Boulevard Sentinel --- June 2001

Concerts in the Park

Mark your calendars for the upcoming "Concerts in the Park" at the Eagle Rock Recreation Center this summer.

Scheduled concerts are:

July 8 - Captain Cardiac and the Coronaries, sponsored by Adelphia Cable

July 22 - Spellman's Magic Spectacular and the ERHS Choir.

August 5 - "We the People" (70's music), Sponsored by Dilbeck Realtors.

August 19 - Jack Lantz Big Band music, Sponsored by GAMC

For additional information contact Michael Nogueira at (323) 225-5466.

Eagle Rock Farmer's Market

The Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce proudly announces the arrival of "Party Pony and Friends" to the weekly Farmer's Market beginning this Friday. Tell your family and friends to bring the little ones to visit the petting zoo and ride the ponies. The Eagle Rock Farmers Market is located on Caspar St. at Colorado Blvd., and takes place from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. every Friday afternoon.

Stop Sign Arrives

After the death of Alex Sanna last year, and the injury of another child struck in the cross walk a few months ago, a stop sign has been permanently placed on Yosemite Drive at Avoca Street. Rockdale Elementary School students who approach the school from the west or south will have the benefit of additional safety on their daily trip.

N.E.A.T. Business Seminar

The Northeast Awareness Team will hold its general meeting on June 27th. The scheduled speakers presentation will be: "How to Improve your Business." The seminar is free and open to everyone. It will be at Club Oasis, 2435 Colorado Blvd., and will start at 7:00 p.m. For more information, call Ray at 323 855 4456.

Choosing Boundry Lines

The area of Northeast Los Angeles is continuing the process to form a Neighborhood Council. There have been a series of meetings held to facilitate its creation. The next one is to decide boundaries. It will be held at Ramona Hall on Sunday, June 10th, from 3:00 to 5:30 p.m. Scheduled is an update on current situation, a facilitated discussion, a review of boundary proposals, and voting on boundaries. All northeast residents are welcome and encouraged to attend. Ramona Hall is located at 4580 N. Figueroa Street, next to Sycamore Grove Park. For more information call: Anna Carpenter at (323) 222 2404 or Natalie Seaman at (323) 223 0996.

Deadly Chase Ends Crime Spree

The deadly police pursuit that ended last month in front of Von's Market on Figueroa with the death of an innocent driver, Milo Flores of Alhambra, also may have ended an ongoing crime spree that had spanned many months. It turned out that the driver, William Tanielian and an accomplice found two hours later in Van Nuys, are suspected of being the "Fast Food Bandits" who have robbed as many as 50 fast food restaurants, 30 of those in Los Angeles.

The captured suspects matched the description of the two thugs who robbed Pete's Blue Chip, the fast food restaurant on Colorado Blvd., two months ago. They may also be the same ones responsible for some local home robberies. Two suspects who gained entry into the home of a local couple, did so by impersonating police officers. The impostors, waited outside for the homeowner to leave and then broke in and ransacked the house, taking money, cameras and jewelry.

When photos from surveillance cameras appeared on television, they were recognized as possibly being the home invaders. Those same surveillance photos also brought some remarks from a local wholesale auto parts delivery driver who recognized one of the suspects as a past coworker who delivered parts for the same company.

Editorial: The Professional Non-Profit Board!

From the letters and E-mails I receive, and the many conversations I have, it is completely clear that readers of the Boulevard Sentinel enjoy and look forward to hearing about the various actions and statements of Eagle Rock Community "Leaders."

But before I start on that, let me first thank the good citizens who heeded my call and used their precious time and energy to call Councilman Pacheco's Office to support my request to receive copies of the "Verizon Cell Tower Fund" records. It was either that or the Freedom of Information Act request that I sent to the Councilman, that resulted in the timely delivery of a considerable package of material last month. Whichever it was, for those who responded, thank you.

The material provided some insight to how "things" really work, when it comes to the bumpy reality of politics, money, community "leaders" and land use and planning issues (described as a "contact sport" in the weekly e-mail bulletin from the Eagle Rock Association).

A report on the cell tower is pending, however the issue of a Professional Nonprofit Board is much more current, considering the $300,000 of state funds allocated to the revitalization of Eagle Rock's Commercial areas.

What Does "Professional" Mean to You?

The Eagle Rock Community Preservation and Revitalization Corporation (ERCPR) began as a way for all community stakeholders to have a say in the process of revitalization of commercial areas. It became a nonprofit board to enable it to apply for, receive and disburse funds to forward the revitalization effort. Lately though, the President (Linda Allen) and Secretary (Hillary Norton Orozco) often expressed upset, if not outrage, at the reports of their words and deeds that have appeared in these pages.

I believe that some behind the scenes conversations led these officers to agree on a new concept to propose entitled "Board Member Rights and Responsibilities." This was also often referred to as "Being Professional." However the definition for "Being Professional" really boiled down to only one thing. Certain proceedings of the board should be kept confidential. Or, to be more precise, restrict Tom from publishing it in his paper.

