LC Real Estate 06 2022 by Larchmont Chronicle

DEVELOPMENT

MOVIES

Years-long reviews have concluded for Farmers project on Wilshire Boulevard.

COFFEE & COPS

Beloved film series returns after a two-year hiatus.

Page 2

Informal meet and greet took place at Peet’s on Larchmont last month.

Page 10

Real Estate Libraries, Museums Home & Garden

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VIEW

Section 2

LARCHMONT CHRONICLE

JUNE 2022

HANCOCK PARK • WINDSOR SQUARE • FREMONT PLACE • GREATER WILSHIRE • MIRACLE MILE • PARK LA BREA • LARCHMONT

201 N. Rossmore Ave. | Hancock Park | $6,850,000

89 Fremont Pl| Fremont Pl | $6,567,802

108 S. McCadden Pl. | Hancock Park | $4,995,000

126 N. Rossmore Ave. | Hancock Park | $4,799,000

Majestic Tudor in Hancock Park with fantastic golf course views. 5 beds + 4 baths, pool. 201Rossmore.com

JUST SOLD. Elegant, stately, pristine traditional home in historic gated tree-lined Fremont Place. Loveland Carr Group 323.460.7606 CalRE #01467820, 0888374

IN ESCROW. First time on the Market—Ever. Built by the family’s great grandparents. 5 beds, 5 baths, pool.

IN ESCROW. Ready to restore English estate with 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, guest house & pool.

Rick Llanos 323.810.0828 CalRE #01123101

Loveland Carr Group 323.460.7606 CalRE #01467820, 0888374

2021 N. Serrano Ave. | Los Feliz | $3,650,000

554 N. Cahuenga Blvd. | Hancock Park | $2,500,000

545 Lillian Way| Hancock Park| $2,435,000

639 N. McCadden Pl. | Hancock Park | $2,149,000

SOLD Represented Buyer. Ideally located on a tree-lined street in Los Feliz. 5 beds + 4 baths Spanish Charmer.

Recently renovated jewel box with ADU in Hancock Park HPOZ. 554 Cahuenga.com Loveland Carr Group 323.460.7606 CalRE #01467820, 0888374

SOLD Off Market! Located in True Hancock Park! 3 bed / 2.5 baths plus pool! Chic and sleek! Lisa Hutchins 323.216.6938 CalRE #01018644

SOLD. 2-story Spanish home. 2,008 sf, hardwood floors, massive backyard. ADU potential. Erik Flexner 310-941-FLEX (3539) CalRE #01352476

Rick Llanos 323.810.0828 CalRE #01123101

9043 Lloyd Pl. | West Hollywood | $1,799,000

541 Lillian Way | Hancock Park | $1,649,000

6538 Aldama St. | Highland Park | $1,098,000

645 Wilcox Ave. #3B | Hancock Park | $899,000

IN ESCROW. Ultra Charming and private Spanish Casita. 2beds + 2baths, hrdwd flrs, liv rm w/fpl, bonus rm.

Modern Breathtaking Oasis in True Hancock Park! 2 beds 1 bath situated on a gently elevated private lot. Lisa Hutchins 323.216.6938 CalRE #01018644

Remodeled home w/2 bed / 1ba + ADU office. Near hip York St. Onsite Parking. Represented the buyer. Barbara Allen 323.610.1781 CalRE #01487763

Gorgeous golf course view from the top floor. Large 1 bed + 2 bath. Pool, spa & 24-hr security. Loveland Carr Group 323.460.7606 CalRE #01467820, 0888374

6151 Orange St. #121 | Hancock Park | $499,000

145 S. Hudson | Hancock Park | $25,000/MO

160 N. McCadden Pl. | Hancock Park | $20,000/MO

251 S. Citrus Ave. | Hancock Park | $8,500/MO

SOLD. Beautiful 1/1 condo. Frplce, balcony. Pool. Gated garage. Close to LACMA, Grove, Transportation. Cecille Cohen 213.810.9949 CalRE #00884530

LEASED. Stately English on one of the finest blocks in Hancock Park. 6 bedrooms + 5.5 baths, pool w/ spa.

Furnished Lease, short or long term. 4 beds, 4.5 baths w/ a pool and guest house. Great location.

LEASED. Charming Spanish in 3rd St School District. 3 beds , 2.5 bas, family rm, great kitchen & guest house.

Rick Llanos 323.810.0828 CalRE #01123101

COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM Hancock Park 323.464.9272 | 251 N Larchmont Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90004 ©2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. CalRE #00616212

Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

SECTION TWO

Design Review Board approves former Farmers

By John Welborne Once again, the property comprising the former Farmers Insurance headquarters and its parking lots adjoining Brookside across from Hancock Park was on the agenda of the Park Mile Design Review Board (PMDRB). This time, on May 5, the staffs of the City of Los Angeles Planning Department and a multitude of other city departments seemingly had finally concluded their years-long reviews. Redevelopment of this property on Wilshire Boulevard between Muirfield Road and Rimpau Boulevard has been in discussion with neighbors for more than half a decade, ever since it was purchased by CIM Group in 2014. The Larchmont Chronicle reported on the early development plans in our September 2015 issue. And there have been many subsequent Chronicle reports as the plans moved (multiple times) to the PMDRB, which had become generally satisfied with the designs in their late2018 version. Local review board The PMDRB consists of local people familiar with architecture, construction and real estate. The board currently is comprised of Caroline Labin-

NEW BROOKSIDE RESIDENCES are visible in an aerial view looking northwest from above Fremont Place near the corner of Muirﬁeld Road and Eighth Street. In the foreground, along Eighth Street, there are six new single-family homes. To their north are another ten single-family residences, the “row homes.” To the west of that block is surface parking that is in addition to underground parking, all serving the former Farmers Insurance tower. The tower will house 65 condominium units and recreational space for residents. Some existing commercial ofﬁce space will remain in the building’s southern end.

