Boulevard Sentinel, October 2001

Eagle Rock, CA - Sept. 15, 2001 - Rumors of a possible hate crime targeting middle easterners spread like wildfire, when the 7-11 store on Colorado Blvd. became a crime scene last month. It turned out that local, rival gang members were the only ones involved in the 1:45 a.m. shooting that left one dead and one wounded. The police know the identity of the shooter, and the owners of the store are Indian, not Arabic.

Eagle Rock Man Victim of Terror

When American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon on September 11, taken with it was the life of Eagle Rock resident Ruben Ornedo. The 39 year old was a Boeing Engineer and a newlywed of three months. A Mass was held at St. Dominic's Catholic Church on September 18 that filled the Church to near capacity with local citizens, mostly from the ever growing Phillipino community. A very professional choir and orchestra performed beautifully at the mass.

A neighbor of the Ornedos said, "They just moved in. They seemed very nice, we always waved to each other."

A great deal of support has been offered to the family. Persons wishing to donate were referred by Councilman Pacheco's office to call St. Dominic's Church, which originally informed callers that money would only go to the Archdiocese to fund charities picked by them. Now, however, persons wishing to donate directly to the family or widow of Mr. Ornedo may make their checks out to either "Sheila Ornedo" or the "Ornedo Family" and send or deliver to St. Dominic's Catholic Church, 2002 Merton Ave., Eagle Rock, CA 90041, and they will be accepted.

So Cal Flagpole

by Tom Topping

"I was a painting contractor, running a boiler room over on Rowena," said 72 year old Fred Vallee, owner of Southern California Flagpole. "Bob Fletcher worker for me and he used to do flagpoles on the side. He got too big to do them (climb the pole) so he asked me if I wanted to do I painted a 120 foot wooden flagpole at the La Quinta Hotel in Palm Springs. They paid me $326 dollars and I said, `Gee I'm in the wrong business!'" That was 43 years ago.

"The next week I fired everyone and got a license to do flagpoles. That first year I made $1800. In 1981 I made $325,000."

As you may well imagine, last month's tragedy has greatly impacted his business. "Last week I was getting 200 calls an hour," he said. "We normally get 25 calls a day."

"We haven't raised our prices one iota," he said. As we were talking, a young woman came in asking to buy a flag. "This 3 x 5 flag (American) I'm selling for $30. The wholesaler tripled the price!" he exclaimed. "It went from $4.80 to $18.00."

Fred's main business, however, is upkeep and maintenance of flagpoles. He opened up a scrapbook of newspaper clippings from over the years showing him and his handiwork. "All the flagpole companies buy from me, then they raise the price to their customers." He has installed flagpoles up to 208 feet in length, and has served an area extending from San Diego to Washington State and Las Vegas, Nevada.

His warehouse is full of new and refurbished flagpoles ranging in length from 15 to 60 feet, and he has 5 employees. "We're patriotic... we discount all flagpoles off list price." The total price for the purchase and installation of a typical flagpole 30 feet and up is from $3000 to $10,000 including the city permits.

"We stay busy," said Fred. "We haven't had a day off in 4 years."

Eagle Rock, CA - Sept. 14, 2001 - Local citizens participate in candlelight vigil in front of fire station and city hall.

Residents Unite

Vow to Fight Drug Rehab House

By Tom Topping

Neighbors attending a community "Block Party" on Hepner Avenue near Oak Grove Street in Eagle Rock have joined together to determine the destiny of their neighborhood. Lynn Vinkovic, said she attended a previous meeting at a neighbor's house to, “clean up issues on our street."

Lynn, along with other Oak Grove residents had been invited to that meeting by a group of their neighbors that included David Santana, James Ortiz and Maxine Mac Learn, President of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, a nearby community service organization. Santana said the group wants to, "Make some improvements, get a little more response out of city services." He said, "It started with a rental house that had really bad tenants and the owner didn't really care about his property. In order to get something done we decided to form a group. We have an agenda, we'd like to get some trees planted in our neighborhood, have it real friendly for the kids. Right now we have a petition to try and get a halfway house out of here... a drug rehab house that just decided to show up two blocks away from Rockdale Elementary."

Mrs. Mac Learn, chair of the committee to expiate the halfway house, while agreeing that non-violent drug offenders should be rehabilitated rather than imprisoned said, "But not on my street." (She gathered over eighty signatures that day.)

The event was supported by 14th district City Councilman Nick Pacheco, who later made an appearance and gave a short speech. "Nick Pacheco and his team has been very helpful with us putting this community fair together," said Mr. Santana, whose previous organizing experience came from participating in student government while he attended Pasadena City College.

The Councilman, in his customarily cordial and soft spoken style had a chance to meet and chat with many of his constituents who had never seen him in person. "Are you going to run for mayor?" asked Raquel Lopez, a longtime resident and homeowner.

He replied that he would run for re-election to the city council, but there were two in line ahead of him for mayor, namely City Attorney Rocky Delgadillo and Council President Alex Padilla. "I can always be a lawyer - trust me," he said. "I can always go back to the private world, make a lot of money. If I went in private practice it would be corporate law... they'll want someone who knows city hall, so..."

