June 2013

Los Feliz Ledger Vol 8. No. 12

Voter Turnout for Mayoral Race At All Time Low of 19%

Read by 100,000+ Residents and Business Owners in Los Feliz, Silver Lake, Atwater Village, Echo Park & Hollywood Hills

June 2013

Garcetti and O’Farrell Victorious

Local Neighborhoods Significantly Higher

By Colin Stutz Ledger Contributing Writer Despite being the most expensive mayor’s race in Los Angeles’ history, a record low amount of voters turned out for the May 21st general election to select a handful of the city’s most powerful officials—city controller, city attorney and four city council seats among them as well.

By the city clerk’s unofficial results released the following day, just 19% of the city’s registered voters cast ballots—345,207 of 1,797,318 in all. Even if this rate rises towards 25% as it’s expected to after all absentee and provisional ballots are counted, this see TURNOUT page 4

Newly elected Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti celebrates at his election night headquarters May 21st, while newly elected Council District 13 city councilmember Mitch O’Farrell was also enjoying the evening at the Saint Felix Hollywood. Garcetti photo: Sandoval Media. O’Farrell photo by Colin Stutz.

Garectti May Be Boss Now, But O’Farrell’s Taking On CD13

Choi Hints At CD13 Election Challenge

By Colin Stutz and Allison C. Ferraro

ECHO PARK—Defeated L.A. City Council District 13 candidate John Choi’s supporters set up a podium at Mohawk Bend when their candidate was behind by seven points after midnight on May 22nd. Choi took the microphone and delivered a speech, which didn’t include the word concession.

The losing candidate told the small crowd of supporters he would continue to fight to better for the community, while alluding to accusations of voter fraud hurled at each side.

“I’ll do everything I can to make sure the true story of the campaign is told,” he said.

In an interview, Choi declined to comment on challenging the vote, the effect of low voter turnout—which was 15%

LOS ANGELES—According to newly elected Los Angeles City Councilmember Mitch O’Farrell, he wore out two pairs of shoes walking precincts in advance of his May 21st win over opponent John Choi by 1,332 votes.

While the margin of victory—with O’Farrell taking 53% of the vote compared to Choi’s 47%—is still unofficial

by City Clerk standards, Choi has hinted he might challenge the results (see story at right) while O’Farrell was busy last week putting assembling a transition team to help him get staffed for his first official day on the job, July 1st.

Last Friday, he spoke on the steps of Los Angeles City

Community News: Refurbished Echo Park Lake re-opens June 15th, page 3

Hall promising supporters he would keep the momentum his predecessor—and now Mayor Eric Garcetti— started in Council District 13 (CD13): continuing improvements along Sunset Boulevard, in Atwater Village, Echo Park and revitalizing East Hollywood with improved basic infrastructure.

But he said he could not do it alone.

“Input from the community will be first with all of my deliberations. It’s your neighborhood and you need to have a say in how it grows,” he said.

“I’ve seen a lot of changes take place here. And I can tell you this: The 13th district is on the see O’FARRELL page 6

Community News: OMGC program unites children with imprisoned mothers, page 5

By Tony Cella, Ledger Contributing Writer

Local Politics: The GGPNC changes its name to Los Feliz Neighborhood Council, page 12

Defeated CD13 candidate John Choi, earlier in his campaign, addressing Los Angeles City Workers.

citywide—or a possible second run at the council seat.

Instead, Choi—whom had he been elected would have been the first KoreanAmerican to sit on Los Angeles City Council—said he respected the voters who chose his opponent, Mitch O’Farrell.

“Whom the voters chose isn’t the issue,” he said. “The

School News: Congratulations to all our local graduates, pages 16-19

issue is whether the votes were handled properly.”

Choi’s campaign manager, Shaun Daniels, said he believed there was voter theft during the campaign and thought, regardless of whether O’Farrell’s victory was challenged, at least an investigation should occur. see CHOI page 8

Calendar: Summer’s Upon Us: Dan Fante reads at Skylight Books this month, losfelizledger.com

Los Feliz Ledger [letter from the publisher] Congratulations to former Los Angeles City Council District 13 Councilmember Eric Garcetti on his Mayoral election. For many years, I have had the pleasure of editing Eric’s copy for his monthly column in the Ledger. And each month, his column has surprised me with how active, engaged, smart and current he is.

Our city should benefit from these strong attributes he possesses. I will miss his column in this paper and interacting with his staff, but, starting with our July edition, his successor Mitch O’Farrell will be writing his own column detailing his work, vision, tribulations and triumphs in CD13.

Congratulations also to you Mitch.

Every year about this time, I start wanting to plan for the Los Feliz Village Street Fair, but it seems, every year the Los Feliz Business Improvement District (LFVBID) who sponsors the event hasn’t chosen a date yet. I had one of our reporters, Tony Cella, call the LFVBID’s president Chris Serrano about this and other items related to the organization’s business—which is funded by yearly assessments on every business owner in Los Feliz. Serrano refused to speak with our reporter and he has not received returned communications from the LFVBID’s secretary either. I

did find, however, through a google search that it appears this year’s Fair will be Saturday, Sept. 7, 2013 from noon to 11 p.m. on Hillhurst Avenue. But don’t expect to see any advertising of this event in the paper. The LFVBID still has not paid its $2,300 bill from advertising last year’s event in the Ledger. It’s hard to understand that we as business owners put our trust in such an organization that will not return the local paper’s phone calls or pay its bills. I have no

personal dislike of the LFVBID. I just want information to pass along to our readers and advertising invoices paid in a timely manner and believe this is a reasonable request.

Finally, this month we start a new column called “Buy Local,” compiled and written by our talented columnist Kathy McDonald. The column will feature new storefronts and businesses to the community to help keep us buying local, right here in our very special neighborhood.

Los Feliz Ledger Online Read these additional stories only at losfelizledger.com •

• • • • •

Politics: Reflections on California’s Constitution and Protecting Rights for the LGBT community, by California Assemblymember Mike Gatto Recreation: See Colin Stutz’s longer version of the soonto-be reopening and refurbished Echo Park Lake Good Life: Summer’s here and columnist Tara de Lis says it’s time to Pop Open a Pale Ale A Dog’s Life: Canines now on hand at LAX to ease traveler anxiety Eastside Eye: Kathy McDonald previews this summer at the Hollywood Bowl.

Out and About: Our Picks on Things to Do In June

Pick up a copy at these locations: Citibank 1965 N. Hillhurst Ave. The Dresden 1760 N. Vermont Ave. News Stand at Vermont and Melbourne Skylight Books 1818 N. Vermont Ave. Atwater Public Library 3379 N. Glendale Blvd.

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Story ideas, submissions, advertising rates & inquiries contact: Allison Cohen Ferraro 4459 Avocado St. Los Angeles, CA 90027 Phone: 323-667-9897 Fax: 323-667-1816 acohen@losfelizledger.com www. losfelizledger.com

Griffin O. Cohen

Last month we asked readers to tell us in advance whom they would be voting for in the Mayor’s race as well as City Council District 13. Readers overwhelmingly picked the winners: 75% of readers chose Eric Garcetti for Mayor while 82% voted in our survey for Mitch O’Farrell.

This month’s poll: The Greater Griffith Park Neighborhood Council voted to change its name May 23rd to the Los Feliz Neighborhood Council.

• I think the name change is good.

• I don’t like the name change.

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June 2013

Los Feliz Ledger

Echo Park Lake Reopens June 15th

By Colin Stutz, Ledger Contributing Writer ECHO PARK—With a June 15th reopening of Echo Park Lake, the Eastside will soon get its “29 acres of paradise” back, as Los Angeles City Engineer Gary Lee Moore recently referred to the neighborhood’s prized park.

Following a two-year, $45-million makeover, the fencing and tarps surrounding the property will soon come down, revealing a revamped and cleaned up park space featuring 160 more trees and a full water-wise upgrade.

Moore guided on May 10th then Los Angeles City Councilmember and now Mayor of Los Angeles Eric Garcetti, along with councilmembers Jan Perry and Ed Reyes, and State Assemblymembers Kevin de León and Jimmy Gomez around the site.

Moore said the 28-million-gallon lakebed now has a one-foot clay bottom layer so water will be retained and won’t soak through to the ground as it once did. And

[Buy Local]

New in the Neighborhood

the new pathway that ribbons around the lake is made of porous asphalt with a watercollecting pipe system underneath that will help keep the lake filled.

Walking by the 376 recently planted lotus in some of the new four acres of wetlands, Moore joked: “You can count them or take my word for it.”

The nets covering the plants are to protect them from potential damage caused by birds and will remain there for a year.

“They’re so fragile that until they get established, who wants to take a chance?” he said.

The lake’s overhaul was

funded by the water cleanup and improvement bond measure Proposition O, which Garcetti and Perry co-authored and voters approved in 2004.

“This Echo Park Lake was an ideal Prop O project,” said Perry during a press conference, standing before the returned 35,000-pound Lady Of The Lake statue. “In 2006, the lake was impaired by algae, ammonia, copper, lead, odors and trash. What was once a beloved spot for families and children needed to be fixed and thanks to Prop O we were able to enhance this park and improve the environment here.”

