Jack and Denny Smith Library

The LAUSD broke ground at the Mt. Washington School last month to begin construction of the Jack and Denny Smith Library and Multi-purpose room.
At top right is an artists rendition of the Jack and Denny Smith Library and multi-purpose room.
The real story is about a community that worked hard for ten years and never gave up.

Jack Smith was a Mt. Washington resident, author and columnist for the L.A. Times. The ground breaking ceremony was moved up so that his widow could attend the ceremony. Unfortunately, she died only days before the groundbreaking was held.
At left are brothers, Doug and Curt Smith, standing in front of a poster of their parents, Jack and Denny, as they expressed their appreciation for what the community had done.
A special acknowledgement has to go to Warren Christianson and Liz Herron who spearheaded the effort.

ERNC Land Use Committee
Approves Philippine Parking

by Tom Topping
Oscar Jornacion, owner of the Philippine Village Center, received advisory approval with conditions last week from the Eagle Rock Neighborhood Council Land Use & Planning Committee, to allow a dance/banquet hall and church to operate there with less than the required number of parking spaces. Mr. Jornacion reasoned that since the church and dance/banquet hall would not be operating at the same times of day, there was actually no need for the extra parking spaces. Although three of his neighbors were there to oppose him, his concept of shared parking seemed to satisfy the committee, who voted unanimously to approve it.
The dance/banquet hall, church and other uses at the "Philippine Village Center" are such that the city required 101 parking spaces be on site. The center has only 67 spaces. Krista Kine, planning deputy for Councilman Antonio Villaraigosa attended the meeting and suggested that a condition be added to the approval. She said that requiring an automatic review to be conducted every six months would protect the adjacent neighbors from any adverse affects a shortage of parking might cause.
The "Philippine Village Center" has quite an infamous history. It was the center of community controversy in the fall of 2002, when Mr. Jornacion and other Filipino Community leaders made an unsuccessful effort to acquire an official city designation of a section of Eagle Rock as the "Philippine Village". Many long time community members were very upset when they heard about this effort. At three community meetings held to discuss the proposal, emotions ran dangerously high before a representative, from then Councilman Nick Pacheco's office, suggested a compromise plan to officially designate the "Philippine Village Center" as the "Philippine Village Cultural Center" with a City Council motion and an official L.A. City street sign.
The "Philippine Village Center" building was once the area's local Blue Chip stamp redemption center. It is a huge building for the part of town it is in, and has been housing a publishing business, newspaper printing presses, an auto insurance, an adult day care facility, a travel agency, a bank, a radio station, and other rental office spaces, as well as the church and dance/banquet hall that is now in question. The building has been used for these purposes for years.
You are probably wondering, "Why is it up for approval now if it's been in operation for some time?" The answer is that the church and dance/banquet hall had no permits. They were operating without any. On November 25, 2002, shortly after the second "Village Movement" meeting in mid November, City of Los Angeles issued an order to comply for illegal use and occupancy and non-approved use of the building. The case has been going since then.
Oscar Jornacion is a remarkable man. He has come from the Philippines and created quite an empire for himself. His is an educated person and quite a businessman and entrepreneur. The only thing that ever seems to stop him is his ignorance of American culture and sensibilities, and underestimating them when it comes to a conflict. Such was the case in the "Village Movement" and also with a man he had working for him.
Shortly after the community meetings were held to discuss "Philippine Village", many Eagle Rock businesses were approached to advertise in a new local paper. The "City Times" was a size and look very similar to this paper. Oscar hired a retired professional American journalist, Bill Singer, to edit the paper, and promised him many things, according to Bill. After a couple of issues of the paper were printed, Bill found out that many of his editorial decisions were being overridden by Oscar and slowly the promises and the relationship began to sour.
While Mr. Singer was working for Oscar, he became very familiar with the goings on there. He often called me to update me on the latest activities of Oscar and the Philippine Village. I would not dare repeat the things he told me without proof, for fear of being sued, but this is the scenario that set the stage for future complaints being made to the city, the California State Environmental Protection Agency, and the State Labor Commission among others.
As the "City Times" wound to a close, Mr. Singer felt he was owed several thousand dollars, and apparently harbored some vengeful feelings against Mr. Jornacion. Singer thought he had been treated unfairly.
Singer probably complained to everybody he could think of, and yes, while it sounds like the actions of a disgruntled employee, it could also be described as just plain standing up for yourself.
On January 15, 2004, Oscar was ordered to cover all his employees with Workers Compensation Insurance and pay a fine to the Labor Board of $11,000 for not having it in the first place.
On February 5, 2004, Mr. Jornacion entered into a consent order with the E.P.A who alleges he disposed of hazardous waste at a point which was not authorized, and he agreed to handle his hazardous waste properly and pay a fine of $8000.
The City of Los Angeles issued a Certificate of Occupancy permit for the adult day care, and has been working with him to get his other permits to continue operating the Church and Dance/Banquet Hall- of which the parking spaces are now at issue.
The Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce was very alarmed last month to hear about the approval of the shared parking plan by the Neighborhood Council Committee. Chamber President and Neighborhood Council board member Michael Nogueira vowed to attend the next Eagle Rock Neighborhood Council meeting to make sure the Chamber's voice is heard.
When asked shouldn't the Chamber be more concerned about supporting local business people instead of opposing them, staunch Chamber supporter Kaye Beckham said, "A church is not a business. And I don't think the majority of people in Eagle Rock want to have a dance hall." Councilman Villaraigosa's Eagle Rock deputy Michael Cathy was asked if any there were any other issues besides the parking that the city was looking at. He replied, "Just the parking."

CERT Class Graduates

by Bob Thorpe
On April 12, a class of more than 30 completed the free instruction offered by the Los Angeles City Fire Department and became members of the more than 40,000 citizens now trained in the basics of emergency response. Training included basic medical aid, the extinguishing of small fires, managing utilities (gas and electric feeds damaged during a catastrophe), search and rescue, and the organization of first-responder teams in the event of an emergency.
The seven week course (one night per week) included 17 ½ hours of classroom instruction and live demonstrations of fire extinguishers. The need for such training became evident in the aftermath of the Whittier Narrows earthquake, but the Fire Department had actually been studying the use of citizen response teams two years prior to that event.
Consider that in Los Angeles we have 100 fire stations, 200 fire trucks and 60 paramedic units. Simple math tells us that five minutes after a major earthquake or catastrophe all available resources will have been deployed (and that assumes that none of the fire stations themselves will have been damaged). The need for a corps of trained volunteers is obvious.
In 1985, a group of Los Angeles officials undertook a study of earthquake preparedness plans already implemented in Japan. Citizen teams there were organized by function: search and rescue, fire suppression, first aid, or evacuation.
When a major earthquake struck Mexico City that same year, it was noted that untrained citizen volunteers were effective in rescuing the victims, but suffered 100 deaths in the process of saving 800 people. It was determined that proper training of volunteers could have saved many of their lives.
After the Whittier Narrows quake here, the City of Los Angeles took an aggressive role in the training of citizen volunteers by creating the Disaster Preparedness Unit (originally the Disaster Preparedness Division) within the Los Angeles City Fire Department. The program has been so successful that it has become a template for other organizations such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
A key feature of CERT training is that the focus is on preventing citizens from becoming victims due to lack of training. While it is hoped that CERT trained individuals will form teams and help others in the event of an emergency, there is no requirement that trainees volunteer for any rescue effort.
Every person trained is less likely to become a person in need of assistance in the event of a disaster, and therefore reduces the demands upon the City's fire and paramedic team. For the safety of all individuals and their families, everyone should visit the CERT website at www.cert-la.com to investigate the free training available.

