lc 12 2020

Larchmont Chronicle H

VOL. 58, NO. 12 • DELIVERED TO 76,439 READERS IN HANCOCK PARK • WINDSOR SQUARE • FREMONT PLACE • MIRACLE MILE • PARK LA BREA • LARCHMONT •

IN THIS ISSUE

THE HOLIDAY issue.

RUNNERS are eager to run.

26

Nithya Raman wins City Council seat for CD4

Holidays arrive on Larchmont

By Suzan Filipek It’s beginning to look a lot like the holidays. Parkway trees have been decorated with red, bodacious ribbons, and Christmas trees were en route to the boulevard as we went to press.

The annual Small Business Saturday officially kicked off the holiday shopping season. Students from Rhodes School of Music performed, and Paramount Pictures donated three, seven-foot tall decorated Christmas trees.

See Boulevard, p 19

DECEMBER 2020

n Ridley-Thomas wins in CD10; Mitchell is new Supervisor

BIRD’S-EYE VIEW shows the reconfigured 410 N. Rossmore Ave. building in relation to its neighbors, the El Royale to the north and Country Club Manor to the south.

By Billy Taylor Taking nearly 53 percent of the vote, political newcomer Nithya Raman last month won a runoff election for the Fourth Council District seat against David Ryu, who became the first City Council incumbent in 17 years to be ousted by a challenger.

Renderings released for historic Rossmore project n Design restores ‘30s building, adds new housing

1960s ICON Contemporary Casuals.

2-9 SANTA arrives at Small Business Saturday in 2019.

Christmas trees on the Boulevard DIVINELY sweet, ancient, cinnamon. 2-15 For Information on Advertising Rates, Please Call Pam Rudy 323-462-2241, x 11 Mailing permit:

Christmas tree deliveries were set to begin the day after Thanksgiving at the traditional holiday tree location, 568 N. Larchmont Blvd. In addition to Douglas firs and nobles, a limited supply of silvertips will be available, Wendy Clifford, of the Wilshire Rotary Club, told us. The freshly cut trees are top of the line, and funds raised at the lot support local schools and other Wilshire Rotary efforts.

Health, Fitness & Beauty

Feel and look your best in 2021! Read the annual Health, Fitness & Beauty section in the January issue of the Larchmont Chronicle. Advertising deadline is Thurs., Dec. 10. For more information contact Pam Rudy, 323-462-2241, ext. 11.

By Billy Taylor The final design and first architectural renderings have been released for the “reconfiguration” of an historic Hancock Park apartment building located on Rossmore Avenue opposite the Wilshire Country Club.

The building, 410 N. Rossmore Ave., will get a new lease on life by way of an extensive restoration project that will see seismic safety upgrades, the addition of at least four floors and new amenities.

Atlanta-based residential developer Domos, which purchased the property last January, worked closely with Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects (LOHA) to finalize design and development concepts for the reconfiguration of the prop-

erty. Of the design, O’Herlihy said: “Cities grow incrementally. Our 410 Rossmore project represents a new paradigm and contribution for helping See Rossmore, p 27

Larchmont Blvd. grapples with multiple matters n Al Fresco curbed As the end to 2020 approaches, merchants on Larchmont Boulevard continue to defend against challenges.

Village Pizzeria Steve Cohen, proprietor of Village Pizzeria for 24 years, told the Chronicle that the See Larchmont, p 18

COUNCILMEMBER-ELECT Nithya Raman with her twins.

“I congratulate my opponent on her victory,” Ryu said in a statement following his Nov. 6 concession. “I wish her success in continuing our shared goal of reform in local government and in serving our City.”

In the other two most-local races, former County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas beat attorney Grace Yoo in the contest to replace Herb Wesson in Council District 10, and state senator Holly Mitchell beat Wesson in the race to replace Ridley-Thomas on the Board of Supervisors.

See Nithya Raman, p 8

First-In Fire partners with Larchmont merchants

By John Welborne The First-In Fire Foundation has expanded into Larchmont Village for the holidays. The foundation has new partners for its “Firehouse Dinner” program that helps small businesses and local firefighters.

Louise’s Trattoria in Larchmont Village has partnered with the foundation to prepare delicious Italian meals for our local fire station. Julio Figueroa, general manager of Louise’s on Larchmont, said he and his team are excited to be part of the program: “We are 100 percent dependent on the community to keep our doors open. We are happy to remain in service to our Larchmont community.”

In another area of expansion for the foundation — focused on firefighters’ time after See First-In Fire, p 16

AT CHEVALIER’S BOOKS, manager Theresa Le Phung holds the first books going into the “Firehouse Library,” a new program from the First-In Fire Foundation, just in time for Christmas and Hanukkah.

www.larchmontchronicle.com ~ Entire Issue Online!

2

SECTION ONE

Editorial

By John Welborne

Glad Tidings!

Evidence is all around that people are hardy. They are coping during this pandemic. They remain helpful and generous to others including to local merchants and their local community newspaper of 58 years!

All of us at the Larchmont Chronicle join me in thanking our supportive readers who not only have sent to the newspaper your checks in the reply envelopes included in the November issue, but also have written personal notes of encouragement. That says and means a lot — not only to us — but also to the community around us.

Similar support to local restaurants and merchants is evidence of what makes this community so desirable, not just today, but for more than 100 years. Your encouragement to us, and your concern for, and commitment to, our neighborhoods — and the city that surrounds us — is a hallmark of Larchmont.

“Happy Holidays” to all of you (as we all make do until the virus is down and done)!

Everything We’re Thankful For During this difficult time with so much uncertainty, it’s often hard to see the many things we can be thankful for.

First, we’re thankful for living in this wonderful country, state and city, and particularly grateful to live in the middle of a major city in a beautiful neighborhood. The Association is thankful to our residents who are the backbone of our neighborhood: planting trees, serving on committees, being block captains, participating in the neighborhood watch.

Thank you everyone! We look forward to making things even better in the New Year!

The Association has always worked together with the City and Council Office to help provide the best services available to our members. We want to take this opportunity, in particular, to thank outgoing City Councilperson David Ryu, who has been our City Councilperson for the last five years. We thank David and his excellent staff, including Emma Howard, Adeena Bleich, Renée Weitzer and Rob Fisher. In particular Rob, as our Field Deputy, worked tirelessly to help our residents get assistance and answers and to navigate the sometimes confusing city bureaucracy.

We wish all of them the best in their lives and their careers, and we know they’ll continue to contribute to whatever community they’re part of.

The election results are in, and we welcome our new Councilperson for Council District 4, Nithya Raman. The Association anticipates working closely with her and her staff to keep Hancock Park a great place to live as well as an important contributor to the larger health and happiness of the City of Los Angeles.

