November 2001

Whazzzup with Walgreens?

by Tom Topping

An October 30 community meeting arranged by FCD Realty & Development Company, Walgreen's Corporation and Councilman Nick Pacheco's 14th district council office invited community members to a community meeting titled, "A NEW WALGREENS PROJECT."

` Upon arrival, attendees were allowed to inspect drawings of the "elevation"(proposed building). After taking their seats, the presentation began. It soon turned into an emotional and heated exchange between community members, the Developers and Walgreen representatives. Although it was stated that the meeting's intention was to present the project plan to the community, the people attending could not agree on what subject they were discussing.

To some, the meeting was about conformance to the Colorado Blvd Specific Plan (legislation written by a group of mostly like minded individuals enacted in August of 1992 affecting all new and some existing uses along Colorado Boulevard).

To others, it was about the process of including local input in the project. Still others thought it was about the rights of property owners to use their property as they deem most appropriate, versus the right of one neighbor to decide what another can do with their property.

The developer has worked with the councilman's office and the city planning department to come up with a design that fits the various planning and zoning requirements, as they interpret them, as well as Walgreens' model of doing business, proven to be successful across the country.

Also, the non-existent design review board, the purpose of which is to ensure community input, that the councilman is required to appoint according to the specific plan, would be only advisory in nature if it did exist.

Representatives at the meeting, did not declare the proposal a done deal. But last month, Community members attending the Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce luncheon board meeting were told by the Councilman's Field Deputy that it was.

Blue Line Blocked

Grade Separations Split Communities

by Tom Topping

"If the ALJ (Administrative Law Judge) sets the precedent that light rail is an underground mode of transportation, that makes light rail, which is typically an at-grade (ground level) transportation solution, into a subway, which you can't build here," said Nathan Baguio, communications director for the LA to Pasadena Metro Blue Line Construction Authority. "It also increases the cost dramatically, to make it not feasible."

What he was talking about is the upcoming California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) hearings regarding 17 grade crossings along the 13.7 mile route. The overarching issue is whether those crossings, where the light rail trains cross city streets, will or won't be required to be separated by bridge or tunnel.

Many of the crossings are already being separated, where traffic and safety issues warrant the expense. Those were determined early on by a lengthy process with input from the Blue Line Authority, the MTA, CPUC staff, and all of the cities along the route. But activists in Pasadena, Highland Park and Mt. Washington have filed protests with the Public Utilities Commission, which regulates all rail crossings in California. Some seek to force the Construction Authority to separate all crossings, citing issues of noise and public safety. (See Highland View Sec. Pg.12)

Since State Senator Adam Schiff sponsored legislation in 1998, creating a new construction authority to complete construction of the L.A. to Pasadena light rail line, work has been progressing with amazing swiftness. A fast tracked construction method called design-build has resulted in tremendous savings of both time and taxpayers money. The Blue Line Construction had submitted 14 applications for approval of crossings nearly a year ago. But the fast pace of construction, and the unforeseen protests have delayed the CPUC grade crossing application process. The CPUC's decision over the crossings will not come until May at the earliest, delaying construction eight months at a cost of $2,000,000 a month.

The Blue Line, last month filed a motion to allow them to start laying tracks across the city streets before the CPUC's decision. They wish to proceed with construction at their own risk, knowing that the trains will never be run over crossings not approved by the commission. They could start laying the tracks right up to the crossings, leaving a gap that would be completed after the final decision, but the process of laying tracks involves heavy machinery that runs on the rails. The ability of the rail laying machinery to traverse the crossings on tracks will save considerable time and money.

No one denies the benefits of rail mass transit, in fact all the protesters support mass transit. The parallel running Pasadena Freeway is gridlocked every day with rush hour commuters. The blue line will result in up to 20,000 less vehicle trips during rush hour. The light rail trains are powered by electricity, resulting in a large local reduction in air pollution. And the ability of rail commuters to use their transit time reading, resting, or studying will contribute significantly to the quality of life of the entire area.

Protesters have developed a very strong case. James Leong, a retired Sony technician has lived next to the tracks for 36 years, is known to speak at the Blue Line public hearings, and seems to have acquired the respect of the Blue Line's board members. He has lobbied on behalf of himself and his neighbors for years to address concerns.

"Construction is really impacting us, the walls are going in much higher than we though they were going to be, we lost a tunnel, we don't have any crossing now," he said. "What we're asking for is it goes below grade, and that's gonna be up to the (C)PUC... If that fails we're going to insist, (we'll) get the whole community out on this one, is to reduce their speed to twenty miles an hour.. they wouldn't have to have gates, wouldn't have to have horns. And I'm only talking about a mile and a half through Highland Park and Mt. Washington."

