle. For those of us who are here, we’ll help each other. And the best part about prepping? Once you do it, you can forget about it and sleep more soundly!
Find more information at www.ready.gov.
GEOFF RANDOLPH with his wife, Robyn, advises practicing spending a weekend without electricity.
disaster.
A history of immigration in Los Angeles from early colonists
By A.R. Johnstone
Los Angeles is one of the most diverse cities in the world—a cultural mosaic shaped over centuries by immigrants from around the globe. From Spanish colonists in the 18th century to contemporary migrants from Central America, the city’s story is inseparable from immigration, both legal and undocumented. By the 1920s, Los Angeles had grown into a multicultural center. Despite periods of exclusion and internment (including the forced removal of Japanese Americans during WWII) immigrant communities continued to thrive and reshape the urban landscape.
“Today, Los Angeles County is home to nearly 880,000 undocumented immigrants, according to the Public Policy Institute of California.”
Illegal immigration has played a prominent role in Los Angeles since the 1960s. In 1965, amendments were made to the Immigration and
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live in the neighborhood?
The issue of the stories is also confusing as there does not seem to be any objective reason for the current limit beyond tradition. And, clearly, the tradition includes huge buildings like the Larchmont Medical Building. Larchmont residents should welcome the arrival of new residents. New residents mean a bigger and better farmers market, more restaurants, more services and opportunities for everyone to live and work. We all know the city is facing a crisis in sup-
Nationality Act. The changes eliminated the quota system (quotas only allowed a certain number of immigrants from countries other than the western hemisphere) many felt quotas were discriminatory, however, prior to these changes, countries in the western hemisphere did not have any quotas. The consequence was countries that were previously not limited now had a numerical value put on how many immigrants
ply of housing, affordable or otherwise. Let’s resolve to be part of the solution to this urgent problem. Please consider making the neighborhood more inclusive rather than exclusive. One Rodeo Drive is enough for any city.
James Standish Windsor Square
Editor’s note: The Larchmont Medical Building has a total of 84 parking spaces according to LoopNet. The new projects referred to in the letter are fast-tracked under the mayor’s emergency housing program, which does not require buildings to have parking.
could receive visas. With rising demand for low-wage labor, many migrants entered the U.S. without authorization or overstayed their visas. Today, Los Angeles County is home to nearly 880,000 undocumented immigrants, according to the Public Policy Institute of California.
Undocumented immigrants contribute significantly to the local economy, filling essential roles in construction, hospitality, food service and care-giving. However, their presence also presents challenges for public services, infrastructure and policy.
One of the primary concerns often cited is the strain on public resources. Although undocumented immigrants pay taxes—sales, property (indirectly through rent) and often payroll taxes under false or borrowed Social Security numbers—they are ineligible
for most federal benefits. Still, local governments often provide emergency health care, schooling and other services without full reimbursement, which can place pressure on budgets.
Public education is another area where the impact is debated. The U.S. Supreme Court’s Plyler v. Doe decision (1982) ensures free public education for all children regardless of status. In some school districts with high concentrations of undocumented families, this has led to overcrowding and challenges in delivering services such as bilingual instruction and counseling.
Opponents of sanctuary policies also argue that shielding undocumented immigrants from federal immigration enforcement can undermine public safety. While studies by the American Immigration Council and Cato Institute suggest undocumented immigrants commit crimes at lower rates than citizens, high-profile cases involving violent offenders have sparked public concern and political controversy.
Additionally, undocumented labor may depress wages in low-skill sectors, affecting U.S. citizens and legal residents competing for the same jobs—particularly in industries like agriculture and construction.
Despite these challenges, Los Angeles has maintained policies supporting immi-
grant integration. The city reaffirmed its status as a sanctuary city in 2017, resisting efforts by federal agencies to compel local law enforcement cooperation with ICE.
Community groups like the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights have worked to connect undocumented immigrants with legal aid, education and labor protections. Faith-based organizations and local nonprofits also fill gaps left by federal restrictions.
Immigration, in all its complexity, remains a defining force in Los Angeles. The city’s cultural vibrancy, labor force and population growth have long depended on immigrant contributions. At the same time, its leaders continue to grapple with the policy, economic and ethical questions that come with large-scale undocumented migration.
CALIFORNIA CONTINUES to support immigration, and Los Angeles remains a sanctuary city.
Photo by Nicole Cavelli
EARLY IMMIGRANTS to the United States.
Photo: Art Institute of Chicago
Mansion tax
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million will go toward helping people stay in their homes— things like rent support for tenants at risk of eviction and free legal help if they’re facing it. The lion’s share, roughly $288 million, will be used to build or preserve affordable housing.
At a time when other funding sources are shrinking, this cash is keeping a lot of important programs alive. Supporters say the measure is doing exactly what voters wanted: providing stable, ongoing funding to tackle L.A.’s housing crisis.
But here’s the catch
The name “mansion tax” makes it sound like it only applies to palatial estates in the Hollywood Hills. In reality, it hits a lot more than that. It applies to small apartment buildings, commercial properties and even older medical or office buildings in the $5 million–plus range.
And that’s where the trouble starts.
CD13
Studies from UCLA and RAND show that since ULA took effect, the number of sales above the $5 million threshold has dropped by about half. Commercial and multifamily sales—the kinds that often lead to new housing or revitalized spaces—are down by 30 to 50%.
When high-value properties stop changing hands, two big things happen: first, fewer new homes get built. Developers often buy older buildings, renovate or replace them, and then sell. If they get taxed heavily at both the buying and selling stage, many simply skip the project. That means fewer new units, including affordable ones.
Second,property tax revenue stalls. In California, property taxes mostly go up when a property sells. High-value sales make up only 4% of transactions but account for over 40% of new tax revenue. Without those sales, schools, public safety and city services feel the pinch.
Why this matters in
Hancock Park
Even if you’re not planning to sell a $6 million home anytime soon, the ripple effects can hit close to home. Hancock Park and its surroundings have plenty of properties that fall above that threshold—from historic mansions to small apartment buildings tucked along side streets.
When those properties don’t sell, the market tightens. Fewer listings means fewer chances for new buyers to get in, and fewer redevelopment projects result in fewer rental options. It’s one reason home prices across the board can creep up—even for homes well below $5 million.
A cliff, not a slope
One of the quirks of ULA is how it’s structured. The moment a sale price crosses $5 million—even by a dollar— the full tax kicks in on the entire amount. That’s why you’ll see some listings carefully priced just under the line. It’s also why owners who might otherwise sell sometimes decide to hold on, rent
allocates $500,000 more
By Nona Sue Friedman Councilmember Hugo Soto
Martínez of Council
District
13 (CD13) recently received approval to allocate $500,000 from his discretionary fund for workers’ overtime compensation at the Bureau of Street Lighting (BSL).The funds are part of an effort to repair streetlight outages within his district. BSL is understaffed and has many repair requests, which is led to residents having to wait up
to nine months for streetlight repairs.
According to Soto Martínez, “We know that working streetlights are one of the most effective ways that we can make our streets safer for everyone …. That’s why we are investing …. so we can make critical repairs to streetlights all over the district.”