"No one should have fear that their words will be used against them," was the official justification recorded in the minutes. But "loss of future grant funds, and loss of credibility" were two items they brought up when asked "What are you afraid of?"

A Worthy Cause

Indeed, looking to protect the future of the ERCPR, and therefore the enhancement and revitalization of Eagle Rock is a fine and honorable intention, to be sure.

But shall we now take a look at what would truly breathe life into that same intention? And let us also look at what would detract from it.

Is This Professional?

To form a nonprofit corporation, articles of incorporation must be drawn to officially declare the name, location and specific purpose of the corporation among other things. One would imagine that a "professional" board would not stray too far from its articles of incorporation.

Hmmm... now lets see here, the ERCPR has continually taken as its job to promote the B.I.D. (Business Improvement Assessment -a TAX).

Article VII of says that "no substantial part of the activities ... shall be the carrying on of propaganda or otherwise trying to influence legislation."

It definitely takes an act of the city council, our legislative body, to institute a B.I.D., so that is one continuing effort that is a clear violation of the ERCPR's articles of incorporation. Would a Professional board do that?

If it's Brown... Flush it!

The Brown Act is California's open meeting law. Any board that was created with public money, acts to levy taxes or has on its board an elected official, (among other qualifiers) must comply with the Brown Act. This act requires that all meetings be open to the public and the press, and that agendas be sent out and posted 72 hr's before the meeting takes place, and among other things, requires that only items on the agenda be acted upon.

The ERCPR president has ferociously and repeatedly insisted that the Brown Act does not apply to them. Later, as the position of the elected official was vacated by the councilman, a fresh declaration was issued that now the Brown Act does not apply. Never mind the contradictions, but ask yourself this; Should a professional board embrace an open meeting law, or spend its resources trying to get around it?

By the WAY...

Officers and Board members were continually surprised and upset to be reminded when they had acted in violation of their own bylaws. Specifically, the officers have repeatedly taken action as representing ERCPR, without the consent, as the bylaws require, and sometimes without even notifying current board members. A special committee was convened to write the members request grant proposal, which unquestionably was an action of the ERCPR. Board members did not have a chance to grant their approval and were not even notified.

When the president of the ERCPR planned meetings as a representative of ERCPR, with representatives of other community groups to discuss the receiving of Cell Tower community funds, board members not only did not give their approval, but they were never asked or even told the meetings occurred.

Would you call operating in this manner professional?

Finally, the bylaws state that any proposed amendment to the bylaws shall be given to each director at least thirty days before the meeting at which the proposed amendment is to be voted upon. So last month, the bylaws were amended, without the required notice, to allow electronic (E-mail) voting on issues and actions, etc. Consequently, a proposal to cosponsor a business meeting with TERA was sent out for discussion and approved.

What do you think a "Professional" board would do now? . . .

Which do you think is the truly unprofessional... the illegitimate actions of the board and its officers, or the reporting of those actions to the public? You can call ERCPR President Linda Allen and let her know what you think. Call her at 323-257-2652.

The Passing of Rosario Braid

On Monday, May 14, Rosario Braid passed away as a result of a traffic accident.

Rosa, as her friends and family knew her, was a quiet gentlewoman. She was born in East Los Angeles as one of six children. Her early years were spent at Borchard Farms in Newbury Park. She came to live in Eagle Rock with her family at age 10 and remained the rest of her life. Rose turned 60 on April 1.

For 15 years Rosa worked at Adams Rite in Glendale as a machinist. When the company moved to a new location, she became a child-care giver, a job she was well suited for.

If you were to describe Rosa, the first thing that comes to mind would be what a friendly happy person she was. She had a very positive outlook on life. But her family would also tell you that she could be very strong-minded and determined. Her family was her number one priority.

Rosa leaves behind two sons, Gordon and wife Jayne Braid, Steve and wife Rhonda Jacobs, grand children Travis and Joshua Braid, and Amy, Jesse and Jeremy Jacobs, three sisters and one brother.

She was a special lady and will be missed by all who knew her.

Eagle Vista Seniors

On June 5th the Eagle Vista Seniors host members born in June with birthday cake at the regular 10 a.m. meeting. (Board meeting 9:30 am.)

Carl Raggio will speak on the topic "Current Events" at the June 12th gathering.

No meeting will be held on June 19th because, on June 20th, the seniors who have signed up will go on a trip to the Laurence Welk Theatre in Escondido. The bus leaves from Eagle Vista Park at 8:00 a.m. SHARP!

June 26th there will be BINGO with Carlos Cruz as caller.

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

Community Leader,

Despite Councilmember Galanter's warnings that they were violating the very spirit of the Neighborhood Council movement, members of the City Council voted today to change how the network of Neighborhood Councils would be financed.

In a mixed move, the City Council gave final approval to a plan for certification of Neighborhood Councils, but deleted some of the funding promised last week when neighborhood organizers throughout the city testified at public hearing.