Joanne Barker, protesting as an individual, is very proficient at the legalese surrounding her efforts. "I know some of the answers I've given you are very complex, but at his particular point in the legal pleadings, I'm in a higher threshold now, and sometimes it's really hard to down shift, and make it simple, because when you've been on a project since '93, you're not in the normal zone of everybody else." She contends that response times to emergency services will be adversely affected by the train crossings. Her Blue Line protests are only part of her long standing efforts to watch over her community. "There's a lot of people here who will not come out and speak because they're illegal, or undocumented. These people will not come out and speak for fear. Somebody has to speak for them and protect their interests."

If you would like to speak for yourself there are two ways to do it. You may send letters to: Hon. Sheldon Rosenthal, Administrative Law Judge, California Public Utilities Commission, 505 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco, CA 94102. At the same address send separate copies to:

Hon. Loretta Lynch. President

Hon. Richard Bilas, Assigned Commissioner,

Hon Henry Duque, Commissioner

Hon. Carl Wood, Commissioner

Hon. Geoffrey Brown, Commissioner

It is recommended that a copy be sent to the Blue Line.

Habib Balian, Chief Administrative Officer, Los Angeles to Pasadena Metro Blue Line Construction Authority, 625 Fair Oaks Avenue, Suite 200, South Pasadena, CA 91030

You can also attend the public hearings. They will be held on November 5th, in Downtown L.A, 320 North 4th Street,

at 10 A.M.

Farmers Market Threatened with Closure

Chamber has records of all payments.

Councilman Pacheco’s Eagle Rock Field Deputy announced last month that the rental of the city owned parking lot, which the Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce pays for the Farmers Market, had not been paid. She said unless it is paid immediately, the Farmers Markets will be shut down. Chamber treasurer Erica Grubert was out of town, and could not be reached. A check was written that day and sent to the city’s Department of Transportation to keep the market open. Soon after Ms. Grubert’s return, copies of the canceled checks were revealed, proving that payments were up to date. No word yet on when and how the city will return the chamber’s overpayment.

Taking Care of Our Own

Ornedo Fundraiser to be held in December

"Ayudandonos Entre Nostros Mismos”

“Cuidando de nuestro propio”

“Ta vare på vårt egent”

“Pag-a-alaga Sa Sariling Atin”

No matter how you say it…it means “Taking Care of Our Own”.

As a result of the national disaster of 9-11, we, and others in this country, are donating billions of dollars in disaster relief. We are donating blood and money. We are donating to the Red Cross, Fireman’s Fund, to the Policeman’s Fund, to the Animal Rescue Fund.

Most of that money is going to the families of the victims of the World Trade Center, the New York City service workers, fireman, policemen, etc. Through a federally mandated program, and dispersed through state governments, victims of a violent crime are entitled to “Victims Compensation”. Survivors and victims families of the Oklahoma bombing received an average of about $10,000, each. Nothing more. Not enough to pay the mortgage raise a child or pay for an education.

Aircraft passengers on the highjacked planes have received a small amount of money from the airlines; they may not receive any more as President Bush declared the hijacking to be “an act of war”. This declaration may negate the airline trip contracts and insurance policies. There may be little chance that survivors of these victims can sue for compensation, and if they do, it will be years before settlement is effected. If fact, it may be necessary for new federal legislation to be enacted before any funds can be disbursed.

The time has come for all members of the Eagle Rock community, all twenty four thousand of us, to “take care of our own.”

Ruben Ornedo, a resident of Eagle Rock, newly married and an expectant father, was a victim on the American Airlines fight 77, when his plane was high jacked and crashed into the Pentagon. Mr. Ornedo left his wife Sheila and a yet unborn child. They too, are now our own.

Members of this community will hold a fundraiser on December 16th, 2001, starting at 4:00pm. at 1941 W. Colorado Blvd, RANTZ Auto Center. We ask each of you to come, individuals, business owners, home owners, friends, families, neighbors. Come and eat and enjoy and donate to the “The Ornedo Family Fund”

All proceeds go directly to Mrs. Ornedo. The organizers will not take out any money for “administration” or “expenses”. Your donations are a gift from one human being to another.” If every member of the community donated only one dollar, we could pay for the child for a year. Five or ten dollars each could mean support for the first five years. The educational funds that have been set up in New York will not fund for eighteen years. Nothing to help Mrs. Ornedo now.

The Festival Fundraiser will feature “A Taste of Eagle Rock’s….Home Cooking” An array of food depicting Eagle Rock’s multi-cultural diversity. All food will be donated, cooked and served by members of our community. Food, desserts, hot and cold drinks.

Join us singing Christmas carols as we travel around the neighborhood asking residents to contribute to the fund as we pass their home.

Just Fun for kids! Piñata’s and Pony rides. Watch your child take a swack at the candy treasure. Watch too as they go round and round on the small pony ride. Bring your cameras and create a family memory.

For the adults! Prizes, Prizes and Prizes. We will raffle prizes every 15 minutes. These prizes have been donates by the individuals and businesses of our community.

Donations of food, help and prizes are needed.

ANYBODY OUT THERE WANT TO DONATE SOMETHING REALLY SPECTACULAR…

A trip to Cancun? A cruise to Ensenada, A car?

