Hill Slides; Homes in Jeopardy

Houses perched above Colorado Blvd. between Holbrook and Linda Rosa Streets appeared in jeopardy last month, as a seemingly unending winter storm repeatedly pounded the hillside above a live/work loft development under construction in Eagle Rock. The site of the construction, where no construction had been allowed and/or attempted for about fifty years, attracted the attention of all community members when numerous giant columns, clearly visible from the 134 freeway, were built to retain the hillside there.
One of those giant columns now sits at a slight angle, after a huge boulder-like chunk of earth had broken off the hillside and rammed into it as it fell. Fire department officials showed up on the morning of January 27, to check the damage, analyze the situation and decide to do. They cordoned off the slow lane of Colorado Blvd. and contacted the grading chief from Building and Safety to come out and inspect it. They told the residents of a voluntary evacuation, but the residents elected to stay.
At least three areas of the cliff were eroding, with the house on Holbrook Street losing a chunk of its side yard.
After the rain again pounded all night long Sunday, the ridge of the hill was seen on Monday covered with plastic sheeting, and it appeared that more dirt had piled against the columns and retaining barriers that span them, which seemed to be bulging, too.

Eagles Lodge Players Softball Champs

David versus Goliath
By Kevin Grace

The Eagles of Aerie 2188 began the Glendale Men's Fall 2007 Slow-pitch Softball season with modest expectations. Riding high after winning their fourth championship in the prior season, the team was put into a higher bracket. Unfortunately for the Eagles, this bracket included two stellar teams that the Eagles had beaten a combined one time in three plus seasons. Those teams, the Lost Boyz and Acme, are perennial winners and preseason favorites to play each other for the championship in December. Why would anyone think the Fall 2007 campaign be any different? Why indeed.
True to form, the Eagles, behind the consistently stellar pitching of Steve Compton, generated just enough offense to win a few games. Then came the first game against the Lost Boyz which resulted in an all too familiar trouncing. Steve did his job holding the Boyz' mighty bats to under 20 runs but the offense could not compete and the Eagle's chalked up a loss. Another victory or two would come against the rest of the league with the Eagle's familiar mix of pitching, solid defense and occasional streak hitting. Just as the team appeared to be generating some momentum, they ran into Acme. Acme bats, seemingly immune to Compton's usual magic, literally massacred a short handed Eagle's squad and with the score 25 to 3 and counting, the game was mercifully called by the third inning. It felt like the nationally ranked USC football team had decided to scrimmage the Eagle Rock High School Varsity squad with expected results. Another loss and it was business as usual.
The Eagles had a perfect record against the rest of the league, beating the always competitive RPM and CPod squads. Then came the second games against Lost Boyz and Acme, both resulting in lopsided losses. At the season's end, the Eagles ended up with 6 wins and 4 losses. That was good enough to be the third seeded team in the playoffs in a format where the top four teams are allowed in the post season. For all their hard work, the Eagles were faced with playing the second seed, the Lost Boyz. Should a miracle occur, and they beat that squad, they would face an even greater challenge, getting a shot at the winner of the Acme versus RPM game.
Sports pundits often say that on any given night, a lesser team can play the game of their lives, and beat a much better squad. As if to prove them true, that's just what the Eagles did, beating the Lost Boyz 17 to 10. Once again, Steve Compton proved to be the X factor as the Lost Boyz were held to their lowest run production of the season. The inspired Eagle's bats also scored the largest run total of the year against the Lost Boyz' normally tough defense. Predictably, Acme handily won their game setting up a championship game featuring the long shot Eagles against arguably the number one team in all of Glendale. That night the Eagles retired to the club to celebrate their accomplishments which had at this point exceeded, nearly everyone but super fan Dan's expectations. In a week, David would meet Goliath.
On a cool Thursday evening in December 2007, the stage was set. Expecting little, the Eagles came out relaxed and scored a few first inning runs temporarily grabbing the lead. Acme answered in typical fashion taking the lead back in their half of the inning. Then something strange happened. The Eagle's took the lead back and never gave it up. Their defense stepped up and their bats came alive. Could it be? Would David indeed defeat Goliath? This one would go down to the finish and in the final inning, with two outs, an Acme hitter hit what looked liked a game ending line drive. As the ball sailed into the outfield, each and every Eagle, and their devoted fans, held their breath. Unfortunately, the ball was dropped and Acme was still alive as the Eagles clung to a three run lead with an Acme runner in scoring position. They'd seen this team change a game with one swing and many thought they'd lost their chance for a victory. By now, the tension was nearly unbearable. With the entire Acme team shouting encouragement to their hitters, Compton calmly stepped on the mound and released his trade mark, high arch pitch. The Acme hitter swung and hit a deep fly to the outfield. Fortunately, this one was caught and the Eagles raced off the field victorious, having just beaten the previously unbeaten, and seemingly invincible, Acme team. You could almost hear Al Michaels shouting, "Do you believe in miracles? Do you believe in miracles?" So ended the Eagles' fairy tale season with the most unlikely, and arguably the finest, victory in the Eagle's history. The Eagles squad may never experience a finer moment. Indeed, they may never beat Acme again. But for one shining moment, they played giant killer against all odds. As they raised their glasses later at the club, they toasted each other and basked in the glory of being the best of the best, dedicating the championship to all their Eagle brothers, their coach, Dick "The Dragon Slayer" Saunders and their loyal fans.

"Highland Park" Booksigning
Charlie Fisher Signing on Feb. 9

“Highland Park” an Arcadia Book

Join in with proud Highland Park community members to celebrate the publication of "Highland Park", at La Casa Blue, 5930 York Boulevard, on February 9, 2008. Author Charles J. (Charlie) Fisher, will be selling and signing copies of his book from 6 to 9 pm. The new book captures the history of Highland Park, and is part of Arcadia Publishing's, "Images of America" series. Charlie Fisher, community leader and local author, compiled the pictorial history of Highland Park's fascinating past.
Situated between Los Angeles and Pasadena, Highland Park boasts a history of over 100 years. As the first town to be annexed by Los Angeles, this strong community has undergone challenges, struggles, achievements and successes. In over 200 vintage photographs, author Fisher and the Highland Park Heritage Trust collaborate to bring readers along on a stroll down memory lane.
Local readers will delight in the variety of pictures; from the dry and dusty country road intersection of York and Figueroa, to President Teddy Roosevelt visiting Occidental College at its original location, to images of the raging Arroyo Seco taking homes, bridges and roads along with it in the flood of 1914.
Also included is a sizable photo collection of historic homes, businesses, civic buildings, railroads and streetcars that are intertwined in the history of Highland Park.
Author Charles J. Fisher is a professional historian specializing in local history. A native of Los Angeles, he grew up on Mount Washington and has lived in Highland Park for over 25 years. He has researched, written and advocated for more than 85 successful monument applications in Los Angeles and is a past president and current board member of the Highland Park Heritage Trust (HPHT).
The images in this book are drawn from the collection of Virginia Neely, one of the original founders of the Highland Park Heritage Trust, as well as from the author's collection and other local sources.

Here are three of the many wonderful photographs included in the book, “Highland Park” by Charles Fisher. Above is the intersection of York Blvd. and N. Figueroa St. from both the 1880’s and as it is now.	They are taken from almost the same exact viewpoint. Below is N. Figueroa at Ave. 57 in 1936. Do you know what businesses are in these same buildings today?

Highlights of "Highland Park":
. Features never before seen vintage photographs of Highland Park's past
. Spotlights Highland Park's everyday people and those who made an impact in the area's development
. Shows images of old and restored buildings in Highland Park
. Captures Highland Park as it once was and pays tribute to its unique legacy
Available at area bookstores, independent retailers, and online retailers, or through Arcadia Publishing at (888)313-2665 or www.arcadiapublishing.com.
Arcadia Publishing is the leading publisher of local and regional history in the United States. Their mission is to make history accessible and meaningful through the publication of books on the heritage of America's people and places. Have we done a book on your town? Visit www.arcadiapublishing.com and find out more.

