David and Goliath Part II? -
Eagles Win Championship Number 7
by Kevin Grace

On a cold Thursday night in early January 2009, the Men's Softball Team from the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie #2188 in Eagle Rock beat the favorite Blue Mooners squad by a score of 7 to 5 for their seventh Thursday night championship. The victory came, centered once again, around the stellar pitching of their perennial MVP Steve Compton.
How unlikely was this victory? Consider this. In 2008, the Eagles beat Acme, another league favorite, in a championship game that was likened to the Americans beating the Russians in Olympic hockey. For the overachieving Eagles, the Acme game was on a scale large enough to draw comparisons of David beating Goliath. And Acme, for the record, has gone on to win several championships in Burbank since then. Believe it or not, the recent victory over the Blue Mooners was an even larger upset.
This season, the Eagles struggled to field a consistent squad and barely qualified for the playoffs. In fact, they were the last seed in a four team playoff, after forfeiting their final 3 games due to a slate of injuries to key players and due to the absence of their coach, Dick "The Dragon Slayer" Saunders. Just prior to these forfeits, news spread in the club that the Eagles' season might be cancelled and it was assumed that they would not make the playoffs. However, when the dust of the regular season settled, the team's final record stood at five wins and five losses, good enough to secure the final playoff spot. This news once again found the Eagle's scrambling to field a team, in the hopes of being competitive and avoiding embarrassment. Always ready for a challenge, they rallied and fielded a team. Now all that stood between them and another championship were a few obstacles. First was the powerful, top seeded Blumpkin Softball squad. Blumpkin had dominated the league ending up with a regular season record of 8 wins and 2 losses. If the Eagles somehow got through the Blumpkin team, they would still have to mix it up with the winner of the always dangerous Lost Boyz and the powerful Blue Mooners squads.
Dedicating the playoffs to Coach Saunders and Eagle pride, the Eagles battled Blumpkin Softball on another cold night, with the Eagles emerging victorious 14 to 9. As always, a mix of masterful pitching, solid defense and clutch offense produced another Eagle unlikely win. Against all odds? Who cares? Impossible? Whatever! They can't win! Really? Well somebody forgot to tell the scrappy Eagles squad. Suddenly, what seemed impossible to most, had this team believing they could win yet again.
In the other preliminary game, the Lost Boyz team was beaten by the Blue Mooner squad, who came from behind in a tight fought battle, winning by a score of 18 to 17. This earned the Blue Mooners, who soundly beat the Eagles 23 to 8 in their only regular season meeting, a shot at the title against the Eagles.
The following Thursday found the Eagles and Blue Mooners going head to head for the coveted championship. In a season that never lacked drama, the Eagles ninth man showed up just prior to game time and the team found themselves asking an injured player to fill in the tenth spot. Thankfully, a healthy tenth player showed up during the first inning, providing a spark of hope for the underdog Eagles. After several innings, the score was the Blue Mooners 2 and the Eagles 0 in a classic pitchers' duel. Unfortunately, the Eagle's bats were no where to be found. Then with a couple of key hits and some aggressive base running, the Eagles managed to manufacture a couple of runs, tying the game at 2. As if on cue, the Blue Mooners answered back with runs of their own retaking the lead 4 to 2. Eventually the scrappy Eagles scored 5 more runs and held on to win 7 to 5. As the team gathered at home plate for the group championship photo, they congratulated one another, basking in the glory of victory and pride of knowing that they made themselves, their fans, their coach and their club proud.
Later that night at the club, the team shared the championship news with Coach Saunders, presenting him with a signed softball and a Championship T shirt. Dick the Dragon Slayer Saunders sat back and reveled in the joy of his victorious team. Glasses were raised and toasts were made as Queen's We Are the Champions rung out in the background.
Other teams the Eagles have faced are often referred to as great, dominant or even unbeatable. Yet even after seven championships, the Eagles rarely receive such praise outside the confines of their aerie. Instead, they all too often are labeled the team that isn't supposed to win. And I bet that's just fine for them. Let the other teams have the accolades. The Eagles, perpetual underdogs, are happy to prove them wrong with each, and every, championship trophy.

New Eagle Scout
Troop 188 has the honor to announce that another one of the boys in the troop has earned his Eagle wings by achieving the rank of Eagle Scout and you might be able to print this information as one of your features publications next month.
Here is some of the information about him and his project:
Lucas Alexander Hidalgo passed his Eagle Board of Review on October 22nd, 2009 and attained the rank of Eagle Scout. He is a registered member of Troop 188 which is chartered by the Eagle Rock Baptist Church.
On September 12th, Lucas' project involved several landscape improvements in an effort to "rejuvenate" the Women's 20th Century Club, a non-profit community organization, as it prepares for Eagle Rock's upcoming centennial celebration in 2011. Among the tasks involved, his troop installed scallop edging around the garden, planted succulents and agapanthus, re-positioned parking stops in the parking lot, created a protective edging around the hose, removed heavy logs, and swept and cleaned the grounds.
Lucas is currently 16 years old and is a junior at Eagle Rock High School (ERHS).
He is active in the Gear-Up mentor program which not only seeks to assist 9th graders stay on track for graduation but also helps prepare them for college. It is a program where he not only has received extensive skills and leadership training, but will now participate in presenting it this coming winter break at Occidental College. As a senior next year, Lucas' plans are to apply to various universities, including USC, Occidental College and UC San Diego, and if accepted, hopes to major in Engineering or Environmental Science, or some area in Technology.
Besides this, some of his interests and awards include Principal's High GPA Honors List, Eagle Scout Award, National Eagle Scout Association Certificate, and a First Degree Black Belt Certificate in Hapkido. He is also an active member or the Order of the Arrow and enjoys practicing martial arts, biking, skating, swimming, and learning to play the electric guitar. Lucas finally joins the rank of Eagle with his two older brothers Alonzo and Lorenzo who attained this rank in 2006 and 2008. His Eagle Court of Honor took place on January 24th, 2010 at the Verdugo Hills Council Auditorium in Glendale. We wish him congratulations and good luck in the future!
Sincerely, Troop 188 Committee

Highland Park Radio Shack Robbed
from Highland Park Senior Lead Officer,
Nina Preciado
“Just want to advise you of the following information: The Radio Shack at 5804 N. Figueroa was hit again last night. Two male black suspects entered the store, brandished handguns, got behind the cash register and took about $655 us dollars. Both suspects have been described as 22 to 23 yrs of age, wearing blue jeans and hooded sweatshirts (they like pulling the hood over their head). They are both about six feet tall and approx 140-150 lbs.
“We do not have a vehicle description from last night's robbery however, we suspect these are the same two suspects that have been committing robberies in our area. In the last robbery (Auto Zone, January 18, 2010) they described a grey Honda or Toyota. Please keep in mind that the car description may vary.
“Please pass this information to your neighbors and keep your eyes and ears open. These suspects seem to like our area so they might be coming back. When driving through the Figueroa corridor, don't get "tunnel visioned". Always lock your doors and look around you...be aware of your surroundings. If you see something suspicious call 911 and advise "possible robbery in progress at....."
“Don't get involved...pleas don't try and be a hero...just be a good witness!!!”

