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Los Feliz Ledger
Vol 5, No. 1
Serving the Greater Los Feliz, Silver Lake & Hollywood Hills Area | Distribution 34,500
Discord of the Board
Council Put On Notice For Absences
Tempers Flare at June GGPNC Meeting
By Heather Downie Ledger Contributing Writer ATWATER VILLAGE—The Atwater Village Neighborhood Council (AVNC) sent a clear message recently to its frequently absent members: “miss five meetings and you’re out.” On May 6th, the AVNC formally approved a bylaw change to curb what some called, “out-of-control absenteeism.” According to the new bylaw, any member that fails to attend five regularly scheduled meetings within a council year will be removed. “This definitely needed to happen,” said Luis Lopez, a member of the board and owner of Luis Lopez Automotive in Atwater Village. “Absenteeism was too high.” In fact, meeting skipping has been such a problem that votes at two monthly meetings this year couldn’t happen because there wasn’t a quorum. In the past, removing chronically absent board members had been tough. It required gathering 100 signatures and a majority vote. Since January, Fernando Dejo-Grundy has missed five meetings. Lane Sandman has skipped four. Amador Solis and Lenore Solis have failed to attend three. So far, the bylaw change appears to have worked. Members are showing up. The change in position in absenteeism comes at a time see COUNCIL page 6
By Jessica Ogilvie Ledger Contributing Writer
The American Cancer Society’s “Relay for Life” kicked off with a lap around Mulholland Fountain by cancer survivors. Participants, including many from the Los Feliz and Silver Lake areas, walked for 24 hours and raised over $35,000 to support cancer research. Photo credit: Michelle Kunz
Marshall’s Zimmer Takes Seat on LAUSD Board By Kimberly Gomez, Ledger Contributing Writer LOS FELIZ—When Steve Zimmer takes a seat for the 4th district of the Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education this month he’ll be riding a wave of support from the Mayor, city council members, the teacher’s union as well as parents and students. Comfortable representing all, Zimmer said he’s learned over his 17 years as a teacher and counselor at John Marshall High School that when it comes to putting kids first in education everyone needs to be at the table. “I’ve seen the positive that can happen in public educa-
tion when there are partnerships and how dangerous it is when people work in conflict with each other,” he said. A resident of Hollywood, Zimmer will represent one of the most diverse LAUSD dis-
tricts which runs from Hollywood in the east to the southwest San Fernando Valley and down into Westchester near the airport. “It will serve us well to have somebody who knows these neighborhoods well and who understands the kind of beat and rhythm life has in this part of Los Angeles,” said Zimmer. Zimmer, who conjures strong parallels to David Tokofsky—a former teacher at Marshall who became a LAUSD board member— said he’ll follow the footsteps see ZIMMER page 9
LOS FELIZ—On the second floor of the Hillhurst Citibank on Wednesday, June 17th, a calm, civilized meeting began at 7:00 p.m. By midnight, it had escalated into a shouting match, as tempers flared and simmering disagreements bubbled to the surface. The Greater Griffith Park Neighborhood Council (GGPNC), there for their monthly board meeting, was erupting in turmoil. The meetings have not always been so contentious, according to several sources on the board. Rather, tension has steadily escalated since the see GGPNC page 10
BID Acts on Proposed Reforms By Jessica Ogilvie Ledger Contributing Writer LOS FELIZ—The board of the Los Feliz BID, which recently came under scrutiny by some members of the local business community, has begun to consider a list of proposed reforms brought to its attention last month by the protest group, Get Rid of the BID. The board’s administration committee, chaired by Mark Ciancuilli, began reviewing the proposed reforms on June 8th see BID REFORMS page 16
Meet You At “Hel-Mel”
[profile]
Going for Brouge
By Chris H. Sieroty, Ledger Contributing Writer
By Jessica Ogilvie, Ledger Contributing Writer Editor’s Note: It seems everywhere you go in Los Feliz these days, people are talking about Tomas O’Grady. From his recent attempts to challenge— and change—the way our local neighborhood council forms itself to helping spearhead a major volunteer overhaul at our local middle school, he just seems to be everywhere all at once. A little bit about the man behind the headlines.
July 2009
The O’Grady family. Photo credit: Courtesy of Tomas O’Grady
LOS FELIZ—The 42-year-old man who opens the gate to a large Los Feliz home might, if not for the hint of gray in his beard, be easily mistaken for an enthusiastic college student. Dressed in an old t-shirt and worn-out jeans, Tomas
O’Grady’s shaggy brown hair almost covers his eyes as he strides across the lawn and gestures to his left. “I’m still working on installing some of the solar panels,” he says, indicating his current home imsee O’GRADY page 4
EAST HOLLYWOOD— First, there was a Hollywood Boulevard. Now, there’s Hel-Mel. Jenette’s Bras, Eyetailor and Early California Antiques are three new stores that have opened recently in the once tired area off Melrose Avenue near Heliotrope Drive. Known as Hel-Mel, the area is a Hel-Mel’s “Scoop” provides refreshing summer four-square block shop- treats for kids of all ages. Photo credit: Marie Chao ping district hidden near high-end under things for the Los Angeles City College. well-endowed woman—said a Jenette Goldstein—Virgil surprising amount of her cusVillage resident and co-owner see Hel-Mel page 5 of Jenette’s Bras, which sells
Los Feliz Ledger [letter from the publisher] This is the last time I can write as a parent of a child at Thomas Starr King Middle School. I have used this space, occasionally; to tout the exemplary education my son has received there. Griffin is now moving on to high school—well prepared, alert to new ideas and problem solving methods and extremely versed in translating what he has learned into art and technology. I asked Griffin what he would recommend I write about his school. While every teacher he has had has been outstanding, he wanted me to use this space to publicly thank animation teacher, Kirk Palayan. The effects of Mr. Palayan’s strong relationships with the film industry are evident the moment you walk into his classroom. Studios have donated props from such movies as Harry Potter and Star Wars. Immediately, it’s an exciting environment in which to learn. But most of all, it’s Mr. Palayan’s infectious enthusiasm—even after suffering a major cut to his forehead last year (what a scar that is!)— that has motivated my son. A few years back, Mr. Palayan reached out to the Vista Theater. Would it be possible to have his student’s culminating work screened there? The answer from theater owner Lance Alspaugh was a resounding yes. It’s an amazing thing to see your child’s “ImmigrationEllis Island,” documentary on the big screen, even if it is on a very early Sunday morning. But according to Griffin, there’s more: Mr. Palayan apparently hosts various clubs at lunch; takes his students to premiere openings of major films and even organized something called “Roswell Week,” (where a film made by
Pick up the
Los Feliz Ledger at dozens of locations:
LOS FELIZ Citibank 1965 Hillhurst Avenue Dresden Restaurant 1760 N. Vermont Avenue House of Pies 1869 N. Vermont Louise’s Trattoria 4500 Los Feliz Blvd. Los Feliz Public Library 1874 Hillhurst Avenue Magnet Student of the Year, Griffin Cohen, with King Magnet math teacher Lily Moayeri.
the Extra-terrestrialites, one of Mr. Palayans’ clubs was shown, and activities such as the “build-your-own alien” were available for students). I wish I could thank every teacher. I must also mention math teacher Lily Moayeri who tutored Griffin (and others) for weeks during her lunch hour as they prepared for various placement exams.
And finally, Alice Hayward—what can you say about a woman so dedicated to the students she serves she still took them on a Europe trip during track break, regardless of a broken foot. We hate to see you go, Ms. Hayward—but I, personally, can think of no other better to try to fill your shoes, than Ivanhoe’s own Carlos Hernandez (see story, page 8).
Los Feliz 3 Theaters 1822 N. Vermont Newsstand Vermont and Melbourne Palermo 1858 N. Vermont Skylight Books 1818 N. Vermont
SILVER LAKE Casita del Campo 1920 Hyperion Ave Silver Lake Chamber of Commerce 1724 W. Silver Lake Drive
Los Feliz Ledger FOUNDED 2005 Delievered the last Thursday of each month to 34,500 homes and businesses in the Los Feliz, Silver Lake and Hollywood Hills communities.
PUBLISHER/EDITOR Allison B. Cohen
ADVERTISING SALES Olga Measures Betsy Hall
GRAPHIC DESIGN & LAYOUT Tiffany Sims
OFFICE ASSISTANT Griffin O. Cohen
Labeler, Stamper and Tearsheet Manager Charles “Chunny” Cohen
Story ideas, submissions, advertising rates & inquiries contact: Allison Cohen 4459 Avocado St. Los Angeles, CA 90027 Phone: 323-667-9897 Fax: 323-667-1816 acohen@losfelizledger.com www. losfelizledger.com
Corrections: In last month’s edition (“The Summer Buzz from Silver Lake”) we listed Ben Guzman’s website incorrectly. It should be: www.oldtimeisagoodtime.com In our “Summer Camp Guide” (April 2009) we provide incorrect dates for the Art Center for Kids Summer Workshops. The workshops are July 6th through August 14th. Last month’s theater review gave an incorrect phone number for Sam Shepard’s “True West” at the Hyperion/Lyric Theatre. The play runs through July 25th. The correct number for reservations is (323) 540-0935 or www.doghousetheatre.com.
Page 2
www.losfelizledger.com
July 2009
Los Feliz Ledger [roving reporter]
Budget Cuts Reported by Jennifer Haning LAUSD has cut summer school programs this year, a decision that directly affects local students and families. How are you impacted, and what will you do this summer instead? “The decision has definitely affected my summer plans. All of the arts programs were cut, so unfortunately every program I had wanted to enroll in was cancelled.” – Lily Sassone, student, Los Feliz
“I attend a private school so I guess I’m not as directly affected as those who attend public school. But, a lot of my friends go to public schools and I’ve seen how all the program cuts have affected their families. It’s hard to see them dealing with that.” – Flannery Huntoon, student, Los Feliz
“I have friends who were professors in the physics and English departments at LACC who are now out of work. So, the decision didn’t have a huge impact on me directly, but it hit my friends really hard.” – Aaron Sterling, Resident, Silver Lake
[ POLICE & FIRE BLOTTER JULY 2009 ]
Compiled by Jennifer Haning Robbery: Burglary: Theft from Vehicle: Grand Theft Auto: Personal/Other Theft:
2 3 13 6 3
Burglary: May 23rd, 11:00 a.m. on the 1600 block of N. Alexandria Ave. Suspect entered victim’s residence and removed material goods. Suspect fled location with property. Burglary: May 27th, 4:30 p.m. at 1837 N. Alexandria Ave. Suspects entered apartment building through a ground-level rear entry. One apartment on the 2nd floor was burglarized; suspects entered and removed property. Investigators are still searching for witnesses. Attempt burglary: May 27th, 5:00 p.m. at 1837 N. Alexandria Ave. Suspects entered
July 2009
apartment building through a ground-level rear entry and attempted breaking and entering a residence on the 3rd floor. Suspects were unable to enter through front door and fled. Investigators are still searching for witnesses to this crime. Homicide arrest: June 10th, double homicide suspect captured during late evening hours. Suspect arrested and charged with two counts of murder for the gang-related shootings at Piedmont Park (Avenue 61 and Figueroa Street) that occurred in March. Brush Fire: Station 82, May 20th, 6:02 p.m. at northbound 101 freeway and Highland Avenue. Fifty-four firefighters needed to knock down fire in 14 minutes. Fire was contained to grass along the freeway.