Crime Tidbits
Crime was announced to be down this month at the monthly neighborhood watch block captains meeting. Car thefts continued in the Figueroa St. and Cypress Park corridors. Burglary from a motor vehicle continued as well in the same areas, so make sure you remove anything of value from your car. Robberies also continued along Figuroa dn south of York Bl.
Residential burglaries occurred on Yosemite Drive, Verdugo Road, and again near Figueroa and Monte Vista streets. The grand totals in the Eagle Rock area were: 3 aggravated assaults, 17 burglary from motor vehicle (BTFV), 8 burglaries, 16 GTAs (auto theft), and 3 robberies.
A high speed chase that started in Glendale came through Eagle Rock on Hill Drive. Target is forming an Eagle Rock business watch, they say with the goal of working with the community, but the Chamber of Commerce, Neighborhood Council and TERA were not yet included or informed of the effort.
One resident complained and swore that a local air-born LAPD officer was using the police helicopter to check on his own house in the middle of the night while he was on duty, and a petition to slow down traffic on Colorado Bl. was circulated.

Best Friends Forever

At the Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce Installation dinner former Councilman Nick Pacheco takes a moment to visit with a long time friend and supporter Eleanor Duffy.

CHARLES T. HAYNE 1923 - 2007,

born May 20, 1923 in Los Angeles, CA, was the youngest of six children, three boys & three girls. His parents, Charles Thomas Hayne Sr. and Helen Myrtle Steeves, had moved to California from Kansas in 1922 with his older sisters and brothers. The family settled in the Glassell Park, Eagle Rock area. In 1926 his dad's untimely death at 47 left him with out a father. His oldest brother, 18 year old George, stepped in to help his mother raise the family.
Charles grew up during the great depression and never forgot the hard times he and his family endured. His Mother was a devout Christian and a charter member of the Glassell Baptist Church where he was baptized in 1933.
During his school years, he picked up the nickname of "Chuck" and went by that the rest of his life. Chuck attended Delevan Drive Elementary School, Irving Jr. High and Lincoln High School, graduating in Winter 1942. He went to work for Van de Camps Bakery as a swing shift oven operator.
It was at the Sr. High Sunday school class where he met a young lady named Letha Marie Latham, also in the winter 1942 class, but at Franklin High. Letha's family was also from Kansas, and had settled in the Eagle Rock area. Chuck & Letha were married Oct. 1, 1942 at the Glassell Park Baptist Church. At that time, World War II was under way and Chuck was drafted into the Army in February 1943.
Letha moved in with her parents while Chuck went to Ft. Bliss, Texas for training with an anti-aircraft unit. During his training, his first child, Charles Jr., was born August ll, 1943. After a short leave to see his son he returned to Texas, and soon after was badly injured when an army truck overturned. After months in an Army hospital, he was discharged in January of 1944, and returned home.
His second child, Mary, was born Oct. 2, 1944. In 1945, he went to work for his brother-in-law at Vick Plumbing in Eagle Rock. His third child, Nancy, was born in June 1946. In 1947, his brother George encouraged him to take a job at the Payne Furnace Co. His fourth child, Linda, was born in November 1947.
In 1953, Chuck, with the help of many friends and family built a four bedroom, two bath home and moved in March of 1954. He lived in that house until his death.
Chuck continued working for the heating company until he retired in 1986. His fifth child, Kent, was born September 1957. That same year Chuck, Letha and the five children joined the Eagle Rock Baptist Church, where he remained a member until his death.
Chuck's retirement years were happy ones. He loved to travel and took many trips. He loved tinkering in the garage. He collected state license plates and frames. He and Letha took a number of RV trips with his children to Kansas, their favorite place, to visit family and friends. Chuck had a laugh you just couldn't forget. He loved to tell story's and hug the girls.
Chuck is survived by his wife of over 65 years, five children, thirteen grandchildren, twenty great grandchildren, (two more on the way) and one great-great-grandchild. Services were held on December 28, 2007 at Eagle Rock Baptist Church, followed by interment at Forest Lawn, Glendale. Chuck lived his whole life in Glassell Park.

Car Leaves Freeway,

Lands in Arroyo Seco
Avenue 43 and Pasadena Freeway
On Sunday, January 27, 2008 at 7:56 AM, 6 Companies of Los Angeles Firefighters, 3 LAFD Rescue Ambulances, 1 Heavy Rescue, 1 EMS Battalion Captain, 1 Battalion Chief Officer Command Team, and 3 Swift Water Teams all under the direction of Battalion Chief Richard Elder responded to a Traffic Collision at Avenue 43 and the Pasadena Freeway in Lincoln Heights/Solano Canyon. A car traveling northbound on the Pasadena Freeway jettisoned off the freeway, landing in a flood control channel which runs parallel to the freeway. The car came to rest on it's wheels, some 30 feet below the freeway.
Fortunately, even though the area was inundated with heavy rains at the time, the water traveling down the flood control channel was less than 6 inches deep. Both occupants of the car were able to self extricate themselves and were found standing in the water. Both patients, a 29 year-old female and a 35 year-old female were able to move to the outer edge of the wash where Firefighters were able to assess and stabilize them prior to hoisting them to the roadway above.
Both patients were removed from the channel using a litter basket/hoist operation and transported to Los Angeles County Medical Center for evaluation. One patient sustained minor injuries and the other patient sustained serious, non-life threatening injuries. The cause of the incident is under investigation by the CHP.
 

Third Annual Wild Game B.B.Q. at the EAGLES
On Saturday, February 23 2008, at 6:00 p.m. a GRAND BARBECUE will be held at the EAGLES LODGE, located at 1596 Yosemite Drive.
The Hosting Eagle Rock Sportsmen's club is importing a whole Buffalo from the High Country Range in Montana. "We've got the prime cuts of Buffalo plus a Rocky Mountain Cow Elk and a couple of other surprises," say Scott Gianoli, Chairman of the event. For the shy type, loads of barbequed chicken and side dishes will be served.
All proceeds will benefit the GOOD SHEPHERD SCHOOL at Garvanza & Figueroa Streets. Entry is $ 10.00 and includes Dinner and Dancing to live Country & Western music sponsored by Robert & Pat of S.W. HILL COUNTRY. Word is there is a wagonload of Raffie and Door Prizes to be had too!
Uncle Max Norris will M.C. the night and you can count on him to hit the floor with his version of the Texas Two Step in between his cornball jokes. Max will award the GRAND PRIZE of a THREE DAY PRINCESS CRUISE, not to mention all of the other fine prizes!

Angelo J. Ristuccia
Born: 02/04/1933 Died: 01/14/2008

Born Brooklyn, New York, resident of Los Angeles since 1960. Department of Water and Power employee for 35 years. Veteran of the army (Korean war). Survived by sister, Rose Ristuccia, and Godaughter, Georgia Marie Vidal.

INSTALLATION:

 for the Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce- Incoming board members receive their oath from State Assemblyman Anthony Portantino. From right, Tom Topping, Boulevard Sentinel; Rudy Martinez, Mia Sushi; Shirley Pascal, Universal Bank; Ursula Brown, Brown Properties; Victor Parrino, Colombos Restaurant. Seated at lower right is director Alan Yap.

