Turkeys & Eagles

Eagle Rock California - November 24, 2004 - Volunteers at the Fraternal Order of Eagles prepare turkeys for their annual free dinner. 25 of the birds were cooked on this day, and 350 dinners were served the next. Here, Max Norris pulls a turkey out of the deep fryer, while Ahmed Eshaq lifts the lid. Looking on is Gordon Odell, right, and Dan Rimboi, rear.

Playgrounds
into Parking Lots?
Will converting schoolyards solve Eagle Rock's parking woes? Or is it all for nothing?
by Tom Topping
The next phase of the revitalization of Eagle Rock is underway. At a presentation last month for "Eagle Rock Leaders," representatives of "Civic Enterprise Associates" (CEA) informed about the possible future of Eagle Rock's Commercial areas. Although Eagle Rock folks have heard many presentations over the last seven years relating to commercial revitalization, parking and specific plans, this one was different.
Instead of studying and addressing the various problems of urban planning separately, this really was the first effort to take a comprehensive look at the "big picture." The areas of discussion included in this presentation were the reasons behind current development patterns; the goals of the Colorado Blvd. Specific Plan passed by the City Council in 1992, versus the actual consequences of that plan; what kind of planning could actually achieve those goals; and specifically what projects could come out of this planning.
Jim Favaro of CEA started with an explanation of why urban development patterns are what they are. For years the 'American Dream' has been a house and a yard in an all residential zone. From there, homeowners drive their automobiles to large parking lots at shopping centers. The uses are separate and nobody walks. This is why commercial areas look much the same throughout the country. This was compared to more urban areas like New York City where people walk everywhere, and few people even own cars.
Specific Plan Do’s and Don'ts
Eyebrows were raised, and a general feeling of alarm rose up as the Favaro condemned the Colorado Specific Plan, saying that while the intentions were good, the document actually prevents the type of development that would fulfill those same intentions. The open space, setback and density requirements, to name only a few, would make financially unfeasible the type of development that would fulfill the Specific Plan's objectives (When a shortened presentation was given later that month at the Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce meeting, the general feeling was more 'I told you so' than alarm- they never had much liked the Specific Plan from the start). Favaro said the plan did, however, stop the proliferation of mini malls and auto repair shops which was to be desired.
 

Occidental College, Eagle Rock, November 8, 2004 - Jim Favaro of Civic Enterprise Associates points out possible modifications to Colorado Boulevard intersections. They are intended to slow down traffic and promote pedestrian activity.

Boulevard Too Wide?
Next addressed was the boulevard itself, specifically the traffic, the width and how it relates to pedestrians. We all know that Colorado Boulevard is a very busy street. The presentation compared the width of the boulevard to a football field, noting that a football field is 160 feet across, and from property line to property line, Colorado is 140 feet wide (actually, it is 96 feet from curb to curb). This situation is very pedestrian unfriendly, as it makes crossing the boulevard a 'take your life in your own hands' proposition.
A possible solution, they said, is to narrow the boulevard down to two lanes each way, double the width of the sidewalk, and jut out the sidewalks at intersections and crosswalks to reduce the actual crossing distance for pedestrians from 100 feet down to about 60 feet. Of course, never mind the Hill drive residents who would be panicked if they suddenly found traffic overflowing to their usually serene street.
Town Centers
Explained next was the Town Center concept, and it is an interesting one, as well as extremely logical. It seems that it is human nature to not want to walk any more than ¼ mile from where you park, while patronizing shopping or entertainment destinations. Onlookers were shown a map of Eagle Rock that had a ¼ mile radius superimposed over the intersection of Eagle Rock Blvd. and Colorado, as well as Colorado and Townsend Ave. These areas would need sizable parking lots to bring patrons within walking distance of these 'village' areas, presumably brimming with coffee houses, juice joints, boutiques and book stores.
The town centers are dependent upon three things; pedestrians, parking lots and townhouses.
Connecting Townhouse Courts & Parking Lots
As I understand it, the presentation by Civic Enterprise Associates was designed to be as comprehensive and "Big Picture" as possible. To actually provide parking, promote pedestrian use and pay for it, they say, must be done just as comprehensively.
Townhouses on the east coast are very commonplace. They bring life down to a street level, and provide 24 hour customers to local businesses. People on the west coast are not used to this type of living. They are, however, familiar with courts. The presentation showed court style townhouses from Spain, and drawings of how this concept might look if built in Eagle Rock as more contemporary condominiums.
We looked a drawings of two lots specifically, that could be made into "high end" townhouse courts. Jim's Burgers and Rantz Automotive were lots on the corner of Shearin Ave. and Colorado Blvd., picked to represent possible future town house sites. The courts would share a common 'open space' garden area. Again, the Specific Plan was admonished as making impossible a project that would both suit the intentions of the plan, and be financially viable if the projects were to be successful. As an example, 11 unit townhouses would have to be built on a lot that size as opposed to the 8 which would currently be allowed. Approximately 100 to 200 of such units would be proposed for the boulevard areas.
You are probably wondering, "what about the parking?" Well, although it wasn't too clear at first, the town house developments would pay for the parking. Instead of providing all the required parking on-site for the townhouses, the offsite parking would be paid for by developers and they would be allowed to use those spaces to satisfy the city's parking requirements. That is why so many units would have to be built, so all the offsite parking could add up and pay for a real parking structure. And now you may be asking, "but where could such parking be built?"
Because this is a common question these days throughout the country, it has received tremendous amounts of thought and effort from all sides. The best minds in the country, believe it or not, have come up with this answer. Joint Use Facilities. It is no accident that the areas Civic Enterprise Associates designated for huge parking structures are school yards. In their presentation they show an illustration of a 3 level parking stucture at both St. Dominic's School and Eagle Rock Elementary. This includes the playground area on the top level. There is a new wave of cooperation between schools and communities being discussed in education, government and community groups.
This, from the "New Schools Better Neighborhoods" web site, "The idea of joint-use--generically meaning the development of K-12 schools in combination with other facilities--is key to making schools the centers of their neighborhoods. Today, most educational facilities operate during a 7-8 hour time frame as stand alone institutions with limited access or joint use by other community organizations. New school facilities should be accessible--day and night, all year round--to the community." (http://www.nsbn.org/case/jointuse)
This concept is being embraced throughout educational and planning and development circles. Even our own State Senator and new State Education Chair Jack Scott, has said "...If a facility could be used by a school district, and a facility can be used by the city and they can jointly work out between the two of them how they can be used, then the taxpayer's a winner, the school's a winner, the city's a winner. Everybody's a winner!"
It seems that these 'new' and 'revolutionary' solutions for the parking and pedestrian dilemmas are, while still a novelty, actually riding a wave of popularity these days. The concept seems to answer most of the questions and concerns that most people have thought of. But not all.
It seems like a wonderful idea to live in a mixed use commercial and residential area. The positive aspects are there, no doubt. But as a person who has lived in such a building, I can testify personally about the negatives, as well. The trash trucks that empty the dumpsters daily always show up between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. You haven't lived until you've been jolted awake at that hour by the sound of dumping dumpsters. Late night coffee houses, fast food joints and bars often have noisy people congregating right at the time you are trying to get to sleep. Cleaning crews brandishing un-muffled leaf blowers arrive at 6:30 in the morning and seem to rejoice in the notion that no one should be allowed to sleep when they can't.
Forget about getting any relief from the City. A little noise, though a clear violation of the municipal code, is something the police are just too busy to address, and no one in building and safety, or the councilman's office, is interested in getting out that early or late anyway.
You know, there just might be a reason why the apartments are sort of cheap on the boulevard.
We will be sure to let you know where to apply for residency in one of these half a million dollar townhouses as soon as that information becomes available.

