Santa Monica Daily Press, December 11, 2008

INSIDE SCOOP

COMMENTARY

‘DAY WITHOUT A GAY’ RECEIVES MILD RESPONSE PAGE 3 NOTHING LIKE A HESS TRUCK FOR HANUKKAH PAGE 5

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

Visit us online at smdp.com

Volume 7 Issue 335

Santa Monica Daily Press PLAYING THE STRIKE CARD SEE PAGE 3

Since 2001: A news odyssey

THE NEW GIG, SAME GUY ISSUE

Fire dispatch could come back to town

BY MELODY HANATANI Daily Press Staff Writer

on, don’t just do it in the last five days.”

Shriver could not be reached for comment on Wednesday.

O’Connor said there was nothing political in her nomination of Genser, calling him a senior statesmen who continues to work hard to protect housing in Santa Monica.

“To me at this point in time, he was a good person to be the mayor,” she said.

Both Genser and O’Connor are members of Santa Monicans for Renters’ Rights, the city’s leading political party that has long held a council majority. Bloom, another SMRR member, said he voted for Genser because he holds a deep level of respect and admiration for his colleague.

“It’s a difficult decision for each one of us to make in terms of who we are going to support for that position,” Bloom said, adding that politics was not a factor.

PUBLIC SAFETY FACILITY Emergency dispatch services could be brought back in house nearly two years after local operations merged with the Los Angeles Fire Department.

That is the preliminary recommendation of a study examining the efficiency of the Los Angeles Fire Department Regional Dispatch Center and exploring alternatives for the Santa Monica Fire Department, suggesting the local Communications Center in the Public Safety Facility be reactivated.

The GeoComm study was initiated after officials and residents reported concerns over the new arrangement to the City Council last spring, including a slower response time and issues with the accuracy of emergency situations that were being relayed back to the department.

The study’s preliminary findings, which were presented to the council on Tuesday, showed the Regional Dispatch Center is not able to provide the high level of service that SMFD is seeking and residents expect, suggesting the department might want to consider bringing operations back home.

Aside from reactivating the Communications Center, the study has also looked into other options, including merging the service with the Santa Monica Police Department and forming a Westside regional dispatch center with Beverly Hills and Culver City fire departments, which is a suggestion that has received some interest from the two agencies, according to SMFD Deputy Fire Chief Bruce Davis.

The final recommendations and funding impacts will be presented to the council on Jan. 13.

“I’m very glad at the direction that it seems to be going and it makes intuitive sense to me,” Mayor Ken Genser said. “I’m hopeful that they will complete work quickly and are able to implement this in a relatively short time frame.”

The SMFD contracted with the regional dispatch center in January 2007 to handle its 911 calls, expanding the capability to address emergency situations in Santa Monica where the department in the past had only one dis-

SEE MAYOR PAGE 12

SEE DISPATCH PAGE 13

Fabian Lewkowicz FabianLewkowicz.com

PUTTING IN WORK: In his first duty as mayor, Ken Genser awards a commendation to Santa Monica Pack 67 Webelo 1 Den Leader Meighan Maguire at City Hall on Tuesday. Genser was named mayor, while Pam O'Connnor will serve as mayor pro tem for the next two years.

Genser selected as mayor

BY MELODY HANATANI Daily Press Staff Writer

CITY HALL More than two decades after Ken Genser was first elected to the City Council, the longest-sitting member was once again picked to serve as mayor.

The council on Tuesday unanimously selected Genser to serve as the presiding officer of the council for the next two years, replacing outgoing mayor Herb Katz. Pam O’Connor, who nominated Genser for the position, was selected as the mayor pro tem.

Genser previously served two, one-year mayoral terms in 1992 and 2000 and was re-elected to the council last month along with Katz, Richard Bloom and Bobby Shriver.

“I’m very pleased and honored that they have the confidence in me to do the job,” he said.

Only two of the current seven councilmembers — Shriver and Kevin

McKeown — have yet to serve as mayor despite the fact that both were the top votegetters in their respective elections the past two years.

While some councilmembers maintain that politics did not play into the decision to select Genser as the new mayor, Katz said on Wednesday that he believes some of the stances Shriver took during the past election might have hurt his chances.

Shriver was one of only two councilmembers — the other being McKeown — who backed Proposition T, which was a controversial ballot measure that proposed restricting commercial development in the city. The incumbent also gave an endorsement to challenger Ted Winterer in the days leading up to the election.

“I’ve told this to Bobby that the backing of Ted Winterer could’ve hurt me,” Katz said. “(Shriver) said he did it in the last five days and it shouldn’t make a difference.

“If you’re going to do it, then do it early

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Every Picture Tells a Story 1311 Montana Ave., 3:30 p.m. — 6 p.m.

Award winning author/illustrator David Shannon will read his exciting new book “Too Many Toys” at a holiday party with complimentary refreshments and plenty of holiday fun. Shannon will sign new copies of his book as well. Purchase an extra copy of one of Shannon’s books and help replenish Los Angeles’ needy public school libraries. Go to www.everypicture.com or call (310) 451-2700 for more information.

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Montana Avenue Branch Library 1704 Montana Ave., 11:15 a.m. — 11:45 a.m.

Come to the Montana Branch Library and hear stories for children 3 to 5.

‘The End of Suburbia’ Santa Monica Public Library 601 Santa Monica Blvd., 7 p.m. — 9 p.m.

Come to the library for a film screening of “The End of Suburbia.” With the promise of a sense of space, affordability, family life and upward mobility, suburbia has become part of the American Dream. But as the country enters the 21st century, serious questions are beginning to emerge about the sustainability of this way of life. The screening is part of the Sustainable Cinema film series.

What’s new?

Montana Ave. Branch Library 2101 Ocean Park Blvd., 1 p.m. — 2:30 p.m.

Head out to the Fairview Branch Library to join in a free-wheeling review and discussion of the week’s key news stories — both at home and abroad. The discussion is moderated by Jack Nordhaus. For more information, call (310) 450-0443.

‘True West’ Powerhouse Theatre 3116 Second St., 8 p.m. — 10 p.m.

Sam Shephard’s “True West” is the story of two brothers who collide with sibling rivalry inside their mother’s quaint suburban home. Austin, a screenwriter, has come home to work on a script that will secure his financial future. His criminal brother Lee cons his way into a movie deal with Austin’s producer and the rivalry takes off full force, leading to an explosive showdown that literally tears the home apart. Call or visit the Powerhouse Theatre for more information.

Friday, Dec. 12, 2008 Gifts for the planet Civic Auditorium 1855 Main St., 10 a.m. — 8 p.m.

The Eco Gift Festival takes place Dec. 12-14 at the Santa Monica Civic Auditorium. The festival showcases 150-plus vendors with earth-friendly gifts, 15 eclectic musical performances, a children’s stage and a speaker series.

‘It’s a Pretty Good Life’ Miles Playhouse 1130 Lincoln Blvd., 8 p.m.

This “play with songs” stars a ramshackle group of performers that give in to the pressure all theater groups feel during the holiday season. To scratch the itch, the group stages a performance of the Dickens classic, “A Christmas Carol.” There’s just one problem, they don’t know much about the play. For more information, call (323) 655-2410.

‘The Magic of Christmas’ La Mirada Performing Arts Center 14900 La Mirada Blvd., 8 a.m. — 10 a.m.

Crossroads teacher David Listenberger returns to the stage with the Young Americans in their holiday extravaganza “The Magic of Christmas,” a fun-filled show for the whole family with all your favorite holiday songs, beautiful choral music and dances.

For reservations call (714) 994-6310.

For more information on any of the events listed, log on to smdp.com and click the “Events” tab for the given day’s calendar.

Inside Scoop Visit us online at smdp.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

3

’Day Without a Gay’ draws mild interest

BY LISA LEFF Associated Press Writer

PAINFUL LESSON

Brandon Wise brandonw@smdp.com Passersby view a wrecked car on the Third Street Promenade on Wednesday. The car was driven by a drunk driver who died in the crash. The educational display was sponsored by the Santa Monica Police Department and Mothers Against Drunk Driving.

Screen Actors Guild to vote on strike

BY RYAN NAKASHIMA AP Business Writer

LOS ANGELES The Screen Actors Guild plans to send strike authorization ballots to more than 100,000 union members on Jan. 2, a date that leaves the Golden Globes safe but puts Oscar night within reach of a potential boycott.

Votes will be counted on Jan. 23, nearly two weeks after the Golden Globe Awards ceremony, but ahead of the Feb. 22 Academy Awards, the most important date on the Hollywood calendar.

Approval by 75 percent of voting members is required to pass the measure. If it is approved, the SAG national board can call a strike.

Guild President Alan Rosenberg has said a strike is the last resort to force a resolution in stalled contract talks with major movie studios, but that if it is necessary, it would be timed to have the most impact.

“SAG members understand that their

futures as professional actors are at stake,” Rosenberg said in a statement Wednesday.

The guild is at odds with the studios over the treatment of Internet productions and the benefits that actors can get when earthquakes or other unforeseen events, such as a strike by another union, shut down productions.

For instance, actors have an outstanding claim for payments they say they are due for work lost during the 100-day strike by writers last season. The strike reduced the Golden Globes this past January to a glorified press conference.

Major studios called the strike vote poorly timed.

“It’s now official: SAG members are going to be asked to bail out a failed negotiating strategy by going on strike during one of the worst economic crises in history,” said a statement by the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers.

That group represents studios such as Viacom Inc.’s Paramount Pictures and

Time Warner Inc.’s Warner Bros. The alliance has stuck to what it called its final offer made when the previous contract expired June 30.

Similar deals have already been accepted by other unions, including those representing directors, writers, stagehands and a smaller actors union. On its Web site, the movie and TV producers’ group says the Screen Actors Guild has so far foregone more than $37 million in pay increases by continuing to work under the terms of the old deal.

On Monday, the guild held a closeddoor town hall-style meeting at the Harmony Gold Theater in Hollywood, and Rosenberg said he was “encouraged by the response” by the 500 members in attendance.

But the guild, which had expected to send out ballots this month, pushed back the strike vote date after the producers’

SAN FRANCISCO A daylong work stoppage for which people were encouraged to call in “gay” to express support for same-sex marriage drew spotty participation Wednesday, with some gay right activists praising the event and others questioning its value.

People who opted to take the day off from their jobs as part of the national “Day Without a Gay” were encouraged to perform community service, and charitable organizations across the country said they had volunteers showing up.

“Visibility is really important for the gay community, so after a lot of thought I decided I would come out and be visible with my colleagues at work and use the time working for the community,” said Carrie Lewis, 36, a University of California health researcher who spent the day working at the Sacramento Gay and Lesbian Center.

The protest, which a gay couple from West Hollywood organized through the Internet, was designed to demonstrate the economic clout of same-sex marriage supporters following the passage of voter-approved gay marriage bans in California, Arizona and Florida last month.

Participants also were asked to refrain from spending money or at least to patronize gayfriendly businesses for the day.

In San Francisco’s gay Castro district, several residents and merchants said they endorsed the cause but did not think a work stoppage or spending boycott was practical, given the poor economy and how quickly the strike was organized.

“My employers have always been there in every possible way. I didn’t feel comfortable discomfiting them when they have gone out of their way to be there for me,” said Paul Ellis, 51, a manager at Cliff’s Variety hardware store.

David Lang, 44, a San Francisco gymnastics coach who said he conceived of a similar idea right after the election, said he thinks a coordinated job action would have been more successful if organizers had enlisted support from sympathetic employers, labor groups and industries.

“If we are going to make a huge impact and not be laughed at, then we have to take the time and make the time to communicate with all the parties. We could have shut down a lot of the

SEE ACTORS PAGE 12

SEE GAY DAY PAGE 12

TAXES ALL FORMS • ALL TYPES • ALL STATES

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SAMUEL B. MOSES, CPA

(310) 395-9922 1000 Wilshiree Blvd.,, Suitee 1800 Santaa Monicaa 90401

OpinionCommentary 4

A newspaper with issues

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Right is Right

Send comments to editor@smdp.com

Paul M. Weyrich

Celebrating Kronovet’s victory Editor:

What a lot of nonsense! The election of Robert Kronovet is actually a cause for great joy in Santa Monica since his victory represents the first time in 29 years that the stranglehold of the socialists on the Rent Control Board has been broken.

Of course, his voice on the board will be only one of five so the socialist panic over his election is preposterous. I suspect that there will be virtually nothing he can do to restore a real sense of balance to this board.

The same absurd claim that poor people should be able to live in paradise will continue on unabated and be enforced against landlords. You never hear these people whine about the lack of “affordable housing” in Bel Air or Brentwood. They know the only reason they can get away with this perversion of the natural order of things is because 80 percent of the citizens in this town live in apartments. There is plenty of “affordable housing” in Bell Gardens, in Cucamonga and Bakersfield for that matter.

David A. McKellar Santa Monica

Proud to be a trouble maker Editor:

I’ve seen a lot of things in my 29 years as a Saint John’s labor and delivery nurse. But I don’t think anything shocked me more than our CEO’s reaction to the article in your paper (“Nurses press charges against Saint John’s,” page 1, Nov. 21).

In a harshly-worded letter to employees on the eve of our Thanksgiving weekend, CEO Lou Lazatin questioned the caring and dedication of the brave patient advocates who spoke up at the press conference. She has held several “forums” with our physicians and hospital staff where she paints us as “trouble-makers.” If standing up for our patients and our nurses is trouble making then we are proud to be “trouble makers.”

Lori Hammond Registered Nurse Saint John’s Health Center

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Send comments to editor@smdp.com

Lacking the funding to get things done I RECEIVED A SINCERE MESSAGE VIA

e-mail from a supporter of the presidentelect congratulating me on a supposed strategy of mine. Evidently this follower thinks that I recommended that it would be a good strategic idea to spend as much money as possible during the waning weeks of the Bush administration. This excessive spending would insure that there will be nothing left for President Barack Obama to waste money on when he takes office Inauguration Day, Jan. 20, 2009.

First of all, the economic strategy that I have always supported for my country has always been to live within its means. For example, I deplore all of these “bailouts” which have been advocated by the current administration and passed by the Congress.

But the person who wrote me does have a point.

The president-elect has made substantial promises to all sorts of groups.

He has said that he will provide a middleclass tax cut for 95 percent of the tax-paying public. In addition, lower-income individuals will not have to pay federal-income tax, but they will receive economic “stimulus” checks. And they won’t have to pay either Social Security or Medicare taxes.

He is going to help those who have bad mortgages and would not otherwise be able to stay in their homes. He is going to see to it that everyone will get to go to college. He is going to increase funds for early education.

He intends to increase foreign aid. He wants to help out on Main Street now that Wall Street has been taken care of. He is going to take care of all of those 401Ks which have lost so much money.

He is going to bring back high- paying manufacturing jobs. He will offer tax credits to businesses which will bring back jobs from abroad. He intends to see to it that the United States has universal healthcare. I could go on and on.

The problem is that he simply doesn’t have enough money for all of it. He can borrow only so much. How much of the American gross domestic product does he want the Chinese to own? If he just has the Federal Reserve System print more money the country will suffer massive inflation.

There is little question that President Obama will have to disappoint perhaps a large number of interest groups. How will these groups then react to President Obama?

Will they understand that the money was just not there and forgive him? Or will they run out of patience and begin to take out their anger on him. Time will tell.

It reminds me of the old saw. The old president says to the newly elected president, “You will run into trouble. In the middle drawer in the desk in the oval office, I have prepared three envelopes. When you get into trouble remember those envelopes.”

So after six months the new president got into terrible trouble. The president remembered the envelopes so he opened the first one. It read “Blame it on the previous administration.” So he did and his problems went away. Another several months went by and this time the president was really in

trouble. He recalled the envelopes so he opened the second one. It read, “Blame it on the previous president.” So he denounced his predecessor as irresponsible. The former president was truly the source of the current crisis. Again, his problems went away. Then a year before he was running for a second term the president got into even worse trouble than he ever had been before. He remembered the envelopes. So he opened the third and last one. It read “prepare three envelopes.”