Highland Park Happenings
by Paul Thomas
April Showers may bring May flowers, but they did not interfere with any recent Highland Park activities. Although the Easter/Spring Break season here was relatively tranquil, the community hustled and bustled with meetings, events, and more. The following is a rundown of some of the highlights occurring throughout April:
A big hit on Easter weekend was the carnival that came to Sycamore Grove Park on Saturday April 10. This day and evening event featured rides, games, concessions and even performances on the outdoor stage featuring local musical groups. It attracted many local families who stayed out until well into the night to have some good old-fashioned fun.
At the Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council meeting, which gathered on the dreaded April 15 Tax Day, intense preparations were made for the upcoming Clean & Green Your Parkway (more below). There was also strong opposition to a proposed sanitation tax increase of 83% for all Los Angeles residents. Yes, 83% increase!
Since this affects all of us in L.A., we can all make a difference by calling Mayor James Hahn (213-978-0600), councilmen Antonio Villaraigosa (213-473-7014), Ed Reyes (213-485-3451), or Eric Garcetti (213-473-7013). If we call and say "No," this proposal may be averted. HHPNMC meetings are held the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at Franklin High School Cafeteria (820 N. Avenue 54) at 6:30 p.m.
Mr. T's Bowl, a local haunt tucked behind Figueroa, holds a variety of performances and events. On a drizzly April 17 evening, they featured the Impro Theatre. This improvisational comedy troupe did skits based on suggestions from the audience, ala television's "Whose Line Is It Anyway." The performance made for an amusing and reasonably successful night at Mr. T's. The Impro Theatre may return in the future for more of their offbeat brand of merrymaking. Check Mr. T's website for updates all the details: http://mrtsbowl.tripod.com
Southwest Museum which celebrates its 90th birthday this year, has been holding a Hopi Indian Women's Exhibit in recent weeks. A trip to this museum is always a treat, and it's never been easier to visit, with the Gold Line Metro now stopping at their front door. This historic building is known for holding one of the nation's most important museum, library, and archive collections related to the American Indian. What many don't know is that it also contains pre-Hispanic, Spanish colonial, Latino, and Western American art and artifacts.
As of April 22, the Southwest Museum is finally listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the California Register, after first being nominated over two decades ago! Visit their website at http://southwestmuseum.org for hours, directions, etc.
The sun was already strong and bright at 8:00 a.m. on April 24, when the highly-anticipated "Clean & Green Your Parkway/12th Annual Arroyo Parkway Earth Day Cleanup" kicked off. The event was coordinated by the Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council, and included the northeast communities of Highland Park, Arroyo Seco, Hermon, Sycamore Grove, Monte Vista, Lincoln Heights, and their respective neighborhood councils.
The emphasis was on kids being involved this year, and children were actively encouraged to attend, with free food offered as a bonus. Unfortunately, it was mostly grown men and women that showed up, with a few dedicated elderly couples. Despite a thin turnout, these folks rolled up their sleeves and got to the work at hand: cleaning, weeding, mulching, planting, and painting out graffiti.
The hub of activity by midmorning centered across from the Lummis Home at Avenue 43. The Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Council had a force of about 15 men making rapid progress on beautifying the area there by the 110 South exit. There were also concentrated efforts at the Avenue 60 bridge, Figueroa (across from Sycamore Grove), behind Ramona Hall, and at Heritage Square.
May is Asian-Pacific Heritage Month. Highland Park's Health & Safety Committee, headed by Tina Zabala, will be celebrating on May 15th, with an event displaying arts and crafts of Asia and the Pacific Islands. There will also be traditional food and varied entertainment. Visit http://www.historichighlandpark.org for further information. Enjoy your Spring!

Missing Bob's Jr.?
by Tom Topping
"Ever since Westfield took over our Eagle Rock Mall, they have been on a campaign of uglification- with great success," said Terry Gates. "They cut down 75 pine trees (8, really), they took out the fountain, got rid of the sculpture and the planters, and replaced them with a platoon of 'chatchki' wagons. And now they topped it off by annihilating Bob's (Big Boy Jr.)."
The frustration and anger was apparent in Mr. Gates voice as he recounted his many gripes about the direction the Eagle Rock Plaza has taken since it became a Westfield Shoppingtown (people seldom notice the good things a new owner brings; and really, it has been a lot). I tried to find out what was so special about the junior version of that Southern California icon of a restaurant, Bob's Big Boy. I wanted to know why these folks liked it so much.
"The food was inexpensive and but good," said Tim Ryan of Eagle Rock.
"Bob's was the highlight of the mall," said Joe Lehnhardt, "Some (people) came there just for Bob's."
Even my mother loved to go there. She often would have a coffee or her favorite- an Ice Cream Sundae after taking her morning walk. (I used to eat there myself, but after the addition of a big bass-cannon bump-bump sound system a few years back, the thought of a trip to Bob's was anything but appetizing for me.)
"It was a great little community place- like a sidewalk cafe in France- the prices and the food were all good," said Mr. Gates.
"It was a place where you could be with your friends from the neighborhood," said Carter Martin.
Everyone can probably relate frustration due to the demise of anything that is a personal favorite, whether it be a restaurant, a TV show or even a favorite flavor of ice cream. In this case, however, the problem seemed to be more than just that.
Many people know that anytime you're dealing with large organization, it can be tough or almost impossible to get any information. This was a huge source of frustration to the displaced patrons of Eagle Rock's Big Boy Junior.
The day they found out it was closing was the day it closed. "We're closing in six hours- forever," said Trino, the manager there for 25 years. Terry Gates went right over to the management's office to complain. "Something happened to drive them out," he said. He was sure it was somehow a conspiracy of greed and corruption.
Carter said, "It's just the way it was done (closed). It was so secretive."
Indeed, after hearing the complaints of many folks about the closing I asked Daniel Gordon, the Mall manager what was going on. "We can't make any comments to the media without corporate approval," she said. Finally, after a couple of months went by I told her that the community pressure to investigate it was getting intense and if she wanted to tell their side of it they better send me something.
So they did:
"Westfield Shoppingtown Eagle Rock Announces New Retailers and Restaurants "
"Los Angeles, California - (March 25, 2004) Westfield Shoppingtown Eagle Rock is pleased to announce exciting new Retailers and Restaurants - Armed Forces Career Center, J. Cute Nails, MasterCuts, Sol Clothing, Jollibee, and Goldilocks Bakeshop & Restaurant... etc."
It was a 425 word puff piece about all the wonderful new shops coming in and nothing about why Bob's left.
So questions remain. Was the rent doubled? Carter said manager Trino told him it went from $7000 to $11,000 per month. Did the franchise owner just quit at the end of the lease? Others mentioned a rumor that he owned two medical supply businesses and didn't need to deal with the restaurant business anymore.
Finally, I got through to Daniel again. "Why was it closed in such a secretive manner?"
"It wasn't," she said. "Their (Bob's) lease expired and they decided not to renew."
"Why do all these folks say it was done in a secretive manner?" I asked.
Daniel was getting annoyed now, "I feel you're only focusing on the negative- we sent you a positive release about..."
"Yes, I got that puff piece, but that's not what this story is about," I answered.
"I told you our company policy is never to be quoted," she said. "In that case I can't help you. Have a nice day," she said as she hung up.
My guess is that nothing more than the regular ebb and flow of business and indeed, life itself, is more responsible for its closure than anything. Businesses come and go. People come and go. Or maybe the Mall just didn't like all those annoying folks sitting in there for three to four hours a day, enjoying themselves and spending money.
Was the rent increased? Everyone who knows the answer to that won't say.
It isn't the first time that a big corporation came to Eagle Rock and made the mistake of assuming it is just another part of a big city where people don't know or talk to each other. It also isn't the first time that a corporation has made the mistake of assuming that a small group of community members can't make an impact. And it won't be the last time a big corporation makes the mistake of stonewalling an entire community, creating enormous suspicion, fear and animosity, when telling the simple truth would have been so much better and easier.
In the news business, in order to cover the issues that are important to the community, often some feathers get ruffled. I am pretty sure that Westfield Shoppingtown's feathers are ruffled over this. Don't expect to find the Boulevard Sentinel at the Westfield Mall anytime soon.