Skatepark in Limbo
by Paul Thomas
 Last I heard the Garvanza Skatepark in Highland Park was rolling forward. The budget was in place, and the votes had been cast overwhelmingly in favor of a concrete design.
As it turns out, the park may now be composed of red tape, rather than concrete. Unbeknownst to many, The Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council (HHPNC) has organized an Adhoc Skatepark Committee to meet with City Council, the engineers, and others involved with the process.
I discovered this after being tipped off at the last minute about a skatepark meeting in Eagle Rock on November 15. Eagle Rock? A skatepark in Eagle Rock?
Confused upon arrival, I asked Rick Albaniz, a local activist, what was going on. "It's the Garvanza Skatepark," he informed me. "this is the second time we've had to meet here (Eagle Rock City Hall)."
"I thought that was done deal," I said. A series of shrugs and shaking heads from people entering the room indicated no, apparently not.
"This is the first time I've seen a councilman who was not willing to meet with his constituents," Albaniz added.
"You mean Councilman Villaraigosa is not going to be here?" I inquired.
"No. We've been waiting seven months with unanswered questions."
Come to think of it, the once omnipresent councilman has scarcely been seen around Northeast L.A. in recent months. He seemingly began to fade into the background right around the time he announced his mayoral candidacy.
It's just a coincidence, I'm sure. Regardless, The Garvanza skatepark seems to be in a sort of limbo at the moment.
With Dr. Stan Moore serving as president, an offshoot of the Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council was formed when communication broke down: The HHPNC Adhoc Skatepark Committee. The idea was to keep tabs on the park's progress, keep channels open between neighborhood and city councils, as well as all other parties concerned.
What they got this night was District 14 Field Representative Monica Garcia, her supervisor Lisa Sarno, and project engineer Robert Gutierrez. They offered mostly vague answers to mostly specific questions.
About 15 cold metal chairs were put in a tight circle, and everyone was asked to introduce themselves and sign in. With this went my only remaining chance of just being a fly on the wall. Oh well.
Putting her public speaking and N.L.P. skills to good use, Sarno sounded very official as she agressively prated about landscaping hold-ups, "sky-rocketing costs," and meetings with other groups. She also cited that there were definitely people opposed to the project.
"How many people?" asked Nancy, a local resident.
"20% are opposed," offered Gutierrez.
"But in numbers. That's vague," Nancy persisted.
No answer. Moving on.
Residents and the neighborhood council feel that they have not had any input as far as the design process goes, despite the trio's insistence that they were "not shutting anybody out." Nonetheless a designer was chosen without the neighborhood's actual blessing.
It was a double blow for them when Gutierrez confessed that this particular designer has never even done a skatepark before. He was quick to mention that he has, however, designed a park in the vicinity previously.
"Yeah, the one that didn't have drains that worked," Rick Albaniz observed.
"We've been asking to be involved in the design process," another disgruntled resident complained.
"We've been available." was all Sarno could offer in return.
There are apparently other groups that the city council is in contact with. They refused to specify who and why though, when asked.
They are supposedly in contact with an actual skater or two, as well. None of them were at this meeting, though.
As tension in the room began to mount, Sarno proclaimed that she's "trying to get something for everyone." Now there's an idea. An idea that usually doesn't work very well.
Back in May, there was a $703,000 budget and the project was good to go. There would be kids skating in the park somewhere between March and July 2005 - depending on whom you asked.
"There's no difference in the numbers. There's been confusion in the interpretation," insisted Sarno. With all the different figures being tossed around this night, there was definitely confusion.
It seems that there may have been some landscape oversights that will require more of the funding than anticipated. In particular, the costs for lawn and irrigation.
Rather than allow money to be diverted from the actual skating area, committee members and concerned locals are seeking alternatives.
There was a suggestion of using a Neighborhood Matching Fund Grant to offset expenses. According to Lisa Sarno,"the Neighborhood Matching Grants period has passed."
Dr. Moore spoke of a Nick Pacheco Fund that might be used. There were suggestions of some community project involvement, even offers to acquire free trees and landscaping.
Whatever the case, The Ad-Hoc Council is adamant that they want the major funding to go to the actual skatepark area. If necessary, some would rather see the landscaping and surrounding area development be postponed.
Gutierrez mentioned that they would be finished by April 2005.
"Finished....?" a few eyes lit up.
"With the design..." he smiled sheepishly, as disapproving moans and groans permeated the room.
They've agreed to meet with the Ad Hoc Committee again, at least once more. Sarno claims she'll "have something in a month."
Locals say they've heard that before.