Since taking office in December 2022, his office has allotted a total of $900,000 to speed up BSL’s ability to make
quire state action, but they could keep the money flowing while reducing the drag on property turnover and housing production.
Where we go from here
This area has seen plenty of changes over the decades, and ULA is just another chapter in the city’s ongoing push and pull between funding public needs and keeping the real estate market healthy.
out or just wait.
Possible fixes
Policy experts have tossed around a few ways to keep the funding but cut down the side effects. One is to make it a true mansion tax by applying it only to single-family homes above the threshold.
Another is to use marginal rates so only the amount above $5 million is taxed, rather than the entire sale price.
And lastly, adjust the tax to target windfall profits instead of taxing sales where the owner might actually be taking a loss.
These changes would re-
Right now, ULA is delivering big dollars for affordable housing and homelessness prevention. But it’s also slowing down the kind of sales that help build new housing, boost tax revenue and keep neighborhoods vibrant.
The challenge ahead is finding the sweet spot—one where we still fund the programs we desperately need, without choking off the property turnover that fuels the city’s growth. If Los Angeles can get that balance right, neighborhoods like Hancock Park can keep their historic charm while still playing a role in solving the city’s housing crisis.
overtime to repair streetlights
repairs. Lighting outages make for one of the top three concerns CD13 hears about from residents.
The additional funding is good news for Windsor Square and numerous other neighborhoods who are still plagued with dark streets primarily from copper wire theft. However, it remains to be seen if the work will actually be done. Simply allocating the money doesn’t mean we have the workers to complete it.
MEASURE ULA, THE “MANSION TAX” needs to find a balance so the city can continue to prosper in all directions.
BASE OF A STREETLIGHT that has been tampered with in Windsor Square.
INTACT JUNCTION box at Van Ness Avenue and First Street, yet many of the lights on Van Ness aren’t working.
Around the Town
GAME ON! AT PARAMOUNT TOGETHER, LET’S BEAT CANCER TERI SHOUSTAL, LEFT, AND SONDI TOLL SEPENUK WITH THE SUPER MARIO BROTHERS ON THE BACK LOT. Page 4
HANCOCK PARK • WINDSOR SQUARE • FREMONT PLACE • GREATER WILSHIRE • MIRACLE MILE • PARK LA BREA • LARCHMONT
Preservation is on the move in 2025; Altadena, here we come!
In the May 2022 edition of this paper, I wrote a column about the many houses of Windsor Square (mine included) which had been moved to the neighborhood from elsewhere. Moving houses and buildings has been part of L.A.’s DNA throughout its history, with storied firms such as the Kress House Moving Company performing seemingly miraculous feats of engineering. While rare today, this time-honored method of thrift and preservation has now been resurrected to assist in the rebuilding of Altadena by replacing lost historic homes with other historic homes moved to the site.
The Historic House Relocation Project is a charitable initiative launched by the adaptive reuse architectural firm Omgivning (Swedish for “ambience”). The firm’s
On Preservation by Brian Curran
creative director, Morgan Sykes Jaybush, was inspired earlier this year when looking through demo notices of old buildings. The firm now connects interested homebuyers with properties set to be demolished and assists with permits, relocation and contracting.
The first two houses chosen for the project were a 1911 Craftsman on Taft Avenue in Hollywood and the second house a 1910 Craftsman on Saint George Street in Los Feliz—the latter of which coincidentally had been moved once before! The house from Los Feliz began its journey early last month to become the new old home of Jacques Laramee and Gwen Sukeena of Altadena. To prepare for the move, the second story was dismantled and stored on the ground floor. That floor was then divided into sections and placed onto flatbed trucks. The sections began to arrive in Altadena on Aug. 5.
Houses such as the one on Taft can often be purchased for as low as $1, with relocation, a new foundation, reassembly and connection
to plumbing, gas and electric coming in at over $500,000, depending on size. Further upgrades and renovation add to the cost. It is estimated, however, that relocating and restoring a house costs about a third of the average cost of building a new home. An added bonus is that the process typically takes nine to 12 months as opposed to a three-year timeline for a new build. It is hoped that this is an attractive option for many who lost a home in the Eaton Fire and are looking to return. Omgivning has already located around 80 candidate properties for relocation and many willing buyers.
Landmark winners
Windsor Square Hancock Park Historical Society named its 2025 Landmark Award winners.
The Windsor Square Hancock Park Historical Society held its annual meeting Aug. 3 at the historic Gilmore Adobe. As chair of the Landmarks Committee, I was given the honor of handing out this year’s awards to three very special properties.
616 S. Windsor Blvd. was originally part of a larger estate that included the neighboring property to the north, at 606 S. Windsor Blvd.
by Raymond
Windsor was built as a three-car garage and servant’s quarters resembling a Tudor stable, complete with half-timbering. The property split in 1940, and the former garage came into its own, becoming the main residence. Over the years, it transformed from a simple service structure to a French country manor with lush landscaped gardens. The award was accepted by longtime owners Jasmine Bowers and G. Bernard Brown. 601 S. Lorraine Blvd. is a newly restored home designed by famed Los Angeles architect Paul Williams. The house was commissioned by rancher and investor William Henry Collins in 1932.
Williams designed for him a Hollywood Regency house with a French Normandy twist, which resulted in one of Williams’ favorite works, according to his daughter Karen Hudson. The award was accepted by Akilah Releford Gould, the daughter of the current owners, Deb and Bill Releford.
Clinton Manor Apartments 5184 Clinton St., a well-preserved Colonial Revival courtyard apartment complex, received the final award. Built by the Aetna Construction Company in 1940, it was designed by engineer Joseph J. Rees. Its most notable residents were Ruth and Elliot Handler, who after
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Designed
Keiffer, 616 S.
AMAZING wallpaper was seen at the home at 616 S. Windsor Blvd.
LANDMARK WINNER 601 S. Lorraine Blvd.
Historical Society’s 49th annual meeting held at Gilmore Adobe
By Nona Sue Friedman
The historic Gilmore Adobe, secretly nestled between the Grove and the Original Farmers Market, is where the Windsor Square Hancock Park Historical Society (WSHPHS) hosted its Summer Fiesta and 49th annual meeting. More than 100 people from across the city attended the event on Aug. 3 in the garden of this 1852 structure.
Mariachi music greeted attendees, and tables were colorfully decorated in the cool and quiet yard of the adobe. “We’ve never had permission to enter the gates of this adobe and now we’re here,” commented members Ryan and Elsi Kaiser, formerly of North Gower Street and now living in Culver City. Volunteers wandered the grounds selling raffle tickets like strolling minstrels.
The event was more of a festive party than a meeting. Tacos and margaritas abounded as Brian Curran, of Windsor Square, a Chronicle columnist and one of the vice presidents of WSHPHS, announced three recipients of the organization’s Landmark Award. This award recognizes sites for their historical
ONE OF THE FOUNDERS of WSHPHS and co-founder of the Larchmont Chronicle Jane Gilman (right) with WSHPHS Treasurer Barbara Coad of Ridgewood-Wilton.
or cultural significance. Two homes—one located at 601 Lorraine Blvd. and the other at 616 S. Windsor Blvd.— were honored, as were the Clinton Manor Courtyard apartments at 5134 Clinton St. WSHPHS proposes to collect and preserve the rich history of the area. They organize numerous events throughout the year, including their annual Garden Tour. Currently they have 500 individual members and 300 family members, and more
are always welcome.
