Gold Line Noise Fix
by Paul Thomas
Highland Park residents suffering from train-related noise, near the Gold Line route, may have some relief in the near future. Over $500,000 has been budgeted, by the Gold Line Construction Authority, to reduce unwanted noise near stations and intersections.
Some affected locals are calling it a victory of sorts. Others are saying it's too little, too late.
In a letter to the board of directors, chairman Habib Baliam recommended that they accept the Authority's proposal to install sound-proofed windows in houses along the Gold Line route where noise "exceed(s) the Gold Line environmental noise criteria."
This agenda item was approved by the Authority Board on December 8, 2004, with one abstention (Dave Margrave). Wait. Could that be the same Dave Margrave from Morrow & Holman Plumbing?
The ones with the rude receptionist, the astronomical prices, and the plumbers whose solution to any minor problem with your pipes requires major funding and involves the old "have to run a video through the lines to locate the problem" routine? I don't want to think about it.
The Authority has specifically identified three of the noisiest locations in Highland Park. They are French Avenue, Avenue 43 and the Marmion Corridor. They will be consulting with Council District 1 to identify eligible residences. They are also currently developing specifications for the new sound-proofed windows.
Additionally, the Authority is designing a 250 foot sound wall extension to be installed near Avenue 43. Ostensibly, it will begin where the existing wall ends.
Alternatives are being looked into, such as bell modifications and alternative warning bells. To quote from the Construction Authority agenda:
"Measurements of Gold Line Noise levels were taken at several locations in the City of Los Angeles, including near single family and multi-family residences along Marmion Way. Noise levels were generally two to four decibels above Gold Line environmental criteria at most single family residences.
In part, the noise levels exceed the criteria because the "quacker" is being sounded in advance of each crossing. Initially, the MTA committed to not sounding the quacker along this corridor since the speed was so low ( 20 MPH).
The MTA is not required by the CPUC to sound the "quacker" at traffic controlled grade crossings like those along Marmion Way. MTA is concerned with liability issues if they were to stop sounding the "quacker" since this has been their operational procedure since opening.
Another source of noise is from the vehicle propulsion system when power is applied. Although it may not be possible to reduce propulsion noise, MTA may further investigate the exact source of this noise and ways to minimize the noise levels. If these two noise sources were addressed it may eliminate the need for window replacements."
There are those residents who feel that all this amounts to little more than a patch-up solution, and that it only underscores that the MTA was aware of the noise problem in the first place.
They are being offered relief from the clamor only by staying inside with the windows closed. A few area residents would also like some peace and quiet while they tend their gardens or water their lawns.
They'd like to enjoy a glass of lemonade on their front porch swings without ding-ding-ding-ding-ding-ding-ding-ding. Clank! Clank! Clank! Bzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz! Bzzzzzzzzzzz!
Why, the Nerve! How dare these lowly Northeast Angelenos demand to live with a modicum of peace and quiet on their own properties.
All sarcasm aside, area locals are glad to have any solution after suffering the tumult of the trains entering their lives a few years back. Something some long-time residents never thought they would see happen.
Yes, the area has seen some big changes in the 21st century. Some for the better, some for the worse, some too soon to tell.
My prediction (laugh if ye will): noise will soon become one of the primary problems for all of Northeast L.A. to contend with.

What Are They Building Near Vons?

The intersection of Colorado and Figueroa showing the Von’s Market and the recently acquired land along La Loma.

By Tom Topping
Almost everyone has been asking me, "What are they building near Von's?" The short answer is; nothing right now, but plans are in the making. Rumored to be built is a gas station and coffee shop, but any plans for that may have been scuttled by by community activists hoping for something better.
What will be news to many in the community is that Von's is now the owner of that strip of land along La Loma Street, the subject of all the inquiries. They purchased the land a couple of years ago and have recently torn it all down. The property in question is the old Helms Bakery building, the apartments next door and the motel that was last used for offices. The lot extends from the corner of La Loma and North Figueroa all the way down to the Jordinelli Real Estate, across from the intersection of Colorado, La Loma and Monte Bonito.
Last month, a meeting that apparently was to show what would be built at that site, turned out to be an organizing assembly for the purpose of persuading Von's to build what the community would want there. Jim Favarro of Civic Enterprise Associates led the meeting.
It's not so simple to even figure out what a community would want at a site like this, let alone trying to tell Von's what to do with it. The bottom line is money. Whatever can be done that will bring Vons a return on their investment, and satisfy the community needs, might be possible.
Favarro explained about the motivations of Vons. Money is not the only object. Also important to Von's is visibility. By purchasing the La Loma frontage, they have tremendously increased their visibility. Whatever the community asks for would have to include Von's making money and being more visible to drivers and passersby.
Working within those constraints, the goal would be to respect economic realities, while encouraging desired development. The session then broke into 4 groups, for "breakout discussions," to determine what types of businesses are desired at that site.
The "breakout sessions" turned into complaining sessions in a hurry. "We need variety!" "It's the worst meat in the world!" "If Von's closed we wouldn't miss it!" This was followed by more complaints about the strike, its aftermath, and calls for more trees.
Favarro already had some ideas in mind. Presenting a slide of the Von's site, where he added four buildings, all in a kind of courtyard configuration, he explained how it could make this into a place that people would want to come to. They could be made into nice restaurants, or shops, that would make this spot a real destination.
Favarro then illustrated some really ambitious plans that probably would never be built, but did show what could be done there in the blocks around Colorado Blvd and North Figueroa.
Personally, I felt the whole meeting was a setup to impress Von's representatives. While the four groups went into "breakout" sessions, we were given the instruction to elect a spokesman who would relate what the others had said during those sessions. That would have been fine, but I got suspicious when our spokes man was preselected. Additionally, what the spokesman from our group said had no relation to what the group had said. I suspect the speakers were all arranged ahead of time.
Construction will not start anytime soon. Suffice to say that no plans have been settled on yet. A lengthy "entitlement" process will put everything off till eighteen months at the soonest.