School Works
by Paul Thomas
Sycamore Grove School has been an institution in Los Angeles since its inception here way back in 1941. This private educational facility has maintained an affordable low-tuition policy that is in reach of lower income families in the surrounding neighborhoods. Many attendees and their families do, in fact, reside in the Highland Park area. The school handles Kindergarten through 8th grade, and serves to provide students with a high-caliber Christian education.
The couple who head operations here, Pastor and Mrs. Kruver, have been involved since 1953. "We're still trying to graduate him," jokes associate director Harvey Simpson, referring to the venerable Pillar of Fire pastor. Simpson's wife, Denise, is also a teacher at Sycamore Grove. The couple exude a warm and friendly manner, which seems to be the norm at this cheery facility.
Enthusiasm (on the parts of both teachers and students) pervades the atmosphere here. It is undoubtedly contagious, creating an environment where the kids want to learn, and the teachers can do what they do best - teach.
One is struck by the admiration and respect that the approximately 120 students here display. It is reciprocated by the faculty at Sycamore Grove, who tend to stay once they come onboard. The high teacher-to-student ratio makes for more productive classrooms, more one-on-one time, and more happy parents.
As school began letting out on the sweltering April afternoon, 5th & 6th grade teacher Mr. Thomas scurried out ahead to help the students cross the street. He seemed to know them all by name, and a number of kids stopped to hug him good-bye as they headed home for the day. The personal involvement and extra care that comes with a private education here is what really sets it apart from most public schools of the day. Moreover, you generally won't see as many bright smiling faces at other schools, as you will here.
This April, the kids at Sycamore Grove were treated to a visit to the new Audubon Center in Monterey Hills, and were invited to take part in the groundbreaking ceremony. They got to participate as researchers, involved in gauging upcoming events and activities to be held there. Also, the students recently finished well in the ACSI Spelling Bee, the Math Olympics, and are currently in preparations for a "Speech Meet" next month.
Just recently, 7th & 8th Grade teacher Mr. Randall Krags gave a demonstration of eagles to the entire student body. It included life-sized replicas and discussions of the over 150 varieties of American Eagle. The demonstration was clearly a big hit, and still has the students buzzing about it.
Sycamore Grove also provides activities and educational events that go beyond your basic reading writing and 'rithmetic. The students regularly take field trips, and every year the older students take a trip downtown to attend superior court during a trial. Over the years, they have been actively involved with most events held at Heritage Square, "especially the ones that have patriotic themes," according to Mr. Simpson.
As parents will be very selective about choosing a school to send their children to, Sycamore Grove is also very attentive when it comes to admitting students. A pre-enrollment one-on-one interview with the teacher is required for all new admissions.
With all the things we hear that are going wrong in our local schools, it is so refreshing to see some places where it is going right. Nice work, Sycamore Grove.

Boulevard Sentinel California History Project

Last month I left you at “el Roble de Paz,” “The Oak of Peace.” I shall explain why it was called that.
The war between the United States and Mexico was fought from 1846 to 1848. Some of reasons behind it had to do with Texas and the Alamo. Mostly it was about a concept known as “Manifest Destiny”. The Leaders of the United States for many years believed it was their (divine?) right to push the borders of their new country to stretch from one ocean, the Atlantic, to the other, the Pacific.
While Mexico was fighting invading American forces in the heart of Mexico, a handful of forces arrived in Upper California.
John C. Fremont had come over the mountains and arrived at Monterey. Captain Robert F. Stockton had come around the horn and landed at Monterey in July 1846. General Stephen Watts Kearney, with his “Army of the West” camped at the junction of the roads to Los Angeles and San Diego on December 2. Four days later Kearney’s forces fought and lost the “Battle of San Pasqual” near San Diego.
It was a cold rainy morning and the U.S. forces were without horses or dry gun powder. They were no match for the experienced Californio horsemen with their eight foot lances.
When reinforcements from Stockton’s vessel arrived, the Californio’s retreated back to the Los Angeles area. In late December they suffered a resounding defeat at the battle of San Gabriel, on the banks of the San Gabriel River. They retreated to nearby the Pueblo de los Angeles. There the Mexican Californian fighters made their last stand in the Battle of La Mesa, or Battle of Los Angeles.
They had nothing to match up to the superior weapons and training of the United States Forces. The Californios all retreated and hid on the San Rafael and San Pascual rancho properties, now present day Northeast L.A., Glendale, Pasadena and Burbank.
In the meantime, Fremont had made his way south, conquering all the towns along the coast. He arrived in the San Fernando Valley, just in time to accept the surrender of the California Mexicans.
But before he did that, in Monterey, he had spared the life of a young convict by the name of Jesus Pico, nephew of then Governor Pio Pico and Pio’s brother Andres Pico, commander of the Californios.
Fremont had been persuaded to try to peacefully take California by promising that everyone would be treated well, if only they were to lay down their weapons, go home and just continue on with their lives. Helping him to persuade the Californios to do that was Jesus Pico.
On January 11, under an Oak Tree in what is now Glendale, he met with his uncle Andres to tell him of the good treatment the other Californians had received as long as they agreed to obey U.S. laws and not take up arms against the Americans. They met under that Oak Tree that is known as the “Oak of Peace”.
The seven articles of “Capitulation of Cahuenga” were entered into on January 13, 1847. The California Mexican troops were dismissed to their homes. The Californians returned two pieces of captured U.S. artillery, six muskets, and the territory was left peaceably in American Hands.
Just last month, the MTA finished the Historic Reconstruction of the Campo de Cahuenga, located on 3919 Lankershim Boulevard, right at the Universal City Redline Subway Station.