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Pot Outlets to Close ATWATER VILLAGE—The Los Angeles City Council has voted to deny the business license applications to Glendale Blvd.’s L.A. Collective, Friendly Collective and Global Meds Collective medical marijuana dispensaries. Two other outlets—set to open this month—have also withdrawn their applications. While City Council President and area representative Eric Garcetti supported California’s 1996 decision to approve medical marijuana, he supports the city council’s decision to deny the local applications. “We’d heard from a lot of our Atwater constituents about having so many dispensaries clustered together, in addition to reports of residents smoking right outside of the dispensaries,” said Julie Wong, a Garcetti spokeswoman.
In 2007, the city council passed a moratorium on new dispensaries to curb their proliferation. A number opened despite the ban by taking advantage of a “hardship exemption” loophole,” meaning the business could open while the application was being considered.
“I don’t agree with the decision to cut after-school and summer programs. Students need these programs in order to learn and be prepared for the future. As a product of public education, I feel that cutting summer programs makes it more difficult for kids and young adults to become well-educated.” – Sarah Jeffers, Resident, Los Feliz
“Beastly Ball” Raises $1.2 Million GRIFFITH PARK—The Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA) raised more than $1.2 million at their 39th annual “Beastly Ball” in June. GLAZA Trustee Laura Z. Wasserman was honored at the event. More than 900 guests enjoyed the evening walking the zoo’s grounds after hours sampling food from restau-
rants throughout Los Angeles. The “Beastly Ball” has been called “one of the best parties in Los Angeles.” The evening was attended by, among others, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Los Angeles city councilmembers Eric Garcetti and Tom LaBonge and California Assemblymember Paul Krekorian.
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Los Feliz Ledger O’GRADY from page 1
provement venture, a series of panels that will heat the pool and spa. Listening to O’Grady talk about his interests, his work and his hobbies, it’s difficult to imagine him in any other state than the one he’s currently in—completely occupied with projects that range from the design and upkeep of his home, to his position as Treasurer for the Greater Griffith Park Neighborhood Council (GGPNC). Originally from Galway, Ireland, O’Grady moved to the U.S. at the age of 23 with $80 in his pocket, no family in the states, and little by way of a plan. “I didn’t do well in school,” he says, “but in the U.S., if you were hard-working and passionate enough, you could
have a chance.” O’Grady quickly found his chance by getting a job with a real estate developer on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. He learned the trade, and after a year, bought condominiums in what would eventually become real estate gold: Hoboken, New Jersey. Together with his girlfriend, Justine—who would later become his wife— they renovated the buildings “with our own two hands,” and began to sell them off. “I have no illusions about that,” he says, referencing the unanticipated migration of hipsters and yuppies alike to Hoboken in the 1990s. “We were in the right place at the right time.” After living there for six years, O’Grady moved his family across the country to Los Feliz. His real estate in-
vestments currently remain his primary source of income. In other words, he does not have a traditional day job. This allows him the flexibility to pursue his real passion: music. “I’m a singer/songwriter,” he says. A performer since college, Tomas still plays around Los Angeles. In fact, he adds in true L.A. form, “I’ll have an album coming out soon.” ******* On this particular evening, the O’Grady clan is only partially present for dinner. Eireann, 10, is next door at a friend’s house. Lauren, 8, and Ryan, 5, sit at the dinner table flanked by pint-sized schoolmates, and sporting the perpetually wet hair that marks a childhood summer. Justine O’Grady, 39, nurses Dylan, 3 months.
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If the house seems made to accommodate the family, it’s because it was. Knowing that they would stay in Los Feliz once settled, Tomas and Justine set out to build their dream home from the ground up. Painted white to reflect the heat, the home took five years to construct and is modeled after old Southern plantations, complete with columns that would have made Scarlett O’Hara swoon. “I’m a sucker for plantation architecture,” says Tomas. “My friends want to know when I’m getting columns in my car.” The house, he goes on, is nearly completely green. Solar panels provide heat, rainwater is directed back into the lawn and garden, and a metal roof and industrial fan draw in cool air. His electric bill, he says, averages just $50 a month. “I’m very proud of this house,” says Tomas. “I put my heart and soul into it.” Tomas hesitates to consider whether his commitment to sustainable living and to “getting his hands dirty” is the result of growing up on a farm in Ireland. “Maybe I got a little of that from my father. But,” he says, “you should be proud of the way you behave.” see O’GRADY page 8
GGPNC Accepting Applications The Greater Griffith Park Neighborhood Council is seeking candidates for nine available appointed positions representing business, education, recreation and religion. Four “At Large” positions are also open. The application deadline is Aug. 31st, followed by a “Meet the Candidates” special board meeting, Sat., Sept. 12th. New appointees will be selected at the GGPNC’s Tues., Sept. 15th board meeting. The public is invited to both events. For applications: www. ggpnc.org; GGPNC, P.O. Box 27003, L.A., CA 90027; via email GGPNC@GGPNC.org or calling (323) 908-6054.
“Summer Nights” in Atwater Village ATWATER VILLAGE—July 23rd will be the first “Summer Nights on the Boulevard” event sponsored by the Atwater Village Chamber of Commerce. Shops, galleries and restaurants are being encouraged to stay open late–at least until 9 p.m. For information, call: (323) 634-2535.
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323.667.0072
Making Los Angeles a better place through community service and friendship.
Photos courtesy of Mia Lehrer and Associates
Wednesdays, 7:00 to 9:00 a.m.
Before
After
First-time visitors – FREE (normally $6.00) Full buffet breakfast Songs – Movement – Interesting Speakers – Musical Entertainment July 8 - “Overcoming Obstacles – The Unrecables – Disabled Sports USA” Helen de Berard, Speaker Music by the Observatory Orchestra
Making a Difference in Silver Lake
Other interesting programs each week
for over 20 years
Friendship Hall 3201 Riverside Drive
Committee to Save Silver Lake’s Reservoirs
(1/4 mile south of Los Feliz Blvd.)
Soon to be: Silver Lake Reservoirs Conservancy
Page 4
COMMUNITY NEWS
(323) 662-1191
www.losfelizledger.com BreakfastClub_July09.indd 1
July 2009 6/29/09 9:11:52 AM
Los Feliz Ledger devoted to the urban cyclist— and The Bicycle Kitchen, a tomers travel from West Los non profit at 706 N. HeliotroAngeles and even far-flung phe that provides volunteers to Calabasas. teach others how to fix their “They are so happy that own wheels. The only cost is a there is store here that caters to donation of $7 an hour. their needs,” she said. There are also high end For Goldstein, to take antiques. advantage now of an up-andEric Berg opened Early coming area—with lower California Antiques in April rents, say compared to nearby after seven years of selling Vermont or Hillhurst aveantiques and art in Pasadena. nues—just made sense. His shop, at 4307 Melrose “This is my neighborAve., is a gallery of 19th and hood, my home,” she said. early 20th Century California art, furniture, pottery and photographs. “There is nothing in my store that is less than 100 years old,” said Berg, who is also a wardrobe stylist for Erin Gilbride takes a wild ride at the Orange 20 Bike Shop movies and televiin Hel-Mel. Photo credit: Marie Chao sion shows. “I started collecting photographs and “The response has been really pottery years ago and began favorable.” reselling them as a hobby.” The area is also home to Both Berg and Goldstein Scoops, at 712 N. Heliotrope are betting that they’ll benefit Dr., which offers four vegan from the area’s new growth flavors of ice cream and gelato and development. daily, along with its signature “This is a neat little area,” Guiness Chocolate gelato, said Berg. “A woman found made with Guiness Beer. me online and told me that she Additionally, Hel-Mel has had never driven this far east become ground zero in the to purchase antiques.” Los Angeles cycling universe, Berg said the customer is thanks to Orange 20—a store Hel-Mel from page 1
July 2009
www.losfelizledger.com
now a regular. “It’s a little village,” he said. “There is a lot of history here from the historic Jensen’s
Melrose Theatre (now the Ukrainian Culture Center) to The Bicycle Kitchen. But unlike other areas of Los Angeles
that have changed in recent years, business owners here are [devoted] to keeping the neighborhood unique.”