Cilgia Halprin, of South June Street, has been a WSHPHS member for over 40 years. When she first moved into her home, she got a flyer in her mailbox that said “If you love history, come on over [to this meeting].” She went to her first WSHPHS gathering and has been involved ever since.
To become a member, visit windsorsquarehancockpark. org. The cost is $65 annually for a couple or family.
MARIACHI BAND added a festive flair to the evening.
MEMBERS ENJOY THE evening, including (front row, from left) Trenee Sims, Elizabeth Yeo, Landmark Award recipients Andrew Gould and Akilah Releford Gould, and Leigh Anna Fry; (back row, from left) Joyce Kleifeld, David Burns, Louise Arklin and Marlene Dutton.
It’s Game On! for the Concern Foundation at Paramount lot
Let the games begin! More than 4,000 supporters packed the Paramount Studios Hollywood back lot July 19 to raise funds and awareness for the Concern Foundation for Cancer Research. The lively game-themed night had food, music and fun for children and adults alike.
The 50th anniversary block party, Game On! Together Let’s Beat Cancer, included over 90 well-known restaurants, wineries, breweries, dessert makers and more. Top-of-the-line eateries included Nobu Malibu, Lawry’s The Prime Rib, Pink’s Hot Dogs, A.O.C., Bertha Mae’s Brownie Co., Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams and Caffe Luxxe.
It was almost a shame that there were so many choices because I couldn’t possibly try them all, much to my great and forever disappointment!
Standout beverage options included Gin & Juice by Dre and Snoop, Duvel, Buzzbar, Milagro Tequila, Empress 1908 Gin and Common Space Brewery. (No, I didn’t get to try all of those, either, in case you’re wondering.)
The evening paid tribute to community philanthropists Lisi and Steve Teller, as well as Special Lifetime Achievement Honoree Alexandra M. Levine, a professor of hematology and chief medical officer emerita at City of Hope, who Steve Teller recognized as someone who “has helped make medicine not only a science, but an art.”
The block party experience gave guests the opportunity to play on a Twister board or choose other interactive games such as Jenga and Chutes & Ladders. Others chose to get some retro bowling under their belts, participate in a game show and dance the night away to the tunes of the Tom Nolan
Band, D’ City Sound & Events and the Jason Goldstein Sextet on separate stages throughout the back lot.
But that’s not all! As if the games and food and drink weren’t enough, the event also offered Beauty Bus Foundation glam makeovers, spa services by Fairmont Spa Century Plaza and a digital photo studio by Brian Kramer Photography. As the night and music progressed, guests made their way to an outdoor casino, where dozens of gaming tables, along with
beautiful bow-tied dealers, stood in for Las Vegas itself.
Supporters “gambled” the night away with free starter chips, collecting raffle tickets in hopes of winning big prizes at night’s end.
The fun and merriment paid off when the foundation revealed that the evening raised over $2.5 million during a time when cancer research funds are under assault and needed now more than ever.
And now you’re in the Larchmont know!
LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT
Honoree Alexandra M. Levine; Derek Alpert, president of the Concern Foundation; and Jackie Gottlieb, Concern Foundation executive board chair.
Mural celebrates Project Angel Food
By Julia Guillen
Renowned Mexican-American muralist Robert Vargas painted a mural last month in honor of Project Angel Food on the exterior of the organization’s three-story Vine Street headquarters.
The nonprofit provides free meals for people impacted by serious illness. It recently began a $51.5 million project to double its facility size and triple its meal production capacity. Vargas’ mural is the commemoration of this expansion.
The mural was scheduled to be unveiled August 27.
“Robert’s art rises from the heart of Los Angeles and speaks directly to the soul of our mission,” said Project Angel Food CEO Richard Ayoub.
The central figure of a woman in the mural holds a basket of fruit and vegetables in tribute to the service that Project Angel Food provides.
“She looks like someone from the community. Someone that could just be walking right off the street,” Vargas said. “She holds a basket of everything that nourishes the body…which is everything that Project
Angel Food does.”
He worked alongside friend and Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath. “[Vargas] embodies the community in all of his art,” Horvath said.
Other Vargas works include his mural in Dodger Stadium, completed in July and entitled “Heritage and Heroism”. It commemorates Mexican baseball pitcher Fernando Valenzuela. Nicknamed “El Toro” for his powerful pitch and strong spirit, Valenzuela was the first rookie to start Opening Day for the Dodgers in 1981. He was an instant media icon who later passed away due to septic shock in 2024.
Also in commemoration of Valenzuela is the ten-minute play “Fernandomania,” which will be performed at the Gloria Molina Auditorium at CASA 0101 Theater, 2102 E. First St. The play will be shown on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and on Sundays at 3 p.m. for four weeks, ending Sun., Sept. 21.
To get involved with Project Angel Food, visit angelfood.org/donations.
Julia Guillen is a rising senior at Marlborough School.
Carnival-style barbecue is a summer treat
By Helene Seifer
The Ebell of Los Angeles’ barbecue, a popular annual tradition, adopted a carnival theme this year. Held in the Ebell garden Aug. 8, cotton candy-topped margaritas, corn dogs and giant turkey legs joined the more traditional barbecue fare of succulent ribs, barbecued chicken, brisket sliders and grilled corn. The feast was served buffet-style in the art salon, one of the first art galleries to open in Los Angeles. Dessert in the garden included candy and caramel apples, ice cream, funnel cakes and soft pretzels. Colorful circus balls decorated the tables while string lights
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PAINTING THE MURAL are Robert Vargas and Los Angeles County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath.
EBELL BARBECUE in the garden. Courtesy of the Ebell
LINE DANCING at the Ebell barbecue. Courtesy of the Ebell
REVELERS (from left) Gary Grossman, former Ebell president Laurie Schechter, Jim Harris, Aleka Corwin and Bill Ratner.
Vaughan celebrates at Serrano House for homeless women
By Suzan Filipek
Activist Sister Judy Vaughan celebrated her 80th birthday Aug. 9 with about 150 friends and neighbors at Serrano House—a healing-focused community for homeless women and children and the people who serve them.
“It’s exciting, but also a little premature,” said spokesperson Pam Hope.
It’s a bit early to celebrate Serrano House, because the two-story, $2.7 million white house with blue shutters is in a 90-day escrow. A major fundraising campaign is underway to finalize the purchase.
The 4,100-square foot home on Serrano Avenue is in a 90-day escrow. Vaughan is optimistic the money will be raised in time to close the
deal.
Luck has been on the nun’s side before. She founded Alexandria House, a transitional home for women and their children and has managed it for close to 30 years largely on prayers and private donations. A few years ago, she raised enough money to open permanent supportive housing nearby in what’s known as the Kenmore Building.
Vaughan’s third project, Serrano Home, will serve women and children experiencing homelessness and the frontline workers who support them. The house has eight bedrooms and seven bathrooms and is on a quiet, tree-lined street within walking distance of markets, schools and public transit. It
is close to community partners including Southern Calif. Counseling Center and Housing Works.