And, don’t forget that the annual Association parkway tree planting is about to begin. Fall is the best time to plant, so, if you need a tree, let us know via the website.

If you’re planning to make any changes to the streetvisible portion of your house, including hardscaping and windows, check with our HPOZ Planner Suki Gershenhorn (suki.gershenhorn@lacity.org) before starting. The HPOZ Preservation Plan, which regulates our HPOZ, can be found at preservation.lacity.org/hpoz/la/hancock-park. There is also an online form you can fill out to help speed up the process — the Initial Screening Checklist (preservation.lacity.org/ hpoz/initial.screening.checklist). Report graffiti sightings by calling 311 or at the City’s Anti-Graffiti Request System: laocb.org/programs/graffiti-abatement and by calling Hollywood Beautification, 323-463-5180.

Adv.

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

Calendar Wed., Dec. 9 – Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council board meeting via Zoom, 7 to 9 p.m. Check greaterwilshire.org to confirm and for login.

Thurs., Dec. 10 – Hanukkah begins.

Wed., Dec. 16 – Jane Gilman presents “Inside Hancock Park” for the Windsor SquareHancock Park Historical Society. Zoom event, 7 p.m. windsorsquarehancockpark.com Fri., Dec. 25 – Christmas Day. Thurs., Dec. 31 – New Year’s Eve and delivery of the Larchmont Chronicle.

Fri., Jan. 1 – New Year’s Day. Rose Parade canceled.

That’s the question inquiring photographer Talia Abrahamson asked locals along Larchmont Blvd.

“A pug.”

Letters to the Editor Ryu’s tenure a boon

Thank you, Mr. Curran [“David Ryu’s tenure has been a boon for preservation in CD4,” Nov. 2020].

I, too, support Councilmember Ryu. For the past five years I have worked as a tenant activist and a historic preservationist in Los Angeles. During that time I have worked directly with the Councilmember and his office, as one of the founders of Friends of Lytton Savings, and was involved with saving Tom Bergin’s.

I was also involved with the Miracle Mile HPOZ; Ryu’s actions not only saved a great neighborhood’s architecture, but also protected over 450 rent control apartments. Ryu stood up to the pressure of developers and other Councilmembers. He has refused to politicize the Historic-Cultural Monument process, treating the Cultural Heritage Commissioners as the experts in their field.

Larchmont Chronicle Founded in 1963 by Jane Gilman and Dawne P. Goodwin .

.

Publisher and Editor John H. Welborne Managing Editor Suzan Filipek Associate Editor Billy Taylor Contributing Editor Jane Gilman Staff Writers Talia Abrahamson Helene Seifer Advertising Director Pam Rudy Advertising Sales Caroline Tracy Art Director Tom Hofer Classified and Circulation Manager Rachel Olivier Accounting Jill Miyamoto 606 N. Larchmont Blvd., #103

Los Angeles, CA 90004 323-462-2241 larchmontchronicle.com

‘What is at the top of your wish list this year?’

David Ryu has been a true ally for tenants and historic preservation.

Steven Luftman South Carthay

Leo Putnam “Play Station 5.”

Lucas Putnam “A new house.”

Cara Putnam, Hancock Park

Harold A. Henry Park

After seeing a letter in the new Larchmont Chronicle, I looked up last month’s article [“Harold A. Henry Park in Windsor Village: Wood family property now a public park,” Oct. 2020] which I had overlooked.

Thanks for that article and thanks to Jane Gilman.

I used to go there with toddlers, and with the toddlers now in college, I’m still there every week with our dog. The old growth trees are really wonderful. There are always a few people around, but it’s never overcrowded. I hope more people have learned about the park and its interesting history through your article.

Bruce Quinn La Brea Hancock Park [See story on p. 10, Sect. 2) Write us at letters@larchmontchronicle.com. Include your name, contact information and where you live. We reserve the right to edit for space and grammar.

Neighborhood Council election registration open

“A peaceful transition of presidential power.”

Christine Montes “For my dog, I want a new sweater for her.”

Imogen Montes with dog June Oakwood/Maplewood/ St. Andrews

“True love.”

“Loyalty.”

Elliott McGilbra

Marisa Villasenor with Donnie McGilbra (2) East Hollywood

The Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council (GWNC) candidate filing began on Nov. 13 and ends Dec. 28. Register through the Office of the City Clerk website’s portal: clerk.lacity.org/candidate-filing

A GWNC meeting about the elections is on Zoom on Thurs.

Dec. 3 from 6:30-7:30pm. See: greaterwilshire.org.

Certified candidates will be announced Jan. 1, 2021. The election is March 16, 2021.

For more information, you may contact Brian Curran, chair of the GWNC Elections Committee, at: atlargealt@greaterwilshire.org

“I don’t know.”

Albert Smith “I think: a toy. A whale stuffie.”

Sofia Smith “A gold necklace for me.”

Ana Smith, Park La Brea

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

3

Resilience, staying connected in 2020

By Suzan Filipek It’s been quite a year, what with a once-in-a-century pandemic and a presidential election like no other in recent memory, or maybe ever.

There were shining moments too, some surprises and glimmers of hope.

When the lockdown came, religious leaders probably said a quick prayer before moving their services outdoors and online.

Programs online Wilshire Boulevard Temple (WBT) boosted its programming and increased its audience across the nation.

“We are filled with programming and we have been since March,” said Rabbi Susan Nanus.

This month, among offerings are: “Eight Crazy Quarantine Nights” celebrating Hanukkah beginning Dec. 10, and “The Rabbi and The Preacher,” featuring WBT Rabbi Steve Leder and Bishop Kenneth Ulmer of Faithful Central Bible Church.

This program will discuss religious freedom Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. Leder and Ulmer have been seen recently on NBC’s

SECTION ONE

PUPPET update.

COUNCIL REPORT AROUND THE TOWN HOLIDAYS ON THE MENU SCHOOL NEWS YOUTH SPORTS

6 4 6 10 17 22 26

SECTION TWO VIEW:

Real Estate Libraries Home & Garden

UPDATE: 361 N. Citrus. 4 ON PRESERVATION 2 REAL ESTATE SALES 8 HOME GROUND 15 LIBRARIES 16 AT THE MOVIES 16 THEATER REVIEW 17 POKER FOR ALL 18 PROFESSOR 19 BEEZWAX 19 CLASSIFIED ADS 19

the “Today Show.”

For a full schedule of classes, films and services, visit wbt@home.org.

In addition to its online activity, a bevy of clergy and volunteers at the temple fanned out across a congregation of some 2,400 families offering words of comfort.