COMMUNITY NEWS
Page 5
Los Feliz Ledger [city council president eric garcetti]
Common Sense Choices for Zoning Medicinal Marijuana Dispensaries By Eric Garcetti In June, the City Council officially approved my efforts to deny permits for several medicinal marijuana dispensaries in Atwater Village. I—like the majority of California voters who passed Proposition 215—support allowing doctors to prescribe medicinal marijuana for their patients’ legitimate health needs. However, for the last eight years, I have been working in partnership with local residents and businesses to improve our neighborhoods, and threatening those efforts is the proliferation of medicinal marijuana dispensaries that do
not play by the rules. In Atwater Village, neighborhood residents had growing concerns about the numerous dispensaries that have cropped up along Glendale Blvd. Neighbors have complained about marijuana users smoking right outside the dispensary. Earlier this year, two people were shot near one of the proposed dispensary locations. Currently, the City of Los Angeles has a temporary moratorium on new medicinal marijuana dispensaries while we develop a strong permanent ordinance that will give the City the ability to stop rogue operators. In the meantime, dispensary owners have had the ability to apply for a “hardship exemption” from
the moratorium so that they can open and operate. In June, five hardship exemption applications for Atwater Village dispensaries came before the City Council. All five businesses were within a few blocks of each other— making marijuana dispensaries more prevalent than Starbucks in that area. None of the Atwater Village owners received exemptions. In the coming months, the City of Los Angeles will continue reviewing hardship exemptions on a case-by-case basis. We recently removed the hardship exemption clause from the moratorium to stem the tide of new businesses trying to take advantage of this loophole. We will also work on completing the permanent policy that with will help us better locate legitimate dispensaries and allow us to shut down irresponsible businesses. [greetings from tom]
Mary Rodriguez Announced as Deputy By Tom LaBonge, Los Angeles City Councilmember Over the past couple of years, I’ve been fortunate that Field Deputy Jullian Harris-Calvin has been representing me in the Los Feliz/Silver Lake area. She has done such a great job that, as of July 1, we’re promoting her
to Director of Administration. I want to publicly thank Jullian for organizing monthly clean-ups in Griffith Park and coordinating many aspects of the park restoration in the wake of the fire of May 2007. I also want to introduce and welcome Mary Rodriguez as our new field deputy for Los Feliz and Silver Lake. Many of you know Mary already from her great work as my Education Deputy and as a long-time activist in this community. Mary and her husband Van Carlson moved to the Los Feliz area 30 years ago. She worked as a television news editor for KABC until 1984. When their children, Max and Ruby, were of school age, Mary began volunteering in each of the schools they attended: the LA Family Pre-school, Franklin Avenue Elementary, Thomas Starr King Middle School and John Marshall High School. She has organized Neighborhood Watch Programs for Los Feliz and Franklin Hills and worked closely with the LAPD Senior Lead Officers and neighborhood block captains. She served as the Council District 4 appointee to the President’s Joint Commission on LAUSD Governance from 2005-06, and began consulting my office part-time on school issues in 2007. In August 2008, Mary became the Council Office’s full-time Education Deputy working with all of the CD4 schools. I hope you’ll welcome Mary to her new, expanded role in my office. She will con-
tinue working with schools because she believes that the schools are the heart of the community. But, now she will act as the liaison between the Council Office and the community on issues relating to parks, public safety, fire issues, street services, sanitation and transit and parking. We’re all lucky to have her in this job. COUNCIL from page 1
when the board, last May, also filled three vacant positions. The board is now at capacity with 17 members. The new board members are: Lara Pranger, a software business analyst who has lived in Atwater for over a year. Pranger joins the board as its second non-profit representative and a co-founder of the Friends of Atwater Elementary. The AVNC’s newest Central Atwater Village representative is Robert Smith, a recent Atwater transplant who works as the head of post-production for Live Nation Studios. And the organization’s latest North Atwater Village representative is Alex Ventura. “I see this neighborhood as I see the home I bought,” Ventura told the Atwater Village News Blog. “It is classic Los Angeles—beautiful, charming and in need of TLC.”
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POLITICS
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July 2009
Los Feliz Ledger [franklin avenue elementary]
Aquarium Visit More than the Average Field Trip By Brigit Veranian, 4th grade Near the end of the school year, 30 students from our school were invited to the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific. The event was not only an educational field trip, but the occasion for our school to receive an award for being a 2009 Academic Achievement School by the California Department of Education. The Title 1 award we received is only given to schools that have shown the most improvement in Language Arts and Math over the last two years. My experience at the Aquarium was great. I saw animals that I never knew about such as the pregnant sea horse and I was amazed at how starfish come in different shapes and sizes. The one thing that I will remember as so beautiful was the neon colors of all of the fish. After our visit, we were given a great barbeque lunch at which time the students at Franklin started to scream when they called our school name to present us with the award. This trip will be a memorable one for years to come.
Zoo Volunteer Programs
“Neighbor Night” at the Greek
GRIFFITH PARK—The Los Angeles Zoo has volunteer opportunities for high school aged children as well as for docents. A prospective general volunteer information meeting, for ages 16 and up, will be Sat., July 11th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additionally, an “Eco Corps” information meeting for volunteers entering grades 9 through 11, will be Sat. July 18th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Finally, a prospective docent information meeting, for adults, will be Sat. July 25th from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon. All meetings are at the zoo’s Witherbee Auditorium.
GRIFFITH PARK—In an effort to show appreciation of the neighborhood near the Greek Theater, the venue will host “Neighbor Night,” Fri., July 10th from 6:15 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. followed by a performance by Andrew Bird. The event is free and open to all Los Feliz Ledger readers. Space is limited. RSVP to Bob Diaz at (323) 644-5088 by July 8th, 2009 at 6:00 P.M. The Greek will also host a “Coffee Hour,” Thurs. July 30th at 7 p.m. Rena Wasserman, the general manager of the Greek Theatre, established these gatherings to meet and have dialogue with the Greek’s neighbors.
More info: www.lazoo.org in the “Volunteers” section or call (323) 644-4703 or volunteers@lazoo.org.
Honoring the Seavers On June 8th, 2009, Pilgrim School, at its 50th anniversary commencement ceremony, honored Frank and Blanche Seaver. Frank Seaver’s first philanthropic gesture, while still a student there, was to name Pomona College as beneficiary on his life insurance policy. He also donated the Malibu campus to Pepperdine University, elevating Pepperdine from a downtown city college to one of the top universities in the United States. The Seavers also donated funding for the advancement of Pilgrim School, with the creation of the Seaver Building, which currently houses the elementary school, as well as secondary science, mathematics, history, humanities and technology classrooms. The Seavers regularly attended the First Congregational Church of Los Angeles, which housed the original Pilgrim School. July 2009
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SCHOOL NEWS
Page 7
Los Feliz Ledger
King Has A New Magnet Coordinator By Kimberly Gomez, Ledger Contributing Writer here—this is a high-functioning environment already.” Hernandez is looking to continue the excellence that Hayward has carefully nurtured while helping the magnet become more well-known as a first rate public school option for families.
SILVER LAKE—Veteran teacher Carlos Hernandez will take over as coordinator of the Gifted/High Ability/Technology/Arts Magnet Program at Thomas Starr King Middle School in the fall. A graduate of Occidental College in 1996, Hernandez has taught in the Los Angeles Unified School District for 13 years at Eagle Rock and Ivanhoe Elementary schools. He pioneered the first 1 to 1 computer laptop program in the district at Ivanhoe as well as coordinated the English Learner program there. “Starting that 1 to 1 Technology program is one of the most rewarding things that I’ve been able to do as a teacher,” he said. “I was fortunate that it was something that was really hands on and it couldn’t have happened without the parent support community.” For the past year he has
Carlos Hernandez
also split his time with Thomas Starr King Middle School as their 1 to 1 Technology Coordinator, which he says made it easier to step in when he was approached by then coordinator, Alice Hayward to apply for the magnet job. “The neat thing about coming in and working with the magnet is it’s very much like Ivanhoe with the same amount of kids and a lot of art and technology going on,” said Hernandez. “There is a lot of great teaching happening
Alice Hayward
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Page 8
SCHOOL NEWS
King Magnet Announces Top Students Teachers and administrators of Thomas Starr King’s Gifted/High Ability/Technology/Arts Magnet announced the program’s most outstanding 8th grade students in June. Griffin Cohen, received “Magnet Student of the Year.” Cohen, 14, will attend Loyola High School in the fall. Other winners by depart-
ment were: Vicki Guan, English; Rayna Lyn Leonor, math (geometry); Dominic Rolda Rodriquez, math (albegra); Stephan Dzhuryan, history; Gustavo Sosa, science; Angelea Pachanian and Griffin Cohen, physical education; Jacob Messex, animation; Angela Pachanian, journalism; Rayna Leonor and Raphael De Los Santos, music.
O’GRADY from page 4
would be “more democratic” if more members were elected, not chosen by board members themselves. Laura Howe, a board member, said she is frustrated over accusations that Tomas has made about board cronyism and the time that has been spent discussing his actions. “There are procedures for doing things,” she said, “and to erroneously accuse people of misdoings is a waste of time.” And yet, Tomas remains optimistic. “It’s cheesy, isn’t it?” Tomas says. “I’m cheerful about the prospects of the U.S. I still believe that things can be better, things can change.” The O’Gradys have a strong sense of putting down roots, and with everything they’re doing to better their own living situation, from the house to the neighborhood and beyond, they have no intention of leaving their adopted home. “I’m going to have my wake here,” O’Grady says, looking around at the house he built. “I hope you can come.”
And indeed, this commitment to personal responsibility has led O’Grady to create a name for himself, almost inadvertently, around the neighborhood. From his involvement at the Neighborhood Nursery School, Franklin Elementary and King Middle School, and as the treasurer of the GGPNC, O’Grady has developed a reputation for saying what’s on his mind and acting in accordance with what he believes. He is well aware of the fact that his opinions aren’t always the most popular, but the dissent leaves him unfazed. “My whole point in joining the GGPNC was to direct taxpayer money to more worthy causes,” he says. Launching into the details of a proposal he made recently to the board, he sums up the end result with a smirk. “It was summarily dismissed.” In fact, if rolling eyes are any clue, Tomas has alienated himself from many members of the board mostly over his assertion that the GGPNC
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July 2009
Los Feliz Ledger Zimmer from page 1
of outgoing member Marlene Canter, in her school nutrition programs, her vision towards reform-minded schools within the school district and her engagement with parents. “We do have to support, nurture and listen to parents who have a choice about whether they are going to send their kids to public school,” said Zimmer. “I seek the day when all schools are performing at the level that no matter where you are living you would make that choice positively.” At Marshall, Zimmer founded the Comprehensive Student Support Center to provide health services to students and their families. As Elysian Valley United’s family Magnet from page 8
nationally she is also a writer who has been published in a dozen anthologies. “My view of the magnet program has been to produce classical scholars with 21st century skills,” said Hayward. “We want them to be great thinkers and what we can do is teach them skills and analysis and evaluation for whatever their work lives may be.” Hayward said the Los Fe-
July 2009
services director, he brought counseling and intervention services to families in need. It is one of his goals to have similar facilities housed at every high school and middle and elementary schools in his district. As a school board member, Zimmer said he will focus on teacher recruitment and training and will work to ensure students feel safe at school and have safe passages to and from school. “The sooner we look at schools in a community-based way and [look at the ] community from an education lens… we [will] get towards… the reason why I am doing this which is to be a part of lasting change and transformation.” liz Improvement Association has been instrumental over the years helping the magnet program grow into its own “adolescence.” “What I’ve achieved I’ve achieved through passion because I think people can see it and believe it,” said Hayward. “It’s not just talk.” Students and staff may still see more of Hayward around campus in the upcoming year. She has applied to be a substitute teacher at the magnet.
www.losfelizledger.com
[family matters]
Au Revoir, Elementary School By Kristen Taylor Two weeks ago my little boy got braces and outgrew kid’s sized shoes. Last week he graduated from elementary school. Wait! Don’t stop reading! This isn’t going to be one of those mushy “they grow up so fast” essays. Except for buying adult shoes that come with adult prices, I’m quite happy to see my kids grow up, because I’ve loved every stage. The age that your children are right now is always the best one, isn’t it? But there are some things about elementary school I will definitely miss. Macaroni necklaces and Valentines are things of the past, as is that one-room schoolhouse feeling that a really good teacher can conjure. The kids have, for the most part, been together since kindergarten, and they’ve formed a tight family unit. They take care of each other in surprising ways, with a consideration not always seen with their actual siblings. They know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and while that familiarity can foster scheming and slights in middle school, in elementary
school the kids were happy to laud each other’s triumphs and console each other’s slip-ups. Of course, there are also things endemic to elementary school that I am happy to put behind us. While my son’s class wasn’t particularly divided, I know that Boys vs. Girls is practically a holy war in a lot of primary grades. And can I just say that I am thrilled to never have to see a
times table flashcard ever again? I loved helping my son learn how to read because the payoff was huge: books to be devoured for days and years. Let’s just say that the motivation for learning multiplication tables—getting to do long division—wasn’t nearly as enticing for either of us. Congratulations elementary school graduates. Hello middle school.