Parts of the house were designed by UC Berkeley Ph.D.’s in architecture.
For more information on volunteer opportunities and how to help financially, call Sr. Judy Vaughan at 213-4457168.
See historic homes in Brookside, Windsor Square on tour Sept. 27
The Windsor Square Hancock Park annual home tour is on Sat., Sept. 27 from noon to 4 p.m.
The docent-led tour will feature homes on Rossmore Avenue in Hancock Park, Tremaine Avenue in Brookside and Lorraine Boulevard in Windsor Square.
Ticket purchase and will call will be at 355 S. Windsor Blvd. or online at windsorsquarehancockpark.com.
Food, refreshments and a raffle are included in the ticket price. Tickets are $65 for members and $85 for nonmembers.
Visit windsorsquarehancockpark.com.
Barbecue
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sparkled above.
Janna Harris, secretary of the Ebell board of directors, welcomed the 150 Ebell members and friends who attended the festivities. In addition to lively conversations and delectable food and drink, many participated in line dancing led by Francisco Martinez, who also will be conducting line dancing and salsa classes at the Ebell this fall.
BIRTHDAY PARTY was held at Serrano House.
ALEXANDRIA HOUSE founder Sister Judy Vaughan turned 80.
Crime family, neo-Western comedy, ‘new Mr. Rogers’ on screen
Godfather of Harlem: Taking on the Genovese crime family in New York City in the ‘60’s? Sounds like a dangerous proposition, and for Forest Whitaker as the lead, it provides a fraught backdrop to showcase his exploits. You can binge all four seasons on MGM+ and be entertained with the various exploits.
Malcolm X (played by Nigél Thatch and replaced by Jason Alan Carvell) getting involved feels very real, although the show is fictionalized. Godfather of Harlem often gets overlooked, but deserves a binge watch to get invested in the characters and what they have to do to rise to the top.
Eddington: Joaquin Phoenix stars in this neo-Western comedy that pokes fun at the COVID-19 pandemic. You’ll find yourself laughing at some things that were very serious not too long ago.
What
We’re Watching
by A.R. Johnstone
Written and directed by Ari Aster of “Midsommar” fame, he has assembled here a stellar cast. Emma Stone has a smaller role but it is memorable. Pedro Pascal is perfect for his role as the mayor. Luke Grimes, from “Yellowstone,” has a smaller role but plays it big. There are twists and turns that will have you gasp. You won’t know who to root for, and you will definitely talk about this film when it’s over. If you can catch it in theaters, do so. It will be coming to HBO Max, or you can rent it on YouTube.
Songs for Littles: YouTuber Rachel Griffin Accurso, better known as Ms. Rachel to children worldwide, has been crowned the “Mister Rogers
for the new generation” by The Washington Post. Her programming is nurturing and educational, and she approaches social issues with an open heart, always thinking of the children first. This one is for our younger school-age children.
Penguin Lessons: Based on a 2016 memoir, this comedy/ drama tells of a disgruntled English professor who moves to Buenos Aires to teach at a boys’ school at the dawn of a
military coup in the 1970s. To get away, he travels briefly to Uruguay, where he hopes to get laid, but instead inadvertently rescues a penguin from an oil spill. The pair make their way back to Argentina, where lessons are taught, rules are broken and a few tears are shed along the way. Netflix.
Billy Joel: And So It Goes: This two-part documentary is a revealing look into the music business, from the
1970s to today amid the backdrop of Billy Joel, once child prodigy who could replay a classical concert by ear. But rock ‘n’ roll and pop tunes composed and performed by the “Piano Man” take center stage here. Bruce Springsteen, Sting and Jackson Browne make cameos, and we learn of Joel’s marriages and divorces, plus hear family stories, one of which reaches back to the Holocaust. HBO Max.
What everyone will be talking about
I love when a novel completely blows me away, and Buckeye, by Patrick Ryan, did exactly that.
This book hit my radar months ago, when one of my favorite authors called it “the best book coming in 2025,” Then Barnes & Noble named it “our favorite book of the fall.” There’s a buzz around this book. Most recently, actor Tom Hanks described it as “the novel everyone will be talking about this autumn.” With a release date of Tue., Sept. 2, I have a pretty good guess who might be narrating the audiobook after that kind of praise.
this novel is absolutely for you. The author masterfully weaves together the lives of characters burdened by grief, secrets and the aching silences that shape so much of the human experience.
I’m personally drawn to emotional, sometimes dark and heartbreaking stories, and “Buckeye” delivered on every level. If you loved “Hello Beautiful” by Ann Napolitano,
I can’t recall the last time a novel so powerfully connected two generations of Americans who served in war—one during World War II at Omaha Beach, the other when in Vietnam’s Ia Drang Valley. This is a story about the weight of what goes unsaid and the consequences of everything we leave undone.
The setting: May 1945. As news of the Allied victory in Europe reaches a small town in Ohio, a woman named Margaret Salt walks into a
Katie Urban
hardware store and asks the clerk, Cal Jenkins, for a radio. What happens next will change both of their lives forever. “Buckeye” is a sweeping multigenerational story following the lives of two families from the aftermath of WWII through the Vietnam era, bound together by a complicated betrayal.
Final verdict: I recommend this one to anyone who is a fan of historical fiction and layered family dramas. I have no doubt this book will land on many “must-read” lists for the year.
Now, I’ll be heading straight to the library to place holds on Patrick Ryan’s entire back catalogue.
Silent films to be screened in new Film Festival
By Julia Guillen
Retroformat Silent Films works to promote silent film as a cornerstone of visual art.
To that end, the company will present the first annual Los Angeles Silent Film Festival, taking place Fri., Sept. 12, through Sun., Sept. 14.
The film festival will screen the world premiere of a new restoration of “He Who Gets Slapped” (1924), starring Lon Chaney Sr. and Norma Shearer; “Lovers in Quarantine” (1925), starring Harrison Ford (no relation to the “Indiana Jones” star) and Bebe Daniels; and “Up the Road With Sallie” (1918), staring Constance Talmadge and directed by William Desmond Taylor; among other films.
The film festival will take place at The American Cinematheque, Los Feliz Theatre 3, located at 1822 N. Vermont Ave. Visit www.americancinematheque.com
Larchmont Bookshelf
by
FEATURED are Constance Talmadge and Norman Kerry in “Up the Road with Sally.”
Horror and thrills in the theater, or watch an indie at home
When the credits rolled on Zach Cregger’s latest horror-thriller, Weapons, I was paralyzed by contradiction— simultaneously terrified and giddy. Despite its devastating and traumatic themes, “Weapons” is wildly fun (respectfully). Think I sound sadistic? Go see it for yourself.
The premise is refreshingly simple: one night at 2:17 a.m., 17 children from the same classroom—save one—opened their front doors, ran into the darkness and vanished. What follows is a tragedy that you can’t look away from; a terror both grounded and intimate.
Nalani Ogawa
This may be due to the fact that Cregger imbued his own deeply personal experiences of loss into this work. But surprisingly, you’ll laugh almost as much you’ll twist in your seat. Cregger does have a background in sketch comedy, and the hot gossip is that Jordan Peele, the sketchcomic-turned-horror-icon behind “Get Out,” fired his managers after losing the bidding war on “Weapons.”