er Moser and John LaBombard (Windsor Square), Susan Grossman and Michael Johnson (Hancock Park) and Ted Park (Brookside). In January 2020, the board again heard presentations from the staff of

CIM Group and its architectural and landscape consultants. And the board again expressed its support — as did the board, unanimously, at the recent May 5, 2022, meeting. At that meeting, the board was joined

in giving its support by the single-family neighbors arguably most affected, who live just across Eighth Street, Jan Wieringa and Taylor Louden. During the Zoom board meeting, Louden and Wieringa

stated their appreciation for the work that has gone into the project and that they look forward to seeing the six new single-family homes built across the street from them, together with the rest of the project.

expert service. exceptional results. SOLD

SOLD

552 Wilcox| $4,170,000 4 Bed+5 Bath| Hancock Park

In Escrow SOLD

6216 Warner Dr.|$2,860,000 4 Bed+ 3 Bath | Carthay Circle

In Escrow SOLD off Market

Sold1903 E. Woodlyn | $1,450,000 1819 S. Ridgeley| $1,225,000

www.coregroupla.com

6927 La Presa |$2,105,000 3 Bed+3 Bath| Hollywood Hills

For Lease

SOLD

Sold 2 Bed+1 Bath| Mid City

SOLD

3 Bed+2 Bath| Pasadena

NEW LISTING

225 N. Norton| $10k Per Month 4 Bed+3 Bath| Windsor Square

Pete Buonocore

pete@coregroupla.com

323.762.2561

DRE #01870534

DRE #01279107

Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

SECTION TWO

tower project, other new Brookside residences The PMDRB recommendation of approval goes to the city’s Director of Planning. There still must be numerous other city reviews, such as by a Zoning Administrator this summer and by another agency concerning the subdivision to create the home lots. Shaul Kuba, who co-founded CIM in 1994, told us last month that x-ray testing and other exploratory work has started in the historic tower. Seismic retrofit work there may get underway in late summer or early fall and is expected to take six months, commencing more than seven years after the original city application. Technically, what was before the PMDRB on May 5 was a city procedure called a Project Permit Compliance (SPP) review, as well as a Park Mile (DRB) review. There were two cases*, one for each block (with Block A being the western block with the historic office tower). Block A The case for that block is an adaptive reuse, subdivision and change of use of the existing Farmers Insurance building’s offices into 65 residential condominium units and a unit of approximately 62,152 square feet of existing office space, all above a one-level subterranean

parking garage. The existing façade of the Farmers Building will be maintained, and no additional floor area is proposed. Block A will provide 234 parking spaces located within subterranean parking and the existing surface parking lot. Block B The case for Block B is for a small-lot subdivision for the construction, use and maintenance of ten three-story singlefamily small-lot homes comprised of two detached units and four duplex units (“row homes”) and six two-story small-lot homes along Eighth Street, for a total of 16 smalllot homes. The project proposes attached two-car garages for each home and eight shared guest parking spaces for a total of 40 on-site parking spaces. There will be a total of 81 units in the two blocks of the project. This conforms to the density limits established by the restrictive Park Mile Specific Plan that has governed the area along Wilshire Boulevard between Wilton Place and Highland Avenue since 1979. *The Block A planning department case number is ZA-2019-2192-ZAD-DRB-SPP. The Block B case number is DIR-2021-6475-DRB-SPP-HCA. Simple city stuff!

SIX NEW SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES have their front yards fronting on Eighth Street. All of their parking (a two-car garage for each house and shared guest parking spaces) is in the rear. The top of the former Farmers Insurance tower can be seen to the west.

TWO BROOKSIDE BLOCKS are shown in this plan view, with the 16 new single-family homes (six facing Eighth Street and the ten row homes to their north) being in the eastern block. The western block will see adaptive reuse of the former office tower to include 65 new condominium units, including three penthouse units on the tower’s eighth floor. Both blocks will have substantial additional landscaping.

JUNE 2022

SECTION TWO

Larchmont Chronicle

Align Physical Therapy is oﬀering more post-pandemic

By Caroline Tracy Align Physical Therapy is expanding its footprint and its offerings. Located at 562 N. Larchmont Blvd., the studio has leased additional space in the same building to accommodate new services, including personal training, myofascial release massage therapy and acupuncture. Expansion and renovations are set to be

complete as of the beginning of this month. “I’m so pleased about the opening of the Performance and Recovery Center,” said Amanda Star, owner of Align. “Our original services [which include chiropractic, physical therapy, Redcord, Pilates and Gyrotonic] help clients get out of pain; the Performance and Recovery Center helps them

stay out of pain.” Upon entering Align, clients are met with various instruments for rehabilitation, movement and strengthening. The Redcord and Gyrotonic stations, for example, can be used as part of therapeutic treatment or as a supplement to any fitness regimen. The new Performance and Recovery Center, which

Homes for an Era, Agents for a Lifetime NEW LISTING

713 N. Orange Dr.

occupies the ground floor suite across the hall, provides a space for personal training and massage therapy. “We are now a boutique fullservice gym and healing center,” explained Ms. Star. “Whether clients are recovering from a specific injury or looking to elevate an existing training routine, we have the ability to offer one-onone coaching in a supportive environment.” ALIGN owner Amanda Star in the studio’s Align has been new Performance and Recovery Center. a staple for chiropractic and physical therapy the operation with a wellon the north end of the Bou- rounded, holistic approach to levard since 2007 (under dif- healing. For more information, visit ferent ownership). Ms. Star took over in 2018, imbuing alignpt.com.

161 S. Citrus Ave. | Offered at $2,495,000 3 BR | 2.5 BA | Pool Beautifully remodeled Spanish home on one of the most coveted streets in Hancock Park! The verdant front garden welcomes you to the tranquil vibe of an urban oasis. Resort style backyard offers serene and quintessential California lifestyle.

Naomi Hartman Leah Brenner

323.860.4259 / 4245

nhartman@coldwellbanker.com lbrenner@coldwellbanker.com CalRE #: 00769979 | 00917665

Members ~ Society of Excellence www.naomiandleah.com

©2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. CalRE #00616212.