The halfway house may be legally allowed under the "Fair Housing Act" a 1979 state law that prevents cities from imposing zoning restrictions preventing such facilities as long as no more than 6 patients at a time are in residence there. However if the facility is funded under Prop. 36, the Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act of 2000, then this section of the act would apply:

(section)11999.7. Local Government Authority to Control Location of Drug Treatment Programs . Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no community drug treatment program may receive any funds from the Substance Abuse Treatment Trust Fund unless the program agrees to make its facilities subject to valid local government zoning ordinances and development agreements

Attempts to find the Eagle Rock facility on the list of those funded by Prop. 36 were unsuccessful. Here is the web site for the California Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs. http://www.adp.state.ca.us/

Down to Earth Tips in a New World

by David L. Corrick

In the wake of September 11, our minds have been tugged by fear and anxiety over what to do next. We have been bombarded by rumors and media speculation in addition to the modicum of useful information available. Here are some down to earth tips in response to concerns we have heard in the community from a former Special Operations Command staff officer.

TRAVEL: Try to be patient with security personnel and their procedures. Allow extra time and think ahead about whether you really need everything that you usually hand carry. Empty out your purse or attaché case and see if there are any sharp objects in there that could delay your trip. Though it’s hard to accept right now, airline travel is still one of the safest modes of transportation statistically. There are great rates for tickets and hotel rooms everywhere and security is better than ever.

FINANCIAL: Unless you are a professional and really know what you’re doing, stay on your current spending and investment course, unless your income has decreased, and maintain three months worth of pay in savings.

YOUR FREEDOM OF SPEECH: Living in America has changed. We now have security concerns that many countries have been addressing for decades. Now it’s our turn to use caution.

Remember in the 1970’s when we learned not to joke about bombs or hijacking in an airport? Well, now that applies to every public place. Resist the temptation to jest about anything related to these events, unless you’re in the presence of people you know.

If you disagree with government policies, your right to peaceably protest is still, of course, protected. If you want to make a thoughtful point, the best way is to write your elected officials or local media. Do not take cheap shots at military members and civilian law enforcement. They do not determine policy and are sworn to defend the constitution, not political views. Chiding them only makes a statement that one is too ignorant or lazy to deal with the government directly.

SECURITY: Be patient for facts about military actions. Most military classifications are intended to reduce the risk to our soldiers, sailors, airmen and allies and to ensure the advantage of surprise. Further, don’t expect service members you know to expose sensitive details about what they are doing. History will set the record straight in a few months or years.

HEALTH AND SELF DEFENSE: Don’t go out and buy survival and self-defense gear impulsively, but do physical exercise and have your family inoculated.

Thinking about getting a gas mask? First of all, the likelihood of a successful chemical attack is very remote. If you still think it might happen, consider this before making a trip to your local military surplus store: Your mask and a full set of pants, blouse and booties must be fitted, inspected and tested to provide any protection. You’ll have to carry this gear with you everywhere you go to have any impact on your odds of survival. Until they become high fashion, why bother? You may change your mind anyway, once you wear the ensemble for a couple of hours on a hot day.

How about that pistol or shotgun? When was the last time you fired or owned a weapon like that? First, find a secure storage space to protect against access by children or burglars. Take a safety class and locate a firing range to practice at on a regular basis. Study up on local laws. Even then you should ask yourself how, why and where you’d ever use the weapon, which would probably only be for home or business defense. If you’re not ready to make a serious commitment to gun safety, don’t even purchase one.

Maintaining an exercise regime will help reduce stress in these times and get you away from the television news with its endless coverage of the crisis. Protect children from over exposure to media too. See your physician and ask what inoculations your family may be missing. Ask what is available and recommended. Germs are more likely to be spread accidentally than in hypothetical asymmetrical warfare, so it makes sense even out of the context of world events.

HOW CAN I HELP? Most of the volunteers needed in the initial phases of the attack were qualified health, fire and rescue professionals along with military support. But there are things you can do and continue doing.

Donations: we’ve all heard about the legitimate charities and the scams in the wake of the tragedies. Do your research, but consider that the Red Cross accepts blood and money and that the Salvation Army accepts donations in kind (material goods). Don’t forget your favorite charities. Our local community continues to need your support.

Support your Guard and Reserve: American taxpayers have been enjoying a peace dividend since the end of the Cold War. This while we still had military commitments in South Korea, the Balkans and, in Iraq, a shooting war for over a decade. This, in addition to drug interdiction missions in Latin America and humanitarian aid in Africa. And what about relief for the last natural disaster in the U.S.? How all this has been done at such low cost is due to the 365 day per year participation of members of the Guard and Reserve. They’re in Special Forces, really all of the forces, and they fly the most sophisticated aircraft. Unless you’re ready to pay a lot more in taxes and have a draft, I suggest you give them the time off and benefits they deserve and are guaranteed without hesitation. It’s the right thing to do and it’s the law. Hire one, and you’ll get someone with integrity and countless hours of leadership training.

EDUCATION: Use this opportunity to learn about culture, religion and geography of the Middle East and South Asia. Teach your children about the diversity of the region and the countries supporting the U.S. Initiate conversations with Muslims at work and school and find out how much we have in common as fellow Americans.

Being responsible and sensitive to these changing times shouldn’t prevent us from enjoying life in the greatest country on earth. Things will never be quite as normal as they were, but we can keep the coolest heads we can, as we wend our way into this new war.

Flag Etiquette

by Genine Sauer

With the recent tragic actions afflicted upon the city of New York and the Pentagon, support across the nation has risen to an all time high. Even in Northeast LA, flags of freedom are flying proudly on display everywhere I go. But does anyone know how the protocol for displaying our nation’s proud colors was established?

For nearly 50 years after Congress authorized the design for our flag, citizens had no uniform set of rules to guide them in displaying and showing respect for the flag. To supply such a guide, a National Flag Conference was held in Washington. D.C. on Flag Day, June 14 1923.