“We’re trying very much to stay connected,” said Nanus, who is based at the Temple’s Glazer Campus, 3663 Wilshire Blvd.

She estimates that she’s called about 300 congregants, including a 90-year-old Holocaust survivor and active volunteer before the pandemic.

“I think all clergy do the same, whether it’s a church, a mosque or a synagogue,” Nanus told us.

“I feel people are very appreciative… They feel cared about,” said Nanus.

Services outdoors Rev. Brian Castañeda at

Saint Brendan Church, 300 S. Van Ness Ave., hopes to add a third Sunday mass to the schedule. He has been holding two Sunday services — at 8 a.m. and 9:45 a.m.

— in the church parking lot since September.

Attendance “has been growing in number, so people are feeling more comfortable and feeling safe,” he told us.

Chairs are placed socially distant and hand sanitizer is available.

The 9:45 a.m. mass is livestreamed, and the church has a Facebook page, added Castañeda, who said he brushed up on his social media skills to meet the need.

Canopies provide shade, and parishioners wear hats and sunglasses, or scarves and gloves depending on the weather. And, they wear masks, of course.

While the pandemic has provided challenges, to be sure, “I

SERVICES are held outdoors at St. Brendan Church.

always say God provides,” said Castañeda.

Services are also streamed online at St. James’s-in-theCity Episcopal Church, and at Christ the King where outdoor masses are offered in English and in Spanish, and confessions are heard in the parking lot.

Hope Lutheran Church will conduct Christmas services online this year as well, and advent themed services take place every Sunday leading up to Christmas Eve. Visit hope-

lutheranchurch.net, or its Facebook page for more information.

“While we are anxious to be together again and welcome back friends new and old, we feel it’s more important to make everyone’s health and safety a priority,” said Jeff Burtt, church office manager.

Visit local temple, church and other worship sites online pages for full and up-to-date schedules.

(Please turn to page 18)

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

It’s been an honor to serve; see you on the Boulevard Of all the columns I have sent to this paper over the years, this one is by far the most difficult to write — because this one will be my last as your Councilmember.

It has been an honor to work with the neighborhoods of Windsor Square, Hancock Park, and Greater Wilshire, as well as all the small businesses along Larchmont Boulevard, and when I look back at the last five years, I’m proud of all that we’ve accomplished together.

Five years ago, our city government had no repair

plan for our city’s concrete streets, and aside from an asphalt patch here and there, was going to let them continue to disintegrate. Communities like this one had been told for years that concrete street repair was too expensive, and neighborhoods which had them were left in the lurch.

But we didn’t accept this answer, and we found a better way. I commissioned my own crews to prove that completely repairing concrete streets was not only cost effective, but saved the city money in the long term from patch work

Support Larchmont Boulevard this holiday season.

• Books • Candles • Children’s Clothes • Dining • Flowers • Jewelry • Menswear • Women’s Clothing • Pet Accessories • Wine … just to name a few gift ideas!

LARCHMONT BOULEVARD ASSOCIATION

www.LARCHMONT.com

©LC1220

“an oasis in the city”

Council Report by

David E. Ryu

repairs and possible lawsuits.

Today, concrete streets are being repaired and replaced across Los Angeles under a new concrete streets repair plan that has dedicated crews and funding streams to get the job done.

Five years ago, the consensus logic said that campaign finance reform had no chance at success in City Hall.

I went ahead and fought for it anyway — re-introducing my developer dollar ban three times before gaining traction, and then pushing with every tool I had to pass it into law.

I refused developer donations since my first day on the campaign trail to prove it could be done, and to lay the groundwork for a new kind of politics in Los Angeles. I became the only Councilmember, currently or in history, to make public any meetings with developers and all discretionary spending. I organized with advocacy groups, spoke publicly about the need for reform, and gathered support from neighborhood groups and everyday Angelenos.

The campaign finance bill that we were told was a pipe dream is now law, and only

the beginning of what I hope will be a wave of reform, oversight and transparency measures in City Hall.

There is so much more to reflect on — new tree care policies, homeless housing centers, and support for our local businesses — but nostalgia is not what drove me to write this piece. In fact, just the opposite.

Five years ago, not a lot of people believed I could deliver on the things I campaigned on. I was a fresh face, and people were skeptical on whether I really would fix our concrete streets, build homeless housing, or tackle corruption. But this community — the readers of this newspaper — gave me a chance to work with them and prove what we are capable of when we work together. I ask you to give Nithya Raman that same chance.

You believing in me, and working with me in good faith, is what made so many of our neighborhood achievements possible. Councilwoman-elect Raman will need that same good faith. She is a fresh face, much like I was in 2015, and someone who has put forth a lot of big ideas for our district and our city. They are ambitious, but they are possible when we work together.

That is what we need right

now — not just for our new Councilmember to be successful, but for all of our communities to thrive.

Homelessness is continuing to rise. The COVID-19 pandemic rages on. The local economy remains on dwindling life support. Now is not the time to slow down or to let ego or distrust stymie a political newcomer. Now is the time to put our best foot forward, to extend an open hand (or elbow bump), and get to work.

It has been a tremendous honor to work with you all on building a better community and a healthier city. The work continues, and I wish all of you, and our new Councilmember, the best of luck.

See you on the Boulevard.

Larchmont’s 100th next year!

September 2021 will mark the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Larchmont Village shopping district, and celebration is to be expected!

For its part, the Larchmont Chronicle will publish a special “Souvenir Collector’s Edition,” as we did for the 50th anniversary in 1971. We shall have more information for the community next month. The special edition will be published in October 2021.

POLICE BEAT WILSHIRE DIVISION

OLYMPIC DIVISION

Furnished by Senior Lead Officer Dave Cordova

Furnished by Senior Lead Officer Joseph Pelayo

213-793-0650 31646@lapd.lacity.org Twitter: @lapdwilshire

213-793-0709 31762@lapd.lacity.org Twitter: @lapdolympic

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

5

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

Santa on way through sleet, snow, pandemic

HELP IS NEEDED to keep them going.

Puppet theater brings hope, and hopes for your help, too

By John Welborne The Bob Baker Marionette Theater (BBMT), an iconic part of Southern California culture, has been pulling the strings of family fun since 1963. However, the puppet theater now faces the risk of closure because of health

PUPPET SHOWS dazzle.

requirements due to the coronavirus pandemic.

(Please turn to page 16)

By Suzan Filipek Winter is upon us, and the pandemic continues to cast a shadow on the holidays. But there is plenty of reason to be of good cheer. Resilient and resourceful Angelenos are finding many ways to assist the less fortunate.

••• Imagine LA promises its most magical event yet, Winter Wonderland, the DriveThru Edition on Sat., Dec. 5 from 10 a.m. to noon.