Garcetti remarked on the improvements of the neighborhood over these years, praising

the lake as “an iconic setting” for film, literature and art.

“Like the surrounding neighborhood the park had fallen on some hard times,” he said. “This is a neighborhood as bold as this park transformed. And it’s an exclamation point on the work that we have done throughout our neighborhoods. . . The lake is ‘like a cocoon ready unfurl its wings,’ he said.

The project came in at almost half its original budget of $84 million, according to Moore, thanks to “teamwork and a lot of good project management.”

What was found when the lake was drained and what else does the future hold for the lake?

Read more at losfelizledger.com

By Kathy A. McDonald, Ledger Contributing Writer The Los Feliz Ledger introduces a new monthly column covering new-tothe-area businesses and local business updates. Have you opened a business recently and want to share the information with neighbors and customers? Expanded or improved? Send us an email via editor@losfelizledger.com.

Here’s to creative commerce and local spends.

Hyperion Public Reminiscent of a British pub, Hyperion Public is actually three spaces: a cozy upper bar with booths and multiple TVs (sports are big here), a casual rustic-style dining room that opens to Hyperion Avenue and an outdoor streetside terrace that will soon have a BBQ grill on weekends. Founded by three dads who met at their sons’ pre-school, partners Akida Mashaka, John Speaks and Paddy Aubrey stress their commitment to community and the spot’s welcome-to-all vibe.

On the menu is “unique American comfort food,” says Aubrey such as fried chicken, turkey sliders and a daily mac-n-cheese plus lighter fare like a quinoa Greek salad. As much as possible, the team sources locally – the hamburger buns and bread are from Atwater’s Village Bakery for instance.

Almost every night, there’s entertainment from live music on Tuesdays, bingo on Wednesdays to karaoke Thursdays and deejays spinning on Saturday night. On tap are craft beers and a full bar with cocktails named for local sites, like the Hyperion Sling. Open seven days (2 a.m. close Thurs.-Sat. nights), lunch on Fridays and weekend brunch. Free valet June 2013

parking.

2538 Hyperion Ave. (323) 761-6440 hyperionpublic.com Caffe Vita An outpost of the Seattle coffee roasting company, now in the former Uncle Jer’s space opposite the Vista Theater, Caffe Vita serves artisan brewed coffee blends, cappuccino, espresso and a potent espresso ice. Coffee beans have been carefully sourced, some directly from sustainable coffee growers. The tempting pastries are from Cake Monkey and granola comes from Seattle.

Inside, the brick-walled space is currently set off by a rock-n-roll photo exhibit.

There’s a small upstairs loft with additional seating. Outside, the seating is handcrafted Adirondack chairs made from repurposed skateboard decks. Open everyday: weekdays 6 a.m.- 10 p.m., weekends 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Free WiFi for customers.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

Page 3

Los Feliz Ledger turnout from page 1

will mark the city’s all-time lowest voter turnout to elect a new mayor.

With a 21% turnout in the primary of March and 2009’s dismal 17% reelection Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa that was the lowest-turn-out-ever in a LA mayoral race, some have called this a trend of the “disappearing” Los Angeles voter.

“There are structural reasons that usually mean that L.A. city elections have lower turnout than state and federal ones,” said Raphael Sonenshein, executive director of the Pat Brown Institute for Public Affairs at CSU Los Angeles. “The elections are nonpartisan, which usually drives turnout down; they are held only five months or so after a massive presidential election, and voters and organizers are burned out [and] city issues tend to be less interesting to voters than big issues like the economy.”

That the new mayor-elect Eric Garcetti and his opponent Wendy Greuel were both “reasonable candidates, either of whom would have made a fine mayor,” said Sonenshein, might have also played a roll in the public’s apathy.

“There were few issue differences between them and neither of them represented a core racial ethnic or other identity community that would drive turnout,” he said. “So fewer people than usual had an incentive to vote either to put ‘their’ person in office or to keep the other one out.”

Sonenshein added, this too reflects “broader trends in American politics of political disinterest during hard economic times.”

Voter turnout has been dropping in Los Angeles for

years. At the height of the country’s political engagement, the city’s 1969 mayoral primary election saw a record 76% voter turnout when Sam

to recruit poll workers. Voter guides are distributed through community partners, such as libraries, fire stations and government offices. “Get Out to

an outreach budget, including actual expenditures and for an additional 10 people’s salaries.

“For our part, I think the city clerk is responsible for

Voter turnout has been dropping in Los Angeles for years.

At the height of the country’s political engagement, the city’s 1969 mayoral primary election saw a record 76% voter turnout when Sam Yorty edged out Tom Bradley. But the decline since then has been relatively steady: 20 years ago, in 1993, 45% of registered voters cast ballots in Richard Riordan’s election. In Villaraigosa’s 2005 election, turnout was at 34%.

Yorty edged out Tom Bradley.

But the decline since then has been relatively steady: 20 years ago, in 1993, 45% of registered voters cast ballots in Richard Riordan’s election. In Villaraigosa’s 2005 election, turnout was at 34%.

According to the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk, 24,007 new voters were registered in Los Angeles since the March 5 primary election.

When asked about low voter turnout, City Clerk election division spokesperson Maria Garcia said she had no “correct” answer or explanation.

“What we try to do is make the information in the upcoming election as accessible as possible for the general public,” she said.

Such efforts include voter outreach and education campaigns, partnering with about 20 community-based organizations in the city to leverage resources for voter outreach.

Representatives attend over 150 events leading up to the elections to register voters and inform the public on voting by mail, multilingual services, dispense voter guides and try

Vote” posters are installed in bus shelters and digital billboards also promote the election. A multimedia strategy is put in effect as well. In all, the city spends about $500,000 on

making sure the information is available to Angelenos and I think we’re doing that quite well in a variety of ways,” said Garcia.

In Council District 13,

which saw a city council race as its current representative Garcetti was being termed out, the voter turnout was only slightly better at about 22% compared to the city’s 19% on the early, unofficial canvass. Its neighborhoods of Silver Lake, Echo Park and Atwater Village, specifically, saw a slight improvement in voter turnout over the city’s total figure. Those neighborhoods combined had some 27% percent of registered voters turn out.

Individually, Atwater Village had about 34% voter turnout; Silver Lake had about 27% and Echo Park had more than 24%.

These neighborhoods voted in strong support of Garcetti, giving him a majority in each of their precincts.

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June 2013

Los Feliz Ledger

Program Unites Children With Imprisoned Mothers for A Belated Mother’s Day Visit

By Tony Cella, Ledger Contributing Writer LOS FELIZ—Sitting at a folding table wearing pink pajamas, Genisis Carrillo, 9, colored in the night sky around the star stickers she had placed on her Mother’s Day Card.

She was delivering the card a week because Genisis, like the other children she rode the bus with that night, May 17th, was on the way to see her mom, an inmate in Folsom State Prison, for the first time in almost a year.

Genisis, along with her two sisters and 25 children and their chaperones, were participating in a program called “Get On The Bus,” which provides children the opportunity to visit their mothers in prison. The program, which was founded 14 years ago, partnered with churches across the state to raise $6,000 for expenses, according to Karen Van de Laat, the president of the organization.

Genisis was making the card at Vermont Avenue’s Our Mother of Good Counsel. The church furnished pizza for the kids and guardians to ride along on the bus trip. Six students from Immaculate Heart high and middle schools made

50 blankets to keep the bus riders warm, and volunteers from the church assembled activity bags with games, books and toys to help the kids occupy their time during the 403 mile ride.

Immaculate Heart freshman Alexandra Stella helped craft the blankets as part of the school’s service team. Volunteering at the event tied in with the scripture of the Beatitudes, she said, and the church’s teachings about charity.

Jennifer Tolentino, a parishioner at Our Mother of Good Counsel, labeled and organized shirts for the bus riders. Tolentino’s experience as a mother moved her to help.

“I can’t imagine being separated from my kids,” she said.

Female prisoners go through a screening process to participate in the program and must maintain good behavior to be eligible for a Mother’s Day visit.

Genisis said she was excited to see her mother, who was sent away last June. She said she looked forward to telling her mom about the books she

had been reading: “Big Nate,” “The Diary of a Wimpy Kid” and The Magic Tree House series.

Her 7-yearold sister, Amanda, planned on telling her mom about what she had recently learned in school about dinosaurs, and how the “cold air” killed off the plant eating reptiles leav- A child’s chalk drawing for her mother at Folsom Prison. Photo courtesy: “Get On the Bus.” ing nothing for the bigger carnivorous anifor post-traumatic stress dis16 months. When the young mals to eat. order after their mother’s imman’s mother was sent to prisThe mother of Genisis, prisonment. Martin, who lives on, Fealings said he would cry Amanda, and their sister, near Cyprus, said she hoped all the time and didn’t trust 6-year-old Joanna, went to her daughter would seek counanyone. prison for home burglaries and seling during her prison stay as “He woke at all times of stealing cars, according to the well. the night,” she said. “Get on girls’ grandmother, Darlene “She needs to be a whole the Bus,” Fealings said, is a Martin. Her daughter, she person for these girls,” Martin “big blessing,” as Fealings said said, had been drinking heavsaid, who has had custody of previously she nor her grandily and may have been doing the girls for three years. son had a way to get to Foldrugs again.