THERE IS LITTLE QUESTION THAT PRESIDENT OBAMA WILL HAVE TO DISAPPOINT PERHAPS A LARGE NUMBER OF INTEREST GROUPS. HOW WILL THESE GROUPS THEN REACT TO PRESIDENT OBAMA? WILL THEY UNDERSTAND THAT THE MONEY WAS JUST NOT THERE AND FORGIVE HIM? OR WILL THEY RUN OUT OF PATIENCE AND BEGIN TO TAKE OUT THEIR ANGER ON HIM. TIME WILL TELL.

EDITOR IN CHIEF Kevin Herrera editor@smdp.com

MANAGING EDITOR Daniel Archuleta daniela@smdp.com

STAFF WRITER Melody Hanatani melodyh@smdp.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER Brandon Wise brandonw@smdp.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Bill Bauer, David Pisarra, Meredith Carroll, Kenny Mack, Jack Neworth, Lloyd Garver, Taylor Van Arsdale, Dane Robert Swanson, Ryan Hyatt, Steve Breen, Elizabeth Brown, Merv Hecht, Ron Scott Smith Mike Heayn, Brian Hepp Mariel Howsepian, Cynthia Citron, Amanda Cushman, Steve Parker and Phyllis Chavez

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER Fabian Lewkowicz

NEWS INTERNS Catherine Cain, Saba Hamedy, Elizabeth Kenigsberg, Rob Lawrence, Teddy Lashnick news@smdp.com

PHOTOGRAPHY INTERNS Morgan Genser, Raymond Solano, Rachel Dardashti news@smdp.com

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CIRCULATION Keith Wyatt Osvaldo Paganini

If the president’s supporters are so enamored with him that despite his inability to fulfill many of his campaign promises they will stick with him, he will make it through his first term without insurmountable difficulty.

But if after a time his supporters become restless and angry because expectations were not fulfilled, then this president will be in real trouble for re-election.

The problem for the Republicans is that they will have to rely on the president’s supporters to become angry with him. Obama is often compared with President Franklin D. Roosevelt. Recall, FDR’s supporters elected him to the presidency four times.

PAUL M. WEYRICH is chairman and CEO of the Free Congress Foundation, a politically and socially conservative think tank based in Washington, D.C. whose “main focus is on the culture war.” He can be reached at www.freecongress.org.

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OPINIONS EXPRESSED are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Santa Monica Daily Press staff. Guest editorials from residents are encouraged, as are letters to the editor. Letters will be published on a space-available basis. It is our intention to publish all letters we receive, except those that are libelous or are unsigned. Preference will be given to those that are e-mailed to editor@smdp.com. All letters must include the author’s name and telephone number for purposes of verification. Letters also may be mailed to our offices located at 410 Broadway, Suite B, Santa Monica, 90401, or faxed to (310) 576-9913. All letters and guest editorials are subject to editing for space and content.

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Nothing like a Hess Truck for Hanukkah FOR MOST REFORM JEWS, HANUKKAH

The City Council always makes lots of noise.

Activists always make themselves heard, too.

And even community members — just like you — always find a way to make a difference.

So this week’s Q-Line question asks: There have been many newsmakers this year, but who had the most impact on Santa Monica during 2008?

Call (310) 285-8106 before Friday at 5 p.m. and we’ll print your answers in the weekend edition of the Daily Press. Please limit responses to a minute or less.

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is an occasion to simply gather with family, light the menorah and eat. Not to diminish the accomplishments of Judah, the Maccabees and that miraculous drop of oil (back when trans fat was revered instead of reviled), but technically it’s a relatively minor happening on the Hebrew calendar that’s presumed by many non-Jews to be major because of its proximity to Christmas.

When non-Jews wish us a Happy Hanukkah and ask about our plans, we smile politely and play along so as to not embarrass them for assuming that just because they have a big holiday in December that our December holiday must be religiously noteworthy, too. It’s kind of like wishing friends a happy Flag Day and asking where they’ll be celebrating the broad stripes and bright stars.

As a kid, however, Hanukkah felt significant not because of the story of the Jewish struggle for religious freedom and national survival, but because along the way someone inexplicably added presents to the tradition that previously only included potato latkes, a spinning top and chocolate shaped liked coins and wrapped in gold foil (which is not to disparage fried potatoes and chocolate wrapped in gold foil, both of which are always deeply appreciated). To a child, any occasion that includes eight gifts is definitely an “occasion.”

My family never commemorated the Festival of Lights with a bush or by writing letters to an elusive fairy. No, our custom was the Hess Toy Truck. My dad started buying them for my sister and me for Hanukkah when we were toddlers. Every year in early December he’d start singing, “The Hess Truck’s back, and it’s better than ever!”

Even though he’d always stash the trucks in plain sight in the shoe rack in the front of his closet until my mom got around to wrapping them, my sister and I would feign surprise when one of our gifts was in a wrapped rectangular box just about the size of a Hess Truck.

I can’t quite explain why two girls who had an impressive collection of Cabbage Patch Dolls also had a fascination with toy oil tankers, but we were thrilled to play with the trucks my dad bought for us at the Hess gas station in town.

That is, until he realized that vintage Hess

Trucks were selling for small fortunes at toy auctions.

So he stopped letting us play with them and instead insisted they sit untouched in their original boxes (which was actually not tragic since it was around that same time that my sister and I started realizing that as cool as the Hess Patrol Car was, that maybe we were a little too old and girly to actually keep playing with it).

Hanukkah fell just a few days after Thanksgiving my freshman year in college.

Since I wouldn’t be able to make it home for the occasion, my mom sent me back to school with eight gifts — a consolation prize for missing out on her latkes that are so good that grown men frequently weep while eating them (and the tears have nothing to do with how many onions go into the batter, either).

Each gift had a note with a clue to the next night’s treasure. Getting to read clever messages and open up precious trinkets that only my mom could know I wanted was the greatest gift ever.

The only thing cooler was the Hanukkah when my big gift was Bubble Gum the guinea pig (named for its pink nose — I was a clever 4-year-old, n’est-ce pas?).

Now that I have a brand new baby, I’ve been bitten by the Hanukkah bug all over again and want to recreate the magic I felt as a little girl for my daughter. Other than lighting the menorah and taking a stab at frying up some latkes, we’ll be celebrating Hanukkah with gifts.

Since she hasn’t started writing yet, I’ve made a list for her. A Madame Alexander Cinderella doll like the one I used to have. A hand-painted Limoges porcelain box.

Books. Toys. A sled. I’m not sure I’ll be able to squeeze everything into eight nights.

My mom remarked that, at four months old, the only thing that means something to my daughter is a warm bottle and that maybe I should hold off on anything more elaborate until she’s a little older.

But even though Hanukkah may not be the most significant in the grand scheme of Judaism, I’d hate to break with tradition now. Even if that just means a bottle of milk or a Hess Truck.

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Two blocks north of Whole Foods (310) 399-7100

City of Santa Monica Ordinance Number 2278 and 2279 (CCS) (City Council Series) The following are summaries, prepared by the City Attorney, of ordinance Numbers 2278 and 2279, which were adopted by the city council on November 25, 2008.

Ordinance Number 2278(CCS) amends the Municipal Code to modify the threshold at which alterations to a structure are classified as a “substantial remodel” and therefore trigger the requirement that the entire structure comply with current building codes. The amendment changes existing law by removing the adjustment provision that allowed substantially remodeled commercial or industrial buildings to be enlarged beyond 50% without meeting code requirements. However, the amendment allows for flexibility in compliance requirements if concealed structural damage is discovered during construction and that discovery necessities work exceeding the 50% threshold.

Ordinance Number 2279(CCS) extends and modifies existing interim ordinances that restrict construction in multi-family residential districts by limiting to one the number of simultaneous projects within a five hundred foot radius of another, subject to the provision that no project may be delayed for longer than fifteen months. The new law addresses the situation in which the existence of multiple projects in the same area results in a particular project being delayed by more than one other project. As to such projects, the new law establishes a maximum delay period of twenty months. The ordinance also lists exemptions from the construction rate program, which include specified affordable housing projects, projects to be developed on vacant sites and projects involving the retention of an historic landmark. Such projects are exempt and not themselves subject to the restriction but could trigger delays for the commencement of other, nonexempt projects.

These ordinances will become effective thirty days after adoption. Their full text is available upon request from the Office of the city clerk, located at 1685 Main Street, Room 102, Santa Monica: phone (310) 458-8211.

It takes

all kinds.

From Infant Programs to Older Adults, the Santa Monica Family YMCA has something for everyone.

Weekly classes like Mommy and Me, Twinges in the Hinges, and nutrition consulting for all ages help make the Y a great solution for community health...for all ages.

All for a low monthly fee* Scholarships available for qualifiying incomes.

JOIN

call 310-393-2

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We build strong kids, strong families, and strong communities.

1332 6th St • Santa Monica, CA 90401 • (310) 393-2721 • www.ymcasm.org *Nonprofit corporation. Financial assistance available.

Send comments to editor@smdp.com

721

urs every day

IT’S THAT TIME OF YEAR WHERE PEOPLE

are getting busy with the holidays and rushing around doing all kinds of shopping, cooking, baking and, hopefully, enjoying.

I know it is a stressful time due to our current state of the planet, our economy, political issues and lack of funds, but I for one am not giving in to the doom and gloom.

I say, enjoy the simple things and find a way to be grateful for the abundance that most of us experience.

OK, maybe this year you won’t be spending much money on presents or lavish parties or maybe you won’t be going on that winter vacation that is a tradition with your family and/or friends. But hey, we all need to be positive at a time like this and appreciate all that we do have.

What I focus on right now is my friends and family, my being able to put a great meal on the table and having a warm cozy home

to hang out in as the weather gets chilly and days are short.

Lately I have been making soups and stews and enjoying the process of putting together a meal that is warming to the body and soul.

The great thing is that you can create a soup or stew with just about anything that you have in your cupboard or fridge and the end result can be as simple or elegant as you have the energy and pocketbook for.

Try one of the entrees below paired with a green salad and glass of wine and enjoy the simplicity of it and happy holidays!

AMANDA CUSHMAN is a culinary educator who has cooked professionally for 25 years. She teaches privately for groups of two to 20 students. She has developed hundreds of recipes for cookbooks as well as food magazines and Web sites. She can be reached amandascooking@gmail.com.

Moroccan Chickpea Soup with Sausage Serves 6 Ingredients 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for garnish 1 large onion, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 tsp. ground cinnamon 1 tsp. ground cumin 1/8 tsp. cayenne pepper 1 heaping tsp. sweet paprika 1 (14.5-ounce) can chopped tomatoes 3 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed well 1 quart vegetable broth or chicken broth Kosher salt Freshly ground black pepper 1 Tablespoon canola oil 4 chicken sausages, sliced in 1/4 inch rounds 1 (5-ounce) package pre-washed baby spinach or 1/2 pound leafy greens, washed and chopped Procedure Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until the onions begin to turn translucent; lower heat if browning starts to occur. Add the spices and sauté a minute or so. Add the tomatoes, chickpeas, broth, and season with a couple pinches of salt and 10 grinds fresh pepper. Chickpeas should be just covered with liquid. If level is shy, add some water so the chickpeas are just covered. Bring to a simmer, then lower heat to low and gently simmer for 45 minutes.

Remove soup from heat. Use a potato masher to mash up some of the chickpeas right in the pot.

Heat the canola oil in a medium skillet over medium high heat. Add the sausages and cook until lightly browned, about 5 to 8 minutes. Add to the soup along with the spinach and heat until spinach is wilted about 3 minutes.

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Serve soup, drizzled lightly with extra-virgin olive oil, if desired.

Minestrone Soup Serves 6 Ingredients 2 tbs. olive oil 1 onion, diced 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 carrots, peeled, diced 2 celery stalks, diced 2 small zucchini, diced 6 oz. green beans, trimmed, halved 1 can plum tomatoes, 28 oz., with juices 10 basil leaves, torn into small pieces 1 qt. vegetable or chicken stock salt, pepper, to taste 1/2 cup ditalini or elbow pasta 1 cup canned Canellini beans, rinsed Procedure Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium high heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots and celery sauté for 5 to 8 minutes, to soften the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper.

Add zucchini, green beans, tomatoes, basil and stock and bring to a simmer over medium high heat. Season again with salt and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in pasta and simmer for 10 minutes longer. Stir in beans before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Food Visit us online at smdp.com

Vintners are moving to please No. 44

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! 11 Year Recipient of The Best Western Excellence Award Special Holiday Rates Available

Associated Press Writer

NAPA When People magazine reported seeing an unopened bottle of Kendall-Jackson chardonnay in the Obamas’ kitchen, the California winery fired off a couple of cases to No. 44.

Just another gift? Hardly. Winning over the presidential palate is a big deal for the wine industry, leaving vintners — and vinophiles — curious about what’s on tap for the next occupants of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. “The one thing that I know about them is that they’re quite adventurous in their tastes,” said Chef Rick Bayless, owner of the upscale Chicago restaurant Topolobampo where President-elect Barack Obama and wife Michelle have ordered from the well-regarded wine list.

Wine and the White House go back to No. 1, who tried his hand growing vines at his Mt. Vernon estate in Virginia.

But it was Jefferson who really embraced enology, building and stocking White House Cellars. He also introduced guests, not always successfully, to fine, dry vintages vs. the sweet, fortified wines then in vogue, said John Hailman, author of “Thomas Jefferson and Wine,” and a fellow at the Overby Center for Southern Journalism and Politics at the University of Mississippi.

Getting poured for a president is a thrill that doesn’t fade, said Hugh Davies, president of the Schramsberg winery that moved from relative obscurity to the world stage when Nixon used its sparkling wine to toast Chinese Premier Chou En-lai in Beijing in 1972.

Davies was about 6 at the time, but he remembers the crackle of activity that followed the call as his older brother drove their dad, late winery founder Jack Davies, and 13 cases of wine from the Napa Valley to a nearby Air Force base.

Since then, Schramsberg has been served at a number of White House events, a tradition Davies hopes continues. In fact, he expressed himself willing to accept an inaugural invite — “I’ll bring the wine.”

Kendall-Jackson hasn’t heard back about its shipment, which was sent care of the Democratic National Committee.

But Lettie Teague, executive wine editor for the magazine Food & Wine, said K-J chardonnay seems a good choice for modern times — popular and reasonably priced at around $11 a bottle.

She envisions a bipartisan presidential table graced with blue state reds and red state whites.

“As a New Yorker, I’d like to see some New York wines represented — we were a huge state for him,” she said with a laugh, suggesting a sauvignon blanc or cabernet from the North Fork region or a Finger Lakes Riesling. Other picks: a Washington state merlot, “because I feel they really do that grape well,” a hearty California zinfandel and “to show that he is an all-inclusive sort, I would throw in a viognier from Texas.”

Presidential tastes in wine have ebbed and flowed.

First Lady Lucy Hayes was known as “Lemonade Lucy” for the dry spell that was her husband’s administration.

Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt disagreed over alcohol.

She was teetotaler; he wasn’t. They compromised by serving wine at state dinners — but refilling the glasses slowly, writes historian William Seale in “The President’s House: A History.”

A policy of serving only U.S. wines goes back to the administration of Lyndon Johnson. That turned out to be a slight problem for French wine fan Richard Nixon who sometimes wrapped a napkin around his bottles to obscure their origins, Hailman said.

And then there is Jimmy Carter who didn’t serve hard liquor at the White House, but did serve wine and went on to practice a family tradition of winemaking.

With a new administration moving in, Bayless expects change and a style of entertaining “much more up to date than it’s been in a long time.”

After all, the first time he noticed Obama in his restaurant the then-newly elected Illinois senator had “a really nice bottle of wine on the table,” the chef recalled, “And I thought to myself, now this is somebody I want to get to know.”

Go Green.

Hire locals. It cuts down on commuting, traffic and smog.

Find them in the Santa Monica Daily Press classifieds.

BY MICHELLE LOCKE Your ad could run here!

Call us today at (310) 458-7737

7

Call today to learn about our local hiring packages.

310-458-7737

8

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

YOUR GUIDE TO DINING IN

Santa Monica, Brentwood, West LA and Venice Beach lievable jukebox. Once you visit you'll want to anchor!