TERA President in the News
In an article last month in the Daily Breeze, a local newspaper in Torrance, Hillary Norton Orozco was mentioned for putting on a fundraiser for former 14th District Councilman Nick Pacheco.
She was criticized because the funds to hold the event were part of the disputed DWP public relations funding, that the DWP was billed for by her employer, Fleishman-Hillard.
A letter from her boss stated that she had not been connected to the billing was posted on the NELAlist, a local computer message board.

Father & Son Team Tackle Indoor Air Polution
by John and Stephen Culver
We provide state-of-the-art air and water purification for homes and businesses. The primary air purification technology we use is so advanced that even the Pentagon used it after 9-11 and the Red Cross used it after the California wildfires.
More and more people are "getting their homes in order". By improving the indoor environment, many have testified to improved health, and by taking advantage of the entrepreneurial opportunities offered by our company, have added significantly to the family income.
Visit our web sites: www.freshairliving.com/johnculver www.maximumsuccess.com/johnculver. The passcode for both sites is: guest
Take the VIP tour. Listen, watch, and read. The mp3 file will show our products and how we conduct our business. Or call us: (323) 445-5508 to enjoy a free field test that will be fun.
Also, look for us around town, especially at the Friday Eagle Rock farmers' market. Veteran Dahlia Heights teacher, Marlene Griffith, reports that after using our machine, "Even my son’s room smells better!.
Discover how to make even your smelliest sneakers, or an old car, smell brand new. If you would like to join us in our enterprise, we have some excellent positions you can fill. If you call immediately, you'll discover what you need to do to receive a check for $50 from us. In the meantime, see our ad on page 10. Until we hear from you,
Very truly yours,
John & Steve Culver

TROMPERLAND
by Richard Miazga
Happy New Year everyone! Well, here we go, another year of adventures about the Trompers of Eagle Rock Hot Rod club. For any new readers we have, this column recaps the latest chapter in the continuing legacy of our great hot rod club that began way back in 1945. Therefore, 2005 is very significant! 2005 represents our 60th Anniversary year! The Trompers are making plans to celebrate this event in a big way. This month we are going to tell you about other clubs that were here in Eagle Rock years ago, one older than the Trompers, others that started right after, and so on. We have determined that the "Motators" of Eagle Rock starting in 1939, represents the oldest club. This club was founded by a bunch of Eagle Rock High School chums who liked fast cars, especially roadsters. Straight line, high speed, dry lake racing was their goal. In 1939 there wasn't any "speed" equipment you could buy, so these early hot rodders, the real pioneers of our sport had to make their own. To have a roadster that would exceed 100 mph at Muroc dry lake was impressive, considering the technology that was available, or lack of! The Motators had approx 14 members, and everything was fine until December 1941, the United States entered the war, and every member of the Motators was inducted, and all went to serve their country in one way or another. When a lot of guys went off to war they put their roadsters and coupes up on blocks in the back yard, or stuffed them away in garages. When the war ended the sport of hotrodding took off, and overnite there were clubs starting up all over the LA area, the Trompers began in September 1945. To show club affiliation, all these clubs had car plaques. At this time we'd like to tell you about a great web site, http://www.relicsandrods.com , this site has tons of car plaques for your viewing pleasure. The clubs we'll be talking about have plaques shown on this site in addition to literally thousands more from all over the United States. Having a car plaque to hang off the back of your hot rod, was, and still is, a proud symbol of club solidarity. The Trompers plaque, which we are very partial to, was designed by our founder John Gunderson. Lil Abner was a popular cartoon character back in 45, so John 'borrowed' his boot, and had it trompin' down on what is called a spoon throttle, which is the gas pedal that was used in a 1933 Ford.
In 1947, two other clubs began here in Eagle Rock. The "Lopers", and a club called the "Shafts". Both of these clubs had small memberships, but, were very active at the dry lakes. We include a rearview picture of Keith Karnes 1932 Ford coupe, showing the Shafts plaque, Keith is the owner of the "Angel Puss Rescue" here in Eagle Rock, and was a member of the Shafts back in 47. In 1949, with hot rodding getting very popular a club called the "Nite Owls" began here in Eagle Rock. This club embraced motorcycles and cars as part of their membership. Around the same time two other clubs began, the "Nite Hawks" and the "Head Hunters". These clubs had members with custom cars, and with more and more car shows being presented around LA, the members cars took on more slick appearances, fancy paint, upholstery, lowered, and louvered. In 1951, a group of Eagle Rock High School students started the "Los Diabolos" car club. They embraced all cars, hot rods, and custom. This club ran from 1951 to 1956. In 1954, The "Ramblers" car club was started here in Eagle Rock. Once again, Keith Karnes (talked about earlier) was a member of this club, in fact he was the Secretary/Treasurer. The "Ramblers" were a bunch of Eagle Rock guys who liked cars and hung out together, which is the story about all the clubs mentioned. Around 1950 and on, hotrodding was working very hard to clean up it's image. The words "hot rod" for a lot of people represented someone with a DA haircut, t-shirt with a pack of cigarettes rolled up in one sleeve, Levis and heavy boots, and no sense of manners, especially when whipping along on the road in their -hot rods! Car clubs forming up in this era took great effort to help clean up the bad image. Without a doubt the best club doing just that was a club formed in 1955 here in Eagle Rock called the "Monarchs". The Eagle Rock Historical Society has photo albums showing lots of photos about this hard working, civic minded, custom car club that represented our beautiful Eagle Rock. They had some great looking cars, 57 Chevys, Corvettes, all show quality cars. They put on 'safety checks" inviting the public to have their car inspected for safety problems like bad brakes, lights, tires. They had colorful uniforms, and represented Eagle Rock proudly. The "Monarchs" received a number of awards from the Mayor of LA for a "job well done"! Well, that's about it for all the clubs that represented Eagle Rock. Are there more? Perhaps, and we encourage anyone having information and especially pictures to contact us through the paper. Till next month, "Let the Fun Begin" rm