VARIOUS therapeutic machines are available for clients to meet their strengthening needs.

Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

SECTION TWO

Preservation paradox: YIMBYs and Brookside reuse project 1912, is comprised of architecturally significant homes by Willis Polk, Bernard Maybeck and Julia Morgan, among others. St. Francis Wood long has been recognized as a significant early garden suburb. In fact, the only argument that could be mustered by opponents was that St. Francis Wood had been founded with racist covenants (invalidated in 1948) and that historic designation would continue this “exclusionary” status because it would prevent greater density. Los Angeles YIMBYs While the heat of this type of conflict tends to cool in the temperate climes of Southern California, I did notice some aspects of the discussion that reminded me of some of the debates and misconceptions about the preservation of our own historic communities. I wrote about this in 2020 with regard to local density advocates’ “Purple Line Plan” that essentially called for the abolition of our Historic Preservation Overlay Zones (HPOZs) using some of the same reasoning as those opposing the designation of St. Francis Wood. See: tinyurl.com/2s3dst58 But what is particularly troubling is the evolution of this anti-architecture focus

On Preservation by

Brian Curran

by YIMBYs in light of the fact that areas designated historic make up only six percent of Los Angeles and two percent of San Francisco. It was YIMBY activists who pressured Attorney General Rob Bonta to go off half-cocked recently — attacking the City of Pasadena for codifying exemptions for its landmark districts, a stance which Bonta was forced to reverse when he discovered that their exemptions were valid. In my estimation, YIMBYs see supporters of historic preservation as a particular kind of NIMBY (Not in My Back Yard) person, characterized as one or all of the following: conservative, elitist, rich, white, racist. That peson is an easier foe to attack and criticize than antigentrification folks, community groups and affordable housing advocates operating in lowand middle-income areas, often communities of color. In the zero-sum world of the YIMBY, any restriction on new housing

anywhere is heresy. But punching downward doesn’t make for good headlines. Intensifying locally It is a great paradox to this thinking that in Los Angeles two of the city’s most diverse communities with the greatest number of historic properties, Downtown and Hollywood, have seen the most intense levels of development. Even in Greater Wilshire, with its wealth of HPOZs and historic neighborhoods and historic cultural monuments, ample room has been found for growth in and around Hancock Park and Windsor Square, including the neighborhoods along Wilton Place, Rossmore Avenue, Melrose Avenue and even upper Larchmont Boulevard. But it is undoubtedly CIM Group’s “Wilshire Mullen” development in Brookside that tells a true success story of preservation and development working hand in hand. Forged in design and planning discussions with community stakeholders, the project will feature a restored and adaptively reused Art Deco eight-story former Farmers Insurance Company building with 65 new housing units and will replace a parking lot with 10 duplexes and six new sin-

gle-family residences in styles sympathetic to the architectural character of Brookside, all while being compliant with the Park Mile Specific Plan. CIM’s continual engagement with surrounding neighborhood groups, the care with which it designed its new housing and the respect with which it approached the historic resources involved all generated community support. CIM is also proposing more units by converting the upper floors of its nearby circa-1986 three-story office building at Wilshire Boulevard and Keniston Avenue into apartments, as well as by constructing 12 new townhomes on Eighth Street between Rimpau and Hudson in Brookside. Perhaps there is a lesson preservationists can teach YIMBYs about development. Preservation is not about protecting the past from progress, but about managing change in our built environment in a way that respects what has come first, while introducing additions which build on the best of the past to create a sustainable future. Unfortunately this is not something easily learned by those whose strategy is predicated on conflict, not resolution.

DESIGN DRIVEN REAL ESTATE

For Sale | 1434 Stearns Drive Faircrest Heights Spanish Charmer 3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,716 SF | 6,448 lot | Guest House | $1,699,000

Coming Soon | 931 South Sierra Bonita Ave Miracle Mile Classic Spanish 3 BD | 2 BA | 2,014 SF | 7,001 lot | Guest Studio

Ali Jack Windsor Square Native & Marlborough Alumna DRE 01952539

Just Sold | 545 Lillian Way

213.507.3959 | ali.jack@compass.com |

545 Lillian Way Hancock Park | Off Market

@thealijack | TheAliJack.com

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01991628. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate.

It is an annoying and unfortunate reality that the priorities and prejudices of the YIMBY (Yes In My Back Yard) movement are set in the Bay Area, and then they are brought to the statehouse by their champion State Sen. Scott Wiener of San Francisco, who recently in a tweet called for an end to exemptions for historic districts from housing laws. Wiener’s utterance predictably was met with a raucous roar of approval from his followers, calling not only for the end to exemptions, but to end other protections (even Mills Act contracts) for contributors to historic districts. See: tinyurl.com/5y3298ww St. Francis Wood The tweet was in response to the designation of the San Francisco neighborhood St. Francis Wood as historic by the state Office of Historic Resources. YIMBYs saw this, as they see any move by municipalities to exert land use powers, as a means of circumventing the recently enacted Senate Bill 9, the housing law that allows lot splits and greater density in single-family neighborhoods. This outcry gave no regard to history and design — that this Olmstead brothers-planned “residence park,” created in

Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

SECTION TWO

Hollywood Bowl to kick off its centennial season on June 3

By Cerys Davies The Hollywood Bowl has been the home to the Los Angeles summer music scene for the past 100 years. This

Jazz plays on the Welcome Plaza on Fridays at LACMA

Hear Jazz at LACMA every Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. Each week features a different musical performance outdoors in the Smidt Welcome Plaza. The Matt Gordy JazzTonite Sextet play June 3, and the Anthony Fung Quartet perform June 10. Bob Reynolds Quartet sparks up the night June 17, and Amber Weekes takes the stage June 24. The program continues to November. Free and on a first come, first served basis. For more information on the program, visit LACMA.org.