VOICE IN THE EAGLE ROCK WILDERNESS

COLLECT YOUR EAGLE ROCK RAIN, AND LISTEN TO THE ACORNS
Christopher Nyerges
[Nyerges is a manager at the Tuesday Highland Park Farmers Market, and the author of "How To Survive Anywhere." He has led outdoor classes since 1974 through local non-profit WTI, and through his own organization. For more information about his books and classes, write to Box 41834, Eagle Rock, CA 90041, or www.ChristopherNyerges.com.]
OK, the drought is over. At least it's over this year. But hold on – the fact that we have lots of rain this year doesn't mean we should waste water and forget all the lessons that the water people have been trying to get across. After all, we live here in a desert here in Eagle Rock! All of L.A. County is part of a coastal desert plain. A desert! And it is absurd and suicidal that our "leaders" allow development to occur at unrestricted levels, increasing the population and the demand for water here in this desert. Were it not for the great water projects that bring Northern California and Colorado River water to Eagle Rock, there's no way that this many people could reside here in Eagle Rock and Los Angeles County. The local ecology simply couldn't support all of us who choose to live here and use water.
So, besides expressing thanks for this rain, what can we do to reduce our demands upon the local and distant water supplies?
We can collect all the rain water possible, store it in closed containers, and use it later in the year as needed. This is one of those "old arts" that urban people have ignored and forgotten. But harvesting rain water is not all that difficult to do. It simply requires planning ahead.
Any container can be used to collect rain, simply by positioning it under a home's downspouts. Containers should always be covered when full to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes. Water that will be used for human consumption should be purified before drinking (see my "How to Survive Anywhere" book for more details on this, available at bookstores).
We should grow drought tolerant plants, and skip the silly notion of a lawn. Skip the pointless grass, and use that space to grow herbs, fruit trees, and natives. Land should never be scalped bare, as we often see done by so-called "gardeners," and often due to the ignorant dictates of the fire department whose can only see reality in terms of "fire-safe" or "non-fire-safe." (A fire official once told me, with a straight face, that he'd be happy if I totally paved over my yard in cement since then there 'd be zero fire hazard!).
When open areas are covered in mulch, the soil retains moisture and less water is needed for agriculture and gardens. Such water-saving practices ought to be common-knowledge and second-nature. Write to me if you have questions about any of this.
THE ACORNS SPEAK
I've been monitoring the acorn crop every fall for the past 30 years. According to beliefs of some western Native Americans, the size of the acorn crop predicts the severity of the upcoming winter. Yes, I know biologists scoff at such things, saying that a crop size is the result of the past season. Such biologists prefer computer models to "predicting" future weather.
As far as I am concerned, the old observations, properly understood, and modern technologies, needn't be at odds. In the past 30 years, heavy acorn crops have always preceded a heavy, wet, cold winter, and low acorn crops always preceded a very dry winter. (Only two of the last 30 years did not follow this pattern). In our driest ever season last winter, the preceding acorn crop was nearly non-existent. In the fall of 2007, we had abundant acorn crops. It was not the heaviest I have ever seen, which leads me to conclude that the 07/08 winter will be above average, though not record-breaking. Will shall see.

Local Restaurant Owners Lose it on TV

Last year, Jim and Jeff Theil, the twin brother owners of the Capri Italian restaurant, were part of the National Body Challenge TV show, lost 90 pounds each, and brought their new nutritional knowledge to the Capri's menu. Both were quite overweight at the start of the challenge, and at 346 and 296 respectively were severely at risk for all kinds of health problems like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Jim and Jeff, quite well known for their various TV and acting roles over the years tried out to be on "The Biggest Loser," but didn't make it. Later, they got a call back as the Discovery Channel was interested in using them for the "Twins" episode of the "National Body Challenge."
Soon, they were learning about changing their lifestyle, and changing their eating habits as well.
"The nutritionist came to our house and went through our cupboards," said Jim. "She started throwing everything out." They soon learned about what to eat, how much, and how often to eat as well.
I couldn't help but ask, "What can you eat?"
"We can eat chicken and fish and vegetables," said Jim. "We learned how to size our portions and now we eat 5 times a day. No more sausage, hamburgers, fries or alcohol.
The 44 year old twins also stepped up their activity, literally, by working out at Bally's, one of the sponsors of the challenge, and walked every day for exercise.
What do their meals typically consist of? "We'll have a cup of cereal, a cup of fat free yogurt, and a cup of frozen blueberries for breakfast," said Jeff. A mid-morning snack consists of a piece of fruit and string cheese. Lunch might consist of a salad with vegetables, three ounces of chicken or turkey or non-fat cottage cheese. For a mid-afternoon snack, a one ounce bag of unsalted almonds does the trick.
For dinner, another three ounces of lean protein like chicken, fish or turkey, vegetables, and sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes? It turns out they're not as starchy as regular ones. That, with a little whole grain bread rounds out dinner and still allows them a late night snack of a non-fat sorbet bar.
They now religiously read the labels of whatever food they may buy.
They've lost 90 pounds each. Jim went from 346 to 256 pounds and brother Jeff dropped down to 206 from his starting weight of 296. They look and feel better than they have in years, with lots of energy and a renewed enthusiasm for life.
You may be wondering what impact this experience has had on their Italian restaurant business with all the mouthwateringly delicious pasta and pizza dishes they serve up five nights a week. Drawing on the energy and inspiration from the "Challenge," they've turned that into a positive as well by creating a variety of new menu items that are both delicious and healthy.
First on the list is the whole wheat pizza, topped with low sodium turkey Italian sausage. Whole wheat pasta is available, too. I asked, "What would a delicious and healthy order for dinner be at the Capri?"
Jeff said, "Start out with a green salad, dressing on the side. Balsamic vinegar and oil is the best, but not too much. Order some whole wheat pasta with tomato sauce, oil and garlic. Half orders are available.
"Try the healthy chicken parmesan. It's made with tomato, mushroom, basil, topped with cheese and sauce and baked, not fried. Our soup’s great, too. They're all vegetable based.
"Order a wheat crust pizza with turkey sausage, easy cheese and lots of veggies. Drink a lot of water to help fill you up, and have one glass of wine."
So, the Theil brothers took what usually is considered a negative thing- dieting; and turned it into a positive; healthy eating and healthy lifestyle. And, like so many of the good folks who live and work in Northeast L.A., when they get something great they don't just sit on it for themselves, they give it away back in the form of inspiration, friendship, and a whole new world of healthy restaurant eating choices for their friends and customers.

Cruizin’ with Mary

2008 started off slowly and coldly for the Eagle Rockin'Rodders Car Club. Due to the very cold weather, rain and wind, plus colds and flu that have been plaguing our members, our January cruise in at Oinkster was very small and low-key. While some of us did show up despite the bad weather, no one wants to take their hot rods out, especially if you have one of the older cars that has only one, or in some cases, no, windshield wipers. We decided to cancel our raffle, which has been rescheduled to the February cruise in, complete with lots of goodies.
Getting a new car, especially a hot rod, is always exciting. When it's the car of your dreams, and one you have been waiting on for several years, it makes the final acquisition all that much more sweet. Such is the case for club members Linda and Louie DeLaRosa. Louie was finally able to bring home a car he had his eye on for at least the last 3 years: A 1937 2-door Ford slant back sedan. The car is beige (but I'll think up a better name for this color…) with center-line wheels, a 350 engine with a street blower, and is very impressive.

Louie was finally able to bring home a car he had his eye on for at least the last 3 years: A 1937 2-door Ford slant back sedan.

I asked Louie for a quote about the car: He said, "Don't call it a gangsta car, I call it my hot rod." So noted! Louie took the car out with friend Keith Jackson for the maiden cruise on Dec. 31 when club members met at Carrows in Arcadia, then cruised the Rose Parade route with a couple hundred other hot rod enthusiasts. It was funny, Louie had just brought the car home and had not yet removed the "For Sale" sign. People were coming up to him asking "How much?" He had to tell them proudly it was not for sale and that he just hadn't removed the sign yet. This was his first experience taking his new baby in a cruise situation with lots of other hot rods, and seeing how much fun this can be. There's nothing like cruising with a bunch of friends, and now Louie and Linda really feel a part of the cruising world. So congratulations to them!
The Glendale Kiwanis Car Show will be held on Sun. Mar 16 at Verdugo Park from 10 to 3:00 pm. This is a fun, relaxed show, providing the grass isn't too wet! See you there, and keep on cruising!
(Author Mary Garson is a graduate of Eagle Rock High School, and is firmly entrenched in the Eagle Rock lifestyle.)