Councilmember Galanter urged the City Council to delay action until Friday in order to allow residents and Neighborhood Council organizers time to comment on the changes in funding. She noted that it was wrong to launch a program of neighborhood empowerment (with strong requirements for early notification to communities) without notifying people of changes in the plan and without inviting them to comment.

Last week, the City Council gave preliminary approval to a Neighborhood Council plan that promised to give each certified Neighborhood Council city funds upon certification. The money was meant to pay for start-up costs and would have been controlled by the new Neighborhood Councils. The plan approved last week also called for creation of a matching grant program, where Neighborhood Councils could apply for money for special projects.

But late Friday afternoon, the Council's Ad Hoc Committee on the City Budget recommended changes to plan, eliminating the match requirement for the grants, but also deleting funds to give automatic start-up money to Neighborhood Councils upon certification.

Instead, the Budget Committee opted to have the Department of Neighborhood Empowerment control that pot of money. The money will be used for 29 Neighborhood Access Centers, where Neighborhood Councils will have use of computers and photocopiers. The Budget Committee's concept was that the city would directly pay for the start-up costs of new councils.

Those changes came back to the full City Council today for debate.

Councilmember Galanter argued it was wrong to vote on those changes without hearing from the people who have spent months organizing Neighborhood Councils. The Council acted anyway. So, the good news is that the City Council unanimously gave final approval to the Neighborhood Council plan allowing groups to apply for certification beginning October 1, and reaffirmed that councils would get city funding and city staff.

The bad news is that the City Council changed how that funding and staffing will be allocated - without the outreach and public comment appropriate for an issue that is all about public involvement.

And that's the latest from City Hall.

Letter to the Editor

Dear Tom and Staff,

Please accept our donation. Thank you so much for your write up about our 'Friends' Group and the notice of our recent book sale. It was a great success!

Friends of the Eagle Rock Library

Letter to the Editor

Tom,

I would like to say that myself and the entire community really enjoys getting your teams Sentinel each month. It is really refreshing to get the insight you seem to have on the going on of our civic leaders and the local citizens. I love your commentaries, wit and guts to get the truth out.

Thanks for what you are doing - it does make a difference.

Mike Sumner

Dear Friends,

After nearly two very rewarding years with Senator Scott, I am ending my service for the California State Senate. Although, I will miss the senator's office greatly I am looking forward to a new challenge, I will be working for the City of Pasadena. I've opted for a new position as field representative for Victor Gordo, the newly-elected Councilmember.

Hence, I am also taking this opportunity to forward the announcement to fill my position. Senator Scott is an excellent person and great legislator to work for, and thus, I highly recommend him as an employer. Please help me spread the word about this new opportunity.

Best regards, FELIPE E. AGREDANO-LOZANO, MTS

Letter to the Editor

Dear Tom,

Congratulations on your 5th Anniversary of the Sentinel and its steady growth and improvement - keep it up!

Just received your May issue and noted with sadness Barney Tiernan's passing in an item by Tony Spinella. This report needs correction.

Morgan Odell, Lou Scroggin, Dick Lindsey and I organized the Eagle Rock Athletic Club in 1937 and used that name for two years for our basketball team as a competitor and member of the evening Basketball League which played its games at Glendale High. Our ERAC team was made up from members of Eagle Rock High's championship teams of 1937 & 1938 which we more than held our own against older players representing Western Air Express, Lockheed and other major corporations in the Glendale League. The Glendale "News Press" gave the surprising Eagle Rock AC Team a lot of coverage.

Gene Henbreuck and some ex-ERHS footballers took over the name Eagle Rock Athletic Club from us and had a great team or two starting about 1941 and after the war.

Sincerely, Bert Fraleigh, S' 38 ERHS

Letters Policy

The Boulevard Sentinel welcomes the opinions and comments of our readers. Letters, e-mails, etc., must include name and contact information for the purpose of verification. No anonymous letters will be published, however the writers name may be withheld upon request. We reserve to right to edit for available space and clarity.

The Publisher

The Miracles of the R.O.C.K.

By Genine Sauer

"I was bored after school and the R.O.C.K. (center) gives me the option of hanging out with friends or doing my homework in a safe environment off the streets," remarked Beckie Singer, a Youth Counsel member and frequent visitor to RO.C.K.

R.O.C.K. (Reach Our Community Kids) exists solely to provide a positive after school environment for ages 12 to 18. While R.O.C.K. is based on Christian principles and values, religion is not a requirement for participation at R.O.C.K. or its activities. R.O.C.K. was developed to help provide emotional, social and academic assistance to the youth of our neighborhood.

Adult peer counselors volunteer a minimum of three hours a week at the center. During this time they are available to help students with Math, English, Spanish or Computer training along with access to the Internet. As there are no other after-school/youth programs in this area, R.O.C.K. is a much needed service.

Almost 200 teens have visited R.O.C.K. since they opened the doors in early February. There was a remarkable amount of students visiting the center in the first weeks of opening! The average amount of teens visiting R.O.C.K. is 105 per week, 20-25 students per day!