Yard Makeover Winner
Yes, we have a winner! Sixty entries were received for the free holiday yard makeover sponsored by PAL Landscape Services. The judges had the not so easy task of choosing not only the most deserving, but also the yard that would be most transformed and visible from the street.
Everyone was invited to write a letter or e-mail, submitting the name of a friend or neighbor, and telling why they thought this person was most deserving to be chosen for a new landscape makeover. All letters were carefully read and five finalists were selected. Then, a panel of judges inspected the sites. From there, the winning site was selected that would be vastly improved with the limited resources at hand, and be a showpiece that would be visible to passers-by.
Letters that touched the heart of the reader abounded. Particularly touching was a letter written by a young girl, asking for a yard makeover for her grandmother who raised her and her two brothers. She said, "I think she really deserves this as a reward for her hard work, love energy and strength," and, "she is one of the coolest people you will ever meet."
A letter asking on behalf of a mother who recently underwent open-heart surgery was also well received. Another letter for a hard working single mother who is a Highland Park Neighborhood Council member, was one of the finalists, too.
The winner of the free holiday yard makover is Jamie and Ursula Angell, on Vincent Avenue in Eagle Rock. According to the letter written by Paisley Schade, "Three weeks after they were married, Ursula's much beloved father passed away. Since then, each of their remaining parents has been hospitalized. Ursula and Jamie, themselves, have also been struck with debilitating injuries, and surgery in the case of Jamie. Yet they persevere in making their blended family comfortable and strong. This is for the sake of their young son/step-son, who has also had to make the transition to a new home and family circumstance, as well as deal with the stress of the year. He too would benefit from a healthy and beautiful outdoor space and its resulting feeling of permanence."
Phillip Latham, owner of PAL Landscape Service said, "It's about the Holiday season, it's about the giving... the people who took the time to write the letters were the real stars. The letters were so heart warming, it made me want to do this giveaway every year." Indeed, he plans to repeat the yard makeover next year, and is considering making it an annual event.
Phillip wants to again say thanks to his wife, Krista, John Stillion and Tom Topping for helping with the judging duties.

EDITORIAL
Christmas In Hell
by Paul Thomas
Some Hermon residents will be spending this Christmas in Hell. Construction Hell. For those of us near 6221 Monterey Road, there will be no Santa.
No Santa Fe Hill, that is. Thanks to Cedar Properties' furtive destruction and subsequent construction of a giant condominium complex on the site.
People told me all along that it woudn't do any good to fight it: friends, family, and those who knew better told me not to obsess. "You'll make yourself sick again."
They knew that I had pretty much snapped over the Oak Hill project (near Pinecrest Road) that continues its mayhem to this very day. Too late, because I just can't let my neighbors and myself get steamrolled. I can't take these things lying down.
There was talk of payoffs, backroom deals, and the smell of alcohol on peoples' breath. Most neighbors cited the futility of fighting these things.
I even knew that an upscale community like Playa Del Rey couldn't fight the land developers several months back. Even with legions of neighbors, network news cameras, and the like, ultimately they couldn't stop them from building on sacred Indian burial grounds.
So how could Hermon possibly do any good? Since March, Hermonites began efforts against a vague plan to build on our little corner of paradise. We're now at the end of 2004, and the project is plowing through, regardless of neighbors, regulations, or anything else.
Regardless of having to shut down lanes and narrow the streets on this already overused roadway. Regardless of the fact that it's on a blind curve that causes car accidents and spin-outs almost weekly.
Regardless of destroying 50 feet of my neighbor Lita's (who lives next to the site) landscaping. Regardless of a chain across her driveway and No Tresspassing signs she had posted, they would sneak on up through her property to access the site whenever she wasn't looking.
Regardless of their temporary electrical line falling bare-wired into the middle of the street (requiring the LAFD's assistance) at the end of October. Now I'm no electrical expert, but couldn't that have killed someone?
She requested for them not to block her driveway countless times. Countless times they did it anyway. Get Away With Whatever You Can is their creed.
On the other side of the mess, live Sybil and Roger. They've had their car window smashed from falling boulders caused by digging and drilling. They've had their gas lines cut into by blundering workers, causing them to have to evacuate their home.
They can't access the side of their property now, or even close their side gate, due to construction fencing. Instead of consideration and apologies, they've received threats and nasty phone messages from workers.
If the workers start up before 7 a.m., they know the police probably won't get there in time to do anything anyway. If they do, they were "just warming up the John Deere," or "just parking."
Complaints about grading procedures? They'll tell you it isn't grading, it's "cutting".....or "paring".....or "cleaving."
It became clear that the only regulations they would ever follow would have to be nailed down on paper, with witnesses present. Well guess what?
There were a few regulations agreed to by the owner Cedar Properties. They're the Santa Monica company that specializes in swallowing up open land spaces, and regurgitating condominiums and apartments.
At a Building & Safety Commision hearing held on March 31, a short list of rules were agreed to, as to how, when, and where dirt (i.e. the hill) could be hauled from the site. Realizing these were the only regulations that stood a chance of being followed, I watched for violations - and they came.
Ignoring the agreed time, spacing, and staging rules for trucks, they noisly hauled through their business. From my front yard through my sensitive ears, it seemed to register about 10,000 db, and it went on aaaaaaaaaaalllllllllll day - for weeks.
When I reported it to Building and Safety, I was refered to more than a dozen different inspectors, engineers, and spokesmen. Like a game of hot potato, each person would refer me to another one who was "definitely the right person to speak with."
One by one, they would deny having any involvement or jurisdiction. I even appreciated the department's twisted sense of humor in connecting me to clueless engineers who spoke broken English.
It saddened me to be refered to a new set of people, only after I identified myself as "from The Boulevard Sentinel." I marvelled at the strings of excuses: "These are civil matters"....."those weren't regulations, they were suggestions"..."it's too late now, whaddaya want me ta do about it?."
So I started documenting violations, taking photos, video, conferring with neighbors. Some of us contacted City Council and attended Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Council meetings.
We did finally find a Building & Safety inspector who was willing to come out to the site, as well as talk to neighbors. He confessed: "I wish this project had never been approved," but alas, it has.
Fiding someone who actually enforces Building & Safety hearing regulations was quite a task. Turns out it's not Building & Safety or their commision who oversees them (at least in this case).
It's actually another department which most of us aren't even aware exists. I got through to a responsible person after entering into this secret society of sorts.
"How did you know all this?" he asked me. "I mean...how did you find me?"
He listened, seemingly amazed, as I explained. He graciously listened to my complaints, and came out that very day.
In addition to belligerent workers denying any wrongdoing (of course), he discovered improper blockage of the sidewalk, and that street lines would have to be re-done. This information was relayed to me when I spoke with him later by phone.
All this did prompt owner Adam Pasori (AKA The Greek Tycoon) to actually leave his comfy Santa Monica penthouse and actually go to the property. Judging from his angry glaring, pacing, and shaking of fists, he was not happy.
Admittedly, it gives some satisfaction, but I'd like to see heads roll. I know it won't happen.
I was frustrated when more neighbors didn't stand and fight. My friend and neighbor Tomoko consoled me: "It's not that they don't care, they just think that there's nothing they can do to stop it."
I said, "No. We'll rent a catering truck and blare "La Cucaracha" out of the loudspeaker. They always stop for that. Then we'll lead them away from Hermon - Pied Piper style."
In all seriousness, the neighbors who followed this project and fought for their rights did make a difference. Maybe it was small, but it was something.
After witnessing shady behavior and hearing some horror stories, I have decided not to name most names in the above piece. To those of you who helped and listened, I respect your privacy as well, but you know who you are and - Thankyou!

