North East Christmas Parade - December 4, 2005
The weather turned out perfect for the 61st Annual Parade. Above, the St. Dominics Girl Scout Troop.

Huizar Wins

Pacheco Supporters Stunned

Election Fraud Rumored

DeVera Fired

by Tom Topping
CD14. The election results were so lopsided, even Huizar supporters were caught off guard by their outright victory on election night. Everybody expected there would be a runoff between Huizar and former Councilman Pacheco, but the heavily endorsed Huizar
received almost 20,000 votes, over twice as many as second place Pacheco.
Pacheco and his supporters have been subdued ever since. Mr. Pacheco plans to go back to private law practice. His Eagle Rock supporters are looking hopefully to the new administration, because so many community activities hinge on the support of the local City Council office. They want Huizar's support to continue the good work they have done in the community for years.
The were complaints and rumors that a recent legal decision involving the ACLU prohibited poll workers from checking voter's identification before giving them ballots. Anecdotal reports claimed that possibly fraudulent voters were traveling from one polling place to another, voting at each. They claimed poll workers were involved, helping these traveling voters sign in and vote for registered voters at each precinct they visited. An incredibly high turnout gave some credibility to these rumors as an almost unheard of 48% of registered voters in CD14 went to the polls. Although the election was challenged, nothing turned up to bring a change in the results.
For comparison, in 1999, Pacheco won with only about 9960 votes and less than 20,000 votes were cast. In 2003, Villaraigosa won with about 13,600, and about 25,000 voters went to the polls that year. This year Huizar got 19,901 out of about 36,000 voters turning out. It's hard to imagine that this election would bring out so many when city and statewide turnout was characteristically low.
After running a clean campaign designed mainly to activate and give Filipino voters a voice in city politics, Ruby deVera returned to work on November 9 after a two month unpaid leave of absence. She was the office manager for 1st District Councilman Ed Reyes. He called her into his office and fired her. He was quoted as saying his reasons were personal, and that he wouldn't discuss personnel decisions. When she first talked to him about running, he scoffed at the suggestion that Ms. deVera could activate and give voice to the Filipino community. Speculation is that he was embarrassed to have one of his staff going against the hand picked candidate of the Mayor, Villaraigosa.
How much does one have to spend these days to get elected City Councilman? In this case, $565,697
 

Con Artist Fleeces Local Businesses
by Tom Topping

An Asian con-man in his mid thirties extracted $300 from two local businesses last month at the intersection of Eagle Rock and Colorado Blvd. Swork Coffee and the Coldstone ice cream store both fell victim to the man with a friendly face and a good story. The man calling himself "Thomas" was slim build, about 6 feet tall, wore a black baseball cap, blue jeans and a black T-shirt. Claiming to be the owner of Ruby Bakery, he approached employees at the two nearby establishments saying he needed $150 cash for an urgent COD delivery, which he would pay back in a few hours. His story was good and he seemed to have all the right answers, as well as showing business cards and flyers from the bakery, to help back up his fraudulent story.
When the time came that he was supposed to return with the money, workers at the two establishments started calling and then came to visit the Ruby Bakery looking for their money. When they found that the owner of Ruby Bakery was not the person they loaned money to, they realized they'd been had.
Cindy, manager of Swork sent a letter out to other neighbors on her block saying, "It was a total scam. I have claimed a police report. The officer says a theft by trickery was committed."
Bakery owner Brian Lum said the same person had done this back in July to Starbucks and Jamba Juice. He was caught on video, but because he did not threaten or use force, it is low on the list of Police priority. Police refused to take a report from Coldstone saying that because they gave the money willingly, it was a civil matter.

Loleta Ave Homicide-
Threats Remain
by Tom Topping
On October 29, a Halloween party was held at a home on Loleta Ave. As the party wore on, what happened was that one young man did not like the way another was looking at him, or something to that effect. It ended up turning into a brawl, with a group of young men beating one person badly. He was also stabbed. Friends of the person who was beaten then shot one of the persons who was doing the beating. At approximately 2:11 a.m., Sunday morning, Northeast Area uniformed police and Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics were dispatched to the 5200 block of Loleta Avenue, North of Colorado Blvd. in Eagle Rock.
The person shot was transferred to the hospital, received care and is expected to recover fully.
After being disturbed by hours of police activity that Saturday night, neighbors were again awakened the next morning with police going door to door asking questions. They were called in by a neighbor from a home across the street from the party's location.
He had awoke that morning to see what looked like someone sleeping in the bushes around his house. He then went out to wake him, and ask him to leave. When he could not wake him, police were called. The person found dead at the scene was the victim of the beating, and the stabbing. He had left the party to get away from his attackers, hiding in the bushes across the street from the party's location. LAPD Northeast Commander Russell indicates police believe this victim to have fled the party after being stabbed then either hiding himself or collapsing in the bushes where he was found deceased.
The owner of the house where the party was held has been threatened by associates of either the injured or deceased. In fear for the safety of his family, he has sent them out of the country, and is putting his house up for sale, after which time he plans to join them.