Tanya Fealings of South som.

The pauses grew beCentral said her daughter went “After he sees his mom, tween sentences as Martin’s away after she killed a man in for the next six months it’ll be discussed her daughter. She a fight. Fealings was bringing like he ate a bunch of candy said her granddaughters went her 8-year-old grandson to see and is jumping all over the through extensive counseling his mom for the first time in place,” she said.

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5/13/13 Page 10:04 AM5 COMMUNITY NEWS

Los Feliz Ledger

Crime Strikes Silver Lake Jogging Path

By Tony Cella, Ledger Contributing Writer

Los Angeles Breakfast Club Join us Wednesdays at 7 – 9 am

Upcoming speakers and programs...

June 5: Debbie Smith, Fred Jordan Mission “Homeless and The Hungry” June 12: Saul Jacobs & Bob Lipson, USC Emeriti College - Golden Age of American Popular Music Series “Magical Musical Movie Moments” June 19: Stacy Taylor, Development Director Gary Sinise Foundation - “Serving Our Nation by Honoring Our Defenders,Veterans, First Responders, Their Families and Those In Need” June 26: Jim Weaver, Executive Director Emeritus Angel Flight West - “Angel Flight West-A Mission of Charity”

SILVER LAKE—According to the Los Angeles Police Dept.

(LAPD), runners along the Silver Lake Reservoir’s jogging path were attacked by a group of Hispanic males once during the last week of April and another the second week of May. Both times the robbers, according to LAPD Det. Lisa Guverno, targeted easy to resale portable MP3 players, headphones and cellular phones. Police described the suspects between the ages of 18 and 20 with heights of 5’8” to 6’ and driving a tan, silver

or grey Honda or Toyota fourdoor sedan.

According to the LAPD website, two suspects approached a jogger on April 29th between Silver Lake Blvd. and Armstrong Ave. and demanded property. When the victim refused, a suspect showed him a gun in his waistband. Police say the victim then handed over the property and the suspects rushed to a get-away vehicle.

The next theft occurred on May 6th around 8 p.m. close to Silver Lake Blvd. and

Hawick St., when three suspects “tackled” a jogger from behind and stole his property.

“We believe it to be the same group of people,” based on witness accounts of the men’s descriptions and vehicle, said another LAPD spokesperson.

Although the attacks have since ceased, police recommend joggers don’t run alone, avoid scheduling exercise in the evening hours and be mindful of their surroundings and leaving wallets and expensive electronics at home.

O’FARRELL from page 1

O’Farrell’s campaign expenses were $497,716. Money raised, including contributions and city matching funds were $502,388. He received $234,547 in independent expenditures.

The commission reported Choi’s expenses were $815,187 while raising $813,418. Choi also received $684,342 in independent expenditures.

Regarding the long and increasingly contentious campaign—which saw accusations on both sides of voter fraud and theft—O’Farrell promised to heal divisions.

“That’s what I am known for,” he said, “I’m a coalition builder.”

Regarding other parts of CD13, O’Farrell said he would

continue to bring the glamour of Hollywood back—the area’s turnaround was a key success of Garcetti’s—and work to “stop runaway film production.”

And in reference to the city as a whole, he said he wants to help create more affordable housing, reform how the city deals with small businesses, grow the public transit system and key, he said, would be being smarter about public safety.

“I know the next four years will be a challenge. We will have tough choices to make,” he said, “and some may even be painful. But I am ready for that challenge.

That is the main reason you brought me here to this place today.”

rise. The energy is contagious.”

O’Farrell who has lived in the district for 31 years, also promised not to change his cell phone.

“Government works best for the people when it works with the people. That is why I will always have an open door policy,” he said.

In the next six weeks, he said, he said he would be composing a staff, a task, he said, that will not be difficult.

“There’s so much talent in the 13th district. And I can say this: My staff, my administration will be representative of the district.”

According to a Los Angeles City Ethics commission report through May 15th,

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Los Feliz Ledger choi from page 1

Whole Foods Coming to the Neighborhood

By Colin Stutz, Ledger Contributing Writer SILVER LAKE—Before long, fans of high-end health food will have another shopping option in the neighborhood.

According to a spokesperson for Whole Foods Market, the popular natural foods supermarket has made a commitment to occupy the 2520 Glendale Blvd. building in the Silver Ridge Plaza where a Ralphs is currently located near the busy intersection of Glendale Boulevard and Fletcher Drive. She would not confirm timing or other details.

According to Laurie Arroyo, Partner at Western Realty, the plaza’s property manager, Whole Foods will also use the small commercial space to the north where the 20 Video, Round Table Pizza and Baskin Robbins were formerly

located. She said the building would not be getting a remodeling but, rather, a “facelift.”

As for the CVS pharmacy next door along the strip of storefronts, Arroyo said, “We believe that they will be staying open.”

For the past year rumors have been circling over what would become of this complex after leasing tenant’s shops started closing one-by-one.

One such rumor had been a housing development with underground parking. Another was an outdoor Grove-like mall was coming, or an expansion of Ralphs.

In addition to the new Whole Foods, about four miles away in East Hollywood, at the corner of Sunset Boulevard and Western Avenue, a Target is in developments.

face of the accusations made against his campaign.

Looking back on the race, Daniels said he “wouldn’t

ers, Choi hinted at an investigation and thanked those in Daniels also said holding the crowd. elections in spring was a disser“We’ll see what happens vice because the rich and eduover the next coucated, he said, were the main Daniels also said holding elections in ple days, the next couple weeks,” he voting block to spring was a disservice because the said. “But whatshow up. In “the popular zeitrich and educated, he said, were the ever happens, I love you guys. I geist” elections main voting block to show up. love you guys so are held in Nomuch.” vember, he said. change a thing.

I would work Daniels said he was proud for Choi again. Anytime, anyEditor’s Note: This story has been of the campaign Choi waged where,” he said. updated since it was first posted at and said he admired the “inIn comments to supportlosfelizledger.com May 22nd. tegrity” Choi showed in the

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2438 EL CONTENTO DR, BEACHWOOD

$1,229,000

1428 WESTERLY TER, SILVER LAKE

$749,000

1940’s 3+2 traditional, on cul de sac in park-like cyn w/ stream, bridge, balconies, hrdwd flrs & period details.

3BR/3BA, 1927 Spanish w/cyn views, double lot, orig detail, well-maintained, 1st time on market in 40 years.

Short Sale | Bright 4BR/2.5BA w/great cty views. For-

Melody Rogers

Howard Stevens

Howard Lorey

3852 SENECA AVE, ATWATER

323.876.5636

$659,000

3532 MADERA AVE, ATWATER VILLAGE

323.376.0005

$550,000

mal LR, DR & fam rm, f/p, nice yrd & attached 2car grg.

1351 N ORANGE DR #217, HOLLYWOOD

323.251.4553

$268,000

Two character Spanish 2br/1ba homes on a lot in Atwater Village, delivered vacant. A rare find!

Adorable 2BR/1BA w/ hrdwd flrs, spacious kit, character details, large yard & 1 car grg turned into sound studio.

Bright top flr condo w/ beautiful light wd flrs, open flr plan, mirrored closet drs & in secure bldg.

Shannon Fenton

Mark Walker

Mark Walker

310.365.6118

818.438.3342

818.438.3342

HOLLYWOOD Tel: 323.462.6262 I BEVERLY HILLS Tel: 310.274.4000 I BRENTWOOD Tel: 310.300.3333 I For additional photos and properties, please visit us at: www.nourmand.com

Page 8

COMMUNITY NEWS

www.losfelizledger.com

June 2013

Los Feliz Ledger

[real estate]

Southland Median Price Nears 5 Year High But Not in Los Feliz or the Hollywood Hills

By Allison C. Ferraro Southern California homes sold at the fastest pace for an April in seven years amid the release of pent-up demand for move-up homes and high levels of investor purchases, according to DataQuick, a San Diego based real estate reporting firm.

The median sale price rose to a 58-month high, reflecting both home price appreciation as well as the simultaneous plunge in foreclosure resales and a surge in mid-to-up-market buying, DataQuick reported.

According to DataQuick, a total of 21,415 new and resale houses and condos sold in Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, Ventura, San Bernardino and Orange counties last month. That was up 4.1% from 20,581 sales in March, and up 9.5% from 19,562 sales in April 2012.

Last month’s sales were the highest for the month of April since 27,114 Southland homes sold in April 2006, but they were 11.8% below the overall April average of 24,291 sales.

The low for April sales was 15,303 in 1995, while the high

was 37,905 in April 2004.

“This is a market that is still re-balancing. Sales of deeply discounted properties in affordable neighborhoods are way down. Activity in middle and high-end communities is on its way up. Now it’s catch-up time, with a healthier economy spurring more demand and rising prices tempting more people to put their homes up for sale,” said John Walsh, DataQuick president.