Mt Washington Food Drive
To Benefit Northeast Mental Health Center, Nearby Needy Families
The annual Mount Washington Association Community Food Drive is underway and, once again, donations are being sought to assist clients of the Northeast Mental Health Center as well as other non-profit organizations providing for needy families from our community.
Canned goods, especially soups and proteins such as tuna, salmon, canned hams and all canned vegetables are being sought as well as such staples as packages of rice and beans. Donations will be collected from 9am to 11am on Saturday, December 4th at a collection station set up at the corner of San Rafael Avenue and Elyria Drive in Mount Washington.
The Northeast Mental Health Center, located at 5321 Via Marisol, provides outpatient treatment, crisis intervention, life support and care coordination to residents throughout the Northeast Los Angeles area. The Center has many elderly clients who often find difficulty in obtaining adequate supplies of basic nutrition.
Questions regarding donations to this program may be addressed to Rob Schraff (323-254-4207) or Maria Gray (323-225-4256).
The Mount Washington Association will celebrate its 50th anniversary in the coming year, having been formed in 1955 to protect, foster and develop the rights and interests of the community and to encourage a sense of community pride through better community relations and family participation in community issues.
Contact: Eliot Sekuler, 818/622-6896

Miss Mindy’s Music Reviews
Get Out (tm)
Hello and Happy Holidays! This month I have a very special gift for all of our readers out there.
Get Out (tm) is a punk band that was born in Eagle Rock and raised in the E.R.H.S. Jazz Band. Their sound is loud, fast and explosive (not to mention impossible to get out of your head).
Meet "I", Bonds, and Kevin! Ian Robbins a.k.a. Special "I" is the guitarist/lead vocalist and founding member of Get Out. "I" spent his high school years going through numerous band members whom he enlisted from jazz band or class. An early formation of the band actually performed a song in an E.R.H.S. talent show! Ian's put in a lot of hours and come a long way since '92 and it shows. This album is incredible! "Still Not Famous" is full of Ian's rapid guitar action, fun melodic changes and great vocal harmony. Oh yeah, and he writes it all himself!
John Bonds is the bassist/vocalist. He first began playing bass in '96 when "I" got tired of always looking for a bassist. In the hopes of finally having a solid member in the band, Ian taught John how to play. All the while, John practiced and "listened to lots of NOFX". Well, Bonds obviously did something right because the bass lines on this album kick! Be it punchy staccato, funky walk-ups or jumpy licks, he always seems to go beyond the expectation. Most definitely a solid and talented bass player.
Kevin Scott is the drummer of the band. His lightning fast drum rolls and crashes really pull the sound together. Kevin uses every chance he can to completely unleash on the drum kit. Hearing him is astounding, seeing him live must be an absolute experience. Kevin seems to be the mystery man of the group. He has been known to wear a ski mask to gigs. Interesting?
"Still Not Famous" is the third album from Get Out (tm). It starts off strong with a heavy hitter called "Everything Won't Be Okay". Kevin is simply a maniac on the drums and the lyrics are hilarious (and sung in perfect harmony).
"Kill The Radio" is an unrelenting song with serious momentum. Ian's guitar just rips right through you, backed by the frantic pulsing of John's bass. Then they throw in a swanky little reggae change, making this a major audio powerhouse!
First thing in the morning, start your day off right with "Heroic". An infectious song that features a nonstop hard driving beat. Peppy punk with a bubbling bass line, super clean pauses and a beautiful guitar break. "It's easy to defend yourself, harder to take the blame. Quick to fall back down from glory, hard to rise from shame".
The amazing gem on this album called "Weekend" might as well be called "The Bonds Show". You can really hear how talented these musicians are in this funky showcase. Very impressive.
Clean, clear drums with anthem quality is what you'll find on "Record Deal". Comple- mented by a small psychedelic breakdown that quickly snaps back to attention. A sharp sound with a smooth transition between tempo changes. The band's lyrics are absolutely comedic. "We'd like to thank you for not giving up and coming to our shows. We'd like to thank you for not leaving us and laughing at our jokes. Just to inform you we'd do anything to boost our sex appeal. Our message ain't subliminal give us a record deal".
I could go on all day telling you why Get Out (tm) rocks, but you'll have to check them out for yourself (believe me, you'll thank me later). "Still Not Famous" is available for sale on the band's web site. Also available are their previous albums ("Better Than The Last One",'02 and "Their Self-Titled Debut Album",'01), hilarious bios, a complete band history and lots of other fun stuff. Get Out (tm) will be playing at Weber's Brewery in Reseda on December 17th (address info is available on the web site, as well). This band is undoubtedly worth the trip! Support your local Eagle Rock bands, check out the site and make sure to BUY THE ALBUM!!!
Get Out (tm) is a self-promoted punk band that has no label backing. They do it all themselves.
A band that is untainted by commercialized pop or "industry standards". Hurry up and check this band out now, before they get signed! www.getouttm.com BUY THE ALBUM!!!
P.S. Calling all music lovers... come enjoy a free live performance by my band, Criminal Belly (you can't miss me, I'm the bassist and the only girl)! Sat., Dec. 11th at the Smellz- good Annual Winter Celebra- tion. Showtime is 9-10pm. Eagle Rock Blvd., between Yosemite and Addison. See you there!

Avenue 50 Studio
The Avenue 50 Studio is pleased to announce an exhibition featuring the works of two Latino painters from the Southwest: Cristina Cárdenas and Alfred J. Quiroz.
From her classically trained roots in renaissance art, Cristina Cárdenas developed her approach to art following the tradition of the Mexican muralists. Through her friendships with Arizona artists, Cárdenas began to tackle issues of a more political and personal nature using Amate paper as a link to her ancestors.
Alfred Quiroz examines the world in a satirical in-your-face manner. His commentary on U.S. culture uses a cartoonish approach with humor and wit as he lampoons corporations that we North Americans idolize.
The "2 de Sudoeste/Two from the Southwest" painters characterize the distinct and exemplary world of Southwestern art. (323) 258-1435.Avenue 50 Studio 131 North Avenue 50, Los Angeles, CA 90042

The following is a response sent by the L.A. Police Historical Society regarding last months article- be sure to read the responses sent by John Nese of Galcos and also the one from Councilman Antonio Villaraigosa. The fact is that York Boulevard Merchants were hurt unnecessarily and the Police Historical Society refuses to acknowledge what is so obvious to everyone else. 