SCHOOL NEWS
Page 9
Los Feliz Ledger GGPNC from page 1
seating of new board members in September 2008. “There is a large difference of opinion,” says Philip Gasteier, GGPNC president. “Everyone wants to serve the community, but misunderstandings are the root of this problem.” These misunderstandings exploded last spring when two new members took issue with the process by which members are placed on the board. Currently, ten out of the 19 board members are elected, and the remaining nine are appointed by the board. “Out of 89 Neighborhood Councils in the city, we have the highest percentage of appointed members,” said Mark Mauceri, board secretary, in a phone call following the meeting. “It’s an inordinately high appointment level, [and] I felt that the way it was set up had the potential to be abused.” Mauceri, with the help of board treasurer Tomas O’Grady, collected over 500 signatures to bring before the board with the goal of reducing the number of appointed seats from nine to four or five. The attempt failed, though, and marked the beginning of the tension and discord that now all but define the board’s operations. As if it to reflect it’s own difficulty in self-regulation, the board’s June 17th meeting agenda included a disproportionate amount of housekeeping items, which have visually frustrated some of its members. One of these items has been and still remains a major point of contention: record-keeping. In April, the board moved to limit the minutes, taken by Mauceri, to three pages. The motion meant that minutes would include only actions taken and decisions made, not
abstracts or quotes from board members. However, according to “Roberts Rules of Order,” if the minutes are published they must include abstracts. As such, the board spent a great deal of time discussing whether the minutes that are posted on the website constitute publication, all in an attempt to determine what, according to Roberts Rules, must be recorded and made public. It did not take long, however, for the talk to deteriorate from rules and regulations to personal accusations over accuracy and bias. “Let’s be honest,” said Mauceri. “There are some things in [the minutes] that people aren’t proud of.” Gasteier agreed, also in a phone conversation following the meeting, that the concerns were deeper than a question of rules and regulations. “There are concerns,” he said, “as to whether the minutes properly reflect what was said.” Mauceri later added, “People said some things that they wish they hadn’t, myself included.” However, he goes on, he taped the meetings and has been willing to play tapes back in order to confirm direct quotes. “I have yet to be taken up on that,” he says. In the end, the board moved to redact the minutes to include only motions. As the board moves forward, the question now becomes appropriate use of meeting time. Gasteier, for example, worries that excessive talk about logistical items takes away from the boards’ ability to do its job. “We have more important things to do for this community,” he said. “Teamwork is how you get things done.”
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[a dog’s life]
New Law Limits Dogs at Dog Parks By Jennier Clark, Ledger Columnist
4624 hollywood boulevard 3 2 3 . 6 6 4 . 1 4 6 2 Page 10 LIFESTYLES
T h i n k i ng of bringing your large canine brood to a dog park for an afternoon romp? Think again. Last December, a new law passed limiting the amount of dogs a person can take to a dog park to a maximum of three. While this law has been in effect for six months, park officials are just now beginning to enforce it since signs have recently been posted. A violation of the law will land you a $1,000 fine or up to six months in jail. While most of us don’t own more than three dogs and will be unaffected, many local dog walkers make a liv-
ing off of taking large groups of dogs to dog parks. According to the Associated Press, one dog-walking couple, who charge $35 per dog per day, make an average of $180,000 a year. This new law will certainly hinder the way they make a living. Proponents of this law believe that people have a hard
time controlling large packs of dogs off leash and this in turn can make dog parks chaotic, dangerous and messy. There is a small loophole though, as anyone wishing to bring more than three dogs to a park may file for a permit, which would allow them to bring multiple dogs during specified hours.
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Su Casa REAL ESTATE Page 11
Los Feliz Ledger [ real estate ]
Appraisals are Hurting our Market By Richard Stanley, Ledger Columnist Since May, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, the nation’s leading purchasers of home mortgages, have initiated new loan underwriting guidelines that require lenders to choose appraisers randomly from a pool. Gone are the days of lenders’ relying upon a trusted cadre of “in-house” or “approved” appraisers. On its face, the idea seems sound: that appraisers drawn from a pool are less likely to be untowardly influenced and to over-value a property. Prior to the last downturn, in the early 1990s, some appraisers deliberately inflated their appraisals, thus allowing borrowers to convert phantom eq-
uity to cash. When the market deflated, lenders were left with more defaults and bigger losses. Since that era, appraisers are licensed and are less likely to lead lenders into fraudulent loans, knowing that their licenses and livelihoods are on the line. It’s worth noting that the current problems did not arise due to appraisal issues. Loose underwriting criteria and highrisk loan products are to blame. Nevertheless, thanks to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, a borrower today must get a loan appraisal from a pool appraiser who may or may not be familiar with the local real estate market—especially its inventory and the premiums paid for trophy properties. The appraiser
assigned to a Los Feliz property may do many more appraisals in a market such as the High Desert, where housing is more homogeneous and values are severely depreciated. Such appraisals may produce a lowerthan-market-value figure. Further, appraisers are now disallowing value for non-permitted additions and upgrades. Thus, that extra bathroom that was put in years ago on the QT will not contribute to the value of your house. Your property will be compared to other properties that have the same number of officially-noted bedrooms or bathrooms. If you can’t find a city permit for bedrooms, bathrooms or living square
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footage above what’s quoted on the assessor’s record, you will probably have a hard time convincing an appraiser that you should get value for them. One problem facing property owners now is that the county maintains the assessor’s records, which most appraisers rely upon, and the city maintains the building permit records, from which the assessor’s records are derived. The two governmental entities do not always communicate well with each other to keep public records accurate and current. Discrepancies abound. For example, one appraiser measured a recent sale of mine at 2,800 square feet. Another measured the house at 3,200 square feet. The seller, who had architectural training, measured his own house at 3,000 square feet. The assessor’s records reported the house to be 3,500 square feet. Whose figure was to be believed? Naturally, the lender chose to believe the lowest figure, the seller dropped the price and, fortunately, the buyer was able to add more cash to close the deal—but the market was depressed further. What Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have done to neighborhoods such as ours is to artificially depress the market values of our properties by using overly-strict appraisal criteria implemented by incompetent appraisers. My tips: always get a permit—especially for additions— and get it “signed off” by the city. Check your property’s public record information, including permits, for accuracy and to be sure they jibe. Try to resolve discrepancies now, before you sell or refinance. Richard Stanley is a realtor with Coldwell Banker/Los Feliz. rstanley@coldwellbanker. com or at (323) 906-2417.
[ SELECT HOME SALES JULY 2009 ] Be sure to check www.losfelizledger. com/homesales.htm for the full list of real estate sales.
90026 Single Family Homes 3405 1012 2126 1626 1506 1637 1400
N DILLON ST . . . . . . . . . . . . $839,000 WESTERLY TER. . . . . . . . . . . 750,000 CHAMPLAIN TER. . . . . . . . . 605,000 RESERVOIR ST . . . . . . . . . . . 561,000 CORONADO TER. . . . . . . . . 499,000 WATERLOO ST. . . . . . . . . . . . 425,000 PLATA ST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 333,000
90027 Condominimums 4711 AMBROSE AVE 306. . . . . . $560,000 1971 RODNEY DR 205 . . . . . . . . . 460,000
90027 Single Family Homes 3556 5224 3835 4222 2054 3827
LOWRY RD. . . . . . . . . . . . $2,150,000 LOS GRANDES WAY. . . . 1,745,000 CLAYTON AVE. . . . . . . . . . 1,030,000 LOS NIETOS DR . . . . . . . . . . 960,000 N NEW HAMPSHIRE AVE. 850,000 FERNWOOD AVE. . . . . . . . . 595,000
90039 Condominimum 2849 AVENEL ST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $685,000
90039 Single Family Home 2674 2085 2849 2958
IVAN HILL TER. . . . . . . . . . . $924,000 BALMER DR. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 879,000 AVENEL ST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 685,000 WAVERLY DR. . . . . . . . . . . . . 650,000
Sales are from the previous month. Source: Great American Real Estate Solutions
Local Sothebys Agent In Top Tier HOLLYWOOD—Russell Filice, with Sothebys International Realty’s Sunset Boulevard office—has been named as one of the country’s top overall 400 real estate professionals for 2008. Filice was listed at 54 in the ranking of “Top 100 Agents by Sales Volume.” The annual ranking is sponsored by the Wall Street Journal, REAL Trends and Lore magazines. “We are very proud of Russell Filice for his outstanding work, particularly during one of the most challenging real estate markets in history,” said Frank Symons, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Sotheby’s International Realty’s Western Region.