Are there flaws to this film?
Sure. If Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions had been at-
tached as producers, would the social commentary likely have been more profound? Definitely. But is it entertaining?
Absolutely. This is a film that will make you smile, giggle, grimace and squirm. And if you’re a parent, rest assured; it’s far more likely to give you nightmares than your kids.
If you’re not a big horror person, or you’d prefer to watch a poignant film at home, let me put my metaphorical hand on your shoulder and guide you to the indie archives.
Indie archives
This month I’ll be high-
Guided tour explores the Ebell’s role in Hollywood
By Helene Seifer
The historic Ebell of Los Angeles has been featured in films and television shows for over 75 years. On Sun., Sept., 14, their doors will open to the public for two guided tours exploring Ebell’s role in Hollywood history. Tours are free, but reservations are required for the 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. tours.
The 75,000-square-foot Los Angeles Historical-Cultural
Monument, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, appears in early Hollywood pictures including the 1938 film “Break of Hearts,” starring Katharine Hepburn and Charles Boyer. In it, the Ebell’s Wilshire Ebell Theatre stood in for a New York concert venue. More recently, the Ebell can be seen in such films as “Oppenheimer,” “Fight Club,” “Forrest Gump,” “The Social
Network,” “The Addams Family” and the television series “Hacks.” Others are: “The Lincoln Lawyer,” “Drunk History” and “The Gilmore Girls.” It starred as itself, playing the location of a Cedars-Sinai Hospital fundraiser in the recent hit “The Studio,” starring Seth Rogan. Fascinating Hollywood history will be recounted as guests are led through the
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lighting Good One, India Donaldson’s thoughtful debut that was released in August 2024 after premiering at Sundance. It follows 17-year-old Sam on a backpacking trip in the Catskills with her father and his ill-prepared best friend after the friend’s son bails due to growing tensions over his parents’ divorce. As the trip progresses, the men lose their patience with one another, forcing Sam to mediate.
In the isolation of the woods, that role doesn’t grant her power but instead edges her toward harm. Trepidation feeds the moss and mountains, and the vast landscape
taunts a freedom that does not yet exist for a young girl on the brink of adulthood.
The performances by James Le Gros, Danny McCarthy and especially Lily Colias are deeply humane and refined. Donaldson’s directing is inspired; she captures the helpless circumstances bright young women face and endure while humanizing the mistakes we all make and the way we betray ourselves, especially as we age. I’d recommend watching this film on a hot, languid day when you’re in the mood for some friendly catharsis. It’s tender, it’s raw and it’s 90 minutes well spent.
ZACH CREGGER’S “WEAPONS” disarms, scares and humors the viewer. Photo credit New Line Cinema
Film Review by
Sefton speaks on her October show, ‘How We Wear Our Art’
By H. Hutcheson
This October Laurie Sefton’s dance company, Laurie Sefton Creates, will debut a new piece called “How We Wear Our Art” at LA Dance Project. A collaborative project, Sefton’s multidisciplinary performance work explores the ultimate power of art within the intersection of body tattooing, live music, fashion, film, visual art, sculpture and dance. “I like to mix up my process when I create. Sometimes I start with the music and set movement to only one instrument I single out. Other times I start with the movement and then work with the composer,” Sefton said. It could be a costume or even an observation about the world that inspires her.
“There is an intersection of ideas here—I’m finding it,” said Sefton.
Sefton said “How We Wear Our Art” was inspired by how we, as people, “walk around the world expressing our own art. For some people it’s fashion, for some people it’s makeup, for some people it’s body art or something they carry with them.”
She is a collaborator at heart and invites other artists to partner on her projects. One is Andy Bright, whom she met while choreographing the animal sections for “Onward,” a stage performance featuring Isabella Rossellini’s “Green Porno” films at New Jersey’s ArtYard. Recently Bright has been at rehearsals for Sefton’s upcoming project with a giant limb sculpture he has created out of paper. Yes, as in human limb. The sculpture will expand as dancers interact with it. Two original films by Mikey Higgins will be projected featuring tattoo artist Reiley Johnson
inking art onto a real limb. “I’ve got great dancers, and my costumer, Sophie Isabella Popham, from Canada, has knit the pieces. They look amazing.” The score, a 40-minute original piece by composer Bryan Curt Kostors, will be performed live.
Sefton, of Brookside, grew up here in Los Angeles. She trained in dance in the San Fernando Valley with Rozanne Zimmerman, going on to study the art form at UCLA.
Sefton has the pulse of the dance world. When asked what she thought about the dance scene in L.A., she replied, “Los Angeles has over 350 working dance companies. There are new companies popping up every day. It’s not just contemporary, not just ballet—we have every culturally specific form of dance in existence. We have folklórico, Korean dance; we have stuff from the Balkans— you name it. We have it all here. We have world-class ballet dancers taking open class and culturally specific performers, teachers and choreographers that are masters, like Barack Marshall.”
Sefton heard about the recent passing of Glorya
MYTHOLOGY OF SELF” with dancers (from left) Emily Krenik, Nicholas Sipes, Alisa Carerras, Mizuki Sako and Sidney Scully.
Kaufman while rehearsing for this show at the Vista Del Mar Center named after the dance and arts champion. “I met
her at that space. Her work touched so many dancers in ways they don’t even know.”
Sefton’s hope is to have enough success with this showing that she can run it for two weeks during the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in L.A.
“How We Wear Our Art” will be performed Fri., Oct. 17, and Sun., Oct. 18, at 8 p.m., at the L.A. Dance Project, 2245 E. Washington Blvd.
For more information, contact info@clairobscurdance. Tickets are available for purchase at tinyurl.com/ ev7zwywe.
Golf, new vision is at Rancho Park
While the Wilshire Country Club undergoes renovations, the Rancho Park Golf Course is open and about a 20minute drive away.
On Preservation
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experimenting with plastics went on to found the plastics and toy manufacturer Mattel in 1945. The award was accepted by Joanna Hinksman, a resident of the complex and co-founder of the Clinton Manor Coalition, which led the effort to get the complex designated by the city.
The Rancho Park Golf Course has 18 holes and hosts over 100,000 rounds annually. A new vision is being explored for the site—the city seeks proposals to design and operate a full-service restaurant and bar inside a 6,000-square foot space. The City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks will overlook the construction and cover the build costs up to $4 million. The golf course is at 10460 W. Pico Blvd. Visit golf.lacity.gov.
LAURIE SEFTON, artistic director and choreographer of Laurie Sefton Creates.
Photo by Tatiana Wills
SEFTON’S 2022 SHOW “THE
Photo by Denise Leither
Caribbean-inspired eatery is stunning
I love a restaurant that feels as though I entered a friend’s warm home. Lucia , however, is not that restaurant. It’s more exciting.
After checking in at the hostess stand at the Caribbean-inspired eatery, a door is swung open with maximum dramatic effect to reveal a stunning interior, with enormous sculptural, petal-like elements rising behind the bar and personal Hollywood Bowl-esque canopies
HOLLYWOOD BOWL-ESQUE canopies invite diners.