MONTANA AVE

17th St Cafe 1610 Montana Ave.

Andrew’s Cheese Shop 728 Montana Ave.

(310) 453-2771 (310) 393-3308

BABALU Excellent Carribean dining featuring a fresh menu focusing on seafood, burgers, salads and world famous homemade desserts. Open daily from 11:30 to 10pm. Wine and beer menu, take out available.

1002 Montana Ave

(310) 395-2500

Blue Plate 1415 Montana Ave. Cafe Dana 1211 Montana Ave. Cafe Montana 1534 Montana Ave Di Dio's Italian Ices 1305 Montana Ave.

(310) 260-8878 (310) 394-0815 (310) 829-3990 (310) 393-2788 (310) 394-6705 (310) 393-2337 (310) 458-4880 (310) 393-7716 (310) 394-2070 (310) 394-8888 (310) 829-0093 (323) 330-8010 (310) 576-6616 (310) 393-1467 (310) 395-6619 (310) 838-4900 (310) 393-2944 (310) 393-0035 (310) 458-1562 (310) 395-6619

The Duck Blind 1102 Montana Ave. Father's Office 1018 Montana Ave. Il Dolce Cafe 1023 Montana Ave #B Le Marmiton 1327 Montana Ave Locanda Portofino 1110 Montana Ave. Louise's Trattoria 1008 Montana Ave. Marmalade 710 Montana Ave. Montana Restaurant & Lounge 1323 Montana Blvd.

Patty's Gourmet Take & Bake Pizza 625 Montana Ave. Pradeeps 1405 Montana Ave. Ristorante Vincenzo 714 Montana Ave. Rosti 931 Montana Ave. Spumoni 713 Montana Ave. Sushi Sho 1303 Montana Ave. Via Dolce 1627 Montana Ave. Vincenzo Ristorante 714 Montana Ave.

MID-CITY Akbar Cuisine Of India 2627 Wilshire Blvd Back On Broadway 2024 Broadway Bergamot Cafe 2525 Michigan Ave. # A3 Big Jos 1955 Broadway Bistro Of Santa Monica Santa Monica Blvd

FOR INQUIRIES ON P R E M I U M L I S T I N G S ,OR A D V E R T I S I N G ON THESE PAGES, CALL [310] 458-7737 Visit us online at smdp.com

R olll Housee Lunch h Special

BISTRO 31 Bistro 31, the culinary student-run restaurant of The International Culinary School at The Art Institute of California – Los Angeles, offers an incredible dining experience at a reasonable price. Students prepare sumptuous international cuisine and deliver it in an elegant setting. Lunch and dinner.

2900 31st St

(310) 314-6057

Bizou Garden 2450 Colorado Ave. #1050 Bread And Porridge 2315 Wilshire Blvd Buon Giorno Caffe 1431 Santa Monica Bl Cafe L'etoile D'or 2311 Santa Monica Blvd Chandni Vegetarian 1909 Wilshire Blvd Coogie's Cafe 2906 Santa Monica Blvd The Corner Cafe 28th St. #121 The Cutting Board 1260 15th St. #105

(310) 472-6020 (310) 453-4941 (310) 260-0073 (310) 315-4375 (310) 828-7060 (310) 829-7871 (310) 452-2905 (310) 434-9924

DAGWOODS Pizza lovers love DAGWOODS for its real hand tossed authentic NY Style Pizza.

Others come for the delicious Italian food: custom made calzones, 100% semolina pasta dishes, giant subs and zesty salads and side dishes. Whatever you choose, it comes at great prices with friendly service. Free Delivery.

820 Wilshire Blvd.

$4.99 - CAL + Miso +Salad $5.99 - CAL or Spicy Tuna + Miso + Salad + Coke

Buy 2 rolls, get 1 free 11a.m. - 3 p.m. only

(310) 586-7469 (310) 453-8919 (310) 828-4001 (310) 828-3191 (310) 453-5442

(310) 899-3030

Daily Grill 2501 Colorado Ave. #b-190 Drago Restaurant 2628 Wilshire Blvd Dragon Palace 2832 Santa Monica Blvd El Cholo 1025 Wilshire Blvd Fromins 1832 Wilshire Blvd House Of Billiards 1901 Wilshire Blvd I H O P 1920 Santa Monica Blvd Casa Escobar 2500 Wilshire Blvd

(310) 309-2170 (310) 828-1585 (310) 829-1462 (310) 899-1106 (310) 829-5443 (310) 828-9203 (310) 829-9100 (310) 828-1315

IZZYS DELI Where the stars meet the locals. Izzys features 10.95 dinners nightly. Since 1970, Izzys has been serving hungry locals the world famous Reuben sandwich and generous omeletes for generations.

1433 Wilshire Blvd

(310) 394-1131

J P's Bar & Grill 1101 Wilshire Blvd Kaido Japense Cuisine 2834 Santa Monica Blvd Kay 'N Dave's 262 26th St. L A Farm Ltd 3000 Olympic Blvd Lee's Chinese Food 1610 Santa Monica Blvd The Lincoln 2460 Wilshire Bl Lucys Lunchbox 710 Wilshire Bl #100 Maya Japanese Food 2840 Santa Monica Blvd Manhattan Bagel 2216 Wilshire Blvd Nawab Of India 1621 Wilshire Bl Networks Cafe 2700 Colorado Ave. #190 Noma Restaurant 2031 Wilshire Blvd Norms Santa Monica 1601 Lincoln Blvd O' Briens 2226 Wilshire Blvd Our Cafe 2104 Wilshire Bl Overunder 1333 Santa Monica Blvd Pacific Dining Car 2700 Wilshire Blvd Pot & Pan Thai Food 2315 Santa Monica Blvd Santa Monica Pizza 1318 Wilshire Blvd The Shack Restaurant 2518 Wilshire Blvd The Slice 915 Wilshire Blvd Sizzler 2025 Wilshire Blvd Snug Harbor 2323 Wilshire Blvd Sunshine Cafe & Grill 2021 Santa Monica Blvd Sushi King 1330 Wilshire Blvd Tacos Por Favor 1406 Olympic Blvd Taqueria Chihuahua 1909 Lincoln Bl Tazzina 1620 Wilshire Blvd Thai Dishes 111 Santa Monica Blvd Toi On Wilshire 1120 Wilshire Blvd Wilshire Restaurant 2454 Wilshire Blvd

(310) 394-7660 (310) 828-7582 (818) 782-6196 (310) 449-4007 (310) 828-5304 (310) 828-2217 (818) 762-6267 (310) 453-2612 (310) 828-3228 (310) 829-1106 (310) 315-0502 (310) 453-4848 (310) 395-6310 (310) 829-5303 (310) 828-5313 (310) 899-0076 (310) 453-4000 (818) 439-7083 (310) 393-4554 (310) 449-1171 (310) 453-2367 (310) 453-3250 (310) 828-2991 (310) 449-7777 (310) 395-0120 (310) 392-5768 (310) 874-2057 (310) 413-4270 (310) 394-6189 (310) 394-7804 (310) 586-1707

DOWNTOWN

3 on Fourth 1432 4th St. #A Abode Restaurant 1541 Ocean Av #150 B O A 101 Santa Monica Bl Baja Buds 1315 Third Street Promenade Bangkok West 606 Santa Monica Blvd

(310) 395-6765 (310) 394-3463 (323) 655-3372 (310) 393-6060 (310) 395-9658

BENIHANA Traditional Japanese teppanyaki room. Sushi appetizers. Open Daily. Please call for specific hours.

1447 4th St.

(310) 260-1423

Bookmark Cafe 601 Santa Monica Bl Bravo Cucina 1319 Third Street Promenade

(310) 587-2665 (310) 394-0374

BRITANNIA PUB Britannia Pub has been a favorite for years for locals and visitors alike. This English pub has a traditonal charm with a Californian flair. A cozy inviting atmosphere makes this a great place to relax and meet new people. Our friendly staff provides you with excellent service for Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner or Cocktails. We also offer live music, karaoke, pool and an unbe-

318 Santa Monica Blvd.

(310) 458-5350

Broadway Deli 1457 Third Street Promenade Brunos Italian Rest Deli 1652 Ocean Ave. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co 301 SM Pier Buca Di Beppo 1442 2nd St. The Cafe 445 Pacific Coast Hwy Cafe Crepe 1460 Third Street Promenade Cafe Paradiso 2408 Wilshire Blvd Cafe Presto 2425 Colorado Ave. #107 B Cafe Sol 2425 Colorado Ave. California Chicken Cafe 2401 Wilshire Blvd California Crisp 13 Santa Monica Place California Pizza Kitchen 214 Wilshire Blvd Callahans Restaurant 1213 Wilshire Blvd Capo 1810 Ocean Ave. Carousel Cafe 1601 Ocean Front Walk Chez Jay 1657 Ocean Ave. Comfort Cafe 420 Broadway Cora's Coffee Shoppe L P 1802 Ocean Ave. Crepes Company Inc 213 Arizona Ave. Dennys Restaurant 1645 1560 Lincoln Blvd Fast Taco 2901 Ocean Park Blvd #115 Fritto Misto 601 Colorado Ave.

(310) 451-0616 (310) 395-5589 (310) 393-0458 (310) 587-0771 (310) 393-8282 (310) 576-0499 (818) 427-1796 (310) 829-7757 (310) 829-0031 (310) 453-0477 (310) 394-3800 (310) 393-9335 (310) 394-6210 (310) 394-5550 (310) 451-4277 (310) 395-1241 (310) 395-6252 (310) 434-2468 (310) 801-0670 (714) 251-5409 (310) 664-8722 (310) 458-2828

FUNNEL MILL The Funnel Mill features imported, organic coffee and teas from around the world. If you eat McDonalds, drink two buck Chuck, and think Starbucks is gourmet, this place is not for you.

Discover what coffee and tea should really taste like to the discerning palate. Try our traditional tea ceremony to truly appreciate the flavors of the East. www.funnelmill.com 930 Broadway Suite A

(310) 597-4395

Gate Of India 115 Santa Monica Blvd Gaucho Grill 1251 Third Street Promenade Georges Bistro 1321 Third Street Hedwigs Cafe 1509 4th St.

(310) 656-1665 (323) 468-0220 (310) 451-8823 (310) 394-3956

THE HIDEOUT The Hideout is Santa Monica's best lounge! We pay attention to details, so you don't have to. Whether you want to come alone, as a couple, with a group of friends, or throw an unforgettable party, we've got you covered!

112 W. Channel Road

(310) 429-1851

Hot Dog On A Stick 1633 Ocean Front Walk

(760) 930-0456

HOUSTON'S Upscale steak and seafood. Live jazz on thursdays upstairs lounge. Full bar, open 11:00 to 11pm daily. Reservations suggested.

202 Wilshire Blvd

(602) 553-2111

I Cugini Restaurant 1501 Ocean Ave.

(310) 451-4595

IL FORNAIO In the tradition of Italy's trattorias, the sight, sounds and aromas of authentic Italian cuisine are recreated everyday at Il Fornaio.

Mornings bring crisp crusted bread hot from the oven accompanied by the scent of fresh brewed espresso. During lunch and dinner, pastas and flavorful sauces simmer while meats and vegetables roast over hot coals.

1551 Ocean Ave.

(415) 945-0500

Infuzion Cafe 1149 3rd St. #100 Interactive Cafe 215 Broadway Ipanema Cafe 150 Santa Monica Place Ivy At The Shore 1535 Ocean Ave. Jinkys Cafe 1447 2nd St. Jiraffe Restaurant 504 Santa Monica Blvd

(310) 393-9985 (310) 395-5009 (310) 838-8586 (310) 278-2908 (818) 981-2250 (310) 917-6671

JOHNNY ROCKETS Every Johnny Rockets restaurant boasts an all-American look and feel with great tasting food including juicy hamburgers, classic sandwiches and hand-dipped shakes and malts. Come in and see for yourself why Johnny Rockets is the place Where the Good Times Roll!TM” 1322 Third Street

(949) 643-6100

Kaiten Restaurant 1456 Third Street La Botte, Inc. 620 Santa Monica Blvd #A La Salsa #44 1401 Third Street Promenade La Serenata 1416 4th St. Le Merigot Hotel 1740 Ocean Ave. Leonidas 331 Santa Monica Blvd Light House Buffet 201 Arizona Ave. The Lobster 1602 Ocean Ave. Locanda Del Lago 231 Arizona Ave. Loews Santa Monica 1700 Ocean Ave. Manchu Wok 11 Santa Monica Pl Mariasol 401 Santa Monica Pier Michaels 1147 3rd St. Musha Restaurant 424 Wilshire Blvd Newsroom Santa Monica Inc 530 Wilshire Ocean Avenue Seafood 1401 Ocean Ave. Ocean Cafe 100 Wilshire Blvd #B1-10

(310) 451-8080 (310) 576-3072 (310) 587-0755 (310) 204-5360 (310) 395-9700 (310) 417-8851 (310) 451-2076 (310) 458-9294 (310) 451-3525 (310) 458-6700 (310) 458-3558 (213) 626-5554 (310) 395-7911 (310) 576-6330 (310) 451-9444 (310) 437-8824 (310) 260-6010

THE ORCHID Asian fusian at it’s best. This Thai restauraunt blends eastern spices and traditional Thai ingredients to make a unique and special dining experience, just a block from the ocean.

119-121 Broadway

(310) 801-5240

P F Chang's China Bistro 326 Wilshire Blvd Panera Bread 501 Wilshire Bl Perrys Pizz 930 Ocean Front Walk Perrys Pizza 2600 Ocean Front Walk Perrys Pizza 1200 Ocean Front Walk Perrys Pizza 2400 Ocean Front Walk Promenade Cafe 321 Santa Monica Bl R A W 609 Broadway Real Food Daily 514 Santa Monica Blvd Renees Court Yard 522 Wilshire Blvd Rustic Canyon 1119 Wilshire Blvd

(310) 395-1912 (714) 241-7705 (310) 372-3138 (310) 372-3138 (310) 458-3975 (310) 372-3138 (213) 700-2373 (310) 451-4148 (310) 393-0804 (310) 451-9341 (310) 560-7787

RUSTY’S SURF RANCH Rusty's Surf Ranch on the Santa Monica Pier is a multi-use facility, featuring the best in live music, dancing and awardwinning cuisine in a California beach environment. With an extensive collection of historic surfboards and memorabilia, Rusty's pays homage to the "Surfing '60s", the Golden Era of California Surf Culture. Rusty's lunch and dinner cuisine are consistent award winners, but great meals share the stage with great music at Rusty's when the Dining Room stage welcomes live music and dancing with top area bands and national acts. Rusty's is available for Special Events during normal operations or as a restricted facility for Private Parties. Rusty's Surf Ranch is a perfect reminder of a simpler time in California's beachfront history, with good food in a casual environment, live music and FUN. Open daily at noon. Happy Hour 4-7p.m.

256 Santa Monica Pier

Scarboni 312 Wilshire Bl

(310)393-PIERS (310) 704-8079

westside

SONNY MCLEAN’S A true bit of Boston on the west coast. A haven for all Boston Sport fans and the west coast home of Red Sox Nation West with an excellent menu offering including fried calms, bellies and all, lobster rolls and great clam chowda’.

2615 Wilshire Blvd.

(310) 449-1811

Stefano's 1310 Third Street Promenade Sunset Bar & Grill 1240 Third Street Sushi Mon 401 Santa Monica Blvd Sushi Roku Santa Monica 1401 Ocean Av Sushi Shogun 1315 Third Street Sushi Teri Express 1551 Ocean Ave. #130 B

(310) 216-7716 (310) 393-3959 (310) 576-7011 (310) 655-3372 (213) 500-4989 (310) 394-2189

SWINGERS The local diner, serving traditional diner fare with a southern california twist. Open 24 hours, the crowd in Swingers will change from late night clubbers to early morning coffee drinkers around 4am.