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Los Feliz Ledger [keen to be green]
[city sleuth]
Conserving Water in the Home
The Continuing Evolution of a Showplace
By Meher McArthur, Ledger Columnist
By Diane Kanner, Ledger Columnist
Now that summer is here and the Dept. of Water (LADWP) and Power has imposed mandatory water use restrictions, I am trying to follow some of the LADWP conservation tips (www.ladwp.com) and some are surprisingly simple. In the shower, I now use a bucket to catch the water for use in the garden. (A regular bucket will do, but Ripple Products has flexible buckets for the shower and sink at (www.rippleproducts.com). I have also reduced my shower time to three minutes and give my 3-year-old son fewer baths each week— and more rubdowns with wet cloths. To stop my son wast-
ing water during hand-washing and tooth-brushing, I installed a Smart Faucet (www. smartgadgetsinc.com), a clever, not-too-pricey ($14) gadget that shuts the tap off when you take your hands away. In the kitchen, we now soak dishes in soapy water and rinse them off. Our next investment may be a Hughie removable sink (www.hughie. com.au), which can be placed in the kitchen sink and then carried outside to water plants. I don’t run the tap to get cold water now—I keep a bottle of tap water in the fridge. It stands regally on the top shelf as a reminder of how precious water truly is. These products are available at All Shades of Green, 3038 Rowena Ave. (323) 665-7454
LOS FELIZ— It looks like Tuscany from the balcony of Robert De Pietro’s Los Feliz home and that is precisely why his parents Frank and Frances purchased the fivelot 45,000 square foot parcel in 1980. Views of the verdant hill where Ben Lomond Drive winds to the top, and a valley where Hyperion Boulevard divides Los Feliz from Silver Lake, reminded the senior De Pietro of his native Southern Italy which he had fled in 1940 to escape Mussolini’s regime. The Mediterranean-style compound was in “dismal” shape, the younger De Pietro recalled of the 1980 state of the Cromwell Avenue property— and so was the amount of hisAre you cleaning with toxic cleaners? torical background on hand. The F.D.I.C. sold the esCommercial and Residential tate to the De Pietro’s on beMention this Organic Cleaning Products ad for half of convicted embezzler C. free samples • Great for drycleaners, restaurants, Arnholt Smith. The original and hotels, parks, spas owner of the San Diego Padres, 20% discount • Safe for your family and pets Smith was known as “Mr. San Diego” before financial and leFreeing the world of toxic chemicals, one household at a time! gal troubles led to the sale of www.wowgreen.net/sharron (866) 385-8486 Executive Independent Distributor his Los Feliz pied-a-terre. Besides a realtor’s statement that the house had been WowGreen_July09.indd 1 6/24/09 8:36:05 PM built by “a famous singer,” its origins were unknown. Twenty nine years later, with voluminous improvements made and a pedigree uncovered, the “Villa Francesca,” named in honor of Mrs. De Pietro, who
continues to reside there, has who cites the original owner as the potential to become an ofVictor Schertzinger, a director ficial historic landmark. of silent and sound films. De Pietro’s motivation The National Archives for repairing and researching, and Records Administrabesides the obvious one of tion 1930 Census Microfilm, ow nership, available onderives from line. Depresa lifetime in sion notwithLos Feliz and standing, a career in the residence property imhoused the provement. nurse, butA licensed ler and cook civil engiof residents neer, he and Victor, Juhis archilia, Paula tect brother and Patricia Dennis are Schertzinger. commercial The property and induswas valued at trial prop$130,000. erty owners A little bit of Tuscany in Los Feliz. Wikiand develpedia, The opers in a partnership named Internet. Victor Schertzinger, Frank De Pietro and Sons in a name virtually forgotten by Eagle Rock. The senior De Piall but the most intrepid film etro, who died in 1986, graviand music composition lovers, tated to the real estate field is profiled extensively. after achieving success as a taiCalifornia Garden & lor doing business at 1755 N. Landscape History Society Vermont Avenue. (www.cglhs.org). Provided In trying to learn as much background on Mark Daniels, as he can about the house, De civil engineer who designed a Pietro has relied upon the folstriking pergola and balluslowing for information gathtraded walls overlooking Villa ering: Francesca’s 1936 Paddock The Los Feliz Improveswimming pool. ment Association Historical Huntington Library. Survey; Los Feliz branch, Los Newspapers & magazines of Angeles Public Library. Here, the 1920s revealed the prodiDe Pietro uncovered informagious output of Frank Meline, tion from 11 building permits the architect. catalog.huntingand the memoirs of a neighbor ton.org.
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Los Feliz Ledger [senior moments]
Will DASH Ever Expand to our Community? By Stephanie Vendig, Ledger Columnist At the annucreased revenue. The departThey are planning a community al meeting of ment figured that only one meeting for Thursday, October the Silver Lake Improvement new route a year could be ac15th to raise awareness of the Association, Councilmembers complished. So, Mr. Garcetti project and to garner monetary Eric Garcetti (CD13) and Tom contributed resources of his support from the businesses for LaBonge (CD4) updated the office to figure out ways of getthe proposed route. For more audience on issues facing Los ting revenue quicker and to information, contact Leonardo Angeles and their districts. promote community support. Chalupowicz at chalupo@pacMost of the news is rather deThe community support was bell.net or Ann Bradley at ann. pressing, due to our economic there, but funding solutions bradley@sbcglobal.net. situation. But suddenly, Having DASH In 2007, we even had a trial run of the there was a bit of good is a benefit for all. news: DASH service in DASH route, presented at the same time Every person takSilver Lake is a goal for as the groundbreaking of the Silver Lake ing a bus means one both councilmembers. library. Well, the library is scheduled to car less clogging the According to Mr. open this autumn, but the DASH will not roads. With a DASH Garcetti, the proposal, line that runs about be there to transport people from put forth five years ago, different points of the community to it. every 20 minutes, is still on the shelves you can leave behind of Los Angeles Department eluded us. In 2007, we even the hassles of parking, and you of Transportation (LADOT). had a trial run of the DASH can make multiple stops easier. However, the Silver Lake route route, presented at the same For people without a car, parmight be combined with the time as the groundbreaking of ticularly for seniors, DASH can existing Los Feliz route. the Silver Lake library. Well, be a ticket to independence. If Since 2004, Silver Lake the library is scheduled to open DASH makes shopping concommunity representatives this autumn, but the DASH venient, then businesses will have advocated for a DASH will not be there to transport benefit. route. Along with 80 other people from different points of For information, contact neighborhoods, there was a the community to it. Ryan Carpio from Counproposal from us. We were Now, more recent comcilmember Garcetti CD13 oftwentieth on the list accordmunity efforts have surfaced. fice at (323) 957-4500, Ryan. ing to criteria set up by the The Silver Lake Chamber of Carpio@lacity.org, or Julian LADOT. Commerce Green Committee Harris-Calvin from CounExpansion of DASH has put “Bring DASH to Silcilmember LaBonge’s CD4 ofroutes depended upon inver Lake” on their list of goals. fice at (213) 485-3337.
The Los Feliz Ledger will soon have an electronic newsletter in between our regular publication dates. To start receiving yours, please register at www.losfelizledger.com or email us at : newsletter@losfelizledger.com
Griffith Park Adult Community Club Calendar There will be no general meetings in July and August. Trips: July 28, 2009, San Pedro Harbor Cruise, waiting list August 20, 2009, Laguna Beach Call Doris Slater at (323) 667-1879 for information on both trips.
Classes Contact Griffith Park Adult Community Center (GPACC) at (323) 644-5579 or stop by at 3203 Riverside Dr., in the parking lot of Friendship Auditorium south of Los Feliz Blvd to get a schedule of classes and events. Silver Lake Recreation Center at 1850 W. Silver Lake Dr. (323) 644-3946 will also have classes. Classes and a lunch program is starting at Bellevue Recreation Center, 826 Lucille Ave. (323) 664-2468 The Lunch Program: Lunch is served 5 days a week at the Center. $1.75 is a donation for those over 60 years. Daily lunch is served at 12 pm and you can come in for coffee and sign in at 11:30. For Information on the Griffith Park Adult Community Club and getting a newsletter, call Stephanie Vendig at (323) 667-3043, or e-mail at vendig@sbcglobal.net or call Jeanne Phipps at (323) 664-2681. Programs for Free-Thinking Seniors!
To learn more about our current calendar of classes, concerts and cultural events, visit www.sunsethall.org. For information: Wendy Caputo (323) 962-5277
‘‘I choose to stay connected.” “When my son and his family moved out-of-state, I worried that we would lose touch. But thanks to Belmont’s Center for Learning, we’re more connected than ever. I even get e-mail from my grandchildren! Plus, I always have lots of pictures to show my friends. The Belmont Village Activity Programs Coordinator got me up to speed in no time, on computers designed especially for me. Now my grandkids can’t believe I’m surfing the web and I can’t believe how easy it is!”
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SENIOR MOMENTS Page 15
Los Feliz Ledger BID reforms from page 1
and has singled out two points as the most pressing. The first is a restructuring of assessment fees for businesses in Los Feliz that don’t easily fit into a pre-existing category, such as those with a sole proprietor or Internet businesses. The second is ensuring that the board is in compliance with the Brown Act, regarding quorum at committee meetings and posting meeting minutes and agendas on the website in a timely manner. As far as the process used to determine which points are the most pressing, Ciancuilli said, “we try to pay attention to whatever [Get Rid of the BID] wants, and go from there.” Following the administrative committee’s June 8th meeting, the selected points were brought back in front of the board for consideration at their June 10th meeting. It was agreed that the BID would cre-
ate a new assessment category for businesses that fit the previous description, the details of which will be worked out at the next administration committee meeting. Barbara Ferris, who spearheaded Get Rid of the BID, however, remains concerned over whether the board is doing enough to address the reforms. “I didn’t find [the BID board] meeting encouraging, because no decisions were made, no action was taken, no motions were made. It all seems very muddy,” she said. Ferris claims that the BID board has yet to take the proposed reforms seriously. “I felt that there was a slightly dismissive attitude,” she said. According to Ciancuilli, however, the board plans to move forward with considering each proposed change. “We’ll go down the list,” he says, “and cross off everything.”
Their objective is “to have a great time, meet new folk and let you get a little pocket change, while helping us make a change in Silver Lake.” 4016 Santa Monica Blvd., acrossish from Jiffy Lube. Contact gordonleedecor@hotmail.com for more information.
[sILver lake correspondent]
The Silverlake Beat By Ceres Madoo, Ledger Correspondent Silver Lake’s new library is set for completion before the end of the year. The Friends of the Silver Lake Library, www.fosll.org, will host a Book Sale Saturday, August 1st, from 10:00am to 2:00pm at 2450 Glendale Blvd., catty-corner to our future library. Silver Lake’s architectural tours get another building on their map and there will be more free office space for the cadre of freelancers, writers and underemployed workers crowding the cafes. Libraries are a win-winwin for communities like ours, but digital billboards? Silver Lakers hate Clear Channel’s Digital Billboard, on Effie and Silver Lake Blvd. The Los Angeles City Council has delayed the sprouting of more screen billboards throughout our city, yet the threat of obnoxious bombardment advertising is demoralizing any way you look at it. We all saw Blade Runner— we know what a hyper digitized cyber city can look like. It’s bad enough that there is no more Back Door Bakery or Netty’s… and what is going on with the space that was formally known as Eat Well? (There is a rumor about roaches.) Another community seriously interested in keeping Silver Lake, well… Silverlake, is Mi Alma Collective. In the garden, “installation transformation” is word go and
from rubble a uniquely beautiful engaging space has been staked. Neighbors, artists, performers and activist gather for community sales and events.