milestone will be celebrated on Fri., June 3 beginning at 8 p.m. with an opening night that encapsulates the spirit of the venue. The Bowl is known for showcasing artists from different genres, and opening night is no exception: it will focus on celebrating jazz, movie, classical and pop music. It is only right that opening night features the unconventional duo of Grammy winner Gwen Stefani and the Los Angeles Philharmonic (LA Phil). Centennial Overture The evening begins with the premiere of “Centennial Overture,” specifically written by John Williams for the Bowl. Williams’ “Escapades” from the film “Catch Me If You Can,” as well as Stravinsky and Ravel, are also on the program. The LA Phil and Stefani will be joined by the Youth Or-

chestra of Los Angeles (YOLA) and the UCLA Bruin and USC Trojan marching bands. The night is guaranteed to end on a high note. 101 Festival The Bowl will continue to celebrate its centennial through music and community with the free 101 Festival. This two-day festival will take place on Sat., June 11 at the Bowl and Sun., June 12 at its sister venue, The Ford, on the other side of the Hollywood Freeway (the 101). This special summer season also includes “Juneteenth: A Celebration of Freedom” on Sun., June 19 at 4:30 p.m. It will feature the Re-Collective Orchestra, marking the first time an all-Black orchestra will perform at the Bowl. For tickets and more information, visit HollywoodBowl. com.

MONTELONGO AND PARSONS LA’s Architectural Real Estate Group

HAPPY 100TH TO THE BOWL. This summer’s opening night will Photo LA PHIL be one to remember.

Music Center Dance DTLA set to return on Fridays starting June 3 The Music Center’s Dance DTLA series is finally back. Starting June 3 and continuing every Friday through Sept. 2, people of all ages, levels and interests are invited to dance their summer nights away. Dance instructors will offer lessons between 7 and 11 p.m. at the Jerry Moss Plaza

Paul Williams-inspried 1930s Georgian Colonial Revival set upon a park-like Brentwood acre with breakfast room by world-renowned interior designer Thomas A. Buckley.

AARON MONTELONGO Executive Director, Luxury Division 310.600.0288 aaronmontelongo@gmail.com DRE 01298036

BRET PARSONS Founder & Executive Director, Architectural Division 310.497.5832 bret@bretparsons.com DRE 01418010

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. DRE 01866771. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate.

at The Music Center. Every week will emphasize different dance styles, ranging from Bollywood to tango to K-pop. After the lessons, event-goers are invited to stay and party on the open dance floor with a live DJ set. For more information, visit musiccenter.org/dancedtla.

Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

SECTION TWO

Auto repair and gas service station are neighborhood staples By Nona Sue Friedman A trustworthy local mechanic is such a necessity in this car-centric city. Our neighborhood is privileged to have one at S.M.G Auto Repair, 4700 Beverly Blvd. at St. Andrews Place. This shop is continuing a tradition of service going back to at least the 1950s. If you haven’t had the opportunity to patronize this neighborhood establishment, check them out next time you need your car serviced or an oil change. The shop is knowledgeable, reasonable, reliable and very friendly — not to mention close by. The latest owner, Irvin Potensiano, is thrilled to own the shop and become a more permanent part of this unique area. He bought the service

portion of the (now Chevron) gas station in August 2019 from his then boss Arman Mkrtchyan, who still owns the gas station. Potensiano, a mechanic at multiple stations before arriving at this shop on Beverly Boulevard, had been working there for about five

years before he and his boss started talking about the possibility of Potensiano’s owning the shop. He said, “I’ve always wanted to own my own shop. When this opportunity came around, I took it. It’s been a huge blessing.” Helping and getting to know people and their cars is

what brings Potensiano joy. He helps multiple members of some families and claims he probably knows a family or two on every block between his shop and Larchmont Boulevard. As the theme song to “Cheers” says, “Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name.”

A bonus to this auto shop is the snack store. It has a surprisingly eclectic and high-end selection of candy and snacks. Where are you headed the next time your car needs gas or servicing? [Full disclosure: The writer is a longtime customer of S.M.G Auto Repair.]

Buyer Need DUPLEX, TRIPLEX, FOURPLEX UP TO $1.7M

OWNER POTENSIANO and co-worker under a car.

Friends, I am looking for a offmarket income property, 2-4 units, in the Hancock Park/ West Hollywood area as soon as possible. Fixers are ok! My buyer is willing to go up to $1.7M. Please contact me!

Jill Galloway

Estates Director, Sunset Strip 323.842.1980 | jill@jillgalloway.com jillgalloway.com | DRE 01357870

PROMINENT IN THE neighborhood since the 1950s, the auto repair shop still stands at the corner of Beverly Boulevard and St. Andrews Place. It now is a Chevron station.

Larchmont Chronicle

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SECTION TWO

LANLT presents Garden Party at park June 16

“RICHARD AND JUBAL” by Sally Rightor Parks.

Works by Sally Parks are on view

“New Works,” a solo exhibition by watercolorist Sally Rightor Parks, is on view at SPARC Gallery in South Pasadena through July 9. Free. Parks, a former longtime area resident, is known for her evocative local landscapes, cityscapes and botanical scenes. Parks describes

her watercolor paintings as celebrations of nature and “a reminder that we are stewards of our earth.” Operated by the South Pasadena Arts Council, SPARC Gallery is inside the Chamber of Commerce at 1121 Mission St. To schedule a visit, contact Blue Trimarchi at 626-676-4195.

The Los Angeles Neighborhood Land Trust (LANLT) Garden Party is on Thurs., June 16 from 5 to 8 p.m. Attendees are invited to participate either virtually or in person at the Wishing Tree Park in West Carson. Del Amo Action Committee, Calif. Assemblyman Al Muratsuchi and LANLT Park Steward Fernando Larios will be honored. Cocktails, hors d’oeuvre, entertainment and a live auction are featured. LANLT is responsible for adding almost 13 acres of green space to Los Angeles County by creating parks and gardens. Over the past 20 years, 400,000 Los Angeles residents have gained access to green spaces provided by LANLT. For more information about LANLT or the Garden Party, visit lanlt.org.