Search for Sammy Ends Sadly

by Tom Topping
Residents of Eagle Rock who may have noticed an incredibly veracious effort to find "Sammy" the lost White/Golden female Terrier/Poodle mix, were saddened to learn that the remains of the dog had been found on the 134 freeway last month.
Running away after being bit by an unleashed pit bull at Eagle Rock Recreation Center in Eagle Rock on Wednesday night (11/25) at around 6:30pm., owners Mark and Shelly put up lost dog posters everywhere, which produced several leads. Sammy was reported seen near San Pascual Stables in South Pasadena and also at Occidental College in Eagle Rock. FOX TV channel 11 even became interested and ran a news story to help find Sammy.
Sammy's owners, Mark and Shelly, randomly met a lady named Renee at the Pasadena Shelter, with Shelly giving her a flyer for Sammy. They received an email about an hour later from Renee who said she was driving on the 134 freeway after meeting Shelly and had happened to see a dog on the side of the freeway at Linda Vista/San Rafael exit that matched Sammy's description. Shelly and a friend drove right out there to see if they could confirm it, but the body was on the far left against the barrier next to the carpool lane, which was without a shoulder, so there was no way to get across the freeway without a huge risk.
Luckily they've had the L.A. Animal Commissioner Irene Ponce' helping them in the dog search, she made a call to the CHP and they stopped all traffic on the 134 westbound for 30 seconds. Shelly and friend then ran across the freeway and scooped the body up with a tarp to carry it to the side.
She knew as soon as she bent down that it was Sammy. The dog looked at peace and her body was in good shape. They and their friends had many tears and hugs last night, but now they have closure. Not knowing what happened to her was driving them all crazy.
There had been an outpouring of good wishes, support and love during their search, and they thank everyone for that. They set up a memorial fund to help the Glendale Humane Society and the Friends of Hermon Dog Park. The following links are provided if you'd like to donate online.
http://www.glendalehumane.org/donate.html
Friends of Hermon Dog Park: http://www.hermondogpark.com/donate.html

Dear Editor
All news publications must maintain a certain level of basic respect and journalistic integrity. Aside from the multiple grammatical errors, the article in question is completely un-objective, bordering on biased.
Did you even think to try to contact the owners of Larry and Wolfgang? I'm assuming your sources know them well enough to refer you to them, seeing as they know the names of the dogs and the fact that they have since installed industrial pens for their pets.
How long did you canvass the neighborhood to find all the neighbors who no longer want to live there after this incident? I know for a fact that the people who share the 3-home complex with the owners do not "all agree" with your mysterious neighborhood denziens who "don't want to live in a neighbor hood with dogs who have a violent history." Possibly because they actually know the dogs and their owners?
My fiance' and I bring our precious 10-pound miniature pinscher puppy over to play with Larry and Wolfgang often and have had no trouble before or after the incident in question. We have many other friends whose dogs have spent ample time with Larry and Wolfgang. The owners are devastated about what happened between these dogs. It was an absolute tragedy and I feel for Mr. Wall. I do not know what I would do were my dog the victim of something similar. However, this does not excuse poor journalism and misrepresentation of individuals whom you did not even bother to interview. Please try to be less libelous in the future. Thank you,
Amy Judd, Mt Washington

Another Killer Dog Tragedy
Lost Family Member
We lost a family member this last weekend. The neighbors dogs got under the fence and came over and killed Our cat. No one should have to see something like this. -
Let's start thinking about our neighbors and their family members. I still can't get over that the neighbors knew about the hole the dogs were digging.
THE DAVIDSON FAMILY

Eagle Rock Kids Raise Funds for Special Needs Dog
On December 5th and 6th, Eagle Rock 8th graders, Carmen Costa and Imani Mitchell, organized a recycling drive at the Rose Bowl Aquatic Center during a swim meet. Over 1,000 swimmers competed in this event. They invited students from Immaculate Heart Middle School to help collect and sort recyclables, and later took the cans and bottles to the Recycling Center located on the 2nd level of the Eagle Rock mall. Since last spring, Imani and Carmen have been raising funds for Marques Briseno, a 6 year old special needs child who faces emotional, social, and educational challenges. The funds are going towards the purchase of a special assistance dog "Boots" for Marques. The Briseno Family lives here in our Eagle Rock community. In total, the girls have raised close to $300.
SPECIAL NOTE: It costs nearly $10,000 to raise and train a special assistance dog. Please visit Marques' website and see how you can help: http://web.mac.com/mrsbriseno/

Dear Sentinel Gentleman,
Although this is definitely a supportive response to your recent "ranting and raving" feature about'contemporary life in N.E.L.A. (with rightly an emphasis on noise-related "rants"), some of the following observations might even augment the seriousness of the problems you mentioned. As a start, I totally agree that heavily amplified outdoor "musical performances" of all kinds too often dominate completely nightlife for everyone in our neighborhoods.
But next, dear Tom, it is certainly not my intent to take all the wind out of your justified complaint about 7:38 a.m. leaf blowing, yet that 22-minute violation of the blow law seems to pale in comparison to the nightly blaring of alarms on Metrolink and Gold Line trains that traverse the residential hearts of our Northeast. More and more and longer and longer the loud alarms coming from these trains can be heard for miles around when they approach intersections. This can happen at all hours of the day, but it is especially disturbing during the night, when streets are mostly deserted anyway. There are all kinds of stop lights, crossing bars and other warning devices at the intersections. Sounding the alarm was obviously intended as an extra accident-preventive measure (just in case ), but activating this device now clearly depends solely on the personal judgment of each individual conductor as to when, how long and how intense.
I have watched conductors on the Gold Line during the day, when trains are often crowded with people wanting fast service to their destinations. Yet, these conductors mostly use their eyes instead of the alarm. They simply slow down a few seconds at intersections and truly-interact with the then busy- street. If-they feel the need for an occasional horn salute, it is always very gentle and short (never the long blasts, too routinely executed at each and every intersection, that wake countless people at night when some uncaring conductors race practically empty trains through the neighborhood).
Another "nocturnal" noise violation that still seems worth mentioning deals with the expansion of the Monte Vista Elementary School in Highland Park, a seemingly endless project that has awakened neighbors for blocks around at 6 a.m. each work day for many months. Naturally, it has been figured that the often loud construction noises should not interfere with schooltime. But what about the neighbors? Aware that construction cannot legally start until 7 a.m., they have complained about it typically of no avail.
And can I mention next the everlasting problem caused by too many inconsiderate people in our neighborhoods who use dogs as burglar alarms? These people don't seem to care that their dogs get equally excited about potential burglars, squirrels or possums at night. The dogs often bark and bark and bark at just any thing that moves!
To end with a rave: A couple of improvements in noise control that more recently have been gratefully noticed in our area appear to be the result of some neighborhood activism and a more responsive new leadership in the N.E. police department. For months, now, we have not experienced the sometimes hours long clamorous helicopter surveillance's from before. Also, the always noisy D.J.'s hired for local parties seem no longer to be able to perform their loud craft much beyond 10 p.m. (whereas before, they easily would continue until deep into the morning of the following day).
We should never forget that elderly and very sick people live and, yes, die among us (and not just only those in the familiar nursing homes, but also others who need peace and quiet and often live just a few doors down from those selfish loud revelers.)
So far and already for a long time, I have only noticed people complaining among themselves about the careless use of alarm systems on trains (especially at night). Might it be possible that your widely-read publication would reach a few caring authorities if this so urgent complaint is brought to their attention?
Your ancient friend,
Hendrik C. Stooker
 