Eagle Rock AP Scholars
Forty-one students at Eagle Rock High School have earned the designation of AP Scholar in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level Advanced Placement Program Exams. Audrey Tan (currently a senior) qualified for the National AP Scholar Award by earning an average grade of 4 or higher on all AP Exams taken and grades of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams!
Five students qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average of at least 3.5 on all APs and grades of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. These students are: Michael Ferrara (Caltech), Caitlin Gallogly (Lawrence University), Lawrence Lipana (UCLA), Keely Myres (University of Liverpool), and Audrey Tan (current senior).
Five students also qualified for the Scholar with Honor award by earning an average grade of at least 3.25 on all APs taken and grades of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams. These students are: Joseph Banatlao (CSULA), Andres Gallegos (Pomona College), Randy Gonzales (current senior), Elvis Ibarra (UC Berkeley), and Pedro Ramirez (CSU Northridge).
Thirty-one students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Exams with grades of 3 or higher. The AP Scholars are: Nayeli Anguiano (current senior), Noel Banuelos (current senior), Claudiu Benga (UCLA), Irene Bobadilla (CSUN), Lucia Bustos (Occidental College), Stephen Chou (UC Riverside), Roberto Coto (University of the Pacific), Vanessa Escobar (current senior), John Estioko (PCC), Juan Estrada (University of La Verne), Priscilla Fernandez (UCSD), Maria Guandique (current senior), Skyler Hackley (University of Richmond, VA), Sara Hildebrandt (current senior), Rochelle Hom (UCLA), Elizabeth Lopez (current senior), Andrew Lum (UC Irvine), David Manciati (current junior), Ryan Mayer (Brigham Young Univesity), Dayan Molina (current senior), Sarah Molina (Occidental College), Silvia Muy (current senior), Jaison Omoto (Cal Poly Pomona), Deborah Padilla (CSU Fullerton), Elena Perez (current senior), Susanna Ross (CSU Los Angeles), Kristine Stanton (UC Irvine), Jacob Stevens (Occidental College), Jose Tengco (UC San Diego), Jennifer Wong (UC San Diego), and Jose Zelaya (current
senior)
A big congratulations to all our students both current and grads for
this accomplishment!

HP Beautiful Essay Contest
A total of 50 Elementary, Middle, and High School students submitted essays, the purpose of which was to encourage youth to consider the importance of getting involved in enhancing their Highland Park community. We chose nine winners, two in high school, three in Middle School, and four in Elementary school.
The essay from which I will draw the quote is written by a Middle School Student, a 6th Grader, from Luther Burbank Middle School. Her name is Sofia Garcia. She will win the 1st place prize for Middle School this coming Wednesday. (See attached.)
Highland Park "can be [beautiful] if we just don't litter, do drugs around children, and if we take the time to volunteer in our community. And we should think about what is important, what we need to do, and just be wonderful people like my parents.
"As a resident of the community, there's one thing that makes me upset: 'Graffiti.' It makes the community look ugly, plus people die because of graffiti. Taggers, or gangs, kill each other. My dad has taught me not to write on people's walls or damage people's properties. People work very hard for their properties and when taggers come along, they mess up their properties and make it ugly. People hate having writing on their walls. Always keep in mind be safe and be aware of the people that surround you in school, the park, and even at home.
"Keeping our environment clean should be something natural, that [we] should act on every day of our lives. As a little person with high morals, I intend to follow what my parents always taught me. I intend to comply with my parents' guidance when they say not to be in a gang or do other bad things. Keeping our community safe means it's a better place to live in. I have lived in the community for 12 years and I have seen horrible things, and I want to make a difference by writing my essay. When people help the community, they make it a better place. I hope when people read this essay, they start making the community clean and safe."

Sen. Jack Scott to Head Education Committee
State Senator Jack Scott's (D- Pasadena) role in influencing California's education policy and funding will be greatly increased with his appointment today as Chair of the Senate's Education Committee. Scott has also been tapped to continue his key role as Chair of the Senate's Budget Subcommittee on Education, which oversees California's $57 billion investment in education.
"I am honored and very pleased with this new appointment," stated Senator Scott. "My focus will be on strengthening our public schools and pupil achievement, and protecting access and affordability in our colleges and universities."
"A quality education will always be the greatest gift we can offer our children. That's why I intend to work hard to ensure that our public schools and colleges and universities offer the best educational opportunity for California's students." The Senate Education Committee considers all legislative measures dealing with K-12 education and the state's colleges and universities. It has legislative oversight for a wide range of issues dealing with education: public and charter schools, pupil achievement, teacher quality, financial aid, and higher education access and affordability.
As Chair of the Senate Budget Subcommittee on Education, Scott oversees approximately 48 percent of California's state budget. The committee will conduct hearings on the Governor's 2005-06 budget for K-12 and higher education after it is released by the Administration in January.
The announcement of Scott's appointments came from Senate President pro Tem-elect Don Perata who called Senator Scott "a talented legislator and dedicated educator who will work hard to make sure the kids in the classrooms get what they need to succeed.
California State University President Charles Reed said, "Senator Scott has been a leader in education for decades as a legislator, university faculty member and community college president. As California faces the challenges ahead, there is no one better to ensure that the promise of quality educational opportunity for all is protected today and into the future.
Senator Scott will do a wonderful job as Chair of the Senate Education Committee," stated Jack O'Connell, State Superintendent of Public Instruction. "He has a terrific grasp of the complexities of education policy and finance. Jack Scott puts students first in his decision-making and supports our efforts to hold everyone accountable for their success. I know we will work together well to continue to improve California schools.