We will have a “Grand Prize” worth far more than the one-dollar raffle ticket.

To donate, to volunteer, or for further information, contact Community Helpline, 323, 257-2227, P. O. Box 411613 or e-mail communityhelp4U@yahoo.com.

The Community Helpline, Boulevard Sentinel, and Rantz Auto Center are organizing this event.

Neighborhood Council to Meet

Year’s agenda to be set: November 13

So you say you missed the first two meetings? Ok…as part of a democratic process it's never to late to get involved. Here is a quick review to bring you up-to-date:

On August 1, A Mission Statement was agreed upon. "The mission of the Eagle Rock Neighborhood Council is to assure effective stakeholder participation and interaction in all aspects of the decision making and problem solving process of government in issues that are best for the community."

On September 12, The by-laws which were drafted include an organizational structure of: 5 or 6 Effective Officers elected at large, 4 to 9 Directors representing community organizations and institutions and 8 Sector representatives, making sure all geographical areas of Eagle Rock are represented.

On November 13, the meeting will offer an update on our application with the city to become certified as Neighborhood Council. We will also begin planning our agenda for next year.

Hope to see you at Eagle Rock High School auditorium on November 13 beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Remembering Our Veterans

Editor's note: Excerpts from article ran in the Eagle Rock Sentinel, November 10, 1990

Longtime area resident Jack Tuttle will especially remember his fellow servicemen on Veteran's Day. Although retired from the Navy, Tuttle has a daily reminder every time he drives his car of those who gave their lives for their country. There is a chance you know his car even if you have not met him: Pearl Harbor Survivor 1180!

His ship, the USS Nevada, was tied up along side the USS Arizona during the attack but the crew managed to get her underway to head for open sea. However, the Japanese spotted her as a marvelous target to sink in the narrow channel, which blocked all f Pearl Harbor, "everything was thrown at her - bombs, torpedoes, machine gum fire", Tuttle recalled. She was eventually run aground at what is now named Nevada Point, sinking to her superstructure and having lost half of her crew.

When World War II was over, Tuttle was given shore duty after completing 10 years aboard his home the USS Nevada. During his military career he also was stationed at the Island of Guam during the Korean War. His wife Maxine was allowed to stay on the island with him during this period while she worked for the Navy.

The Tuttles recently celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary and recall when dating they used to take the funnies and sit on top of Eagle Rock reading them on a Sunday afternoon. At the present time, they are active in the Friendly Seniors of Highland Park and have been members of the Occidental United Presbyterian Church of Eagle Rock for 70 years (Maxine and 60 for Jack). The congregation there is the Tuttles heartwarming 'family'.

James and Maxine have kept a thought in their hearts for all these many years - the thought is anonymous - it truly reflects December 11, 1941:

I REMEMBER PEARL HARBOR

Eagle Vista Seniors

On November 6, following the 9:30 a.m. board meeting, the new officers slate will be presented for the coming year. After the election is held Charles Wiley will speak in "Accuracy in the Media". Birthday cake will be served for those members born in November.

No meeting on November 13, however, members over 90 years old will be honored by the Federation of California Seniors at Friendship Hall located on Riverside Drive.

Thanksgiving will be celebrated at Beadle's Cafeteria on November 15, Thursday, in Pasadena, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Cost: $9.00 members, $14.20 guests.

On November 20, thanks to Program Chairmen Mel and Virginia Paulson, singer Daryl Spencer will perform.

BINGO! On November 27, Mel Paulson, caller.

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.

Art Luck and other Cultural Center Happenings

The Main Gallery at the Eagle Rock Cultural Center is proud to have Japanese Paper Cuts by artist Paula Broussard on display Monday thru Friday from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. There will be a reception held on Saturday, November 3 from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

On Sunday, November 4, the Golden Gate Theater Evening Concert will feature, beginning at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $10, seniors, students and children $5. For information please contact (626) 795-4989.

Sunday open Sunday. The art of Japanese paper cutout, with this month's featured artist Paula Broussard will be held on Sunday, November 11. Fee: $25 general public and $20 members. Call 226-1617 for additional information.

Food Drive

St. Dominic Student Council is proud to be sponsoring a Food Drive. The Food Drive that started November 1 will run through November 20. Donations may be of canned items such as vegetables, soups, meats, fruit, tunas and boxed items such as pastas, sugars, cereals and crackers. Toiletry items are also in need for the Drive.

All donations may be left at the school office located at 2005 Merton Avenue in Eagle Rock.

Items donated will be presented to the Cathedral of our Lady of the Angels, for the "Adopt a Family" Program.

Optimist Home News

Prospective foster parents and those just wondering what foster parenting is still all about are welcome to visit the Optimist Foster Family and Adoption Services' booth at the Westfield Shoppingtown (Eagle Rock Plaza) on Friday, November 2 (3 to 6 p.m.) and Saturday, November 3 (12 to 4 p.m.)