Eagle Rock Centennial Planning in Progress

The planning for the 100 year birthday of Eagle Rock is well on its way, and after the latest meeting held on January 12, 2010, organizers had reason to be optimistic. They'd had a few meetings so far including some really great brainstorming sessions, but on this night, they really got into action.
The first order of business was to read the newly adopted mission statement:
"The Eagle Rock Centennial Steering Committee consists of a group of individuals dedicated to coordinating community efforts for celebrations of a 100 year anniversary.
The Eagle Rock Centennial Steering Committee is ad hoc, and it is not subordinate to any one community organization or group.
The mission of the Eagle Rock Centennial Steering Committee is to act in an advisory capacity to all in the community, and to function as a coordinator between those who choose to celebrate in some way Eagle Rock's 100 year anniversary.
The purpose of this Committee is to: provide information and guidance to those seeking direction and participation; be the primary liaison with Council District 14 and other government offices; seek funding and develop budgets; create and maintain a master calendar of meetings, events, and activities related to the Centennial."
Next, was a recap of the committee's progress so far.
> Web-site domain of EagleRock100th.com has been created
> E-mail address of EagleRock100th@gmail.com has been opened
> Eric Warren and Tom Topping have taken on the project of creating a historical tour
> Renee Dominique is working with Eric Warren and the Councilman's office to create the Centennial Calendar
> The 20th Century Women's Club is planning to host an actual or a local version of the Antiques Road Show
After the recap of progress and of the ideas they've been working on, CD14 Councilman Jose Huizar stopped by for a surprise visit.
The Councilman went over the many ideas his office had been working on, like:
> Sprucing up the Eagle Rock City Hall,
> Putting on a Centennial year kick-off event to be held there,
> Paying for a Centennial year calendar to be printed,
> Getting Centennial street banners installed to hang along Eagle Rock and Colorado Boulevards throughout 2011.
He then presented Eagle Rock native and former Historical Society President John Miller with a certificate honoring his years of community service as well as his 74th birthday, which was on that same day. Huizar's visit, his enthusiasm and his offers of participation were well welcomed by the committee and were contagious as almost immediately, 16 volunteers stepped forward, ready to go to work in their newly formed committees.
The largest committee is publicity and marketing, where they will have Valerie Dawson and Megan Kadish as co-chairs. Josh Kadish and Brandy Chavira also will serve on Publicity and Marketing. Filling out the committee is Eagle Rock Alumni Association board member Anita Garcia, who also volunteered to help with the Facebook site put together by Valerie. (The Facebook site was set up the next day and at last count, had 724 members!)
Tom Topping, who had already volunteered the Website and set up the e-mail and Google Calendar accounts will register with Pay Pal to put donation buttons on the Website. (it's already received its first donation of $20 from Eagle Rock expatriate Paul Fandl)

Councilman Huizar stopped by to inform of the Eagle Rock Centennial planning his office is working on, and to officially recognize Eagle Rocker John Miller for both his years of community service and for his 74th birthday he was celebrating that night. John got a cake, too!

Very important is the fundraising committee, which Esther Monk has stepped forward to chair the "Talent of the Century" fundraiser to be held at the 20th Century Women's Club. Brandy Chavira will work with Esther on that committee. Speaking of fundraising, after a great talk by TERA representative Maura Duval Griffin, ER100th chairman Tom Topping came up with a $20 bill to get the donation ball rolling, followed immediately by Roe Muzingo, who donated a dollar for ever year she'd been in Eagle Rock- $64. The money will be held in a sub account of the Collaborative Eagle Rock Beautiful, who was volunteered by Collaborative leader John Stillion to accept the fiduciary responsibilities. (Gemini John, an Eagle Rock business person, still gets the credit for the first donation, as his $100 was donated for the cause in August of 2007.)
Kaye Beckham volunteered to chair the Schools & Outreach committee and will work with Cristiana Chavira.
Chairing the volunteer committee is Maura Griffin, and Fred Guapo will co-chair the Trees and Greening Committee. Linda Allen and Eric Warren have taken on the logo design, which is vitally important and needs to be completed ASAP. Lani and LaDell Stapp, Rich Monk, Roe Muzingo and Katie Taylor have all volunteered to step up later to serve on the committee that fits them best.
The meeting was capped off by coffee (provided by SWORK coffee shop) and Birthday cake brought by Sue Ann Miller, John's betrothed. The next meeting of the steering committee is scheduled for February 9, 6:45pm, at the Eagle Rock City Hall. All centennial planning meetings are open to any member of the public who is willing to help.

Sempra Energy Foundation Selects Audubon Center at Debs Park for Environmental Grant

The Audubon Center at Debs Park recently received a prestigious Environmental Champions grant from The Sempra Energy Foundation in recognition of its innovative nature education programming. The Audubon Center plans to use these grant monies to expand its nature education programs for predominately Latino neighborhoods to inspire conservation action.
"Audubon California is grateful for Sempra Energy Foundation's support of the Audubon Center at Debs Park and our educational efforts to help the local community learn about the Los Angeles watershed and inspire them to become more active stewards of our local environment," said Graham Chisholm, executive director of Audubon California. "We are pleased to be working with the Sempra Energy Foundation in our local community to produce this sustainable and responsible environmental change."
By educating populations that historically have had little involvement in the conservation movement, the Audubon Center at Debs Park hopes to inspire better environmental stewardship in northeast Los Angeles, and to connect the local population to the natural world. Debs Park provides a bounty of natural habitats that create excellent opportunities to educate children and adults, as well as encourage local residents to protect and conserve green open spaces in their neighborhood.
For example, the Arroyo Seco is an important tributary for the Los Angeles River and its proximity to Debs Park allows students to explore the river and its surrounding wildlife habitats, an opportunity they otherwise may never receive in an urban setting.
The Sempra Energy Foundation's grant program was created earlier this year to provide resources to support exemplary programs in environmental education, restoration, conservation and stewardship and resulted in hundreds of applications from Southern California-based non-profit environmental organizations. The $25,000 grant from the Sempra Energy Foundation will support the Audubon Center's nature-based educational programs.
"When I look at the prior accomplishments of this hard working, mostly volunteer, environmental, grassroots organization, I am genuinely impressed by their accomplishments during times of recession and their continued commitment to provide educational programs and events focused on environmental stewardship," said Frank Urtasun, executive director of the Sempra Energy Foundation. "We look forward to supporting The Audubon Center at Debs Park and helping them expand their mission to make positive impacts to our local quality of life and environment through daily choices."
Last year, the Center served 15,500 children and adults through a combination of 95 school fieldtrips, four summer camp sessions, 55 community events, and unscheduled drop in activities. The Center will use the grant money to increase the number of children served by 20 percent by training and recruiting volunteer instructors and by enhancing their outreach coordination with the various schools and social groups.
The language accessible and culturally sensitive environmental programs at Debs Park serve mostly low-income children and families in predominately Latino communities in northeast Los Angeles. Programs integrate an understanding of the multicultural communities that surround the Center and the socioeconomic context in which they operate. The centerpiece of the Audubon Center's environmental education program is a continuum of fieldtrips delivered in partnership with local schools that are designed to engage children as young as three. A sequential series of educational programs are tailored to keep these same kids engaged, learning and returning to the Center regularly.
Programs are delivered in an outdoor setting and focus on topics like animal adaptations, water conservation, and energy flow in natural systems. The Audubon Center's programs encourage the development of learning techniques that can sustain a lifetime of intellectual development, cultivate creativity and critical thinking, and help children live more physically active lives while teaching scientific principals in an applied environment.
The school-based programs also act as a pipeline for broader community programs. Students are encouraged to bring their parents, grandparents and siblings to the Center and attend bilingual family activities that reinforce the conservation message. Free community programs such as nature walks, arts and crafts, and an outdoor summer film series are designed with families in mind.
"Connecting people to the natural world in their own backyards is demonstrably the best way to inspire broader conservation action and environmental sensitivity in everyday life" said Jeff Chapman, Director of the Audubon Center at Debs Park. "We are excited to reach out to people one at a time, with the knowledge that they in turn can influence so many other people around them."
For more information on the Sempra Energy Foundation's Environmental Champion Awards Initiative, visit www.sempraenergyfoundation.org.
About the Audubon Center at Debs Park
Founded in 2003, the Audubon Center at Debs Park is dedicated to connecting the communities of Northeast Los Angeles with birds and nature.
More information is available at www.audubondebspark.org.

San Pascual Neighborhood Watch Welcomes the Return of SLO Allen
The San Pascual Neighborhood Watch Association surprised their Senior Lead Officer, Mark Allen, with a baby shower upon his return from baby bonding leave at the January 20th meeting.
SLO Allen stated that crime was down this month in his Highland Park - Eagle Rock patrol area. He attributed the low crime rate to neighbors being proactive in reporting concerns to the police. He reminded neighbors to protect their property by not leaving items in their cars at night.
The next San Pascual Neighborhood Watch meeting will take place on Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. at San Pascual Elementary School. The public is invited to attend. The guest speakers will be from Cal Trans regarding the Pasadena Freeway project.
 