Representatives of sixty-eight organizations met and drew up a Flag Code, which was revised by a second Conference in 1924.

Congress in 1942 adopted a resolution that made the Flag Code law. This resolution was amended on July 7, 1976 and became Public Law 94-344 commonly called the Flag Code.

Here is a brief rundown of the code.

"The flag should be hoisted briskly and lowered ceremoniously. The flag should not be displayed out-of-doors on the days when the weather is inclement. The flag should be displayed daily, weather permitting, on or near the main administration building of every public institution. The flag should be displayed in or near every polling place on election days. The flag should be displayed during school days in or near every schoolhouse."

It is the universal custom to display the flag only from sunrise to sunset on buildings and on stationary flagstaffs in the open. However, when a patriotic effect is desired, the flag may be displayed twenty-four hours a day if properly illuminated during the hours of darkness.

1. When displayed either horizontally or vertically against a wall or window, the union should be uppermost and to the flag's own right, that is, to the observer's left. No other flag or pennant should be placed above, or, if on the same level, to the right of the flag of the United States of America, except during church services conducted by naval chaplains.

No person shall display the flag of the United Nations or any other flag equal, above, or in a position of superior prominence or honor to, or in place of, the flag of the United States.

2. When flags of the States, cities, or pennants of societies are flown on the same halyard with the flag of the United States, the latter should always be at the peak. When the flags are flown from adjacent staffs, the flag of the United States should be hoisted first and lowered last.

3. The flag of the United States of America, when it is displayed with another flag against a wall from crossed staffs, should be on the right, the flag's own right, and its staff should be in front of the staff of the other flag. However, when the flag will be displayed in the center it is to be at the highest point of the group when a number of flags of States are grouped and displayed from staffs.

4. When flags of two or more nations are displayed, they are to be flown from separate staffs of the same height. The flags should be of approximately equal size. International usage forbids the display of the flag of one nation above that of another nation in time of peace.

5. When the flag is to be flown at half-staff, it should be first hoisted to the peak for an instant and then lowered to the half-staff position. The flag should be again raised to the peak before it is lowered for the day. On Memorial Day, the flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon only, then raised to the top of the staff. By order of the President, the flag shall be flown at half-staff upon the death of principal figures of the United States Government and the Governor of the State, as a mark of respect to their memory. In the event of the death of other officials or foreign dignitaries, the flag is to be displayed at half-staff according to Presidential instructions or orders.

Be proud to be an American, land of the free, and the home of the brave!

Eagle Rock United?

Well, the article in the LA Times Magazine sure has stirred up a lot of controversy in the community, which is not necessarily a bad thing.

However, I don't like to see people who are sincerely working toward the greater good being vilified. I may not agree with everything Tom says in this publication, but by talking to Tom, I know his heart is in the right place and I respect the hours he puts in to make this publication.

And, I am sure his main motivation for doing so is to provide a service to this community. By the same token, Joanne Turner, who is a working mother with two kids to raise, volunteers countless hours of her time to try and create what she sees as a better Eagle Rock for everybody. There is no personal financial gain or other ulterior motive for what she and the other board members of TERA are doing. There are other people who donate their time to paint out graffiti, plant trees, and prevent crime. We should be glad we have people in the community who give a damn. I also respect anyone who has the courage and ambition to open a business on the Boulevard. (Providing it is a non-nuisance business which doesn't cause a parking, noise, or eyesore problem.)

I do believe all the different factions in Eagle Rock want the same thing; we just don't agree on how to get there. I think we all want:

1. No graffiti.

2. No gangs.

3. To be able to park in front of our houses without having to resort to resident parking permits.

4. To sleep at night without being awakened by a ruckus.

5. Programs to keep our children out of trouble and help them become happy, successful adults.

6. A neighborhood which is pleasant to look at.

7. A thriving business district with all the vacant buildings on the Boulevard occupied. I dare say we probably have similar ideas of what our first choice of types of businesses should be to fill those vacant buildings.

The severe disagreements begin when we start talking about what an acceptable second choice should be to fill the vacancies. I hope we can be more respectful of differences of opinion and work together and focus our energy on the common goal.

David Gustavson

Letter to the Editor

Dear Boulevard Sentinel,

I don’t know what happened to the Chamber of Commerce in our town.

Most chambers are set up to assist business in improving local commerce, not to be a town council. For that we have elected officials or so I thought. Although I must be honest in stating that I haven’t attended a recent luncheon, the few that I have attended were very depressing. They seem to make all decisions for our community events and involvements. There are no opinions of the community for the concerts in the park or local parade, only the opinion of the chamber board, the members of the chamber seem to just let the board run with it all.

It seems our local chamber is run by the same families over and over again. I appreciate their involvement but really - give us a break here. But wait; did you know that anyone could become a member of the chamber? You can join as a business or as an individual resident, oh but there is a catch - see if they ever credit you with those fees when you send them in or even send you a receipt or plaque for recognition. I should know - I have submitted not only one check payment but also two checks for membership - both have been cashed yet I have never received my membership, newsletter or recognition. And it gets better. I have offered my services as well as have others - but it seems as though only the same few people can run the chamber - I thought this was America!

Don’t get me wrong; the chamber does some great things. They really do support the local community - too bad the community doesn’t know what they are supporting.

Eagle Rock Resident

(Name withheld on request)

Diesel Fumes Terrorize Eagle Rock

Last Thursday, September 20, I was walking down to the Super A market to pick up some groceries when I met my nemesis - the 40 foot-long Proctor and Gamble Marketplace trailer-truck parked in the Super A/Savon car park with its engine running. I met the truck at about mid-day, at which time the truck had been idling for about 3 hours.