Family developers will be available to answer questions and provide an overview of the process and requirements of becoming a foster parent. Information will also be available about upcoming orientations and foster parent training classes.

For more details about the 2-day information booth, please contact Mark A. Levi at (323) 341-5561 ext 217.

Wild About Reading in Lincoln Heights

The Lincoln Heights public library invites you to join "Amazing Adaptations" on November 20 at 3.30 p.m. when the ZooMobile will visit the library with LIVE animals!

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

Friends of the Eagle Rock Library

The Friends of the Eagle Rock Library will hold their monthly meeting on Tuesday, November 13.

Wild about Reading will be presenting "Storytellers and Troubadours" on November 15 and join the excitement November 29 for "Harry Potter Fun Day". Both events begin at 3:30 p.m.

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

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, November 20, join us for the Wonderworld Puppets when they present the play "Froggie Meets the Wizard" along with a magic show and a celebration of Harry Potter. The fun starts at 3:30.

The Cypress library is located at 3320 Pepper Ave.

Lincoln Heights Branch Library

Library service in the Lincoln Heights community began at the turn of the century. In 1900, a delivery station at Daly Street and Pasadena Avenue was established by the Los Angeles Public Library, following a successful petition by residents who wanted a facility. The small book station was so successful that three years later another branch was opened at 2609 East Main Street. As library use continued to grow, the two facilities merged and combined with another smaller branch to become the North East Branch Library.

The Carnegie Building

In 1916, a new Italian renaissance style building was built at the corner of Workman Street and Avenue 26 for the North East Branch Library. This was one of the Carnegie Libraries, developed with funds provided by the philanthropic East Coast millionaire. Modeled after the Villa Papa Guilia in Rome, the distinctive structure featured an expansive main floor and a basement auditorium. The building was later designated a Los Angeles City Historic Cultural Monument and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The library quickly became integral to the life of the community. By November 1919, the surrounding district had assumed the name of Lincoln Heights, and the library therefore became the Lincoln Heights Branch. In 1975, a community vote renamed the facility Biblioteca del Pueblo de Lincoln Heights.

In February 1990, the building was closed in compliance with the Los Angeles City Building and Safety Commission's earthquake hazard reduction order. One month later the building reopened in temporary quarters at 2217 North Broadway. Eventually the facility received permission to return to the location at Workman and Avenue 26, where it still remains open today.

Crusin with Conrad

Hello Eagle Rock,

What a neat place the Santa Paula Airport is. Every first Sunday of the month the airport has an open house. So the club went up there on October 7. We had a nine-car caravan, plus two friends from Ventura County met us there where the park had airplanes on display.

Many old airplanes, Piper Cubs, Euro coupes, Biplanes and different aerobatic type planes are on display. Sure brought back a lot of childhood memories of the Black hills airport in South Dakota.

Several of the hangers have (sprint) racecars, street rods and restored cars. In addition to many private museums in the hangers, from Airplane memorabilia to race car stuff to a neat radio museum with hundreds of old wood and bakelite cased radios.

All said twenty of us had a good time.

Halloween cruise night was overwhelming, more than seventy cars over the night. We had cars parked everywhere!

Thanks to Cathy Vacca, we had an orange and black balloon arch over one of the driveways, at about thirty feet tall. Many thanks to the members who helped decorate Jim's. Many people came in costumes, from cowboys to witches, and the fifties bad lad look to the Foxiest looking she-devil you ever saw.

Charlie Fisher brought his early 20's Model T fire truck and Station 42 had to have a picture of their fire truck parked by Charlie's T. Nice contrast of 80 years.

All had a good time.

Just crusin',

Conrad

Achievement Recognition

The College Board in recognition of their exceptional achievement on the college-level AP Exams has named eleven students at Eagle Rock High School AP Scholars. Only about 13% of the more than 840,000 students in 13,680 schools who took AP Exams in May 2001 performed at a sufficiently high level to merit such recognition. The College Board recognizes several levels of achievement based on the number of year (or semester) long courses and exams.

Only one student at Eagle Rock High School qualified for the National AP Scholar Award by earning an average grade of 4 or higher on all AP Exams taken, and grades of 4 or higher on eight or more of these exams. This student is Lea Hildebrandt, currently a senior. Lea has been awarded the fourth annual Siemens Awards for Advanced Placement for Students.

Two students qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average grade of at least 3.5 on all AP exams taken and grades of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. These students are Lea Hildebrandt and Evan Rushton (currently a freshman at Caltech).

Nine students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Examinations with grades of 3 or higher. The AP Scholars are: Mylene Flojo, Alicia Frescas, James Gutierrez, Danielle Jovanelly, Christine Lazo, Diane Louie, John Pan, George Siu, and Erika Villaruel. These students all graduated from ERHS in June 2001.

The students will receive $3,000 scholarships and plaques at an award ceremony held at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. on December 2, 2001. Two national winners will receive an additional $5,000 scholarship at that ceremony. The Siemens Foundation and the College Board are honored to recognize the academic excellence of those students taking the challenging courses offered by the College Board's Advanced Placement Program.