If you're a local teen and haven't paid a visit to R.O.C.K. you are really missing out! The Center operates a game room with Foosball, Arcade games and a pool table. There are sofas, a television and a snack machine available too.

The study area offers a quiet location for students to work on homework assignments (which can be typed in the Computer Lab), or to start cramming for Finals.

A job-training workshop is conducted quarterly to help teens learn job hunting and interviewing techniques along with resume writing.

"Beauty and Beyond" a free Makeover/Self-Improvement course started on May 21st with 6 girls attending.

The Center is still in need of upgraded computers and printers, to help assist the youth at the R.O.C.K.

Speak and Write!

LITERACY FESTIVAL TO BE HELD JUNE 4-9

With a focus on the rich history and heritage of northeast Los Angeles, a new community-based writing and speaking competition on June 4-9 will give students and adults a new outlet to showcase their talents. Students in the fifth through 12th grades and adults living in Eagle Rock, Highland Park, Lincoln Heights, Glassell Park and Cypress Park are eligible to enter the 2001 Speak and Write! Literacy Festival to be held at locations throughout northeast Los Angeles.

Sponsored in part by LAUSD District F, the Hathaway Family Resource Center, the Los Angeles Police Historical Society, Arroyo Bonito and Occidental College, the six-day festival will feature poetry, essay, story and political column contests, a mock trial competition and logo and family album contests. Cash prizes will be awarded in most competitions. "We want to give the people of northeast Los Angeles new opportunities to demonstrate their writing and speaking skills and tap into the remarkable histories and sense of pride that exists in the communities that lie along the Arroyo Seco," said Frank Binch, festival organizer.

The 2001 Speak and Write! Festival will include:

A Speak and Write! logo design contest for students in grades 5 through 12 and adults of all ages. The design that best captures the spirit of the festival and of northeast Los Angeles will win $300.

The Arroyo Stories contest for middle and high school students and adults. Research and write a story about some aspect of northeast Los Angeles' often-untold history for a $100 top prize.

The Arroyo Essay contest for fifth and sixth-graders. The best essay on how to create safer communities will win $100.

The Political Column Contest for high school students and adults. The best column about northeast Los Angeles' rich political history will win $100.

The Arroyo Poetry contest for middle and high school students and adults of all ages. Finalists will read their poems to a live audience at the Highland Park Ebell Club and compete for cash prizes.

The Arroyo Poetry Beginnings competition for elementary school students.

A Mock Trial competition for middle and high school students.

An Arroyo Family Album contest for parents of elementary, middle and high school students that will provide awards for family photo albums that best tell the story of a family living in northeast Pasadena.

Registration forms and complete information are available online at http://www.nelanet.org/NELAspeak&write.htm or at the Lincoln High School Parents Center, 3501 N. Broadway; the Franklin High School main office, 820 N. Avenue 54; the Nightingale Middle School Parents Center, 3311 N. Figueroa; the Burbank Middle School main office, 6460 N. Figueroa; the Wilson-Lincoln Community Adult School, 4500 Multnomah; the Arroyo Seco Regional Library, 6154 N. Figueroa; the Lincoln Heights Library, 2530 Workman; the Eagle Rock Library, 5027 Caspar; the Rock Rose Gallery, 4108 N. Figueroa; and R.O.C.K. Eagle Rock.

For more information, email speaknwrite@aol.com or visit any of the locations listed above.

Eagle Rock Community Cultural Center Events

Eagle Rockopoly is now on sale for $25 per game or $20 per game for purchases of five or more games.

Sign up now for Session #1 of the Summer Art Camp which begins on Monday, June 25th. The hours are from 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. The cost is $150.00 for non-members and $135.00 for members.

The Cultural Center is located at 2225 Colorado Boulevard. For information regarding Cultural Center activities or registration contact the center at (323) 226-1617

"Cuba Ya!"

An Art Exhibit Featuring Cuban-Born and Cuban-American Artists

curated by Eddy Bello-Sandoval

Cuban-born and Cuban-American artists living in and around the Los Angeles area will unite in an art exhibit of differing cultural presence at the Avenue 50 Studio. Featured artists include Viredo Espinosa, Gabriela Mayor, Ed "Chappo" Gomez, Gloria Longval, Rick Blanco, Jorge Valdes, Eddy Bello-Sandoval, Ismael, and invited guest artist Vibiana Aparicio-Chamberlain.

This union of island and continent reflects the dichotomy between the two art worlds and the different levels of cubanismo these artists feel.

These works reveal the very powerful influence of environment and culture in our lives. This exhibition also further enriches our understanding of the role Afro-Cuban culture plays on the Cuban-born artists.

"Cuba Ya" is an art exhibit for those desiring more information about Cuban culture, and is part of the Cuba Presencia en Los Angeles Festival.

RECEPTION: Friday, May 18, 2001 from 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

WHERE: The Avenue 50 Studio, 131 North Avenue 50, Highland Park, CA 90042 (323) 258-1435; e-mail: ave50studio@msn.com

Cuba Ya! continues through June 10, 2001.