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July 2009
Los Feliz Ledger [ JULY 2009 events calendar ] Art “Barack Obama: The Freshman,” a photo exhibition during the early college years of the 44th President. Photos circa 1980 by Lisa Jack. Through August 29th. M + B Gallery, 612 N. Almont Dr. (310) 550-0050 www.mbfala.com
“Never Odd or Even,” exhibition by Jim Gentry. July 3rd through Aug. 30th Opening Reception: July 3rd, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Happy Gallery 4675 Hollywood Blvd. (323) 661-2200 www.happylosangeles.com “Sketches and Drawings,” exhibition features works by renowned Los Angeles Architect, Richard Neutra. Through Sept. 6th Richard J. Riordan Central Library Getty Gallery, 2nd Floor 630 W. Fifth St Reservations: (213) 228-7500 www.libfnd@lapl.org
Books “Barack Obama: The Freshman,” photos circa, 1980. Runs through Aug. 29th. © Lisa Jack/Contour by Getty Images
Cool Globes exhibition features 50 globes made by local, national, international artists and school children. Each globe weighs over 2,300 pounds and were created using recycled materials. Through July 23rd. Exposition Park, Rose Garden. www.coolglobes.com
“Teen LA” Summer Reading Kick-Off Party An afternoon of games, food, and music in a safe learning environment. Free Admission July 2nd, 3:30 p.m. Atwater Village Library 3379 Glendale Blvd. (323) 664-1353
Clubs
Music
Los Angeles Breakfast Club Wednesdays, 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m Friendship Auditorium, 3201 Riverside Dr., Public welcome. Los Feliz Library Adult Book Club Readings: “Book of Salt,” by Monique Truong July 18th, 11:00 a.m. 1874 Hillhurst Ave. (323) 913-4710 Echo Park Crochet & Knitting Club Beginners Welcome. July 18th, 11:00 a.m. Echo Park Library 1410 W. Temple St. (213) 250-7808
Dance Sizzling Summer Dance Night Series: Yari More, July 2nd Lucky 7, July 9th Orquesta Son Mayor, July 16th Perico Hernandez y Son de la Tierra, July 23rd Orquesta Charangoa, July 30th 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Autry National Center 4700 Western Heritage Way (323) 667-2000 www.autrynationalcenter.org Dance Downtown Series: West Coast Swing, July 10th New York Hustle/Disco Night, July 24th Beginner lessons start at 6:30 p.m. Free Admission Music Center 135 N. Grand Ave. (213) 972-3660 www.musiccenter.org
Lectures & Learning
Music in the L.A. Zoo: World Music Night, July 14th, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Classic Rock Night, July 24th, 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens 5333 Zoo Dr. Tickets:(323) 644-6042 www.lazoo.org Greek Theatre Summer Concert Series: Chris Botti, July 9th, 7:30 p.m; Andrew Bird, July 10th, 7:30 p.m; Michael McDonald, July 11th, 7:30 p.m; Tori Amos, July 17th, 7:30 p.m; Counting Crows, July 21st, 7:30 p.m; George Thorogood & The Destroyers, July 26th, 7:30 p.m; The Greek Theatre, 2700 N. Vermont Ave. www.ticketmaster.com
Feed Your Brain Lecture Series: “Apocalypse: Earthquakes, Archaeology, and the Wrath of God” Professor Amos Nur, Earth Sciences, Stanford University, discusses his new book and answers the significant geophysical impact and archaeological questions on earthquakes. July 19th, 11:00 a.m Center For Inquiry-West 4773 Hollywood Blvd. (323) 666-9797 www.cfiwest.org City of LA Bureau of Sanitation Presentation: Recycling For Kids, program teaches children the importance of going green for a better planet. Free gifts for participants. July 28th, 3:30 p.m. Atwater Village Library 3379 Glendale Blvd. (323) 664-1353
Summer Twilight Thursdays at Descanso Gardens 5:30–8 p.m. | Every Thursday during July and August Bring picnics and blankets for great outdoor entertainment—select Thursdays feature Latin jazz concerts on the stage! The kids can enjoy a ride on the diesel train replica for $3 a ride. Learn about wine tastings, outdoor fitness classes and kid’s programming and more at www.Descansogardens.org.
Extended Hours
Politics Silver Lake Neighborhood Council July 1st, 7:00 p.m. 1511 Micheltorena St. Micheltorena Street Elementary School www.SilverLakeNC.org
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CALENDAR Page 17
Los Feliz Ledger [theater review]
Local Theaters Offer Message of Hope By Marilyn Oliver, Ledger Theater Critic Although they are drastically different in approach the two plays reviewed this month both end on a hopeful note. “Oklahoma,” Rodgers and Hammerstein’s classic which deals with life in the Oklahoma territory at the beginning of the 20th century, is the featured fare at the Glendale Center Theatre. Although many of us are familiar with the 1950s movie starring Gordon McCrae and Shirley Jones, this production on the small center stage of the Glendale Center Theatre does not disappoint. Curly is deftly played by Robert Standley, an actor who looks like a young Dean Martin. Heather Lundstedt, a regular in the theater’s
musicals this season, is perfect as the young Laurey and delivers her songs in a clear, lyrical soprano. August Stoten’s portrayal of the evil Jud Fry is menacing and scary. The comedic roles of flirtatious Ado Annie and her boyfriend, the long suffering Will Parker, are a counterpoint to the romance of Curley and Laurey and are cleverly portrayed by Ann Myers and Jason Keef. This is an energy filled production with lots of dancing and colorful costumes. It provides fun entertainment for all ages. On a more serious note, the West Coast premiere of “Coming Home” by noted South African playwright Athol Fugard at the Fountain
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Theatre portrays the frustrations of village life in contemporary, post apartheid South Africa. The plot continues the story of Veronica, a talented singer who first appeared in Fugard’s 1995 play “Valley Song” in which she leaves home to follow her dreams in Cape Town. The high level of acting lives up to the well-known standards of productions at the Fountain Theatre. Fugard’s use of language and metaphor make the play a must see for serious playgoers. For the play’s two hour or so duration, I felt at a visceral level the problems of race and poverty in South Africa’ black villages. “Oklahoma” runs until July 11 at the Glendale Center Theatre, 324 N. Orange Street, Glendale. Reservations: (818) 244-8481. Tickets $23-$26. Performances Thursday-Saturday evenings at 8 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday at 3 p.m. “Coming Home” runs until August 29 at the Fountain Theatre 5060 Fountain Avenue; Reservations (323) 663-1525 or www.fountaintheatre.com. Tickets $25-$28.Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays at 8 p.m.; Sundays at 2 p.m.
[Meet My Neighborhood]
Beachwood Canyon By Rona Edwards, Ledger Columnist There’s something comforting and familiar sauntering up Beachwood Drive. Maybe it’s the neighborly feeling, that people say hello when you pass them or that you know the residents by their dogs’ names as they walk up the street leading toward the Hollywood sign. I live on Beachwood— the lower part, not the posh, tucked-in-the-canyon, manor home Beachwood. Adous Huxley, Keanu Reeves and Madonna have lived here. Originally the neighborhood was a housing development. But soon, it became a symbol worldwide of a town born from celluloid fairy tales. Bugsy Siegel owned a speakeasy on Durand Drive from 1938 to 39. Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., was born at 2210 No. Beachwood Drive and 2222 was once the home of Charlie Chapin (now a condominium). Mack Sennett, co-owner of the development, wanted to create a residential area for artists and Hollywoodland was born in 1923. Earlier, Albert Beach paved the drive into the hills, nam-
ing Beachwood Drive after himself in 1911. Walking up this street, one feels the presence of yesteryear and what life was like when your neighbors were Norma Talmadge or Pola Negri of the silent film era. At 2560 No. Beachwood sits the very first silent movie theatre, currently the Hollywood Theosophical Center. The illustrious past of Hollywood’s Golden Age is marked by art deco columns of ornate Spanish and Mediterranean style buildings amidst the California craftsman homes and the angular apartments of the 50s, 60s and later. It’s a hodgepodge of every era since this development began. This is my Beachwood where I walk my dog, Bizou, a miniature poodle who loves the smells of the canyon and the King Charles Spaniel he occasionally bumps into. Walking Beachwood, life becomes simpler, stress melts away; this is a neighborhood and everyone’s got your back. Rona Edwards is a movie/TV producer who has written for numerous publications.
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www.losfelizledger.com
6/22/09 5:59:32 PM
July 2009
Los Feliz Ledger [open mike]
[open mike]
Regarding Elected Vs. Selected Coverage
“Downgraded?” Hardly!
Regarding “Board Votes vs. Election Changes,” (June 2009), I was saddened to see that the Ledger has once again chosen to print a one-sided piece, containing hateful and inaccurate comments about members of the GGPNC who are serving their community in good faith. The article incorrectly describes a motion as one which would have reduced the number of appointed seats. In fact, after I spent a lot of time to put the prior proposal into a workable bylaws amendment— which would in fact have done that and which was properly distributed in advance of this meeting—Mr. O’Grady never presented the proposal to reduce the number of appointed members for the 2010 election. He chose instead at the last minute to present a new proposal, which was to vote now for a change by a date certain—with the change to be determined later. When it was pointed out that it is unwise to vote for something to be agreed upon later, Mr. O’Grady and Mr. Mauceri opposed an amendment to put the horse back before the cart. The Ledger chose to print the votes cast on only this proposal—without mentioning that it had no substance and would not have applied until the 2012 election in any event. The fact is that for the second consecutive meeting, Mr. O’Grady and Mr. Mauceri chose to present an ill-prepared motion with little advance work other than threats and shouts of “democracy.” Stakeholders may rightfully ask, as I believe many Board members did, whether this was about posturing rather than effecting real change in a responsible and intelligent way. Phillip Gasteier President, GGPNC
Regarding “Board Votes vs. Election Changes,” (June 2009), the Ledger article and editorial reporting the GGPNC’s disinclination to make its election process “more democratic” entirely missed the point: neighborhood councils were created only to transmit information. NCs only act as a conduit of information from the City government to the neighborhoods, and in return, the NC’s job is to research and report back to the City government the wishes of their stakeholders. It requires expertise to adequately research education issues, zoning and land use regulations, business climate, cultural affairs, and as most of your readers are aware, the GGPNC area contains the largest natural urban park in America. All of these aspects, and many more, require constant attention and knowledgeable care, and the appointed Board member process has enabled us to secure professionals in their field that would never consent to run in a public election. It has been the experience in the past seven years of the GGPNC’s existence that the large majority of committee chairs are appointed and long-serving, while elected members generally perform necessary administrative tasks and have a far higher drop-out rate. According to Betty Wong Oyama, of the Dept. of Neighborhood Empowerment, as of June 2009, the GGPNC is one of the “… better neighborhood councils” in Los Angeles. The Ledger also makes much of the 500 or so signatures gathered to indicate support of the O’Grady amendment; but there was no mention that these signatures were without contact information to verify the signator, i.e., home address, phone numbers or email address. As to public support for the O’Grady amendment, the Ledger editorial mentioned an
earlier GGPNC meeting where more than 200 stakeholders had gathered to emphatically make their opinions known—possibly a meeting in 2007 where a Preferential Parking District was considered—and that the Board arrived at a conclusion that was in accordance with the community’s wishes. Also, when the GGPNC held a forum at Mother of Good Counsel regarding the tear down of the Brown Derby, up to 350 irate stakeholders attended. And when the LA Zoning Commissioner heard the public re: Wolfgang Puck’s attempt to establish a banqueting venue at Griffith Observatory, a large and thoroughly angry citizenry turned up at City Hall, and Councilmember LaBonge had to be summoned to deal with his constituents. However, at two publicly “noticed” GGPNC meetings that agendized O’Grady’s amendment, the proponent had every opportunity to bring forth supporters to impress the Board. For both meetings combined, there were approximately ten stakeholders who attended to support the O’Grady amendment; among them, three of the O’Grady children with one or two of their grade school classmates, all age 10 or younger. This show of support, together with an unverifiable petition, was not considered by the GGPNC be a valid expression of public will; and the motion to continue the issue failed.