The Santa Cecilia Orchestra Presents
"The Best of the Mexico & USA"

February 10th at Occidental College, Thorne Hall
Santa Cecilia Orchestra, under the baton of Music Director/Conductor Sonia Marie De Leon de Vega, will perform an orchestra concert at Occidental College, Thorne Hall, Sunday, February 10 at 4:00 p.m.
The program includes Moncayo's Huapango, one of Mexico's most popular compositions, Chavez's Sinfonia India which is considered one of his most nationalistic works, combing modernism and indigenous themes, Aaron Copland's Appalachian Spring captures the essence of an ideal America, one of open fields and endless possibilities, and soloist Deborah Buck performs Barber's violin concerto, a virtuoso showpiece.
Sonia Marie De Leon de Vega is one of the most commanding figures in music in the region – Her exhilarating vision for classical music is energizing the arts in our community in many ways. She has recently received international attention on Univision's "Orgullo Hispano" a profile that is reserved for the most accomplished Hispanic artists in the world. She was voted as one of the "100 most influential Hispanics in the United States" and voted one of the "80 Elite Hispanic Women" by Hispanic Business Magazine. Last September Ms. De Leon de Vega was named Local Hero by KCET which aired a profile on Ms. De Lon de Vega throughout Hispanic Heritage Month.
De Vega is also energizing the arts through the Orchestra's educational and outreach program "Discovering Music." The program introduces Latino children and families in underserved areas in Los Angeles to classical music and the instruments of the orchestra, and provides orchestra concerts in their own community. The program includes children's choirs and an extensive instrumental program that provides free violin lessons to over 200 children in the communities of Northeast Los Angeles.
Violinist, Deborah Buck, will perform Barber's Violin Concerto. Ms. Buck is a member of the Lark Quartet. She has built a strong musical career as soloist, chamber musician, and recitalist. Ms. Buck's recitals have been heard over the airways via broadcasts of the Dame Myra Hess Series in Chicago for WFMT and for "Sunday's Live" in Los Angeles for KKGO. Additionally, she has been a recitalist at the Phillips Collection in Washington, DC and soloist with many orchestras including the Little Orchestra Society at Alice Tully Hall, Lincoln Center, the Brooklyn Philharmonic, and the West Virginia Symphony. Her National television debut came by way of a feature guest spot on the Family Channel's, "It Takes Two" hosted by Dick Clark. Her violin solos for television helped breathe life back into the re-mastered American Silent Film classic, "The Scarlet Letter,"(Turner Classic Movies).
As soloist and chamber musician, she has recorded for both Arabesque Records and the North South record label. In addition to her quartet life, she is in high demand as a collaborator. Notably, she had the honor of performing alongside Itzhak Perlman in a performance of the Brahms Sextet in G Major in Shelter Island, N.Y. Most recently, Ms. Buck has enjoyed working with harpsichordist, Kenneth Cooper at the Berkshire Bach Society and with Ani Kavafian at the Mostly Music series in New Jersey. Ms. Buck was educated at the Juilliard School as a Starling Scholar of Dorothy DeLay and the University of Southern California as a student of Robert Lipsett where she was the recipient of the Jascha Heifetz Violin Prize. She has spent the last seven summers serving on the faculty at the Kinhaven Music School in Weston, Vermont. Ms. Buck performs on a violin by Vincenzo Postiglione, graciously on loan by the Maestro Foundation, Cremona.
There will be one performance only of this program at 4:00pm, Sunday, February 10 at the Thorne Hall, Occidental College. Tickets, priced at $24, $18 and $5 for youth, are available by calling the Santa Cecilia Orchestra Office at (323) 259-3011 or logging onto www.scorchestra.org to purchase on-line.
For more information or to schedule an interview, please call 323-259-3011or e-mail santaceciliao@aol.com
 

Music 101 Seminar
Feb 9 @
Center for the Arts
Are you a songwriter or musician seeking knowledge about the business side of the music industry, its future, and how you can be a financially rewarded for your talents? During 2008, Center for the Arts, Eagle Rock will unite musicians with major industry professionals on the art of success in the music business. The first seminar on Saturday, February 9th from 12pm to 2pm, will focus on "The Importance of Music Copyright and Performing Rights Organizations." Panelists will include James Leach of SESAC, Joe Maggini of BMI, Tom de Savia of ASCAP, and Merlene Travis of Sony Pictures Entertainment.
The discussion will be moderated by Tony Scudellari of Sony Pictures Television and Brian McPherson, music attorney and founder, Pacific Electric Music Publishing. Thanks to Councilmember Jose Huizar's office, translation equipment for the seminar will be provided for the Spanish speaking music community. Cost to attend the February 9th seminar is $10 per person, including light refreshments. Due to limited space, advance registration is required.
Music 101: The Importance of Music Copyright & Performing Rights Organizations Saturday, February 9th, 12pm to 2pm Center for the Arts, Eagle Rock, 2225 Colorado Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90041 $10 per person - RSVP required as seating is limited Light refreshments will be served.
To register, please call the Center for the Arts, Eagle Rock: 323 226 1617. Center for the Arts, Eagle Rock is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization whose mission is to provide multicultural, innovative arts programming to the communities of Northeast Los Angeles. Programs include the groundbreaking Eagle Rock Music Festival, exhibitions, community festivals, and free and low-cost after school arts classes, a Summer Art Camp and more. For more information on the Center for the Arts and its creative community programs, call 323 226 1617 and visit
www.centerartseaglerock.org

Zone 5 in the City
Deadline Extended:
The Arroyo Arts Collective invites artists of all disciplines to submit proposals through February 15, 2008 for temporary site-specific installations addressing issues of sustainability within the Audubon Center at Debs Park.
The exhibition, Zone 5 in the City: Art Sustaining Nature, will be April 12 through May 10, 2008. Artist Opportunity Zone 5 in the City: Art Sustaining Nature The Arroyo Arts Collective's site-specific temporary installation exhibition, Zone 5 in the City: Art Sustaining Nature, refers to permaculture's classification of "Zone 5" as the wilderness zone from which we learn the important lesson of working with nature not against it.
Zone 5 in the City is a project that brings professional artists together with High School students to explore the issue of sustainability through the construction of site-specific installations on the grounds of the Audubon Center at Debs Park. The Audubon Center is located on one of the last parcels of open space in Los Angeles . Comprising 282 acres of urban wilderness, it contains California walnut woodland and coastal scrub habitats.
Located in a wildlife corridor for migratory birds, the park is a haven for 138 species of birds. The Audubon's building was designed using the principles of sustainability. The design focuses on a number of key environmental issues that are at the heart of sustainable building, including renewable energy sources, water conservation, recycled building materials, and native landscaping.
The exhibit asks artists to consider two questions:
1) What distinguishes the local ecosystem in and around the 17 acres surrounding the Audubon Center ?
2) How can we best safeguard the resources needed for a high quality of life for all the members (human, plant and animal) of the Northeast community for many generations?
Proposal Submission Process
The Arroyo Arts Collective (www.arroyoartscollective.org) invites artists of all disciplines to submit proposals for temporary, site-specific installations addressing issues of sustainability within the area bounded by Griffin Avenue, Scrub Jay Trail and the Butterfly Loop. As the Audubon Center is first and foremost a wildlife sanctuary it is important for artists to not disturb the living environments of the plants and animals within the grounds.
Intrusive activities such as digging or the introduction of non-local plant or animal species is not allowed. Artists are permitted to harvest plants within the Center's boundaries. Because of the delicate balance of the ecosystems within the park, Elva Yanez, Director of the Audubon Center , will preview all proposals. Artists are encouraged to visit and explore the park; admission is free and they are open Wednesday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The park is located at: 4700 North Griffin Avenue , Los Angeles , CA 90031. Honorariums of $250 - $500 will be awarded to artists whose proposals are selected by jurors Helen Lessick and James Rojas. Award decisions will be based on the complexity and monetary needs of the installation. Submit two copies of the following Project Description: 500 word typed proposal including materials, construction methods, location, and student' s role. C.V./ Resume Images: Five images of past work on cd in .jpg format; one detail shot of each work can also be included. Budget: Line item budget of cost of installation including materials, equipment, transportation, assistance, etc. Optional: Sketch of proposed installation; image of proposed site. Include an SASE to return materials and name and contact information on all materials. No electronic submissions accepted. Mail to: Zone 5/ Arroyo Arts Collective P.O. Box 50835 Los Angeles, CA 90050-0835
NEW Deadlines and Important Dates
February 15, 2008 - All proposals must be received by this date
February 29, 2008 - Selected artists notified by phone, all others by mail.
March 29-April 11, 2008 - Installation of projects
April 12-May10, 2008 - Exhibition
May 14-May 17, 2008 - De-installation