802 Broadway

(323) 656-6136

Tandoor Cafe 395 Santa Monica Place #009 Tastie16 Santa Monica Place Thai Dishes Restaurant 1910 Wilshire Blvd Tokyo Kitchen 15 Santa Monica Pl T's Thai 1215 4th St. Tudor House 1403 2nd St. Victoria Pizzeria 1607 Ocean Front Walk Villa Italian Specialties 8 Santa Monica Pl Wahoo's Fish Taco 418 Wilshire Blvd Whist 1819 Ocean Av Yangtze 1333 Third Street Promenade Yankee Doodles 1410 Third Street Ye Olde Kings Head 116 Santa Monica Blvd

(310) 435-3845 (310) 770-6745 (310) 828-5634 (310) 451-5385 (310) 395-4106 (310) 451-8470 (310) 394-6863 (310) 451-3031 (949) 222-0670 (310) 260-7509 (310)260-1994 (310)394-4632 (310)451-1402 (310)451-1402

PICO/SUNSET PARK

310 Lounge & Bistro 3321 Pico Blvd.

Abbots Pizza Company 1811 Pico Blvd Acapulco Restaurant 3360 Ocean Park Blvd.

Air Conditioned 2819 Pico Blvd Ameci Pizza Pasta 2218 Lincoln Bl B B Q Garden 1707 Pico Blvd.

The Bread Factory Inc 1900 Pico Bl Buddha Boba 1701 Pico Bl Bud's Famous Deli & Desserts 2727 Ocean Park Blvd.

Cafe Bolivar 1741 Ocean Park Blvd.

Campos Mexican Food Inc 2008 Pico Blvd Classic Pizza 2624 Pico Blvd The Counter 2901 Ocean Park Bl #102 The Daily Pint 2310 Pico Blvd El Indio 2526 Pico Blvd El Pollo Loco Restaurant 1906 Lincoln Blvd El Torito 3360 Ocean Park Blvd.

El Texate 316 Pico Blvd.

Fresh & Natural Cafe 1900 Pico Blvd Ocean Park Pizza 2819 1/2 Ocean Park Blvd Georges Burgers 3101 Lincoln Blvd Gilbert's El Indio Mexican Food 2526 Pico Blvd.

Hotel Casa Del Mar Restaurant 1910 Ocean Way The Hump 3221 Donald Douglas Loop South The Hungry Pocket 1715 Pico Blvd Il Forno Caffe & Pizzeria 2901 Ocean Park Blvd Josie Restaurant 2424 Pico Blvd La Playita 3306 Lincoln Blvd Lazy Daisy Inc 2300 Pico Blvd Le Pain Du Jour 828 Pico Blvd #2 Mandarin Food Service 2618 Pico Bl Michael D'S Cafe 234 Pico Blvd Miyako 2829 Ocean Park Blvd

(310) 453-1331 (310) 314-2777 (310) 450-8665 (310) 829-3700 (310) 314-0090 (310) 450-6494 (310) 434-4653 (626) 674-8882 (310) 450-6860 (310) 581-2344 (310) 450-4477 (310) 399-0452 (310) 399-8383 (310) 450-7631 (310) 450-8057 (310) 392-9800 (310) 450-8665 (310) 399-1115 (310) 392-0516 (310) 450-9949 (310) 452-0445 (310) 450-8057 (310) 581-5533 (310) 390-3177 (310) 458-5335 (310) 450-1241 (310) 581-4201 (310) 452-0090 (310) 450-9011 (310) 399-4870 (310) 396-9559 (310) 452-8737 (310) 396-5588

THE OP CAFE A Small Neighborhood Place With A Family Feel – Serving Breakfast and Lunch Daily. The Freshest Foods, Friendly Service At Unbelievable Prices! So when you want to be treated like family and enjoy some delicious food –The OP CAFÉ is the PLACE!!

3117 Ocean Park Blvd

(310) 452-5720

One Pico Restaurant One Pico Blvd.

Panchos Tacos 2920 Lincoln Blvd Pedals Cafe One Pico Blvd.

Raes Restaurant 2901 Pico Blvd Santa Monica Bar and Grill 3321Pico Blvd Santinos 3021 Lincoln Blvd Sheraton Delfina 530 Pico Blvd The Slice 1622 Ocean Park Spitfire Grill 3300 Airport Ave. Star Of Siam 3133 Lincoln Blvd Subway 2901 Ocean Park Blvd Sunset Grill 1701 Ocean Park Blvd Tandoor India 2622 Pico Bl Tom's No 1 Pico 2350 Pico Blvd.

Typhoon 3221 Donald Douglas Loop UnUrban Coffeehouse 3301 Pico Blvd.

Valentino Restaurant 3115 Pico Blvd

(310) 587-1717 (310) 452-2970 (310) 587-1707 (310) 820-1416 (310) 453-5001 (310) 779-1210 (310) 399-9344 (310) 453-2367 (310) 397-3455 (310) 396-9511 (310) 396-3004 (310) 450-7546 (310) 581-9964 (310) 396-4481 (310) 390-6565 (310) 315-0056 (310) 829-4313

RICHIE PALMER’S PIZZERIA Owned and operated by Richie Palmer, founder of the worldfamous Mulberry Street Pizzeria in Beverly Hills. Palmer says he had to open in Santa Monica so all the people here would stop calling Beverly Hills for delivery. Same great pizza and Italian food.

1355 Ocean Ave

(310) 255-1111

Vitos 2807 Ocean Park Blvd Windows Restaurant 530 Pico Blvd.

Yongs Cafe 3020 Nebraska Ave. Yuni Sushi 1928 Lincoln Blvd Zabies 3003 Ocean Park Blvd

(310) 450-4999 (310) 399-9344 (310) 828-4775 (310) 396-4039 (310) 392-9036

MAIN STREET Amelia's 2645 Main St. Bravo Pizzaria & Deli 2400 Main St. Chinois On Main 2709 Main St. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Ocean Park Blvd.

Creative Sushi 2518 Main St. Dhaba Cuisine Of India 2104 Main St. Elvira's Cha Cha Chicken 1906 Ocean Ave. The Enterprise Fish Co 174 Kinney St. Euphoria Loves RAWvolution 2301 Main St. Finn McCools Irish Pub & Restaurant 2700 Main St. Goudas & Vines 2000 Main Street

Groundwork Coffee Co. 2908 Main St. The Galley 2442 Main St. Holy Guacamole 2906 Main St. It's All Good Bakery 2629 Main St. Joes Main Street Diner 2917 Main St. La Vecchia Cucina 2654 Main St Library Alehouse 2911 Main St. Lula Cocina Mexicana 2720 Main St. Main Street Bagels 2905 Main St. Malia 2424 Main St. Manchego 2510 Main Street Mani's Bakery & Cafe 2507 Main St. O'Briens Irish Pub Oar House 2941 Main St.

(310) 396-9095 (310) 392-7466 (310) 392-3038 (310) 396-6706 (310) 396-2711 (310) 399-9452 (310) 581-1684 (310) 392-8366 (310) 392-9501 (310) 452-1734 (310) 450-6739 (310) 930-3910 (310) 452-1934 (310) 314-4850 (310) 260-0233 (310) 392-5804 (310) 399-7979 (310) 314-4855 (310) 392-5711 (310) 392-6373 (310) 396-4122 (310) 450-3900 (310) 396-7700 (310) 396-4725

OCEAN PARK OMELETTE PARLOR The best breakfast in town, featuring locally grown vegetables from the Farmers Markets. Sinc 1962, the Omelete Parlor has been a staple for Santa Monica locals. 6:30 am to 2pm daily.

2732 Main St.

(310) 399-7892

Oyako 2915 Main St.

(310) 581-3525

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

Panini Garden 2715 Main St Rick's Tavern 2907 Main St Schatzi On Main 3110 Main St Shoop's Delicatessen 2400 Main St Sparky's Fine Frozen Yogurt 3110 Main St. #12 Urth Caffe 2327 Main St. Via Veneto 3009 Main St. The Victorian Baker Cafe 2640 Main St. Wildflour 2807 Main St. World Café 2640 Main St. Yose Restaurant 2435 Main St.

(310) 399-9939 (310) 392-2772 (310) 399-4800 (310) 452-1019 (310) 399-4513 (310) 749-8879 (310) 399-1843 (310) 392-4956 (310) 452-7739 (310) 392-1661 (310) 255-0680

VENICE 26 Beach Restaurant 3100 Washington Blvd.

Abbot's Habit 1401 Abbot Kinney Blvd Abbot's Pizza Co 1407 Abbot Kinney Blvd Agra Indian Kitchen 2553 Lincoln Blvd.

Axe 1009 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Azteca Restaurant 835 Sunset Ave. Baby Blues BBQ 444 Lincoln Blvd.

Beechwood 822 W. Washington Blvd.

Benice 1715 Pacific Ave. Big Daddy and Sons 1425 Ocean Front Walk The Brig 1515 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

The Brick House Cafe 826 Hampton Dr. Cafe 50's 838 Lincoln Blvd.

Casablanca Restaurant 220 Lincoln Blvd.

Chaya 110 Navy St. China Beach Bistro 2024 Pacific Ave. Danny's Deli 23 Windward Ave. French Market Cafe 2321 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Great Western Steak & Hoagie Company 1720 Lincoln Blvd.

Hal's Bar & Grill 1349 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Hama 213 Windward Ave. James Beach 60 N. Venice Blvd.

Joe's Restaurant 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

La Cabana Restaurant 738 Rose Ave. La Meditrina 1029 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Lands End Restaurant 323 Ocean Front Walk Lilly's French Cafe & Bar 1031 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

(310) 823-7526 (310) 399-1171 (310) 396-7334 (310) 396-8749 (310) 664-9787 (310) 396-6576 (310) 396-7675 (310) 448-8884 (310) 396-9938 (310) 508-2793 (310) 399-7537 (310) 581-1639 (310) 399-1955 (310) 392-5751 (310) 396-1179 (310) 823-4646 (310) 566-5610 (310) 577-9775 (310) 450-4545 (310) 396-3105 (310) 396-8783 (310) 823-5396 (310) 399-5811 (310) 392-6161 (310) 396-5000 (310) 392-3997 (310) 314-0004

LINCOLN FINE WINES Now open in Venice. We offer the Best Selection of Wines on the Westside. We have warehouse pricing with friendly service.

Come by and let us find the perfect wine for the perfect occasion! Open 10-8pm and Sun. 11-6pm.

727 Lincoln Blvd.

(310) 392-7816

Maos Kitchen 1512 Pacific Ave. Piccolo Ristorante 5 Dudley Ave. Primitivo Wine Bistro 1025 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Rose Cafe 220 Rose Ave. Shima 1432 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Siam Best Restaurant 2533 Lincoln Blvd.

Stroh’s Gourmet 1239 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Szechwan Restaurant 2905 Washington Blvd.

Uncle Darrow's 2560 S Lincoln Blvd.

Wabi-Sabi 1635 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Wacky Wok 2805 Abbot Kinney Blvd.

(310) 581-8305 (310) 314-3222 (310) 396-5353 (310) 399-0711 (310) 314-0882 (310) 827-8977 (310) 450-5119 (310) 821-6256 (310) 306-4862 (310) 314-2229 (310) 822-7373

MARINA DEL REY Beachside Cafe 4175 Admiralty Way C & O Cucina 3016 Washington Blvd.

Cafe Del Rey 4451 Admiralty Way California Pizza Kitchen 3345 Fiji Way Casa Escobar 14160 Palawan Way Chart House 13950 Panay Way The Cheesecake Factor 4142 Via Marina Chin Chin 13455 Maxella Ave Ste 266 Chipotle Mexican Grill 4718 Admiralty Way Harbor House Restaurant 4211 Admiralty Way Islands 404 Washington Blvd Jer-ne at The Ritz-Carlton 4375 Admiralty Way Kaya Sushi 13400 Washington Blvd.

Kifune Restaurant 405 Washington Blvd Le Marmiton 4724 Admiralty Way Mercedes Grille 14 Washington Blvd Mermaids-Juice Java & More 14045 Panay Way Rainbow Acres Natural Foods 4756 Admiralty Way Sapori Ristorante 13723 Fiji Way Tony P's 4445 Admiralty Way Tsuji No Hana 4714 Lincoln Blvd The Warehouse Restaurant 4499 Admiralty Way

(310) 821-5313 (310) 301-7278 (310) 823-6395 (310) 301-1563 (310) 822-2199 (310) 822-4144 (310) 306-3344 (310) 823-9999 (310) 821-0059 (310) 577-4555 (310) 822-3939 (310) 823-1700 (310) 577-1143 (310) 822-1595 (310) 773-3560 (310) 827-6209 (310) 306-3883 (310) 823-5373 (310) 821-1740 (310) 823-4534 (310) 827-1433 (310) 823-5451

BRENTWOOD Barney's Hamburgers 11660 San Vicente Blvd.

Chez Mimi Restaurant 246 26th St Chin Chin 11740 San Vicente Blvd.

Coral Tree Cafe 11645 San Vicente Blvd.

Harvest Restaurant 13018 San Vicente Blvd.

Literati II 12081 Wilshire Blvd.

Enzo and Angela 11701 Wilshire Blvd.

Trattoria Amici 2538 San Vicente Blvd

(310) 447-6000 (310) 393-0558 (310) 826-2525 (310) 979-8733 (310) 458-6050 (310) 479-3400 (310) 477-3880 (310) 826-4888

WEST LA Anna's Italian Restaurant 10929 Pico Blvd.

Aphrodisiac 10351 Santa Monica Blvd.

The Apple Pan 10801 W. Pico Blvd.

Awash Restaurant 5990 Pico Blvd.

Bombay Cafe 12021 W. Pico Blvd.

Carmine's II Caffe 10463 Santa Monica Blvd.

Colony Cafe 10937 W. Pico Blvd.

En Sushi 11651 Santa Monica Blvd.

DiVita's 11916 Wilshire Blvd.

Feast From the East 1949 Westwood Blvd.

Gaby’s Mediterranean 10445 Venice Blvd.

(310) 474-0102 (310) 470-0792 (310) 475-3585 (323) 939-3233 (310) 473-3388 (310) 441-4706 (310) 470-8909 (310) 477-1551 (310) 478-0286 (310) 475-0400 (310) 559-1808

HAMLET RESTAURANT Hamlet Restaurant & Bar offers a wide selection of fresh fare and an expanded wine list. Dishes such as the California Market Salad, Spice Crusted Ahi, Southern Crab Cakes and Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich are just a few of their new menu additions!

2927 S. Sepulveda Blvd.

(310) 478-1546

Il Grano 11359 Santa Monica Blvd.

John O'Groats 10516 Pico Blvd.

Kay 'n Dave's Cantina 10543 Pico Blvd.

Melanee Thai Restaurant 9562 Pico Blvd.

Ramayani 1777 Westwood Blvd.

Shanghai Diamond Garden 9401 Pico Blvd.

Sisley Restaurant 10800 Pico Blvd.

Sushi Masu 1911 Westwood Blvd.

Torafuku Restaurant 10914 W. Pico Blvd.

Upstairs 2 2311 Cotner Ave. Versailles Restaurant 10319 Venice Blvd.

Wakasan 1929 Westwood Blvd.

The Wine House 2311 Cotner Ave.

(310) 477-7886 (310) 204-0692 (310) 446-8808 (310) 273-4066 (310) 477-3315 (310) 553-0998 (310) 446-3030 (310) 446-4368 (310) 289-0392 (310) 231-0316 (310) 558-3168 (310) 446-4368 (310) 479-3731

Sonny McLean’s New w England Fairee att itss finest Come and enjoy a Fried Clam Dinner (bellies and all!!), Lobster Roll or our Homemade New England Clam Chowder Open daily for lunch at 11:30 2615 WILSHIRE BLVD. SANTA MONICA 310-449-1811 WWW.SONNYMCLEANS.COM

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

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State 10

A newspaper with issues

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

How much is your

time worth?

California’s deficit reaches new heights

BY JUDY LIN Associated Press Writer

ger service n e s s e M h s u R very FREE li e D l a c o L t s Fir OW! N e n o d it t e G

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SEND US YOUR ENTERTAINMENT BRIEFS! EMAIL TO: DANIELA@SMDP.COM OR FAX TO (310) 576-9913 Visit us online at smdp.com

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SACRAMENTO California’s budget shortfall has grown to $14.8 billion for the current fiscal year — $3.6 billion higher than the shortfall legislators already have been unable to solve, Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger said Wednesday.