In reference to “Advisory Group’s Work Downgraded,” (June 2009) there are some clarifications that will further your readers’ understanding of a master plan for Griffith Park. The Master Plan Working Group’s rewrite of the Melendrez draft plan remains a living document. Both Tom LaBonge, Chair of the Los Angeles City Council’s Arts/Parks and Aging Committee, and Vicki Israel, Assistant General Manager of Recreation and Parks, are on record that the next step is the hiring of a new consulting firm to memorialize the working group’s plans/ concepts. In the meantime, Ms. Israel suggests we label the draft as a “vision plan,” pending a funding source in the current fiscal climate. The essential premise of the Working Group draft— the Urban Wilderness concept—has been widely embraced by all stakeholders as the guiding vision for the future of America’s greatest city park.
Regarding, “Advisory Group’s Work Downgraded,” (June 2009), it’s important that your readership know that the use of the word “Downgraded” was the word choice of the Ledger, and no other body or person. Furthermore, even if the word “downgraded” were the correct verb (which it is not), it is not the “work” that is being downgraded. Rather, it’s what happens to the work, here on end, which has taken an unexpected detour as a result of the City budget crisis. However, having a Vision or Framework Plan still affords Griffith Park a high level of distinction and protection, especially in combination with its HistoricCultural designation. As a member of the Working Group (not “Advisory Group”), I am proud of the document. The local community, citizens throughout the city, high level Recreation and Parks staff, and others have mostly praised the clear visions and principles laid out in this document. They also seem to be genuinely appreciative of the hundreds of hours of volunteer time that went into its creation.
Chris Laib Co-Chair, Parks Committee Los Feliz Improvement Assoc.
Gerry Hans, Working Group Member representing Oaks Homeowners Association
Jacqueline Kerr is a current board member of the GGPNC and is its former transportation chair.
Submission Guidelines To submit a letter or editorial, send to acohen@losfelizledger.com or to 4459 Avocado St., LA, CA 90027. Include your name, area in which you live and contact information. Letters become property of the Los Feliz Ledger and may be edited for clarity or space for reprinting.
[open mike]
“So-Called” Called Into Question Regarding “LAUSD Budget Cuts: “A Tale of Two Silver Lakes,” (June 2009), the Ledger would be a more credible news source if it didn’t allow its socio-political biases to creep so obviously into what it purports to be its news coverage. The article, for example, twice uses the dismissive locution “so-called” to denigrate a perspective you evidently disagree with, and writes of a school population “considered low income.” The population isn’t merely considered low income, it is, in fact, low income: its average income is lower than others’ with which it is being compared. This is a numerical fact, not a political July 2009
construction. Stimulus funds are correctly being directed to schools most in need. As the article itself points out, the parents of children at Ivanhoe—who live in milliondollar homes overlooking the reservoir—can raise or give money when the school falls short. The parents of children at Micheltorena—who basically exist paycheck-to-paycheck—are less likely to have this capability. The real “tale of two Silver Lakes” is that the community, like the rest of the city and the country, has a widening wealth gap. Paul Tullis, Los Feliz
www.losfelizledger.com
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Beautiful Delicious Delivered Pies • Cakes • Tarts • Cookies EDITORIAL / OPEN MIKE Page 19
Los Feliz Ledger [editorial]
Tradition and Proposition 8 By Jerry Lewis With the legalization of gay marriage in California, and the following whiplash of Prop. 8, life for gay people has been turbulent to say the least. While it’s encouraging to have a formal tally on the vast number of supporters of this minority’s most important relationships, it’s also disheartening to have jumped so high and with so much effort and hope, not to have cleared the high-jump bar. That bar to same-gender marriage has been set very high, and the means of raising that bar has included some repugnant methods, which feel personal. Above and beyond the average level of deficiency in adjustment leftover from adolescence, upon adulthood the gay individual, like everyone else, is expected to set aside that baggage and be productive in a society from which they cannot disassociate. The gay man cannot divorce his world, try though he might, and the gay and non-gay are stuck with one another for better or for worse. The gay man is to get himself together, which is to say, live with integrity and become able to maintain his bearings in the face of common insults
and discrimination—no small feat for many. But to live with integrity includes honesty, and honestly the average gay man wants another gay man to love. He wants what most people want—whether he admits it or not—he wants intimate affection and validation; he wants a partner to bear witness and share his life. And he wants the modicum of safety which social equality provides. In keeping with tradition, the work of educating folks becomes the gay man’s burdensome chore. The gay individual must talk with the most frightening blitz of angry and hurtful folks who are stridently set against same-gender marriage, although even many years of demonstrations and pleas for consideration are no guarantee of equality in regard. History informs us that many displays of equanimity are required of the minority in order to take the hill before the law submits to fairness. It’s a terrible tradition, this trial by fire and blood and death— glass ceilings, vilification, propaganda, the association of homosexuality with communism or other ‘isms and constant
Page 20 EDITORIAL / OPEN MIKE
psychological warfare on the smaller group. This tradition is as familiar and predictable as the occasional assassination of those who would become heroes or martyrs posthumously. Gay marriage or no gay marriage, life is hard for all of us, although we surely make our lives harder than it need be by bickering about which kind of love is deserving of marriage. Perhaps with time humanity will invent a new tradition, one that makes us able to forget rancor and prejudice, so that we can skip
over so much wasted life. Until then, however, we all pay the price of fear and ignorance and misapprehension. F. Scott Fitzgerald, whose foibles and short lifespan may have arisen from a tendency to ruminate near the nub of things, wrote in his story, The Freshest Boy: “It isn’t given to us to know those rare moments when people are wide open and the slightest touch can whither or heal. A moment too late and we can never reach them anymore in this world.” Maybe I can’t know that
moment in a person’s mind when they can feel warmth again and perhaps recognize a piece of themselves upon witnessing gay tenderness. But I do know about gestures—a handshake, a look in the eye, a kind word—and I will employ them as my most popular tools in order to increase my odds of summoning the surprise gift of a warm smile—to promote the welfare of us all, and to achieve marriage for deserving kith and kin. Jerry Lewis is a resident of Los Feliz.
Boycott VERMONT HAND WASH Corner of Vermont and Hollywood Blvd.
Criminal Charges Have Been Filed Against This Carwash and Its Owners On Feb. 9, the Los Angeles city attorney filed more than 170 criminal charges altogether against Vermont Hand Wash owner Benny Pirian, his brother Nisan and manager Manuel Reyes.
The charges include: Witness intimidation. Grand theft of wages. Not providing rest or meal breaks. Brandishing a deadly weapon.
Help CLEAN up the carwash industry by avoiding carwashes that don’t respect workers’ rights.
www.CleanCarwashLA.org
www.losfelizledger.com
July 2009
Los Feliz Ledger [editorial]
To Be Of Service By Tor Hyams I ran for election to the GGPNC in 2008. I lost. Perhaps I had not said the right things (that and the fact that I didn’t get enough votes). The resounding chorus of my political song was that it wasn’t my time. But, why? I evaluated what it truly meant to me and why I wanted to serve my community. And then it hit me. It was an overwhelming desire to release myself from my own needs and serve the needs of the greater good—yes a lofty sentiment, I know. So much of our lives are spent serving ourselves. So little time is spent on behalf of others: one’s neighbor, one’s community or one’s country. Had I realized this earlier, I certainly would have campaigned more and probably garnered more votes. The one thing that nagged at me was a question posed at the candidate’s forum: “If you were not to be elected, would you still participate in serving the community?” Everyone in the room said yes, including me. It was time to honor my words. I put myself forward to chair the transportation com-
mittee. Once appointed, I educated myself on the issues— not just my own, but more so the issues of the community –and set about seeking resolve. I went to meet our fellow stakeholders to look at their particular issue first hand. What I discovered was that people were just as interested in being heard as they were about resolving their issues. Though at first it seemed like I was benefiting others with benevolent efforts, it was soon obvious that I was actually serving myself. As it turned out, it felt good to serve. I then felt like I understood the idea of service for the first time. It is the ultimate power because service, by its very nature, strives to be bigger than itself, to create a cascading domino affect that can move a mountain. I believe we are witnessing the birth of a revolution, but this war will not be fought with weapons. This is a battle of consciousness. The time for selfishness has passed. The time for compassion is upon us. Ultimately, service is a subset of compassion. To truly have compassion requires selflessness. Selflessness can lead to service. Service can change the world.
Since I was appointed to the GGPNC, I have witnessed that the individuals on the Board sincerely desire to serve our community. However, there has been some disparity among the Council recently as to how that service should manifest. Though I cannot think of any political body that is in perpetual agreement, I can imagine a Council that debates without anger, that treats each other with deserved respect, and that doesn’t debase itself by name calling, grandstanding or standing in judgment of
each other based on individual beliefs. Mostly, I would like to see this Council evolve to, regardless of individual belief, the common binding thread is the single purpose of serving the needs of the Greater Griffith Park community. Those needs are not as well served by particular or individual opinions of the Board as they are by heeding the call but of stakeholders. It should be the goal of our Council to enrich, enliven and proactively improve our community, not to ignore, stomp
upon, or prohibit change. The moment is upon us. We all can do our part to evolve our community, to advance compassion and practice tolerance and kindness. I humbly request that everyone reading this, both Council members and stakeholders, heed this call and rise to your innate potential for kindness in everything you do. After all, we are here to serve. Tor Hyams is a current member of the GGPNC and chair of its transportation committee.
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joan kim wagner_Coop.pdf
b efor e
5/22/08
after
6:27:27 PM
.............................. Jessica LeRoy M A , M F T .............................. SPECIALIZING IN THE PSYCHOLOGY OF WOMEN
learn more at www.jessicaleroy.com/ledger jleroy@jessicaleroy.com
323.369.0755
Marriage & Family Therapist, License #MFC44907 Illustration courtesy of www.alysonfox.com
Elaine Silberman, Ph.D., Psy.D Licensed Clinical Psychologist, # Psy13381 Contemporary Relational Psychoanalyst 323-664-8240, Silver Lake Specializing in: depression, anxiety, assertiveness, shyness, relationships, couple communication, eating problems, self esteem issues and parenting.