RESTAURANT & COCKTAILS
On the Menu
by Helene Seifer
around each table along one wall, upholstered half-circle booths along another and a soaring wood bow truss ceiling above it all. Despite décor worthy of Architecture Digest magazine, however, one feels welcomed, not intimidated. Everyone, from the hosts to the waitstaff, are just the right amount of friendly and efficient. The menu is a balance of comforting and unusual and the background music is real music, not that dreadful ambient techno or chill house music played in so many of the Instagram-ready establishments around town. The attention-grabbing design ends up feeling warm and inviting in an Art Deco-meets-city-of-tomorrow kind of way. It has a grownup, vibrant atmosphere. The food is vibrant, as well.
Restaurateur Sam Jordan sampled a multitude of dishes on nearly every Caribbean island before opening Lucia, hiring Chef Adam Forte to helm. Forte is no stranger to Caribbean cuisine, having grown up in Kingston, Jamaica. He proved his chops as a Top Chef Canada semifinalist. Forte brings a
Lunch & Dinner Every Day of the Year
Restaurant Hours: Mon.- urs. noon to midnight Fri.-Sat.-Sun. noon to 1:00 a.m.
Bar open till 1:00 a.m. Mon.- urs. ~ 1:30 a.m. Fri. & Sat.
Cocktails embrace the theme, featuring such Caribbean ingredients such as taro, jerk spiced agave and Caribbean coconut. My husband’s drink, a mezcal-based riff on a Tom Collins, was made with tamarind, cinnamon, chili and Jamaican lager. I ordered a California Pinot Noir from their well-curated wine list.
Plates are meant to be shared, as is the style in most restaurants these days. We started with salt fish and fig croquettes. Four crispy balls filled with a mixture of the fish and fruit were served with a spicy cheese dipping sauce. We loved the contrast between the exterior crunch and soft interior. It was delicious. Another starter, pepper shrimp toast, was similar to the Chinese version with shrimp paste sandwiched between flavorful fried bread. Two small, four-inch pieces were topped with dabs of chado beni aioli, made from culantro, a leafy green similar to cilantro.
Nearly every table had plates heaping with coconut fried chicken or oxtail pepper pot, but our helpful server, Lian, recommended the snapper. The gener-
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SOLD: This home at 204 S. Plymouth Blvd. in Windsor Square sold for $5.85
Single-family homes
Condominiums
GRILLED RED SNAPPER is served with rice, peas and hot sauce.
LUCIA’S salt fish and fig croquettes.
Culture and civilization, guns and sex take on theatrical ways
Oswald Spengler, a sofa and a gun—topics for the day!
Spengler, the German philosopher, wrote his “Decline of the West” over 100 years ago. In it (to oversimplify) he posits that societies pass through two long phases: Culture and Civilization. “Culture” is the dynamic, creative phase, while “Civilization” merely “extends” what has been created. Galileo and Shakespeare are Culture; AI is Civilization. The “decline” is the “slop” (the term for low-grade content) of AI-spawned art, music and writing.
My Spenglarian angst was generated recently by two plays: Ashley Griffin’s The Opposite of Love, (Hudson Backstage through Sun., Aug. 31), and the revival of Stephen Adly Guirgis’ The Motherf**cker with the Hat, at the Odyssey, also through Sun. Aug. 31. (The asterisks are part of the title.) Both are plays about the trauma Spen-
gler’s Civilization inflicts on people. Both plays claim to be set in New York, but really take place in Spengler’s Caesarian “Megalopolis” (his neologism, not Coppola’s), the city without humanity.
Ms. Griffin wrote the play and stars as Eloise, a trustfund art history grad student who, molested as a child, apparently can’t find intimacy. She hires a male hustler (the charming Evan Strand) to instruct her in the ways of the flesh. The play’s “twist” (which takes too long to arrive), is that she is perfectly fine and just needed to get laid, while the sensitive hustler has fallen for his client. While well acted (especially by Ms. Griffin), the play feels like what a clever philosophy grad student would have submitted for her “Foucault
and Sexuality” class instead of writing her thesis. Tickets: 323-856-4249 or onstage411. com.
Mr. Guirgis’ “Hat” is the better written play, but has not aged well since its 2011 premiere. A formerly incarcerated drug dealer, Jackie, (BET TV’s “The Oval” star Lodric D. Collins) tries to go straight only to find that his AA sponsor is the “Motherf**cker with the hat” who has been ****ing his girl. Veronica’s a junkie, but she and Jackie have loved each other since eigth grade. Life is cruel, and innocent love dies hard. I can see Jackie, unemployable, taking over as Ms. Griffin’s hustler, or his AA sponsor (the very strong Alex Désert), leading a Sex Addicts Anonymous meeting. “It’s Megalopolis, Jake.” Despite a strong cast and a sympathetic production, “Hat” runs too long at over two hours. Pacing
is Sept. 29 at Artani Theatre
Storytelling extraordinaires will return to the stage via GrandSlam with The Moth on Mon., Sept. 29. Doors open at 7 p.m. with the event beginning at 8 p.m. at the Aratani Theatre, 244 San Pedro St., in The Japanese American and Cultural Center.
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ous meaty fillet was moist, sweet and smoky with beautifully grilled skin. It was served alongside a coconut butter sauce and a dollop of creamed callaloo, a spinach-like Caribbean green. We wanted more callaloo and will order a plate of it
The Moth is a nonprofit group that presents an unscripted, first-person storytelling competition across the United States. The Moth events are open mic storytelling competitions open across 27 cities in the United States, including Los Angeles. Ten participants are chosen at
next time. We ordered loaded rice and peas, served with hot sauce, which was a perfect starchy side.
Coconut panna cotta was a refreshing way to end dinner. Denser than the Italian version, it was surprisingly studded with shards of tasty meringue and enhanced by a mixture of chopped mango and little cubes of fruit jellies on the side.
Perhaps most surprising is that Lucia is on Fairfax Avenue in the former Black Star Burger space, just a block south of Canter’s Deli. Just a few weeks ago, the local press reported the “death” of Fairfax owing to most of the hot streetwear shops having moved out, taking with them the snaking lines of
random to tell a true story in five minutes. Storytellers are scored based on the content of their stories and their storytelling abilities. After 10 StorySLAMS, the 10 winners proceed to The Moth GrandSLAM. Visit themoth.org for more information.
customers eager for the next sneaker drop. Lucia might just be the thing to usher in a new phase of the ever-morphing street.
Lucia, 351 N. Fairfax Ave., 213-800-0048, luciala.com.
Open for dinner Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday, 6 p.m. to midnight; Friday and Saturday 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
would help, but this story of loss and redemption becomes old hat. Visit tmfwith.com.
Now for the gun and sofa. Each play, while well directed, has a problem that points to the challenge theater faces in our era of “Civilization.”
In “Opposite” there is sofa center stage. Our hustler and client discreetly (for the audience’s sake) go behind it to perform a simulated sex act.