The median price paid for all new and resale houses and condos sold in the six-county Southland was $357,000 last month, up 3.3% from $345,500 in March and up 23.1% from $290,000 in April 2012. Last month’s median was the highest since June 2008, when the median was $360,000.

The median has risen on a year-over-year basis for 13 consecutive months, and those gains have been doubledigit—between 10.8% and 23.5 %—since last August.

Still, last month’s median remained 29.3% below the peak $505,000 median in spring and summer 2007.

Sales rose 35.4% yearover-year in the $300,000 to $800,000 price range – a range that would include many moveup buyers. The number sold for $500,000 or more shot up 52.7% from one year earlier and was at the highest level in just over 5-1/2 years. Sales of $800,000-plus homes increased 51.4% year-over-year.

In April, 29.9% of all Southland home sales were $500,000-plus—the highest for any month since April 2008, when 31.1% of sales reached or crossed the $500,000 threshold.

Last month’s $500,000-plus level was up from 27.9% of sales in March and 21.0 % a year earlier.

However, locally, the higher end single-family home markets of Los Feliz (90027) and the Hollywood Hills (90068) did not follow the increase in median price trend. In the Los Feliz area, the median price for home sales in April, compared to the same time last year, were down 9% to $963,000. In April, a total of 16 single-family homes sold in Los Feliz. Likewise, in the Hollywood Hills area (90068) the median price fell,

year over year 14.5% to a median price of $806,000, based on 32 homes sold in April.

However, in both the Los Feliz and Hollywood Hills markets, the median price for condos in April did very well.

Los Feliz saw a median price gain of 63% over last year, with five such properties being sold. Similarly, in the Hollywood Hills area, the median price for a condo rose 12.6% compared to last year based on

the eight properties sold.

In other areas, the Echo Park area (90026) the median price for a single-family home rose 14.7% compared to last year. No data were available for condos.

Silver Lake (90039) saw increases in both areas. The median price for a single-family home was up 7.8% compared to last year based on 19 sales, while condos rose 7.2% year over year, with 2 properties sold.

East Meets West at 2052 Ames Street in Los Feliz

O

n the market for the first time since 1950: a lovinglymaintained, unspoiled, English cottage with an extraordinary and authentic Japanese “farmhouse” detached guest house. The quaint character curb appeal with romantic cabbage roses twining by the sidewalk belies a 1/4-acre+ lot with much off-street parking and a succession of intimate Japanese gardens crowned by the “farmhouse”-plus, a gazebo, pool, spa, sauna, pond, fountain, waterfall, Japanese stone basins, outbuidings and mature plantings.

Franklin School.

5 bedrooms; 3.5 baths; den, about 3,000 square feet per the owners.

Web site: www.2052ames.com YouTube video: search “2052 Ames” $1,399,000 Richard Stanley Estates Director Architectural and Historic Properties Specialist rstanley@coldwellbanker.com 213 300-4567 cell / voice mail ©2013 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Coldwell Banker is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Owned and operated by NRT LLC. All rights reserved. If your property is listed with another broker, this is not intended as a solicitation. BRE license #: 00971211

June 2013

www.losfelizledger.com

Su Casa REAL ESTATE

Page 9

Los Feliz Ledger

KAREN LOWER COLDWELL BANKER BEVERLY HILLS - NORTH

www.karenlower.net

Living & Working in Your Neighborhood

NEW LISTING LOS FELIZ $1,599,000 Country English view home offers a stunning blend of old-world charm and sophisticated modern updates.

Dramatic formal living and dining rooms offer beautiful picture windows to views of the canyons and city twinkling lights at night and an abundance of natural light by day. Eat-in kitchen with large

www.3756EffinghamPlace.com walk-in pantry leads to outdoor dining area.

4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, large romantic Master with fireplace, den plus large office/studio. Excellent indoor-outdoor flow to huge lush flat grassy yard with five fruit-bearing trees, views, and room for pool. Easy access to Griffith Park’s hiking trails, seconds to fwy, and Village shops and restaurants.

NEW LISTING & PENDING LOS FELIZ $ 1,199,000 Sold in Multiple Offers 1930’s Traditional offers a perfect blend of historic charm and detail and current style and design.

A formal entry leads to a gorgeous living room with 10’ ceilings, original casement windows and dramatic floor to ceiling stone fireplace. The new kitchen features stone counters, custom cabinetry and pure white appliances.

www.2111Ames.com A media room features a 2nd fireplace, built-in book shelves and new cork flooring plus a stunning 3/4 bath with access to the backyard patio, grassy yard and new pool! A Master suite offers a gorgeous new bathroom and plenty of closets.

2 additional bedrooms and full bath complete the home. Close to Village shops and restaurants.

NEW LISTING & PENDING

NEW LISTING & IN ESCROW

MALIBU $ 1,150,000

SILVER LAKE $699,000

www.OldChimneyRoad.com

1228 Sanborn Avenue

Sold in Multiple Offers Dreaming of ocean breezes? This super cool ocean view home by Malibu’s very own resident architect Clive Dawson A.I.A. offers extra tall vaulted ceilings and walls of glass capturing the gorgeous topography surrounding this understated treasure located on a private street just 6 minutes from PCH.

Sold in Multiple Offers California Bungalow infused wtih a fresh contemporary style offers a gorgeous new kitchen and 2.5 new baths. Dark rich hardwood floors throughout and an abundance of natural light make this a warm and inviting home. A Master suite features a marble bath with extra large shower and French doors. A single car garage plus separate bonus space offers room for a home office/studio.

Lovely grassy yard, all gated and move-in ready.

Just a couple blocks from Sunset Junction!

FOR LEASE

Reservoir To Be Drained For Construction

By Tony Cella, Ledger Contributing Writer SILVER LAKE—The Dept. of Water and Power (LADWP) plans on draining the Silver Lake Reservoir as part of a construction plan to bring the city’s water system into compliance with federal regulations against storing drinking water in exposed basins. Construction is slated to begin in late 2014 or early 2015. According to a department spokesperson, a community meeting to discuss the project is planned for June.

The estimated $40 million construction project will last for 18 months, according to the LADWP, with the reservoir being drained for one year while the pipe is laid.

The current plan is an alternative to placing the pipeline underneath Silver Lake Boulevard, which would involve significant digging on one of the neighborhood’s main thoroughfares.

Sending the pipeline through the reservoir was proposed because the original plans involved digging underneath old sycamore trees, according to Michael Masterson of the Silver Lake Neighborhood Council.

“Some neighbors noticed red paint on the bottom of the trees,” he said, and became alarmed.

The current alternative will still require digging up an approximate 1,500 feet of West Silver Lake Boulevard to install the pipe. During this four to five month period, the jogging path will be diverted through the reservoir.

Some residents have voiced concerns that the prolonged drain and construction will spew dust into the air, risking the health and recreational opportunities of neighborhood residents.

Pablo Castillo, a student living near the reservoir, said he uses the jogging path almost everyday. He was worried trucks and equipment in and around the basin will disrupt his use of the jogging path and worsen traffic in the already congested neighborhood.

“The construction will make it more difficult to go to the grocery store, go to school and for residents to have access to their homes,” he said. “[And] if there’s more dust in the air, it’ll be bad for joggers with asthma,” he said.

LADWP spokesperson Jane Galbraith hadn’t heard of health concerns regarding the project. She also claimed the construction project won’t interfere with recreation activity in the dog park and grassy areas near the reservoir. The LADWP, she said, plans on using soil binders, water trucks and “other methods to control particulate matter,” in an attempt to ground potential dust storms.

“The reservoir is lined with asphalts on the sides. The bottom is silt,” she said. “In terms of particulate matter, that’s the first I’ve heard of it [concerns].”

Galbraith said that after construction is finished the reservoir will be re-filled with non-potable water.

SILVER LAKE

www.1839Maltman.com $6,500/month Available July 1st. Panoramic city views are captured from each of the three levels; Observatory to ocean! Generous Master offers spa-like bath, terrace, walk-in closet and built-in cabinetry. The main level features an open floor plan with kitchen, dining and living areas flowing seamlessly to a generous outdoor terrace with fire pit. The lower level offers loft like functional space for 2 bedrooms, full bath, plus generous storage areas. Just seconds to Sunset Junction.

Page 10 Su Casa REAL ESTATE

www.losfelizledger.com

June 2013

PATRICIA RUBEN

LISTING AND SELLING THE HISTORIC HOMES OF LOS FELIZ #1 Producing Agent at Sotheby’s International Realty Los Feliz in 2011 #1 Producing Agent in 90027 with over 16 million sold in 2011 and over 18 million sold in 2012* SOLD

SOLD

1926 N HOBART BLVD Offered at $3,100,000

SOLD

5507 RIDGE OAK DR Offered at $1,675,000

4860 GLENCAIRN RD Offered at $2,450,000

IN ESCROW

SOLD

2338 CHISLEHURST DR Offered at $3,395,000

2216 E LIVE OAK DR Offered at $1,599,000

PATRICIA RUBEN DRE# 01262286

Sotheby’s International Realty - Los Feliz Brokerage 323.671.2310 - Patricia.Ruben@sothebyshomes.com

4625 Dundee Drive

ONLY ONE.