San Pascual Neighborhood Watch members welcome back SLO Allen with a baby shower. From left: Richard Simpson, Sergio Gonzalez, Sharon Nakata, Ruben Clingerman, San Pascual Principal Olivia Adams, SLO Mark Allen and Barbara Lopez.
 

Glassell Park Senior Center
Come check out the various activities available to seniors at the Glassell Park Senior Center (3750 N. Verdugo Rd., Los Angeles, CA 90065)!
Yoga Class is offered every Tuesday from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. ($5.00 per month - *please make checks and money orders payable to "City of L.A., Department of Recreation and Parks")
On Monday mornings from 10:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. is the Walking Club. Stay fit and energize with the Walking Club. FREE!
Tuesday and thursday afternoons from 12:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. is the Cards and Games Day. Participate in the excitement of playing cards and games in sociable tournaments. FREE!
All activities available at the Glassell Park Senior Center, 3750 N. Verdugo Rd., Los Angeles, CA 90065!

Come Welcome the MMD'S
to Eagle Rock!
All are invited to come and welcome the new Medical Marijuana Dispensaries to our Eagle Rock community. Instead of the usual persecution, we will instead extend our hand out in friendship to these new businesses and show our gratitude that they chose Eagle Rock in which to operate their collectives.
The event will take place at the Eagle Rock City Hall on Wednesday, February 24th at 7:30pm. Educational materials on Medical Marijuana will be available as well as the latest news concerning this November's ballot initiative to fully legalize Marijuana and finally end Prohibition. For more information please contact us at ; info@cannabisclubsunited.org

Cruising with Mary

Hello again Eagle Rock! After a one month hiatus due to the holidays, the Eagle Rockin' Rodders are back with a vengeance! Despite the briskly cold winter weather, our January cruise-in was successful, with the parking lot nearly full. We got a great start on our charity efforts for 2010, with rousing raffles and unique prizes. Typically, our raffle prizes consist of mostly car and hardware-related items, but recently we have broadened our prizes to include small pieces of jewelry with small real gemstones. Everyone loves the male-oriented prizes, but this change adds a whole new interest in what we are raffling off. In November we had a genuine Tanzanite and Opal ring. For January, we had an Amethyst pointed crystal pendant on a sterling silver chain. Not too bad for a $1 ticket! The proud winner of the Amethyst now has a lovely Valentine's gift for his sweetheart. I would encourage everyone to stop by our cruise-ins and get a few tickets because you never know.
Speaking of raffles and prizes, I owe a big apology to our friends at Pale Fire. Last month when I was thanking our sponsors, I mistakenly named Pale Fire as Cig Zone. My sincere apologies to Pale Fire, as Cig Zone has never sponsored us.
Heartbreaking and sad news in the car world: Last month I was sent a link to the Russo and Steele Car Auction. It was held in Scottsdale, AZ the same weekend as the Barrett-Jackson auctions. While the BJ auction was going on inside a huge building, a tornado hit the fairgrounds at Scottsdale. Many of the thousands of hot rods and vintage vehicles were being housed under those large circus-style tents. When the winds whipped through, two 60 foot tall tents were literally ripped from their moorings, including the ropes and metal posts. All of this blew through the parking area, leaving hundreds of cars with all four windows broken out, roofs, doors, hoods, and more all caved in as well as ripped off antennas and mirrors left hanging. Once the tents did that damage, they blew onto the nearby freeway where traffic was stopped for hours. Many of the convertibles had their tops down and were left exposed to the elements once the tents blew away.
Also, the majority of MoPar items were at Russo and Steele that weekend, not at the BJ auction, so this is another big loss. Overhead photos show poles and pieces of tent lying across cars.
On the upside, there were an estimated 5,000 people there and everyone was evacuated safely and from the reports I read, there were no injuries. But the damages to these vintage and hot rod vehicles was preliminarily estimated to be at 50 million dollars. Yeah I know, everyone has insurance and the venue and promoter have insurance as well. BIG Deal! This does not make up for the fact that most of these cars have a lot of heart, soul, blood, sweat and tears put into them. Some of them were in original, mint condition. It will be interesting for all of us to see how this insurance issue plays out. I can only imagine how devastating this would be to have this rude act of nature happen to one of my cars or motorcycles. My sincere condolences go out to everyone involved.
Until next month, stay warm, and keep on cruising!

Voice in the wilderness
A Better Way to Deal with the Death of a Beloved Pet Dog
by Christopher Nyerges
[Nyerges is the author of "Self-Sufficient Home" and other books, the editor of Wilderness Way magazine, and a teacher of survival skills. He can be reached at Box 41834, Eagle Rock, CA 90041, or www.Christopher Nyerges.com.]
Recently I was driving up Burwood Avenue in Highland Park and saw Prudence Boczarski-Daniel walking her dog Joe. But something was different. Prudence had Joe on a leash, as usual, but his rear feet were in a wheeled cart. "What's this all about?" I wondered as I pulled over and parked.
Prudence told me that Joe had had problems with one of his rear legs for a long time, and that just that week the other leg "gave out." Her 11-year-old beautiful pit bull could no longer walk. Since Prudence knew how much Joe enjoyed his walks, she found a way to continue taking him out by putting his rear end in a wheeled-cart and letting him walk with his front legs. I was laughing at the sight of this, but it was really very sad.
A week later I got a call from Prudence to inform me that Joe had died. She asked me if I would help her with a "fauneral," a funeral for her dog Joe.
The next day, we dug a hole in a non-profit's wildlife sanctuary and buried Joe, who was wrapped in one of Prudence's aprons. This was near an avocado tree that Prudence had recently planted.
On the following Saturday, Prudence invited friends and family of Joe to come to the fauneral. It was a wonderful outdoor event in the wooded hills where you could hardly believe you were in the city.
As guests arrived, they were greeted to the lovely violin of Nicole Deweese, and everyone sat on hay bales covered with old carpets around Joe's gravesite.
Prudence began by sharing some dog poetry, and then everyone got to hear about Joe's long life as Prudence's best friend (next to her husband).
It was a beautiful ceremony with more than a few tears in the crowd. I have been to human funerals that had less feeling.
Prudence had a large poster with photographs of Joe which was set up so everyone could see images of Joe's life. A candle was lit and placed on the large rock over Joe's grave, and mugwort was burning, giving the aroma of a church ceremony. Prudence then had the participants plant a rose and various herbs over Joe's grave. A red brick had the name "JOE" laboriously carved onto its surface. Then, while everyone watered the plants, there was more of the angelic music of Nicole Deweese to close the ceremony.
Afterwards, we discussed how that spot will always be special to Prudence. This embodied a principle of permaculture of replenishing the land. Even with the death of her dog, Prudence Boczarski-Daniel practiced sound ecology in how the body of the dead dog was dealt with, and so provided a living example for others.
Questions on doing your own "fauneral" can be directed to Prudence at PruWeb@aol.com.