I had met this monster before, about 6 months ago in the same place and had complained at that time to both the manager of Super A and Councilman Pacheco’s office about the diesel fumes spewing forth from the truck. As I realized previously, the driver and salesmen in the truck were completely unsympathetic to my requests that they turn their engine off and stop polluting our environment with cancer-causing and brain-damage causing diesel fumes, claiming that they needed to leave their engine on “because of the radio”.

Although the manager of Super A, Dave, said that he’d ask them to turn the engine off, when I passed by the truck after doing my shopping the truck’s radio was turned up even louder and its driver and salespeople seemed to mock me in defiance as if I were impinging on their rights on some way. When I called councilman Pacheco’s office, all I got was a non-caring reply that it was not unlawful to leave one’s engine running.

Could we please have a little more caring and social conscience from the business people and community leaders of Eagle Rock? America uses nearly half the fossil fuels on this planet to drive its SUVs and provide power. This in turn causes global warming, pollution and disease. Like all Americans I prefer to solve problems democratically, but I can understand why when the people in our democratic community fail to act in the interests of health and prefer to do business as usual in the name of materialism some people are going to get angry.

Environmentalists are not terrorists, but we understand how people who come from countries who are suffering from the oppression caused by our greedy consumption of oil do hate America. Perhaps if we thought about this a little more we would all be happier. (name withheld by request)

Dear Tom,

First of all, I want to thank you for taking the initiative and at the beginning the funds out of your pocket to print the Boulevard Sentinel. Without the Sentinel, we Eagle Rockians would be totally ignorant of what goes on in our community. I am proud of you and applaud you for your insight and courage.

It has been a week since 9/11 when the coward, rabid dogs attacked our USA. Not only did these demons take thousands of our countrymen with them, but they also raped us all of our peaceful existence as Americans.

My sorrow is deep and immeasurable and my sympathies are with all the bereft families’, police and firemen in our United States of America and around the world.

I must be at the anger stage of my healing process as; I’ve picked up paper and pencil. What brought me to this stage of anger was yet another old commercial building on Colorado Blvd. (One Day Paint and Body) in Eagle Rock is being considered a historical site. Not by our community at large mind you, but a handful of self-appointed, grant writing, egocentric people who have moved to Eagle Rock to improve it, supposedly, because we who have invested in our homes and businesses for years, don’t know what’s best for our community!

These same power hungry, greedy few have infiltrated practically every community organization in Eagle Rock, they also sit in the board of directors in their organizations. A majority of these people neither work nor own a business here. (Just for the record, if you recall the lengthy, cocky and full of bull article with the LA Times recently about ER) This same person who doesn’t want a Starbucks where the Bricks restaurant is located, is the same person who moved into our community recently, in the article she claims she wandered onto the boulevard for a good cup of coffee. She said, she had to travel to Glendale to Starbucks for a decent cup because she couldn’t find one here. By hook or crook, she now owns her own coffee house! (Across the street from Bricks)

These newcomers have an agenda at any cost. They have already managed to cripple a number of businesses in Eagle Rock by bringing in the Inspectors from building and Safety Codes department, through political influence or naming an existing building a historical site, etc.

Beware my fellow Eagle Rockians, unchecked; these terrorists will destroy our business district. (I’m definitely not against progress unless it hurts my fellow merchants) These handful of people do not acknowledge or accept what we have to offer in Eagle Rock as merchants or community, yet, they desire to become our leaders. These people are aggressive, tenacious and if allowed will replace us all with their coffee houses, and whatever else they call HIP, and all to satisfy their inflated egos and greed in the form of higher property values.

For those of you who don’t like my comments or my country, get out, I won’t miss you. And for those of you who have perished in the terrorist attaches and those who are gone and who are going to foreign soil to fight terrorism against my community, country and the world - I owe you.

God bless my America,

Dee McDonough

P.S. I apologize to the few of my longstanding friends and residents of Eagle Rock who have been sucked in by this newcomer wanna-be.

Stories from the Angels

(of Eagle Rock Gift Store)

By John Culver

As the noon hour approached on the day, which our President had appointed Americans to spend in prayer or thoughtful reflection concerning the terror of 9/11, I was passing out copies of the service that St. Barnabas’ Episcopal Church would use that day. I walked around the block on which my former store had been located (my gift store was were SWORK is now) and for those few minutes I was back in business.

I talked to my former neighbors and directed them to the church near-by on the corner of Caspar and Chickasaw (We now open the church from noon to two each weekday). Later that weekend, I told the following story to friends in Oceanside.

When customers came to my store, I would ask them if they had had any experiences with angels. Those angels could either be of the supernatural type or simply be people, animals, or plants, whose actions seemed to be angelic.

One young woman told me that she had been stopped in freeway traffic when she realized that a jackknifed big rig was coming right at her. She knew she was about to die and in that instant, she felt the presence of someone next to her. She was alone in the car but so strong was that sense that she looked beside her. No one was there but whatever it was that was there filled her with peace. She woke up in the hospital after suffering injuries to her back.

She told me, that after her recovery, she had come to believe that it was the spirit of her deceased brother that may have comforted her.

While her angel story revealed nothing that could be seen, another customer told me a story that had a visual manifestation. He, also, had been in a car accident.

He had been stopped at an intersection in Eagle Rock, when he was rear-ended and sent “flying” through the intersection. He knew he was about to die and burn in the explosion that would occur as his car hit the pumps in the station across the street.