Dear Mr. Topping:
This letter is a response to your article Police Party As Merchants Lose (November 2004), regarding the Los Angeles Police Historical Society (LAPHS) and the event "A Night With Joe Friday: Tribute To LAPD Detectives-Past and Present," which LAPHS co-hosted on October 2nd at "Behind The Badge: The LAPD Experience," Museum and Community Education Center in Highland Park.
The "facts" as you depicted them are inaccurate and misleading. LAPHS has worked extremely hard to engender and promote goodwill, community support and community involvement in the brief time that we have been at our facility. The biased nature of your article could reverse or corrupt the good that has been achieved, and the record needs to be set straight. Therefore, in the interest of fair and ethical reporting, I request that you print my article in its entirety.
This important event was planned and co-hosted in concert with the Detective Bureau, LAPD, to honor and recognize the incredible work that is performed every day, 24/7, by LAPD Detectives and support personnel on behalf of the residents, business/property owners, visitors and anyone else who works, lives or plays in Los Angeles. The essential work performed by these men and women, sworn and civilian, active duty or retired, is too often taken for granted, and appropriate recognition of their achievements has been virtually non-existent. After a 50-year absence, the Detective Bureau was re-instituted two years ago under Chief William Bratton's leadership. The first annual "Night With Joe Friday" was held in November 2003 and drew a crowd of nearly 1,500. This event was created to specifically fill the void that existed for so many years in recognizing LAPD Detectives, and secondarily, to be a fundraising vehicle to support the vital efforts ofLAPHS within the community.
This is an important point, because it framed the planning efforts for this year's event. Last year, a greatly reduced street closure area was approved to accommodate parking with an anticipated attendance of 800. When the event in 2003 swelled to 1,500 attendees within the last week, a much larger parking area (approximately eight blocks) was actually needed and used to facilitate parking. Recognizing the need to plan effectively, LAPHS requested an eight-block closure area for this year's event as well, with the caveat that areas farthest away would be vacated/re-opened if the actual need for this much space did not materialize. As this year's event progressed and it became apparent that our attendance would not exceed 700, the streets farthest away (starting at Avenue 54 and moving east) were quickly re-opened. All but three blocks were re-opened by 7:30pm.
Another point you alleged was that streets above York Boulevard were also blocked; that was simply not the case. Only one point just south of York Boulevard on Aldama Avenue was barricaded because of an inherent safety issue. No other streets were blocked above or below York. This was a very important planning issue for us. Our intent was to minimize in every way possible the impact on anyone who needed access into or out. of the affected closure area. We made sure that businesses such as Carrows, McDonalds, Highland Park Automotive and Galco's, to name a few, had an open, alternate access. Additionally, however, we also ensured that anyone who approached a traffic control point and requested access to any place within the closure area was granted unquestioned entry; the only caution was to not park on the street. We had numerous such requests, and none was denied. No one was cited, and no one was towed. We value and cherish our neighbors, and we also frequent these businesses ourselves.
Another clarification is essential. The manner in which you portrayed the gathering of petition signatures is misrepresented and factually inaccurate. First of all, the City of Los Angeles requires that rigid guidelines be followed before a street closure permit will be issued. Councilmember Villaraigosa's Office endorsed these requirements, and LAPHS willingly complied with every expectation. LAPHS Volunteers, NOT police officers, gathered the required signatures. Volunteers were carefully briefed as to how to gather signatures. No one was coerced, forced or manipulated in any manner to give approval. In fact, every address within the proposed closure area was identified, and repeated attempts were made over a period of several days to try and make personal contact with someone representing each address. Here are the actual numbers: 129 addresses; 75 YES; 8 NO; 13 VACANT; 33 NO CONTACT. Again, repeated attempts were made at different times of the day to locate someone at the addresses where "no contact" was made. In every case, a flyer printed in both English and Spanish, was either presented to someone or left at the location. Only 51 % approval is required by City guidelines; the number of approvals obtained exceeded this requirement.
And then there's the matter of John Nese, owner of Galco's (Soda Pop Stop). I have tremendous respect for John and the positive contributions he has made to the community over many years. And I love his store! There is no way that we would want to impede or hinder his marvelous business. I personally conveyed this to John when he appeared at the Museum to voice concerns about the event. I also gave him my personal assurance, as did other LAPHS staff members, that anyone who needed access to his store during the closure period would be granted immediate accommodation. No one to my knowledge made such a request. I personally briefed the security detail and the Traffic Control Officers about this matter on the day of the event. It is regretful that Mr. Nese or any other business owner felt inconvenienced by this event. However, LAPHS and the Detective Bureau followed every compliance requirement to the letter to obtain the necessary approvals and permits. We followed a democratic process wherein the majority vote determined the final outcome; none of us always agrees with every decision that affects our lives. However, once that decision has been rendered, it's up to each of us to comply. Nothing requires that we LIKE it.
One important additional point. Using your power as a newspaper editor/publisher to incite people to file complaints and/or engage in civil insurrection "just because you can," is irresponsible and defies ethical standards. It is even more heinous when you present erroneous, misleading information. All the information regarding the event was available to you if you had given us more than five minutes on the telephone before your press deadline; you also called just as we were about to start a Board meeting, which was unfair if you truly wanted to present a balanced article.
Finally, I will stress that LAPHS has strived and will continue to promote and enhance relations with individuals and groups within the community. We are presently engaged in a joint effort to bring a new business into Highland Park. We host, co-host and sponsor numerous community events, including the forthcoming toy give-away for 800 children on December 20th, etc. We allow numerous community organizations to hold meetings and events at our facility at no cost. We try hard to be a good neighbor in every respect and to help this community grow and flourish. It would be helpful for you to be accurate in your portrayals of events as they unfold. As 'Joe Friday' of Dragnet fame frequently mused, "Just the facts!"
C. David Dalton , Executive Director
Los Angeles Police Historical Society, Inc.