Lost Eagle Rock
Today Eagle Rock Plaza is "just part of the community". However, this was not always so. Former resident Paul Ohannesian will present an illustrated talk about growing up in the 50's and early 60's in the neighborhood replaced by the Plaza at 7:00 on Tuesday, March 9 at the Center for the Arts Eagle Rock, 2225 Colorado Blvd. This public meeting of the Eagle Rock Valley Historical Society is free and open to all. Refreshments will be served.
Drawing on family photo albums and home movies, Paul will describe life as seen by him at 5135 El Verano Avenue. The talk will include photos of San Rafael Elementary School, which Paul and his brothers attended and which was demolished in 1960. Images of the 1927 Eagle Rock High School buildings as well as some fascinating panoramic photos of the San Rafael hills before and during the construction of the freeway will also be shown.
A graduate of Eagle Rock High School (1964), Paul studied architecture at the University of Southern California and has always had a strong interest in historic buildings and neighborhoods. Though he moved to Canada in 1970, in some ways Paul's heart will always be in Eagle Rock, of which he has many fond memories

Northeast Detectives Arrest Royal Prestige Scammers
Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) Northeast Division detectives announced the arrest of 46 year-old Mario Lopez and 45 year-old Deyanira Romanos of North Hollywood, who posed as collection agents and threatened a victim with the fear of being arrested in exchange for a large amount of money. Detectives believe that there are additional victims who have yet to come forward and are asking for the public's help.
On December 29, 2009, the victim told detectives that he had ordered merchandise from a high quality cookware company called Royal Prestige and that he had paid for the items in full. The victim also told police that he later received a collection letter demanding payment. When he called the company, he spoke to a woman named "Miriam" who told him that if he refused to pay $2,900 she would issue a warrant and have him arrested. The victim feared he would be arrested and agreed to make payments.
The victim wrote numerous post dated checks and gave the checks to Mario Lopez and Deyanira Romanos (Miriam). The checks were made out to "CAS." The suspects added an "H" to the checks, causing the checks to be written out for CASH. After the second check was cashed, the victim cancelled the other checks and contacted detectives.
The suspects agreed to meet with the victim under the pretense that they would receive replacement checks. During that meeting, undercover officers established probable cause to arrest both Lopez and Romanos.
Both suspects were arrested for grand theft and released after posting $20,000 bail. The District Attorney's office has filed grand theft and extortion charges against the pair.
Anyone with additional information is encouraged to call Northeast Division detective Susan Carrasco at 213-847-4266. During non-business hours or on weekends calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters "LAPD." Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, click on "webtips" and follow the prompts.
2010 Census
Dear Community Stakeholder:
Every 10 years, our Constitution requires the federal government to make an accurate and complete count of all of its residents. In an effort to ensure that the City of Los Angeles achieves a complete and accurate count for the upcoming 2010 Census, I invite you to join the Council District 14 Complete Count Committee. This committee will meet several times until June and will be comprised of community stakeholders representing various sectors: media, education, business, faith-based, and community-based organizations.
It is estimated that the City of Los Angeles was undercounted by approximately 76,800 people in 2000. The City of Los Angeles lost approximately $206 million dollars in federal funding for services and programs as a result of this undercount. Having a complete count is important as it impacts matters such as:
* Forecasting future transportation, educational, homeless services, and housing needs for all segments of the population, including people in poverty
* Designing public safety strategies
* Designing facilities for people with disabilities, the elderly, and children
* Establishing fair market rents and enforcing fair lending practices
* Assessing the potential for spread of communicable diseases.
I ask that your agency commit one representative to attend monthly meetings beginning in January 2010 through June 2010 to help raise awareness and drive participation by helping disseminate U.S. Census literature, encourage program participants to submit their questionnaires, and educate all constituents in Council District 14 on the importance of being counted. The first meeting of this Committee is scheduled for Wednesday, January 20, 2010 at 6:00pm to 7:00pm in my Northeast office located at 2035 Colorado Blvd., Los Angeles, Ca 90041. Please RSVP by contacting my office at (323) 254-5295.
I look forward to your participation.
Sincerely, José Huizar
Councilmember, 14th District

Get Involved with GPNC!!!!!!
Take pride on your neighborhood and be part of the changes and improvements In your community!
Nominations and Elections are coming up for the Glassell Park Neighborhood Council. You can vote and run for the governing board. The election will take place on Thursday, April 29, 2010. You are eligible if you live, work, or own real property within the GPNC boundaries. For additional information go to: www.glassellparknc.com, also check www.lacityneighborhoods.com and check under elections, or contact the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment at (323) 485-1360
 

European Painting...
a family business since 1978
European painting is a family owned and operated business that services all of California. Starting as solely a residential painter, George Saris began concentrating on the southern Californian market. He quickly became known for providing quality work, charging reasonable prices and above all presenting his customers with honest suggestions.
George soon took his company into the commercial sector. European Painting began contracting work for most southern Californian cities, school districts, all federal government agencies and apartment management companies.
The coming years brought growth and change. The need for a larger work force was met and a second office was opened in northern California. A full crew now operates this office. While accomplishing this, George was also focused on strengthening the company locally. Being a long-time Eagle Rock resident, the company started heavily marketing themselves in the area & surrounding cities.
European Painting provides free estimates for any residential and/or commercial property. Not only do we provide interior & exterior painting services but also: drywall & plaster repair, water damage, power washing cement, house washing & apartment rehabilitation & maintenance.
Call them toll free at:
(877) 913-2696, or locally at: (323) 913-2696

The Legend of Pancho Barnes to Benefit Heritage Square
Thursday, February 25, 4:30 and 7:30 pm at Laemmle's Playhouse 7 Theater,
673 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena
Two special benefit screenings of The Legend of Pancho Barnes and the Happy Bottom Riding Club, a 64-minute feature documentary about the extraordinary life of Florence "Pancho" Barnes (1901-1975): adventurer, stunt pilot, bar owner, and one of the top female aviators of the 20th century. Born into one of Pasadena's most prominent families, Pancho was the granddaughter of Thaddeus Lowe, a famed Civil War balloonist, co-founder of CalTech and builder of the famed Mount Lowe Railway. Yet Florence refused to conform to Victorian high society and its rules. Her gender-bending antics broke all stereotypes. This Pasadena minister's wife was once quoted as saying "Flying makes me feel like a sex maniac in a whorehouse with a stack of hundred dollar bills." Her feats in aviation were no less exhilarating, from becoming Hollywood's first woman stunt pilot, to breaking Amelia Earhart's speed record in 1930, to hosting the best pilots in the world at her "Happy Bottom Riding Club" guest ranch in the 40's and 50's. A stunning force of nature, Pancho lived wildly, fully, and without an ounce of fear.
The film features interviews with astronaut Buzz Aldrin, test pilots Bob Cardenas, Bob Hoover and Chuck Yeager, and biographers Lauren Kessler and Barbara Schultz. Narrated by Tom Skerritt, with Kathy Bates as the voice of Pancho. Directed by Amanda Pope, and written and produced by Nick Spark. Produced in affiliation with KOCE-TV, PBS of Orange County California.
Reception: In conjunction with these screenings, there will be a reception beginning at 5:00 pm in Vroman's Bookstore, adjacent to the theater, featuring an appearance by the filmmakers at 6:00 pm.

Tickets:
$15 - 4:30 pm Matinee Screening
$20 - 7:30 pm Evening Screening.
This event is expected to sell out, reserve your seats today.
Purchase tickets online at www.legendofpanchobarnes.com (click on the "Screenings" link and then click on the Pasadena Screening button to be directed to Paypal). Please note that a $1.00 surcharge per ticket will be added for online purchases.
For telephone reservations and information, please call Heritage Square Museum at 323.225.2700, ext. 221.
All tickets (both online and telephone purchases) will be held at "Will Call" for pickup immediately prior to your selected screening.
Proceeds from these special screenings of The Legend of Pancho Barnes and the Happy Bottom Riding Club benefit Heritage Square Museum, the KOCE-TV Foundation, and Pasadena Museum of History. Ticket purchases are non-refundable.
The name, image and likeness of "Pancho Barnes," as well as "The Happy Bottom Riding Club" are trademarks of Pancho Barnes Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Used with Permission.