Approximately ¾ acre.

$5,200,000 Entertain for 100’s On one of the most prestigious streets in Los Feliz LOS FELIZ BROKERAGE 801 North Hillhurst Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90027 sothebyshomes.com/losangeles

*Data per MarketQuest for the dates ranging from 1.1.2011-12.31.2012 for Single Family Homes, Condos, and Townhomes for the area of 90027

Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc.

Call Patricia Ruben for private showing

Los Feliz Ledger [keen to be green]

Rediscovering the River

By Meher McArthur, Ledger Columnist I recently finished a beautiful morning bicycle ride along the Los Angeles River. From my bike, I spotted a great blue heron scanning the water for fish, a mother mallard guiding her eight adorable babies through waterweeds, and a huge coyote emerging from his leafy hideout. Cycling along the river rich and alive with wild creatures was one of the most uplifting, green experiences I’ve had in Los Angeles.

been organizing annual river clean-ups (folar.org), and recent efforts by the city, nonprofits like the Los Angeles River Revitalization Corporation (thelariver.com) and even media corporations have been transforming sections of the river back into the natural wonderland that it was before its concrete face-lift.

Bike paths and bridges are drawing more and more cyclists for quiet rides and for events like the LA County Bi-

After devastating floods in 1938, our main waterway was turned into a soulless concrete channel, and for many years it has been further spoiled by graffiti and trash.

Until recently, the Los Angeles River hasn’t exactly been a top destination for nature lovers. After devastating floods in 1938, our main waterway was turned into a soulless concrete channel, and for many years it has been further spoiled by graffiti and trash.

But things have changed.

For years, Friends of the Los Angeles River (FoLAR) has

GGPNC Changes its Name to Los Feliz Neighborhood Council

By Tony Cella, Ledger Contributing Writer LOS FELIZ—The Greater Griffith Park Neighborhood Council (GGPNC) voted 13-3 with one member abstaining to change its name to the Los Feliz Neighborhood Council (LVNC) during a special meeting May 23rd.

Councilmembers in favor said the new moniker represented the organization’s purpose of acting on behalf of stakeholders as opposed to “park stewardship” and would benefit outreach efforts.

Vice President Lisa Sedano said she it was difficult to explain “GGPNC” to interested parties because the organizational title did not include a neighborhood’s name.

“The name change shows a focus on our relationship with City Hall and stakeholders,” she said.

Opponents, including the Franklin Hills Residents Association and the Los Feliz Improvement Association, claimed changing the name “disenfranchised” other communities within the council’s jurisdiction such as Franklin Hills and Laughlin Hills.

Changing the name also downplayed the integral role of Griffith Park in the neighborhood identity, they said.

Richard Spicer, a former member of the council’s board of governors, said many of the council’s controversial deci-

sions involved the park and that its 4,210 acres comprises a large portion of the council’s governing area. Going further, Spicer said park issues affected the neighborhoods surrounding it.

If the council’s intent was to empower outreach efforts, Spicer said changing the name was the last thing the neighborhood council should do.

“It’s a name that is recognized by city council officials and the appropriate committees,” Spicer said.

About 50 attended the meeting that was contentious at times. Some walked out of the meeting insulting the NAME from page 13

cycle Coalition’s L.A. River Ride (this year June 9th).

An area near the Sepulveda Basin has been open to kayaking tours, and there are new plans to allow non-motorized boating, hiking and fishing along a five-mile stretch in the Glendale Narrows this summer. Fishing, boating, cycling, bird-watching, hiking—all so close to home. That’s my summer taken care of!

A special thank you.... to the Taylor Family of charming Ames Street.

We enjoyed the opportunity to get to know your family and to work on your lovely home.

I look forward to future endeavors.

– Travis Parker & Hillel Nachum T. Parker Consulting DRE# 01915398

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Page 12 Su Casa REAL ESTATE

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www.losfelizledger.com

June 2013

Los Feliz Ledger [city sleuth]

Los Feliz Gardens Featured in Garden Conservancy’s “Open Days”

By Diane Kanner, Ledger Columnist “Open Days,” the Garden Conservancy’s program to showcase and preserve America’s most distinctive public and private gardens, came to Los Feliz on May 5th.

Some 600 visitors walked up steep hills and down narrow garden paths, beginning at Fern Dell—a onetime garden oasis in Griffith Park now sunk to hard times because of municipal budget constraints.

In the process the guests discovered a wide variation in the type of garden: some formal and reliant upon water; others using the principles of water conservation. Overcast skies provided comfortable temperatures and an unshaded perspective of Mother Nature.

“We had 1,000 guests last week for Pasadena Open Days,” coordinator Joseph Marek warned the 40 volun-

NAME from page 12

board as they left. One board member, who voted against the name changed, tendered her resignation from the board immediately after the vote.

Thomas O’Grady, another former board member and a one-time Los Angeles City Council District 4 candidate, voted in favor of changing the name referring to a survey handed out as part of a recent neighborhood council election, which showed a positive response to do so.

However, the poll, which garnered under 500 responses, was questioned by several opponents. Some accused O’Grady of telling elementary school children to vote for the name change. According to the council’s bylaws, the minimum voting age for the neighborhood council is 13.

However, O’Grady said he was willing to stay with the old GGPNC name as a gesture of neighborliness to the Los Feliz Improvement Association.

That organization, founded in 1916, argued both organizations having “Los Feliz” in its name would cause confusion.

Still, O’Grady said he has no warm feelings for the name GGPNC. “I don’t like the name.

I think it [stinks],” he said, drawing gasps, boos and heckling from the crowd.

Councilmembers voting against the name change were Nicola Carter-Gargani; Barbara Ferris and Andrea Iaderosa. Chris McKinley abstained and Rob Menz was not present.

June 2013

teers who gathered the day before to undergo training.

“But that community has participated in Open Days for at least a dozen years, and this is our first time featuring Los Feliz.”

One of the six Open Days gardens belonged to noted garden designer Judy M. Horton, whose practice is located at 136 1/2 N. Larchmont Blvd. While it contained water thirsty plants like hydrangea, the Horton garden proliferated with drought-resistant aloe, pig’s ears, agave and salvia.

“My garden is filled with plants I love,” she said, “from the ordinary, like nasturtiums, poppies and pelargoniums, to the unusual. I try out the more unique by putting them in

pots in the driveway and along the back of the house.”

Horton became an advocate for the Garden Conservancy on the west coast in the 1990s when the New York based non-profit began to expand into the rest of the country. As a garden activist, Horton organized the Coalition to Save the Hannah Carter Japanese Garden that hangs under a legal cloud as Hannah Carter’s heirs fight UCLA over the Japanese Garden’s destiny. In April, an injunction from Los Angeles Superior Court was issued against sale of the property, and UCLA has asked for a hearing in an appeals court.

The Garden Conservancy uses the Open Days program to strengthen the public’s com-

“I’D LOVE TO SELL BUT WHO’D WANT TO BUY MY OLD HOME?” If you’re having this conversation with yourself these days, the answer is one of the many developers out there known as “flippers”.

They fueled the last market run-up before it crashed and are back in droves, starving for inventory, and often paying all cash.

Witness what happened with my most recent sale of a 20’S English fixer on the market for the 1st time in 44 years:

R IXE F ATE B O PR

VED I E C RE S R FFE O 5 -2

2303 RICHLAND AVENUE, LOS FELIZ

mitment to garden preservation.

Selecting gardens that are “living works of art,” the organization uses a set of criteria which can be translated into practical use for those of us who visit nurseries to stock our own yards. The nine criteria for being selected include unity and harmony of design; appropriateness of design to the setting; innovative use of the site or plantings; interesting collection of plants; aesthetic groupings of plants; unique intermingling of plants or colors and textures; aspects that educate, enlighten and inspire the visitor; and finally, ecologically sound design and maintenance techniques.

To track Open Days weekends taking place in other parts of the country, go online to www.gardenconservancy.org. The $5 per garden fee for visitors is a real value.

ASK GAIL of Sotheby’s International Realty

10 Tips to De-clutter your House When Putting it Up for Sale Dear Gail, I’m selling my house. I’ve lived here for over 40 years and there’s so much stuff. I have a hard time throwing out items.

What should I do? I can’t take everything with me.

A: Good point. It’s hard, I know. Most of us live with clutter and have too much furniture. Just remember you’ll get a lot more money for it if it is de-cluttered, as buyers love open space.

Here’s an easier way to go through items and take only what you need.

1. Have family/friends decide what they want 2. Measure your new home determine what you can take with you

$789,000

• 25 OFFERS RECEIVED • 2 BIDDERS ATTENDED THE PROBATE COURT OVERBID HEARING • FINAL SALE: +31% OVER ORIGINAL LIST PRICE So, if you’d like to sell your long time home that’s filled with a lifetime of memories & possessions, that may have some deferred maintenance, and would like similar results, call me for a complementary consultation and market appraisal.

NOW IS THE TIME YOU’VE BEEN WAITING FOR.

M I C H A E L

T U N I C K REAL ESTATE. REAL SERVICE. REAL RESULTS.