Hours: 10-12 noon Tuesday through Friday, 11-5:00 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Sponsored in part by cubaculturaltours.com

Life Without Daddy

By Genine Sauer

It is hard to realize how important my dad was in my life until he was gone. I never realized what a big influence he was to me every single day until he passed away. There are so many pictures of my daddy holding me and playing with me when I was little.

I remember when I was growing up how dad (and mom) helped learn how to ride a bike and skate. I remember going to church with my parents every Sunday. Of course, how could I forget my first visit to Dodger Stadium to watch them play (and win!) Many times, too many to ever count, dad and I watched the Dodgers play or his favorite football team (the former Los Angeles) Rams play ball.

I can still remember dad singing 'Daddy's Little Girl' to me every night before I went to sleep. I remember how proud he was when I went in the military and how handsome he looked in a tuxedo the day I got married. I realized after I had my son, that some of the actions I take with my child is based on what my parents taught me.

My daddy was always there for me and after I returned to Eagle Rock he became more like a father-figure to my son. My dad may be gone from my sight now, but, his memory will live in my heart forever, because I will always be Daddy's Little Girl!

Cruisin' with Conrad

Hello Eagle Rock,

The year is almost half over, where does the time go?

Hope you had a safe and pleasant Memorial Day. I always look back and think of the relatives that went and did their duty when called to the service. I always have a thank you in my heart for them and all the rest of those that went. It does not matter what conflict they were involved in, they went and did their duty. Unfortunately, some did not return and that is the hard part. So, if you have a loved one that is still with you, that had to serve, cherish them. We are free because of them. There are many facets to this world of hot rodding. There are coupes, roadsters, fat fendered coupes and sedans, pickups, customs and lowriders to name a few. Now some would say I should not put lowriders in with hot rods. I say they are part of the car culture. Now that I stuck my neck out, let me explain. I don't think I will ever build one for myself, but I can appreciate the creativity that goes into one. Some of the lowriders are works of art and mechanical master pieces. The builders put as much labor of love as I put into my cars. It is an extension of ourselves (ego). I know some of the lowriders put a lot more money in their cars than I ever will in mine. And the end result will be the difference between an excellent job and a premium job.

Now why did I bring up this lowrider thing? Well, let me tell you. On June 24, their will be a lowrider show on Figueroa between Ave 52 and Ave 57. If you have never seen a lowrider up close, go check it out. There will be some of the best in Southern California in attendance.

We had a good turn out for the May cruise night at Jim's Burgers. Lots of new cars showed up. Some were the early type of hot rod made out of many pieces. These are the type of cars fathers were reluctant let their daughters ride in. But they are cool cars.

One roadster was part coupe body and roadster body, with no doors. The doors were filled in, so you had to step over to get in. At least you won't fall out in a turn.

Well, I'm going to get out here

Just cruisin' Conrad

Editors Note:

According to the calendar section in some community publications, the Eagle Rockin' Rodders and their monthly cruise-in is still being advertised as a location to drop off canned food to support the Eagle Rock Christian Food Bank. Unfortunately, the food bank has ceased to exist so please do not bring any canned goods.

However, still being interested in giving to the community, the Eagle Rockin' Rodders have chosen to participate in the Eagle Rock Beautification Collaborative's efforts by participating in the adopt-a-wall anti-graffiti program.

13th Philippine-American Expo June 16-17

Preparations are underway for the 13th Philippine-American Convention Exposition, Food Festival and Auto Show, the longest running and most successful trade show and exposition for the Filipino-American community.

Produced by the Tri-Media Group of Companies with Western Union as presenting sponsor, the Philippine-American Expo will be held on June 16 and 17 at the Los Angeles Convention Center in celebration of

Philippine Independence Day.

On the spotlight in the two-day fun-filled event is popular singer Josephine "Banig" Roberto, a Tri-Media Artist in Excellence Awards and the only Filipino to win the International Star Search Grand Championship.

Other appearances will be made by Miss Philippines and Little Miss Philippines beauty titlists along with Congresswoman Lucille Roybal Allard of the 33rd District, Congressman Xavier Becerra, Congressman Adam Schiff, Philippine Consul General Edwin Bael, Councilmember Nick Pacheco of the 14th District, Councilmember Ed Reyes of District 1 and others.

For more information please call (323) 344-3500 or email: Radiomla@aol.com.

Oxy's Childrens Theater starts Sixth Season JULY 12

College Children's Theater will present "Beauty and the Beatnik, " an original tale, plus three unique adaptations of traditional folktales for a seven-week outdoor run in the Remsen Bird Hillside Theater on the Occidental campus.

In about an hour, a cast of six Occidental students, alumni and professional actors will perform a series of original, thought-provoking and funny stories without props, sets, or special costumes, relying only on their acting and physical skills.

As is the case every year, the script for the featured play, "Beauty and the Beatnik," will be entirely the result of weeks of improvisation by the cast, who draw their inspiration from folk tales from around the world, said Jamie Angell, the theater's artistic director since its inception.