Santa and Mrs. Claus and their reindeer will greet drivers and passengers as they drive by, bearing gifts to bring joy and warmth to families for the holidays.

Wish list items include 200 packaged hot meals, 75 space heaters, 75 air purifiers and essential stocking stuffer items.

To donate, visit imaginela.org/

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The 70-minute program of live performances and interactive entertainment is different each time that it is performed and recorded. Participants are given a recording of the event at the end of the experience.

General admission tickets are $40; the $300 VIP package (purchased 10 days in advance and local addresses only) includes a gift box of items that will be sent in advance of the performance to help enhance the experience (and $225 is a tax-deductible donation for RiverLA).

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••• The Junior League of Los Angeles holds its annual Harvest Boutique Sip & Shop online Sun., Dec. 6 at 11 a.m.

(Please turn to page 12)

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Patty Hill

6

DAILY BREAKFAST · FREE WI-FI

Around the Town is on a break Larchmont Chronicle columnist Patty Hill is temporarily not out and about, and her Around the Town column is on hiatus.

-Editor

BOOK NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2020 ASK YOUR AAA TRAVEL AGENT ABOUT CURRENT OFFERS AND OTHER DESTINATIONS

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skin

deep

by Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald

Ah, Zoom. Perhaps the unofficial word of 2020. Who knew we’d be uttering this simultaneously silly and serious word multiple times a day?

While we’re grateful to video conferencing for keeping us safe, home, and connected, it’s also shining a spotlight on creases, folds and lines we didn’t know we had.

We are accustomed to looking at static photos of ourselves, so Zoom and company offer a unique perspective on our aging faces simply because of their video format. Now we’re regularly viewing the quality, texture and laxity of our skin as we speak and respond on camera. As humans, of course we think others are zeroing in on our flaws as well, (psst…they’re not, they’re looking at their own!)

While Botox and fillers are always in season, now is the time for lasers and skin-tightening devices. What your critical eye perceives as age is actually shadows from volume loss coupled with loose skin. Increasing collagen and tightening your skin will minimize shadows and reflect more light (the little known hallmark of a youthful appearance). Visit our website, rebeccafitzgeraldmd.com, where we have carefully selected the ideal combination of devices and skincare to tighten and build collagen, ranging from the least amount of downtime to the most.

And take advantage of thoughtful mask-wearing culture to conceal your recovery time.

Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald is a Board Certified Dermatologist located in Larchmont Village with a special focus on anti-aging technology. She is a member of the Botox Cosmetic National Education Faculty and is an international Training Physician for Dermik, the makers of the injectable Sculptra. She is also among a select group of physicians chosen to teach proper injection techniques for Radiesse, the volumizing filler, around the world. Dr. Fitzgerald is an assistant clinical professor at UCLA. Visit online at www.RebeccaFitzgeraldMD. com or call (323) 464-8046 to schedule an appointment.

Adv.

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

7

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

Nithya Raman (Continued from page 1) The Chronicle spoke with victor Raman about her campaign success as well as her first steps as councilmember-elect.

“You know, we started this campaign knowing that we were running against the odds.

We were running against an incumbent, and one of the most well funded candidates in City Council history. The campaign was premised on this idea that we would talk to voters that were not always interested in municipal government and to convince them that it was worth their time to get involved. We were able to engage voters that hadn’t otherwise been engaged,” Raman said by phone.

According to Raman, who will be the first woman to represent CD4, her campaign was built on the work of organizers and movement leaders — she was endorsed by Bernie Sanders and the Democratic

Socialists of America, and she received significant campaign support from progressive nonprofit Ground Game LA — as well as from people “who are just realizing their power to shape local government.”

Raman, who holds a graduate degree in city planning from MIT, most recently served as the executive director of Time’s Up Entertainment. In 2017 she cofounded the SELAH Neighborhood Homeless Coalition, which connects people experiencing homelessness in the Echo Parkto-Atwater neighborhoods to housing while also providing an accessible entry point for residents who want to get involved.

Regarding her predecessor Ryu, Raman says that she is very grateful for his response to the election results: “One of the first things he said to me was that he wanted to make sure and provide our team with the support needed to get started on day one. I’m very, very grateful for him to prioritize that.”

Raman and CD10 Council-

man-elect Mark Ridley-Thomas are scheduled to be sworn in on Mon., Dec. 14.

In late November, Raman announced that her co-campaign managers, founding members of Ground Game LA Jessica Salans and Meghan Choi, will share a role resembling CD4 chief-of-staff.

Raman also is having conversations about staffing with Councilmembers, community leaders and political advisors, such as Miguel Santana, the former City Administrative Officer.

As we talked, Raman admitted that she had taken a walk earlier that day, which was the first time she’d had a chance to do any self-care in months: “I

feel like I can finally breathe,” she says with a laugh. When asked what her five-year-old twins thought of it all, Raman says that they were the least surprised. “Like most kids that age, their family is the center of their universe, so they expected nothing else. They took it in stride and wanted me to read them a book,” she says.

Energized by her win, and excited to hit the ground running, Raman is clear-eyed about the challenges facing Los Angeles — not least of all a raging pandemic at the onset of winter.

Raman explains that she is “absolutely focused” on her major campaign issues of affordable housing and homelessness.

She is working now on how to put her policy ideas, “like protecting renters, preventing homelessness and improving the ways that we address these issues,” into reality. But now, “COVID has made these issues all the more important.

“The focus continues but the context is a little different,” she says.

“I think we are likely going to be in for a tough period for the city, county and country.

But I’m looking at this crisis through the lens of having a vaccine widely available in the next few months, and a new administration in D.C. These are things that are giving me hope,” says Raman.

325 N. Larchmont Boulevard, #158 Los Angeles, California 90004 www.windsorsquare.org

Annual “Town Hall” Was Virtual

There was high attendance at our Windsor Square Association’s annual Town Hall meeting last month — held virtually, of course! Seventy-eight neighbors joined us, even though there were no free cookies this year.

Our newly-elected Councilmember for District 4, Nithya Raman, introduced herself to the community at the meeting.

She discussed her commitment to addressing homelessness and poverty, areas in which she has experience as an urban planner. Other concerns on her very full plate, she said, will be responding to the COVID-19 health crisis and mitigating the effects of climate change. At the time of the November 12th meeting, she was just assembling her staff, but she stated that she was eager to be of service to our neighborhood and promised to be as responsive as possible to Windsor Square’s concerns. As one neighbor put it to her, “Good luck. Your success will be our success.”