In “Hat,” Jackie, violating parole, brings a gun to kill his “MF,” but it’s a plastic prop gun, and when they struggle the gun falls, bouncing along the floor. Am I advocating live sex acts and real guns on stage? No, but theater can’t pretend to be film or streaming TV—and shouldn’t try. We have to create events that can only occur in the theater, in purely theatrical ways, or audiences, other than our friends and family, will stop coming. Given our “Civili-
Honor first responders at Autry’s annual Block Party
By Julia Guillen
The annual Autry Block Party will celebrate local emergency responders. The party will also feature carnival games, live music, a car show, market vendors and food trucks. A meet-and-greet to celebrate local heroes will also take place. The main purpose of the event is to thank the community members who aided those in need during the L.A. fires.
The block party will take place Sat., Sept. 27 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m at Autry Museum of the American West, Griffith Park, 4700 Western Heritage Way.
zation,” we must get more creative in order to survive. Coming Up: Spengler believed that the West had made a “Faustian bargain” with technology and capitalism: progress now, pay later with plastics & PFAS, or “forever chemicals.”
While Spengler had Goethe’s “Faust” in mind, David Melville and the Independent Shakespeare bring Marlowe’s Faust and his dealings with the devil to life in Griffith Park through Sun., Aug. 31. Free; indieshakes.org
Finally, if Shakespeare’s “Romeo & Juliet” is Culture, then & Juliet, at the Ahmanson through Sun., Sept. 7, is Civilization flipping the script.
This jukebox musical Broadway hit asks what would happen if Juliet got over her Romeo and just moved on. Ah, love finally comes to Megalopolis! 213-628-2772; centertheatregroup.org.
LA Opera kicks off 40th season with Bernstein’s West Side Story
For its 40th anniversary, the Los Angeles Opera presents 10 showings of “West Side Story,” starring Gabriella Reyes as Maria and Duke Kim as Tony.
Music Director James Conlon will conduct the company premiere of Leonard Bernstein’s musical theater work.
Productions will take place from Sat., Sept. 20 through Sun., Oct. 12 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave.
Tickets start at $27.50. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit laopera.org.
Food, history, culture—Italy has it all
By Julia Guillen
My family loves to travel, but it’s been a while since we’ve had the chance to do so. With its tiny, winding roads, thousands of years of expertly preserved history, delicious food and beautiful sites, Italy was an incredible place to visit.
Pompeii is the scene of a historic tragedy. In 79 A.D., Mount Vesuvius erupted and engulfed the city in volcanic ash and pumice, killing thousands. The city disappeared in less than 48 hours. Since the beginning of its excavation in 1748, Pompeii has remained a site for discovery. About two-thirds have been uncovered, and more waits to be seen.
The Sistine Chapel is yet another impressive Italian cultural site. However, in the summer months it is horrifically overcrowded. I cannot understate this. Even if you get a guided tour, there are thousands of people surrounding you inside the chapel. Our tour was rushed, and the information we were given was often abbreviated as our guide ushered us from one room to the next. Despite this, it’s a beautiful historical landmark and I do recommend seeing it, but don’t say I didn’t warn you.
In terms of cuisine, if you’re looking for the world’s best pasta, I recommend a dish called spaghetti alla nerano. The taste of fried zucchini mixed with Parmesan cheese
is one I could experience every day and never tire of.
But don’t just take my word for it—I found out later that this dish is also the favorite of Emmy award-winning actor Stanley Tucci!
As for pizza, head to Naples, where Neapolitan pizza was birthed and perfected. And if you’re looking for gelato? Look no frther than the nearest street corner.
Speaking of street corners: unless you are traveling with someone who knows how to drive in Europe, or else is unafraid of scratching a car when you take a turn on a street clearly made for Vespas and foot traffic, don’t drive. I’m lucky my father is Spanish and could navigate the tiny streets, but I’ll never forget the panic of having to close the sideview mirrors so we could squeeze through a tight bend.
Italy was an adventure, and I highly recommend visiting.
Crossword: Back to School
ACROSS 3. Main reason your kid calls from college
4. Backpack at Lycee 8. LAUSD requires Pledge of
9. School was in 53 War of the Worlds
10. _____ says
12. _____ table of chemical elements
14. Friday night lights
16. Needed for dorm showers
18. The show Glee was about this
19. History teacher in Fast Times Mr. _____
20. No. 2
DOWN
1. L.A. High mascot
2. Drop off at Pre-K
5. LAUSD doesn’t allow these 6. Red Light/Freeze, Green Light ______
7. Needed for Freshman P.E.
11. Loyola HS school newspaper
13. Time to watch Bad _____ 15. Need extra help? Get a
17. _____ team, headed to be a lawyer
ANSWERS: Please turn to page 14. Answers will also be on our online edition in early August.
SPAGHETTI from the coast of Italy.
POMPEII excavation site.
PIZZA in Naples.
Looking Back: These 1960s women made it;
By Jane Gilman
“Those girls will never make it.” That’s the prediction the two women overheard as they left Dippell real estate office and stepped back onto Larchmont Boulevard. The pair was visiting business owners on the street to garner support for a brand new neighborhood newspaper. It was a warm day as Dawne Goodwin and Jane Gilman continued on their mission to enroll advertisers in the Larchmont Chronicle.
The two women had met in 1962 at another newspaper called Industrial News, whose main audience was aerospace executives. Now, a year later, both were unemployed, Jane suggested they start their own paper. “All we need is to find a shopping center,” she told Dawne.
While living in Denver, Colorado, Jane had worked on advertising fliers that promoted shopping centers. When Dawn drove her to a shopping center called Larchmont, it was not what Jane had in mind. But, when she saw the many shops and services along the Boulevard, she decided it was worth a try.
Larchmont is one of the city’s many small neighborhoods. Its retail corridor, Larchmont Boulevard, caters to the surrounding upper-class residents who live in Hancock Park and Windsor Square. The area, about
five miles from downtown Los Angeles, drew civic officials, judges, lawyers, doctors and celebrities including Nat King Cole and Mae West. Retail stores line the Boulevard, which stretches one long block from Beverly Boulevard to First Street. The variety of businesses in 1963 included toys and record stores, banks, a shoe shop, a book store, a small Safeway and specialty food markets and the upscale
Guided tour
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three-story Ebell, including its garden, lounge, library, sunroom and the Wilshire Ebell Theatre, where Judy Garland was discovered in 1934 while performing on stage with her sisters.
As of this writing, tickets for the film tours are going fast. Additional specialized tours are planned and will be announced soon. Presently tours elucidating the general history of the Ebell are offered monthly. To reserve a tour or for more information, go to ebellofla.org or call 323931-1277.
Jurgensen’s, a combination food, wine and gift store.
The next stop on Jane and Dawne’s quest for advertisers was LarchMart, a grocery store, where they received a wam reception. The owner, Dan Silverman, welcomed the idea of a paper that served the neighborhood. “We have the Los Angeles Times, the Citizen News and Wilshire Press, but none of them really tell what’s going on in our area,” he told the pair. He looked at the proposed front page with its headline “Freeway Threatens Hancock Park.” Dawne showed him the advertising schedule, and he agreed to take a full page for $200.
But not every merchant was willing to gamble on these two ladies. The women needed an advertising revenue totaling $1,500 to cover the cost of printing and mailing to 10,000 residents. After a full morning of calling on potential advertisers, the two had lunch at the Boulevard’s only restaurant, Helen’s Coffee Shop.