As he realized the horror he was about to experience, an intense ball of light appeared above the steering wheel in his car.

He was immediately filled with peace and rode out the accident in calm. His car did not strike the pumps.

This man is a lay member of The Order of St. Francis and he felt he had been blessed by the presence of an angel, one whose presence was felt and seen as a ball of light.

I pass these two stories on because I believe that for the thousands who dies September 11th, many of them were comforted in like manner. Perhaps we will hear such stories from the survivors. You can pass on angel stories, which you have heard that substitute for those that were told to me.

The gifts that I consider to be valuable in my store were those that we give each other when we help out or kindle the spirit. Each one of us is now ground zero and we have gifts in our hearts. We can amount to nothing and remain a “zero”, or we give those gifts with which we are now blessed.

We can overcome the negativity of that horrible day when of the trinity of terror reigned in New York, Penn’s Woods, and Washington D.C. Angel-like beings appear in many of the religions of the world, in fact angels appear to those who practice no formal faith.

As I made my round of the block that Friday the 14th, I gave copies of our service to a crew that was making a commercial for Burger King. The woman in charge of the group’s lunch meditation said she was going to read the Prayer of St. Francis. Even though she didn’t choose to incorporate any of our “home-grown” prayers, it was just fine with me that she was going to “have it her way”.

Lozano Contracted to Pacheco's Office

By Tom Topping

Longtime Latino political insider, operative and "King Maker" as some refer to him, Henry Lozano, has been contracted by the City of Los Angeles to provide personnel services for 14th district councilman Pacheco. He will be paid $15,000 for three months of services.

Mr. Lozano was instrumental in the successful campaigns to elect Pacheco to the City Council and Xavier Beccerra to state assembly and Congress, as well as Beccerra's failed Mayoral bid. He gained public notoriety during a contentious child custody battle for his daughter with then 14th district councilman Richard Alatorre.

According to Councilman Pacheco's press deputy, he was contracted for his expertise in working with lobbyists on projects within the district regarding Community Development Block Grants, a Botanical Art Project, El Sereno Revitalization and a restoration of a middle school among others. She said as far as she knows, his services have nothing to do with the Councilman's campaign for re-election, which should begin next year.

Shopping Bag

Activists want cultural heritage status for 1948 building described as “Streamline Moderne” style by Tom Topping

Eagle Rock Community members got together to join a walk through of the old Shopping Bag building with the Cultural Heritage Commission last month. At stake was possibly the future of the ever increasing revitalization and renewal of Eagle Rock’s commercial areas.

A building previously ignored by all community members with a heart for preservation has been identified as “Streamline Moderne.” According to new TERA board member Mike Southard, “The style was popular for a relatively short time (roughly 1932-42). It was a transitional movement between the celebration of the PreDepression Art Deco, and the severity of the international style after WW2. It is uniquely American in its aesthetic, as its facade suggests a sleek, mass-produced object, reflecting an influential field of industrial design and aerospace industry. Businesses dating from the post-World War 2 era are simpler and more restrained in appearance, lacking the flashy, exuberant details associated with earlier streamlined Art Deco from the 20's and 30's.” Michael admits that it’s not that good an example of the style.

The area of and around the building that the new owner proposes to develop is one of the few lots in Eagle Rock that is big enough to support various desired uses like a family restaurant or multiplex theater. Community members expressed concern that although the building has been around for years, the Cultural Heritage status now being sought only occurred after the new owner bought it.

Ray Patel, President of N.E.A.T., a local business owners association said, “If there was such a great interest in preserving a historical building, they should have done it (acquired historical status) a long time ago.” “How would you like it if you bought a house, only to be told after you bought it that you wouldn’t be allowed to live there?” “They don’t tell you everything,” said resident Terry Munday, who received the alert to help save the building and initially supported the effort to save it. “It’s just not fair to change the rules after someone enters the game,” said another longtime resident who asked not to be identified.

Crusin' with Conrad

Hello Eagle Rock,

What a heck of a humbling month. In the scheme of things this hobby of hot rodding, or for that matter anything not doing with being and caring for one another is trivial. We got caught of guard by the terrorists. Much like Pearl Harbor. I can’t understand that much hate, beyond my comprehension.

One of Eagle Rocks own citizens was killed by the terrorists. His name was Ruben Ornedo. No matter that the deed was done 3000 miles from here, it still hits close to home. The profits from our raffle in September will be given to Mrs. Ornedo.

Well Tim Dodd got the Model A Coupe on the road and brought it cruise night. Now the living room roadster needs to get running. It has been fired up and set off all the alarms in the neighborhood (no mufflers-yea).

Bob Muzingo’s 32 five window Ford coupe is coming along. The frame is getting back into shape.

Any hot rodders out there that would like to go on a Sunday cruise meet us at Jims Burgers Sunday, October 7th at 7:30 AM. We are going up to Santa Paula Airport for the flying. They got neat museums and a good cafe. Going to be fun.

September 22nd, there was a morning cruise on Colorado Blvd. between Townsend and Mt. Royal. It was neat, had about 30 cars over 3 hours it was on. The Eagle Rockin’ Rodders want to thank Councilman Pacheco and field deputy Linda Herbert for their efforts.

Cruise night at Jim’s was a success in Sept. Up to 50 cars over the evening. Lots of new cars. A couple of new Corvettes, and a 1956 Ford Club Sedan. I even had my 56 Ford there with the quarter panel back in place, along with the real gas tank.