Captain Shannon Paulson, commanding officer of the LAPD’s Wilshire Division, spoke to the group as well. Captain Paulson reported that statistics indicate that serious crime in this area is down by around 20 percent. Among other things, the division has successfully broken up several auto theft rings this year. Captain Paulson spoke frankly about the sometimesviolent demonstrations this summer, and she reiterated that the Police Department is committed to defending our First Amendment rights to assemble and protest. Most marches and protests are peaceful, she stated, but when difficult situations arise and the police fall short in their response, they are working hard to learn from the experience and improve.

Captain Paulson welcomes members of the community to contact her and her staff when needed.

The WSA Squeaky Wheel Award, presented annually to Windsor Square residents “whose persistence in addressing an issue of community concern protects or improves the quality of life in Windsor Square,” was awarded to Scott Goldstein, for his tireless work in improving and expanding our beautiful tree canopy. Among many other accomplishments, Scott spearheaded the creation of the leafy Larchmont median strip and oversaw the planting of 1,000 parkway trees in the neighborhood. Thank you, Scott.

We hope to see our neighbors in person at next year’s annual meeting!

Neville Anderson, MD, FAAP Amaka Priest, MD Courtney Mannino, MD, FAAP Board-Certified Pediatricians • We care for children 0-21 years old • Most PPO Insurance plans accepted

The holidays are almost here! Don’t forget to shop locally whenever you can. Support our local merchants and help keep our neighborhood the wonderful community it is!

The Windsor Square Association, an all-volunteer group of residents from 1100 households between Beverly and Wilshire and Van Ness and Arden, works to preserve and enhance our beautiful neighborhood. Join with us! Drop us a line at 325 N. Larchmont Blvd., #158, Los Angeles, CA 90004, or visit our website at windsorsquare.org.

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• Complimentary “meet the doctor” appointments available

Call Today! 323.960.8500 ©LC1120

8

321 N Larchmont Blvd., Suite 1020 . Los Angeles . CA . 90004 . www.larchmontpediatric.com

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

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Larchmont Chronicle

HOLIDAYS — DECEMBER 2020

SEASON‘S GREETINGS!

Join us Dec. 19, 12-4pm, at our Christmas Tree Lot for the “Battle of the Bells“

JOIN US!

Help us support Red Shield with "Give a Gift for Santa" brought to the tree lot as an unwrapped family-friendly gift

Wilshirerotary.org

©LC1220

LA Host Lions Club vs. Wilshire Rotary to see who can collect the most for the Red Shield Community Center!

Local writer pens holiday book on the tooth fairy

By Caroline Tracy Wendy Holley has worn many hats in her life. An attorney, writer, artist and mother to two small children, she is never without something to focus on. So why not add a (children’s) book project to the list?

With the pandemic raging on (eight months, but who’s counting?), that is exactly what she did.

“During the early months of stay-at-home, I definitely needed something to distract me from the crazy, and this story had been a part of my life for so long and needed a dusting off,” Holley explains. “My 7-year-old daughter Eva and I are both really into art, and (Please turn to page 26)

THE GROVE will be decorated for the holidays.

Snow and Santa at The Grove nightly Get into the holiday spirit with a visit to The Grove, 189 The Grove Dr., which is dressed up in its holiday finest. See snowfall and Santa Claus twice nightly at 7 and 8 p.m. through Fri., Dec. 25.

Santa will make his special appearance from aboard the Grove’s trolley.

On weekends, visitors also can enjoy strolling holiday entertainment throughout the day.

Visit thegrovela.com.

Farmers Market is dressed up for the holidays; trees for sale

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Despite the pandemic, the Original Farmers Market, 6333 W. Third St., is dressed up for the holidays with a large decorated tree and a giant menorah. While there will be no official lighting ceremonies this year because of the virus, the market will

JOHN

be a festive place for holiday shopping.

In addition, Mr. Jingles will be selling fresh Christmas trees Sundays to Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., at the market.

Visit farmersmarketla.com.

SUZAN

PAM

RACHEL

BILLY

CAROLINE

TALIA HELENE

TOM

THE

JANE

JILL

Larchmont Chronicle STAFF

BARBER SHOP 142 ½ N. LARCHMONT BLVD., 90004 For appointments until 4 p.m. through Dec. 25, call

Leipzig, Germany since 1853

Concert, Recording, Home Rentals Henle Editions

(323) 464-6659

Happy Holidays from Jorge Hilario and team!

Helga Kasimoff

LA’s oldest family piano store

kasimoffpianoslosangeles.com ©LC1220

Thank you for all the years on Larchmont.

Come see us in the New Year at 401 ½ S. FAIRFAX AVE., 90036.

Same telephone number!

WE ARE OPEN!

¨

10

KASIMOFF-BLUTHNER PIANO CO. 337 N. LARCHMONT BL. • HOLLYWOOD, CA 90004

323-466-7707

Larchmont Chronicle

HOLIDAYS — DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

Christmas Tree Lot

!

on Larchmont!

Open Daily & Weekends Please bring diapers, wipes & gently-used baby items to the lot for Camp Pendleton military families.

Thru December 23 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

!

Fresh-cut Douglas & Noble trees Wreaths & Garland Fresh-Cut Trees Arrive Weekly on Our Lot

Delivery Available • 323-464-1935 568 N. Larchmont Blvd.(Between Beverly & Melrose)

©LC1220

Net proceeds from the Christmas Tree Lot go to the Rotary International Foundation and the Wilshire Rotary Foundation to benefit Rotary Service Projects in our community and around the world.

For more information visit www.rotary.org or www.wilshirerotary.org.

11

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Larchmont Chronicle

HOLIDAYS — DECEMBER 2020

Events (Continued from page 6) A Sip & Shop ticket, which includes a cocktail demonstration, silent auction and the curated boutique, is $35.

The JLLA, a women’s organization that promotes volunteerism and is based on Larchmont Blvd., serves area

children with education and other programs. For more information visit jlla.org.

••• Celebrate 10 years of helping children with Small Wonders Foundation on Sun., Dec. 6 at 11 a.m. Watch Micah the amazing magician and meet Dr. John Reinisch, Hancock Park, and the Small Wonders

Board on the Zoom event.

Register for the zoom link at smallwondersfoundation.org.

••• Cookies & Cocktails adds a delicious family event to the holidays with St. Vincent Meals on Wheels.

Carolers will greet participating families with song, and Santa’s helpers will hand out

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cookie decorating kits on Tues., Dec. 9 from 2 to 4 p.m. when participants drive through Santa’s Los Angeles Workshop, 2303 Miramar St. Revelers can join the cookie decorating party on Wed., Dec. 10 at 6 p.m. Zoom links will be provided.

The kits come with cookies, decorations and a cocktail recipe.

Visit stvincentmow. org.