Dear Mr. Dalton:
A copy of the letter you sent to Mr.
Topping was forwarded to me. I feel confident in saying that there is not one merchant who will contest the good work of the police museum and the positive contributions made by the Los Angeles Police Department. I will also agree with you in saying that you did indeed make every attempt to notify and inform merchants of the upcoming event. No one disputes that you did indeed gather the required signatures as mandated. However, I would like to clarify a few points.
I think you missed the point of the article. Businesses on York Boulevard were more than inconvenienced by the fund raiser. With York Boulevard closed to traffic (as well as all adjacent streets) and business driveways taped off, business were "forced" to close. In other words, the Police Museum fund raiser effectively put businesses on York Boulevard "out-of-business". As I am certain you are well aware, small businesses are very sensitive to even the smallest fluctuations in business.
I am a believer in offering solutions to problems. I am requesting that York Boulevard remain open next year during all Police Museum events. Perhaps you could ask some of the local businesses (i.e., Big Lots!, Carrows and Galco's to name but three) to donate some of their parking spaces and run shuttles to the police station. Since the Rose Bowl is able to keep their surrounding neighborhood streets open during events, with crowds of 60,000-100,000 people, I feel confident that an event with 700-1500 people can be managed by the L.A.P.D.
Sincerely,
John F. Nese

Dear Mr. Nese:
I am writing in response to a letter that you sent to the Los Angeles Police Historical Society regarding their recent "A Night with Joe Friday" event.
I was sorry to hear that Galco's and other local businesses were negatively affected by the street closure on that day. The City departments involved with special event street closures do their best to coordinate with local residents and businesses that may be adversely affected. However, the points that you raised in your letter as well as those raised by other business owners in the article in the Boulevard Sentinel lead me to believe that more coordination needs to be done.
My staff will work with the Los Angeles Police Historical Society next year to convene a planning meeting with local merchants and residents to better plan the street closures for the "Joe Friday" event. Thank you for suggesting that some of the larger businesses on York provide parking spaces for this event. I trust that next year we will be able to implement this and other suggestions to ensure businesses are not forced to close down due to the street closure.
Very Truly Yours,
ANTONIO R. VILLARAIGOSA Councilmember, 14th District

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Highland Park Happenings
by Paul Thomas
The first weekend of November, the carnival came to town. The Garvanza District Rite-Aid in Highland Park, sponsored a Fall carnival which consisted of several rides that were hauled in on trucks.
Despite all the bells and whistles, the event didn't attract a whole lot of people. Generally, there seemed to be some setbacks as far as getting the whole thing rolling at night.
Meetings abounded in Highland Park this month. There were council meetings, committee meetings, coalition meetings, and candidate forums.
The Historic Highland Park Neighborhood Council (HHPNC) held a Thanksgiving Potluck at their General Meeting, Thursday Nov. 18, giving the public a chance to meet their neighbors and elected Neighborhood Council Representatives!
speaking of the HHPNC, Secretary Robert Mendel has done a fantastic job of updating their website. There is now a photo gallery that has pics of old historic Highland Park periodicals, real estate advertisements from the olde days ("Highland Park - where the sea meets the mountains for health & happiness"), and even Arroyo Seco poetry!
I really recommend that all Arroyo seco residents check it out at http://www.historichighlandpark.org
It is informative and a lot of fun.
On Saturday, November 20, The Builders Club Kids held their car wash across from the Home Depot on Fig. Part of Luther Burbank Middle School, Builders Club brings new skills and opportunity to our area youth.
They hold meetings every Wednesday at 12:35PM in the Dean's Office at the school. There the kids learn leadership skills, how to work as a team and most importantly how to provide community service to improve Highland park.
Then, on Sunday the 21st, The Arroyo Arts Collective held its 12th Annual Discovery Tour. Starting at the Lummis Home, and taking the artistic road through the Arroyo Seco, the tour featured 86 different artists.
20 of the artists this year were new to the event. Perrenial favorites such as Rick Monzon, Linda Lyke, and Raoul de la Sota returned with new ideas.
The Arroyo Seco Neighborhood Council(ASNC), as one of the only coalition councils in the City of Los Angeles, represents the communities of Hermon, Montecito Heights, Monterey Hills, Mt. Washington and Sycamore Grove. It was formed two years ago as part of the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment (DONE).
The ASNC held its second annual elections on Monday, November 22. from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. People trickled into Ramona Hall sporadically to vote for their favorite candidates.
There were 234 people who voted this year. It turns out that about 2/3 of them did so by good old-fashioned snail mail.
The winners are Margaret Barto (Geographic Representative - Hermon), Donnette Thayer (Geographic Representative - Montecito Heights), Patrick Botz-Forbes (Geographic Representative - Monterey Hills). Both William Rumble and Jesse Simon tied for Mount Washington, and Constance Saxe won Geographic Representative for Sycamore Grove.
The At-Large Representatives are Julie Nagesh (Retail, Wholesale, Service), David Brunk (Faith-Based), and Scott Folsom (Education/Youth). Also, Sherri Nourse (Recreation, Culture, Art), Jerry Schneider (Environment) Jeff Chapman (Community Non-Profits), and Carol Jacques (Health Care/Seniors).
Thursday November 25th brought a tranquil and picture-perfect Thanksgiving to Highland Park. Locals got to enjoy the holiday with a welcome break from all the daily hubbub in the streets.
Remember the October Surprise that brought a fun flavor to the month of October? Of course you do, don't you?
Well, just in case you forgot, on November 28, the public was invited to join artists and participants in that event at Flor Y Canto. Dubbed the October Surprise Review, it was a time to share memories, photos, and reminisces about the month.
Lastly, it's down to the wire with the preparations for the Northeast Los Angeles Holiday Parade. Coming up December 5th. Happy Holidays!

U.S Office Giveaway
Starting December 8 until December 24th, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm U.S. Office Machine in Highland Park be having a holiday giveaway. Items for men, women and children will be given away. Typewriter ribbons for old style typewriters will be given away, too! Bring in your old ribbon spools and they will match 'em up! They have been doing holiday giveaways since 1975. They are located at 5722 North Figueroa Street and have been in business for 43 years. Their number is 323 256 2111.

Eagle Vista Seniors
On Dec.3 ( Fri.) The Eagle Vista Seniors offer thanks to those people who have been of special help to the club with an invitation-only luncheon at Camilo's restaurant.
Dec.7 (Tues.) No meeting due to the Dec 7-9 trip to Laughlin. The members will board the bus at 8:00 a.m. at Glassell Park or at 8:15 a.m. Eagle Rock Park. They will return at approx. 6:30 p.m. (Thur.)
Dec.14 (Tues.) No meeting as most will be attending the Lawrence Welk Theatre to enjoy a Musical Christmas Show as well as a delicious buffet luncheon. (Cost:$60.00) The bus departs from Eagle Rock Park at 9:00 a,m. and returns at 6:30 p.m.
Dec.21 (Tues,) Another festive occasion will be the seniors' Christmas luncheon at the Elks Club, 120 E. Colorado Blvd. in Glendale at 10:00 a.m. (cost $11.00) Newly elected officers for the year 2005 will be installed at this gathering. Pianist Al Broers will entertain guests with music of the 40's and 50's. Please bring a $5.00 gift (wrapped) for exchange.
Dec.28 (Tues.) BINGO!