Well so much for now, Just cruisin’, Conrad

Optimist News

Former heavyweight George Foreman, the Honorable Terry B. Friedman, presiding judge of Los Angeles Juvenile Court, and Union Bank of California will be honored by Optimist Youth Homes and Family Services on October 17th at their 5th annual Mentor Awards Gala held this year at the Millennium Biltmore Hotel.

Foreman, now a successful businessman and broadcaster, will be presented the award for his dedication in giving youth the opportunity to develop their athletic capabilities in a safe environment.

Friedman, who was appointed to his current position last year, will be presented the non-profit agency’s Humanitarian Award at its major annual fundraising event.

“Terry Friedman best exemplifies the passion, commitment and insights that are required to humanely and fairly deal with children whose lives are in jeopardy,” said Silvio John Orlando, executive director of the Highland Park based Optimist Home.

Finally, Union Bank of California will receive the Corporate Community Partner award for its continuing support of the agency’s programs and services.

For additional information about the dinner and reservations, please call (323) 341-5500.

Library Friends

The Friends of the Eagle Rock Library will hold their monthly meeting on Tuesday, October 9th.

They will be having a used book sale on Saturday, October 27th from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the library, 5027 Caspar Avenue. Coffee and baked goods will be for sale from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. Most book prices are $1.00 or less. Only soft back and hardback donations will be accepted at the library on October 26th. (Sorry, no magazines).

For additional information, please call (323) 258-8078.

Annual Crime Prevention and Open House

The Northeast Station, Blend and CPAB are pleased to host the second annual Crime Prevention Fair and Open House. A fun filled day with safety workshops, music, food and presentations by LAPD Special Units are in store for a day of lots of activities.

The event is on Saturday, October 20th from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Northeast Station is located at 3353 San Fernando Rd. For additional information contact Captain Kyle Jackson at (213) 485-2549.

Van De Kamps to Adaptively Reused

Local historic preservationists were celebrating last month when ground breaking ceremonies were held at the old Van De Kamps bakery site, located on Fletcher drive near San Fernando Road. Thanks to State Senator Richard Polanco, in 18 to 24 months, at this location will be a satellite site for Los Angeles City College. The look of the historic facade will be maintained. It will now be possible to attain college credits close to home.

Wild About Reading in Lincoln Heights

The Lincoln Heights public library invites you to join “The Magic of Tony Daniels!” on October 30th at 3.30 p.m. where you will be enchanted with magic tricks of all kinds!

The library is located at 2530 Workman Street in Lincoln Heights. Call 226-1692 for information on additional events for the month.

ERCPR News

Revitalization consultant Ed Henning has been retained to manage the Eagle Rock Storefront Improvement Program. The Eagle Rock Community Preservation and Revitalization board voted to approve initial payments to Mr. Henning.

Andrew Barrera, from the Valley Economic Development Corp., made a presentation about their Micro Loans program, which businesses may use to augment the storefront improvement program.

Cypress Park Library Events

Every Friday, from 2:30 to 5:00 p.m., the Cypress Park Library has Introduction to the Internet and Virtual Library. Call 213) 612-0460, to register.

On Tuesday, October 29th, join in for “Flights of Fantasy”. Celebrate Halloween with live theater and scary stories. The spooky stuff starts at 3:30.

The Cypress library is located at 3320 Pepper Ave.

Art Luck and other Cultural Center Happenings

“Art Luck” - an open exhibition will continue to be in display at the Eagle Rock Community Cultural Center through October 22nd. All are invited to see their first annual non-juried 12” X 12” all media, 2 dimensional exhibit. You can also have a chance of meeting these artists this Saturday, October 6th, from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the ‘Art Luck Reception’.

Sunday open Sunday (ON SATURDAY) A free family workshop will be provided by the Friends of the Junior Arts Center and the Cultural Center from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.

On October 7th, the Golden Gate Theater Evening Concert will feature jazz/eclectic music by jazz quartet Minim and duo Michael Intriere and Rod Polle, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $10, Seniors, students and children $5. For information please contact (626) 795-4989.

October 20th will bring the Cultural Center’s Annual Rummage Sale. Come to the Center and find hidden treasures at a low cost to help support the center. There will be a variety of activities including antique clothing, children’s face painting, baked foods and much more. 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Call the center for additional information.

To wrap up the month there will be a Main Gallery Art Exhibition: Japanese Paper Cuts by artist Paula Broussard beginning October 29th. Gallery hours will be Monday thru Friday from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. There will be a reception held on Saturday, November 3rd from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

HISTORICAL SOCIETY TO MEET

OCT. 16

Members and friends of the Eagle Rock Valley Historical Society are invited to celebrate the Society's 40th birthday with an informal dinner at Columbo's on Tuesday evening, October 16th at 7 p.m. This meeting will be in lieu of the October meeting usually held at the Cultural Center.

Cost of each Columbo's dinner with non-alcoholic beverage and dessert is $13.95. Diners may indicate their preference for either chicken, beef, or fish. Reservations are advised as space is limited. Please call Melody Peterson at 323-258-1647 to reserve.

Because of the change in venue and routine, ERVHS members will vote by mail for the first time this fall. New officers and board members will be introduced, and retiring officers and active volunteers will be honored at the Columbo's event. Both the new president and outgoing president John Miller, retiring after a dozen years of service, will preside. Members are reminded that ballots are due by October 12th and represent a vote of confidence for the new slate.