SOLD: The home at 149 Hudson Pl. in Hancock Park was sold for $7,101,900 in April 2022.

Real Estate Sales* Single-family homes

149 Hudson Pl. 212 N. Plymouth Blvd. 221 S. St. Andrews Pl. 321 N. Martel Ave. 613 N. Alta Vista Blvd. 216 N. Arden Blvd. 153 S. Larchmont Blvd. 422 S. Sycamore Ave. 569 N. Beachwood Dr. 110 N. Gardner St. 250 N. Gramercy Pl. 5014 1/2 Rosewood Ave. 7220 Rosewood Ave.

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Clint Lohr

Realtor®, GRI, CNE, SRES 818-730-8635 rholcwl@pacbell.net clintlohr.kw.com

KELLER WILLIAMS® LARCHMONT 118 N. Larchmont Blvd., Los Angeles CA 90004 Each office is independently owned and operated

Donating clothes for the homeless? Please call me!

4848 Wilshire Blvd., #304 4460 Wilshire Blvd., 703 4848 Wilshire Blvd., PH 305 517 S. Wilton Pl., #2 585 N. Rossmore Ave., #209 837 S. Windsor Blvd., #9 602 S. Wilton Pl., #202 102 S. Manhattan Pl., #106 620 S. Gramercy Pl., #102 801 S. Plymouth Blvd., #305 620 S. Gramercy Pl., #132 647 Wilcox Ave., #1H 528 N. Sycamore Ave., #528D 525 N. Sycamore Ave., #425 620 S. Gramercy Pl., #233 620 S. Gramercy Pl., #424 *Sale prices for April.

$7,101,900 $3,815,703 $3,100,000 $2,750,000 $2,400,000 $2,360,000 $2,300,000 $1,985,000 $1,675,000 $1,579,000 $1,475,000 $1,419,000 $1,110,000 $1,620,000 $1,615,000 $1,600,000 $960,000 $925,000 $845,500 $830,000 $735,000 $639,000 $636,000 $630,000 $600,000 $560,000 $525,000 $501,000 $397,000

Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

FOREST at the time of June 2021 planting.

Photo by John Hughes

SECTION TWO

HALF-YEAR MARK on November 4, 2021.

Photo by John Hughes

A Miyawaki-method forest celebrates one year in Griﬃth Park By Helene Seifer The Miyawaki forest planted in Griffith Park in June 2021 is approaching its first birthday. The dense Miyawaki method encourages fast growth, and the tallest of the 13 indigenous species already has grown to 8 feet tall within a year, doubling the 4-foot height achieved at the five-month mark. The 1,000 square feet of the circular future forest is located in the Bette Davis picnic area of the park. After two years of care, the forest should be self-sustaining. As we initially reported last year, horticulturist Katherine Pakradouni explained the circular space: “It’s an easy

design to start with. I’d seen similar designs and they were nice and inviting. I didn’t want it to be overwhelming. I want to demonstrate how much of an impact can be made in such a small space.” There is a 40-foot path through the middle of the forest, which Pakradouni says will “Encourage people to walk through it. A participatory quality will be a part of it.” Funded by the Hancock Park Garden Club and maintained by the Los Angeles Parks Foundation, the micro forest initiative is part of a program to quickly add to our city’s green canopy and to help slow climate change.

LAST MONTH, on May 20, 2022.

Featured Listings for the Month of June by

Photo by Zach Grossman

June Ahn

510 S Hewitt St #102 | Offered at $1,349,000 SALE SUBJECT TO BANKRUPTCY COURT APPROVAL & OVERBID. SOLD "AS IS". Located in the Art District of Downtown LA. With an undeniable urban soul and artist energy, build your own dream lifestyle living in this huge air space 2 story unit. The Barker Block is the hub of the Los Angeles "scene". Museums, restaurants and boutiques are right out your front door. The resort style building has so many amenities including rooftop pool, gym and cabana with views and lounge areas through the complex. The unit is one of the largest in the complex with step down living room, hardwood floors, high ceilings and a massive brick wall which adds to the aesthetic. 2 parking spaces #46 & #169. 24 hour security guarded building. Co-Listed.

June Ahn

International President’s Elite

Cell: 323.855.5558

juneahn21@gmail.com www.juneahn.com | CalRE #01188513

4460 Wilshire Blvd. #206 | Offered at $1,300,000 3 bedroom, 2.5 baths. No unit below you. 24 hour security guard. Common area with swimming pool and spa. Hardwood floors throughout, nicely renovated. Living room facing Wilshire Blvd. Double pane glass windows. Many guest parking and it comes with 2 parking spaces. Many upgrades are: Kitchen, hardwood floors, new door on den. One of the luxurious condominium in Hancock Park adjacent. 2,250 sq.ft. as per tax record.

Hancock Park 251 N. Larchmont Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90004

Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

SECTION TWO

Magic, chess, art, wild birds at in-person library events

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 ASK A LIBRARIAN 213-228-7272 infonow@lapl.org SERVICES Book bundles to-go, browse and borrow, public computers, Wi-Fi, wireless printing and inperson and online programming. HOURS Mon. and Wed. 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tues. and Thurs. noon to 8 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Memorial Branch Library will kick-start its in-person activities with First Friday’s Book Club June 3 at 1 p.m. Next, a free weekly chess club will begin Fri., June 17 from 3 to 5 p.m.. All ages and skill levels are welcome. They’ll even teach you how to play. Lastly, El Ropo!, otherwise known as Phil Van Tee, will perform live magic and sleight of hand for guests on Wed., June 22 at 1 p.m. Fairfax Branch Library is getting in on the fun with Bubblemania on Tues., June 7 at 4 p.m. Watch bubble masters create magical shimmering light reflections and envelop willing participants in a giant bubble. John C. Fremont Branch Library is bringing wildlife to its location on Sat., June 11 at 10:30 a.m. with Wendy’s Tropical Birds. Her parrots will talk, sing and do tricks to delight the audience. If you are feeling creative, come by Sat., June 18 at 10:30 a.m. to create DIY colored tile cup coasters.