TROMPERLAND
by Richard Miazga
and Max Norris

Ron Carr 1929 Runabout

Hello again everyone! We have a real treat for you. We have Max Norris, a long time resident of Eagle Rock (since 1942) writing our Tromperland column this month. Max is a proud member of the Trompers, and got the hot rod bug when he was 11 years old. He has seen, heard of, and got involved with a lot of the early hotrodders from this area, and comes with great credentials himself, getting heavily into sports car racing, which included competing at Sebring in Florida, and LeMans in France.
Since the Trompers of Eagle Rock Hot Rod Club was revived in January 2003, one of the really amazing things we've encountered is just how much Eagle Rock, and the surrounding cities had to do with the development of the sport. It's safe to say that Eagle Rock, Pasadena, Glendale, and Burbank can take claim as the actual "cradle" of the sport of hotrodding. Many of the earliest known hot rod clubs in the entire United States were established right in this area.
Here in Eagle Rock, a club called the "Motators' started in 1939. In Glendale, there still is a club called the "Sidewinders" that was founded in 1938. Tons of hot rod clubs began immediately after World War II, (the Trompers for one), and it's widely believed that the sport began in 1945. But, we have evidence that shows the boys were "going at it" long before that, at least here in Eagle Rock.
Here's what Max has to say. "In 1948 /49 I was in school here in Eagle Rock, and had several jobs after school. One was cleaning up mechanic stalls at Klem Ford, located across the street from the current Columbo's restaurant on the corner of Hermosa. One of the stalls was Don Zabel's, a founding member of the Trompers. At that time, Don and his partner Bruce Robinson had a sprint car they were racing at Gilmore Stadium, a local racetrack. For me, a future car nut, working alongside these guys was a dream come true.
"You know, you could build a complete Indy car within the city limits of Glendale. Hot rods were all over the place. Barney Navarro (equipment manufacturer) was on San Fernando road. Ed Winfield, another equipment pioneer was right across the tracks. Curtis Kraft (one of the biggest Indy car builders) was located on Colorado Blvd. Paxton one of the early blower manufacturers, was near the old Bob's twin drive in on Colorado. Kong ignitions and Weiand (why-and) were on San Fernando road, they made intake manifolds, blowers, and cylinder heads, and were one of the earliest to offer their products nationwide. Offenhauser, a real pioneer in intake manifold and cylinder head development was located in Alhambra.
"SoCal, the very first "speed shop" where you could purchase all the things it took to make your hot rod go fast was based in Burbank. Soon after in Pasadena, Blair’s Speed shop began. These two were the very first "shops" in the entire United States. No matter what part of the United States you lived in, you bought your "hot rod parts' from SoCal or Blairs out in sunny California. To test all this equipment our local hero's raced on the dry lakes. Muroc (which is Edwards Air Force base) was the scene of high speed land racing until 1941. Then the boys moved to a dry lake (still in use today) called El Mirage near Lancaster.
"When dragracing began, (1949), San Gabriel had a small airport the boys could wind them up at, legally!
"Or, illegally there was the Rose Bowl, Santa Anita's parking lot, Huntington Drive, and Riverside Drive near Griffith park. As time went on, and hotrodding became more popular other manufacturers made the local area their "base' of operations. Schiefer Clutches, J& E pistons, Deist Safety chutes, Jahns Pistons, Cyclone headers, C&T cranks, to name just a few, were all located within 10 miles of Eagle Rock."
Eagle Rock and it's hotrodders were right in the thick of things doing their part to make the sport of hotrodding as great as it was then, and continues to be today.
We can't close this month without wishing all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. We hope you have enjoyed our monthly get-together, and we'll make a early New Years resolution by saying we'll make our Tromperland column even better next year, so stay tuned. Next month, we'll tell you about all the hotrod and car clubs that existed right here in Eagle Rock. You'll be surprised at the variety Eagle Rock had... Till then everyone, from the Trompers of Eagle Rock, "Let The Fun Begin" and we'll see you in 2005!

Curves Mural
Curves announces the installation of a small industrial mural executed by local Eagle Rock artist, Debra Boudreau. Included elements are various quirky quotations chosen to inspire clients to achieve fitness and weight management goals through the Curves program
The existing interior includes a contemporary neutral color scheme accented with custom high-tech steel cutout signage. The nature of the weight loss course made it necessary for the mural to be pleasing to the eye day after day…as the Curves program is a three-day a week exercise program.
The artist, Debra Boudreau, has been directing museums in the LA/ Orange County areas and is well known in the western region museum community, and has been an art professional and retailer for over the past twenty-five years.
Ms. Boudreau came to the Eagle Rock neighborhood to open an art gallery known as Townsend Gallery on the corner of Colorado and Townsend Street in Eagle Rock. The Gallery brought Latin American Art to the community as well as a colorful array of ethnographic antiques. The art gallery store has since closed but the artist has continued to live in Eagle Rock.
Curves hours are Monday through Friday 6:30am – 12-30pm & 3:30pm – 8:00pm and Saturday, 8am –12pm. For further information please call 323-259-5800.

Criminal Belly
by P. Zazz
Out of the dark criminal underbelly of Eagle Rock, California comes a dangerous new musical trio called Criminal Belly. Well....not exactly. They are based in Eagle Rock, but not the dark underbelly. More of the hipster area...near, oh, say..The Oxy Cafe, maybe.
Criminal Belly is made up of Dan Hankin on guitar and lead Vocals. He is the criminal mastermind behind the songs of this band.
On bass and counter/background Vocals be on the lookout for Mindy Jones. Jones is dangerously tasteful with her bass technique. She may be armed with cigarettes and can be identified by a Head-Of-Medusa tattoo on her left arm.
Providing the backbone (& background vocals) of the trio is Landen Garcia with his ammunition of drums. Do not approach. He may be wielding sticks.
They have a four-song demo CD available that is known to be addictive. Their bright electric sound may hook the unsuspecting listener.
Those with a nostalgia for '80s bands such as The B-52s or even '60s groups like Jefferson Airplane are highly susceptible. If you have been known to be affected by Collegiate/Alternative/Power Pop Syndrome or goofy humor, then Criminal Belly's CD will be contagious to you.
It kicks off with "Vanessa," a bouncy tune that has Hankin singing about a girl who works at "Curves." The band's rhythmic guitar riff/call-and-response vocals mixed with crisp bass and drum syncopation is their trademark.
Without losing a beat, in comes "Oxy Girls," a subject of obsession and frustration for the singer. The song warns against "relationships based on paper."
Next is "Danzilla" which features a sludgy groove and a cool guitar solo. The lyrics about a "walking through Japan, a big fat American man" may seem autobiographical, but I don't believe so.
Last is my favorite tune, "Flower People," with a churning groove and layered vocals by Hankin and Jones. Warning: listening to this CD more than once will lead to songs being stuck in your head all day.
If you do pass through the Eagle Rock area be on the lookout for Criminal Belly. They may soon be invading other neighborhoods.