Oldtimers and Eagle Rock history will also be featured at the Women's 20th Century Club benefit on October 27th at the 20th Century Clubhouse. ERVHS presidential nominee Eric Warren will emcee several brief program segments designed to be both informational and fun. Reservations for this dinner-and-dance gala may be made by calling Pat Topping at 256-4258. Cost per person is $50.

Christmas Boutique Bake Sale & Soup Kitchen

On Friday November 9 from 2:00 to 5:30 p.m., and Saturday the 10th from 9: a.m. to 3: p.m., the Women’s Association of the Occidental Presbyterian Church is having their annual Christmas Boutique Bake Sale & Soup Kitchen. They will have Handmade baked goods, handcrafted practical and novelty gift items, potted plants and of course, their home made sopup served with french bread (served Saturday only). Occidental United Presbyterian Church, 4371 Eagle Rock Boulevard (Corner of York and Eagle Rock Blvd’s. (323)256-0584.

Eagle Rock turns 90

Join Eagle Rock in commemorating our 90th Anniversary of Incorporation. The weekend celebration features a gala Dinner Dance and Family Festival. The dinner dance will be held on Saturday, October 27th, at the 20th Century Women’s Club. The evening will include a reception at 6:30 p.m. (music provided by the ERHS Jazz Band), dinner (at 7:30 p.m.) and dancing to the big-band music of Jack Lantz, in this historic setting. Proceeds from the $50 tickets, will benefit the 20th Century Women’s Club building restoration. For ticket information call (323) 257-2652 or email jcatdamon@aol.com.

A family festival will be held on Sunday, October 28th. The day begins with a pancake breakfast from 7:00 a.m. to noon. Breakfast, benefiting the St. Dominic’s Youth Group, includes pancakes, hash browns, sausage, orange juice and coffee. It will be held at St. Dominic’s lower parking lot (across from the library). Tickets are $5 per person. The Festival operates from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Merton and Caspar Streets (site of the weekly Farmer’s Market) and will feature arts and crafts, foods, rides and entertainment. A Halloween costume contest will begin at 4:30 p.m. Bring the whole family and join the community to celebrate the history of Eagle Rock.

Eagle Rock Music Festival

Hit the street on Saturday, October 13th for the third annual Eagle Rock Music Festival. Start at the Cultural Center at 6:00.

From 6 - 8 PM we will feature Spencer Day on the piano, playing and singing your favorite old standards in his very own talented style. At 8:00, bands and individual performers will begin playing in many different venues all along Colorado Blvd.

Besides the Center, venues this year include Swork, David Steven Realtors, Robin's Beauty Studio, Eagle Rock Flowers, Cafe Beaujolais, Beaujolais Boulangerie, The Welcome Inn, Cycle Depot, Topper's, Fatty's, Elvira's, Colombo's, Rantz Auto, Pete's Burgers, Jim's Burgers, the Twentieth Century Women's Club, and the vacant former dance studio on the corner of Colorado and Caspar.

From 8 - 10, listen to Zydeco at the Center, an incredible swing band at Fatty's (complete with dance contest), Jazz at Swork, oldie's at Jim's, Celtic Rock at Topper's, and a host of other fantastic performances. At 10, come back to the Center for the amazing Latin sounds of Brasil, Brazil.

As always, this year's event proves to be bigger and better than ever. DON'T MISS IT!

Arroyo Arts Collective

The Gallery Figueroa is now open at 6122 N Figueroa in Highland Park. The first featured artist, Lori Markman, is described by the LA Times as “anything but dry and academic” can be seen on exhibit through October 28th. For additional information about the newest gallery in the Northeast area, please call, Jennifer Rowland at (323) 697-4912 or email at redmangojr@aol.com.

Parish Fiesta

Come join us for the annual St. Dominic Parish Fiesta, which will be held on Friday, October 12th from 5:00 to 11:00 p.m. and on Saturday, October 13th. From 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Please join the fun with lots of rides, food and games.

The Fiesta will be held at 2002 Merton Avenue in Eagle Rock.

EAGLE ROCK DOG PARK

(Off-leash dog exercise area)

The very first community meeting for the Eagle Rock Off-leash dog exercise area-Dog Park- was held at the Eagle Rock Recreation Center on September 5 at 7PM. This meeting was well attended by the community. Linda Herbert represented

Councilmember Pacheco’s Office and Sharon Nishihara, Park Recreation Director, represented the City of Los Angeles Parks and Recreation Department. Ursula Brown presented the project proposal to the Park Advisory Board and the attendees.

The Dog Park project is part of The Eagle Rock Beautification Collaborative. The proposed site is located in the South-East section of the Park and appears to be best suited at this time. Suggestions for alternate sites are invited and very much appreciated.

There is a considerable amount of work yet to be done on this proposal. If you are interested in finding out more information about the Dog Park or would like to support this worthwhile project for our animals and community enhancement, please call Ursula Brown @ (323)255-9400, fax @ 323-257-6823 or mail to Ursula.Brown@worldnet.att.net.

Eagle Vista Seniors

The Eagle Vista Seniors had there customary birthday celebration of October 2nd.

The October 9th meeting will be held at Ramona Hall, 4850 N. Figueroa, where volunteer members will be modeling in a fashion show - a great success last year. Tea and sandwiches will be served but members are asked to bring their own teacup. (Each table will furnish one teapot.) There will be door prizes to win and the whole program costs only $5.00 for members, and for any welcome friends, $7.00.

On October 15th (Note: this is a Monday) the Rusty Pelican will be the site for the Annual Appreciation Luncheon. This honors the many good workers who have greatly helped the club and is open to all who pay for their own lunch.