Free Flu Shots!!!

Attention seniors (over 60) and those with chronic illnesses: Come get your free flu shots from 9 to 11 a.m. on Monday, November 5 at the Arroyo Vista Family Health Care Center located at 6000 North Figueroa Street on the second floor.

Last year, over 300 people received the 'flu' vaccination and took advantage of free health education about physical activity and other topics. This year, the center is expecting to inform over 500 high-risk people about the importance of the vaccination.

The best time to get a flu shot is October to mid-November because flu season peaks between late Dec. to early March.

For additional information, please call 254-5221 ext 220 or 204

Sacred Heart Church

For the last 116 years Sacred Heart Church has been one of the looms weaving the fabric of Lincoln Heights. At the time the church was built less than 100,000 people lived in Los Angeles. The Spanish American War had not been fought and the fastest way to get from Pasadena to downtown Los Angeles was a wooden bikeway.

Sacred Heart, built to serve the Los Angeles subdivision of Lincoln Heights, has been used by wave after wave of migrants who contributed and used the church as a base around which to build their lives and community. Thirty years ago the San Fernando earthquake damaged the structure and although the parish was able to seismically retrofit the church, funds were lacking to raise the 104-year-old bell to the tower and replace the steeple. With a threat of the bell being taken from the church, a committee was formed and a fund drive established to reinstall the bell in the tower and to reconstruct the steeple.

Given the historical and cultural significance Sacred Heart Church has to Lincoln Heights, this church now turns to the local business community for help in their efforts to accomplish these goals.

The needs are immediate. The cost of installing the bell alone is $30,000 and to date $12,000 has been raised. With a mere $18,000 needed for this part of the project. The church is now inviting you, its community to help to contribute to the fund drive and be a part of the restoration effort of Sacred Heart

Church.

All donations are tax deductible and can be sent to Sacred Heart Church Bell Fund, 2210 Sichel Street, LA, CA 90031. For further information please contact Jose Garcia at 221-6466 or Mike Diaz at 225-0347.

Keeping Fit

Keeping Fit classes for people who want to get in shape and stay in shape are available every Monday and Wednesday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Eagle Rock Presbyterian Church located at Addison Way and Eagle Rock Boulevard. The cost is $3.00 per class. For additional information please contact Lynda (your instructor) at (818) 249-3518.

Eastside Entrepreneur Training Program

When Carlos Rivera, an Eastside Entrepreneur Training Program graduate, received a $5,000 SBA micro-loan on September 14, he couldn't hide his excitement and the appreciation for the Eastside Business Assistance Center. He is now ready to start the operation of his home-based janitorial business - Edna's Maintenance, which is operated by Barrio Planners Incorporated in association with the East LA Community Corporation.

The Eastside Entrepreneur Training Program is funded by the City of Los Angeles, Community Development Department. Its eight-week class is designed to teach new current and future business owners how to success-fully establish and operate a business. The class is free if the participant resides in the East/Northeast/Downtown Los Angeles area and is a low-to-moderate income individual.

The program has been a big success since its inception last November. At press time, the E-ETP has completed four sessions and graduated eighty-four students. Graduates have already established six new businesses. Students described the program as "invaluable", "building self-reliance", and "a life changing experience." As commented by Michelle Garcia-Gorman, an E-ETP graduate, "the Eastside Entrepreneur Training Program has provided me with a wealth of information and assistance in my quest to start my own business. I would highly recommend the classes to anyone aspiring to open their own businesses."

8-Week Course meets once a week includes the following topics:

· Business Concept Development · Developing a Marketing Plan

· Business Setup · Bookkeeping

· Developing a Business Plan · Basic Computer Operation

· Financial Planning/Money Management · E-Commerce

The next training class will start on November 14 and restart approximately every 10 weeks thereafter. For more information about the Eastside Entrepreneur Training Program, please contact Becky Jiang or Mauro Medina at (323) 726-7734.

Reducing the Risk of Hypertension

By Genine Sauer

High Blood Pressure (hypertension) affects an estimated 50 million Americans. Left untreated, hypertension can be a major cause of heart disease, stroke and kidney disease. However, it usually produces no symptoms in the early stages.

Although there is no single cause for most cases, lifestyle characteristics such as obesity, excessive drinking, smoking and physical activity play key roles.

Health experts' recommend all adults and children have their blood pressure measured periodically.

It is recommended that you make changes gradually such as decreasing salt intake, walking, and snacking on fruits and vegetables instead of junk food.

Barristers best the Eagles

by Andrea Calvillo

On Friday October 25, the Eagles met up against the Barristers on the Marshall Homefield. The Barristers were the first team on the board. By the end of the 1st quarter, the Eagles were down by 4 after a field goal by the kicker Paul Gutterrez. After another touchdown by the Marshall running back, the Eagles were down by 11 at the end of the half when the score was 14 - 3.