Eagle Rock in Playoffs
@Coliseum
by Tom Topping
For the first time in many years, Eagle Rock High's football team has made the final in the playoffs. Their win last Friday against El Camino moved into the final round. They will be playing Marshall High. All the Eagle Rock Alumni and fans will want to come out and support ERHS next Friday 12/9/05 at the Colesium!! The start time for the game is at 5:00 pm. The Eagles play an exciting wide open offense so get on your green and come out and support the team!!

Dear Editor:
There was an article last week about credentialed teachers having trouble finding local jobs. My wife with 9, education credentials, including the K- 12, credential could not get hired by LAUSD or the LA County School District after she graduated from Cal State LA. The apparent reason was trained teachers have to be paid more. She got plenty of work when she had an Emergency Teaching Credential. One South LA High School Principa1 told her, "most teachers" have had their cars stolen, during the first year at his High School. But he still did not hire her. Five years ago she went to the LAUSD local school to enroll our son in Kindergarten. She asked if the Kindergarten teachers had teaching credentials. My wife was told the Kindergarten teachers were dedicated. She was never told if any of the teachers actually had a Teaching Credential. No one would hire a plumber to remove a bowel obstruction, even if he or she had an emergency doctor's license. We are allowing LAUSD to hire emergency credentialed teachers who do not have the proper training to properly educate our children, to save money for the LAUSD. Cheap is not the best. No wonder LAUSD students score low on the state tests and more parents are home schooling their children.
Arthur Hanson in Eagle Rock

Dear Editor:
I noticed that a contractor was installing a 5 foot high fence in front of a Eagle Rock house. I called the contractors office and was told that a 5 foot fence was legal in the front of a LA house. I called 311, who gave me the Building and Safety information desk. Building and Safety told me that 40 inches was the maximum height that I could have the front of my house fence. Building and Safety told me that any homeowner who built an illegal fence would have to lower the fence to 40 inches or face criminal prosecution. I remember around 29 years ago talkmg to a fireman who told me that a 40 inch tall with a smooth top fence was the LAFD approved fence. He also told me that the LAFD was consulted before the ordinance was passed. LAFD conducted tests and found that a 40, inch high fence with a smooth top did not interfere with fire hoses. The Fireman told me that a lot of illegal fences were going to void the home owners Fire Insurance. He also stated that the Ordinance was being ignored. I know of two women who lost one of their eyes to fences with pointed tops.
Arthur Hanson in Eagle Rock.

Truly Amazing Shame?
It's truly a shame that another Eagle Rock landmark, Jim's Burgers, has closed. And for what? Yet another overpriced sandwich shop (scheduled to open in Feb. '06).
I grew up here, and still love it, but sadly, over the past few years, we've sold out our small town charm to 'entrepreneurs' who think they're doing us all a favor by putting in overpriced 'upscale' eateries. I'll admit that some of the food is good, even great, but common sense suggests that most of the 'new' places are overcharging by 30-50%. Take Dante's, for instance. Excellent ribs - truly amazing. But again, overpriced by 30-50%.

NELAart
is an association of galleries, artists and arts related organizations located in Northeast Los Angeles. The goal of NELAart is to increase the visibility of the thriving arts community in Northeast Los Angeles.
Second Saturdays
Beginning December 10, 2005 from 5pm-10pm, several galleries and arts organizations located in Northeast Los Angeles will hold extended hours on the Second Saturday of each month.
art studio c - 359 days out of the year asc is a community workspace for painters. Twice a year, in May and November, we open to present the work of asc members to the public. Easels are put away and paint is scrapped off the floor in order to turn the studio into a temporary gallery space.
During Second Saturdays, easels will not be put away and artists will be painting and displaying art in their work areas. The studio will be open from 2pm -10pm.