A clearly frustrated Schwarzenegger called on the so-called “Big 5” legislative leaders to meet this week, and called the state Legislature’s failure to act so far a “shameful performance.”

“We are heading towards a financial Armageddon. We can already see it coming,” Schwarzenegger said.

The governor declared a fiscal emergency last month and called a special session of the new Legislature to address the growing gap, after a previous special session failed to solve the problem. The deficit for the fiscal year that ends this June then was estimated at $11.2 billion.

“What is amazing about all of this is that the Legislature acts as if we have $30 billion of surplus,” Schwarzenegger said.“They met, they debated, they postured and they did nothing.”

The state treasurer, controller, nonpartisan legislative analyst and the governor’s finance director addressed a rare joint session of the state Legislature Monday to warn lawmakers about the dire consequences of doing nothing.

State Controller John Chiang has said California could run out of operating cash by February.

Assembly Speaker Karen Bass, D-Los Angeles, left the next day for Washington, D.C., to appeal to the incoming administration of President-elect Barack Obama for federal assistance for California. Assembly Minority Leader Mike Villines, R-Clovis, was also there Wednesday.

Bass was scheduled to return to California Wednesday but Villines’ press secretary, Jennifer Gibbons, said it wasn’t clear whether the GOP leader would cut his trip short.

Schwarzenegger had proposed $4.7 billion in tax increases and $4.4 billion in program cuts, as well as an economic stimulus plan, as a starting point for negotiations.

So far, Democrats and Republicans have

been unable to reach consensus on how to close the gap.

Republicans have remained steadfastly against raising taxes, rejecting a Democratic proposal for $8.1 billion in cuts and $8.1 billion in tax increases. They have failed to present their own plan, but promised to release a package next week that is expected to contain spending cuts, a cap on future spending and relaxing labor and environmental regulations.

Schwarzenegger was especially critical of his fellow Republican lawmakers for their hardline stance, and said GOP leaders have come unprepared to meetings, making it hard for Democrats to negotiate. He said Republican leaders’ generic comments that they would consider talking about revenues do not go far enough.

“That is not the way to negotiate,” Schwarzenegger said. “You have to say this is what it takes and then I’m ready to increase the revenues.”

Spokespeople for Bass, Villines, and Senate President Pro Tem Darrell Steinberg, DSacramento, did not immediately respond to requests for reaction to the governor’s comments Wednesday.

Senate Minority Leader Dave Cogdill, RFresno, said in a prepared statement that the best solution is to cut spending and stimulate the economy.

“Republicans have been working for years to stimulate the economy,” Cogdill said. “Now we’ve been told that unless we support tax increases, which would harm the economy, the Legislature will not consider enacting these commonsense reforms.”

Schwarzenegger said he wanted a meeting of the Big 5 in the state Capitol Thursday and said he also plans to meet with individual lawmakers. He said he is willing to work through Christmas if that’s what it takes to reach a deal.

“There would be no better Christmas gift for the people of California than for us to solve this crisis,” he said.

The governor unveiled a large deficit clock counting the number of days the Legislature has failed to act since he declared a special session Nov. 5. Schwarzenegger said the clock would be placed outside his Capitol office.

We are now taking items on consignment Furniture, Artwork, Jewelry and Clothing with an agreed valued at $200 or more per item.

Jackson’s famous glove goes on the auction block

BY SANDY COHEN AP Entertainment Writer

You can also shop on Craigslist (Search “BGCV”)

The Boys & Girls Club of Venice Thrift Shop

13347 Washington Blvd. Los Angeles CA 90066 (310)437-4514 Open Tuesday-Sunday 10a.m.-6p.m.

LOS ANGELES Michael Jackson’s glittery glove is going on the auction block.

The glove, which inspired countless copycats, quips and Halloween costumes after it was unveiled in the 1983 video for Jackson’s hit “Billie Jean,” will be part of a five-day auction next year, Julien’s Auctions announced Wednesday.

Jackson is also unloading the grandiose gates that once led to his Neverland Ranch, along with more than 2,000 other personal items.

The King of Pop’s possessions will be on display before the auction begins on April 21, 2009. Bids will be accepted in person and online. The sale is to be broadcast live on Auction Network.

Jackson plans to donate a portion of the proceeds to MusiCares, a charitable organization founded by the Recording Academy to help musicians in need.

The singer has been plagued by financial woes since he was acquitted of childmolestation charges in 2003. He went into default on his sprawling Neverland property earlier this year, before an investment company bought the loan. Last month, Jackson’s lawyers reached a settlement in a $7 million breach-of-contract case brought by a Bahraini sheik.

As Jackson marked his milestone 50th birthday in August, the reclusive star hinted that he would be back to work eventually. “(I’m) looking forward to doing a lot of great things,” he told ABC News. “I think the best is yet to come in my true humble opinion.”

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

11

Local 12

A newspaper with issues

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

Councilmembers maintain politics Gay people not a factor in mayor selection miss work FROM GAY DAY PAGE 3 FROM MAYOR PAGE 1 Katz suggested that a solution could be to rotate the mayor position among the seven councilmembers.

“It takes the politics out of it,” he said.

NEW RESPONSIBILITIES

In addition to running the meetings, the mayor is responsible for setting the agenda with the city manager.

While it’s a stated goal of every mayor, Genser said that he hopes to chair the meetings efficiently so that councilmembers can get out at a reasonable hour, but adding that he wants to set aside enough time to tackle some of the bigger issues.

“I think most of us agree that we need to move through and complete our Land Use and Circulation Element and zoning code,” Genser said. “I do think we (also) need to start planning for longer term open space needs for the city and that may well include collaboration with the high school and how we integrate the high school and Civic Center campuses.”

Though he has chaired the council twice, Genser admits that being a mayor will be a learning process.

He added that a key difference from the previous two stints as mayor and the new term is the collegiality on the current council.

“The council was more divided when I

was mayor in the previous times,” he said.

The position was previously on a oneyear rotation among the councilmembers who served as mayor and mayor pro tem.

Katz was selected as mayor last December after serving as mayor pro tem, switching off with Richard Bloom who was the chair in 2007.

It was Katz’ first time serving as mayor, an experience that the architect said he would like to repeat again.

“It’s a lot more work than just being a councilmember, it’s more work than being pro tem,” Katz said. “But it’s fun … with responsibility tied to it.” melodyh@smdp.com

Actors divided on possible strike form rival group FROM ACTORS PAGE 3 alliance accused it of using the holidays to ensure a low turnout and leave more working actors out of the process.

“We want SAG members to have time to focus on this critical referendum,” Rosenberg said.

The guild plans another town hall meeting in New York on Monday and one in Hollywood on Dec. 17. As well, the guild is

sending out e-mails and fact sheets to members, and will put up testimonials from prominent actors such as Hal Holbrook and Ed Asner on its Web site to urge actors to vote yes.

But actors are divided. In guild elections in September, an upstart group called Unite For Strength broke up the majority control of the national board that had been held by a faction that supports Rosenberg.

However, the Unite group has not clarified its position on the strike vote.

Last week, at a benefit performance at the University of California, Los Angeles, “Mad Men” actor Jon Hamm told The Associated Press that he hoped the labor strife would not affect next year’s TV season.

“I wish it was not happening. I wish there were sound heads on both sides who were able to discuss this like adults,” he said.

hotels,” Lang said. “In theory it’s a great idea, but it’s being done wrong and now that it’s been done wrong, I don’t think it will be done again.”

Out and Equal Workplace Advocates, a San Francisco-based nonprofit group that promotes equality for gay and lesbian employees, suggested that gay marriage supporters could send an effective message beyond Wednesday by openly discussing the issue at their workplaces.

The organization was encouraging gay people who could not miss work to be open about their sexual orientation with co-workers and urging straight employees to speak up when they hear colleagues making homophobic jokes.

“When people go into the voting booth and vote against (gay) rights, they often have no idea they are voting against the person sitting next to them in the next cubicle or office,” said Selisse Berry, Out and Equal’s executive director.

Backers of “Day Without a Gay” organized evening rallies in San Francisco, Austin, Tex. and other cities so supporters could gather to discuss the next steps. Rallies also were held earlier Wednesday on several college campuses in California.

“The movement that fought for equality and succeeded in electing Obama president is really looking to make progressive gains now,” said Mark Airgood.

Santa Monica Woodlawn Cemetery is sponsoring the 61st annual U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots drive Through the gift of a shiny new toy, the Toys for Tots Foundation provides happiness and hope to disadvantaged children who might otherwise be overlooked this holiday season.

This year, the City of Santa Monica’s Woodlawn Cemetery & Mausoleum located at 1847 14th Street (Corner of 14th Street and Pico Blvd.) in Santa Monica located across the street from Santa Monica College is participating in the toy drive as an official toy drop off location.

Donations of new unwrapped toys can be dropped off at the cemetery business office through December 22.

Toys may be dropped off Monday through Friday from 8:00 am until 4:00 pm and Weekends 10:00 am until 3:00 pm.

Please call (310) 458-8717 for additional information.

Local Visit us online at smdp.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

File photo

COMING HOME? A 2007 decision to outsource emergency fire calls to the Los Angeles Fire Department Regional Dispatch Center has led some in the community to reconsider that move. The City Council is currently considering bringing fire dispatch back to Santa Monica.

Bringing dispatch back to town could take up to a year to occur FROM DISPATCH PAGE 1 patcher per 12-hour shift.

Officials spent nearly two years evaluating nine different options to enhance dispatch services, including increasing staff at the Communications Center and creating a regional partnership with Beverly Hills and Culver City. The switch to the regional dispatch center allowed SMFD to acquire $2.4 million in unmatched Homeland Security grant funds to purchase a new fire station alerting system and radios, also offsetting the first 18 months of the contract.

The contract for the 2007-08 fiscal year was estimated at $611,000. Prior to 2005, the cost to operate the SMFD Communication Center was approximately $551,000.

But the longer response time — estimated at 30 second longer than when the calls were handled directly by SMFD — raised concerns.

If the department reverts back to the Communications Center, SMFD officials plan to prepare a budget proposal for additional staffing to address some of the issues that led to the partnership with Los Angeles in the first place. The department will request an additional full-time dispatcher — bringing the total staffing in the center to two dispatchers and one supervisor — and ask for new equipment.

The transition, which could begin as early as January pending council approval, could take up to a year, Davis said. The cost to transition back has not been determined.

“Dispatching from the center wouldn’t

WHEN (IT) WAS PUT INTO THE L.A. SYSTEM IT JUST WASN’T HANDLED THE SAME WAY.” Councilmember Herb Katz occur until we have everything in place, including trained personnel (who are) ready to answer calls when we’re ready to flip the switch,” Davis said.

Some council members said they support bringing the service back in house.

“It’s something that should be handled locally,” Herb Katz said. “When (it) was put into the L.A. system it just wasn’t handled the same way.”

The council’s Richard Bloom said the move was partly an effort to adopt the best practices in the wake of the Sept. 11 attacks, addressing concerns about the ability of regions to respond effectively to large scale emergencies.

“When we adopted the new dispatch plan we were very clear about our needs to make sure that it continued to provide the high level of service that we have in Santa Monica and in that regard for whatever reason, it appears to be falling short,” Bloom said. melodyh@smdp.com

13

Travel 14

A newspaper with issues

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

Wanderlust Dan Dawson

Send comments to editor@smdp.com

File photo

NATURE’S WONDERS: The wildlife on the Monterey Peninsula is sure to please travelers.

INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING IN THE ONLY LOCAL DAILY PAPER IN SANTA MONICA?

Call us at (310) 458-7737

A romantic break from holiday hassle FEEL LIKE A LITTLE ROMANCE THIS

holiday season? If so, take a break from the crowed stores and the holiday craziness and take the six-hour drive up the coast to the perfect romantic getaway spot of the Monterey Peninsula. Here you can find classic coastlines, historic cities, rugged wilderness, and romance by a fire in a Victorian Inn. Winter is the off season here and the streets are quite, there are no lines for attractions, restaurants require no reservations, and you can get some good bargains at the hotels and bed and breakfast’s that dot the coastline.

THE HOUSE THAT LOVE BUILT

Walking through the Tor House is like being a voyeur peeking into the steamy, torrid, and passionate life of two people who were madly in love. It started in the early 1900s with a scandalous affair between Robinson Jeffers and the lovely but married Una Kuster.

When Una’s husband found out about the affair he refused to divorce her and sent her to Europe as punishment where she could only long to be with her true love.

Years passed before she was granted a divorce and the two met again and found their love still very much alive. This is where the story of Tor House begins.

Often overlooked by tourist, Tor House is the manifestation of the love that Robinson had for Una. He was a poet whose poems featured the California landscape as well as other things he held dear such as his love of Una, their bulldog, and his California lifestyle.

He would soon be called the poet of California and even appear on the cover of Time magazine in 1932. The couple arrived on the treeless and windswept area called Carmel Point in 1914 and began to build

their love-nest that would be their home until they died.

Robinson began building the beautiful granite cottage to please his wife who loved everything Irish. Una actually yearned to move to Ireland, but couldn’t as World War I was looming on the horizon. So, Robert built the cottage and later Hawk Tower to look like the homes and towers that dot the Irish countryside. The tower he built completely on his own, writing poetry in the morning and then hauling huge stones up from the seaside to build the tower as a gift for his wife. Robinson built into the house trinkets from friends and unusual items that can still be seen today.

For example, walking around the property you can see a tile that came from the Temple of Heaven in Beijing, a rock from the Pyramids in Giza, and a bench made from the ballast stones of a ship. But, the real beauty of this place lies in the story of Una and Robinson’s undying love and the incredible ocean-side landscape.

Una and Robinson spent most of their life here and often shunned parties and even company to just spend time together in their stone home.

The guided tour is the best way to get to know the history and really understand the passion that built the house. And, to understand the depth of Jeffers’ passion read his two most moving poems, “The Housedog’s Grave,” about the death of his English bulldog, and “Hungerfield” (1954) that explodes with the pain he felt at losing Una. Jeffer’s continued to live in the cottage for 13 years after her death until he died. In Jeffers’ own words, “Against the outcrop boulders of a raised beach we built our house when I and my love were young.

SEE MONTEREY PAGE 15

Travel Visit us online at smdp.com FROM MONTEREY PAGE 14 Here long ago … all that we saw or heard was beautiful”.

SOMETHING FISHY GOING ON

From one of the area’s less visited locations we move to one of Monterey’s most popular, the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

The aquarium sits at the heart of the largest marine sanctuary along the shores of the continental the United States. It has consistently been ranked number one in the United States for its innovative exhibits and unsurpassed visitor experience.

Close to two million people visit each year as there is always something new to see as the animals move to the aquarium and are released only to be replaced by new ones. With nearly 200 galleries and exhibits there is a lot to fall in love with at this special place.

Who wouldn’t be enamored with the playful female otters who cannot be returned to the wild because of injuries.

So, they enjoy life in their 55,000 gallon home and have become surrogate mothers to abandoned otter pups.

These playful ladies will raise the pups as their own till they can be released. You won’t want to miss the Outer Bay exhibit that holds over one million gallons of water or the Kelp Forest where predators and prey swim by behind 7-inch thick glass to everyone’s amazement.

And, perhaps the most mysterious location within the aquarium features the outer-space like creatures found in the world’s largest jellyfish galleries.

Perhaps the best thing to love about the Monterey Bay Aquarium is that it has grown to become one of the leading ocean conservation organizations in the world.

The Sea Otter Rehabilitation program has been responsible for helping and returning to the wild countless injured sea otters. They have a hospital where among other things they can provide surgery to injured fish and have the only Albatross in captivity (which cannot be released because of a permanently damaged wing).

Their rehabilitation program for birds is also well known and there is an aviary where you can see the recovering birds such as the dozen or so Murres, the Penguin’s distant cousins, who reside there after being rescued from an oil spill.

If you go there take one of the special tours they offer such as the “Behind the Scenes” tour which takes you behind the exhibits and gives you a glimpse of the complexities of running such a magnificent place and caring for the more than 35,000 animals and plants.