Coming Up at Future Studio Gallery
Vantage Point
Opening Sat. Feb. 13, 2010, and part of NELAart.com's Second Saturday Gallery Night, is an exhibition of photography by Martin J. Waterman. Opening is from 7 to 10 pm at the Future Studio Gallery, home of Chicken Boy, 5558 N. Figueroa St., Los Angeles (Highland Park) 90042.
Artist's Statement:
I see a still photograph as a way of suspending time. Not as a time machine per se, although photographs are invaluable as a means of preservation.When I say I use a photograph to suspend time I mean that a still photograph gives one the means to stop and immerse oneself in the physical and emotional responses that the image provokes. I find that the images I capture always speak to me on different levels, and the fact that they are still images provides me with the luxury to take the time necessary to let the emotions of curiosity, wonder, sadness, joy, and the other responses my pictures evoke, wash over me. I hope you enjoy my work, and that you find it provocative. My work has been exhibited in the Riverside Art Museum, the Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery, the Santa Fe Art Colony, the Palos Verdes Center for the Arts, and in numerous gallery shows and exhibits.
In March:
On Wednesday, March 10 at 7 pm, we will host a presentation by Peter Clothier based on his new book, Persist: In Praise of the Creative Spirit in a World Gone Mad with Commerce. It is Free! at the Ebell Club, 131 S. Ave. 57, LA 90042
This session addresses the predicament of creative people of all kinds—artists, writers, actors, musicians, dancers--in a cultural environment in which success is most often measured in commercial terms, and where it is increasingly difficult for even the most talented to get a hearing. In this context, we'll be thinking specifically about the benefits for the artist of a disciplined mind and a commitment to practice—how to acquire and develop these qualities, and how to apply them to creating a life in art that will survive the vicissitudes of an art world dominated by market concerns.
A former art school Dean (Otis Art Institute, Loyola Marymount University) and a widely-published art writer, Peter brings the perspective of long experience and an empathy for the creative passion. You can find out more about him at PeterClothier.com.
Books will be available.
More information available at futurestudiogallery.com and chickenboy.com

EAGLE ROCK NEWS

At the 2010 Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce Installation, photgrapher Alen Yap captures an emotional moment as Michael Nogueira and Kaye Beckham present Collaborative Eagle Rock Beautiful leader John Stillion the Chamber of Commerce’s “Presidential Prestigious Award” for community service. Councilman Jose Huizar was also there and presented Mr. Stillion with an official “Los Angeles City Council Resolution” recognizing him for his community beautifcation efforts.

New Artist for Hermon Dog Park Art Project Named
The Board of Directors of the support organization, Friends of Hermon Dog Park (FHDP), proudly announce their selection of El Sereno artist Ismael Cazarez and his project "River Dogs," to be funded with FHDP's 2009 award from the City of Los Angeles Community Beautification $10,000 Matching Grant and placed in Hermon Park in the Arroyo Seco.
The final decision was made January 23 after interviews with two finalists by a Selection Committee. That committee was comprised of the FHDP Board of Directors, local artists, an artist consultant, gallery owner, public arts advocate, local high school art student, community advocates, local art teacher, school principal, and representatives from the City's Office of Community Beautification and the Department of Recreation and Parks.
The selection process began September 27 of last year with a call for artists, graciously distributed by the respected Arroyo Arts Collective. After an afternoon site walk-through, 21 unique projects were submitted for consideration.
Cazarez, who has been creating art for more than 40 years, earned his Master's Degree in studio arts in 1982 at Cal State L.A. He began as a muralist back in the 1970's, but now does mostly sculptural works.
"River Dogs" will portray two slightly larger-than-life dogs sculpted completely from natural river rocks. The artist grinds the rocks to fit together like puzzle pieces so that there are no gaps between them. Each stone is glued into rebar connected to a rebar skeletal infrastructure. Different size stones create the eyes, ears and other body parts, coloring and textures. Each sculpture will have an anti-graffiti coating.
One dog is positioned to play, the other dog's front legs are stretched up onto a boulder with a more regal pose. The artist locates the installation at the top of the grassy knoll above the Hermon Dog Park near the Avenue 60 side, giving definition to the Hermon Dog Park area. The natural river rocks, iconic to the length of the Arroyo Seco area, will be collected by the artist from a variety of locations throughout California symbolizing how our love of dogs is universal and can bring us together.
The committee found Cazarez's work to be unique, innovative, honoring of the community, and low maintenance.
We will be starting through the City approvals process right away.

Off Duty Deputy in Fight on N. Figueroa Street
Two Injured, One in Custody
from LAPD online
An off duty Los Angeles County Sheriffs Deputy was injured along with another woman after the two fought outside a local bar.
On January 27, 2010, at around 1:20 a.m., two women near the Little Cave cocktail bar at Avenue 60 and North Figueroa Street got into an argument that escalated to a physical fight on the sidewalk. A female Hispanic, an off duty Deputy, 29 years of age, and another female Hispanic, 25 years of age, were both injured during the altercation. The off duty Deputy was cut several times with an unknown sharp object and the other woman was shot with a handgun. The Deputy walked to fire station 12 on Figueroa for assistance, which is just across the street from the Little Cave.
A 20-year-old relative of the deputy, Taylor Olivarez, was arrested for Attempted Murder. He is being held on $500,000 bail. A handgun belonging to the deputy was recovered at the scene. Both women were transported to local hospitals and are expected to make full recoveries
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Northeast Area Detectives, Detectives Emilio Garay or Michael Pulley at 213-847-4272. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crimestoppers at 800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. Tipsters may also go to LAPDOnline.org, and click on "webtips."

Betty Jean Asa
Betty Jean was born in Estherville Iowa to Joseph Albert Merkle Sr., and Grace Evelyn Merkle. They lived in Iowa for four years before moving to Chicago, Illinois. In 1955 the family moved to California, from Chicago, for the warm weather.
Jean did waited tables for a few years before she acquired her real estate license in 1961. She worked in the real estate business until she married Oran W. Asa, owner of the Northeast Newspapers.
They were married in Santa Barbara, California on October 20th, 1972. From that point on she was busy with the Newspaper business and also did a great deal of community work including work with the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce, Kiwanis, The 20th Century Women's Club, and the Soroptimist Club.
Jean and Oran traveled quite a bit, but the highlight of their travels were their 2 trips to China with the California Newspaper Publishers Association, including a trip to Mainland China in 1977, and a trip to Taiwan in 1978.
Jean and Oran sold the Northeast Newspapers and retired in 1991. They remained in Eagle Rock, California until Oran's death in 2002. Jean then moved to Bullhead City, Arizona where she lived until she moved to Lancaster, California to be cared for by her niece.

Kiwanis International Honors Northeast Community Leaders

Ann Walnum and Scott Wilson were recognized with the Distinguished Service Award by the Kiwanis International -Cal/Nev/Ha Division for outstanding community service to the Northeast Los Angeles Community

Kiwanis International (California/Nevada/Hawaii) recently honored two Northeast community leaders with the Distinguished Service Award. Kiwanis Club of Eagle Rock honored Scott Wilson for all of his work in the Greater Los Angeles Communities through his involvement as founder of North East Trees. He was credited for planting over 50,000 trees, designed and built over 35 mini-parks, trails, street and access gateway improvements, implemented innumerable landscape improvement projects including habitat restoration along the Los Angeles River and through Los Angeles County.
In addition, Scott engaged, trained and employed hundreds of local youth in environmental stewardship.
Ann Walnum was honored by the Kiwanis Club of Greater Highland Park for her countless hours of time to help nearly every organization in Highland Park. Ann sits on the Debs Park Advisory Board, Mt. Washington Association, Hillside Federation, Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Council, Lummis Day Community Foundation and Highland Park Heritage Trust. Ann also teaches violin to young soccer players after school for Anahuak Youth Sports Association. For over twenty years, she has championed the cause to support and now save LA's first museum the Southwest Museum in Northeast Los Angeles.
Ruby de Vera
 