In the 3rd quarter the Eagles charged back with a 26 yard run by the running back Andrew Butler. Then, the Eagles added to the score again on a 30 yard hook and lateral pass from Luis Estrada to Mario Munoz. This trick play gave the Eagles their only lead of the game at 17-14. I

In the 4th quarter the Eagles were unable to answer the two touchdowns by the Barristers. At the end of the game the Barristers came out on top by the score of 30-17.

Free Thanksgiving Dinner

On November 22nd, Thanksgiving Day, the Fraternal Order of Eagle will be holding its annual free Thanksgivings Dinner. Each year, more people are served at this popular event. The club expects to serve 350 dinners this year.

Thanksgiving Dinner Donations

By Marty Barba, Worthy President

We are currently asking for donations to help out with our annual Free Thanksgiving Dinner on Thursday, November 22 at the Eagles Hall in Eagle Rock.

The organizations that are able to donate will become a sponsor of the dinner. Thank you for acknowledging our efforts and please note that your contribution is tax deductible!

Eagles Events

Come to the Eagles Hall this Saturday, November 3 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. for the 4th Annual Children's DNA/Fingerprint Clinic.

This event is open to the public and refreshments for participants will be provided.

The ladies breakfast will be held on Sunday, November 4 and the men's breakfast will be two weeks later on November 18.

The Fraternal Order of Eagles Ladies Auxiliary Annual Craft Faire has finally arrived! Scheduled for November 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. many local artisans will be selling their crafts, unique gifts and decorations in preparation for the holidays. As always there will be 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.

Turkey Shoot and Dinner

The Eagle Rock Sportsmen's Club, a non-profit organization, is now seeking prize donations from local businesses for their annual Turkey Shoot and Dinner, to be held on November 17, at the Eagles Hall, 1596 Yosemite Drive. This event draws hundreds of your neighbors and customers each year, and this year will be no exception.

Donations are requested in the form of goods, services, discounts or gift certificates. In return for your support, we will identify each gift you donated as coming from your establishment when it is awarded to the winner.

The Sportsmen's Club thanks you for your generous gift, and we look forward to seeing you at the Turkey Shoot.

Poets, Grooves and Bowling Team up at All Star Lanes

Xicano poet ”extraordinaire” Lil Rudy G & the Chizmosos, rock’n’ranters Lies Like Truth and "retro active" groovemeisters The Brahe Sound Affair will perform Saturday, November 10th at 8 p.m. at the All Star Lanes, 4459 Eagle Rock Blvd. in Eagle Rock.

Lil Rudy and his band will be celebrating the release of the CD

compilation from the Showtime series Resurrection Boulevard, which features the band’s material. Lies Like Truth, a long time L.A. spoken word stalwart returns to its beat/noir hijinks after a year long hiatus and The Brahe Sound Affair will demonstrate what happens when Booker T and the MG'S meets Austin Powers. The cover for the show is Ten Dollars. No one under 21 will be admitted.

For more information contact 323/254-2579.

Author Gish Jen to visit Oxy

Gish Jen, author of such critically acclaimed works as "Typical American" and "Mona in the Promised Land," will discuss her work at 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 6 in Johnson 200 on the Occidental campus. Jen's appearance is being sponsored by the college's Intercultural Speakers Series.

Considered one of the most prominent Asian American writers of our time, Jen's cosmopolitan, trans-cultural and easy-going style differs markedly from earlier generations of Asian American authors. In her novel "Typical American," a New York Times notable book of the year and a finalist for the National Book Critics' Circle Award, Jen charts the progress of Ralph Chang, whose hope turns to despair after he immigrates to the United States from China. The sequel, bestseller "Mona in the Promised Land," was also a Times notable book and has been praised for its recognition of ethnic identity as its cultural diversity. The work centers on the life of Ralph's teenage daughter, Mona.

The Times calls Jen "an essential writer for our time, a writer who moves and entertains us as she updates the American Dream." Her characters "seem to be trying on their lives for size: discomfiting to observe, though at the same time, offering the reader a sadness convincingly tinged with humor."

Jen's work has appeared in The New Yorker, The New York Times, Atlantic Monthly and The New Republic, as well as in a variety of anthologies, including "The Best American Short Stories of the Century" She has written two collections of short stories: "In the American Society," and "Who's Irish?"

Jen was born and grew up in Scarsdale, a predominantly Jewish community in suburban New York. Her work includes depictions of Jewish Americans, African Americans and Irish Americans. Jen is a second generation Chinese American and a graduate of Harvard University, where she earned a degree in English. After studying law at Stanford University for a year, she dropped out to teach English in a coal-mining city in northwest China.

Gish is Jen's chosen pen name, a pseudonym she created while on an archaeological dig in Pennsylvania for the National Science Foundation. Her real name is Lillian, and she chose the name Gish after silent movie actress Lillian Gish.

For more information, contact Arthe Anthony at (323) 259-2579.