Your guide will show you how they move sharks from the sea into their temporary new home; you will get to see the kitchens where food is prepared such as kelp shakes and other delicacies, and get to hear of the greatest love story of all.

This is the love story of the octopus and her handler.

Each day the octopus would be fed and cared for by the same handler. Octopi can identify people by touching them with their tentacles and change color to communicate their mood.

For example, red is a signal of happiness. It was not long before the octopus began to turn red every time her handler came to bring her food.

They spent many months together until it was time to release the octopus back into the wild. The handler got to go with the boat and wearing snorkeling gear took the octopus down into the depths of the open water and released her.

The octopus swam around and quickly

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

darted out of sight.

Then, as the handler was turning to leave, the octopus re-appeared and gave her a huge 8-armed hug and turned the happy color of red before leaving the handler crying in her scuba mask.

WINTER IS THE OFF SEASON HERE AND THE STREETS ARE QUITE, THERE ARE NO LINES FOR ATTRACTIONS, RESTAURANTS REQUIRE NO RESERVATIONS, AND YOU CAN GET SOME GOOD BARGAINS AT THE HOTELS AND BED AND BREAKFAST’S THAT DOT THE COASTLINE. ROMANTIC LOCATION

There is simply no more beautiful place to be with that special someone than on the Monterey Peninsula. The quaint towns, the blue waters, and windswept coast all seemed designed to kindle the flames of love. One of the best places for romance is the L’Auberge Hotel and restaurant.

Built in 1929 after a villa in Prague, it is now one of the most luxurious places to stay in Carmel. Each of the 20 rooms features a unique tub which is the focal point of the bathroom. The hotel also offers top of the line linens, flat screen TV’s, and amazing photography by Helmet Horn done just for the hotel. Rooms range from $295 — $650.

The restaurant is also well worth a visit.

The attention to every detail is very evident here from the menu made of pressed copper to the elegant and simple décor. With only 10 tables make a reservation and plan to spend a long leisurely evening enjoying wines from throughout the world and some exotic dishes. The chief changes the menu with the season to take advantage of the local fresh fare.

But, this fall the menu featured cauliflower mousse with fennel seeds and cumin oil, abalone with chanterelle mushrooms, and duck breast with root vegetables. The tasting menu is the best way to go to get a variety of the chief ’s special dishes and each course is paired with the perfect wine.

When in Monterey there are also a few other spots worth mentioning. For example, the Martine Inn in Pacific Grove is a beautiful Victorian styled bed and breakfast with a great location overlooking the water and in walking distance to the famous Cannery Row and the aquarium. Sit by their huge fireplace and enjoy their complimentary wine and cheeses every afternoon.

The two suites on the top floor are more expensive, but worth the ocean views. And, get close to your special someone on a kayak built for two from Adventures by the Sea. Guided tours around the bay are the perfect way to see wildlife.

DAN DAWSON is a travel journalist and dedicated world traveler who has written articles for many publications on adventures abroad. He is also the marketing manager for the Big Blue Bus. Tell him about your favorite vacation spot at www.WonderlustTravel.com

15

National 16

A newspaper with issues

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

Notice of AB 987 – Database of Affordable Units NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that, pursuant to Health & Safety Code Sections 33418(c)(1)- (3), the Redevelopment Agency of the City of Santa Monica has established and is making available to the public on the internet a database listing existing new and substantially rehabilitated housing units developed or otherwise assisted with Low and Moderate Income Housing Funds.

Stocks resume climb after major sell-off

The DATABASE provides the following information for each restricted property: 3 3 3 3 3 3 3

The address and parcel number of the property.

The number of units broken out by the number of bedrooms.

The year the project was completed.

The date when the affordability covenant or restriction was recorded.

The document number of the recording.

The expiration date of the covenant or restriction.

The date and document number of any covenants or notices that may be recorded when an ownership unit is resold.

The DATABASE is available at www.smgov.net/housing Publication Dates:12/11/08 and 12/18/08

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BY JOE BEL BRUNO AND TIM PARADIS AP Business Writer

NEW YORK A surge in commodities prices put Wall Street back on an upward track Wednesday. Stocks rose moderately as investors saw rebounding prices for gold, commodities prices as a reason to snap up energy and materials stocks.

Commodities prices that have been skidding lower for months turned around as investors seemed to have more of an appetite for risk. Gold picked up more than $36 an ounce. That advance spilled over to the stock market, lifting energy stocks including Exxon Mobil Corp., which rose 2.4 percent, and mining company Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc., which added 16 percent.

But shifting sentiment over a possible bailout deal for Detroit’s Big Three automakers tugged at stocks throughout the session. That had major indexes alternating between gains and losses in afternoon trading and dragged financial stocks lower. Financial houses that hold investments in the car companies could see further strain on their balance sheets if big players like General Motors Corp. file bankruptcy.

Still, despite the session’s volatility, the market extended the advance it has had since late November. The rally has been punctuated by a few steep selloffs, including Tuesday’s slide. But most trading had been more subdued than in September and October. The less panicked tone has helped boost confidence that the market might be stitching together a sustainable bottom.

Wall Street remains nervous about the level of opposition to efforts to aid U.S. automakers. Democrats in Congress and the White House finalized an agreement on $14 billion in loans for Detroit’s struggling car companies. However, the plan negotiated by the White House is being opposed by a group of conservatives led

by Sen. John Ensign, R-Nev. The proposal would provide relief for General Motors Corp. and Chrysler LLC. Ford Motor Co. Chief Executive Alan Mulally and Executive Chairman Bill Ford Jr. told The Associated Press Tuesday they don’t need to take the bailout.

According to preliminary calculations, the Dow Jones industrial average rose 70.09, or 0.81 percent, to 8,761.42. On Tuesday, the Dow shed 243 points as investors after disappointing corporate news reminded investors of the magnitude of the economy’s troubles. Stocks have rallied for two sessions before the decline.

Broader stock indicators advanced. The Standard & Poor’s 500 index rose 10.57, or 1.19 percent, to 899.24, and the Nasdaq composite index rose 18.14, or 1.17 percent, to 1,565.48.

The Russell 2000 index of smaller companies rose 10.69, or 2.30 percent, to 476.40.

The number of stocks advancing on the New York Stock Exchange outpaced those declining by 2 to 1. Volume came to a light 1.31 billion shares.

The market’s run during the past several weeks has encouraged some on Wall Street that stocks might be carving out a sustainable recovery. Since reaching mul-

tiyear trading lows on Nov. 20, the Dow has risen 15 percent and the broader S&P 500 has risen 18.1 percent, while the Nasdaq is up 17.6 percent, despite Tuesday’s decline.

In the Treasury market, the four-week bill auctioned with a zero percent yield on Tuesday saw that rate increase. The yield rose to 0.05 percent after having been auctioned on Tuesday with a yield of zero percent. The auction was a dramatic sign of how cautious investors are — they are willing to park their money for the short term in investments that will pay them nothing at all but that will preserve their principal.

The yield on the three-month T-bill fell to 0.01 percent from 0.03 percent late Tuesday, also indicating a high degree of investor unease. The yield on the benchmark 10-year Treasury note, which moves opposite its price, rose to 2.68 percent from 2.65 percent late Tuesday.

The dollar was lower against most other major currencies, while gold prices rose sharply..

Wall Street appears growing more accustomed to the idea that economic news will remain dismal for at least several months and likely well into next year.

Investors looked past a sharp drop in wholesale inventories. The Commerce Department said wholesalers reduced their inventories in October by the largest amount since after the 2001 terrorist attacks as their sales fell by a record amount. Inventories fell by 1.1 percent, far beyond the 0.2 percent economists expected.

Oil prices rose above $44 a barrel as investors looked to an expected OPEC production cut next week, a moved aimed at helping to stabilize prices that have plummeted amid a global economic slowdown. Light, sweet crude rose $1.45 to $43.52 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange.

The market was also watching American International Group Inc., which said Wednesday it is trying to work out plans to square away $10 billion lost in bad trades without turning to tax payers for more money. Last month, the government said it would provide $150 billion to help the insurer remain afloat after tight credit markets made it difficult to access cash.

“I think the fear is that there is going to be a continued need to raise capital,” said Ryan Larson, head of equities trading at Voyageur Asset Management.

That fed worries that other financial houses might be facing their own troubles after placing wrong bets in the unforgiving markets in recent months. The concerns rippled through financial services stocks, causing banks including Citigroup Inc. to give up early gains.

Overseas, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index closed up 5.59 percent, while Japan’s Nikkei 225 added 3.15 percent.

Britain’s FTSE-100 fell 0.32 percent, Germany’s DAX added 0.54 percent, and France’s CAC-40 rose 0.68 percent.

ON THE NET ■ New York Stock Exchange: http://www.nyse.com ■ Nasdaq Stock Market: http://www.nasdaq.com

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

Injured vets still waiting for care

BY KEVIN MAURER Associated Press Writer

FORT BRAGG, N.C. There was nothing dramatic about how Spc. Cristapher Zuetlau’s career in the Army came to an end: he stepped in a hole. But the damage to the tank crewman’s wrenched back was so brutal he can barely walk.

The Army agreed he was no longer fit to serve, but in doing so determined his disability was not severe enough to warrant longterm care by the military. That turned his health care over to the Department of Veterans Affairs, which left him with no retirement benefits and cut off his family from government health care.

Thousands of similar stories caused veterans advocates to protest that the military was manipulating disability ratings to save money, and Congress last year ordered the Pentagon to accept appeals from wounded and injured troops.

So far, officials have yet to examine a single case.

“Congress finally took action to give those troops a fair hearing, and now the Department of Defense is dragging its feet,” said Vanessa Williamson, the policy director at New York-based Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, a veterans’ advocacy group. “Establishing the review board was clearly not the Department of Defense’s priority. And that’s a real shame.”

In the Army alone, thousands of soldiers injured since the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks — including many hurt in combat in Iraq and Afghanistan — are eligible for a review of the numerical disability rating issued by the Army’s Physical Evaluation Board.

That rating is critical.

A number is assigned to the disability based on its severity and long-term impact.

Those rated below 30 percent disabled receive a severance payment that is taxed instead of a monthly retirement check. The veteran continues to get health care, but from the VA rather than the military. But his family, once covered by military health insurance, no longer receives government provided health care.

A rating above 30 percent means a service member gets a monthly retirement check and his family is eligible for care at military hospitals.

“I feel like the Army has ripped me off,” said Zuetlau’s wife, Breana. “When he joined the service he was a fully functioning man.

When he left the service, he is like my child. I have to take care of his needs. He should have been retired instead of just being kicked out.”

Investigations by the Defense Department and The Washington Post found inconsistencies in how the military assigns disability ratings. Veterans advocates claim injuries rated below 30 percent by the Defense Department were being rated much higher by the Department of Veterans Affairs, while the government’s Veterans Disability Benefits Commission has found the Army consistently assigns the lowest ratings.

The VA, for example, rated Zuetlau 100 percent disabled, and the Social Security Administration found him eligible for disability benefits for the back injury and several other ailments, including mental health issues, right shoulder tendinitis, and injuries to a

CONGRESS FINALLY TOOK ACTION TO GIVE THOSE TROOPS A FAIR HEARING, AND NOW THE DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE IS DRAGGING ITS FEET.” Vanessa Williamson

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Policy director at New York-based Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America

wrist and knee.

The three-member Physical Disability Board of Review, created by Congress last December and managed by the Air Force, is charged with reviewing appeals from members and former members of the armed forces who received disability ratings of less than 30 percent.

Before Congress ordered this streamlined review process, veterans were subjected to a lengthy review by a military panel that rarely changed the ratings.

The board was supposed to be in place 90 days after the bill was signed, according to the Congressional mandate. But its formation wasn’t formally announced until June, and officials have said they hope to take the first application for review this month.

“They move slow on those things they don’t like to do,” said retired Army Lt. Col. Mike Parker, an advocate for wounded soldiers. “If the Senate or House had approved a major acquisition program in their version of the (budget) that DOD had proposed, DOD would be ready to hit the ground running when the (budget) finally passed.”

Eileen M. Lainez, a spokeswoman in the Defense Press Office at the Pentagon, said in an e-mail the panel’s creation was delayed because the Defense Department had to create the application process, Internet information sites and develop training programs for newly hired staff.

Loren Dealy, a spokeswoman from the House Armed Services Committee, said lawmakers are not concerned about the delay, but are “keeping an eye on the progress of the board.”

But veterans advocates said the delays reinforce a belief the Defense Department is trying to move wounded veterans off its financial books so that the service, already strapped for resources as it fights two wars, doesn’t have to pay for long-term disability care. It is a claim the Defense Department strongly denies.

“I can assure you that budgetary constraints do not factor into adjudications at any point,” Lainez said. “This has never been a factor and it will not be in the future.”

Not all advocates are upset with the slow pace. Jim Lorraine, who heads the care coalition at the military’s Special Operations Command, said his organization is spreading the word, telling veterans to keep track of records and to be prepared to submit applications.

17

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Sports 18

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

INTERNATIONAL BASEBALL

Johnson to manage U.S.

BY JANIE MCCAULEY AP Sports Writer

LAS VEGAS Davey Johnson will get another

SURF CONDITIONS

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chance to manage the United States.

Johnson guided the U.S. team to a bronze medal at the Beijing Olympics in August and now will manage the Americans in the second World Baseball Classic this spring.

Johnson was a coach under manager Buck Martinez in the 2006 WBC, when a U.S. team loaded with All-Stars failed to reach the semifinals. The Americans lost 2-1 to Mexico to be eliminated from the tournament — a shocking early exit.

Johnson wants to change things this time around in the 16-team Classic.

“I just don’t think we were ready,” Johnson said Wednesday at the winter meetings, where he was formally introduced. “I don’t think anybody knew what to expect. A lot of the pitchers had not had enough throwing and they weren’t prepared.”

Johnson already has one roster spot set. It was also announced that New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter will play for the U.S. team — and USA Baseball executive director Paul Seiler didn’t hesitate in naming Jeter the starter.

The 65-year-old Johnson spent 14 seasons as a big league manager, highlighted by his 1986 World Series win with the New York Mets. He spent the first seven years of his managerial career with New York, then three as skipper of the Cincinnati Reds, followed by two years each with the Baltimore Orioles and the Dodgers.

“He wants to win this thing, as the United States does,” Seiler said of Johnson.

“Obviously his professional and playing credentials speak for themselves.”

Johnson hopes to be in touch with players by later this month to gauge their inter-

est and begin developing a legitimate list of possibilities for his roster.

Union head Donald Fehr said 600 players have signed agreements indicating they would like to participate. The 2006 WBC drew 486 players, about 235 of them from the majors.

Provisional 45-man rosters will be announced Jan. 19, with final rosters of 28 players set by Feb. 24. First-round games will be played in Tokyo, Mexico City, Toronto and San Juan, Puerto Rico. Defending champion Japan faces China on March 5 in the opening game.

Second-round action moves to San Diego and Miami, while the semifinals and finals will be played at Dodger Stadium.

“We feel we’re going to get more people this year because now they know what it’s about,” said Hall of Fame manager Tommy Lasorda, introduced as the global ambassador for the WBC. “Each of the countries feels they can win it. We believe we can win it.

That’s what our purpose is, of course.”

Jeter expects the Americans to be better prepared for the second WBC. “When the World Baseball Classic first started, there was a lot of skepticism, especially on behalf of the players,” the Yankees captain said. “No one knew it was going to work and no one knew if they wanted to play and if it would take away from the season and spring training. Then we had the opportunity to get on the field and every player to a man was so excited to represent their country.”

More than 740,000 fans from 48 states and 15 countries attended games during the inaugural WBC and officials expect even more interest for the 2009 event. It could be expanded to include more teams for 2012, when baseball will be left off the Olympic program at the London Games.

NCAA FOOTBALL

Harrell leaves mark on Texas Tech

BY BETSY BLANEY Associated Press Writer

LUBBOCK, Texas Heisman Trophy voters probably needed no introduction to Graham Harrell before the season started.