July 2009
www.losfelizledger.com
ROLFWORKS Structural Integration Lynn Cohen, CSIP, LMT www.rolfworks.net 323-807-8986
EDITORIAL / OPEN MIKE Page 21
Los Feliz Ledger [religion and spirituality]
Fire Dept. Lends a Hand (& a Ladder) To “Little Church on the Corner” By Roberta Morris, Ledger Religion and Spirituality Writer LOS FELIZ– How many fire fighters does it take to unscrew a light bulb? St. Mary of the Angels Church wants to extend a thank you to the Los Angeles Fire Department-Station 35 for doing just that. On May 30th, the day before Feast of Pentecost that many Christians consider the birthday of the church, two floodlights were burned out on the ceiling of the church’s sanctuary on Finley Avenue. It’s such a high ceiling that Mary Alice Kelley, the rector’s wife, didn’t want her husband climbing the ladder to change the bulbs, so she called the non-emergency line at the LAFD Station just around the corner on Hillhurst Avenue. Within minutes, the light bulbs were changed. The fire department did not stop there, though. In
June, when crew members learned the church’s bell had frozen mid-ring during the Pentecost Day Mass, they supplied a ladder, some lubricant and a few good tugs. The bell is now free to ring. The church—known as “The Little Church on the Corner”—is currently celebrating its 80th year. Among the anniversary celebrations, it hosted a Festal Evensong sung by Jouyssance, a Renaissance choral group directed by Nicole Baker, an event that coincided with the Episcopal Visitation of The Right Reverend Daren K. Williams, Bishop of the West for the Anglican Church in America. “We are eagerly looking forward to the 80th anniversary of our Church building,” said Father Christopher Kelley, rector of the parish, “and want everyone to know what a treasure this is, nestled here in Los Feliz.”
[star gazing for july] By Anthony Cook, Griffith Observatory July 20th marks the 40th anniversary of humans first setting foot on the moon. The John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum has a commemorative website that enables users to download a widget that provides a way to re-create the activities during the first four days of the Apollo 11 mission. Visit www.wechoosethemoon. org for information. On the night of the 12th, Jupiter will be in the same telescopic field-of view as Neptune. Jupiter’s four largest moons, discovered by Galileo four centuries ago this year, are easily visible with binoculars or a telescope. Neptune is just over ½ de-
gree north of Jupiter, appearing at high telescopic magnification as a very small, faint , blue disk. Galileo sketched Neptune near Jupiter and its moons in 1612 and 1613 but thought it was a background star, leaving its discovery as a planet to astronomers more
than two centuries later. The new moon on July 21st passes directly in front of the sun, causing a total eclipse visible through a swath of India, China, and the Pacific Ocean. No trace of the eclipse, however, will be observable from Los Angeles.
Los Feliz Ledger’s
Classified Ads
To place your classified ad, email us at classified@losfelizledger.com
OFFICE SPACE
FOR SALE
FOR RENT: Office $750/MO. (inc. phone/vmail, Internet & fax) 1010 N. Central Ave., Glendale Virtuoso Business Centers (818) 245-1100 Ask for Carrie Ostroff
FOREST LAWN Glendale Exclusive, key entry, private garden. Columbarium of Courage in Garden of Honor/Court of Freedom. 4 person niche (cremation remains). #G1272. Asking $6,700 negotiable. (323) 662-4943.
What’s Your Problem? By Elma Mayer, Ledger Columnist Got a problem? Here’s my advice. Don’t think about it. Don’t talk about it. Don’t, analyze it, meditate on it, or throw money at it. In fact, don’t focus on your problem at all. This isn’t suppression or denial. It’s an acknowledgement that what you focus on will expand. The problem itself is not the problem. How you perceive your situation and how you react to it—determines the outcome. The real issue is the underlying energy of the problem, which is hardly ever conscious or logical. There are two main ingredients to dissolving a problem: 1) working with it on the energetic level rather than the physical or mental levels, and 2) getting neutral and non-attached to it. Detach from the problem, observe your reaction to it. This helps dissipate the energy. Noisy neighbors: don’t call the police, get neutral. Financial
fiasco: don’t panic, get neutral. Pink slip, scary diagnosis, spouse cheating, teen drinking: same advice. Get neutral. Go to your center and connect with your Highest Self to shift the energy. When something bothers you, large or small, try this Energetic Alignment. As you say each command, briefly focus on your spine to input it into your nervous system via your energy meridians. “Disentangle from the problem on all levels. Heal the energetic causes. Transcend the problem. Align with creative resolution. Align with infinite possibility.” Now, take a nice deep breath. Get in touch with the situation that originally bothered you, and see how it feels in this moment. Notice the changes that happen in the near future. Elma Mayer can be reached at www.nowhealing.com (323) 309-7687.
T EMPLE KN E S S E T IS R A E L "Your Friendly Neighborhood Shul" Join us for Shabbat services at 9:15am every Saturday followed by bagels, some sweets and a lively Torah discussion. • 2 blocks South of Sunset Blvd. • Se Habla Espanol • A conservative congregation • All are welcome! • Free and easy parking .
1260 North Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90029 323-665-5171 | www.templeki.org
Page 22 RELIGION & SPIRITUALITY
www.losfelizledger.com
July 2009
Largest Real Estate Office in Los Feliz (150+ Agents) Fastest Growing Real Estate Company in North America 2411 Inverness Ave
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The Harry Chandler Estate, built in the tradition of Hollywood’s Golden Era, on approx one acre in the Los Feliz foothills. The home was designed in 1914 for living on a grand scale. The 24-room interior retains original hardwood detail, distinctive paneling and ornately carved fireplace. A grand entrance which rises two stories in baronial splendor is the focal point of the 3 story home. Grounds feature blendings of creative space, pool, guest house, in a handsomely landscaped traditional setting. Dorothy Carter/Michael Orland (323) 300-1025
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Character 3bed, 2bath Tudor with contemporary updates overlooking the reservoir! Great lake views, patio and a spacious flat yard! Great extra storage. Ivanhoe School!
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Gorgeous Character Spanish. Total renovation includes: Dual System HVAC, Plumbing, Electric, Lighting, Chimney, Wood Floors, Windows, Designer done kitchen & Baths, Media/4th Bedroom, Landscape, Wired for Smart House, Plasma TV’s, Sound System, Ivanhoe Elementary School.
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Gorgeous Spanish duplex w/ incredible views and both units delivered vacant! Huge units, batchelder fireplace in each unit, built-ins, crown moldings, original tile, large FDR, Perfect owner user or investment opportunity!
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1971 Myra Avenue - Sold for $805,000 Listed & Sold For Over Asking Price With Multiple Offers In Ten Days! Dear George and Eileen, Thank you for the great job you did selling my late sister-in-laws home in Los Feliz. We had already interviewed two realtors when several of the neighbors highly recommended that we get in touch with you. I’m glad that we did. Selling a home through probate, as we had to do, can be a long and tedious process. However, your advise and guidance was right on the money and helped us sell this property within one week, above asking price and with multiple offers to boot. That’s an incredible feat in today’s tight real estate environment. Your marketing program is top notch and certainly got the right people looking at the house right from the onset. I especially like the “coming soon” strategy. It created a lot of interest and anticipation well before the house officially went on the market. I’m convinced this was a major factor in selling the house so quickly. Again, thank you for hard work. I now understand first hand why you both have the great reputation that you do in the Los Feliz and Silver Lake real estate business. Sincerely, Mike Rizzo
Los Feliz
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3455 Griffith Park Blvd Los Feliz Hills $1,249,000 Exquisitely Restored 1926 Los Feliz Mediterranean w/3 bd suites each w/private bath plus additional 1/2 ba. Gorgeous LR w/fireplace. Gourmet kitchen w/center island & stainless appliances. Formal dining rm. A stunning home w/5 lovely patios for outdoor dining & entertaining.
For Sale
2700 Glendower Avenue Los Feliz Hills $1,595,000 W.L. Skidmore Brick and Glass 3 bd 3 ba Masterpiece + full guest apt w/kitchen & full bath. Sweeping city views from downtown to the Westside & Griffith Park. Huge Gourmet kitchen, stunning LR opens to large view terrace. Cozy Media rm. 2 fireplaces.
Sold
1945 Beachwood Drive Unit E Beachwood Canyon $499,000 Fabulous spacious 3 bed & 2 1/2 ba townhouse in the desirable Beachwood Canyon area w/a wonderful floor plan that feels very much like a home. Remodeled kitchen, hardwood floors, formal dining room, fireplace, patio, good storage, laundry, 3 parking spaces.
Silver Lake
Just Listed
1337 Westerly Terrace Silver lake $629,000 Beautifully renovated 2+2 Cape Cod w/views. Formal DR opens to wonderful Cook’s kitchen. LR leads to deck w/views of downtown. Lovely master suite leads to patio w/arbor & large grassy yard w/rm 4 pool. It has been lovingly updated & restored that won’t disappoint. Home sweet home.!
For Sale
2249 Duane Street Silver Lake $835,000 Great investment or owner user property in Silver Lake. 4 large 1 bedrooms plus 2 bedroom & 1 bathroom owners unit with central air conditioning. Nice views from several units and large front yard. Walking distance to the reservoir, shops, & restaurants.
Sold
7250 Franklin Avenue #309 Hollywood Hills $485,000 Spacious 2 bed & 2 bath condo w/views of Hollywood landmarks. Dining area, wet bar, nook for home office. Enjoy a gracious lifestyle living in this luxurious full service building, valet parking, concierge, pool, spa, fitness center w/roof top patio w/wraparound views.
Franklin Hills
Coming Soon
1310 Silver Lake Boulevard Silver Lake Call for Price Gated for privacy this charming 2 + 1 Post & Beam offers a great open Cook’s kitchen w/stainless appl, dark hardwood flrs, dining area, lovely front & rear yard w/patio. A perfect Silver Lake starter home walking distance to restaurants, boutiques & restaurants. Urban living at its best!
For Sale
71 Glen Summer Road Pasadena $869,000 Beautifully renovated 3 bed & 2 bath Spanish home in the outstanding San Rafael neighborhood on one of the most beautiful tree lined streets in Pasadena. Gorgeous kitchen opens to family rm, old world character & details, hardwood floors, Cent A/C. Yard & deck.
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2054 North New Hampshire Los Feliz $850,000 Lovely 3 bed, 2 ba 1920’s Spanishin Franklin Square w/beautifully landscaped front courtyard. Living rm opens thru an archway to a large formal DR. Charming kitchen opens to wonderful yard & patio w/arbor. A/C & copper pipes. Cozy family rm & hm office.