The Southwest Society
Passes "100 Days"
Marked by Secrecy and Inaction

by Nicole Possert
January 10, 2008 –
The Friends of the Southwest Museum Coalition, an umbrella group representing over 70 organizations concerned about the future of the Southwest Museum in Los Angeles, calls into question the lack of promised fundraising and the continued secrecy surrounding The Southwest Society. This new entity, announced by the Autry National Center, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa and Councilmember José Huizar over 100 days ago, remains elusive.
The public has yet to receive any further information concerning the details of The Southwest Society, a clarification that was asked for months ago by the Coalition. In the public interest, the Coalition demands that the Autry and our elected officials provide a more transparent and accurate explanation of this undefined entity that has been put in place to confuse the public and buffer the Autry's promised merger intentions and fiduciary obligations.
"Our elected officials are well known in Northeast Los Angeles for issuing detailed and exhaustive accomplishment reports at the 100 day mark of service. It's been well over 100 days for The Southwest Society and the silence is deafening," said Nicole Possert, Chair of the Friends of the Southwest Museum Coalition and Highland Park Heritage Trust's organizational representative.
A list of "Honorary Charter Members" was included at the time of the Society's announcement. In the last 100 days, the Coalition has spoken to many of these listed persons. It is clear that they lent their names without sufficient details or an understanding that the future limited use would not be a full museum. They have lent their names because of political courtesy or simply because they were asked by an elected official. Several have indicated that there has been no further communication, meetings or information from the Autry since lending their names to this phantom organization.
"Based on this inaction and secrecy, we have to ask, 'Is the Southwest Society merely an illusion? Can the public entrust the future of the Southwest Museum to a group that hasn't held one meeting of its members?,'" questioned Possert.
At the September 27, 2007 press conference that excluded the public and the Coalition, Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, Councilmember José Huizar and the Autry National Center announced the formation of this new entity, The Southwest Society. The stated purpose was to raise funds to restore and revitalize the Southwest Museum and Casa de Adobe for Autry's new purpose of converting them into some vague cultural and educational uses rather than retaining their primary functions as full museums.
This purpose gives the false appearance that the issues are resolved through the efforts of The Southwest Society during a critical time that Autry is simultaneously seeking project approvals for a massive 250,000 square foot structure in Griffith Park. This project, if realized, results in the unnecessary removal and loss of the City's first museum institution – Charles Fletcher Lummis' Southwest Museum in the Arroyo Seco area of Los Angeles.
The Friends of the Southwest Museum Coalition have a simple, consistent and long-held position since the 2003 merger that created the Autry National Center:
Ø Retain and create a world class Southwest Museum as the primary exhibition location of the Southwest Collection in its original location as promised by Autry officials at the time of the merger
Ø Ensure, via an enforceable agreement, that there is a future museum use for both the Southwest Museum and Casa de Adobe
This position is based upon the factual findings from two studies indicating that the rehabilitation, maintenance and continuing operation of the historic facilities, can be accomplished on a sound economic basis. Autry commissioned the first large comprehensive studied led by Brenda Levin and Associates entitled "Southwest Museum Rehabilitation Report" which concluded that there is a way to achieve future success as a museum with over 12,000 square feet of space devoted to the exhibition of the Collection. But the Autry Board of Directors, through CEO John Gray, rejected that plan and turned its back on the communities of the Arroyo who supported it. These studies are available only at the Coalition's website (www.FriendsofTheSouthwestMuseum.com) as Autry ignores its own consultants' work.
Autry's so-called current plans to convert to a cultural center won't save the Southwest Museum as a museum destination. They will enable Autry to relocate and absorb the Southwest Museum into a new larger museum in Griffith Park while gutting the first museum in Los Angeles from its important iconic location in the Arroyo Seco. That is why the Coalition asks the public, especially any potential donors to The Southwest Society, to get the facts, demand transparency and learn the truth about Autry's possible plans.
The Coalition's position is consistent. It offers a real vision for the future of the Southwest Museum, embracing necessary change and providing hope for our children, community and future generations. We believe that Northeast Los Angeles can and must retain the Southwest Museum to provide our wonderfully diverse peoples a museum gem to enjoy for the next 100 years. After five years, the Coalition is growing in size, volunteering and actively working towards a vibrant museum future. We hope that The Southwest Society can make itself known, re-define its purpose and raise the necessary funds for a full museum use that opens in 2010 or 2011, as Autry has previously promised the people and political leaders of Los Angeles.

Hi Tom,
Sure enjoy your paper every month. You mentioned at the end of your 2007 review that the time is going by quick these days. I read an explanation for this several years back. When you are 5 years old, each year represents 1/5 of your entire life span. When you are 50, then each year is a 50th of your life span. So each year is a smaller proportion of your entire life span. That's why they hurl by so quickly the older we get.
Cheers! And happy new year.
Jon Longworth, Eagle Rock

Renaissance Arts
Free Concert
On Saturday, February 9, at 10:00 am., Renaissance Arts Academy will offer a free Outreach Concert and an Inter-Active Morning of Music and Dance.
Renaissance Arts Academy is a Charter Public Charter School providing a classical academic and arts education to students in Grades 6 ­ 12. Students currently in Grade 5 and their families are invited to visit the school, meet the students, watch the RenArts' Orchestra, Chorus and Dance Company perform, and actively participate in music and dance activities.
The inter-active events include an instrument petting zoo, where students can see what it feels like to playa string instrument, and a dance demonstration where students who love to move to music can join in.
Renaissance Arts Academy, is located at 1800 Colorado Boulevard in Eagle Rock. Parking is available in the lot at Colorado and Argus, or on the street.
About Renaissance Arts Academy
RenArts is a music and performing arts school that provides an integrated classical education for middle school and high school students of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds. RenArts does not charge tuition. The school is nonsectarian in its programs, admission policies, employment practices, and all other operations, and does not discriminate against any pupil on the basis of ethnicity, national origin, gender, disability, religion, sexual orientation, and/or association with individuals with one or more of the above actual or perceived characteristics. RenArts is open to all students who wish to attend the school. Admission is by lottery.
Outstanding Student Achievement
On November 30, 2007 the City Council of Los Angeles formally recognized Renaissance Arts Academy for outstanding academic achievement. RenArts received a 2007 API score of 837, making it the highest-scoring middle school and the second highest-scoring high school in the Los Angeles Unified School District, outperforming both Charter and Non-Charter Public Schools. Since opening in 2003, RenArts' API scores have increased by 84 points and it has made significant progress towards closing the achievement gap by establishing and maintaining high expectations for all students. RenArts has a 100% graduation rate, with graduates accepted to UC Berkley, UCLA, UC Riverside, UC Santa Cruz, Cal State LA, Cal State Northridge, San Francisco State, Mills College, Occidental College, Reed College and St. John's College. All RenArts graduates are continuing their education in 2 or 4 year colleges. www.renarts.org