3. Hire someone or use family member that you trust to help you sort through items & to move things around for you.

4. Tackle one room at a time. Use plastic bins, boxes & garbage bags to store items in.

5. Label 5 bags, boxes & storage bins: Sell, Give away, Throw away, Save for new home, and Decide later box, bins or bags 6. Once you’ve filled your “throw away’ boxes or bins immediately throw them away.

7. Store your “sell” and “give away” boxes in the garage or somewhere out of sight. Keep your “decide later” and “save for new home” in that room.

8. Do one room at a time. Once finished then go to next room.

9. Create a checklist of each room, check it off once it’s done.

10 . Call charities to arrange for pickups of donations.

You’ll be finished in no time with this plan and ready to get on with your New Life! Call me for more tips.

• 37 years sales + marketing experience • Top 2% of 54,000 Prudential agents nationwide • 21-year Los Feliz resident • Former boardmember Los Feliz Improvement Assoc.

323.646.3893 www.michaeltunick.com

An independently owned and operated member of BRER Affiliates Inc. DRE #01321406.

www.losfelizledger.com

Gail Crosby is a local real estate agent with Sotheby’s International Realty.

Contact Gail with your home and real estate questions at 323.428-2864 or GailCrosby@aol.com DRE: 175513781 ADV

Su Casa REAL ESTATE Page 13

NEW LISTING

LOS FELIZ | 5121 FRANKLIN AVENUE | web: 0284850 | $4,888,000 Lloyd Wright’s Sowden House. Landmark masterpiece designed around central courtyard with extensive use of textile block.

Troy Gregory 323.203.5661 | Aaron Kirman 424.249.7162

LOS FELIZ | 2255 VERDE OAK DR | web: 0285072 | $4,495,000 Lloyd Wright’s 1928 Samuel Novarro House. The Novarro house is a beacon for enthusiasts who appreciate art, architecture and history.

Troy Gregory 323.203.5661 | Aaron Kirman 424.249.7162

LOS FELIZ | MEDITERRANEAN REVIVAL | web: 0307536 | $3,454,000 The Silverman residence displays a musician’s gallery highlighted with original stained glass, 5bd/5.5ba, guest house, pool, spa.

Jeffrey Young 213.819.9630

LOS FELIZ | 4771 CROMWELL AVENUE | web: 0285022 | $2,349,000 A gorgeous example of early mid-century architecture in the best area of Los Feliz. A true promontory 4bd/4.5ba and gated for security and privacy.

Boni Bryant | Joe Reichling 323.395.9084

LOS FELIZ | 4226 DUNDEE DRIVE | web: 0284969 | $2,295,000 Gracious secluded English Manor North of Los Feliz Blvd with private entry behind two modern-day carriage houses and tall hedges. 5 bd/5.5 ba.

Boni Bryant | Joe Reichling 323.395.9084

SOLD

LOS FELIZ | LOS FELIZ MEDITERRANEAN | web: 0307586 | $2,585,000 This classic, 4bd/4.5ba home sits on over 1/3-acre of park-like grounds with a lagoon style pool and spa and detached guest house.

Jeffrey Young 213.819.9630

SOTHEBY’S INTERNATIONAL REALTY LOS FELIZ BROKERAGE

Sotheby’s for schools: Our agents are currently supporting various initiatives at our local learning institutions through an ongoing donation program from closed transactions. To date we have raised over $14,000.00.

IN ESCROW

NEW LISTING

LOS FELIZ | 2333 NOTTINGHAM AVE | web: 0285055 | $2,275,000 Approx. 13,700 plus sq.ft. buildable lot on prestigious Nottingham Ave. Come build your dream.

Travis Parker 310.600.2128

LOS FELIZ | 2293 BRONSON HILL DRIVE | web: 0285021 | $1,799,000 Updated and renovated grand English Manor circa 1926 set above Bronson Canyon in the Los Feliz Oaks. 3 bedrooms/ 3 ½ bath.

Boni Bryant | Joe Reichling 323.395.9084

SOLD

NEW LISTING

LOS FELIZ | 2016 N. GRAMERCY PLACE | web: 0307638 | $1,450,000 A 1933 Mediterranean with 3 bedrooms & 4 baths, a den, a family room, & an office. The property has a round-turret bonus room outside patio area.

Jeffrey Young 213.819.9630

LOS FELIZ | 3634 HOLBORO DR | web: 0284964 | $1,399,000 New price. Completely remodeled 3bd/2.5ba plus separate 1bd/1ba guest/ studio/recreation room. Great area, great views, and flat backyard.

Neviana Hristova 323.578.1051

NEW LISTING

IN ESCROW

LOS FELIZ | 3828 UDELL CT | web: 0307639 | $670,000 Sweet 2 bedroom and 1 bath with den, great Los Feliz location, Rumored to have been one of Disney Studio’s cottage’s.

Jeffrey Young 213.819.9630

LOS FELIZ BROKERAGE MARC GIROUX | VICE PRESIDENT/BROKERAGE MANAGER

1801 North Hillhust Avenue | Los Angeles, CA 90027 | 323.665.1700 | sothebyshomes.com/losangeles Operated by Sotheby’s International Realty, Inc.

NEW PRICE

SILVER LAKE | 2178 KENILWORTH AVE | $1,425,000 Beautiful English, Historic 3 bedroom, 3 bath plus den, mother-in-law suite, pool, and multiple lake views.

Gail Crosby 323.428.2864

SOLD

SILVER LAKE | 2338 SILVER RIDGE AVE | $879,000 Allyn Morris mid-century post and beam duplex in great Silver Lake location. Each unit rented for $2,595/month. Great investment opportunity.

Rob Kallick 323.775.6305

PASADENA | 880 LAGUNA RD | web: 0285056 | $1,598,000 The luxury of 4 bedrooms, including two master suites, and bonus room, brings flexibility in family configurations.

Michelle St. Clair 213.304.4943

PASADENA | 1319 ORANGE GROVE | $629,000 Elegant 1921 Mission style home home offering 3 bedroom and 2 bath.

Represented buyers.

Manvel Tabakian 323.376.2222

Los Feliz Ledger [senior moments]

Having to Downsize

By Stephanie Vendig, Ledger Columnist My longtime friends Sarah and Lou Goldowitz are leaving Los Angeles. They have lived in the Franklin Hills for 50 years, and their destination is Petaluma, close to their son.

They will be in a retirement community, relieved of the responsibilities of maintaining their household, and the need

no longer driving. Access to things became problematic living in the hills.

As you can imagine, many of us who also see this situation coming closer in our lives are watching carefully how Sarah and Lou deal with this awesome challenge—leaving a valued home and transitioning to new surroundings. It can be

she didn’t keep the agony to herself. She shared. It came out through her stories in the writing class or when she was playing tile rummy or when she was eating lunch at the center. When she couldn’t drive any more, without hesitation, she found friends who could take her and Lou to GPACC almost daily, or she hitched on to those who were going down to Gelson’s for shopping. So while she was preparing for the move, she and Lou were able to maintain

chine.

But the most impressive thing was making use of a referred organization called “Gentle Transitions.” The company helps with every aspect of moving. Sarah and Lou had the services of a woman who personally went through the contents of their house

Sunset Hall - Curriculum and Advocacy Thanks to our ad sponsor Sunset Hall. They offer...

Programs for free-thinking seniors (323) 660-5277

Like so many entering into their 80s and 90s with physically active and self-sufficiency years behind them, Sarah and Lou’s house now posed problems for their well-being. to have a car to continue a quality life. And if they need more help, the community’s setting will have those supports, providing a feeling of safety and protection.

Like so many entering into their 80s and 90s with physically active and self-sufficiency years behind them, their house now posed problems for their well-being. Since Sarah and Lou had mobility issues, maneuvering stairs became a hazard. In addition, they were

so overwhelming.

“Obviously, we can’t take a lot of stuff with us. We are moving from a 4-bedroom home to a 1-bedroom apartment. I’m a wreck, but maybe that will pass,” said Sarah.

Whereas some of us would “go back to bed” with all the things to do, Sarah, with Lou as her “teammate,” relied on her resources—friends and Griffith Park Adult Community Center—to get them through this transition. First,

assisting them with decisionmaking. She used green stickers for “to go,” yellow for “time to think,” red for to discard, sell, give away or for the garbage. Visit gentletransitions. com for more information.

To learn about this industry of “senior move management” visit nasmm.org.

Conversational Spanish at GPACC on Wednesdays

Griffith Park Adult Community Club Calendar

Wednesday, June 19, 2013 Annual Gourmet Potluck, 12:00 – 3:00 pm Wednesday, June 26, 2013, 2:00 – 4:00 A presentation by Miamon Miller, teacher of World Music, Part II The importance of improvisation in world musical cultures.

Illustrations will be from recorded material and from violin improvisation with piano accompaniment

their usual routines, instead of being isolated, which would have meant more stress.