Mayor Hahn Appoints Reyes to MTA Board
Mayor James Hahn has appointed Los Angeles City Councilman Ed Reyes to fill a spot left vacant on the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority's Board of Directors by the resignation of LA Councilman Antonio Villaraigosa.
Reyes follows Council members Tom LaBonge and Martin Ludlow as Hahn's appointees to the Board.
"I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as one of the Mayor's appointees to the MTA Board," said Reyes. "Moreover, I look forward to working with my fellow Board members to help create safe, affordable and efficient methods of transportation for many diverse communities of the County of Los Angeles."
Reyes, a native of Los Angeles, grew up in the Lincoln Heights and Cypress Park neighborhoods. He attended UCLA where he earned a Bachelors Degree in English and a Masters Degree in Architecture and Urban Planning.
"I am pleased to welcome Councilmember Reyes to the MTA Board," said Mayor Hahn. "Ed shares my goal of providing efficient, affordable and effective mass transit to the residents of Los Angeles. He understands that no big city can truly offer economic opportunity to its residents without also providing a great public transportation network."
Reyes lives in the Mount Washington neighborhood with his wife, Martha, and children, Natalie, Eddie Jr., Adan and Angel. His appointment to the Board was made on Dec. 3.

Highland Park Curves Celebrates One Year Anniversary
This month, Curves-Highland Park celebrates one year of helping women achieve their fitness goals. The 30-minute fitness facility located on Figueroa at Avenue 43 opened for business on January 19, 2004. So far, the members of this facility have lost 1,079 pounds and 1,678 inches collectively.
"It's been a great year!" exclaims Curves owner, Diane Grigsby. "The opening of Curves in Highland park has proven to be a much-needed and much-appreciated venue. And it's fun to see how a new community of women has formed here. Women of all backgrounds, ages and fitness levels have bonded here. It's a wonderful thing to see day after day."
The Curves workout is a total-body workout that simultaneously tones muscles and increases endurance making for a very efficient and very effective workout. Women are shown how to acquire the habit of exercise, increase metabolism, and lose body fat.
Curves-Highland Park will have a week-long celebration beginning Monday, January 17, 2005. All are invited to attend for a chance to win a free membership.
Curves is the fastest-growing fitness franchise with over 8000 locations worldwide.

Randy and Marli Brown in Concert
Randy and Marli Brown, a husband and wife music team from Michigan will be in concert at New Hope Christian Fellowship on Sunday, January 30 at 10:30 a.m. New Hope is located at 777 Colorado Blvd. in Eagle Rock. Call 626-836-3199 or check www.newhope4all.org for details.
Randy and Marli have toured around the country and made a number of recordings of their Christian contemporary and inspirational music. They may be booked through their website at www.randyandmarli.com. Here's what others have been saying about them:
"We have had the privilege to work with Randy Brown and have been very impressed with not only the talent and quality of his music, but how his heart to serve God and others radiates through his music. Any organization that calls on Randy and his wife, Marli, to minister to them, will find a truly uplifting and God-centered time of ministry and quality music."

Eagle Vista Seniors
The eagle Vista Seniors start their New Year Calendar with their 9 a.m. Business Meeting followed by the members at 10:am on Tuesday January 4. Birthday cake will be served for those born in January. The speaker for this day will be Jennifer Ihreg of Postal Systems who will advise seniors on the various scams they should avoid.
January 11, Tuesday, Alpha Achram, one of our members, will be the soloist entertainer.
January 18, Tuesday, Ninfa Guzman entertains with an art demonstration.
January 25, Tuesday - BINGO
NOTE: The deadline for sign-up and payment for the Palm Springs Follies is January 4, 2005.
 

Dear Editor,
I am writing in regard to a number of proposed budget expenditures that I noted on a recent E.R.N.C. report. Two of the items caught my attention.
The first, and to my mind most inappropriate, is the grant of a few thousand dollars to the privately owned and religiously affiliated organization, Solheim Lutheran Home. My simple understanding of the U.S. Constitution is that it specifically forbids the government to favor or hinder religion or religious organizations. Why should taxpayers pay to enhance an organization with a religious point of view? Doesn't this violate that basic tenet?
If we decide to fund this Lutheran enterprise will we next enhance the Catholic property, church or school? Should the council consider reimbursing the Baptists who put up an interesting and historic mural facing Colorado Boulevard? I was told, by Ms Wethington McLean, that part of the rationale for funding the mural at Solheim was that the public will be able to see part of it. Well I can see the entire mural on the Baptist church and do every morning. Perhaps we should pay for all of that.
I find it interesting that a few weeks after the approval by the neighborhood council of the appropriation the council is meeting in the Solheim home. Was the Eagle Rock City Hall booked? Was there no public building in Eagle Rock available?
Historical value was also mentioned as the rational for funding the seismic retro fitting of the 20th Century Club. I think that's a great looking old building and I'd be happy to work on saving it if it were threatened with destruction but I think, if it is to be the recipient of taxpayer money, it needs to lose it's "private" status. Hearst Castle is a great looking collection of buildings but the State of California didn't pick up the tab for it's maintenance until it was deeded over to the State Parks Department. Are we planning on receiving the property as a public building? Who actually owns it? I was told that the space has been used by public officials. This was given as a reason for the funding. There is a big difference between public buildings and private buildings and occasional use by a politician doesn't change the status of a building.
In summation I'd be real interested in hearing from other taxpayers here in Eagle Rock about the expenditures and I'd state my position as being strongly against public funds being dispersed to private entities, I would suggest that it would seem illegal.
I was told that if the City Attorney didn't object that my objections would be ignored and the funding would proceed, so, if there are other constituents who find these expenditures questionable it might be good to speak up. Be advised that if you'd like to speak to the council it has guidelines, you must fill out a card, before the meeting, this is not casual, you don't just raise your hand and get recognized. In fact the little bit of the meeting I listened to in early December seemed fairly contentious and hard edged. So you might want to write out your thoughts and air them here to see if there is a consensus. Tom might go along with that and I'm sure the council reads the Sentinel.
Pax,
Stephan Early
Eagle Rock, Ca. 90041