To OXY with LOVE...
Mr. Tranquada,
Your neighbors are appreciative of being informed that Occidental College
will imminently commence its annual brush clearance on the slopes of Mt. Fiji and other undeveloped portions of its campus. We recognize that some clearance is both mandated by the city and a responsible and neighborly practice.
However, we are fully cognizant of the fact that Occidental has, in the recent past, used fire clearance as an excuse to commit environmental depredations on some of the last remaining open space in Highland Park. It is apparent to all who observe the situation that Occidental has recently behaved, not as a responsible steward, but as a typical developer, seeking to exploit legal loopholes in order to have free reign in its later development plans. With regard to this, I would like to point out a few things. In your letter to neighbors, dated April 18, 2004, you state that you hired Ray Byers & Co to do your clearance. This firm will, no doubt, use heavy equipment to indiscriminately destroy all brush in the area.
As has been pointed out to you numerous times, the native habitat of Mt. Fiji is the increasingly endangered Coastal Sage Scrub. By simply running over the area with industrial equipment, you will be destroying valuable and increasingly rare habitat. You have once again, as on numerous other recent occasions, missed an opportunity to act as a good neighbor and a socially and environmentally responsible land holder.
You could have hired local crews to do your clearance, paid the members of the crews a livable wage, and supervised their activities so that flammable weeds were removed, city clearance ordinances were followed, and yet, under direction of members of your own biology faculty, environmentally important natives were preserved.
This would have been good economically for members of the community, and would have demonstrated environmental concern and rational planning. One expects such care from an institution of Occidental's reputation, and, as has happened too often lately, your neighbors are disappointed.
By the way, several months ago, your campus Environmental Club planted native wildflowers in the area which you will be clearing. They are certainly to be praised for their concern. I'm certain that they will be disappointed to learn that their college administration will be responding to their hard work in such a cavalier fashion.
Jeff Pott N. Ave 50

From OXY with LOVE...
Mr. Pott:
Thank you for taking the time to write. Your points underscore the challenge we face in trying to balance the needs of the College, the community, and city regulatory agencies.
Most of what is generally referred to as Mt. Fiji or Fiji Hill -- the 35 undeveloped acres that make up the east side of the Occidental campus -- is unaffected by brush clearance, which is required within 200 feet of all structures and within 10 feet of all streets and alleys. The strips we are clearing are the same areas we have been required to clear each year.
It is always a matter of regret when a neighbor finds our actions disappointing. However, some neighbors who have expressed concerns about the potential fire hazard have told us they are glad the work began this week.
Jim Tranquada
Director of Communications
Occidental College

EDITORIAL

Historic Hermon
Slowly Devoured

by Paul Thomas
It's 7:00 a.m. and F.W. Hertel & Sons are at it again for the fourth year in a row. "Grading" it's called in construction lingo. To the neighbors of Hermon (in Northeast L.A.), it's the grinding down and destruction of our beloved Monterey Hill. It's the maddening beep-beep-beep of Caterpillar tractors backing up and digging forward 3 times a minute, eight hours a day, 6 days a week. It's the "Oak Hill Project," and something this low-key and preserved historic part of L.A. never thought they would see.
Better hope you have photos for the grand kids, so you can show them what a hill looked like once upon a time in Hermon. Because that's what we'll have to rely on: photos and memories. Thanks to some overzealous land developers that are hell-bent on paving over anything natural in their paths in the interest of lining their wallets.
The residents in Hermon certainly did not let this whole thing go down quietly. No, they formed a Hermon Neighborhood Association, held meetings, got a lawyer to help them pro-bono, and generally fought the good fight. In the end, the almighty dollar combined with new engineering and construction technologies prevailed, giving Hertel the Divine Right to move forward with the eternal land development (i.e. destruction).
They said the grading would take 3-4 months. That's what the man in the bulldozer told me back in the year 2000 when I first discovered the project. His resemblance to the old Brawny paper towel guy somehow led me to believe he meant it. I screamed something out of fury, then went home and cried.
3-4 months!!! 3-4 months of daily shaking of my house's foundation! 3-4 months of gophers being driven into my property, along with legions of birds, rodents and assorted insects! 3-4 months of dust that covers the house and lines the lungs! Am I the only one with breathing problems since this project began? I think not.
However, the Noise and the Vibrations: These are the Big Problems. Big Noise. Big Vibrations. Heavy machinery causing Heavy Anxiety. In addition to the incessant beeping, there are stucco machines that sound like antelopes crying in agony, electric drills and saws that grind and buzz, cement mixers roaring back and forth. It gives one the impression of being trapped in a giant slaughterhouse on a busy freeway interchange. As longtime Hermon resident and activist Wendi Riser told me in 2002: "people that don't live here just don't understand. This project is slowly driving us insane."
If it were only 3-4 months. It is now 2004, and there is no end in sight. Just this past winter, some of the new construction was burned in an arson fire. It only affected the new development, and while no one in this neighborhood would condone such an act, it may reflect just how fed up the locals are with all of this.
I've personally suffered ulcers, several nervous breakdowns, and uncontrollable rages on a regular basis now. ALL because of Hertel and the Oak Hill Fiasco.
No one seems to know when it will end, or who's ultimately responsible. I spoke to the alleged project manager Bob Fowler. He doesn't seem to be sure who's in charge or when the project will actually be over, if ever. He seemed irritated that I would even ask.
"When's what gonna be over? The grading?," he queried impatiently. But I wasn't going to fall for evasive answers again.
"No, Bob. The whole project. Done. When will it ALL BE DONE?"
"I dunno! A few years maybe!!" and he slammed the phone down as I was screaming "A FFEEEWWWYYYE.......????!!! Apparently, having to give a reasonably honest assessment was too much for old Bob to go through with.
It turns out R.W. Hertel & Sons have a record of unresolved issues. The Better Business Bureau received no less than 8 complaints in the past 12 months about them, half of which remain unresolved. This is a rather staggering figure when you consider the relatively small size of the company. The number is expected to go up.
Evidently, this new tract of 30-91 (depending on whom and when you asked) homes were supposed to be up for Summer of 2002. They made a big self-congratulatory splash: "Smart Home Development Debuting this Saturday, July 13, 2002 Oak Hill 87 Home Project by R.W. Hertel is wired for Digital Age Los Angeles, CA." As many of us know, the only thing ready for the Digital Age at that time were a couple of model homes which they raced to finish, long before anything else.
It's made for an odd sight these past couple years now. A sprinkle of totally new homes, complete with landscaping, sitting amidst an ocean of dirt, giant machines and new construction. it's become sort of a neighborhood joke, but we're not laughing.
The plan, as far as I can deduce, seems to be this: Tear down land, build a bunch of houses, sell them "starting from the mid- $500,000's." Then after selling a few, tear down more land, build more houses, then sell them "from the mid $600,000's." Then build duplexes that virtually blot out our sky and sell them "starting in the $700,000's." until the only way to view anything natural in Hermon will be to look straight up. Although, even the sky is blocked out by helicopters much of the time. Well, that's another story entirely.
As I write this, I see plots laid out to build more monstrosities right up to my backyard. They have run out of hill to destroy, so they are going underground. Yes, there is a sinking pit between Pinecrest Drive and Monterey Road now. Presumably they will build more houses down there; or maybe they're just digging a shortcut down to their Dark Overlord. I really don't know. I just want it to stop! It's a piecemeal approach that we can't quite fathom. Wendi Riser offered: "There are apparently 2 ways to do construction: Quickly with a large group of people, or slowly with a small group. Hertel has obviously chosen the latter."
I predict it may finally be over by 2010. By then, however, Hermon may become indistinguishable from Studio City or Torrance or Fullerton. A peaceful, unique community turned into a noisy, typical L.A. adjunct.
Our only consolation is that we could now probably sell our houses for triple what we paid for them. No, that's OK. I just want the old Hermon back.
This tale is, unfortunately, to be continued.