Glassell High

At the Glassell Park Neighborhood Council Land Use Committee meeting, Gary Gidcumb of architectural firm HMC, shows the site plan for the new High School, planned to be built near the intersection of San Fernando, Eagle Rock / Cypress and Verdugo. Although many hurdles remain, officials hope to open it by 2010.

by Tom Topping
On two occasions last month, representatives of the Los Angeles School District came into the community to show, and collect comment on, design plans for the proposed Glassell Park High School, officially referred to as Central Region High School #13 (aka Taylor Yard).
The proposed school is needed to reduce overcrowding, busing and year round schedules, necessary now. When completed it will serve students currently going to Eagle Rock, Franklin and Marshall High Schools, which are all planning to return to "traditional" school schedules after the new school is built.
The site itself is a rather contentious one as it still needs to be wrestled from the hands of developer and property speculator Richard Murello. The story about that, you may remember, is either that Murello is a sharpster and an opportunistic business man, or that the LAUSD is excessively slow, lame and stupid when it comes to their property acquisitions. The truth is a combination of both, but either way, the LAUSD will get the property by buying it or using eminent domain.
The site is part of the various properties that used to make up the Taylor Railroad Yard, built in the hey day of the Southern Pacific Railroad's empire. Under construction now right down the block, is the Taylor Yard State Park, along with roadway widening along San Fernando Road to handle the new traffic pattern to go along with it.
The school's design is made to handle 2295 students with 85 classrooms. It will include sports and performing arts facilities, as well as computer related labs. The buildings will be further divided to facilitate the breakdown of student populations and administration into the new LAUSD "learning communities" program where 5 groups of approximately 450 students will attend.
The entryway will be across from where Division Street intersects with San Fernando Road, which will receive a new traffic signal (already under construction). The actual frontage of the School will be separated from San Fernando Road by the Kia Car Dealer and a small triangle of city owned property. Abutting these areas will be the baseball and football fields, then the actual classroom buildings.
On the southeast border of the site will be the access road, where all pedestrian and vehicular traffic will come and go, with parking going in the area behind the buildings, nearest to the Union Pacific and Metrolink tracks. Between the parking area and the classrooms will be the performing arts center, the library, a multipurpose building and the maintenance and operations building. On the opposite side from the access road will be the gymnasium and the basketball courts.
At the Glassell Park Neighborhood Council Land Use and Planning Committee, and at the design workshop held on Wednesday, November 30th, concerns were voiced over parking, traffic, and the lack of grandstands for the athletic fields. Community members opined that parking looked insufficient for a school of that size. Some questioned why not extend the parking closer to the railroad tracks? Others were concerned about the architecture, not wanting the building to look like something from the "OC" (a TV show about Orange County).
One issue was the proximity of the Federal Express facility located right next door, and the impact the truck traffic would have on the school's entryway. The driveways will be adjacent as they connect to San Fernando Road and while the school road will have a signal, the shipping trucks will not. LAUSD New Facilities team member Susan Kline responded that the traffic from Fed Ex was considered in the traffic study, and Fernando Chavarria wanted to know if there were any better suggestions of how to manage the traffic situation there. Another team member said that no one in the room knew of a better solution.
Another concern was the landscaping. One person mentioned returning it to it's natural state as much as possible, which was countered by bringing up the fact that the area has not been in a natural state for such a long time, that no one knew what that was.
Other issues such as drainage came up, which had two aspects, water draining onto the site, and water draining off of it. It was somewhat of a surprise that they want neither, as polluted runoff from city streets entering the campus would pose a hazard to school children. Water leaving the campus to join the adjacent L.A River would also be a problem, as it would first have to cross the railroad right-of-way, bringing with it some very toxic compounds from that ground. (Of course, rainwater run off already goes into the L.A. River, so I don't get what the difference would be.)
Finally, it may interest you that the high tension power lines will be moved to the extreme perimeter of the campus, instead of cutting straight across it as they do now. The LAUSD actually has an "EMF" consultant (electro-magnetic fields) to help make sure the placement and proximity of power lines there will cause no undue health effects. Also, as the southwestern side of the site is bounded by the train tracks, a distance of 120 feet must be maintained as a buffer-zone to protect against possible train wrecks or railroad related flying debris danger.
The LAUSD plans to have possession of the site by February or March, and intends to open the new school by 2009-2010.

Good News Develops for Vacant Glassell Site
by Tom Topping
The long vacant lot at Verdugo Road, Eagle Rock Blvd., and the Glendale Freeway is the site of another proposed development. Some readers will remember the McDonald's proposal that went over like a lead balloon with community activists in Glassell Park. At that time, a community split over the proposal was able to tilt the scales against a McDonald's, helped when city forces mysteriously installed "no left turn" and "no U-turn" signs in the center divider, when no need for that ever existed before.
A zoning administrator at that time provided a written report calling the traffic patterns in that area "tortured". (Well they were tortured after all the no turning signs were installed) The proposal was turned down mostly on the basis of that report.
Tonight, though, there was nothing but winks and smiles as a new developer disclosed his plans. "Mixed use" is the buzz word in the development community lately, and the proposal to build these town houses above, with retail spaces below was well received.
The Glassell Park Planning and Land Use Committee were all smiles as they saw what they considered to be a desireable plan. Of course, they would like almost anything (besides a McDonald's) compared to the long abandoned lot which includes the vacated intersection of Verdugo Road and Fletcher Drive, long a problem area known for illegal dumping and criminal activity. Developer Mr. Brown stressed the importance of doing it on a fast track.
He was asking for letter of support from the committee. One committee member was concerned about the the unwillingness of developers to underground the power lines that run adjacent to the project.
Mr Brown said, "These are not your normal types of power poles, these are high voltage ones that are part of a system in the city." He cautioned that it would not be possible for the lines to be moved underground and paid for by the developer. Another community member asked if the lines could be moved to the rear of the property, out of sight. Mr. Brown hesitated, and said, "I have no idea."
Another member was asking for the addition of a community kiosk, a sort of bulletin board for community information, to be included in the development. Developers cautioned that outdoor kiosks are not maintained as well as would be desired, and that the possibility of a coffee shop as one of the tenants would do a better job fulfilling that need; having a indoor bulletin board there.
Finally, a motion was made to draft a letter indicating support of the project as proposed and to also support the "early start variance." It was passed by a unanimous vote.