Plein Air: From Giverny to the Arroyo
Art Historian and Educator Ronald Steen To Speak March 20, 2008
As Part of The Sydney D. Gamble Lecture Series.
Gallery Tours of Judson Studio to be offered on March 22.
PASADENA –Jan. 7, 2008 –
Since the turn of the century, California artists have taken cues from French plein air (open air) painters by carrying supplies outdoors to create delicate and dreamy landscapes which would become romantic portraits of the West Coast.
"Plein Air: From Giverny to the Arroyo" is the topic of an upcoming lecture by art historian and educator Ronald Steen, set to take place 7:30 p.m. on March 20, 2008 at the Neighborhood Church, 2 Westmoreland Place, Pasadena. The lecture is sponsored by the Friends of the Gamble House.
Steen will trace the progress of the plein air movement, beginning with Monet and the French Impressionists, through its introduction in the Eastern United States all the way up to Southern California 's immersion in the naturalistic style of painting.
In addition, Steen will lead a tour of the current contemporary plein air exhibition at Judson Studio's Gallery in Highland Park on March 22 from 4:30-6 p.m.
Ticket prices for the Steen lecture are $25 for the general public, $20 for Friends of the Gamble House (FOGH) members and $15 for students. Tickets for the Judson Gallery tour are $20 for the general public and free for FOGH members.
The final lecture in the series is Bret Parsons on Gerard Colcord on April 24.
For more information and to order tickets, call (626) 793-3334, ext. 52 or visit www.gamblehouse.org.
About Ronald Steen
Ronald Steen has been an instructor at California State University-Fullerton and lectured for the J. Paul Getty Museum Education Department. He conducts art history lectures, classes and tours in Southern California and art study trips to Northern California, New York , Chicago and Europe . He is currently Curator of Exhibitions and Director of Programming and Education at the Judson Gallery of Contemporary and Traditional Art at Judson Studios.
About the Friends of the Gamble House (FOGH)
A support group of the University of Southern California , the FOGH is composed of individuals, corporations and organizations dedicated to the financial support of the Gamble House. Membership fees and Friends-sponsored events help fund the education and restoration programs of the Gamble House.
About the Gamble House
Built in 1908, the Gamble House is the most complete and best preserved example of the work of renowned Pasadena architects Charles and Henry Greene. The Gamble House is an internationally recognized National Historic Landmark in the style of the American Arts and Crafts movement. The official property of the City of Pasadena , the house is in a joint operating agreement and managed by the University of Southern California .
The Gamble House is open for public tours Thursday – Sunday, noon – 3 p.m., closed on national holidays. For more information, visit www.gamblehouse.org.

ABC Mambo:
Children's Educational DVD by Valerie Ozeta to Debut at Rock Rose Art Gallery
Rock Rose Art Gallery will be hosting "Play and Learn Day" Saturday, February 9, 2008
for children ages 2 to 5 years old and their families beginning at 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. The event,
which will incorporate activities from the educational dvd "ABC Mambo", was created by educator and filmmaker Valerie Ozeta. This event is the first of many community collaborations to offer youth arts programs at Rock Rose Art Gallery in 2008.
Ms. Ozeta, who believes that young children learn best when they are having fun, combines 15 years experience as an educator and twenty years in film and theater in a video which engages children and parents while providing valuable learning skills. The dvd, which incorporates colorful graphics, entertaining songs, interactive activities, sound and letter recognition, song and dance activities, helps to develop skills such as letter formation, letter recognition, beginning sound identification as well as listening and motor skills. Ms. Ozeta states, as a mother of a young child, she realizes the importance of starting the learning process at an early age. Her dvd supports parents and educators in their efforts to create a learning environment in the home in a fun and entertaining way. She hopes everyone can come out and enjoy this fun educational day as "The family that learns together, grows together."
The entire "ABC Mambo" creative team will participate in this debut presentation. Included are the producer/creator Valerie Ozeta, artist /director Luis Alberto Cayo and the children and mommies who worked together on this fun project. A special guest appearance by radio/tv personality, Pepe Barreto will add to the excitement of the day. Suggested donation per family is $5.00. For more information regarding the dvd "ABC Mambo" or to rsvp for the February 9 event, please visit www.gotwolf.net.
Since opening it's door in Historic Highland Park in 2000, Rock Rose Art Gallery's mission has been to present and nurture visual and performing artists of all ages in an environment that also bridges communities through the arts. Located in the historic Arroyo Section of Northeast Los Angeles at 4108 N. Figueroa Street in Highland Park, the gallery can be reached by the metro Gold Line exiting at the Southwest Museum stop. For more information regarding all arts programs and events offered or produced by Rock Rose, please call (323) 635-9125, email rockroseart@yahoo.com or visit www.rockroseproductions.com.
 

OPTIMIST APPOINTS NEW DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT
Optimist Youth Homes & Family Services, one of the region's largest mental health treatment and education centers for at-risk youth, has announced the promotion of Jennifer K. D'Alvarez to director of development.
A resident of Monrovia , D'Alvarez will be responsible for overseeing the research and requests for funding support, major gifts and planned giving programs; special events; communications and outreach; and coordinating activities with the agency's Advisory Board and Optimist Clubs.
She joined the OYHFS staff in July 2006 as assistant director of development where she played a special role in major gifts and contributed to all areas of fundraising.
"During this particularly challenging time of declining government funding for at-risk youth, it has been our priority to recognize those who go the extra mile for our mission," said Sil Orlando, executive director of Optimist Youth Homes & Family Services. "Jennifer's impressive accomplishments, professionalism and commitment led to her promotion."
Prior to joining Optimist Youth Homes & Family Services, D'Alvarez was capital campaign manager for Southern California Public Radio, where she oversaw a $20 million capital campaign, developed fundraising resources and directed a variety of special events. Earlier, she managed a $10 million capital campaign as well as a $5 million endowment campaign for Hillel at UCLA. She received her Masters in Business Administration from Pepperdine University .
Founded in 1906, Optimist Youth Homes & Family Services each week cares for more than 550 abused and neglected children, family members and teenage offenders on probation from around California . Its residential program houses 99 boys on its Highland Park campus and the center also maintains group and transitional homes in the region, a foster care and adoption agency, and multifaceted mental health programs for community youth and family members.

EAGLE ROCK NEWS

Topping Appeal Fails
by Fletcher Figueroa
Tom Topping, editor of the Boulevard Sentinel newspaper, failed in his bid to overturn Superior Court Judge Michael Stern's ruling of December 7, 2006, that left him with $43,000 in his own legal fees, incurred defending a lawsuit that Topping described in court filings as "... a frivolous lawsuit solely to intimidate and silence the publisher of a local newspaper."
James Perry, who filed the lawsuit, was a member of the Eagle Rock Neighborhood Council when Topping reported on the June 6, 2006 meeting of that council where an action to recall fellow board member Everett Sarabia was introduced by Perry. Perry had Topping served with the lawsuit during the August 7, 2006 meeting of the Neighborhood Council, and Donna Tubbs, ERNC treasurer at that time, accepted a $40 fee for serving him.
The California Court of Appeal ruling upheld the Superior Court's denial of Topping's motion that would have made Perry pay for Topping legal fees, and included an order that Perry is entitled to his costs of appeal. However, a rumor circulated shortly after the January 25th ruling, saying that attorney fees were also awarded, but that was not true. Only costs were awarded, not fees.
Topping said later, "It is a high price to pay for protecting freedom of speech, and the right of the community to be kept informed about what their government officials are doing." Topping is not dissuaded, however, and said, "I will continue to try to protect free speech and the community's right to know by asking for a rehearing by the Appellate Court and, if I need to, a review by the California Supreme Court."