Palette to Palate

The Arroyo Arts Collective, a grassroots community artists' organization in Northeast Los Angeles, proudly presents:"9th Annual Discovery Tour - "Palette to Palate" - a self-guided auto tour of art and food in Highland Park, Eagle Rock and Mount Washington on Sunday, November 18, 2001 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tour goers will see a representation of creative styles ranging from traditional plein air painting to cutting edge computer art while getting to know artists in unique studio settings ranging from storefronts and funky garages to landmark Craftsman homes scattered through the hills of Los Angeles' earliest bohemian district. A comprehensive map will feature directions to local galleries including Avenue 50 Studio, Gallery Figueroa and Rock Rose Gallery, as well as to both trendy and long-established neighborhood eateries and coffeehouses. Oranges& Sardines will participate in the Arts Collective Discovery Tour again this year. The window gallery will feature a Day of the Dead Altar, (next)--->>

>>(from October 28), done in collaboration with Ricardo Reyes and local students. The studios will be open as well; you can enter from the patio off Avenue 54.

The Collective is also publishing a collection of recipe cards designed by neighborhood artists including Mike Kelley and Kim Dingle, among others, which will be available for purchase.

Over 60 artists and artisans will be included with a tour starting at the Lummis Home, 200 East Avenue 43 in Highland Park. A preview party will be held on Friday, November 16 from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Gallery Figueroa, located at 6122 N. Figueroa in Highland Park.

Tickets are available for $10 in advance at arroyoartscollective.org or at Galco's Old World Grocery, 5702 York Boulevard, Highland Park. Last minute tickets for $15 will be available at the Lummis Home, the day of the Tour.

For additional information please visit their website at arroyoartscollective.org or call (323) 850-8566.

Sangeet offers a World of Music

International Performing Artists from 4 continents will be performing special concerts, to show how creative explorations of rich musical traditions from the Middle East, India, Eastern Europe and America can be enjoyed by all.

Join us for an evening of artistic expression reaching across boundaries of politics culture and faith of November 30, 8:00 p.m. at the Eagle Rock Cultural Center. Tickets $15, College students $10. For additional information please call the Sangeet School at 258-1424.

Harold Pinter’s “Other Places” to play at OXY

The Occidental College Department of Theater will present "Other Places," a trio of one-act plays by absurdist playwright Harold Pinter, at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday, Nov. 7-10 in the College's Keck Theater. A matinee performance will be staged at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 11. General admission tickets are $8. Student admission is $3, and tickets are $6 for senior citizens and Occidental faculty and staff.

Pinter is considered one of the preeminent dramatists to emerge

after World War II. His more than 70 works are known for themes of menace, erotic fantasy, obsession and jealousy, family hatred and mental disturbance. Pinter employs silence, understatement and cryptic small talk to raise tension levels. His characters are often set in a single room and are threatened by forces or people with unclear intentions. Pinter does not offer explanations, instead giving peeks of bizarre or terrible moments in his characters' lives.

"Other Places" was initially staged in 1982 and includes the works "Family Voices," a drama portraying a mother, her dead husband and an absent son; "Victoria Station," a comic exchange between a cab driver and his dispatcher; and "A Kind of Alaska," a work inspired by Oliver Sacks' "Awakenings," an account of patients suffering from sleeping sickness. Oxy theater Professor John Bouchard is directing the performances.

For more information or to buy tickets, please call (323)

259-2922. Group rates are available.

Love Travel, Fear Flying

Dave Wyman, nature/outdoor photographer and author (Backroads of California), presents: "California: Photographing the Golden State" at Clickers & Flickers' photo dinner, scheduled for Wednesday, November 14. Wyman will also discuss what it takes to photograph and write a book with a scope that covers half of the Poppy State.

Tickets are $45 and Reservations are required at least 3 days in advance, as this event, which will be held at the Beverly Garland's Holiday Inn, 4222 Vineland Ave., No. Hollywood, often sells out. (626) 794-7447.

Mt Washington Association Meeting

Report on Blue Line Hearings Scheduled

On Monday November 19, the last scheduled public meeting of the Mt Washington Association will take place at the Carlin G. Smith Recreation Center, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Info: 222-8327

SLEEPING WITH SKUNKS

by Sandy Carro

Being an intelligent and prudent adult, I assure you that I had no desire for a close encounter with a Mustelid. Rather, I was drawn into an incident that with out my intervention, would surely result in the death of a young skunk. As a Licensed Veterinary Nurse, I had often taken the lead in wildlife rescues, but never before had I been required to sleep in the same room with a skunk.

Newly separated from its Mother, the young animal had made a very bad decision by entering my neighbors house. The smell of chicken spilling from a small hole near the foundation overwhelmed its senses, and it could not resist entering the dark and silent house. Leaving the house proved to be more difficult.

The call came very early in the A.M. and the message was clear: my neighbor was barricaded in an upstairs bedroom. The night before, something had scratched, clawed and bitten its way through every room in her house. I assured my neighbor that, of course, I would investigate.