Film series in classic settings returns

Los Angeles Conservancy’s popular film series, Last Remaining Seats, returns after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19. The Regency’s Village Theatre in Westwood will start off the series Sat., June 4 at 8 p.m. with “To Sir, With Love” (1967), starring Sidney Poitier. Audience members will enjoy a double feature at the second event of the series Sun., June 12 at 1 p.m. at the Orpheum Theatre in Downtown Los Angeles. “The Immigrant,” a Charlie Chaplin classic short from 1917 will play, followed by another Chaplin film, “The Kid” (1921). Both films will feature live organ music accompaniment. Later that night, June 12 at 7 p.m., the Orpheum will also host a screening of “Blade Runner: The Final Cut” (1982), which stars Harrison Ford and is celebrating its 40th anniversary. At the French Baroque-style Los Angeles Theatre, Joan Crawford and Norma Shearer lead the cast of “The Women” (1939) on Sat., June 18 at 2 p.m. Hitchcock’s thriller “Notorious” (1946) plays at

THE ORPHEUM THEATRE, which opened in 1926, will host some of the films in the Los Angeles Conservancy series. The opulent theater was the final home of the Orpheum vaudeville circuit in Los Angeles.

the historic theater later that night starting at 8 p.m. Each screening includes special guests and a Q&A about the theater’s history

after the film. For tickets and more information about the program, visit losangelesconservancy. org.

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Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

SECTION TWO

‘It Was Her Own Light:’ pioneering photographer Imogen Cunningham

It was a party in San Francisco. Wish I could have been there. June 5, 1920. At Dorothea Lange’s portrait studio, 540 Sutter Street. The guest of honor was 24-year-old photographer Edward Weston. Lange invited Northern California photographer Imogen Cunningham also, specifically to meet Weston. As a follow-up, Weston sent some of his prints to Cunningham. She was delighted. Cunningham and Weston would run neck-and-neck as pioneers and inventors of modernism in photography. (Lange of course is best known for her consummate documentary storytelling.) They were about the same age, and they began their careers in the soft-focus Pictorialist style. They both became bold innovators of modernism. They both were parents to three wild boys. But Weston’s career success was immediate. Cunningham’s was not. At age 73, she felt “overlooked and undervalued.” She also was author of some of the most penetrating and psychological portraits of the 20th century. In 1963, at the age of 80, Cunningham finally had solo shows at the San Francisco Museum of Art and at the Art

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Institute of Chicago. She wrote to her friend and colleague Minor White: “Everything good has come so late. Ron [her son] says it has only happened because I have lived so long — that I am the most neglected photographer of my time.” The Getty Center’s recent exhibit, “Imogen Cunningham: A Retrospective” (March 8 – June 12, 2022) was a corrective. It was the first major show of her work in the United States in a quarter-century. It was a stunning and revelatory exhibit. The scope and brilliance of her long career swept me away. She began working in about 1910 and continued just up to her death at 93 in 1976. But if you miss the Getty exhibit, I think the beautiful catalogue, “Imogen Cunningham: A Retrospective,” written by associate curator of photographs at the J. Paul Getty Museum, Paul Martineau, and longtime Cunningham scholar Susan Ehrens (Getty Publications, 2020) will sat-

isfy. The reproduction of the photographs that were in the exhibit is superb, and the Matineau and Ehrens essays are revealing and carefully considered. (The book is my source for these biographical facts.) I became enchanted with Cunningham around 1980, when my late husband, Bill Linsman, brought to me a signed poster of a photograph by California photographer Judy Dater. Dater’s 1974 photograph, “Imogen and Twinka in Yosemite,” which features the 91-yearold encountering a nymph (the model Twinka Thiebaud), appeared in “Life” Magazine. Why did “everything good come so late” for Cunningham? Hers was the story of almost every visual artist who happened to be a woman in the man’s world of the first half of the 20th century. Other parallels between Cunningham and Weston? Let’s take those boys. Weston often lived apart from his wife; the boys were with him when it pleased, and he was never alone. A succession of loves was around to help; he was free to pursue his work. Cunningham turned out to be a parent with the sole responsibility for her three boys. In the 1930s, when Condé Nast

CATALOGUE includes reproduction of the photographs in the exhibit.

asked her to travel to New York from San Francisco for photo assignments, she asked her artist-husband along. He wanted to change the dates; she wanted to honor her employer’s timetable. He threatened divorce; he followed through. She once wrote a brief, unpublished essay called, “One Hand in the Dishpan, the Other in the Dark-

room: Of the Brief History of the Photographing Mother.” Minor White wrote of her in 1963 when Cunningham photographed him: “She likes to photograph anything that can be exposed to light, I remember her saying. Only then did I realize it was her own light — whether she admitted it or even knew it.”

Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

SECTION TWO

Deli dreams are on view at an exhibit at the Skirball They brought in Lara Rabinovich, an independent contractor for the Skirball, for her scholarly food knowledge. She holds a Ph.D from New York University in history and Jewish studies, with a specialty in immigration food, especially that of Romanian immigrants who brought with them the food that would become the heart and soul of the deli: pastrami. While Rabinovich delved into such historical milestones as when and from where Jewish immigrants arrived in America and how it related to the development of the deli, Mart and Thurston ate their way across the nation, one deli at a time. The result is a delicious collection of artifacts from the immigrant experience, such as a Polish passport, a Certificate of Lawful Entry and silver candlesticks. There are historic photographs of myriad delicatessens and their workers, classic deli menus, matchbook covers sporting deli names and examples of deli uniforms, including a uniform from Canter’s. The exhibit includes a meat grinder, a cash register and photographs of piles