Eagle Rock's Urban Forest Growing!
If you live in Eagle Rock you have probably noticed how mature trees add character to our most beautiful streets. Just a couple examples are: the cathedral-like Camphors on Mount Royal; stately Deodar Cedars on Fair Park Avenue, fall color of the Liquidambars on Oak Grove, and the romantic and sinuous California Sycamores on La Loma Road. On hot summer days, the temperature on those shaded streets is heavenly compared to on neighboring streets.
In this climate, shade is a catalyst for streetlife. Well-chosen trees also create a sense of place. At this moment, the Evergreen Pears lining Colorado Boulevard are in full bloom. They were planted in the 1960s in a community-wide effort spearheaded by Mrs. Thomas E. Snow and Doris Thielen of the Women's Twentieth Century Club; and Scott Wilson, who would eventually found Northeast Trees.
Inspired by our local history of urban forestry, and in anticipation of the Centennial of Eagle Rock in 2011, the Eagle Rock Urban Forest Collaborative has formed. This group will be dedicated to the maintenance and development of an urban forest in Eagle Rock. Fred Guapo, co-chair of the Eagle Rock Urban Forest Collaborative, writes, "Our present day urban forest started 100 years ago when the developers came to town and started building. We are organizing and expanding the Urban Forest."
The Eagle Rock Urban Forest Collaborative will be working with the Collaborative Eagle Rock Beautiful and other local organizations.
Volunteers are needed to participate in a survey of the condition of existing treewells on our major Boulevards. Planting will take place in 2011, Eagle Rock's 100th anniversary year. To learn more about or to join the Eagle Rock Urban Forest Collaborative, please contact:
Urbanforestcollaborative@gmail.com

MTA Hires $11,000,000 Un-Qualified Foreign Corporation-
Contractor acts
quickly to correct
by Tom Topping
As reported in the Glendale News-Press, InfraConsult (not IntraConsult as the News-Press had it) has won the 11 million dollar contract to help finance a number of projects, including the controversial underground extension of the Long Beach (SR-710) Freeway. However, a quick investigation showed that INFRA CONSULT LLC, a Delaware LLC was not qualified by the California Secretary of State to do business in the State of California.
With California unemployment at a historic low, the MTA board hired an out of state company who was not a registered business with the State or the City of Los Angeles.
After some inquiries by the Boulevard Sentinel, InfraConsult moved quickly to correct that, sending this message in an e-mail at 1:12 p.m. (Tues. Feb. 2) the next day, I'm sure after braving the lines at the Secretary of State's office and at the Los Angeles city clerk's office downtown:
"InfraConsult LLC is a Delaware Limited Liability Company. We have filed registration in California with the Secretary of State, and we have also filed with the City of Los Angeles."
What's next MTA? Will you be holding a job fair in crime ridden Juarez, Mexico, to recruit your next batch of executives?

REP. BECERRA REACTS TO THE PRESIDENT'S STATE OF THE UNION ADDRESS
Representative Xavier Becerra (CA-31), Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus and senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, released the following statement responding to the President's State of the Union address:
"The President could not have been clearer—our economy can not fully recover and our fiscal house will not be in order until those Americans who seek work can find it. By boosting small businesses, investing in our country's infrastructure and providing quality, affordable health care to working families we will reduce long-term deficits and set the conditions for a sustained economic recovery. The House has acted by passing a robust job creation package, and we will work with the Senate to get this job done.
A year ago the President walked into the White House with an economy in shambles and a middle class that has been working harder, but falling further behind. The previous administration drove us into the ditch with reckless policies that increased deficit spending, eliminated financial regulations and ignored long-term problems. President Obama has worked with Congress to right the ship, change course and deliver a better future for all Americans. We have made steady progress, but there is much more work to be done in 2010."

re: Eagle Rock /Highland Park DASH Proposed Route Changes
The LADOT DASH wants to eliminate a very important section of the Eagle Rock/ Highland Park DASH. The section is from Townsend Avenue on Colorado, east to Figueroa, south to Yosemite and west back to Townsend. There are lots of apartments, senior apartments and homes adjacent to that section of the route. The way the route has been for many years has been perfect. The DASH will not save money, but lose money to the MTA bus 181. The 181 takes too long and costs more money.
The proposed shortening of the route, eliminating the eastern Eagle Rock loop and going straight down Townsend, from Colorado directly to Yosemite is a bad idea. The route as it is goes to restaurants, schools, Von's, the Post Office, drug stores and connects to other transit routes. Getting off the bus at Townsend Avenue brings one nothing but homes! Please call and write, ASAP, LADOT DASH- 213-445-0880; 201 N. Los Angeles Street, Space 18b, L.A., CA, 90012. Also, call city councilmen Jose Huizar at (213) 473-7014, and Ed Reyes at (213)-473-7001.
Tell them to leave the route as it is now!!!Andres J. Duran,

Looking Back,

by Joe Walker

100 years ago this month-February-1910
The Highland Park Baptist Church designs were laid out and plans for its construction were announced on Feb. 15, 1910. Designed by architect Norman Marsh, it still stands today looking almost exactly the way it did 100 years ago. Marsh went on to design Hollywood High School, Pasadena High School, and laid out the unique canals and other interesting areas of the beach side community of Venice, CA. The article announcing the construction said, "the building will occupy a site of sixty-two feet frontage in a choice part of Highland Park"
Anyone familiar with the Garvanza area, particularly the area from North Figueroa and Meridian all the way down Figueroa to Ave 58, where the senior citizens area is, Garvanza Park, Garvanza Elementary School and Luther Burbank Middle School may be surprised to hear that 100 years ago, 350 local residents proposed this entire area to be made a park. While there were housing scattered throughout the area, the plan was to buy up the vacant land and put park space in between it. That may be why there are some odd looking gaps in that area, such as the "Jungle House" at 116 N. Ave 63, smack dab in the middle of a parking lot, a big empty space from where Jack in the Box is to the senior center is, etc. All that is left of this great planned park is the newly refurbished Garvanza Park at Ave. 63 and Meridian
80 years ago this month-February-1930
Hundreds of thousands of commuters slow down every day as they maneuver through the northbound Pasadena Freeway under the series of tunnels that were first discussed 80 years ago this month, in February, 1930. The plan called for three "single bore tunnels", 46 feet across for a total length of 11,000 feet to be dug under Elysian Park. The Board of Public Works was allocated $600,000 for the work, and estimated it would take 450 days to complete at it's Feb 16, 1930 meeting.
70 years ago this month-February-1940
The steep hillside at 3376 Griffin Ave., Monteceito Heights, today is the site of a very old commercial building. In February, 1940, it was the site of a terrible tragedy where many lives came together in an instant. Donald Fehrenschild, 17, a student at Lincoln High School, was bored after school and looked out of his window at 3424 Pasadena Ave., (now the backside of Hillside Elementary). He claimed he saw some doves and retrieved a .22 caliber rifle and started shooting at them. At the same time, 11 year old Marilyn Bunker, of 3537 Griffin Ave and her 8 year old brother, Bradley, were playing with other children at the same place. One bullet killed young Marilyn and wounded her brother. The children ran home to call the police at the same time that Fehrnenschild ran to the site of the shooting and saw that he had killed the young Miss Bunker. He called the police also, and was arrested for Marilyn's murder. Several weeks later, at his sentencing for voluntary manslaughter, he admitted that he deliberately shot at the kids, but never meant to kill them. He only wanted to scare them away from playing on the hill. He was sentenced to the Preston School For Boys in Northern California. The house where the Bunker family lived still stands and the hillside where this incident took place is unchanged since 1940.
75 years ago this month-February-1945
The Ogg family home at 5244 El Rio, Eagle Rock, was one of great celebration this month, in 1945, when word came from the Philippines that James T. Ogg, a graduate of Eagle Rock High School and Cal Tech student was among the many prisoners found alive after nearly four years in a Japanese prison camp. An electrical engineering major, he had enlisted in 1940 and was with the 93rd Bombardment Battalion under General Douglas McArthur when the Japanese invaded the island territory in December, 1941.
On Feb 19, 1945, Another Eagle Rock family, the Sharp's at 5143 Argus Drive, got less encouraging news when they were notified that their son, paratrooper 1st Lt. William Sharp of the 82 Airborne was reported missing in Germany. The family last heard from William in a letter they received on Jan 11, 1945.
Not all sad military related news came from overseas. On Feb 22, 1945, a funeral was held for Marine Sgt Gunther Hunrichs, 22, son of Mr. and Mrs. Oskar Hunrichs of 1577 Glen Aysla, Eagle Rock. Hunrichs was a turret gunner on marine torpedo bombers and was killed in a crash in San Diego. He was buried with full military honors at Forest Lawn, Glendale.
Jenny Corns of 328 Branch St., Highland Park, prayed a lot in October, 1941, when her daughter, 2n Lt. Edith Corns, 30, an army nurse sailed for her assignment in the Philippines. She was horrified to hear that her daughter was taken prisoner there during the Japanese invasion, but never lost hope that Edith would survive. She got one letter in 1943. Corns is mentioned in the 2003 book, "We band of angels: the untold story of American nurses trapped on Bataan"
60 years ago this month-February-1950
The Casa-Lu-Ann Motel at 1045 Colorado Blvd. still stands as an example of Route 66 motels. On February 19, 1950, this motel was sold by Mr. and Mrs. Henry Lukes to Mr. and Mrs. Paul Hamilton and Mrs Ella V. Hammond for the princely sum of $105,000. That is about $1.3 million in today's prices.
50 years ago this month-February-1960
On February 13, 1960, ground breaking ceremonies were held and construction begun on the $1.5 million Eagle Rock Lanes, a 36 lane bowling alley which would include a restaurant, a cocktail lounge, a billiard room, and a children's nursery. It occupied 4 acres until it was replace by the U.S. Post Office at Figueroa St. and Colorado Blvd. (this writer never remembers a children's nursery in the bowling alley!).
In the same month, the former Theme Hosiery building, a closed factory, at 2910 San Fernando Road, Glassell Park, was in the process of being converted to a Catholic High School. After extensive renovation, Pater Noster High School would open in the fall of 1960 in that former manufacturing company.
Questions of comments on this column should be addressed to: joe_walker_2000@yahoo.com