Peter James Burns

On November 3, 2005, after a three year valiant battle with kidney cancer, our cherished Peter J. Burns passed from us. Born the third from the youngest of nine children on May 14, 1946, Pete enjoyed spending his life in his native Eagle Rock. He attended St. Bernard's Grammar School then Cathedral High where he became an avid sports fan. During his years of military service training recruits for Nam he married Gail Selamakos and had his first child Joseph Shane in Fort Carson, Colorado. Returning to Eagle Rock he had his second child, Sandra Lynn, and after a four year apprenticeship he spent the next thirty plus years as a proud and respected journeyman electrician with IBEW Local 11 until illness forced his retirement on October 17, 2002.
Pete loved: his children, family, motorcycles, history, and the history of Los Angeles, museums, no agenda travel, art exhibits, family events and holidays, all sports, coaching baseball and soccer, reading, old trees, cactus, Native American art, the blues, a day in the park, a beautiful sunrise or sunset, birds, Democratic politics, his work and his union.
He is survived by his loving wife Gail, son Joe, daughter Sandie, mother-in-law Betty Flores, sister Alice Ward and brothers Eddie, Jim, John and Henry.
To honor Pete's memory donations may be made to The Wellness Community Foothills, 200 E Del Mar Blvd., Pasadena 91105.

There's Art in Them Hills
by Tom Topping

At right, local artist “Elote” shows the finer points of her Porcelain Dolls

In Highland Park and Eagle Rock, art galleries are popping up left and right. As local neighborhoods in these parts are experiencing a renaissance, so too is the art scene in Northeast L.A. Although many are "Hobby" galleries, subsidized right out of the pockets of gallery owners, they are giving it their all, determined to make it work.
Many of these establishment are not strictly venues to sell art, but real community centers, where neighbors gather to discuss local issues, listen to live music, and participate themselves like during drum circle events. Perhaps most enjoyable for gallery owners is finding, encouraging and displaying the works of local, young, talented, and upcoming artists.
Rosa Maria Marquez is one of the most generous and supportive people you could ever meet. She is the matron on one of these local galleries, one of the earlier ones to pop up. At her "Rock Rose Cafe" gallery on Figueroa Street near Pasadena Avenue, she organizes a variety of events every month. Interspersed along with the Sunday afternoon drum circles and Jazz performances, are some truly bonafied art exhibitions and their associated opening receptions.
I have taken to attending some of these events lately. They are where I always discover interesting art, artists and conversation.
On November 25, local artist "Elote" had her opening. "Elote" is the art moniker that the local artist goes by. On display that night was a collection of her porcelain dolls. Decorated, painted and dressed, the dolls are mounted on podiums, and portray various themes. I was surprised, to say the least, when the featured artist "Elote" turned out to be a lady I know. Some of you will be surprised to learn that you know this woman, too.
Elote, also know as Robin Diaz, working her day job lately at Dave's Chillin' and Grillin' sandwich shop in Eagle Rock, has kept her best side hidden from us. If you don't remember her, look for the attractive, pleasant and very outgoing brunette behind the counter. Only the artfully assembled outfits will give away the secret of an artist's heart beating beneath.
She was genuinely excited and gushing with pride as she played hostess to her second ever opening. Starting out just seven years ago as a graffiti artist, one day she happened upon a porcelain doll at a local second hand store.
"I actually am a very thrifty shopper," she explained. "I came across a porcelain doll and I bought it. I took it home and I made her clothes. I painted her, and I made her jewelry. So from that it's evolved to what it is now."
Her favorite piece tonight is "Maria," a doll dressed like a colonial Spanish-Mexican lady, guarding a night light, or perhaps being protected by it.
"She has that look in her eyes... pristine," Robin/ Elote adds.
For you Spanish speakers out there, you know "elote" is Spanish for "corn." Robin said she chose it because of the importance of the food staple in her family life when she was growing up in particular and of Mexican life and culture in general.
She added a message for other new artists, saying, "Believe in your art. It'll get you wherever you want to get. As long as you believe in yourself, you have that dream, do what you gotta do to get there."
These are just a couple of the many new Artists, Art Galleries and Art venues that have popped up recently in the Northeast Los Angeles area. If you're an artist, these venues are all possible opportunities. If you're in the market to buy art, it is a great place to shop. And even if you're just looking to get out in your local community more often, it's an enjoyable way to spend an evening without traveling too far.