"We work in the round, so the audience is right on top of the action," Angell said. "The unconventional material and the absence of props or costumes force both the actors and the audience to rely on their imaginations. It's remarkably different from most anything else you see in children's theater today."

In addition to "Beauty," the Children's Theater troupe will present three improvised adaptations of international folktales.

Beginning July 12, "Beauty" will be performed outdoors in the Hillside Theater every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 10 a.m. through August 25. All seats are shaded from the sun. Running time for the entire performance is one hour. Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for children ages 12 and under. Group rates are available.

For ticket information, call the Occidental Box Office at (323) 259-2922.

Eagles Club Events

This month at the Fraternal Order of Eagles, located at 1596 Yosemite Drive, the Ladies Auxilliary is putting on two breakfasts, their regular 1st Sunday of the month feast and, for June 17, a special Fathers Day breakfast. All members of the public are welcome to attend the $4 per plate morning feasts.

The Eagles are looking forward to their big summer event, the Hawaiian Luau. This event has been sold out for the last two years in a row and this year should be no exception, so get your tickets early.

Drop by and see what's available if you become an Eagle.

The trustees remind you that the Hall is available for rental for parties, weddings, etc. Call 323 257 8869 to reserve your spot.

Events at the Library

Come learn how to use the Electronic Catalog and the Library on the Web every Monday at 10:30 A.M. Learn how to search for materials, renew items and place books on hold. Bring your library card. All ages are welcome.

The Friends of the Library will not be holding monthly meetings until the fall.

Preschoolers are welcome to come visit for a special storytime beginning at 10:30 A.M. on Tuesday, June 12th and June 26th.

Our "Mad Science" event will turn science on its ear with educational, fun and zany antics at 3:30 P.M. on Thursday, June 28th.

The library is located at 5027 Caspar Avenue in Eagle Rock. For additional information call (323) 258-8078.

Book Preview: Dead Man Blues

Phil Pastras, local resident and member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles has been a muscian and Jazz fan for most of his life. One of his all time favorite jazz musicians was Jelly Roll Morton, and that is the subject of his first published work, Dead Man Blues: Jelly Roll Morton Way Out West. Why did he pick Jelly Roll Morton? "It chose me," said Phil. "He was the first great Jazz composer."

Phil, who is assistant professor in the language Deparment at Pasadena City College, had started looking into the history of Morton as a passing interest. As his research opened more and more material, it uncovered new sources and leads to follow. According to Phil, the manner in which it came to him was so inspired, it was as if Jelly Roll himself was saying "Son, you're gonna tell this!"

The book documents not only the west coast period of Jelly Roll, but also the early west coast Jazz scene, as well as Los Angeles history in the periods of 1917-23 and 1940-41. The book, published by University of California Press, will arrive book stores in July.

Phil's already looking forward to his next project, which will be about another great Jazz composer, Charles Mingus.

Poetry in the Windows IV - Views of the Open Road

Thirty winners of a multilingual competition for Southern California poets will display their work in this yearly festival of multi-ethnic expression. The winning poems will be displayed on posters printed in English and in another of the languages of the community. They will be in the windows of merchants along Figueroa Street, the central business corridor of Highland Park. In honor of historic Route 66 and its iconic associations with romantic adventure, this year's competition will feature poems considering travel and journey, either literally or figuratively.

The items will be on display along Figueroa Street between Avenues 50 and 61 from June 2 through June 30th.

An opening reception will be held on June 2nd at 2:00 p.m. at CINCO, 125 South Avenue 57.

For additional information, (323) 850-8566 or see www.ArroyoArtsCollective.org.

Kiwanis Yard Sale

The yearly Eagle Rock Kiwanis Club yard sale will be at the Kiwanis youth house this year, 1541 Yosemite Drive (corner of Floristan), Eagle Rock. It's going to be on Saturday and Sunday, June 2 and 3rd, 2001, from 9AM to 4PM both days. They claim to have a lot of good stuff this time and invite the folks to come out.

Local Gal releases new music CD

Many Eagle Rock residents know Barbara Ferrara as an astrologer and mom. Barbara is also a songwriter who has been working on a CD of original songs for several years.

"When I lived in England I used to play in local folk clubs in London and Bristol, and also toured Europe with my band, the Fred Bloggs Band. We made a record in the late 70s and then split apart to get on with other areas of our lives, like getting married, having children and working at something other than music. Even though I haven’t been out on many gigs because of my family commitments, I have stayed very dedicated to music, teaching recorder at my children’s school and composing. One exception however is the wonderful new coffee bar we have in Eagle Rock – Sworks. I recently did an open-mike there and found it to be very friendly. I was able to play there and make dinner for my family! What a wonderful addition to our community.

The 9-song CD is a combination of guitar, keyboard, flute and vocal tracks in several genres; there are folk influenced songs, for example "Magnolia", Jazz ballads, like the haunting "I thought it was you", Hip-hop dance tracks and an instrumental "Reflections of John" which is Barbara’s Beatles tribute, altogether amounting to a very interesting CD. "With all the great digital technology we have today, many artists like myself are making their own CDs and selling locally".