TROMPERLAND

A young and dashing Bill “Red” Hostetter with his 1933 Ford Roadster.

by Richard Miazga
Hello again everyone! This monthly column usually talks about the Trompers of Eagle Rock, and about their latest adventures in the hot rodding world. But this month, we are going to turn the clock back a few years, well, actually quite a few years, back to 1939. We are going to let you know about one of the oldest hot rod clubs in Eagle Rock, and for that matter, even the entire United States. It was the "MOTATORS" of Eagle Rock!
About 2 months ago, I had the pleasure of being introduced to one of the founding members of the Motators, Bill (Red) Hostetter, now 80 years young, who splits his residency these days between Eagle Rock and Hayden, Idaho where Bill has a beautiful lakeside home. At a recent Trompers get-together the Trompers had the immense pleasure of having Red tell the background history of this great hot rod club.
What makes the Motators even more significant is the fact that hot rods and the hobby of hot rodding is more widely recognized as having begun with the ending of World War II. The returning veterans with their pent up energy wanted to get moving again. It seemed in 1945, as soon as everyone felt the pressure of war being lifted, a green light went on signaling it was all GO! Hot rod clubs sprung up everywhere overnight, (The Trompers for one) and the word was "Let The Fun Begin"!
To belong to a hot rod club that was active in the 1930's, was to be there before the hobby began, and that makes these hot rodders truly the original pioneers of our sport! Bill Hostetter had this to say about the Motators of Eagle Rock.
"The Motators began as a hot rod club in 1939, when I was just 15 years old. The club was founded by 5 local Eagle Rock High School chums, who had an interest in cars and trying to make them go as fast as possible. This was a task back then, because you didn't have speed shops you could go to, to purchase speed equipment. Everyone had to be very inventive making their own speed equipment."
"My car was a 1933 Ford Roadster with parts me and my friends had "manufactured" ourselves, sometimes in auto shop at Eagle Rock high school. My 1933 roadster was powered by a V8 engine, with a two carb home built manifold, home built dual exhaust, and lots of elbow grease."
All the Motators members, which included such names as Marcus Matick, Tutie Tritch, (the older brother of Merritt Tritch, the owner of Tritch's Hardware here in Eagle Rock, who was a member of the Trompers back in 1948) and Jim Ford, (one of the founding members of our Trompers club) wanted to race their cars on the "Dry Lakes" of Southern California.
In 1939, there was a dry lake called "Muroc" (now Edwards Air Force base) that was being used by the Southern California Timing Association for straight line top speed timing events. The Motators all raced at Muroc until it closed when the war started and was then used as a training field for pilots during the war years. Red's roadster went 102 mph and Jim Ford was the club's fastest at 104. With the beginning of World War II in 1941, everything came to a halt, and the entire membership of the Motators, which was then 14 members, were all inducted into the service.
Red had been going to Flight Engineering School 4 hours each day for special credit from Eagle Rock High School, so he became a naval air training instructor, and did this throughout the war years, even serving some time aboard the Yorktown aircraft carrier. In fact, Red was transferred off the Yorktown two weeks before this carrier was sunk in one of the famous Pacific battles that took place against the Japanese. Red attained the rank of 1st class Petty Officer, and after being discharged in 1945, became a Los Angeles policeman.
Red was a policeman for just one year, then joined the LA Fire Dept. where he served for 20 years, and then retired. For those who remember, Red also owned a very successful concrete pumping business here in Eagle Rock for many years, and now owns a shopping plaza on Colorado Blvd. that keeps him very busy, even at 80.
It's always a pleasure to find someone like Red who was truly one of hot rodding's "firsts". If it were not for the aggressive desire to go fast, that these pioneers of our hobby had back then, who knows what the hobby would be like today? Because we enjoyed Red's story about the Motators so much, and the fact that Red is one heck of a nice guy, the Trompers presented Red with a lifetime membership card in the Trompers. Every Tromper welcomes Red to the club. Red is a Tromper now, and we say, "Let The Fun Begin!"
It's interesting to note that as time goes on, and our club talks to more and more people, we are finding that Eagle Rock, Glendale, Pasadena, and Burbank played a major role in being the "cradle" of the hobby of hot rodding. Some of the very first car clubs that were known in the United States were from around these parts. The Trompers are very proud to be continuing this fabulous legacy here in 2004, after all, it's in our genes.
Speaking of fun, make plans to attend some of the events that are taking place in May. May 5th at the National Hot Rod Association Museum in Pomona, they are having their fabulous cruise-in. Last month 500 cars and at least 5000 people showed up, with many famous people who represent drag racing history present. May 9th, at Veterans Stadium in Long Beach they are having a swap meet. The Long Beach swap is always a good place for the serious car guy.. and, May 8th. right here in Eagle Rock at Jim's the monthly cruise-in sponsored by the Golden Oldies, The Old memories, and the Good Times car clubs starting at 5 p.m.
And of course, on May 29th be sure to attend the Rock'n Rodders cruise in at Jim's starting at 5 p.m. We close this month by inviting you to attend a car show somewhere in the area, I guarantee you will enjoy yourself, and learn a lot about a great hobby. Till next time... "Let The Fun Begin".. rm

EARTH DAY CELEBRATION  2004

In celebration of Earth Day, the Northeast Democratic Club planted a tree on Saturday, April 24. Planted at the intersection of Eagle Rock Boulevard and Avenue 36 in Glassell Park, it is part of a "Memorial" grove of trees, each one planted in memory of those who have passed on, or for Earth Day, 2004, in this case. Pictured are; Mitch O'Farrel, Tony Scudaleri, Luis Quirate, Iban Ruiz, Alonso Calderon, Doug Dawson and George Brauckman.