Art Studio C
5145 York Blvd., Highland Park 90042, 323.256.6052 www.artstudioc.com

The Avenue 50 Studio
131 N. Avenue 50, Highland Park, CA 90042, 323.258.1435

CActuS Gallery & Gifts
4534 Eagle Rock Boulevard
Eagle Rock 90041
323.256.6117

Rock Rose Gallery
4108 N. Figueroa, Los Angeles, CA 90042, 323.222.4740
 

WHAT IS CHRISTMAS?
an alternative view
by Christopher Nyerges
Now that the Christmas season is upon us, you can't help but notice that the stores on Colorado and Figueroa and Eagle Rock Blvd. are more crowded, and people are rushing about. Why? What is Christmas?
In my childhood, I learned that the primary purpose for Christmas was to commemorate the birth of Jesus, born in Bethlehem some 2000 years ago. But then, how did Santa Claus fit into the picture, I asked myself? Let's explore the history of Christmas. You might be surprised to learn about some of these.
Some pre-1000 B.C. historical records indicate that Nimrod, a great warrior who lived in ancient Babylon two centuries after The Great Flood, married his mother, Semiramis. When Nimrod died, Semiramis claimed that Nimrod was resurrected out of a tree stump in the form of an evergreen tree. She stated that Nimrod would visit his tree every year on his birthday -- which was December 25 -- and leave gifts upon the tree. This ancient celebration was complete with mistletoe, holly wreaths, and yule logs!
The Nimrod celebration, in those pre-1000 B.C. days, was closely associated with the fluctuations of the solar year. The midwinter fires of ancient Europe were to celebrate the increased length of each day, which eventually became the "Festival of Lights" as celebrated in Europe. Also, December 25 was erroneously designated as the winter solstice.
During the time of the Roman Empire, the people believed in and worshipped Mithra, born on December 25 by Astarte, his virgin mother. Mithra, who was called "The Unconquered Sun," was regularly identified by the worshippers of the sun, since his nativity fell on the same day as the sun festivals.
Further research revealed to me that numerous advanced and "primitive" cultures had similar religious beliefs, from the Egyptians to the Mayans, and many other cultures. Osiris, Quetzalcoatl, and others, all follow similar patterns with a resurrected savior whose birthday was the winter solstice (or a few days before or after the solstice).
Keep in mind that all those celebrations of the solstice had been going on for at least 2000 years prior to the historical birth of Jesus. Some historical records indicate that Jesus's birth was sometime in September of the year 4 or 6 B.C. No one knows for certain. Although the currently adopted versions of the Bible provide no means of precisely determining the birthdate of Jesus, historians know with certainty that it was not on the winter solstice.
And astronomers who've dated various astronomical events that might have been the "star of Bethlehem" -- such as a comet or a triple conjunction of planets -- report that none of the dates coincide with any winter solstice.
When the Christian emperor Constantine came to power in the 4th Century, he began pressuring the largely non-Christian Romans to adopt the newly- "popular" religion of Christianity. But those Romans were reluctant to part with the merriment and festivals that surrounded their "Old Religion." To accommodate their reluctance, Constantine established December 25 as the day to celebrate the coming of the "Son of God" instead of the "sun." Many Old Religion customs were carried over from the "birthday-of-the-sun" celebrations, and blended into the "Son-of-God" (that is, Christmas) celebration.
In the 5th Century, an addition was made to the Christmas celebration. Saint Nicholas, a Roman Catholic bishop of Myra in Asia Minor, became known for the gifts that he gave to newly married couples during the already established Christmas season. Soon, whenever someone received a mysterious gift, it was attributed to Saint Nicholas.
And so today, we have a yearly custom that is an admixture of ancient symbols: the tree, the wreaths, the lights, giving gifts, a birth of a savior, evergreen boughs, and eternal fires.
THE SOLSTICE.
During the winter solstice (usually December 21), the Earth's northern latitudes receive the least amount of sunlight of the year. The days are generally colder, nighttime is longest, and daytime is shortest. The "esoteric meaning" of Jesus's birth at this least-hospitable time of the year is that The Christ comes to reaffirm to Mankind that there is a way out of the darkness, there is a way to the light again, there is a path back, out and up.
BIRTH IN A STABLE.
Jesus's birth in the ignominy of an animal stable symbolizes that each of us IS born into an "animal" existence here on Earthsurface. Another correspondence to the manger is that the pituitary body is situated in a "manger"- like bony depression in the skull, called The Turkish Saddle. The pituitary is the seat of one of our higher minds (dormant in nearly all of us). Thus, the allegory of the birth in the stable also represents the awakening of this higher mind.
WREATH.
The Wreath symbolizes the circle, an ancient symbol. One level of meaning is the cycle of the seasons, with the winter solstice being the end of a cycle as another begins, over and over again. There are several other esoteric meanings of the circle, known even to people in antiquity.
These have been but a few examples of the enrichments I've discovered as I've sincerely looked for the esoteric meanings of each exoteric symbol. It's all there for anyone willing to search openmindedly (i.e., with no preferences or prejudices).
The possibility of Mankind's rediscovering who and what we really are will remain viable as long as the real meaning of the story of the birth of the Christ is kept alive.