Lessons in Whistle Blowing; When Trash Trucks Attack

I was delivering the January issue, when I headed down to the Montecito Heights Senior Center to drop off a bundle of papers. As I pulled away from the stop sign next to El Alisal, the Lummis Home, I saw a man and woman bringing a shopping cart full of recycleables across the bridge. It was one of those carts that has the bags hanging off either side, and had to be pushed in the street because it was much too wide for the sidewalk.
As I approached, a city trash truck that was coming toward me came around the cart and into my lane to get around it. As the truck pulled next to the cart, it seemed to hesitate, and then the "Grabber" arm jutted out, sending the cart and its contents flying.
Besides being an incredibly mean thing for a city employee to do to a poor person just trying to make a few pennies, I thought it was entirely risky as well. If the driver had activated that "arm" a fraction of a second too soon, the man pushing the cart could have been seriously injured. After recording the license of the trash truck and getting the name of the victim, I proceeded to finish my deliveries. Just as I turned into my next stop, I came upon an LAPD cruiser giving a ticket to a motorcyclist for no helmet. After they finished with the ticket, I told them what I had seen.
"We can't do anything about that," I was told by officer Lopez. He said that only the victim could report the incident.
"But I have the victims contact information right here," I answered.
"It doesn't work that way," he replied.
"OK," I said, and took a deep breath. "I should tell you that I am a reporter, and I will be writing about this incident and what your response was when I told you about it."
The officer pulled out his note book, "What was that information again?" he asked. He wrote it all down and I thanked him.
A day later, I sat down and wrote a nice letter to every city official I thought might make a difference in this incident. Well, maybe "nice" isn't exactly accurate, but I let them know what I saw and that I expected to be contacted about what they would do about it. I wrote to eight in all. The Mayor, Councilman Huizar, Councilman Reyes, Public Works Chair Cynthia Ruiz, Police Chief Bratton, Northeast Captain Perez, Department of Sanitation Director Enrique C. Zaldivar, and City Attorney Rocky Delgadillo.
Enrique Zaldivar was the only one of those eight who replied. He left a message and had Jesse Cruz, superintendent of that area call me back. I was also called by a Northeast Division LAPD Detective who did follow up, and tell me that a report had been made.
I was somewhat satisfied when Mr. Cruz called back telling me that he was looking at firing the driver, whose name would not be released. But when he wanted me to show up to back him should the union appeal the firing, I balked. Would my identity be protected? No.
In criminal cases, witnesses are often protected to some degree, but that would not apply here.
Just what I need, a crazy out-of-work trash truck driver with a history of attacking innocent citizens coming after me. I'll do it if he calls, but I'll think twice before doing anything like it next time.

Metro "Dissed" Connections
Metro Los Angeles is divided into five sectors: South Bay, San Fernando Valley, San Gabriel Valley, Gateway and Westside. Metro is planning a massive restructure of bus service that they are calling "Metro Connections", which in fact is actually Metro disconnections. Therefore, Metro is planning a series of public input hearings for each sector. South Bay and San Fernando Valley will both be on Feb 6. San Gabriel Valley will be on Feb 11, Gateway will be on Feb 12, Westside on Feb 13, The last two will be for all sectors downtown on Feb 9, and another Gateway on Feb 14. The San Fernando Valley, Glendale and Burbank are getting hit especially hard. Please remember that bus riders just got hit with a very unfair and massive fare increase. These injustices to the public need to be publicized.
If you have any questions or comments, please contact the Bus Rider's Union at 213 387 2800 or Metro.
Donna Gooley, Valley Village

Cypress park Friends of the Library Book Sale - Feb. 16
Sale to Also Feature New Books from Academic Publishers January 2008, Cypress Park
The Friends of the Cypress Park Library will hold its regular semi-annual Book Sale on Saturday, February 16, from 10:30 a.m. to2:30 p.m. Hundreds of used and like-new books and some CDs, videos, and audiotapes will again be offered for sale to the public at bargain prices (priced at less than $1) to help raise funds to support children's and youth programs at the library.In addition, the sale will include many dozens of new political science books from leading academic publishers, valued at $50 to $75. Thanks to a generous donation arranged through a leading Southern California university, these will be offered at $2 to $3 per book.
The Friends book sale will again be held in the library's Community Room at 1150 Cypress Avenue (at Alice Street), in the Northeast Los Angeles neighborhood of Cypress Park. Contact (323) 224-0039 for general library information. The Friends of the Library group meets regularly to plan fund-raising and volunteer support activities for the library. In addition, the group donations excess copies of some books to local senior-living facilities, convalescent homes, and recognized thrift charities. New members, and book and monetary donations, are always welcome.

Highland Park Council Sends Students to Sacramento
by Stan Moore
For the fifth successive year the HHPNC will be sending nine high school students to the Sacramento Legislative Seminar (SLS), Sunday, Feb. 24 to Tuesday Feb. 26, 2008. Students must write a 500 word essay on "What would I do to make Highland Park Better." A committee then has the very difficult job of selecting the nine plus two alternates. First comes the reading of the essays; this is followed by almost two hours of discussion with Franklin High School faculty, Monica Whalen (who went on the first three trips as advisor/chaperone, and last year's and this year's advisor—Professor Yim Tam. The students will be told on or about Feb. 15 who the fortunate ones will be. The two alternates from last year were guaranteed to go on this year's trip if they so choose. Dr. Stanley Moore will tell the full details of the trip, what to take, etc., prior to the trip. The students will be required to take a warm jacket and an umbrella: the last two years it has poured the proverbial "cats and dogs." The alternates from last year are Giovanny Ramirez and Tina Sanchez. Both attend Franklin, BUT IT IS NOT A REQUIREMENT THAT A STUDENT ATTEND FRANKLIN.
The HHPNC has allocated $1900 for the trip—paying for the 15 passenger van, four rooms for two nights, the SLS fee and the cost of the Monday night reception for legislators and staff personnel. The Monday night reception in the State Capitol is primarily paid for by Pepperdine University, Loyola Marymount University and the Unruh Institute of Politics at U.S.C. The chosen delegates/students need to come with about $35 for food over the three days.
The rest of the expenses are paid by the HHPNC.
The essays can focus on whatever the student wishes--from elimination of graffiti to how they might improve the schools, parks, etc., of Highland Park. In the past the essays have been impressive, and, if the students give their permission, they may be placed on the HHPNC's website: www.historichighlandpark.org. Moore's telephone number is (323) 256-1024. Call if you need more information.
Two members of the HHPNC will hopefully be driving the van to Sacramento, Dr. Stanley W. Moore, vice president of the HHPNC, and one other volunteer. Dr. Moore was president of the Center For Education in Public Affairs for 20 years and so the Faculty members of the 16 colleges and universities which will be attended gave him special permission to bring nine high school students to and otherwise all college program. Professor Yim Tam will be acting as advisor and chaperone of the students. She has been honored by the HHPNC for her work at Franklin, for raising money to take Franklin students to Washington, D.C. Moore taught at the university level for 43 years, the last 33 years at Pepperdine. He will be doing one of the six panel in Room 4203 of the Capitol: Population, Policy and the Water Crisis. The van leaves Franklin High School at 9 a.m., Sunday, Feb. 24. Dinner will be with three of Dr. Moore's former students who now work in the Capitol. Later that night the first panel, a Staff Panel, meets in the Capitol.
 

Eagle Vista Seniors
The Eagle Vista Seniors begin their February Programs with the usual Board meeting at 9:00 am and the Business Meeting at 10: am. The Neighborhood Council Speaker Vince Antonino will address our group.
Feb. 12 (Tuesday) BINGO with caller Alan Miller, and a Valentine Luncheon (Cost $6.00) to celebrate the holiday.
Feb. 19 (Tuesday) David Caballero and his wife will continue our entertainment with their performances on accordian and madolin.
Feb. 21 (Thursday) An outdoor program today! Two hours of whale watching from Dana Poit via chartered boat. The bus transportation departs from Glassell Park at 10:00a.m., and from Eagle Rock Recreation Center at 10:15 a.m. The cost is $51.00. (Bring a snack if 2 p.m. is too long to wait to go to the Brig Restaurant)
Feb. 26 (Tuesday) BINGO, Lou Agrati, caller.
NOTE: (Final Payment for Glendale Theatre trip is due on Feb. first, 2008. That's $22.00 if you forgot)

Distiguished Kiwanian

Third generation Kiwanian, Nancy M. Wyatt was presented with the Distinguished Service Award for her service to the Greater Highland Park community.
Nancy's service includes: work with the community on the, newly opened, skate park for Highland Park, as former judge for the Christmas Parade, help with the founding of the Highland Park Heritage Trust, a founding member of the Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council, service on the City of Los Angeles Debs Park Advisory Board, member of the Highland Park Ebell Club, help with community organizing for the Northeast Community Plan and Goldline lightrail. She was also instrumental in having a new section of sidewalk safety railing installed along Garvanza Elementary School. She is proud to carry on the tradition of service that started with her Grandfather, and continued with her Father, a 50 year plus Kiwanis member, serving the State of Illinois, Robert Wallace Mayer.
The Distinguished Service Award is provided by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Highland Park through a donation to the District Foundation. The presentation took place at the Official Kiwanis Governor's Visit.
For more information call 323-385-4935 or stop in at one of our weekly lunch meetings held at the Police Museum noon-1:30 every Thursday.