If you’d like to find out more about Barbara’s music, and upcoming engagements, please visit her website at www.angelfire.com/music2/alchemy. There are fun links to folk-music artists, a bio, a Bandography and even an astrology section. You can also purchase Barbara’s CD, titled Nothing Between Us for $10 at selected Eagle Rock stores.

Barbara is also featured in the June and July issues of "American Astrology" (in stores now). Her articles are about Evolution versus Creationism, and a cover story called Altering the Cosmos, about Genetic Engineering.

Happily Ever Art Exhibit

Paintings of K. Michael Crawford

June 1 through 30, 2001

Eagle Rock Community Cultural Center

From the moment she could hold a crayon in her hand, there hasn't been a time in K. Michael Crawford's life when she hasn't been drawing and creating limitless number of whimsical and quirky characters...all whom dwell in a magical land within her enchanted imagination.

Since her first book "Timbo and the Butterfly" was published, she has shared her artistry in over Twenty-five Children's Books and Products.

Starting June 1st through the 30th, 2001, K. Michael's Artwork will be on display at the Eagle Rock Community Cultural Center. The Center's hour are Monday through Friday 1 to 6 pm.

Opening Reception is June 9, 2001 from 4 to 7pm. Stop by to meet the artist and to capture some of the magic.

The Arroyo Arts Collective presents... The Arroyo Arts Collective, a community artists' organization in Northeast Los Angeles, presents "The Open Road" an exhibition of its members' work commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the historic Route 66. It will be held at the Judson Gallery of Contemporary and Traditional Art, located at 200 South Avenue 66 in Highland Park.

The Open Road will be on display through the end of June. Gallery hours are Thursday through Saturday from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m.

This month there will be a Lecture and Antique Car Show on June 9th from 1 to 4 p.m., followed by an Outdoor concert and craft show, June 16th from 1 to 4 p.m. and finally "God Bless Americana", a humorous and wacky slide show to debut on June 30th from 7 to 9 p.m.

For more, call the Judson gallery (323) 255-0131 or the Arroyo Arts Collective at (323) 850-8566.

Eagle Rock Graduates -Golf Anyone?

For the last 13 years the Eagle Rock High School men's alumni have been holding an annual golf tournament locally. The proceeds go to a scholarship fund for the graduates.

This year's event will be held July 23rd at Almansor Golf Course in Alhambra. The event is rotated between Almansor and Brookside. It is open to any Eagle Rock High School male graduates, brothers, fathers or friends of graduates. The cost is $90 and includes the entire package.

For additional information or registration contact Ron Jorgensen at (323) 256-8403.

Tangy Orange Salad

Out of the Boulevard Sentinel Test Kitchen

When its time for a light yet nutritious meal, you just can't beat fresh fruits and vegetables. Here's a salad that will provide a healthy alternative for dinner or lunch.

3 naval oranges peeled, separated and cut in thirds

2 medium radishes, chopped

1 green onion, chopped

1/2 clove fresh garlic, crushed and chopped

1 heaping tablespoon low fat plain yogurt

pinch of grated orange peel

Combine radishes, green onions, garlic and yogurt. Grate orange peel over top. Add orange pieces and combine thouroghly. Serve over a bed of fresh spinach leaves, with a nice loaf of french bread. Serves four.

Pacheco's Prayer

The following letter was written by the councilman. I was confused when he sent it to me, not knowing what he meant by "Dear Jesus", but I figured he knows what he is doing, and its not my job to cover his ass anyway. It was I who added the headline "Pacheco's Prayer." He did not expect me to print it and was angry that I did. I found out later that it was his response to an e-mail from a Jesus Robledos who was criticizing Pacheco for the "Gloria Marina" automated phone call that was sent out for Beccerra's campaign that Pacheco was connected to.

He did really write it and sent it to me. I was accused of taking it out of context, but I was given no context with the original message

.

Tom Topping, Publisher & Editor-at-Large

Dear Jesus,

What do I have against Antonio Villaraigosa?

Facts:

1. Antonio asked for my endorsement (and I gave it to him) when he was running for assembly and said ONLY A LATINO could represent that assembly district, BUT later gives that latino seat up to a liberal non-latino (Goldberg) over a latino (Portillo).

2. Antonio, at the request of the teachers union UTLA, supports a liberal non-latino (Tokofsky) over a qualified latina candidate (Flores-Aguilar) for School Board.

3. Antonio, as Speaker of the Assembly, REMOVES three latino legislators from being committee chairpersons.

4. Antonio, as Speaker of the Assembly, passes the Speakership to a non-latino (Hertzberg) over two latino members (Cardenas & Cedillo).

5. Antonio, as Speaker of the Assembly, and MEMBER of the UC Regents fails to criticize or in any way attack the ban on affirmative action.

6. Antonio, at the request of the unions, attacks our "cousins" - the Native Americans - efforts for self reliance by opposing Proposition 5.