Helen wasn’t interested in advertising either.
Over the next few days,
been the top salesperson at Industrial News, wielding a talent she first honed at age 8, while observing her father, an aluminum siding salesman in her native Chicago. Jane’s background was in journalism, having worked for Cosmopolitan Magazine in New York City and Outdoor Sportsman in Denver.
the twosome continued calling storeowners. The bank manager at Western Federal Savings was interested but needed to get approval from headquarters. The owner of Bond Cleaners patiently listened to Dawne’s sales pitch but said “no.” She continued, but he still wasn’t interested. Finally, on her third try—and after another “no”—Jane tugged on Dawne’s jacket and told her, “He said no.” She finally gave up. That didn’t deter Dawne. She had
An afternoon visit to Larchmont Pharmacy proved worthwhile. The owner, Bill Schulhof, was already mailing a four-page newsletter to 10,000 neighbors and the women encouraged Mr. Schulhof to incorporate his newsletter into their newspaper. He told them he would think it over. The next day they got an answer—yes, he would take the center two pages for $200 each. That advertising support, plus ad revenue from other advertisers, ensured the birth of the Larchmont Chronicle
Jane Gilman is the co-founder of the Larchmont Chronicle that published its first edition in September of 1963.
CHRONICLE co-founders Jane Gilman and Dawne Goodwin flank local businessman Al Kelly Sr.
Deep in the halls of the Chamber of Commerce of the Italian city of Bologna sits a small wooden box holding a long, thin bar of pure gold. Viewable by appointment only, the artifact, called the “tagliatella d’oro,” measures exactly 8 millimeters (.31 inches) in width. It was submitted by the Academy of Italian Cuisine and registered with the city notary on April 16, 1972, becoming the golden standard against which all tagliatelle pasta in the world must measure. While the length and depth of an authentic tagliatella are not specified, the precise width (measured when cooked) is essential. “Any other size,” the act reads, “would make it lose its inimitable character.”
Can a pasta have personality? Some could be called stately, like the tagliatelle, of course, or the more familiar fettuccine and linguine. Others are curly, swirly and screwy—think radiatori, campanelle, strozzapreti or even good old elbow macaroni. I’m reminded of the long-adored New Yorker cartoon depicting a tube of rigatoni talking on the phone, with, we’re led to believe, another shape of pasta on the other end of the line. Rigatoni exclaims, “Fusilli, you crazy bastard! How are you?” “Inimitable character” indeed.
If one were to recreate the sketch specific to the Emilia-Romagna region (of which Bologna is the capital), the pastas on either end of the line might be the esteemed “tagliatelle,” from the italian “tagliare,” meaning “to cut,”
and its “crazy” counterpart, the irregularly-shaped bits and bobs of dough called “maltagliati”—translation: “cut poorly.”
It’s these shaping methods of the pasta-maker (called a “pastaio”) that often sway a noodle’s name. The aforementioned rigatoni, with its telltale fluted exterior, gets its name from the Italian “rigare,” meaning “to score.” The versatile cavatelli, an export of Italy’s southern regions, is individually rolled by the pastaio with a swift gesture of the thumb. This creates a rough, concave profile, hence its name, arriving from the Italian “cavare,” or “to dig out.” Other pasta names nod to those of us on the receiving end of such delicacies, like the wide, eggy ribbons of “pappardelle,” from the Tuscan dialect word “pappare,” meaning “to gobble up.”
Ziti, a pasta variety hailing from Sicily, is formed in long, narrow tubes that are then broken or cut to size when served with a slowcooked sugo alla genovese or a hearty ragù. The pasta’s Sicilian name translates literally to “grooms” or “brides,” an association owing to ziti having been the pasta of choice at weddings. The celebratory shape was served with stewed pork and cooked in large quantities, fulfilling a tradition in which the happy couple offers a heaping plate of pasta to each of their neighbors. Today, ziti
is the pasta associated with feast days in various regions in Italy, including the area of Molise, where popular belief calls for making ziti dishes on the Feast of the Epiphany to sidestep seeing the devil on your deathbed.
Back down to earth are pastas named simply for the everyday objects they were thought to resemble. Fettuccine, narrower than tagliatelle at 6.5 millimeters, is a Roman export that traces its moniker to the Italian “fetta,” meaning “slice” or “ribbon.” The thinner “spaghetti,” a steadfast companion to tomato sauce and meatballs, translates to “little strings,” from the Italian “spago,” meaning “thin string” or “twine.” The diminutive of “buco,” meaning “hole,” supplies the name for the fan-favorite pasta known as “bucatini,” notable for its tubular, drinking straw-like shape. The stuffed pockets of “tortellini” were thought to resemble little “torte,” or “pies,” and classic penne, with its ends cut at an angle, was developed in 1865 by Genoan pastaio Giovanni Battista Capurro to imitate the steel nib of a quill pen. The name of the modern cupboard staple translates to “pens” in Italian, having evolved from the Latin “penna,” meaning “quill.”
Look to a looking glass for the etymology of “capellini,” meaning “little hairs,” from the Italian “capelli.” Say “ah” and you’ll see the inspiration for the narrow, sauce-loving noodle “linguine,” a diminutive of the word “lingue,”
meaning “tongues.” Orecchiette, a small rounded and bent pasta and a Puglian point of pride, recalls yet another appendage—the “orecchio,” or “ear.”
A shape for a new era
In 2018, American food podcaster Dan Pashman set out to engineer a new pasta shape optimized to adhere well to sauce and have a distinctively toothsome bite. Three years, countless revisions and nearly $10,000 later, he debuted “cascatelli,” a curved pasta with ruffled edges, its name
arriving from the Italian word meaning “little waterfalls.”
The pasta was and remains a hit, quickly selling out its first batch of 3,700 boxes.
With a few simple tools at my disposal, my at-home forays in fresh pasta lack such deliberation—think “PlayDoh” more than “pastaio.” But with an egg, some flour and some water to bring it all together, I take my first bite and am reminded that, in the end, all pasta is perfection, and any shape—and character—will do.
Photographer’s travels featured in debut exhibit at Hexi gallery
By Suzan Filipek
“Semi-Public Spaces” features photos taken by Cole Harris on his many travels. His debut exhibit opening reception is on Fri., Sept. 12, from 6 to 10 p.m., at Hexi Los Angeles, 5209 Wilshire Blvd.
“Semi-Public Spaces” were places, “I found myself in that were more intimate and private... [but] as I became a part of them... allowed me to capture moments that otherwise wouldn’t exist in photo form,” he explained of his works.
Harris grew up in Brookside and attended St. James’, Millikan Middle and Campbell Hall High before graduating from Syracuse University in New York with a degree in environmental sustainability and sociology. After graduating in 2023, he found work at a resort in Dakhla, Morocco, followed by travels throughout Morocco, Spain, Thailand, Korea, Italy, the U.K. and Bosnia. The exhibit will be on display through September. Visit tinyurl.com/yc8p5jh6.
HAMOUDA, left, lets his hair down after a long day of waiting tables in Sidi Kaouki, Morocco. Photo by Cole Harris