Nyerges is the author of The Christmas Melody, a booklet about the origins and meanings of the many Christmas symbols. It is available from the author for $8 (includes postage) at Box 41834, Eagle Rock, CA 90041. Nyerges is also the author of books on the outdoors, and regularly leads outdoor classes. Write to him for more details, or check www.self-reliance.net
 

Food and Election Night:
a taste of the 14th
by Tom Topping
I went to five victory parties last week. Well, calling them "Campaign" parties may be more accurate, only one was a victory party. Although I took a more indirect role in this election, I followed it as closely as I could, and did my best to cover it fairly and accurately.
The evening started at Brian Heckmann's home. When I arrived, they were just sending out for their second round of Pizza's. The mood was light, there was lots of joking all around. A small number of people was gathered there. Would he have done anything different, if he had know three months ago what he knows now?
"The actual mechanic's of running a campaign I'm now very very familiar with, and I would run it very differently, and do even better if I run a second time," he said. For a first timer, he did well, and being a republican helped him to get the endorsement of County Supervisor Mike Antonovich, which surprised even him.
Next on the list after I picked up my lady friend was to get to the Ebell Club in Highland Park, the location of Ruby deVera's ceremonies. Wow, if this was a food article, I would have had plenty to write about. Strongly supported by the Filipino community, they offered a wide array of the ethnic specialties.
Even though it was her first try as well, she had worked on many campaigns over the years, and knew the ropes. "We did get a lot of walk-in voters today... they didn't know where to vote... we had a computer all set up, and we even escorted them to the polls." Her team's efforts to register and activate local Filipino voters will impact local politics in the area for years.
The food was delicious, I tried a little, but I was pacing myself... I was determined to eat my way around the 14th district.
We headed back to Eagle Rock to the Nogueira Estate, where the party for former Councilman Pacheco was held. The mood was positive, and we knew most of the people there. Here they had tamales. You had a choice between chicken or pork. And the desserts- wow. It was a fun time, but preliminary results showed Mr. Pacheco with a huge vote deficit, and worse for him, his main opponent Huizar was showing with 51%. If it maintained, there would be no second chance, the race would be over.
However, with only a few percent of the precincts reporting there was still a chance for confidence in the Pacheco camp. "I'm really happy, we're ready for runoff, everything points to a runoff, and I'm going to use the fact that he ran a dirty campaign, and really play back to how he's a dishonest person." I asked if he thought he was getting better at the job of campaigning. He said, "It's not so much about that, it's about giving voters a voice, and ultimately that's what I think, we'll be presenting to the voters is a better choice."
The Spanish language TV channel 62 news crew was there, reporting live from the party, surrounded by chanting and placard waving Pacheco supporters.
It was about 10:30, and I just had to get to the Huizar Party in Boyle Heights. On the way there I stopped at El Arco Iris restaurant, where the party for candidate Crystal Arceo was held. The hall was decorated beautifully for the somewhat small gathering.
Ms. Arceo was not the same person we met at the Eagle Rock Association's meet and greet three months ago. The way she presented herself, the way she spoke and her understanding of community issues had matured immensely. The 19 year old candidate could easily pass for thirty now, wherever she goes.
Since we were not that familiar with Boyle Heights, traveling its empty streets at 11:00 pm carried a certain edgy uneasiness. But there were many people at the Salisian High School Campus, though most were leaving by then.
Upon entering the Gymnasium, the TV crews were mobbing José Huizar. The whole place vibrated with the energy of victory. I soon knew why. As more precincts were counted, the numbers showed a higher and higher percentage for Mr. Huizar. Now at 54% of the vote, he was all but claiming victory.
If any candidate receives just over 50% of the vote, he wins the election without a runoff. Anyway, there was still plenty of chicken, salad, beans, rice and salsa, so I had to eat a little- for impartiality's sake! I finally got to have a word with José.
Did he have any idea he would win by such large numbers? "No, um, I hope they stay the same, it's too early; 18% of the precincts reporting, 54% are in my favor. I hope it either stays the same or increases. We were strong out there, we had 650 volunteers."
He pledged if the numbers held, to get right down to business the next night, because the district's been without a councilman for 5 months and there is lots of work to be done.
Well, I just had to get back to Pacheco's. I really have no ill will toward him, but let's face it, who can resist looking at the aftermath of a train wreck? As we arrived, folks were leaving. Things were very quiet. They were just about to wrap things up.
In the kitchen, huddled around a laptop were Pacheco campaign operatives, host Michael Nogueira and the former councilman. Every few minutes they hit the "refresh" button, hoping for good news to arrive across the internet.
There it was, now with 41% of the precincts counted. Huizar, about 54%; Pacheco 26%. I had a piece of chocolate mousse cake that was to die for. Nick was still holding on, hoping that the numbers could change enough to force a runoff.
I just didn't have the heart to ask him any more questions on tape, or even take a photo of that rather dismal scene.
I returned home, got the election results up on my computer, and fell asleep trying to count up how many calories I exceeded my diet by that night. I came up with 27 percentage points, the same amount Huizar ended up beating Pacheco by.