7. Antonio rewards Ron Unz, the author of the anti-bilingual education proposition 227, by placing him on a premiere state committee.

Jesus, the facts are that the liberal Mexicans (as you call them) abandon their race when the Latino isn't liberal. For example, Molina endorses Feuer over Delgadillo and Solis endorses Chu over Arguello and Villaraigosa endorses Tokofsky over Flores-Aguilar.

The reality is that Villaraigosa, Molina, & Solis have taught us that a person's race isn't the important thing, it's their idealogy. Unfortunately, they have also communicated to the media that the only true latino's are liberal latinos or else they do not deserve to serve in public office.

So the big question to you Jesus is: is Antonio really one of OUR own when he chooses liberal non-latinos over qualified Latinos ready to serve our community?

You call me a liar but you don't tell me what I am lying about? Let me tell you, for the record, I HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH THOSE STUPID PHONE CALLS. The District Attorney's report clearly outlines how Xavier Becerra staffers cooked up this whole thing.

As much as I think Antonio's voting record on crime issues is deplorable, I would not secretly accuse him of anything. I tell people directly that I have a problem that he voting against the following:

a. a pilot program to monitor child molesters on parole

b. notifying the community when a violent felon was released into the neighborhood

c. not allowing a judge to consider the safety of the community when deciding bail for a misdemeanant.

d. increasing the penalty against a parent who abuses their child to the point of death

e. keeping a known sexual predator in a mental hospital for two years at a time (unless they are declared safe) after doing their prison sentence

To the 60% of us Latinos, or Mexicans if you prefer, who self identified themselves in a recent NALEO poll as moderate or conservative, these votes are a concern. Antonio (former President of the ACLU - American Civil Liberties Union) rather protect the civil liberties of criminals than the safety of the community. I can't support that.

To reiterate, the District Attorney's report clearly showed that Becerra staffers (outside forces) are the responsible parties in this whole mess.

Nick Pacheco

MY RETIREMENT SAVINGS?

CONTRIBUTED BY: Brandon W. Smith - Morgan Stanley, Glendale 818-502-4052

Almost every working person in America is, in some way, planning for retirement. Most of us are aware that traditional sources of retirement income, such as Social Security or an employer-sponsored pension, probably will not fully fund our retirement as they did for past generations. More and more it is up to us to prepare financially for our retirement years.

As we build our personal retirement assets, we generally estimate our needs based on the cost of our expected or desired retirement lifestyle, the current outlook for inflation, what we can currently afford to save and our estimated life expectancy.

This seems reasonable, but what if one or more of these factors prove to be other than anticipated and the money doesn't last? People are living longer today, and it's especially necessary to plan for the possibility of a longer life span. What if you run out of retirement savings at age 85 and live 10 or 20 more years? Annuitization may help ensuring that retirement savings last long enough is where annuitization comes in.

Annuitization, available through insurance contracts called annuities, guarantees the annuity owner income payments for a pre-defined period of time, typically ranging from as short as five years to as long as the lifetime of the owner and his or her spouse. Additionally, many financial advisers consider this an excellent method of building future income because annuities are tax-advantaged investments—that is, their assets grow on a tax-deferred basis during what is called the initial “accumulation phase.”

How does an investor fund annuitization? First, assets are invested and built up for a number of years in an annuity, during the accumulation phase. As a hypothetical example, a man who is currently 55 years old places assets into an annuity to begin the accumulation phase. When he turns 75, he will decide for how long he wishes to receive payments and “annuitize” his annuity contract. Thus, he will begin his “income phase” of the contract and start receiving a check every month. If he elects a lifetime payout, he will receive checks for the rest of his life, regardless of how long he lives. How assets build during the accumulation phase depends on which annuity you purchase.

There are many types of annuities from which to choose. Some annuities (fixed annuities) guarantee a fixed rate of return, while others (variable annuities) offer professionally managed portfolios that usually invest in the stock market. Most variable annuities provide a range of features and benefits, including provisions for your heirs in the event of your death. (Variable annuities are sold by prospectus only. Read the prospectus carefully before investing.) All offer the advantage of tax deferral on investment earnings which, over the long term, can represent a significant increase in value over investments with earnings subject to annual taxes.

As with other investments, diversifying assets can provide a desirable mix of liquidity, stability, lifetime income and opportunity for growth. It is best to talk with an investment professional to learn what choices might suit your individual circumstances.

In the end, one of the greatest advantages of annuitization is that you do not have to know in advance how long you will require income. Therefore, you can rest a little easier knowing that you'll have at least one source of ongoing income throughout your retirement years.

If you would like to learn more, please call Brandon Smith at Morgan Stanley 818-502-4052

This article does not constitute tax or legal advice. Consult your tax or legal advisors before making any tax- or legally-related investment decisions. This article is published for general informational purposes and is not an offer or solicitation to sell or buy any securities or commodities. Any particular investment should be analyzed based on its terms and risks as they relate to a specific investor's circumstances and objectives.