Miss Mindy’s Music Reviews
by Mindy Jones
First off, Happy New Year to all of my Northeast readers out there! We made it! Our new year starts off in a fury of crashing cymbals, epic melodies and an all around 60's acid-rock vibe. Onostatic is a relatively new band hailing from the hills of N.E.L.A. During the summer of 2003, Onostatic formed together and began forging a new musical path for themselves.
The band is Alex Painter (formerly of The Peak Show) on bass and vocals, Perry Tee on guitar and Joe Fulginiti on drums. This three-piece "psychedelic rock ensemble for the future" definitely begs to be heard. When listening to this album, you can almost hear the band melting together on the tracks to produce a sound that is fresh and unique, yet as comfortable and familiar as your favorite blanket.
Onostatic wraps itself around you. Guiding you into this amazing musical journey with them. Through the album's stunning highs and lows, there is an underlying central message: " Remember...Love is Forever".
Onostatic's self-titled debut was actually formed as a concept piece. " A testament to all the journeys of modern times, where so many people leave their homes and are cast into the maze of the world to find their way". This was done in the light of a long overdue reunion with Perry Tee's family in Brazil. Tee's Brazilian family came across Perry's name on an Internet site and were finally able to contact and reunite with him. "A tribute to the power of music, family and the light that carries us through dark times". A deeply introspective album with an uplifting message that re-instills hope into the everyday mundane life. An album that is almost magical in its simplicity and intoxicating in its soul.
Onostatic's album is one that would be played by the likes of Hendrix, Morrison, Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin. The band absolutely channels another time and almost another life. Something that slipped through the hourglass of time and sound. A musical time capsule that has been unearthed in 2005. Are you ready for the ride?
Beginning the quest is a hauntingly bewitching song called "Love is Forever". A song for the lost minds and the abandoned spirits. "Love is Forever" is an audible trip down a deserted highway or an old desert road. Fueled by hazy guitar, soulful lyrics and sparkling cymbal rolls. "You'll be born into a sea of strangers, Where they burn memories like fire, So hold onto this song I give you, For your soul to survive, Remember...Love is Forever".
"Ancient Song" (definitely a favorite) is one that really showcases Painter's vocal abilities. Featuring forceful drums, fiery guitar riffs and a seriously addicting bass line. " I'm a soldier on the run, I swear they want my soul, I said no!".
Next on the play list is "Only Friend". In this song, Onostatic transform into psychedelic prophets with a powerful message, an alluring bass opener and Hendrix-style blaring. "Look at the lights...they're shining, Out of the lonely window, Picture yourself there, honey, Down in the city below, You're not much, you are everything, But face it, he is gone, He didn't care, he just didn't care".
"Nickels and Dimes" has a moody, mystical feeling to it. An ascending build-up gives way to a radiant break-down. A spiraling song that's like falling down a rabbit hole into Alice's Wonderland. "I'm drinking the sun, It's quenching the silent side of me, Alone I am one, Floating above this concrete city".
The album comes to a peak with "Revolutions". Onostatic definitely impresses with this funky, kaleidoscopic masterpiece. The way they composed and play this song is magnificent. You can really feel the passion and intensity behind the instruments, not just the flawless timing and perfectly hit notes. They mix up the mode and end the song with a crazy scratch session and sped up tempo.
Onostatic's debut album is a vivid pilgrimage through another time and another world. A dazzling array of spectacular musicians who have followed their minds and hearts to this new level of musical consciousness.
The ongoing saga of Onostatic and their musical explorations can be continued at www.futurestreetrecords.com (where you can also purchase the album). Please support your local music scene, go online and check out the band. Onostatic is definitely an exceptional trip!

Colombo's Makes Blue Mondays Smile
by Jesse F. Sears
Since 1954, Colombo's Italian Steakhouse has been a favorite of the Los Angeles community for its elegant but friendly atmosphere, amazing food and serious live music. In the Eagle Rock location for the last 30 years, Colombo's is a great place to bring a date, your parents, your insatiable appetite for fine Italian food, and on Monday nights, your blues.
That's because for the last 2 1/2 years, the talented and versatile Erik Ekstrand Trio has hosted a come-one-come-all jazz jam session known to attract some very fine musicians from all over Los Angeles.
The stage is set from the time you walk in the door; with smoked glass, fine art on the walls, and thick, comfortable red leather booths, it looks like something straight out of a Frank Sinatra movie.
The menu consists of a wide selection of pasta dishes, excellent pizza, and Colombo's famous steaks, all traditional East Italian recipes using quality ingredients. While they are known for their steaks, manager Vic Parrino recommends the lasagna, saying it was his uncle Sam's favorite.
The mood is jovial and inclusive, with people of all ages and colors talking and laughing with one another. It is the kind of place where you can sit down at one of those long center tables and have dinner with people you don't even know, sure to become friends by the end of the night.
"Colombo's is the melting pot of the community," Parrino says. Now running the restaurant, he took over business from his uncle, founder Sam Colombo, and evidently loves what he does.
"Anyone with talent" is welcome to come sit in with the group, Parrino says, and on a typical Monday night, the place is packed.
The house band consists of Erik Ekstrand on piano and vocals, Leslie Baker on upright bass, and Frank Wilson on drums.
As people filter in, the trio plays a few vocal numbers. They are tight and expressive, with lots of improvised interaction between Wilson and Baker.
"What keeps me coming back? You can't keep me away! To come out and play some music, have some fun, I'm there," Baker says.
Around 9 o'clock men in pressed silk shirts with horns of all shapes and sizes begin to pour in, and things really start to cook. The music ranges from blues and standards to some truly awe inspiring bebop tunes, giving the best performers their chance to shine.
With all the talent in the room, one might think egos would start to fly. But unlike some jam sessions, which can be cutthroat, at Colombo's there is a spirit of friendship and encouragement that allows greener players to feel comfortable and learn from those around them.
"At a jam session like this, everyone has their own individuality, something they can do that you can pick up on," says the lyrical and inventive local trumpeter Kelvin Little.
"I like the reception (at Colombo's). We can compliment one another's playing, enjoy one another's company," Little says.
And that's what its all about.