The Texas Tech quarterback had produced Heisman-like numbers for two years, just like his predecessors in coach Mike Leach’s passerfriendly offense. The numbers were similar his senior year, except in the standings. That’s where Harrell set himself apart.

With Harrell leading the way, the Red Raiders had their first 10-0 start in 70 years, beat a No. 1 team for the first time and climbed higher in the polls than ever before, to No. 2.

Along the way, Harrell moved within two touchdown passes of breaking the NCAA career record and set plenty of Big 12 marks — likely earning a spot among the finalists headed to New York for Saturday’s Heisman ceremony.

“He doesn’t have the supporting cast a whole bunch of those other guys have and yet he’s more productive, he’s got more yards, more touchdowns, more, more, more,” said Leach, who last week called Harrell a “no-brainer” to win the Heisman because of his leadership, poise and courage.

But here’s the problem: a late-season 6521 loss at Oklahoma, where Harrell had one first-half TD while Tech fell behind 35-7 in a showdown with one of the Heisman

favorites, Sooners quarterback Sam Bradford. Harrell said his 4,747 yards and 41 touchdowns probably won’t be enough to overcome Tech’s only loss.

“In the past it didn’t matter so much about a team, but now I think ... it does matter,” Harrell said. “In a program that usually wins about eight games a season, to go 11-1 in the Big 12 this year ... is something that I don’t think many people would have given us much of a chance to do.”

Even if he doesn’t win the Heisman, Harrell has left his mark at Texas Tech.

Quarterbacks are usually noteworthy after they play in Leach’s offense, not before.

Harrell was the exception — a big-name recruit from a big market (the Dallas-Fort Worth area) — and he matched the hype.

In the Cotton Bowl against Mississippi, Harrell will pad his Big 12 career leads in yards (15,429) and completions (1,367).

Sitting at 130 passing TDs, he’s likely to break Colt Brennan’s NCAA record of 131 set last year at Hawaii.

“I don’t know if I’ve lived up to what everyone hoped I’d be, but hopefully I did,” Harrell said.

Then there was the defining moment of his season, probably his career. Down 33-32 to then-No. 1 Texas, Harrell threw a perfect deep sideline pass to his favorite receiver, Michael Crabtree, who tiptoed a couple of yards along the sideline and danced into the end zone for a 28-yard score with 1 second remaining.

Movie TimesHoroscope Visit us online at smdp.com

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Visit over a meal, Capricorn ARIES (March 21-April 19)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

★★★★★ Your mood changes quickly, adding to the level of camaraderie and openness. Where someone could be far too loquacious for others, right now, you find this person’s talkativeness OK. News from a distance might have you reorganizing. Tonight: Out and about.

★★★★★ You spontaneously make the right decision and choose in which direction to go.

You could be way too tired for your own good.

Let a loved one or child add to the quality of your day. Take the high road. Tonight: Choose a mind-relaxing activity.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20)

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

★★★★ Someone you care about doesn’t hesitate to give you a piece of his or her mind, whether you want to hear it or not. Keep smiling, and you’ll impress others - if nothing else, with your evenness and patience. Accept differences. Tonight: Play Santa.

★★★★★ Work with others directly. The less you delegate right now, the better off you will be. A family member lets you know how much he or she counts. Your creativity surges with friends or loved ones. Tonight: Let a partner try to draw you in.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)

★★★★★ You are in your element, though others might feel compelled to test your limits and decisions. Someone at a distance expresses his or her caring. Be willing to look at a situation far differently. Tonight: Do whatever makes you smile.

★★★★ Someone close can get the best of you.

Don’t let yourself be triggered; rather, take a walk. Use exercise to help reduce your stress level. Upset on a profound level, or perhaps a volatile roommate, might be difficult to handle.

Tonight: Defer to others.

CANCER (June 21-July 22) ★★ Know when to kick back and possibly say nothing. Sometimes saying less means more. A person will ask questions when he or she is ready.

Unexpected news could have you revamping your plans. Tonight: Take some personal time.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) ★★★★ You might want to do something very differently. Understand what needs to happen and just dig in and get the job done. Unexpected communication or someone’s stance could trigger you. Tonight: Visit over a meal.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22) ★★★★★ You might be best with crowds. A meeting helps you resolve an issue that might involve a partner. This person has been acting weirdly for a while. Find an outlet for your high energy rather than get into a disagreement.

Tonight: Where the crowds can be found.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20)

★★★ Take a stand rather than feel suppressed.

You might want to tap into another’s good will. A partner who has been wild and challenging simply might not help. Avoid a confrontation if possible. Tonight: Try a brisk walk to lessen tension.

★★★ No one needs to tell you what the ramifications could be of your unpredictability. You are already seeing the net results. Stop reacting. Then look within to see if this behavior is the result of an inner transformation. Tonight: Relax at home.

Happy birthday

★★★★★ A friend could be aggressive, in your opinion, especially when it comes to your wallet. Try to be diplomatic. Express your vulnerable self when working through a problem.

Tonight: Dance the night away.

JACQUELINE BIGAR’S STARS The stars show the kind of day you’ll have: ★★★★★Dynamic ★★ So-So ★★★★ Positive ★ Difficult ★★★ Average

You’ll go far this year if you learn to channel your energy and, sometimes, dissatisfaction in a positive manner. You need to know when to pull back and regroup. People you have taken for granted might no longer be available if you’re not careful. Learn to express yourself in a way in which others can receive even the most unwanted news. Opt for a seminar or workshop in the art of communicating. If you are single, you are a magnet to others. Don’t move too quickly, as you could feel cramped or uncomfortable. If you are attached, the two of you will seem as if you have very different agendas. Be understanding. Stay open. GEMINI can often challenge you.

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

Girls and Sports

Sudoku

By Justin Borus and Andrew Feinstein

Fill in the blank cells using numbers 1 to 9. Each number can appear only once in each row, column, and 3x3 block. Use logic and process of elimination to solve the puzzle. The difficulty level ranges from ★ (easiest) to ★★★★★ (hardest).

The Meaning of Lila

By John Forgetta & L.A. Rose

King Features Syndicate

GETTING STARTED There are many strategies to solving Sudoku. One way to begin is to examine each 3x3 grid and figure out which numbers are missing. Then, based on the other numbers in the row and column of each blank cell, find which of the missing numbers will work. Eliminating numbers will eventually lead you to the answer.

The Other Coast

By Adrian Raeside

SOLUTIONS TO YESTERDAY’S PUZZLE

Garfield

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ODDS OF A CHILD BEING IN A FATAL AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT: 1 in 23,000

ODDS OF A CHILD BEING DIAGNOSED WITH AUTISM: 1 in 166

To learn the signs of autism, visit autismspeaks.org

Dog eat Doug

By Jim Davis

By Brian Anderson

Comics & Stuff Visit us online at smdp.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

21

DAILY LOTTERY 11 12 26 31 33 Meganumber: 27 Jackpot: $170M 15 26 29 37 45 Meganumber: 22 Jackpot: $27M 6 15 30 34 35 MIDDAY: 2 0 8 EVENING: 4 9 3 1st: 12 Lucky Charms 2nd: 03 Hot Shot 3rd: 02 Lucky Star RACE TIME: 1:41.49

MYSTERY PHOTO

Alex Cantarero news@smdp.com The first person who can correctly identify where this image was captured wins a prize from the Santa Monica Daily Press. Send answers to editor@smdp.com.

Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the winning number information, mistakes can occur. In the event of any discrepancies, California State laws and California Lottery regulations will prevail. Complete game information and prize claiming instructions are available at California Lottery retailers. Visit the California State Lottery web site at http://www.calottery.com

NEWS OF THE WEIRD BY

Strange Brew

By John Deering

Speed Bump

By Dave Coverly

CHUCK

SHEPARD

■ Budget Relief for the California Government: A homeless transient, Steven Butcher, 50, was convicted of starting fires in the Los Padres National Forest near Santa Barbara in 2002 and 2006 (the latter which burned 163,000 acres) and in November was sentenced to nearly four years in prison. When Butcher gets out, he can work on the other part of his sentence, as he was also ordered to pay back the state for the fires' costs, in the amount of $101 million.

■ When the Poway Unified School District near San Diego cut teachers' printing budgets this year, some handout-intensive instructors had to dip into their own pockets to keep their students supplied. Calculus teacher Tom Farber decided in September to sell ad space on page one of his exams, at $10 for a quiz and up to $30 on the semester final.

As of November, he told the San Diego Union-Tribune, only parentsponsored inspirational messages have been bought, but he said he would welcome certain retailers' ads.

■ Economic Stimulus: A British surgeon will spend an estimated 250,000 pounds ($370,000) to equip her luxury home in Gloustershire with a state-of-the-art, three-room suite for her two Great Danes, including cameras so that she can monitor them via the Internet while she is away. Instead of an ordinary dog door, a retina scanner will control entry, and rather than rely on human stewards, the big darlings will be dispensed filtered water and dry food automatically in self-cleaning bowls.

A temperature-regulated saline spa is available for relaxing dips before turning in for the night on sheepskinlined dog beds.

TODAY IN HISTORY Che Guevara speaks at the United Nations General Assembly in New York City.

1964

WORD UP!

Your ad could run here!

Call us today at (310) 458-7737

homologous \huh-MOL-uhguhs; hoh-\, adjective : 1. corresponding in position, proportion, structure, value, or other property 2. in biology, corresponding in type of structure and in origin but not necessarily in appearance or function 3. in chemistry, belonging to a series where successive members differ regularly in formula, especially a series of organic compounds differing by multiples of CH2, such as the alcohols and aldehydes

22

A newspaper with issues

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

Classifieds

550 per day. Up to 15 words, 20 cents each additional word.

$

Call us today start and promoting your business opportunities to our daily readership of over 40,000.

Miscellaneous **ALL Satellite Systems are not the same. Programming starting under $20 per month, HDTV programming under $10 per month and FREE HD and DVR systems for new callers.

CALL NOW 1-800-799-4935 AIRLINES ARE HIRING – Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career.

FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Job placement assistance.

CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (888) 349-5387 ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE form Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Computers, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified.

Call 800-510-0784 www.CenturaOnline.com FREE DIRECTV 4 Room System!

265+ Channels! Starts $29.99!

FREE HBO, Showtime, Starz!

130 HD Channels!

FREE DVR/HD! No Start Up Costs!

Local Installers! 1-800-620-0058 GET A COMPUTER Brand Name laptops & Desktops BAD or NO Credit – no Problem Smallest Weekly payments avail.

Its Yours NOW 1-800-804-7475 Reach over 30 million homes with one buy. Advertise in NANI for only $2,795 per week! For information, visit www.naninetwork.com.

Say Good-Bye Dial-Up! Get Highspeed Broadband Internet by Satellite.

Available Now. Quick Installation.

Only $99 Start-Up! $50 Rebate. Call Today.

1-(866) 425-4990 www.ContinuousBroadband.com

Announcements AFFORDABLE HOUSING OPEN Community Corporation of Santa Monica announces the opening of the 2009 Marketing List. To be considered you must pick up an appointment card at 502 Colorado Blvd. In the Community Room between Dec. 8th and Dec. 31st, M-Th 8a.m. - 5 p.m., Friday Dec. 12th and 26th 8 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Closed Dec. 19 and 25, EOH

Employment Wanted

Employment Advertising Sales The Santa Monica Daily Press, Santa Monica’s Daily newspaper is seeking an Advertising Account Executive.

Previous advertising sales experience isn’t needed but it’s certainly a plus. The job is meeting and networking with local and national businesses to help them get their message to our readers here in Santa Monica. We’re looking for smart, friendly people who are motivated by money to join our growing sales team. Great work environment, must bring a positive attitude and outlook to our team. If you play well with others, are aggressive without being pushy, and have a drive to succeed, we want to work with you.

Resumes are accepted via email to Rob Schwenker – Schwenker@smdp.com BOOKKEEPER POSITION available in pleasant Santa Monica office various bookkeeping, and general office duties (310)587-1113 CASHIER POSITION for gas station.

Immediate positions available. Customer service. Call for more information. (310)451-2355, (310)498-7910 EMAIL PROCESSORS NEEDED! $15.00-$25.00 per Email Income Potential Easy! No Experience Necessary. Genuine Home Based Opportunity. Start Immediately and Make Extra Cash Online!

Visit: www.EasyEmailJob.com GIVE OF YOURSELF American Cancer Society Discovery Shop needs sales help. You can contribute by spending 4 hours per week Thurs., Fri., or Sat.assisting in our up-scale resale shop in Santa Monica. Conact Terry or Shaunnah at (310) 458-4490.

IMMEDIATE POSITIONS available in the Environmental Services Department. Housekeepers needed hospital experience preferred. Must speak English Call (310)829-8431 for interview.

Movie Extras/Models Needed!

Earn $100-$300 per day.

No Experience Required. PT/FT. All Looks and Ages Needed.

Call Now!! 1-800-605-6851

$$$HELP WANTED$$$ Earn Extra income assembling CD cases from Home. 1-800-257-3944 Ext 104 www.easywork-greatpay.com $$$WORK FROM HOME$$$ Earn Up To $3,800 Weekly Working from Home assembling Information packets.

No Experience Necessary! Start Immediately! FREE Information. CALL 24hrs.

1-888-202-1012 **AWESOME CAREER** Government Postal Jobs! $17.80 to $59.00 hour Entry Level.

No Experience Required / NOW HIRING! Green Card O.K. Call 1-800-913-4384 x 53 ASSEMBLE MAGNETS & CRAFTS FROM HOME! Year-round Work! Excellent Pay! No Experience! Top US Company! Glue Gun, Painting, Jewelry & More!

TOLL FREE 1-866-844-5091, CODE 5 *** Not available in MD*** DATA ENTRY PROCESSORS NEEDED! Earn $3,500 - $5,000 Weekly Working from Home! Guaranteed Paychecks! No Experience Necessary! Positions Available Today! Register Online Now! www.DataPositions.com Government Jobs - $12-$48/hr Paid Training, full benefits. Call for information on current hiring positions in Homeland Security. Wildlife, Clerical and professional.

1-800-320-9353 x 2100 POST OFFICE NOW HIRING Avg. Pay $20/hour or $57K annually including Federal Benefits and OT. Placed by adSource not affiliated w/USPS who hires. 1-866-574-4781

WEEKLY PAYCHECK Possible from Home Processing Our Mortgage Assistance Postcards.

References Available. No Advertising.

All Materials provided. No Gimmicks.

877-774-9295

Mystery shoppers earn summer gas money. Up to 150$/day. Undercover shoppers needed to judge retail and dining establishments.

Exp not req.

800-742-6941

DIRECTV FREE 4 Room System!

265+ Channels! Starts $29.99!

FREE HBO, Showtime, Starz!

130 HD Channels!

FREE DVR/HD! No Start Up Costs!

Local Installers!

1-800-973-9044

PART-TIME OR FULL-TIME Driver. Must have own car, need to be familiar with L.A. have Ca. driver’s license, English speaking. Can earn up to $100/ a day.

Submit resume to bsberkowitz@aol.com

“DIRECTV Satellite TV: Save $23/month for one year plus 3 Free months of HBO, Starz and Showtime! Call Expert Satellite 1-866-926-2066 (credit card required)”

BIG SCREEN TV 51” for Sale Panasonic Good Condition and Quality $300.00 (310) 292-4624

Run your personals here!

BOLD IT! MAKE YOUR AD STAND OUT

CALL TODAY FOR SPECIAL MONTHLY RATES! There is no more convincing medium than a DAILY local newspaper.

Prepay your ad today!

(310)

Announcements Creative Employment For Sale

Furniture Pets Boats Jewelry Wanted Travel

Vacation Rentals Apartments/Condos Rent Houses for Rent Roomates Commerical Lease

458-7737

Real Estate Real Estate Loans Storage Space Vehicles for Sale Massage Services

Computer Services Attorney Services Business Opportunities Yard Sales Health and Beauty Fitness

Wealth and Success Lost and Found Personals Psychic Obituaries Tutoring

All classified liner ads are placed on our website for FREE! Check out www.smdp.com for more info.

Resorts/Timeshares

STEEL BUILDINGS All sizes welcome. Steel prices are down!

Will help with design.