Finally, there was the actual downsizing. Through her sharing and passing the word, Sarah and Lou began to divest themselves of those things that they couldn’t take with them, like donating objects that could go to GPACC’s White Elephant Sale. And through the grapevine at GPACC, she managed to sell her beloved grand piano and sewing ma-

Griffith Park Adult Community Center 3203 Riverside Drive, just north of Los Feliz Bl. * Call for info and reservations (323) 644-5579 Lunch Program: Mon.-Fri., GPACC, 11:30 AM sign in, Noon lunch, Donation under 60 $4, 60+ $2 Club Info and Newsletter: Stephanie Vendig, (323) 667-3043 or vendig@sbcglobal.net.

Join GPACC: Only $15/year for trips and news.

For information on trips, call Doris Slater, (323) 667-1879

Let us help make this chapter one of your best.

It begins with the right setting. Comfortable surroundings that please the eye and senses. A responsive staff for resident support needs, with a licensed nurse on-site 24/7.

Professionally guided fitness and therapy for an active lifestyle.

Delicious, chef-prepared cuisine. Enriching activities for mind, body and spirit. Concierge and transportation services.

What happens next is up to you. After all, it’s your story!

Distinctive Residential Settings Award-Winning Memory Care Premier Programs for Health and Wellness

Burbank (818) 972-2405 Encino (818) 788-8870 Hollywood Hills (323) 874-7711 Rancho Palos Verdes (310) 377-9977 Westwood (310) 475-7501 Thousand Oaks (805) 496-9301

belmontvillage.com

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1:4815 PM SENIOR MOMENTS4/19/13 Page

Los Feliz Ledger [franklin avenue elementary]

Lights, Camera, Action!

By Grace Creadon and Ruby Mullen This year we had the very first Franklin Film Festival. It was May 11th in the school auditorium. We interviewed 5th Fiona Creadon who spearheaded the Film Festival.

Fiona’s parents are filmmakers Patrick Creadon and Christine O’ Malley. They were finishing up a film that was playing in film festivals and Fiona thought it’d be cool

to do something like that at school. Fiona enjoys making films and made a short film for the festival, called, “The Legend of the Dance Whisperer.”

Fiona thinks the festival was a great idea.

“I wasn’t really surprised with the outcome because I knew my peers could make really great movies,” Fiona said.

“When we were selling

[Ivanhoe elementary]

End-of-the-Year Events

By Charlotte Gilmore, 4th Grade

Congratulations

Westridge graduates!

As the end of the year approaches, final field trips are taken and endof-t he-ye a r events take place. The end of April brought a week of field trips! The 4th grade went to Sacramento, and the 5th grade went to Camp High Trails. The other grades went on shorter field trips to places such as the L. A. Zoo and Inner City Arts.

Every year, 4th graders go on a day-long field trip to Sacramento. The plane tickets were paid for by parents and the money the students raised at their 4th grade businesses.

This is an exciting opportunity because many students have not been on a plane or to Sacramento before. While there, the students tour the Capital, Sutter’s Fort and Goldbug Park.

Another annual field trip is the 5th grade’s week-long Camp High Trails trip. On a Monday morning, the stu-

tickets it was really slow, I was nervous that nobody would show up. But by show time there was a line all the way down the steps!”

The film festival was a big hit. There were documentaries, mysteries, stop motion animation and music videos.

The filmmakers were from grades K-5.

There was also a used book fair in the reading garden, food trucks and crafts.

It was a great day at Franklin.

Cut!

dents board a bus to go to the camp near Big Bear. Once there, the students stay one week, and during those five days, they will do a variety of activities, such as archery, rock climbing, hiking, some educational classes and games that involve teamwork. I can’t wait until next year when my grade gets to have this amazing experience!

Another year-end tradition is the International Fair.

During this week-long event, each grade performs a song and dance from various continents.

Also, each grade brings in food from their continent.

[pilgrim school]

Bloom Where Planted

By Nicola Kachikis, 4th grade Last month, I was reminded how fortunate the students are at Pilgrim School and how much of a difference we can make when given the chance.

Two representatives from the non-profit organization, “Bloom Where Planted” showed us images and told us stories about the lives of some children in Kenya and Rwanda and how they are surviving with so few resources.

‘Bloom Where Planted’ helps provide funds for books, school supplies, uniforms for these students.

At Pilgrim, we were challenged to raise $5 per elementary student and we reached twice that goal and donated over a $1,000 to this great cause.

The founders of ‘Bloom’ started small, delivering pen-

cils and books to their adopted school in Kenya. Then they worked to fix the floors and buildings and install a library and soccer field. Now their focus has turned to providing secondary education for the school’s top students. This program has only been running for two years but has already provided scholarships for 43 students. In both Rwanda and Kenya secondary school is only available for a fee, which is very difficult for many families to afford.

Next year, we hope to communicate with the students in Rwanda and Kenya!

I can’t imagine how amazing that will be!!

To find out more about this this great organization, visit their website at www. bloomwhereplanted.org

Send the

Los Feliz Ledger your School News to: allisonferraro@losfelizledger.com

W e s t r i d g e s c h o o l c l a s s o f 2 013

will enroll in the following colleges and universities: Bard College Bates College Bennington College Boston College Boston University (2) Brandeis University University of British Columbia Brown University University of California Berkeley (4) Riverside San Diego Santa Barbara (2) Santa Cruz

Page 16 SCHOOL NEWS

California Institute of Technology California Institute of the Arts Chapman University University of Chicago Claremont McKenna College Colgate University The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science & Art Denison University Emerson College (2) Furman University Georgetown University Grinnell College Indiana University at Bloomington

Johns Hopkins University Lehigh University (2) Lewis & Clark College Loyola Marymount University Loyola University New Orleans University of Michigan Northeastern University Occidental College (2) University of Oregon Pasadena City College University of Pennsylvania (2) Rhodes College Santa Clara University Scripps College

University of Southern California (6) St. Olaf College Stanford University (2) Texas Christian University Vassar College (2) University of Virginia Washington University in St. Louis (2) University of Washington Whitman College Whittier College

(as of 05/17/13)

Westridge school

•

s i n c e 1913

An independent day school for college-bound girls grades 4 through 12, celebrating 100 years!

324 madeline drive, pasadena, california 91105 • 626.799.1153 • www.westridge.org www.losfelizledger.com

June 2013

Los Feliz Ledger [temple Israel of Hollywood]

Student Activities

By Eliza Noxon Every year, students gather at a park for a day of fun with activities, such as running laps in a jog-a-thon, singing songs and relay races. Money raised through the jog-a-thon goes to a specific cause, and the last

few years it has been the Special Olympics. This year, we raised $7,500 and are looking forward to the awards ceremony where students will be recognized for their hard work.

The 6th graders will soon

be performing Shakespeare.

We have been rehearsing the play for months. For the past 10 years the 6th grade class has been performing “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” but the class this year is so passionate about Shakespeare we asked if we could put on a different play. Our teacher decided on “Twelfth Night.”

Congratulations to our school reporters for the 2012-13 school year.

If you would like to write about your school for the

Los Feliz Ledger,

talk with a teacher at your school or an administrator! We’d love to have you on staff! Copy for our September 2013 edition is already due August 13th.

Immaculate Heart High School A Private Catholic College Preparatory School for Young Women • Grades 9–12

Congratulations to the Class of 2013!

Our graduates have been accepted at universities and colleges across the country, including: Allegheny College American University Bard College Barnard College Bennington College Boston College Boston University Brandeis University California State Universities Catholic University of America Chapman University Claremont McKenna College College of the Holy Cross College of William and Mary Connecticut College Cooper Union Cornell University DePaul University Dickinson College Dominican University of California Duke University Emerson College Fordham University GeorgeWashington University Gonzaga University Hampshire College Harvey Mudd College Howard University Indiana University at Bloomington

Johns Hopkins University Lake Forest College Lewis & Clark College Loyola Marymount University Loyola University Chicago Loyola University Maryland Loyola University New Orleans Marquette University Mills College Mount St. Mary’s College New York University Northern Arizona University Oberlin College Occidental College Ohio Wesleyan University Otis College of Art & Design Pepperdine University Pitzer College Purdue University Rhode Island School of Design School of Visual Arts Saint Mary’s College of California Santa Clara University Sarah Lawrence College Seattle University Smith College Syracuse University Texas Christian University Tulane University

UC Berkeley UC Davis UC Irvine UCLA UC Riverside UC San Diego UC Santa Barbara UC Santa Cruz University of Arizona University of Chicago University of Colorado, Boulder University of Hawaii at Manoa University of Michigan University of New Hampshire University of Oregon University of Portland University of Puget Sound University of Redlands University of Rhode Island University of Richmond University of San Diego University of San Francisco University of Southern California University of Washington Villanova University Wellesley College Wheaton College Whittier College Yale University

Educating the Hearts and Minds of Young Women Since 1906 5515 Franklin Avenue • Los Angeles, California 90028-5999 • (323) 461-3651 • www. immaculateheart.org

June 2013

www.losfelizledger.com

SCHOOL NEWS Page 17

Los Feliz Ledger [thomas starr king environmental studies magnet]

Solar Energy and How We Used It

[immaculate heart high school]

Relief, Longing and Fulfillment

By Claire Danna ’15 and Celynne Hebron ’15

By Debbie Dicdican, 8th grade This semester Environmental Studies Magnet 8th graders did an exciting project based on the uses of solar energy. Our task was to build a solar car. During this project we were also required to follow the Scientific Method.