Colombo's Italian Steakhouse
Full Bar/ Dinners $8-$24
1833 Colorado Blvd, Eagle Rock
(323) 254-9138

Optimist Foster Family Orientation
Optimist Foster Family & Adoption Services welcomes prospective foster parents to an orientation Saturday, January 22 (9 a.m. – 12 p.m.) at its main campus in the Highland Park area of Los Angeles (7003 N. Figueroa St., 2nd floor).
The meeting provides an overview of the process and requirements of becoming a foster parent and the need for safe, nurturing environments. The agency formally trains participants through a series of subsequent classes and offers childcare services to parents during the meetings. Once certified, Optimist provides follow-up services and resources to foster parents, who will receive financial support for the child's food, clothing, medical care and other needs.
Optimist Foster Family & Adoption Services, a division of Highland Park-based Optimist Youth Homes & Family Services, addresses the increased need for quality foster homes for abused, abandoned and neglected children, and has placed more than 5,000 children in loving and caring foster homes throughout Los Angeles County since 1993.
For additional information and to enroll in the orientation and classes, please call (800) 454-5561 and ask for a foster care coordinator or email certification@oyhfs.org.

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HI Tom,
I'd like to explain a bit about the problem I am having with the ERNC. For some time there has been no Secretary. The present Secretary has only been doing the job for a short while, and I must say with little or no help from other Board members. She has had to, almost on bended knee, beg for minutes of previous meetings. Not to mention other information needed to do her job correctly. The Secretary should bring to each meeting various forms to place on the front table for the stakeholders; sign in sheet (used to build a data base for elections etc., to see how many attend), speaker cards (stakeholders are no allowed to speak unless they fill one out), minutes that are to be approved form last meeting (they are sometimes tabled for several months), also information to be discussed (committee chairs often pass those out only to the board and the stakeholders never get to read the valuable information), plus other flyers, charts, and diagrams.
By the stakeholders not having these papers in their hands, they often are not able to make an informed view on the subject matters that are being discussed by the Board. Therefore their opinions are not heard, the stakeholder may as well not be there. Which I feel the Board would like, as there is little outreach by the Board itself.
For sometime the ERNC has not had a full Board, very few members have actually left because of family problems. Most of the past Board members have left because of differences with other Board members. We regular attendees all know this, as we hear it all. Most of the problems are the fact that one Board member just takes over everything, and takes credit for things that others have started.
The Board has gotten down to where there is a problem with it being able to conduct business properly. But instead of getting these Board seats filled, the Board wishes to reduce the number seats necessary for a quorum. The by-laws supports this as it is now written.
This means that where the $50,000, that is allocated to each Neighborhood Council, goes, and to which of the 8 Sub-Districts in Eagle Rock gets to share this money, is decided by only 9 (and getting smaller) Board members. There are 30,000 people in Eagle Rock, however there about only 1000 who took part in the last election. UNFAIR!
That is what the squabble was about. Please come to a meeting, we stakeholders need more representation. That money belongs to 30,000 people not 9. No taxation without representation. Come to a meeting and bring a tea bag.
Thank you for letting me get this off my chest.
Herb Larrimore

Skate Park Feedback
I was very perturbed after reading your article "Skatepark in Limbo." I have been a skateboarder for the past 15 years and I have lived in Highland Park on Ave 61 for the last year. Many of my friends are professional skate boarder's and/or have been deeply involved with building quite a few of the new cement parks in Southern California.
It is difficult for me to even know where to begin. First of all, $700,000 is quite a bit of money to build a skate park, which makes it hard for me to believe that more money is needed for the park. Monrovia and Duarte's skate parks were both built for under $500,000 each. Second, any money used will be a waste if the park is not designed properly. I have personally seen what happens to poorly built parks, parks built by someone who has no experience building a skate park. No one will skate it. It becomes an isolated ghost town with the occasional visitor, and the city feels left with regrets. The sight at a well built park is just the opposite. People feel good about it and there are even less problems because people care about something they like and enjoy. A poorly built skate park can also become a safety hazard. People who don't skate don't understand the angles involved. They don't realize how crucial it is to set the coping right. The concrete has to be poured perfect and the right coating has to be used. Would you ask a film maker to build you a guitar? Would you have your electrician do all of your plumbing?
My friend, Benjamin Schroeder, a professional skateboarder, has had a major hand in designing and building Monrovia's, Duarte's, and Glendale's skate parks under a firm named Lawerence R. Moss and Associates. (I believe he has also designed a number of parks out of state.) Duarte and Glendale have two of the best skate parks in Southern California.
There are also a number of other skateboarder owned park design and building companies who do a much better job for less than a regular contractor.
I don't know if the skate council has even talked to a real skater who has had experience with constructing parks. Not all skate boarders are derelicts. Many are intelligent, kind, and hold professional careers. Most of all they are competent and passionate when it comes to skating and building skate parks.
Right now it sounds as if the people making the decisions for this park are not even trying or they are out-sourceing the work to friends. Incompetent contractors are stealing money from cities all over California and building poor quality and even dangerous parks for an exuberant amount of money. THIS IS BECOMING AN EPIDEMIC!!
There is no point in pursuing a community project if the community is not involved. Skaters are an important part of that community ESPECIALLY if that community is building a SKATE PARK!
Paul, what can I do? I will gladly assist the community in any way possible. I will give them some direction to the right path. I Will do anything to make sure this park is built RIGHT, ensuring the happiness and satisfaction of the surrounding neighborhoods. Please inform me of any upcoming meetings or of people I must contact. As you can tell, I am very concerned. I have seen too many parks built the wrong way and a lot of money wasted. This skate park is obviously what the community wants and the community wants it done right!!!
I look forward to hearing from you and thank you for your time and consideration. I also praise you for this article. For without it I would have never known.
Sincerely,
Gavin Blackstock
343 Ave 61