Elvira’s Homemade Mexican Food

by Fletcher Figueroa
I am often surprised how many people have never been to Elvira's Deli for her homemade Mexican food. It's alway good, and it's always fresh. Although situated in a small minimall storefront, she has been serving up her specialties since 1995. Not many people know she used to work at Casa Escobar, a popular Mexican restaurant in the Eagle Rock Mall (now Westfield Shoppingtown).
Elvira Fierro was walking throught the Eagle Rock Plaza in 1974 when she noticed the help wanted sign. She had some experience and was hired. She worked there as a cashier, hostess and waitress and filled in with cooking duties when the chef didn't show up.
Unfortunately, the owner of Casa Escobar got a little behind and had to close down. That's when Mrs. Fierro decided to put her homemade Mexican cooking education to good use.
Since then, her little store front has been a casual place of immense enjoyment. I think she serves the best Huevos Ranchero plate in town, and her Chile Relleno is my second favorite. If I'm really hungry, I like to get the side garden salad, with fresh ingredients every day.
Every winter, I always manage to catch some kind of a cold, and when I do, it's off to the 808 video store first, then down to Elvira's for a large container of her hearty homemade Chicken soup. It doesn't always cure me, but I sure do feel a lot better. Elvira has her homemade chicken soup available every day, as well as menudo and posole.
Some of her specialities include pollo durango, a spicy chicken dish, chile verde plates and burritos, and taquitos and flautas for here and to go.
She can cater events for groups up to 500.
Why not start a new family holiday tradition this year? Order your Christmas tamales early at Elvira's. She will prepare them special for you out of pork, beef or chicken. My favorite is the chile and cheese and she offers sweet tamales as well.
Elviras Homemade Mexican Food, 1757 Colorado Blvd, Eagle Rock, CA 90041, open 9am to 8pm, 6 pm on Sunday, closed Wednesdays. (323) 257-3216

Talent at Yosemite Rec
Yosemite Recreation Center in Eagle Rock, will host a concert featuring local talent on Saturday, December 11, to benefit the facility's music program.
Participants in the Yosemite Music Program, which began earlier this year, and other young musicians from the area will perform at the 8:00 PM show, with selections to include piano and drum recitals, and bands. Among the acts scheduled to appear are: Old Souls - A pre-teen rock group that played at the Eagle Rock Music Festival and the Lotus Festival, which is a Department-sponsored event. Opaque - An all-female ska/punk ensemble from Franklin high School Shock Hazard - Eagle Rock High School marching band students by day, heavy metal performers by night.
Tickets may be purchased at Yosemite Recreation center beginning Monday, November 29 through Friday, December 10.
Yosemite Recreation Center is located at 1840 Yosemite Drive. For more info, contact Cassandra Bruno: (323) 257-1644.

Question: What's blue and yellow, does good deeds, and has twelve heads?
Answer: Cub Scout Den 2 of Eagle Rock.
We are the Webelo Cub Scouts of Den 2, Pack 188, and we meet in the Yosemite Recration Center hall almost every Wednesday night. This year and last year we have been working on their advancements to get the Arrow of Light badge, the highest ranking badge in Cub Scouts. The advancements are badges that all involve learning activities on different themes. One badge is called the Communicator. To earn this one, we had to study and practice Morse code, make a speech to our den, visit a library, and WRITE A NEWSPAPER ARTICLE. We wrote this all together to tell everyone in our community about who we are and what we do. So here it is!
When we earned the Craftsman badge, we made airplane models out of wood and learned tool safety.
We trained for Camporee and worked on our Readyman and Athlete advancements by doing obstacle courses, learning to use a compass, practicing the balance beam, and tying knots, including the bowline, the clove hitch, and the square knot. We learned how to start fires and put them out. We did a good deed by helping to stack wood in a shed.
To get the Readyman badge we had to learn first aid, such as stopping bleeding with a tourniquet and performing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. We learned how to check a person's pulse on their throat or wrist. And we had to remember three important phone numbers for emergencies: fire department, police department, and poison control center. We learned how to call 911, check the scene of an accident, and check the victim. And we learned about performing CPR (cardio-pulmonary resuscitation).
For the Fitness advancement badge, we learned about nutrition, by studying the food pyramid and keeping track of meals for a week. And we planned healthy meals with our families.
For the Showman badge, we memorized and recited poems, fables, and stories. We did a skit at the Blue and Gold dinner and learned how not to be nervous on stage.
We earned our Aquanet badge by passing swim tests, learning water safety, and how to throw a life preserver.
Last year on Memorial Day, we went to the National Cemetery in Westwood and showed respect for our veterans by placing flags in the ground by their graves. The cemetery has 85,000 graves and each one had a flag. Our pack placed about five hundred to a thousand of these flags. All the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts in Los Angeles came to remember those who died in wars for our country. This Memorial Day we're going to place flags in the cemetery again.
Every year we hold a pancake breakfast at the old Eagle Rock City Hall. We also help homeless people with a food drive (remember those yellow plastic bags on your doorknobs?). And every year we sing Christmas carols for the folks at the Amberwood and Solheim nursing homes.
Den 2 raises money for our Scouting activities by selling mistletoe at Trader Joe's. This year we will be selling our mistletoe on the 11th and 12th of December.
We think it's cool to be in Cub Scouts because we get to learn a lot of cool stuff on go on cool Scouting trips. And we try to help our environment. We all dearly hope that you support Den 2 and Pack 188 by buying mistletoe from us this December and coming to our pancake breakfast this spring.
2nd Year Webelos: Matthew Cecconi, Nicky and Tommy Dechant, Jacob Gardea, Jordan Hayes, Christopher Hogue, Alec Hutkoff, Owen Miller, Isaac O'Leary, Daniel Perez, Wess Romero, Joseph Sweazey

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