CANTER’S DELI on Fairfax Avenue, 2018. of deli food. Also included are advertising images, such as a 1940s Hebrew National neon sign, and posters of “You don’t have to be Jewish to love Levy’s real Jewish rye.” Delicatessens began in New York when immigrants from central Europe, now part of Germany, brought over deli foods they loved, such as pickles, knishes and borscht, which became deli staples. In fact, as we find out at the exhibit, delicatessen means “a place to find delicious things to eat.” Later immigrants came from Eastern Europe and added their cuisines into the mix. Delis became a home away from home for immigrants. In particular, concentration camp survivors learned how to trust people again by opening or frequenting delis. Yiddish was spoken by many immigrants, so Yiddish, along with food, became the glue that made the deli a place of community. On one wall hangs a list of Yiddish words to learn. “The Golden Age of deli was the mid-century,” explained Rabinovich. “There were 5,000 of them in New York at that time.” She continued, “Then things turned toward the end of the 20th century when many delis did close.” Lucky for us, a new trend in delis emerged recently. “Embracing one’s roots caused a revival in deli,” Rabinovich noted. In Los Angeles, this (Please turn to page 13)

Photo by David George /Alamy Stock Photo

UNIFORM AND CASH REGISTER from Canter’s. Installation view of “I’ll Have What She’s Having: The Jewish Deli.”

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By Helene Seifer My friend Stan Deutsch’s favorite deli dish is Langer’s #19: pastrami and Swiss on rye. Sometimes I think he travels all the way from his home in Sacramento to nosh at a good Los Angeles deli as much as to visit me. The best elixir for a cold, according to Hancock Park’s Janna Harris, was matzo ball soup from the late, great Greenblatt’s Deli. Most of the time, I dream about Canter’s lox, eggs and onions with a bagel and schmear. Who among us hasn’t enjoyed a meal at a Jewish delicatessen? Referencing the famous line from the film “When Harry Met Sally,” “‘I’ll have what she’s having:’ The Jewish Deli” exhibit, at the Skirball Cultural Center through September 4, traces the history and importance of these pastrami palaces. The exhibit came about when curators Lara Mart and Cate Thurston were chewing over ideas at lunch and realized that food brings people together. Looking through items in the Skirball’s permanent collection, it became clear that an interesting approach to a food exhibit would be to examine the delicatessen.

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Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

SECTION TWO

Relax and breathe at Academy Museum’s ‘Calm Mornings’

DRAWING ANIMATION CHARACTERS during Calm Mornings at the Academy Museum.

address neurodiversity, and Calm Mornings is the first program it created to do so. On the third Saturday of most months, an hour is set aside before the museum opens for those who would benefit from dimmed lights, lowered

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(Continued from page 12) can be seen at Wexler’s Deli in Grand Central Market and Daughter’s Deli in West Hollywood, among others. Canter’s is prominently featured in the exhibit. Established in 1931 in the then heavily Jewish neighborhood of Boyle Heights, it moved first to 439 N. Fairfax, then in 1953 to its present location

at 419 N. Fairfax. The oldest deli in Los Angeles, Canter’s has managed to stay relevant throughout the dips and peaks of deli popularity. Apart from an extensive menu of delicatessen favorites, Canter’s is also known for entertaining night owls in its Kibitz Room. “‘I’ll Have What She’s Having:’ The Jewish Deli,” Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., 310-4404500, skirball.org.

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goal to make these programs interactive and adaptable to many learning styles.” It was especially appropriate for the Academy Museum to address neurodiversity because, as Homma articulates, “The film industry is filled with neurodivergent creators.” The program leader behind Calm Mornings, Caitlin Manocchio, is herself neurodivergent. She plans to expand beyond this one program in serving her community, including activities that showcase disabled film professionals. The June edition of Calm Mornings is Sat., June 25 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m and celebrates Early Cinema. An additional fee allows visitors access to the 11 a.m. Martin Scorsesedirected film “Hugo.” Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, 6067 Wilshire Blvd. 323-930-3000.

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By Helene Seifer I am calm from head to toe. Big breath in and blow out slow. -From “I am Calm from Head to Toe: Calm is my Superpower” by Lisa Thompson It’s easy to lose composure in our chaotic world. Restaurants with conversations turned to volume level 11, constant gridlock with blaring horns, flashing lights at rock concerts — it’s hard to avoid experiencing sensory overload every time we leave our homes. Big breath in and blow out slow. It’s even harder to avoid meltdowns for children and adults who are on the autism spectrum or for other people with sensory processing issues. Differences in response to stimuli are known as neurodiversity. The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures decided to

Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

SECTION TWO

POLICE BEAT

Suspects apprehended for parked vehicle robbery in Hancock Park WILSHIRE DIVISION ROBBERY SOLVED: A woman was followed from the Western Avenue (at Third Street) post office to her home on the 300 block of Muirfield Road mid-afternoon on May 12. While getting her young children out of their car seats, she was approached by a Black male who aimed a gun at her and demanded her watch. The suspect took the watch and escaped in a black BMW driven by a second suspect, a white female. The case was assigned to the robbery-homicide division of LAPD which located and arrested the suspects. Both are currently in jail. ROBBERY: The corner of First Street and Larchmont Boulevard was the site of an

argument May 9 at 3 p.m. between a man and a woman who had been dating for a couple of months. The argument got heated, and the man demanded money from the woman. He grabbed her, and there was a struggle between the two. He eventually got her money and fled the scene. OLYMPIC DIVISION BURGLARY: A home in the 200 block of North Ridgewood Place was the scene of a robbery on May 3 at 1:30 p.m. Two suspects entered the home by smashing the rear patio window. The suspects peppersprayed two dogs in the home and ransacked a bedroom, stealing jewelry, money and a coin collection. ROBBERY: Two male sus-