Highland Park Happenings
by Paul Thomas
Happy New Year to everyone and Feliz Ano Nuevo a todos! Talk about weird Winter weather! Through December we've experienced bitter chills, especially on some nights. It really started to feel like Winter around here for a while. Then about midway through the month we slipped into these picture-perfect sunny days. Call it a mini Summer-in-December heat wave of sorts.
Christmas week we hit 80 degrees. Then just to mix things up a bit more, how about a few gusty winds? It all happened here, in Highland Park. Besides the weather, beginning in December, the holiday season came into full swing. Figueroa was lined with seasonal lights.
In Hermon, on the Monterey Road meridian strip (between Via Marisol and Avenue 60), the giant Deodar Cedar tree was trimmed with lights. This neighborhood tradition lit up the night sky and put spectators in the holiday spirit. Hermon Church held a countdown to the tree lighting.
Attendees were treated to a concert by the Bushnell Way Elementary school Orchestra. Snacks were also provided for this illuminating (pun intended) event.
On December 5th the big Northeast Los Angeles Christmas Parade came to town. It was raining that day. I thought it might be canceled or postponed as the day became darker and the rain got heavier. I was wrong. I also thought I could walk over there to check it out without getting totally drenched. I was wrong.
No, the parade not only went on as scheduled, it brought out crowds with a mad vengeance. Wow! Everyone was seemingly prepared for the weather. Spectators gathered under tents and umbrellas to shelter themselves. As it began to pour, I dashed around to search for the Boulevard Sentinel tent.
Surely we had one around here somewhere. My notes were getting water damage. Sadly, there was no tent, but I caught the tail end of a vehicle carrying local councilmen. They waved and preened for the crowds, then disappeared into the dark mists ahead.
From there, marched a myriad of other groups, schools, and organizations. Wilson High School and Luther Burbank Middle School brought their marching bands, pep squads, cheerleaders. You name it. Wet weather was no obstacle. The kids wore clear raincoats that protected, yet showed off their uniforms. Sheet music for musicians was encased in plastic and attached to their instruments as they marched along. These guys thought of everything.
The Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Council (who recently held their elections) drifted by on their official float. Other individual ASNC members cruised through in their own vehicles. John Acosta drove down the boulevard in his sharp little roadster. Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council President Manny Hernandez cruised through in his SUV, smiling beatifically at spectators, looking almost Santa-like.
The Highland Park Police Historical Society brought out a few different types of squad cars (vintage and otherwise) to patrol their way down the parade route.
A group called the Highland Park Rhythm Project attracted everyone's attention. They marched along beating a profusion of percussive instruments, creating a cacophony of sound down Figueroa.
The Southland Community Church risked electrocution, as they carried an electric rock band through the rain. The group carried on praising and singing happily anyway, seemingly unharmed.
It was about this point that I noticed I was very, very wet. Drenched, in fact. Realizing this gig was not worth risking pneumonia for, I headed quickly home. The parade, however, kept on going.
Saturday the 11th rolled around, and it was time for the HP Walking Tour. This "docent-led tour" (read: guided) commenced at 1 p.m. Folks strolled through the Sycamore Terrace area of Highland Park for a look at the Craftsman homes that have been built there. The tour also included a trip to the Southwest Museum's Casa de Adobe.
The Casa de Adobe, which sits just below the Southwest Museum on Figueroa, was completed in 1918 by the Hispanic Society of California. It was then donated to the museum in 1925. Patterned in a pre– 1850s Spanish California rancho style, the Casa was designed by the office of architect Theodore Eisen and constructed in the traditional manner by local adobe craftsmen. It consists of a series of rooms surrounding a central patio. The Casa's holdings include furniture, paintings, decorative arts, tin work, and religious folk art.
Speaking of art, The Avenue 50 Studio held a Holiday Art Sale & Fundraiser on the 18th. There were all manner of curios, jewelry, and paintings there to wade through for those last minute holiday gifts.
The next day, El Sereno had their holiday celebration at the El Sereno Park & Recreation Center on Klamath Street. Kids got to receive free photos with Santa Claus, thanks to their local Chamber of Commerce. I was able to snag an exclusive interview with Old Santa himself on Christmas Eve, just before he made the rounds of Northeast Los Angeles. Credit it to luck and good timing.
"Santa," I asked. "Have the boys and girls in the Highland Park area been good this year?" "Oh, goodness, yes," he smiled, "but those land developers... and some of those city councilmen... well.."
"Lumps of coal for them, Santa?"
He nodded. "Don't even know if I'll have enough for all of them. Ho Ho Ho!"
Before I could question further he was off in the sled. While the kids were snug in their beds, presents were being delivered through chimneys (and some barred windows) with care.
It was a delightfully quiet and peaceful Christmas holiday in Highland Park. A welcome break from street repairs, condominium construction, and commuter traffic.