candidate                     Votes       %of vote

JOSE HUIZAR              19,901   54.31
NICK PACHECO           9,680   26.42
RUBY B DE VERA         1,885     5.14
BRIAN HECKMANN    1,446     3.95
J JIMENEZ                         793    2.16
DAVID JOHN SANCHEZ 792    2.16
DIANA J NEWBERRY      697    1.9
CRYSTAL ARCEO            618    1.69
PAUL G GONZALES         589    1.61
CLIFFORD R MOSELEY   244    0.67

Cruisin’ With Mary

Greetings Eagle Rock! Last night was our last cruise of 2005 at Jim's Burgers. This morning I had myself a good cry. It was a windy, blustery cruise filled with generosity, kindness, and full hearts. Jim's has closed, and the new owners of Oinkster took possession last week. They kindly turned on the lights and opened the restroom for our cruise in... thanks Fred and Max!!
November is the month the Rockin' Rodders distribute money and toys. The toys are donated by club members and guests. We had close to 100 toys which were given to GLAD (Greater Los Angeles Agency on Deafness) for their holiday kids' party at Oxy. GLAD is based in Eagle Rock and serves hundreds of families in L.A. with deaf or hearing impaired members.
Many people feel tapped out this year as far as the number of disasters worldwide: The tsunami, hurricane Katrina, and various earthquakes. GLAD indicated that they had fewer toys than usual this year because resources are stretched so thin. All of the generous toy donations made an impressive show of warmth and caring.
We also gave out $1,500 in cash donations as follows: $300 each to the Almansor Center in Alhambra, the Feral Cat Alliance, and 3 local families (2 from the local Victory Outreach).
The Rockin' Rodders are able to give back to the community with money from our monthly raffles. 2005 was our best raffle year yet, thanks to the 'Raffle Queen', Terrye Munday, Anita Gonzalez, and Amy Peters. Their dedication and creativity helps make these donations possible.
A big thank you also to our sponsors: Jim's Burgers/ Oinkster, Sir Michael's, One Stop Tires, Tritch Hardware, Verdugo Hardware, Art Sand, and all those individuals who donated to our raffles. Don't forget to patronize these businesses this holiday season! We also would like to wish previous Jim's Burger owners Mr. Kim & family all the best in their new endeavors.
In between taking pictures, organizing toys that kept blowing away and greeting guests, I managed to briefly talk to a new guest for my 'Pick of the Month'. Emily has a pink 1960 Rambler with tribal pin striping. The Rambler has a stock 6 cylinder engine with a 3 speed manual trans. The interior is redone and the original dash is in very nice condition. She's a member of an all female car club in L.A. called the Hell's Belles. This club has chapters in San Francisco and Seattle. Although their membership is currently small, this is an exciting time for all-girl clubs in what used to be a male-only hobby.
Thanksgiving to New Year's is always an emotional time for me. I don't know why (it's not because some of my childhood memories are so great...). All it takes is for me to hear John Lennon's "So this is Christmas" to reduce me to tears and thoughtfulness. If you listen to the lyrics, you can reflect on what you have or haven't done this year, and the hopefulness for the next year. Ok, enough of that. By the way, I like those tacky old aluminum Christmas trees...
The Rockin' Rodders will celebrate our 10 year anniversary in 2006. I plan to write more on our club history in future issues. As the car club that gives back to ER, we will be visible in a big way. We have several special community events planned as well as our participation in Concerts in the Park for next summer. We'll help Oinkster celebrate their grand opening, hopefully in Feb. 2006. In the meantime, we have the green light to meet at Pete's Blue Chip for our Jan. cruise if need be. We'll keep you posted!