Additional discounts available. www.greylensteel.com 1-866-802-8573

BUY TIMESHARE RESALES SAVE 60-80% OFF RETAIL!!

BEST RESORTS & SEASONS. Call for FREE TIMESHARE MAGAZINE! 1-800-639-5319 www.holidaygroup.com/flier SELL/RENT YOUR TIMESHARE NOW!!!

Maintenance fees too high? Need Cash?

Sell your unused timeshare today.

No Commissions or Broker Fees.

Free Consultation www.sellatimeshare.com 1-877-494-8246

Auto Donations

For Rent

DONATE A CAR – HELP CHILDREN FIGHTING DIABETES Fast Free Towing. Call 7 days/week.

Non-runners OK. Tax Deductible. Call Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation 1-800-578-0408

MAR VISTA, 11621 Braddock Dr. unit 16 2bdrm. 1.5 bath, $1350, townhouse style, stove, carpt, w/d hookup, patio, gated parking, carpet, intercom entry, no pets.$500 off move-in (310)967-4471 www.jkwproperties.com

Computers

WLA, LARGE 3+2. OCEAN VIEW, top of hill, prv drvwy, 3 patios/backyard, gated, no pets. Redeco $2550/mo 310-390-4610.

A NEW COMPUTER NOW! Brand Name Bad or NO Credit – No Problem Smallest weekly payments avail.

Call NOW 1-800-640-0656 FREE NINTENDO WII!!

With your New Computer Brand Name Laptops Bad or NO CreditNo Problem smallest weekly payments.

Call Now 1-800-804-5010 FREE Nintendo Wii!!

With your New Computer Brand Name Laptops Bad or NO Credit – No Problem Smallest weekly payments.

Call Now 1-800-804-7273

1248 11TH st. unit I, 3bdrm/1 1/2bath, stove, carpet, blinds, laundry, parking, no pets.on site manager $2550/mo $500 off move in (310)393-6322 www.jkwproperties.com 3623 KEYSTONE Ave.unit 5, $795 bachelor, lower, fridge, microwave, carpet, blinds, utilities included laundry, parking, no pets $200 off move- in (310)578-7512 jkwproperties.com 615 1/2 MIDVALE lower Bachelor, no kitchen, sink, fridge,hot plate,, ceiling fan, carpet, street parking, no pets $895/mo (310)578-7512 wwwjkwproperties.com

GET A NEW COMPUTER Brand Name laptops & Desktops BAD or NO Credit – No Problem Smallest weekly payments avail.

Its Yours NOW 1-800-932-3721

BRAND NEW one bedroom/ 1 bath for rent in SM ,hardwood floors, stove, refrig,.brand new appliances call Shaun $1700 (310)849-3500

Instruction

Business Opps

For Sale

Call us today at (310) 458-7737

CLASSIFICATIONS:

MEMORY FOAM THERAPEUTIC NASA VISCO MATTRESSES WHOLESALE! T-$299 F-$349 Q-$399 K-$499 ADJUSTABLES - $799 FREE DELIVERY 25 YEAR WARRANTY 60 NIGHT TRIAL 1-800-ATSLEEP 1-800-287-5337 WWW.MATTRESSDR.COM

Help Wanted

458-7737

*Please call our Classified Sales Manager to reserve your ad space. Specific ad placement not gauranteed on classified ads. Ad must meet deadline requirements. See complete conditions below.

PART-TIME SALES position. Our attorney service is looking for referrals to law firms. Referrals result in ongoing commissions. Submit resume to bsberkowitz@aol.com

Employment

Call us today at (310) 458-7737

(310)

For Sale

OUR HOUSEKEEPER is looking for work every other Monday Excellent cleaning, good English, excellent references.Please call Raquel after 5 at (213)736-5362

Your ad could run here!

Some restrictions may apply.

Prepay your ad today!

Employment

Customer service/sales position/on site coordinator at lawfirm in Santa Monica.

Prior experience in lawfirm preferred.Salary negotiable. Contact bsberkowitz@aol.com.

$$$ $997.00 PAYMENTS! Over & Over By Showing People AMAZING Movie! NO Selling! NO Phone Calls!

Fully Automated!

(800) 584-2490 (24 Hours) Register Online! www.RichAverageJoe.com

YOUR AD COULD RUN TOMORROW!*

HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Fast Affordable & Accredited FREE Brochure. Call NOW! 1-888-583-2123 www.continentalacademy.com

Now Accepting Enrollment

Room and Board 401 Montana Avenue Your home away from home.

Daily meals, laundry, housekeeping, utilities, and cable. Studios, 1bdrms avaliable. Seniors and all ages welcome.

Ask about move-in special 1 month FREE.

IMMEDIATE OPENINGS

Starting at $1,800/MO Beautiful Montana Gardens

(310) 245-9436

HOWARD MANAGEMENT GROUP (310) 869-7901 1234 11th Street # 8 1bdrm/1bath $1845 1417 11th Street #E 1bdrm/1bath $1395 835 Pacific #6 Single $1350 All Utilities Included PLEASE Visit our website for complete listings at: www.howardmanagement.com rentals@howardmanagement.com L.A. GROVE area 428 N Orange Grove unit 103 1+1 stove, fridge, blinds, hardwood floors, on-site laundry no pets $1250/mo $300 off move-in (310) 578-7512 jkwproperties.com L.A. GROVE area 431 1/2 Genesse 2+1 stove, fridge, blinds, hardwood & tilefloors, seperate tub on-site laundry garage parking no pets $1875/mo $500 off move-in (310) 578-7512 jkwproperties.com

MAR VISTA 12450 Culver Blvd. Unit 206 & 208 1bdrm/1bath, gated parking, intercom entry, stove, fridge, utilities included, laundry, parking, no pets. $1195/mo $400 off move-in on site manager (888)414-7778 www.jkwproperties.com

• Pre 1st • Music Class • Play ball Movement Class • Cooking • Hot Lunches • 3 Large Yards • Developmentally Academic • Small classes/individualized attention for success • All Jewish Holidays Honored

MAR VISTA 12610 CASWELL ave.unit 7, 1bdrm/1ba $1175/mo.upper, stove, fridge, carpet, blinds, parking,laundry, no pets.$200 off move-in (310)578-7512 www.jkwproperties.com

Maohr Hatorah Preschool 1537 Franklin St,. Santa Monica (310) 453-2609/(323) 997-6252

Call us today at (310) 458-7737

Newly Lowered Rates

Mar Vista $2300.00 2Bdrms, 2 Baths W / Loft Stove, Refrig, Dshwshr, Wshr/Dryr, Gated Parking, NO PETS 4077 Inglewood Blvd, # 4, 5, Call for Appt.

(310)780-3354

Education

Your ad could run here!

For Rent

Santa Monica/ West LA $1395.00 & up 1Bdrm, 2 Bdrms W/ Lofts See manager at 2535 Kansas Ave #101 for list of vacancies

MAR VISTA 2bdrm/1bath, 11461 Washington Place.Unit D, upper, stove, blinds, carpet, laundry, street parking, no pets $1450 $300 off move-in (310)578-7512 jkwproperties.com One bedroom apartment West LA $1300 (310)391-8880

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING CONDITIONS: REGULAR RATE: $5.50 a day. Ads over 15 words add 20¢ per word per day. Ad must run a minimum of twelve consecutive days. PREMIUMS: First two words caps no charge. Bold words, italics, centered lines, etc. cost extra.

Please call for rates. TYPOS: Check your ad the first day of publication. Sorry, we do not issue credit after an ad has run more than once.

DEADLINES: 3:00 p.m. prior the day of publication except for Monday’s paper when the deadline is Friday at 2:30 p.m. PAYMENT: All private party ads must be pre-paid. We accept checks, credit cards, and of course cash. CORRESPONDENCE: To place your ad call our offices 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, (310) 458-7737; send a check or money order with ad copy to The Santa Monica Daily Press, P.O. Box 1380, Santa Monica, CA 90406 or stop in at our office located at 410 Broadway, Suite B, Santa Monica. OTHER RATES: For information about the professional services directory or classified display ads, please call our office at (310) 458-7737.

HOURS MONDAY - FRIDAY 9:00am - 5:00pm

LOCATION 410 Broadway, Suite B, Santa Monica, CA 90401

Visit us online at smdp.com

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

GET RID OF YOUR ROLLERBLADES. Sell your sports equipment to someone who will actually use it.

Prepay your ad today!

(310)

For Rent

458-7737 Real Estate

Santa Monica/ West LA $1395.00 & up 1Bdrm, 2 Bdrms W/ Lofts See manager at 2535 Kansas Ave #101 for list of vacancies

CALL TODAY FOR SPECIAL MONTHLY RATES! There is no more convincing medium than a DAILY local newspaper.

Services

Services

Personal Trainer

Therapy

Lou Ferrigno Jr

SINGLE 12746 Pacific Ave. unit 2 Lower stove, fridge, dishwasher, wall ac, carpet, blinds, laundry, pation, intercom entry, restricted parking, no pets. $1000.

(310)578-7512 www.jkwproperties.com

Certified Private Fitness Trainer

23

Classifieds

$ 50 5 per day. Up to 15 words, 20 cents each additional word.

STILL L SMOKING? Life is short — Why make it shorter

John J. McGrail, C.Ht. SM ROOM for rent 11th & Wilshire $1100/mo 3brdm/2bath apartment, new appliances, large living room w/fireplace, walking distance to beach call Kelly (805)284-8914

*Lose weight, shed bodyfat *Exclusively private facility *Individualized routines!

(310) 913-2232 FERRIGKNOW@gmail.com

WLA $1750/MO. Large bright 2 bdrm upper, on Barrington near National. Very spacious. Large closets, crown moldings, new carpet appliances Closed garage Well maintained, charming, older building in popular WLA area.near Whole Foods. FREE MONTH WITH ONE YEAR LEASE (310)828-4481 or (310)993-0414 after 6pm.

Houses For Rent

WLA 2577 Armacost Ave, 2bdrm/ 1 bath stove dishwasher microwave carpet central AC/heat 2 car garage front & backyard pet ok with deposit $2700 (310)578-7512 www.jkwproperties.com

Commercial Lease PRIME RENTAL 1430 Lincoln Blvd Close to Promenade 1700 square feet Call Charles (310)995-5136 SM PRIVATE office on 7th St near Wilshire includes Internet, electricity, cleaning services $450/mo (310)656-9922 www.santamonica.weebly.com

Real Estate TENNESSEE MOUNTAINS 1+ to 2 acre homesites. Wooded Bluff and Lake View. Starting at $59,900.

Guaranteed Financing!

866-550-5263.

Ask about Mini Vacation: 3 days, 2 nights & Travel Allowance.

www.hypnotherapylosangeles.com

Gen. Contracting

Legal Services

A/C CONSTRUCTION

Considering Filing for Bankruptcy?

General Construction Commercial & Residential

Remodel & Add ons Honest. Reliable.

FREE ESTIMATES

• Free phone consultation • Speak to your local Santa Monica Attorney • Get the facts now

— Sabbath Observed—

A PROFESSIONAL LEGAL CORPORATION

1020 Wilshire Blvd. Santa Monica

3 BR 2 BA $450/mo!

Buy Foreclosure! Stop Renting!

(5% Down 20 Years @ 8.5% APR) For Listings 800-272-9416 3 HOUSES for rent close to Santa Monica College. 3BD/1BA $2,800, 1BD/1BA $1,700, 3BD/1BA $2,900. Ready to move in. Parking no problem. New Paint and appliances. Call (714)450-0224

(310)) 235-2883

“Your Local Santa Monica Attorney”

WLA 1457 Westgate #E 1+1 stove, fridge, blinds, tile & carpet, garage parking no pets $1295/mo (310) 578-7512 jkwproperties.com WLA, UNOBSTRUCTED OCEAN VIEW. 2+2, hilltop upper front. Priv drvwy, large sundeck, cat ok. Newly redeco, $2150.00. 310-390-4610.

Certified Hypnotherapist

Houses for Sale

310.278.5380 Lic# 804884 Fully Insured

www.lawgross.com

Handyman

Financial

The Handy Hatts Painting and Decorating Co.

3BR 2BA Only $43,500!

Buy Foreclosure!

Call for Listings 800-279-1604

Vehicles for sale 2002 Honda Accord Only $1,600!

Buy Police Impounds!

Many Makes Available!

For Listings 800-671-1134 $500! Police Impounds!

Hondas / Chevys / Jeeps & More!

Cars from $500!

For Listings 800-773-2204 2004 HONDA Accord EX-L, 45k mi. Grey with dark grey leather interior. Power everything, XM, moonroof, heated seats, 4 cylinder, super clean, 5 spoke factory alloy wheels. new Yakima surf racks.

Great gas mileage, SULEV. Perfect mechanical shape. $13,750. Call 310-922-4060

Bookkeeping Services QUICKBOOKS BOOKKEEPING service, personal or businesses. Online version available. Call 310 977-7935

Services ◊ Tilecraft ◊ Grout cleaning & repair complete shower pan repair complete bathroom remodels Gerry (310)338-0475 ◊ Lic 713459 ◊ TRAINED PROFESSIONAL SINGER Will sing at all parties, churches, women’s clubs, and all occasions.Jolson, Sinatra, Tony Bennett, popular songs, and will have a sing along. Lots of fun. Call Gabe 310-392-6501 SIGN UP TO GET FREE AMBER ALERTS ON YOUR CELL PHONE. wirelessamberalerts.org

2001 Wilshire Blvd Santa Monica CA 310 453 8320

SINCE 1967 RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL SPECIALISTS IN ALL DAMAGE REPAIR “EXPERT IN GREEN CONCEPTS” Free estimates, great referrals

FULL SERVICE HANDYMAN FROM A TO Z Call Brian @ (310) 927-5120 (310) 915-7907 LIC# 888736 “HOME SWEET HOME”

Martin’s Professional Services Quality European Workman All Manors of Home Repairs From painting to electrical

$$$ GET LAWSUIT CASH NOW- Oasis Legal Finance #1. See us on TV Fastest Cash Advances on injury cases-within 24/hrs. Owe nothing if you lose your case APPLY FREE CALL NOW 1-866-353-9959 DEBT SOLUTIONS! Debt Settlement 50% - 80% off. Bill Consolidation, Mortgage Reduction, Loans, 98% Approval Rate.

Good/Bad Credit 1-866-608-BILL (2455) www.paylesssolutions.com LAWSUIT LOANS? Cash before your case settles. Auto, workers comp. All cases accepted. Fast approval. $500 to $50,000.

866-709-1100. www.glofin.com

Massage EXQUISITE, INTUITIVE, strong and tender relaxing body work by mature European.

Very Professional, Sonja (310) 397-0433.

Personals WE HANG CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

(310) 289-3222 Photography

LADIES INTERNET DATING PICTURES male photographer will take quality pictures for your profile indoors or out SM residence affordable rates Lawrence (310)266-5416

DBAS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAMES STATEMENT FILE NO. 20081959697 FIRST FILING. The following person(s) is (are) doing business as AXIA IT CONSULTING, 1450 MIDVALE AVE, #109, LOS ANGELES, CA 90024, COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES. The full name of registrant(s) is/are : SOL EUN, 1450 MIDVALE AVE, #109, LOS ANGELES, CA 90024 This Business is being conducted by, an individual. Signed: Registrant has not yet begun to transact business under the fictitious name or names listed herein.. /s/: SOL EUN This statement was filed with the County Clerk of LOS ANGELES County on 11/5/2008. NOTICE: THIS FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT EXPIRES FIVE YEARS FROM THE DATE IT WAS FILED IN THE OFFICE OF THE COUNTY CLERK. A NEW FICTITIOUS BUSINESS NAME STATEMENT MUST BE FILED PRIOR TO THAT DATE. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name statement in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411et seq.,Business and Professions Code). SANTA MONICA DAILY PRESS to publish 12/4/2008, 12/11/2008, 12/18/2008, 12/25/2008

Your ad could run here!

A child is calling for help.

Call us today at (310) 458-7737

HOURS MONDAY - FRIDAY 9:00am - 5:00pm

LOCATION 410 Broadway, Suite B, Santa Monica, CA 90401

24

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2008

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