No meeting on October 16th but October 23rd brings BINGO, with Carlos Cruz, caller.

October 30th brings out ghosts, goblins (and costumed members) for the Halloween Party. Stay tuned for further details.

All meetings are held at the Eagle Vista Recreation Center, located at 1100 Eagle Vista Drive, at 10:00 a.m., unless otherwise noted above.

Fall Craft Faire

The Fraternal Order of Eagles Ladies Auxiliary will be putting together their Annual Craft Faire; scheduled for November 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Local artisans will be selling their crafts, unique gifts and decorations in preparation for the holidays. They will also have a variety of baked goods to test your culinary delights.

The event will be held at the Eagles Hall located at 1596 Yosemite Drive. A portion if the proceeds will go to local charities.

Anyone interested in participating should contact Pat Moore at 255-8544, or the Eagles Hall at 257-8869.

Eagles Club Dates

On October 26, the Eagles Club is having their big October eent, the combination $5 per plate fish fry, Monthly birthday party and Halloween bash. the evening starts at 6: p.m. Don’t forget the Sunday breakfasts on the 7th and 21st, or Monday night football through January.

Barbara Ferrara

Pick up a copy of any astrology magazine published over the past 6 months and one cannot help noticing the amount of space devoted to the current Saturn-Pluto opposition straddling the signs of Gemini and Sagittarius, the signs related to mental discrimination (Gemini), and religion, philosophy and foreign travel (Sagittarius).

Saturn rules karma, the Hindu term which means cause and effect. It rules the laws of physical structure and motion stated by Newton’s Laws, and justice. Pluto, ruler of the sign Scorpio, is associated with transformation. Even with modern astrology’s spiritual and psychological stance, which includes the notion of free will, this opposition is a difficult aspect that brings up some of life’s most difficult issues; control, secrecy, vengeance and power struggles. It is not surprising that astrologers have been touting this current phase as the harbinger of events that might transform (Pluto) the whole structure (Saturn) of our belief system (Gemini and Sagittarius).

Although astrological transits effect our whole planet, this opposition is especially potent for America, who, compared with other older countries with vague foundation dates, has a definite birthday - July 4, 1776. The current Saturn-Pluto opposition, presently at about 14 degrees each sign, is effecting America’s Mars (defense) and Uranus (freedom), which, at our founding were in Gemini, sign of the twins. America’s Mars, at 20 Gemini is square to our Virgo Neptune, planet of spirituality and Oneness, which was also brought into this scenario due to the transit of the Sun at 18 degrees Virgo on September 11. This “triggered” our natal Mars-Neptune Square, and also set off the current Saturn-Pluto opposition. The Moon, when the airplanes took off from Boston at 8.00 am. local time was also at about 20 Gemini, acting as another trigger.

America’s Cancerian Sun is widely conjunct bountiful and expansive Jupiter (this is why we have big houses, big cars and eat a lot) and was being opposed by Mars, planet of aggression and war in Capricorn on that day. President Bush also happens to be a Cancerian, so that this opposition from Mars, in combination with the Saturn-Pluto opposition could easily symbolize an attack on our leader at this time.

Could astrologers have predicted and perhaps helped prevent such a tragic act of terrorism occurring? Many astrologers did in fact warn of some sort of threat to our country at this time, although many like myself preferred to take the less ethically explosive technique of insight rather than prediction. Even Pentagon officials are admitting that this was a serious “blunder” in intelligence. While our natal Mars-Neptune square is being set off, (now until 2004), astrology suggests that we need to beef up security and intelligence in air-travel. Since our Neptune is in Virgo, the sign of health, we would be especially vulnerable to chemical weapons or germ warfare.

But the best way of using this Saturn-Pluto opposition is to investigate (Pluto) the real causes of this apparent rift or division (Gemini) of our ideal brotherhood of man. Judaism and Islam were founded by two brothers (Gemini), Isaac and Ishmael - sons of Abraham. These two religions both gave birth to saviors, Jesus and Mohammed, but the former seems to have flourished in the West, and the latter in the East. Understanding our differences might hopefully prevent the enforced demonstration of one ideology upon the other.

Please visit Barbara’s website at www.angelfire.com/music2/alchemy

EAGLE ROCK SNAPSHOT DAY WANTS YOU!

If you've ever wanted to get to know your community of Eagle Rock, here's your chance. Please join us in creating a committee to organize the 2nd Eagle Rock Snapshot Day, which will take place in spring, 2002.

Four years ago, the inaugural event drew more than 300 participants and was covered by two local news stations and NBC Network News. In the wake of the terrorist attacks, it becomes even more of an imperative to bring our community together in the spirit of fun, and neighborliness. The event, in a nutshell, consists if anyone and everyone going out on a specified date (TBA) and taking pictures of a day in the life of Eagle Rock.

After the participants process their film, they may submit their favorite images to the photo contest portion of the event, in which prizes will be awarded in various categories. The winners will then have their photos displayed around Eagle Rock.

The committee needs people to: coordinate with the area schools to get plenty of student involvement; solicit prizes and processing discounts from local businesses; write press releases to the media; design and distribute flyers and posters; contact local businesses and government leaders for donations of funds, supplies and prizes; find locations to display the winning photos; and finally, we need people who may not think they have any of these skills, but are energetic, have great ideas, and are willing to help out.

Our next meeting will take place at the home of Lori and Michael Pond on Wednesday, October 24 at 7pm. Please call or e-mail Lori for directions and more information. (No calls before 9am or after 10pm, please). (323) 256-1329 or pond@artnet.net.