••• A magician San- HOLLYGROVE board member Sheri ta, children’s talent Weller, Hancock Park, on the phone for show and story shar- its Give-a-Thon. ing will be featured at a Magical Holiday A recent telephone Give-aParty with the Korean Ameri- Thon by Uplift Family Serviccan Family Services (KFAM) es, Hollygrove raised $176,000 via Zoom on Sat., Dec. 12.

— three times the expected Many children in KFAM’s amount.

Asian Foster Family InitiaWhile the event didn’t quite tive (KFAM-AFFI) will receive reach the goal of the annual gifts with families for the first in-person Norma Jean Gala, time. Wish list items include the Give-a-thon did provide school supplies, athletic gear, much welcome support for bicycles and instruments. To the program’s at-risk families make a donation or for more that the agency serves, said information, visit kfamla.org, spokesperson Rachel Lepold. or tinyurl.com/AFFIwishlist.

••• To ensure delivery before Alexandria House, a tranthe event, please donate by sitional home for women and Dec. 7. their children, also has cause ••• for celebration.

Big Sunday’s Holiday Par“With the recent fire in our ty is Sun., Dec. 13, 4 to 5 p.m. green house, the Covid-19 via Zoom. Performances, en- pandemic, and with many tertainers and interactive ac- more people seeking assistivities are planned. tance, there are plenty of reaBig Sunday’s annual Holi- sons to despair. And yet, we day List, with over 300 ways to celebrate,” said Pamela Hope, help, is live and online at big- director of grant and events. sunday.org. Also, Big Sunday “We witness the transforreleased a new Resource Guide mation of families from crisis online Dec. 1. It includes ways to stability. Every day, in so to get involved in fighting for many ways, we see reasons to racial justice, as well as help- count our blessings.” ing others whose voices aren’t Alexandria House also revalways heard — seniors, vet- eled in a night of bingo Nov. 7, erans, people with disabilities which honored Nancy Berlin, and others. the National Giving Alliance ••• (NGA) — Hancock Park, and A toy and grocery drive, Micki Kirkland.

Santa’s Workshop, contin“We had a great event — ues this month on the Uplift who knew bingo would be Family Services, Hollygrove so popular? We had over 150 Campus. Donations may be guests online joining our fesdropped off 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. tivities,” said Michele Richat 5930 Gregory Ave., near the ards, development director of corner of El Centro, by Dec. Alexandria House.

11. Other opportunities are ••• available to help bring a happy Those are just some of the holiday season to children and many examples of local benefamilies. Email jasmine.ca- factors confronting COVID-19 dena@upliftfs.org or call 323- by making lemons into lem769-7163. onade.

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323-697-0048

Larchmont Chronicle

HOLIDAYS — DECEMBER 2020

Events postponed until ‘sometime next year’

By Rachel Olivier As the year draws to an end, coronavirus restrictions remain in place, but people have proven resilient and creative. Many of the holiday functions, balls, benefits and galas that people enjoy attending have been postponed or canceled, while others have been changed to virtual or some other type of remote attendance. But the general theme seems to be “the show will go on (sometime!).”

Some organizations’ events, such as Uplift Family Services’ Give-a-Thon and Project Angel Food’s “Lead with Love” telethon, combined old-school telethon-type events with an online experience. Meanwhile, RiverLA, the Los Angeles Opera and the National Charity League are creating unique and immersive online experiences.

This is how we adapt in 2020.

However, other events, such as the Ladies’ Professional Golf

Association’s Hugel-Air Premia Open, which normally takes place at the Wilshire Country Club in April, have been postponed until “sometime in 2021.” While the Los Angeles Auto Show has set a definite date for the last 10 days in May in 2021, other event sponsors, such as the National Charity League for its Coronet Debutante Ball and Las Madrinas for its debutante ball, both of which traditionally happen during the holidays, are hoping that by next holiday season they can celebrate more fully.

This is also the case with events such as Los Angeles Zoo’s “Zoo Lights” and Descanso Garden’s “Enchanted Forest of Light,” both of which are normally booked and busy from mid-November until the beginning of January. Again, “wait until next year.”

Closer to home, both the Larchmont Boulevard Associa-

CHRIST THE KING CATHOLIC CHURCH

Christmas and New Year

CELEBRATIONS MASS SCHEDULE Simbang Gabi Friday, December 18, 7:00 PM Saturday, December 19, 7:00 PM

Christmas Eve

Thursday, December 24 4:00 PM Family Mass (English) 6:00 PM Las Posadas Mass (Spanish)

Christmas Day

Friday, December 25 8:30 AM, 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM (Spanish)

tion’s Larchmont Family Fair and HopeNet’s Taste of Larchmont had to be canceled in the late summer because of the pandemic, but representatives are hopeful that by 2021, with the addition of a vaccine, those events will be back.

Fingers crossed.

BALLET FOLKLÓRICO among groups performing.

SECTION ONE

‘Kiss 2020 Goodbye’ theme for The Ebell virtual celebration

By Helene Seifer The Ebell of Los Angeles’ holiday luncheon and boutique, one of the club’s most popular events and successful fundraisers, has had to shift into virtual party mode this year.

Titled “Kiss 2020 Goodbye,” a sentiment we can all support, the boutique will showcase hand-crafted gifts from local and national artisans, including jewelry, home products, clothing and handbags. Shopping began online November 18 and continues

HANDMADE HATS by Formé Millinery are featured at the virtual Ebell Holiday Boutique.

through December 21. Handicrafts from more than 40 ven(Please turn to page 20)

is

Celebrate at home with The Music Center

The Los Angeles County 61st annual Holiday Celebration will air on PBS SoCal 1 on Thurs., Dec. 24 from 3 to 6 p.m., and again from 7 to 10 p.m.

The event will include instrumental and choral music and dance performances by 21 groups representing the many cultures throughout Los Angeles County. Because of COVID-19 restrictions, there will be no live performance at Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. The performances will have been recorded in advance at a variety of Los Angeles locations.

For more information, visit tinyurl.com/y2bsedaa or go to musiccenter.org.

Solemnity of Mary, Holy Mother of God

Friday, January 1, 2021 — 10:30 AM & 12:30 PM (Spanish)

624 North Rossmore Avenue

HAPPY

ctkla.org • 323-465-7605

* Schedule subject to change based on health guidelines.

HOLIDAYS

December 2020

CHRISTMAS AT ST. BRENDAN

FROM LAUSD BOARD MEMBER

* Christmas EvE mass Thursday, December 24 4 p.m.

NICK MELVOIN!

* Christmas Day sChEDulE Friday, December 25 8 a.m., 9:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m.