Artichoke

by Mindy Jones
Have you ever rocked out to science? Do you ever wonder where the songs about paleontologists are? Wanna get groovy to tunes about Luther Burbank, Thomas Jefferson and Buckminster Fuller? Well, come on then!
Let me introduce you to Artichoke, an indie-pop band from Highland Park that would love to have you boppin' your head to their ultra-peppy science sound.
Timothy Sellers (guitar, bass, vocals, lyrics) an artist who was once a physics major, heads up this quirky bunch, accompanied by Sharon McGunigle (accordion, vocals), Andrew Grzenia (bass), Craig Polding (guitar), Gerry Porter (drums) and Steve Collins (theremin), who also has the honor of being the bands only full-fledged scientist (he works at J.P.L. in Pasadena)!
Artichoke's newest album, "26 Scientists Volume One: Anning – Malthus" is such an exceptionally fun, rockin' and uhh… educational listen. If only I could've had this in high school… sorry, Mr. Krone.
Kicking off the album is "Einstein, Albert (1879-1955)", a high energy biography that's full of funny facts. Einstein was a notoriously bad violinist and he spent a lot of his time sleeping… hmmm, interesting. "By the annum mirabilus nineteen hundred and five, I abandoned the absolutes, And showed that you never arrive, At the speed of light".
"Anning, Mary (1799-1847)" is definitely one of my favorites! Super catchy surf-rock with a funky, danceable beat and infectious melody. "Do you know Mary Anning?, Born on a southern shore, Her father Richard was a cabinetmaker, And Richard died too early and left the Annings poor, But lucky Mary Anning found an ichthyosaur".
Next up is "Burbank, Luther (1849-1926)" about the American horticulturist. With a hypnotizing bass line, awesome accordion and dual guy/girl vocals, Artichoke definitely makes learning a groovy, great time! "Burbank never made it to college, But he read Darwin's Variation of Animals and Plants Under Domestication and he had a good idea what to do, He sold the rights to his potato for 150 bucks and moved to California, (Not Burbank, California, by the way; That city was named for a sheep-ranching dentist)".
"Galilei, Galileo (1564-1642)" is a rockin' tune full of intricate drum taps, swirl-y theremin wails and rippin' guitar. "Galileo Galilei bought a telescope, In an instant what was distant appeared so close, He added to the gadget another lens, For magnifying objects and making friends".
I had never heard of "Heisenberg, Werner (1901-1976)" who was the German physicist who derived the uncertainty principle. This song revels in it's sparse, pounding drums, distorted vocals and circus-style accordion. Crazy-fun melody tinged with reverb and feedback… another favorite. "Heisenberg determined that uncertainty was la la la la!, Einstein could not accept this bah-bah! bah-bah!, But why is not the question it's how".
"Malthus, Thomas Robert (1766-1834)" is a beautiful song with dreamy island guitar, breezy theremin and splashy cymbals. An epic, mystical journey through political economy. "Population doubles every 25 years, Just a couple decades uh-oh uh-oh, Well you know we double but the food supply, doesn't double with us uh-oh uh-oh".
Now, I'm sure everyone's heard of "Darwin, Charles Robert (1809-1882)" the controversial English naturalist. On this tune, Artichoke really reminds me of They Might Be Giants with their storytelling vocals and uniquely off-kilter beats. The female harmonies/vocals on this track are superb and compliment the sassy flair of their music. "Darwin pondered variations, The reasons for mutations, He wasn't feeling good, But he had money and time, He published The Origin of Species by Natural Selection, A lot of people didn't want to be descended from apes".
"Lister, Joseph (1827-1912)" is a bounce-y rockabilly song about the English physician that is hailed as the father of aseptic surgery and is also the namesake of Listerine! "Hey fools was your tools in acid, Gangrene seems to be in fashion, Killer diller the microbe is gonna give you disease, Hey fools wash your tools in acid… No one understands but Lister".
Artichoke will be following up this album with "26 Scientists Volume Two" completing their A to Z list of scientist honoring songs. I personally, can't wait. I don't think I've ever felt smarter after listening to an album, so Artichoke definitely won me over in that department. You can catch up with Artichoke at Mr. T's Bowl (in Highland Park) where they perform live the second Friday of every month or at www.artichoketheband.com (where you can also purchase this album).
So come on and have some fun with science… Artichoke style!