Election Results Resisted
By Tom Topping
The Eagle Rock Neighborhood Council election became official last month when two formal challenges received were found to be without merit.
Everet Sarabia, a candidate for the civic seat, who lost by only 56 votes, (179 to 123) asked for a complete recount. However, the Department of Neighborhood Empowerement, (DONE)(who is in charge of Neighborhood Councils) said he did not include a compelling enough reason to do that.
Marlene Schmidt, the author of the other challenge, was dissatisfied with the prodedures and actions of the rules & elections and out reach committees as well as the actions of the elections committee chair and ERNC secretary, Bill Markis. DONE determined that there was no significant problem that would have affected the election result, and that the chairman, committees and ERNC board followed the appropriate processes.
I observed the polls for most of the election day and thought it was run quite well. Any possible lapses in the process did not happen there. If anything happened to unfairy influence the election, it had to happen either before or outside of that polling place. Did Anita Hultman skew the election by distributing absentee ballots and a slate to residents at Solheim? She may have done that, but like the title of the James Carville book says, "All's fair in love, war and running for president." I have to salute her for her well played strategy and tactics.
I found that my suspicions about Anita Hultman are 100 % true. Although, on the surface she may seem kinda ditz-ee, underneath, she is one sharp cookie. My advice to you is do not make the mistake of underestimating her.
 

A Cingular Coup for ERNC Sub-District 2
by Bob Thorpe
Cingular Wireless has agreed in principle to donate $5,000.00 over a two year period to beautification efforts in Eagle Rock Neighborhood Council Sub-District 2, the area around its new cell location near Colorado Boulevard and Figueroa Street. The new location is the result of approximately 10 ½ months of negotiations between Cingular and the City of Los Angeles, with input from the local residents represented by Jessica Wethington McLean, Sub-District 2 Director.
The original location proposed was on the Edison property, where the high voltage power line towers could have supported cell antennae, but where the installation would have obscured even more of the natural hillside surrounding the Eagle Rock. A resident concern was that if one cellular service provider installed an antenna there, a precedent would have been set allowing a farm of cell towers to cover the area.
Still to be determined is the manner in which the donation will be made and administered. A possibility is that the money will be donated to the non-profit Collaborative. In any event, it is nice that Cingular is bringing beauty to the community, and Jessica and the ERNC are to be thanked for helping make this happen.
 

U.S Office Machine Co. Anniversary
U.S. Office Machine, in business in Highland Park for 43 years is celebrating its anniversary with a sale on office supplies. They are giving great prices on invisible tape, Liquid Paper correction fluid, staples, staplers, rubbers bands, cash register tapes and blowing out reams of premium quality letter sized paper for only $2 each.
Don't forget, they still repair all makes and models of manual and electronic typewriters, both foreign and domestic, and can supply a ribbon for ANY KIND of typewriter. Owner Jesse Flores is a real icon of North Figueroa Street. He says, "We remain in business after 43 years of service because of our reasonable prices and good service!" They are open six days a week, still at 5722 N. Figueroa Street.

Eagle Vista Seniors
The Eagle Vista Seniors begin their May calendar with the usual 9:00 am Board meeting, and follow with the 10:00 am business meeting. Birthday cake will be served to honor members born in May.
"Show and Tell" by members will continue the craft program on this 4th of May (Tuesday).
May 8 (Saturday) brings the visit to hear the Blue Note Swing Orchestra at Citrus College. This trip will begin at 1:00 pm when the bus will depart from Eagle Vista. After dinner, at the Old Spaghetti Factory (on your own), the return to the Eagle Rock area will be at 7:30 p.m.
May 11 (Tuesday) BINGO! Carlos Cruz, caller.
May 20 through May 25 is the occasion for the big trip to Branson MO. Departure time will be announce later. No meeting on May 25.

Troop 221 Car Wash
Join Joe Lucey Help support Glassell Parks New Boy scout Troop 221 1st Car Wash Fundraiser for summer camp The Boy scouts will be washing cars and cooking food on Saturday, May 22nd at Safe Keep Self Storage at 2840 N. San Fernando Road Los Angeles 90065 close to the 2 freeway. Come by and help these worth boys and their scoutmaster Carlos Montez earn their way to summer camp. Maybe you and your child would like to join the scouts too? Sign him up and join the great lessons and adventures of being a scout. The car wash will be open from 8am through the rest of the day. Don't worry if it's a hot day, sit inside the air condition office at Safe Keep Self Storage and eat your food while waiting for your car to be washed. We will be giving out free balloons to all the kids. Come join the fun and help these fine kids work their way to summer camp. Thank You.

National Day of Prayer on May 6, 2004
"Let Freedom Ring"
As American troops continue fighting for liberty in various countries, United States citizens are preparing to celebrate their freedom to gather, worship and pray. Millions will answer the call to prayer on May 6, 2004, the 53rd annual National Day of Prayer, by flocking to observances held in public venues to intercede for the nation.
As in previous years, President George W. Bush, all 50 governors and the governors from the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico are expected to sign proclamations setting aside the first Thursday in May as a day of prayer.
An estimated 40,000 coordinators and volunteers will host events that take place at courthouses, state capitols, city halls, parks and around school flagpoles.
The National Day of Prayer tradition predates the founding of the United States when the Continental Congress issued a proclamation setting aside a day of prayer in 1775.
In Eagle Rock there will be a community prayer service hosted by New Hope Christian Fellowship, 777 Colorado Blvd. on Thursday, May 6 at 7:00 p.m. For additional details call (626) 836-3199.