Christmas Day 9:45 a.m. mass will be live-streamed on our website — www.stbrendanla.org

May the new year be filled with all the good health, happiness, and peace that we’ve missed in 2020

All masses will take place in the church parking lot * All masses are subject to change due to the pandemic. @nickmelvoin ©LC1220

300 S. VAN NESS AVE. • (323) 936-4656

13

14

SECTION ONE

H appy, H ealthy H olidays!

n o s a e S Gr

Happy Holidays from the Marino family.

Wishing you a fabulous 2021!

414 N. Larchmont Blvd.

(323) 461-7876 healinghandswc.com

Ristorante

Dr. Samuel J. Porter, M.D. Obstetrics & Gynecology Larchmont Medical Bldg.

Suite 618 (323) 469-7133

6001 Melrose Ave. (323) 466-8812 marinorestaurant.com

We Hope You Have a Happy and Safe Holiday Season!

Wishing you Peace, Love & Joy

316 N. Larchmont Blvd.

(323) 463-4889

Barking Lot PAGE ACADEMY The 336 N. Larchmont Blvd.

565 N. Larchmont Blvd.

(323) 463-5118

(323) 464-3031

B

David Rhodes

Larchmont Animal Clinic from all of us at

Larchmont

HOLIDAYS — DECEMBER 2020

RHODES SCHOOL OF MUSIC 215 N. Larchmont Blvd.

Cell (323) 246-1266 • Studio (323) 464-1154 rhodesschoolofmusic.com

PLOTKE PLUM

3121 West Temple S

Santa “Sees” You!

Holiday Greetings and Best Wishes to Everyone from

Miyamoto & Associates CPA 444 N. Larchmont Blvd., Ste. 208

323-462-4845

Happy Holidays

from Ingrid, Hannah, and Leisha

GRACE WONG Electrolysis

Wishing Happy Holidays to All

444 N. Larchmont Blvd., Ste. 205

Dr. Maria Georgitsis Auerbach & Staff

(323) 460-6111

323-465-9682

Wishing Everyone A Happy Holiday Season From All of Us At

LARCHMONT PEDIATRICS 321 N. Larchmont Blvd., Ste. 1020 • 323-960-8500 larchmontpediatric.com

317 N. Larchmont

Leisha Willis, CPCU 500 N. Larchmont Blvd. • 323-785-4080

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Leipzig, Germany Since 1853

Viva la Musica!

Rejoice with Song!

KASIMOFF-BLUTHNER PIANO CO. Oldest Piano Co. in L.A. Helga Kasimoff & Sons 337 N. Larchmont Blvd.

(323) 466-7707 kasimoffpianoslosangeles.com

The Shewfelt Family 4270 Wilshire Blvd.

(323) 935-3530

Chronicle

HOLIDAYS — DECEMBER 2020

n’s s g n i t e re

Happy Holidays

SECTION ONE

Happy ays!

Holid

Larchmont Beauty Center 208 N. Larchmont Blvd.

323.461-0162

Wilshire Rotary of Los Angeles wilshirerotary.org

Peace on Earth & Goodwill to All

Best Wishes & Happy New Year

15

LARCHMONT PHYSICAL THERAPY Kathy Whooley & Staff 321 N. Larchmont Blvd. #825 (323) 464-4458

HAPPY HOLIDAYS WARM HOLIDAY WISHES from

DIANE PEARSON at

MBING, INC.

ZAVALA ELECTRIC

St. • 323-463-9201

Bernie Zavala • (818) 500-7778

Ed Lee Jr. CPA 606 N. Larchmont Blvd., Ste. 210 (323) 469-7203

WEST COAST ESCROW 622 N. Larchmont Blvd.

323-461-3080

Happy Holidays!

Warmest Wishes for the Holiday Season

Thank you for your support.

Residential & Commercial Since 1942

Customer satisfaction will bring you back to our FULL SERVICE COMPANY.

323-469-2981

supremeroofing.net 1015 N. Gower Street 90038

Happy Holidays HOLLYWOODLAND REALTY

RACHEL V. OLIVIER Putt Putt Productions

and Patricia Carroll

Wish You a Joyous Holiday Season

Proofreading, Copy Editing and Developmental Editing

323-856-9501 puttputtproductions.com

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

127 N. Larchmont Blvd.

323 464 5160

584 N. Larchmont

323-469-3171

Pacific Trust Group Mortgage Lending

LIPSON PLUMBING

Vivian, Keith,

(323) 469-2635

Larchmont Village Wine & Cheese

148 N. Larchmont Blvd.

223 N. Larchmont Blvd.

(323) 856-8699

Michael & Rob

606 N. Larchmont Blvd.

(323) 461-2840

16

SECTION ONE

HOLIDAYS — DECEMBER 2020

Marionettes (Continued from page 6)

CELEBRATION POD includes sparkling mineral water, a printed menu and placemat, along with the three-course meal.

LASAGNA VERDE is one of the options on the celebration pod menu.

Angelini helps families celebrate together

By John Welborne Stressed out because you’re not sure how to celebrate the holidays with your “pod” of friends and family safely?

Relax. Angelini Restaurant Group, 7313-7321 Beverly Blvd., has you covered.

The restaurant is packaging individual three-course meals, and, for an additional fee, will

deliver them. The idea is that friends and family can celebrate separately, yet together.

There are two fixed menus for Angelini’s “celebration pods.” Each meal package ($45) comes with its own printed menu, utensils, placemat, sparkling and mineral water, as well as antipasti, secondo and dolce options. There

is a minimum order of eight pod meals.

There also are meal trays, which hold eight to 10 servings each, if your pod of people are all in the same spot.

Main dish choices include porchetta, lamb chops or beef tenderloin.

Learn more at angelinirestaurantgroup.com.

In March, four months after the grand opening of BBMT’s new location in Highland Park, all live performances — the financial lifeblood of the organization — were ceased as a result of COVID-19, resulting in a huge financial loss.

The nonprofit theater company’s response, “At Home Happiness,” is a series of online puppet shows, prerecorded performances, and an abundance of resources for kids of all ages. The 57-year-old company was able to quickly pivot to meet the needs of children stuck at home. It also brought BBMT into the digital age, along with the launch of the Marionette Mobile, a custom retrofitted box truck that transports fully selfcontained Bob Baker puppet shows, designed for socially distanced performances and ice cream delivery, to doorsteps throughout Los Angeles.

SHOP LOCAL FOR YOUR

HOLIDAY GIFTS The family-owned merchants of The Original Farmers Market have your holiday shopping list covered! You’ll find classic toys, custom-made jewelry, stocking stuffers, Christmas trees and more.