9-1-1 vs

1-877-ASK-LAPD

for Cell Phone Users
Although we are all taught to call 9-1-1 for police emergencies, if you use a cell phone and are in Los Angeles, you should always use the 877-ASK-LAPD number. Although it is for non-emergencies, it will get you to an LAPD officer much quicker than dialing 9-1-1. If there is an emergency, this number will get you directly to the LAPD dispatcher instead of first routing you through to the Highway Patrol.
If you have a regular ground line telephone (old school) it is still best to dial 9-1-1.
1-877-ASK-LAPD - program it into your cell phone NOW! Also, for a direct connection to the Los Angels Fire Department, program in 213-485-6180.

Guess Who's Coming to Dinner with TERA?

by Mary Tokita

TERA, aka The Eagle Rock Association, is launching a new event this spring that showcases our community's passion for connection over a great town. "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?" debuts here the evening of Saturday, March 27.
"Guess Who" begins at 5 p.m. with a festive pool side reception with Eagle Rock's power couple, Michael and Eugenie Nogueira, leaders of the Chamber of Commerce and the 20th Century Women's Club, respectively. After appetizers, refreshments and live entertainment, revelers will head off to one of 18 dinner parties at homes throughout Eagle Rock.
TERA is publishing a brochure to allow prospective attendees to preview the parties and select four options to attend. (TERA and past members will receive theirs in the mail; you can also preview online at www.tera90041.org.)
While no one dinner choice can be guaranteed, guests will discover that, like TERA's home tours, the event will celebrate Eagle Rock's eclectic character with a diverse range of architectural settings, then add great food and fellowship. Some dinners will be casual and cozy; others have dress codes. Menus range from steak and potatoes to vegetarian and international cuisine. The parties vary in size from 6 to 30 guests.
Choices will include a Brazilian meal by restaurateur Fred Eric (Fred 62, Tiara Café, Vida), Indian food and belly dancing in the Allen family art studio, al fresco grilling with Realtor and former cook Tracy King, a Colombo's catered affair at a Beverly Hills-style mansion, and a Mardi Gras celebration at the home of KCET's Val Zavala and artist Mark Greenfield.
"Guess Who" follows several years of TERA's annual Eclectic Eagle Home Tour, a day long event that raised the group's operational expenses, while promoting our town's charm and character. Why the change? "When we started 10 years ago, home tours were a novelty. But as the years passed, everybody started doing them, creating more competition for a limited audience," said Rich Puz, TERA board member and former home tour chair. "And, to be honest, we were all just exhausted. Tours may return here someday, but we needed something else to see us through the next few years."
Inspiration came from Bob Gotham, a longtime activist who became TERA's president last summer. "My partner Mike and I loved the AIDS Service Center's Big Night Out. Serving a home-cooked dinner to strangers takes a certain chutzpah, but with the right people and a higher purpose in mind, it's a great experience to share."
Gotham thought that the concept was a perfect vehicle for Eagle Rock. "Everyone enjoys good food and fun, whether they've lived here for generations or just moved to town," he said.
The biggest challenge was finding enough willing hosts. Puz circulated a flyer at the ER Music Festival, and other board members reached out to friends and previous home tour participants. Gotham and Past President Maria Nazario signed on. By December, a critical mass was reached and the show was on.
"If you join us, be sure to thank the hosts for their courage and aplomb," added Gotham. "They made our event possible and most are doing it out of pure love for TERA and our town. These 19 families are the heart and soul of Eagle Rock, and we're proud to have their active support."
Tickets for "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" are $75; $40 for the reception only. First-time membership in TERA includes a ticket for $85.
Proceeds of the evening will support TERA's all-volunteer-driven projects and activities. TERA is a 501-C3 organization and tickets will be tax-deductible as allowed by law. For tickets and more information, visit www.tera90041.org, email TERAdinner@TERA90041.org, or call at TERA at (323) 799-1190.

CENTER FOR THE ARTS, EAGLE ROCK
IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE...
"REBUS RECONSTRUCTURING"
Opening Reception Saturday February 20, 2010 7 pm - 10 pm
Panel Discussion 4-6 pm: Art and Architecture: Merging the contemporary and the historical" Panelists: Gwynne Pugh (Pugh + Scarpa), Isotta Poggi (Getty Research Institute), John O'Brien, Cielo Pessione
Curated by John O'Brien and Cielo Pessione
Participating Artists: Wendy Adest, Nena Amsler, Daniel Brodo, Matty Byloos, Jamison Carter, April Durham, Samantha Fields, Margaret Griffith, Mary Addison Hackett, Erika Lizée, Mara Lonner, Meg Madison, Nancy Monk, John O'Brien, Cielo Pessione, Rebecca Ripple, Steve Roden, Joe Santarromana, Jose Sarinana, Elizabeth Saveri, Telemachus Studios, Carolee Toon, Shirley Tse, Hoang Vu
and Andre Yi.
This is an exhibition of 25 contemporary LA visual artists who participated in collaboration with Sistema Museo in the Umbria region of Italy. Artwork was selected or created by these artists to travel and be exhibited within the existing archeological fragments on view in the Archeological Museum of Amelia in summer 2009. Placing their artwork within these archeological remains provided artists with a unique opportunity to find a significant and unusual setting for their work and to interact with these important art historical sources. Rebus Reconstructuring documents the results of this process by displaying the selected artwork and photographic images of the artworks within the museum collections.
John O'Brien and Cielo Pessione's curatorial premise is intended to create bridges between the contemporary and the historical, between Los Angeles and Umbria. This exhibition cycle allowed the Archeological Museum of Amelia a chance to see how contemporary L.A. artists might interact with their historical collections. They were interested in the way this process puts their artifacts and historical holdings into a new and unexpected light. The curators and artists were interested in what happens when contemporary art is placed in proximity to objects and images from antiquity.
The March 13, 2010 panel discussion about "Art and Architecture: Merging the contemporary and the historical" is particularly relevant at CFAER, a historically listed 1914 Carnegie Library Building, that was itself transformed into a multicultural community center for arts and culture.
Center for the Arts, Eagle Rock is a nonprofit 501(c) 3 arts programming organization. The mission of the Center is to provide innovative and multicultural arts programming to the communities of North East Los Angeles. This program is funded by a generous grant from the Los Angeles County Arts Commission
Center for the Arts, Eagle Rock
2225 Colorado Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90041
323.226.1617
www.centerartseaglerock.org