Clean & Green Campaign
The Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council has a beautification campaign that is called "Clean & Green Your Parkway." Your parkway is the area between the street and the sidewalk, and if kept clean, green, and safe the entire community will become more beautiful.
Rob Mendel, Secretary of HHPNC, developed a website specifically for the campaign, and it can be reached at historichighlandpark.org. Soon the information will be in Spanish as well as English.
Go to that site to submit pictures of beautiful parkways in your neighborhood or send them to PO Box 50905, Los Angeles, CA 90050. It is hoped that the beautiful community of San Pascual will submit pictures of their many lovely parkways so that we can spotlight them.
The Clean & Green Your Parkway committee co-coordinated with the Kiwanis for the March 20 "K Day" Community Beautification Day. Al C. Strange professionally filmed Kiwanis members Heinrich Keifer and Richard Ledesma and the students from Luther Burbank Middle School Builders Club cleaning and greening the Veterans Memorial Area at York and Figueroa.
They also started Phase 11 of the fountain enhancement. This was the first time that the new HHPNC steam cleaner was used. They plan to return and work on the area again on Earth Day/International Kids' Day on April 24.
Al also completed a professional public service announcement film that featured HHPNC President Manny Hernandez interviewing workers from the Bureau of Street Services demonstrating the correct way to plant a tree on your parkway. He is currently editing the Spanish version of the film.
It was taped at the Police Museum on York, and the Bureau of Street Services donated a tree to the museum on that day. Also taped was Kathy Gallegos of the Avenue 50 Studio who discussed the current status of the Arroyo Arts Collective's plans to clean and green at Avenue 50 where the Gold Line enters the residential section of Highland Park. They now have the plans of their, landscape designer.
The artwork for the flyers, posters, and banners, designed by graphic artist Emerson Terry, are in the process of development and you should see them around the neighborhood before May.
On May I the Hermon community will meet at Monterey Donuts at Avenue 60 and Monterey Road at 8 am for a clean up activity. Councilman Antonio Villaraigosa will unveil a statue on that date.
The next C&G Your Parkway activity of the committee will be to take neighborhood kids and participate in the 12th Annual Arroyo Parkway Clean-Up for Earth Day at Sycamore Grove Park. NA57A (North Avenue 57 Association) will provide food for the C&G kids. The northeast communities of Highland Park, Arroyo Seco, Hermon, Sycamore Grove, Monte Vista, and Lincoln Heights and their Neighborhood Councils will be participating. Come and join us on Saturday, April 24th at 8am.

Recovery from Loss Seminar
New Hope Christian Fellowship, 777 Colorado Blvd., in Eagle Rock will offer a "Recovery from Loss Seminar" on four Thursday evenings in June from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. This is open to the public and the cost is $20.00 per person, which includes the price of the workbook.
Everyone experiences loss – whether it be the death of a loved one, going through a divorce or broken relationship, losing a job, financial setbacks, or other disappointments in life. Come and learn coping strategies, which will help you move beyond loss and restore hope.
The seminar will be led by Dennis Pelley, who has served as a public school teacher, crisis phone hotline supervisor, chaplain, and pastor. Register by May 23 by calling (626) 836-3199.
Hit & Run
While walking down S. Ave 57, my husband and I witnessed a station wagon hit a vehicle (seemed to ram and crunch it really) parked on the right hand side of South Ave 57 near Media. After hitting the car, the driver (pretty sure the driver was a woman) sped down S. Ave 57 and made a sharp turn onto Benner and floored it along that street, which basically meant the driver knew she was fleeing the scene of an accident.
I just found out a few days ago that the driver hit TWO cars parked along the side of the street, one of which is totalled. I don't know if they both belonged to the same man. I think they do though. Since my husband and I witnessed the whole thing, I just want to do whatever I can to help. Thanks, Jennifer

going back to cali
The Mexican Cultural Institute is committed to presenting a diverse series of exhibitions throughout the year in its Gallery that highlight the great Mexican masters, important traditions in folk art, and also contemporary Mexican and Mexican-American artists. This exhibition features two Los Angeles-based contemporary artists who have received an enormous amount of attention from the international art world in the last 4 years. Entitled Going Back to Cali&, this exhibition of new prints, painting and video explores modernist language, imagery, and sociology based on the narco-trafficking culture between Mexico, Colombia and the United States. Capistran and Ybarra are playing off the word Cali referring both to the Colombian city that was home to the most famous drug cartel, and also to California. Their large painting with the same title shows an idealized image of California taken from the Ocean Pacific clothing advertising, but paradise is shattered by packages falling out of an airplane and a listless body lying in the corner.
Juan Capistran was born in Guadalajara, Mexico, but grew up in Los Angeles from the age of three. Mario Ybarra Jr. was born and raised in Los Angeles, of Mexican descent. These two young artists met at Otis College of Art and Design, where they received their Bachelors of Fine Arts. They both went on to receive their Masters of Fine Art at University of California at Irvine, which they completed in 2000. Since graduating, they have formed a collaborative studio/ exhibition space in Wilmington named SLANGUAGE. Their cutting-edge collaborative work has been shown at galleries and museums in London, New York, Canada, Mexico and Los Angeles with Track 16 Gallery in Santa Monica, Los Angeles Contemporary Exhibitions, Deep River Gallery downtown, 4F Gallery in Chinatown, The Project, UC Irvine Gallery, and the Korean American Museum.
The Reception for the Artists is on Wednesday, May 5 (Cinco de Mayo), from 6:00pm to 8:00pm. The artists will present a live DJ/video performance. Complimentary tequila tasting and appetizers will be served. The exhibition is open free to the public from April 17 through June 13. Gallery hours are Tuesday to Friday, 10am-4pm, Saturday and Sunday, 11am-4pm.
Located at the Art Gallery of the Mexican Cultural Institute, Plaza Olvera inside the Biscailuz building in downtown Los Angeles. Across from Union Station, where the Gold Line ends.
For more information, contact Maria Garcia at (213)624-3660 or maria@mexicanculturalinstitute.org
Sponsored by: Canicas Tequila courtesy of Aguirre Tequila, La Casita Mexicana LA, Epson
The Mexican Cultural Institute of Los Angeles was founded by the Mexican government in 1990, and has transitioned to an independent non-profit organization that serves as a valuable cultural resource for Los Angeles, committed to providing education, disseminating information, and presenting the contemporary and traditional arts and culture of Mexico within Los Angeles, Mexico, and abroad.

Toros Pottery
Toros Pottery Studio is proudly celebrating it's 3rd Anniversary in Eagle Rock. Saturday, May 1st from 4pm- 10 pm 4962 Eagle Rock Blvd, LA, CA 90041 Everyone is invited to tour the studio's special open house hours of 4pm-10pm View works created by local studio members and tour the Pottery Studio and Class area. There will be Food, Refreshments, Music and Festivities! Please come enjoy.