All students were split into teams of four. We were asked to do our own research on solar energy along with applying information we learned about forces and motion. In the end all groups

presented their projects to the class and a final car race took place.

During the amazing process of creating this solar car we learned to work with others, the benefits of solar energy and how it affects the world now and perhaps in the future.

If you are a teacher or a student that believes that science needs to be at least a little more fun I would recommend trying this project. It allows you to have fun while learning!

Advertise in the

Los Feliz Ledger (323) 667-9897

So we’ve come to the end of another year at Immaculate Heart. Although the students here are as excited as any for summer, the end of the year brought with it the reminders of all the reasons why we love IH and why many of us will miss it. Class Day reminded us of this in a big way this year, with a beautiful theme sur-

Beauty will now surround our seniors as they graduate June 4th at the Hollywood Bowl. On the domed stage, members of the Class of 2013 will shine in matching white gowns and bearing red roses as they prepare themselves for their future. We are so proud of them! rounding memories and nostalgia. It showed off all of the great memories we have made this year. At the same time, the seniors shed tears of excitement and sadness at their departure from our campus.

IH students faced our final exams bravely, and they finished the year confident in their own knowledge and growth over the year. Meanwhile, our Prom was a night to remember and the Fly Me to the Moon theme really put stars into the eyes of our students. Our spring sports ended with each team attend-

Page 18 SCHOOL NEWS

ing CIF and our Academic Awards Night put the scholars of IHHS in the spotlight.

A sense of relief was also felt amongst both teachers and faculty as AP exams were finally completed as well.

Beauty will now surround our seniors as they graduate June 4th at the Hollywood Bowl. On the domed stage, members of the Class of 2013 will shine in matching white gowns and bearing red roses as they prepare themselves for

their future. We are so proud of them!

With summer in the air, some students are eagerly awaiting trips or are preparing for extra summer school courses at IH. Many students have already bought their summer reading books and are preparing for classes to come.

This year brought its share of fun, stress, joy, struggle, learning, celebration, friendship, challenge, hard work and sisterhood. It has been rewarding for the entire IH family, and now we clearly are deserving of summer. Until next year!

www.losfelizledger.com

[loyola high school]

Busy, Exciting Time for Seniors

By Griffin O. Cohen, 12th Grade On Saturday, my classmates and I will graduate.

We’ve been on a challenging but exciting ride—especially in the past few weeks.

After Advance Placement (AP) testing, we concluded the year with projects in classes, a farewell mass, the annual awards ceremony, and Grad Night at Disneyland. And in athletics, our track won its 6th consecutive CIF Division 2 championship.

For me, a few other classmates and I competed in an economics competition at the Los Angeles Federal Reserve.

We prepared a presentation on the state of the economy and the financial markets since April and analyzed data from a time period we did not know and provided policy recommendations to improve the economy.

We took 2nd place and I not only had fun but learned a lot.

Loyola: I am so grateful for its faculty, staff, teachers and students who make it a truly special place. It was hard to realize that last week, I attended my last class as a Cub. But at the same time, we seniors are all excited for college next year.

Editor’s Note: Griffin will be attending Georgetown University in the fall studying International Economics at GU’s School of Foreign Service. We’ ll miss you, Grif. Mom.

June 2013

Los Feliz Ledger

June 2013

www.losfelizledger.com

SECTION TITLE Page 19

2150 Hillhurst Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Los Feliz Hills • Los Feliz Oaks • Silver Lake • Franklin Hills Franklin Square • Echo Park • Atwater Village

323.668.7600 georgeandeileen.com

Just Listed

4947 Ambrose Avenue

Coming Soon

Los Feliz

$1,499,000

Gorgeous & newly renovated 4+3.5 New England style residence on a lovely street. Living room with new fireplace. Sunny updated kitchen with white Shaker style cabinets & stainless appliances.

Formal dining room. Spacious family room leads out to the large yard with room for a pool. Master has great bath w/double sinks, wonderful shower and view deck. New A/C and heat. Gorgeous!

New Price!

7808 Waring Avenue

Silver Lake Hills

Call For Price 2694 Glendower Avenue

Stylish & newly renovated 3+3 Contemporary home with views.

Fabulous spacious kitchen w/all stainless appliances, Caesarstone tops. Adjoining family room with gas fireplace. Kitchen & living rm opens to large view deck. Great master suite with spa like bath.

Home office area. 2 decks and yard. 2 car garage. New AC & heat, copper plumbing, tankless water heater. Apprx 2640 sq ft. Ivanhoe.

For Sale

West Hollywood

$745,000

Absolutely charming 2 + 1 Country English Cottage in a fabulous Melrose Avenue neighborhood! Gorgeous living room with vaulted beamed ceilings, skylight and stone mantel fireplace.

Formal dining room leads to lovely brick patio & garden. Redone kitchen with Mexican Pavers. Updated bathroom with tile shower and floors. A/C. Close to Melrose, Farmers Market, and the Grove.

In Escrow

4230 Newdale Drive

2485 Lanterman Terrace

New Price !

3751 Tracy Street

Los Feliz

$679,000

Los Feliz

$849,000

Featured on HGTV, this stylish 2+2 Monterey Colonial offers a wonderful indoor outdoor feel. LR with open beamed ceiling, fireplace, hrdwd floors & leads thru French doors to the patio and yard. Spacious Cook’s kitchen w/center isle & stainless appliances. Sexy master suite and bath. Central Air & Heat.

Separate office. Patios hot tub, F/P and great outdoor dining.

452 Caruso Avenue

$1,875,000

In Escrow

In Escrow

Charming 1920’s 2-story Traditional 2+2 home with Spanish interior details. Beautiful living rm w/coved ceiling, archways and den. Newly refinished hardwood floors. Spacious formal dining room and a charming kitchen with stainless appliances.

Large bonus space is ideal for home office. Lovely yard. New sewer line, tankless water heater. Franklin Elementary school.

Los Feliz Hills

Breathtaking views of the city & the Griffith Park hills are enjoyed from this warm and inviting 3+3.5 New England style residence.

Gorgeous LR leads you to a fabulous deck surrounded by lush greenery with spectacular views of the mountains and Griffith Observatory. Sumptuous master with knock out city views, high ceilings, spacious bath & walk-in closet. Great library. 3 fireplaces.

5041 Ambrose Avenue

Los Feliz

$925,000

Great curb appearl in this 3+2 Country English surrounded by lush lanscaping on a wonderful cul-de-sac. Spacious living room w/a batchelder tiled fireplace and hardwood floors. Formal dining room. Home office area. Spacious eat-in kitchen opens out to lovely patio & grassy yard. Central air & heat. Garage perfect for home off w/loft. Close to Hillhurst & Vermont shops & restaurants.

Sold

Glendale

$569,000

Wonderful 2+2 condo at the fabulous Excelsior Americana.

Lovely living room with views over looking stunning pool.

A spacious cook’s kitchen with Ceasar-stone counters, GE Monogram stainless appliances, and breakfast bar. A resort quality pool, spa and terrace. Prestigious Americana life style, shopping, movie theater, restaurants, and concierge.

1900 Monon Street

Los Feliz

$749,000

Lovely 3+2 Traditional home on a cul-de-sac. LR w/hardwood floors. Sunny kitchen w/Spanish tiles, stainless refrigerator, gas range, Bosch dishwasher, skylight. Dining rm & kitchen leads to the fabulous patio and deck surrounded by greenery & view of Shakespeare bridge. Large 3rd bdrm w/newly remodeled bath.

Central air & heat. Direct access from garage. Franklin Elem.

“Thank You George & Eileen...”

Relief, that is what I felt when we started working with the Morenos. We had a Silverlake house to sell--a beautiful home, but on a challenging street--and we were looking to buy in Los Feliz. We needed our Silverlake home to sell quickly, and we needed advice on what to do to the house in order to maximize its appeal. George and Eileen spent an entire afternoon with us, explaining where the housing market stood, how they planned to market our home, and what we needed to do to it going forward. Their eye for detail, and for what needed freshening and fixing was unerring. They recommended a reliable and speedy contractor whose crew did a terrific job, and at a reasonable cost. Our house looked gorgeous.

962 N, Hoover Street

Silver Lake

$630,000

Once the offers on our house started coming in--and we had something like eight offers in four days--we understood just how savvy their marketing strategy had been. We also came to realize just how very important it is having experienced realtors handling the sale of your house. Multiple offers are, of course, what every seller craves, but figuring out which offer really is the best can be tricky. George and Eileen have the sorts of connections and the experience that enables them to give sound advice. And throughout, they maintain an almost Zen-like calm, which ratchets down one’s own anxiety considerably. In the end, our home sold for $35,000 more than its asking price, and to a solid buyer.

But here’s the thing, if the Morenos were simply super agents, I would not be writing this letter. They are terrific people. It’s not just that they have integrity, or that they look out for your interests, although they do. It’s that they are curious about the larger world, open to other points of view, able conversationalists, and fun. I cannot recommend them highly enough.

Alice Echols