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pects in their 20s were walking near Clinton Street and St. Andrews Place on May 14 in the afternoon when they started talking to a 23-yearold dog owner who was walking his dog off leash. The suspects were conversing with the dog owner and then started petting the dog, a brown dachshund. One of the suspects pushed the owner to the ground. At that moment, the other suspect picked up the dog. Both suspects then hopped on scooters while

holding the dog and yelled, “Come get your dog!” HOT PROWL BURGLARIES: A male suspect in his late 20s entered a multi-unit dwelling while some victims were sleeping. When another victim returned home, the suspect fled with a wallet and keys. This occurred between 11:30 p.m. on May 20 and 2:30 a.m. on May 21 on the 300 block of North Wilton Place. At another multi-unit dwelling, this one on the 5100 block of West Maplewood Avenue, a

By Nona Sue Friedman “With so much foot traffic on Larchmont Boulevard, it’s the perfect place to host Coffee with a Cop,” said LAPD Wilshire Division’s Senior Lead Officer (SLO) Dave Cordova. According to Cordova, who oversees Larchmont Boulevard as part of his beat, monthly Coffee with a Cop is an informal gathering where residents can get to know their officers and vice versa. There aren’t any speeches or statistics, just conversation and questions answered. Most recently, this event took place on May 24 at Peet’s Coffee, 124 N. Larchmont Blvd. Starbuck’s on Larchmont Boulevard is where the gathering is often held. But this month, SLO Cordova reached out to Peet’s, and manager Angie Jaco jumped at the opportunity to host. She said that many of her regular customers were so happy and excited to have the police come for coffee. Some even arrived early while others called to confirm it was still taking place. Jaco said, “It’s nice being part of the community that LAPD cares for. I love it.”

suspect entered the apartment on May 20 at about 4 a.m. The suspect stole money, a wallet and a cell phone. GRAND THEFTS AUTO: Multiple cars were stolen this month … but one was located. A Honda Civic was stolen from the driveway of a home on the 400 block of North Wilton Place sometime between 10 p.m. on May 18 and 5 a.m. on May 19. This vehicle was later found in the northeast area of Los Angeles on May 19. Two white Mercedes-Benz vehicles were stolen from the garage of a residence on the 300 block of Westminster Avenue. Both thefts occurred between 6:30 p.m. on May 20 and 4 p.m. on May 21. A black Toyota Corolla was taken from the street on the 400 block of South Manhattan Place between 4 p.m. on May 13 and 6 p.m. on May 14.

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Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

SECTION TWO

Burroughs to reroute cars to Wilshire to help solve congestion front of crowded traffic and parents and friends stopping and swinging open their car doors to talk with friends or talk on their cell phones. The promised rerouting is part of a multi-million dollar makeover of Burroughs. Scott Singletary, facility development manager at LAUSD, said the school is in the process of modernization, which included a review of the project pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The project is due for completion in 2027 at a cost of $266 million. Singletary says it does not add capacity to the school, although current capacity is more than the number of students for which the school initially was designed. To alleviate the traffic congestion on McCadden, Singletary says that the modernization will move the school administrators’ parking access on McCadden, which includes 100 cars, to Wilshire Boulevard, and LAUSD school

Neighbors unite after homes are burglarized

by Nona Sue Friedman When your next-door neighbor is burglarized, the crime statistics become real. Hearing in detail what was stolen, rummaged through and damaged and how the criminal entered the home, you are moved to action. Unfortunately, there were two houses very close to each other on the 200 block of North Ridgewood Place that recently were burglarized by the same crew in broad daylight. The Ridgewood victims and their neighbors didn’t want this to happen again, so they organized a block meeting where everyone listened to the two victims’ similar experi-

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ences. The neighbors decided that they needed to become a more cohesive group to do their best to prevent any future invasions. The group exchanged phone numbers and email addresses for disseminating safety information and to check in with neighbors if anyone sees anything out of the ordinary. Members vowed to keep a more careful eye on people and cars coming and going. They are working on getting neighborhood watch signs for each of their yards to show neighborly unification. The only silver lining to this criminal activity is getting to know your neighbors better.

bus access will also be moved to the Wilshire thoroughfare in the fall of 2022. Sgt. Danny Eun, supervisor, Community Traffic Safety Unit of LAPD’s West Traffic Division, says the school has known about the traffic problems on McCadden for a while and works with the school staff in trying to resolve the effects of the traffic from student pick-ups and drop-offs. Sgt. Eun says there is “off-and-on” car line “chaos” at Burroughs and that he has looked at possible solutions. According to Sgt. Eun, the Community Traffic Safety Unit has focused on three approaches for a possible solution: (1) Traffic enforcement, which has not been effective; (2) Engineering: The streets are too narrow, and cannot be widened when a residential environment prevails; and (3) Education, which has had limited effectiveness. The Safety Unit has talked to parents about the dangers of the car line traffic, but it appears

SCHOOL BUS faces north in the southbound lane of McCadden Place in May; northbound lane is completely double-parked.

there is no immediate solution to the problem, Eun said. Dr. Steven Martinez, Burroughs Middle School principal, says he has been aware of the problem and is doing something about it by playing an active role in the safety and well-being of the neighborhood. He has been reaching

out to the school’s neighbors and has sent letters to parents. In addition, the school has held meetings with families showing videos confirming the dangerous traffic congestion on McCadden. The school’s staff will continue to monitor the car lines every day to reinforce safety measures, he added.

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By Steven Rosenthal The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) now is making plans to alleviate traffic congestion at John Burroughs Middle School on the narrow residential street McCadden Place in Hancock Park. The plan is to reroute school buses and administrative vehicles from parking access points on McCadden to a Wilshire Boulevard area. At present during school days, the residents living on McCadden and other drivers must fight traffic dangers posed by the drop-off and pick-up car line on the west side of the school facility. Sometimes a car or delivery van even goes the wrong way to get around the jam during student drop-offs until the congestion tapers off when classes begin. But it starts up again in the afternoon when students are being picked up to return home. Every weekday is a scene of wrong-way drivers, student pedestrians crossing in

Larchmont Chronicle

JUNE 2022

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