Museums of the Arroyo: MOTA Day 2004
Known collectively as the Museums of the Arroyo, these five Highland Park and Pasadena museums open their doors free on this special Sunday, May 16, 2004, for a celebration of art and community. The day features the Arroyo Seco's diverse cultural, artistic and architectural legacy with period demonstrations, craft workshops, music, dance, tours and more. Artwork by children from neighborhood schools will be featured at selected museums. The event runs from 11:am to 5:pm.
In addition to free admission at each MOTA museum, special events at this year's MOTA Day include:
The Gamble House, 4 Westmoreland Place, Pasadena
Kathleen Thorne-Thomsen, author of the popular Frank Lloyd Wright for Kids, will sign her newest book, Greene & Greene For Kids. Visitors can hear a strolling Wurlitzer organ on the driveway while children do crafts.
Heritage Square Museum, 3800 Homer Street, Los Angeles
Guests can observe a Spanish American War encampment, watch traditional woodcarving demonstrations and listen to historical storytellers as well as enjoy calliope tunes. Children can play with Victorian toys and attend a bookbinding workshop Scott Piotrowoski will discuss his book Finding the End of the Mother Road: Route 66 in Los Angeles County. Teresa Kumor will talk about The Hale House, a book about one of Heritage Square's famed houses. Visitors can browse through the exhibit "Top to Bottom: A Woman's Fashions from 1860-1950
Lummis Home and Garden, 200 East Avenue 43, Los Angeles
Historian Daniel Lewis will present "Charles F. Lummis in Chautauqua," a historical characterization. Author Ronald Woolsey will discuss Will Thrall and the San Gabriels: A Man to Match the Mountains. Artist Joseph Stoddard will do watercolor demonstrations and sign his book, Pasadena Sketchbook.
Pasadena Museum of History, 470 W. Walnut Street, Pasadena
Tours of the Fenyes Mansion and crafts for children are planned as well as band organ demonstrations.
Southwest Museum, 234 Museum Drive, Los Angeles
Visitors can stroll through a traditional Mexican Mercado (marketplace) where crafts people and folk artists will display their wares – including regional foods. Kids can make pop-up and accordion books, paper flowers and papel picado. Visitors can hear Aztec music, be enthralled by storytellers, sit in on a western jam session and listen to traditional and contemporary Mexican folk songs. For more information call 213–740–TOUR (8687).

Consuming Passions
Open Members' Show May 8 - June 6
In conjunction with the BID (Business Improvisation District)
Exhibit of site specific installations and art works in stores along York Boulevard, the Arroyo Arts Collective presents Consuming Passions. The exhibit will explore the intersection between art and commerce.
The Arroyo Arts Collective invites all members to submit: One piece in any media that relates to this theme. Work should be ready for hanging or installation.
Participating artists will be asked to sit the gallery for one
weekend afternoon during the run of the exhibit.
Opening reception: Sunday, May 16 from 1 to 4 p.m. Work will continue on view until June 6. Gallery hours are Saturday and Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. Collective @ Avenue 50 Gallery, 135 N. Avenue 50

Tres Caídas/
Three Strikes
Closing Party: Saturday, May 1, 7:00 to 11:00 p.m.
The Avenue 50 Studio will host a party and Cinco de Mayo celebration for our closing art exhibit of drawings and paintings by Jose Lozano, Victor Gastelum, and Ixrael.
Please join us as we celebrate a successful run for the Tres
Caidas/Three Strikes artists.
Wine and refreshments will be served.
 

Van de Kamps Back on Track
Dear Mr. Garsten, Ms. Jackson, and Ms. Carr:
Thank you for meeting with us on March 11th to discuss the status of the Los Angeles City College Atwater / Van De Kamp's bond project.
As was indicated during the meeting, the Los Angeles Community College District has allocated $50 million from the Proposition AA bond program to support the development and construction of this project. This funding remains fully committed to this project. Together with the $3 million in State funding for the initial purchase, $1.4 million in EDA (Federal) funds for site preparation, $850,000 from City College operating resources, and $6.75 million previously allocated from Prop A interest for the purchase of the additional 2 acres (fronting San Fernando Road), there is a total pool of $ 62 million for all aspects of the Van de Kamp's Satellite project. Of course, any subsequent fundraising would expand the pool of funding further.
With this level of funding obtained and committed, we reiterate our intent for a full, non-phased build-out, consistent with prior commitments made to the community.
Although the project was taken off track for further review, it is also our intent to complete construction of this facility as expeditiously as possible. We expect for the project to get back on track no later than May 12, 2004 and that the Satellite Campus would be ready to open early in 2007.
This letter accurately conveys the commitment of City College and the LACCD to the successful completion of the Van De Kamp's project. Please feel free to call or e-mail if there needs to be any further clarification on this topic. We look forward to seeing subsequent communication on your part to your organization's membership that shares the commitment made in this letter.
Thank you again for your willingness to meet. We look forward to your continued support as this important project moves towards completion.
Sincerely,
Darroch F. Young, Senior Vice Chancellor, LACCD
Doris Givens, President, LA City College
Larry Eisenberg, Executive Director, Facilities Planning and
Development. LACCD

Southwest Museum
What a way to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the Southwest Museum building! The Southwest Museum was officially listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the California Register.
This news is a wonderful long-time-in-waiting victory for Los Angeles, the Friends of the Southwest Museum, and for the previous work by many others who did the original nomination back in the late 1980s. Everyone in this Coalition should feel proud of our collaborative work to advocate for this past-due recognition.
It is great to honor the Southwest Museum's national importance with this designation. This listing now provides a strategic way for Autry to access funding only available to National Register properties. Our coalition will support efforts by Autry to secure these monies for the rehabilitiation and continued operation in Mt. Washington.
The following press release was issued by Autry National Center yesterday: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Southwest Museum Designated a National Historic Site
Los Angeles (April 22, 2004) --- The Southwest Museum building is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the California Register due to its association with its founder, Charles Fletcher Lummis, as well as its unique architectural style, which has remained virtually unchanged since its construction in 1914.
In 2003, the Southwest Museum merged with the Autry Museum of Western
Heritage to create the Autry National Center. The Board of the Autry National Center, recognizing the historic and cultural importance of the Southwest Museum building, recommended the listing.
During the nomination of the Southwest Museum to the National Register, it was determined that its significance also lies with those who were influential in the design and construction of the original building. The architectural firm Hunt and Burns completed construction of the main building in 1914 and the addition of the entrance tunnel in 1920. The Caroline Boeing Poole Wing of Basketry was commissioned by the museum director, Frederick Webb Hodge, and supported by Colonel John Hudson Poole and his wife, Caroline Boeing Poole. The Poole Wing, constructed in 1941, was designed by architect Gordon B. Kaufmann, who added exterior and interior features that reflect the basketry collection of the museum.
For more information on the National Register of Historic Places, visit their website at www.cr.nps.gov/nr/ <http://www.cr.nps.gov/nr/>. The Southwest Museum website can be found through the Autry National Center's website at www.autrynationalcenter.org http://www.autrynationalcenter.org or directly at
www.southwestmuseum.org http://www.southwestmuseum.org.
The Southwest Museum is located at 234 Museum Drive in Mt. Washington and is easily accessible via the Metro Rail Gold Line, with a station directly across from the museum.
Admission is $7.50 for adults, $5.00 for students and seniors 60+, $3.00 for children 2-12, and free for children under age 2. The Southwest Museum and Museum Store are open Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free on the second Tuesday of every month.