Skatepark Accepting Donations
by Paul Thomas
A hot topic in recent months has been The Garvanza Skate Park in Highland Park, or rather, lack thereof. Frustrated residents, neighborhood council members, and skaters alike are still waiting for a park to begin construction, when it was expected to be up and running already, months ago.
The Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council formed an offshoot Ad-Hoc Skatepark Committee and Skatepark Accepting Donations
by Paul Thomas
A hot topic in recent months has been The Garvanza Skate Park in Highland Park, or rather, lack thereof. Frustrated residents, neighborhood council members, and skaters alike are still waiting for a park to begin construction, when it was expected to be up and running already, months ago.
The Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council formed an offshoot Ad-Hoc Skatepark Committee and
(See SKATE PARK p.7)
Skatepark continued
coalition to involve itself in and monitor progress of the project. Heinrich Kiefer (inadvertently misidentified last issue) stepped in as president of the new committee.
At their last meeting, which included Council District 14's Lisa Sarno, Monica Garcia, and engineer Roger Gutierrez, tensions arose. Neighbors were, and still are, concerned about lack of funds, and the possibility of funds being diverted from the actual skating area.
A number of suggestions for fundraising and donations were suggested by the committee at at that time. None were committed to.
Things have changed. The Department of Recreation and Parks announced in early December that they have established an account for donations to the skate park.
Those interested in doing so should send a check made out to Payee: LA City Department of Recreation and Parks, and specify "Garvanza Park."
With your check, include a cover letter sent to: Jon Kirk Mukri, General Manager, 1200 W. 7th Street, Suite 748
Los Angeles, CA 90017.
In the meantime, Field Representative Monica Garcia has been diligently keeping locals apprised of developments. The Office of Councilmember Villaraigosa has promised to coordinate a skate park design meeting in late January to involve itself in and monitor progress of the project. Heinrich Kiefer (inadvertently misidentified last issue) stepped in as president of the new committee.
At their last meeting, which included Council District 14's Lisa Sarno, Monica Garcia, and engineer Roger Gutierrez, tensions arose. Neighbors were, and still are, concerned about lack of funds, and the possibility of funds being diverted from the actual skating area.
A number of suggestions for fundraising and donations were suggested by the committee at at that time. None were committed to.
Things have changed. The Department of Recreation and Parks announced in early December that they have established an account for donations to the skate park.
Those interested in doing so should send a check made out to Payee: LA City Department of Recreation and Parks, and specify "Garvanza Park."
With your check, include a cover letter sent to: Jon Kirk Mukri, General Manager, 1200 W. 7th Street, Suite 748
Los Angeles, CA 90017.
In the meantime, Field Representative Monica Garcia has been diligently keeping locals apprised of developments. The Office of Councilmember Villaraigosa has promised to coordinate a skate park design meeting in late January.

Tongva: The First Eagle Rockers
Before Tritch Hardware existed, before the Woman's 20th Century Club, before 19th century Chinese immigrants labored in the strawberry fields along Yosemite Blvd., and before the 18th century Spanish claimed this beautiful valley for their king and named the Rock "Pietra Gordo", there were the Tongva people of Eagle Rock valley.
You might have heard that Native Americans once lived near the base of the Rock. You may have even gone exploring yourself around town and found pieces of pottery, basketry, and other evidence of a once viable community. You surely have heard the legend of the Rock:
"One little baby only lay on a skin and gazed upward at the soaring birds in the sky. An eagle swooped, clutched the babe and flew eastward toward the great rock. The Indians in chase, called to the Sun, 'Let him crush himself against the Rock and turn to stone upon it.' 'Twas done. Dropping the infant unhurt below, he dashed against the rock, and the image there is the imprint of his huge body. " - Mrs. C.W. Young
Who were these people that pre-date Eagle Rock's history as a city and who are at the very beginning of our valley's collective history? What do we know about these people? Is it accurate? Can the people of Tongva ancestry still be found? Were there other people living alongside the Tongva?
Barbara Arvi, the Director of Education from the Southwest Museum and the Historical Society's very special guest for our January 18th public meeting, will be guiding us through such questions on a night that is sure to be extremely interesting, informative, and possibly demystifying!
FREE and open to the public, this is your opportunity to learn about Eagle Rock's early inhabitants with other interested members in the Historical Society, neighbors, friends, and fellow Eagle Rockers! Please join us and support the History Society's efforts to bring meaningful discussions to the community that is free and fun for everyone!
Come and ask Barbara Arvi "Who were the Tongva people?" at our quarterly public meeting on Tuesday, January 18th at 7:30pm at the Center for the Arts,Eagle Rock 2225 Colorado Blvd - the home of the Historical Society's Archives!!
Looking forward to seeing you there!

Grand Opening- Hahn Headquarters
Los Angeles -- Mayor Jim Hahn today celebrated the grand opening of his campaign headquarters with the help of Councilman Tom LaBonge and hundreds of supporters from across the city.
"Los Angeles has turned the corner -- violent crime is down 18 percent and housing production has doubled since I took office, and I want to continue that momentum," Mayor Hahn said. "We can only make Los Angeles a better place with the help of the people of Los Angeles. Together, we will win in 2005, and together we will make sure Los Angeles stays on track."
"Jim Hahn is the person who has turned Los Angeles around," Councilman LaBonge said. "There was a time, just a few years ago, when the Police Department was not headed in the right direction. But Jim Hahn made a tough decision to bring in new leadership and turned it around. A safer city means better business for us all."
Among Mayor Hahn's supporters are a broad spectrum of Los Angeles residents; U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein; Councilmembers Garcetti, Hahn, LaBonge, Miscikowski, Perry, Reyes and Smith; and a growing number of labor organizations including the Service Employees International Union locals in Los Angeles, the Southern California District Council of Laborers, AFSCME District Council 36, Teamsters Joint Council 42, United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 770, Southwest Regional Council of Carpenters, Ironworkers Local 433, the United Firefighters of Los Angeles City, Communication Workers of American Southern California Council, and the Southern California Pipe Trades.

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