Heritage Square Museum and Rock Rose Art Gallery
partner in presenting art exhibit: Women In Art
Beginning February 24th, Rock Rose Art Gallery and Heritage Square Museum team up to present "Women in Art " in the museum's historic Perry Mansion. The exhibit, which celebrates women's history month includes works in all media and features generations of Northeast Los Angeles artists.
The exhibit is appropriately placed in the childhood home of Mamie Perry, an early supporter of the cultural scene in Los Angeles and her daughter, Mona Bonneli, a documentary filmmaker and chronicler of American theater and music in the 1930s.
"Women in Art" runs from February 24th through March 16th, 2008. The exhibit is included with admission and includes a tour of Heritage Square Museum's historic homes. Heritage Square is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday and most holiday Mondays from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Heritage Square is a living history museum dedicated to telling the story of the development of Southern California. At the museum, eight beautiful Victorian-era buildings provide a glimpse of Southern California as it looked 100 years ago. Through events, exhibits and special programs, the museum highlights the years 1850 to 1950.
Heritage Square Museum is located at 3800 Homer Street, off the 110 Arroyo Seco Parkway (110/Pasadena Freeway) at Avenue 43, just north of downtown Los Angeles. For further information, visit our website at www.heritagesquare.org.
For more information about the exhibit, artists and related activities, please call Rock Rose Art Gallery at 323/635-9125, email rockroseproductions@yahoo.com or visit www.rockroseproductions.com.
Rock Rose Art Gallery, located in the historic Arroyo Section of Northeast Los Angeles at 4108 N. Figueroa Street, Highland Park.

Kiwanis
One Day
HP Kiwanis Club's One Day Help Program on April 5
On Saturday, April 5th Kiwanis members from around the world will focus on, "Kiwanis One Day." This annual day of service is being set aside as one day that can help to change the world.
The Highland Park Kiwanis Club is seeking Senior Citizens who live alone, or the families of Iraq and Afghanistan war veterans who are overseas or deceased and who need home repairs that can be done in one or two days by average skill helpers.
The Kiwanis Club of Greater Highland Park is determined to coordinate as many projects as possible for the benefit of the community. "You name it and we will help you with supplies and volunteers as best as we can,' said Heinrich Keifer.
On April 5, and Mayor Villaraigosa's work day in May, the HP Kiwanis Club is willing to provide help of a non-professional nature. The Kiwanis Club has a Builder's Clubs at St. Ignatius School and Luther Burbank (sixth-eighth graders), plus its own members, who are willing to do minor repairs, yard work, painting, etc., for Seniors or spouses who simply do not have the time or physical ability to do some tasks around their homes.
The Kiwanis Club will first check out the proposed work to see if can be done by the Builder's Clubs, assisted and directed by the adult members of the Club, or whether it is deemed beyond the capabilities of the volunteers. If the project is one deemed doable, then it will be scheduled for Saturday, April 5, 2008. If it takes more than the "One Day," then it will be completed in early May on the Mayor's Super Clean Up Day.
As our readers may know, Kiwanis Clubs traditionally perform various community service projects as a regular part of club membership. Kiwanis One Day was designed to provide one day where all clubs would make a special effort to serve. Daily totals of funds spent and volunteer hours can also be tabulated to help stimulate and challenge clubs to compete for the grandest projects completed in the one day quest. "It is my hope to really draw attention to how community service projects can help both the student and adult populations to learn to work together to improve the quality of life," said Heinrich Keifer.
If you are interested in getting help on One Day, please contact either Heinrich Keifer, president of the HP Kiwanis Club at 385-4935, or Dr. Stan Moore, president-elect, at (323) 256-1024.

PUTTING THE TEA IN THAT YARN STORE
That Yarn Store is very excited to announce that we are now carrying loose-leaf tea. The tea comes from the Tao of Tea in Portland , OR , one of the finest tea houses there is. The tea is imported from the various regions of China and Taiwan , and is of the highest quality (but not the highest price!). Our selection includes: Silver Needles (a fine white tea, rich in antioxidants), Jasmine Pearls (a light green tea with jasmine), Nilgiris Blue (breakfast-type black tea from India ), Black Spiral (an oolong), Ayurvedic Herbal Blend and Chamomile. We will be stocking new ones as time goes on, so come in and take some home!
Also, on Thursdays and Saturdays, we will be having a daily sample-- so come in and have a sip and slip a stitch.
Note: We cannot sell tea-as-beverage; the tea is sold by the ounce as loose-leaf tea.

Bicycle Master Plan
The City of Los Angeles will be holding a series of public workshops to discuss the Bicycle Master Plan Update, during the months of February and March 2008.
City of Los Angeles Bicycle Plan provides a guide to develop a Citywide bicycle transportation system. The intent of the Bicycle Plan is to expand bicycle usage through further development of bicycle riding facilities, improvement of existing facilities, and creation of bicycle support programs. Ideally, the bicycle network will increase bicycle usage in place of automobiles.
By increasing the number of cyclists who use the bicycle for transportation, traffic congestion may be reduced and air quality improved. In addition, bicyclists can experience health benefits through increased activity.
As part of the update for the Bicycle Master Plan, the City is inviting the public to attend a workshop. Workshops are scheduled throughout Los Angeles, at four (4) neighborhood locations, during the months of February and March 2008.
Valley Area
Date: February 27, 2008
Location: Braude-San Fernando Constituent Services Center, Conference Room 1B
Address: 6262 Van Nuys Blvd, Van Nuys, CA 91401
Time: 6:30pm-8:30pm
The Bicycle Master Plan Update is being coordinated as a joint project with the City of Los Angeles Department of Transportation and the Department of City Planning. For more information about the Bicycle Master Plan Update meeting, and other aspects of the plan, please access the website at www.labikeplan.org.

LA River Bike Path
Good news for extending the Los Angeles River bike path!
The LA River Bike Path stretch in Elysian Valley (officially "Phase 1C") cleared an important legal hurdle last week. This is an approximately 3 mile stretch extending downstream from Fletcher Drive to Barclay Street (from just above the 2 Freeway to nearly the 110 Freeway.) The stretch currently has an unimproved access road used by bicyclists and pedestrians every day, though the surface is uneven and there are about a half-dozen large dips where street ends drain directly into the river.
In 1999, the city of Los Angeles applied for and received Metro Call for Projects funding for the Elysian Valley (or Frogtown) stretch of the bikeway. The project is to include an undercrossing at Fletcher Drive (to connect with "Phase 1D" upstream of Fletcher), resurfacing, and lighting. The project has been bogged down in legal troubles due to a complicated antiquated easement issue. The Elysian Valley stretch is under a 1920's era easement (awarded to the LA County Flood Control District) which only allows for flood control projects, and, according to city attorneys, was not sufficient for the construction of a bike path. So, even though owners had already seen their property taken away for river channelization many decades ago, the city had to approach each of the 66 individual property owners and negotiate transportation easements.
Most property owners accepted the city's initial compensation offers, but one property owner held out and took the city to court. On Thursday January 10th, in Rabie v. City of Los Angeles, the court's verdict was that the city had to pay Mr. Rabie $7,000 for the easement. This was only a little above the city's last offer of $4,000, and much less than the $200,000 that Rabie was demanding. This verdict allows the bike path project to move forward to finalizing design, and constructing the long-awaited extension of the bike path.
Once this stretch is completed, the Glendale Narrows portion of the bike path will extend an uninterrupted total of 7.1 miles from the Riverside/Zoo Bridge (near Victory Blvd in Glendale) to the Riverside/Figueroa Bridge (near the Arroyo Seco Confluence in Lincoln Heights.)
Joe Linton