Moving quietly from room to room, I utilized all of my senses.

(Please See SKUNK, Page 14)

SKUNK continued

Slowly descending the stairs, I observed what appeared to be carpet fibers piles along the length of the sliding glass doors. Examining the area more closely, I saw what looked like long scratch marks in the carpet. Something had tried to dig its way out. Standing up, new information teased my brain. There was an odor, faint enough to be barely discernible. I knew that odor: one of my dearest wild friends had smelled that way, even after a bath in the kitchen sink. Certainty flooded my consciousness; I was in the company of a skunk.

Un-settling as this may sound, I was not alarmed. Skunks seldom spray, and then, only when left no alternative. My job, should I find this little one, was to assist in accomplishing its only goal: escape. How, I hadn't a clue.

My first problem was to clam my neighbor. She had called everyone she knew for advice, and despite my re-assurances, her panic grew.

"All the skunk needs is a little darkness, a quiet house, and a way out", I assured. Despite my experience and credentials, her manic phone calls continued. She called friends, neighbors, and co-workers. She called the LAPD, the ASPCA, and the Fire Department.

Returning to the downstairs, my search was rewarded. A young female skunk was doing head stands in a corner of the room, where she had attempted to become one with the clutter. Her posture more than a threat, she was fully armed, and ready to blow. Retreating slowly, I turned sideways and avoided eye contact so as to be as non-threatening as possible.

"I'm so sorry I frightened you", I told her in my gentlest voice. To my relief, she released her headstand and collapsed into the carpet. OK, I thought, we can work this out together. Quietly, I moved about the room, closing doors and access to other rooms. Now I had her contained. The next step, was to build a barrier, one that lead to the sliding glass doors and freedom. I had a plan, and I knew it would work.

Hurrying up the stairs, and out the front door, I was greeted by a N.E.P.D. Officer. Introducing myself and telling him of my plan, he agreed to assist me, stressing the "assist". Moments later, he & I crept silently down the stairs, the officer bringing up the rear. Slowly removing the clutter which had become the skunks only shelter, I handed things off to my helper. The distance between the animal and me, was not more than two feet, and with each movement, the skunk cringed. The stressful process was taking too long. Handing off the last item, I saw that the situation was a bit much for assistant too, who was now dripping sweat. Hurrying him up the stairs, I thanked him for his courageous help.

Leaving for a quick meal, I reassured my Neighbor that I would return soon, confident that within an hour of darkness, my little skunk would follow our path to freedom, and the warm, fragrant night air. Returning an hour later, I was horrified to see that my neighbor had shut and locked the glass door that was to be the skunks escape route.

"Oh, no", I shrieked, rushing to reopen it. To my surprise, the young animal was waiting by the door. Rushing to open it, I realized that the door was off its track, and instead of sliding open, it noisily rocked back and forth. To my amusement, the skunk stood, tail down, watching first my hands, and then the small gap which opened enticingly. Again and again I tried, but it refused to open. Frustrated, she returned to the darkness under the bed, dragging her tail behind her. Standing in the twilight, I was overwhelmed by the sweetness of what had just occurred: she had understood my intentions, and I hers. We had shared the most intimate of moments.

I slowly climbed the stairs, trying to control my irritation with my Neighbor. She had asked for help, used up my day, and now had sabotaged my efforts.

"The exterminator will be here soon", she told me. After lengthy negotiations, it became clear to me that only my continuous presence would assure the animals safety. Slipping quietly into the downstairs bed, I could hear the little one below me, smelling deeply of my human scent. Smiling, I drifted off.

By dawn, the little one had moved on, following her nose to the can of tuna that I had placed outside the door. After eating her fill, she must have drunk the water I had left, because the last of saw of her were perfect little skunk prints in the mud, leading to the Walnut groves of Mount Washington. It was lovely of her to leave me a little sign. I would expect nothing less from a friend.

Booster Seat Fitting

Free Booster Seats will be available to low income status families on November 7th from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at the Babies R Us store located at 7886 N. Van Nuys Blvd. In Van Nuys.

If you feel you may qualify, contact Boost America at (800) 528-2444, for additional information or check out their website at www.boostamerica.org.

Emergency Management Events

BIOEX 2001 is the subject of this Los Angeles Operational Area Exercise scheduled for November 15. In preparation of this exercise, the operation will coordinate an orientation program for all 88 Los Angeles cities.

For further information please contact the Emergency Preparedness Department at (213) 978-0532.

Hiana Pharmacy Reopens

After the sudden and surprising closure of Hiana Pharmacy 2 months ago, patrons were worried and wondering what had happened to their friend Sarita, owner and pharmacist. Unfortunately, Sarita had to leave, going to New York to tend to her sister who is very ill. Wanting her customers to be well taken care of,. she has located new people to take over the business. It is now called Colorado Medical Pharmacy, and is maintaining all previous customer records to continue to provide the kind of service you have learned to like for years.