• Anaheim House of Jerky • By Candlelight • Essence of Nature • Farmers Market Postal Center

(for easy shipping)

• Kip’s Toyland

(they gift wrap, too)

• Littlejohn’s House of English Toffee • Magic Nut and Candy Company • Magee’s House of Nuts

• Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market • Sticker Planet • Sporte Fashion • Taschen • The Dog Bakery • Weiss Jewelry • WildFlora • WL Handmade ...and many more!

Mr. Jingle’s Christmas Trees

(near Fairfax lot entrance)

Shop online or visit the Farmers Market Office for Farmers Market shirts, hoodies, hats, totes, drinkware, gift certificates and more.

6333 W. THIRD ST. • LOS ANGELES • 323.933.9211 @ FARMERSMARKETLA FARMERSMARKETLA.COM •

Larchmont Chronicle In October, a Halloween “Peek-a-Boo Stroll Thru,” transformed the landscape of live theater by leading the charge in creating safe, contactless, and fun in-person experiences in the middle of the present health crisis.

Holiday Show A holiday themed “Winter Wonderland Peek-A-Boo Stroll Thru” at the theater’s York Blvd. location will continue through late December with timed entry tickets being made available for groups of 6 or fewer. Purchase tickets at bobbakermarionettetheater. com/peekaboo.

Donations needed However, with income lost from 2020 closures due to COVID-19, BBMT is in severe danger of closing its curtains forever. Winona Bechtle, director of development and community partnerships, confirmed that the theater is embarking on a major campaign to raise $365,000.

“The BBMT will continue to provide as many safe alternative offerings as possible, but we must reach our annual goal to ensure preservation of the Theater and the thousands of puppets that call it home,” Bechtle said.

To help save the puppets, visit bobbakermarionettetheater. com/donate.

JULIO FIGUEROA, general manager, says Louise’s Trattoria on Larchmont is proud to be participating in the “Firehouse Dinner” program.

First-In Fire (Continued from page 1) dinner and in between calls, is a new program, the “Firehouse Library.” Helping launch this undertaking is Chevalier’s Books on Larchmont, the oldest independent bookstore in Los Angeles. Helping the bookstore and firefighters, the foundation has purchased new books. All are preparednessrelated and good reads, says Foundation volunteer Steven Rosenthal.

Theresa Le Phung, Chevalier’s manager, said, “For 80 years Chevalier’s Books has been an integral part of the Larchmont community. We are pleased to sell books for the foundation’s first Firehouse Library. Programs like this help at this holiday time to boost firefighters’ morale by showing the community of merchants and restaurants cares for its first responders.”

“Firehouse Dinners” already have been enjoyed by hundreds of firefighters at local fire stations including 27, 29, 52 and 61.

(Please turn to page 17)

Larchmont Chronicle

HOLIDAYS — DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

17

Pandemic dining habits reveal multiple eating personalities For those of us still not ready to eat among strangers at a restaurant’s not-quitesix-feet-apart patio tables, this whole takeout dining thing is getting remarkably boring.

For months now, we’ve turned to old favorites to provide comfort and nourishment, yet again ordering carbonara from the Italian down the street or tom yum soup from the local Thai place we’ve always frequented. Eight months into our masked, socially-distanced existence, it’s probably time to up our eating game.

Why not order from that place you pass all the time and have never tried? Or dig into your distant past and revisit a menu you haven’t thought about in eons? I recently expressed all three eating personalities: the tried-andtrue comfort seeker, the trysomething-new eater, and the nostalgic nosher.

Jon & Vinny’s is one of my go-to can’t-go-wrong Italian purveyors, and I ordered a cornucopia of comfort off their to-go menu, beginning with my favorite salad of gem lettuce, grated parmesan, pulverized breadcrumbs and a spicy, spectacular Calabrian chili dressing. I like a little kick with my food, and the cool, crisp greens with the earthy, cheesy bread bits swathed in a vinegar-tinged taste of fire provided a perfect bite.

Flavorful chicken parmesan,

First-In Fire (Continued from page 16) Firefighters personally shop, pay for food, and prepare their own meals. The foundation is trying to work with fire stations to purchase food in bulk and at wholesale prices. The foundation’s “Preparedness Freezers” program has attracted donors who are buying freezers and filling the freezers with good food in an effort to help the firefighters be well nourished and prepared for unexpected emergencies. That program began this past summer. However, because of the pandemic, freezers have been hard to come by. Freezers cost about $700, and the foundation is seeking donations to fund their purchase and funds to fill the freezers for the firefighters with food, for about $500 each, purchased from Larchmont and other local businesses and restaurants.

“Firehouse Libraries” cost approximately $250 for 12 books. It will be more when including a small bookcase to house the books. To support any of the foundation’s endeavors, visit firstinfirefoundation.org or call 323933-8164 or email: firstinfirefoundation@gmail.com.

rigatoni with minced broccolini, deeply meaty Niman Ranch skirt steak and a chopped tomato caprese with buffalo mozzarella and grilled ciabatta, all washed down with some red vino from Helen’s, the attached wine store, rounded out the tried-andtrue evening’s flavors.

Jon & Vinny’s, 412 N. Fairfax Ave., 323-334-3369.

• • • I’ve passed the unassuminglooking Tasty Noodle House countless times. As a Chinese noodle and dumpling fan, I was aware of the company’s popular San Gabriel Valley restaurant and had meant to try its newer local place.

What better time than during a pandemic to sample something new?

When delivered, we were impressed with the look of the food. Each takeout container was packed generously, and our dishes looked uni-

On the Menu by

Helene Seifer formly beautiful and appetizing. Eight plump Shanghai grilled pork buns were pleated on top, grilled crunchy on the bottom and stuffed with a delicious savory minced pork filling. Crisp-fried orange chicken was a good version of the classic sweet-and-chewy day-glo-colored entrée. Large pan-fried head-on prawn were nestled in a spicy ground pork sauce. They looked succulent; however, the crustaceans were mealy in texture and had a surprising lack of flavor. So, too, the string beans with pork and dried shrimp lacked punch. The addition of chopped garlic, grated ginger

and some Asian chili sauce perked it up. Noodles with sesame sauce is a popular dish that each restaurant seasons a little differently. Tasty Noodle House topped its in a pasty sauce that resembled straightfrom-the-jar tahini. A glug of tamari and spritz of white vinegar helped immensely. The most disappointing dish was spicy fish with tofu noodle soup. It definitely was spicy, but that was the only note it hit. Strangely, perhaps, I am willing to try them again in the hope that the success of their buns and chicken more accurately reflects their giant menu’s quality.

Tasty Noodle House, 8054 W. Third St., 323-272-3933.

• • • Hasn’t everyone in the Larchmont Village neighborhood eaten at Noshi Sushi at least once in the restaurant’s 37-year existence? I’ve eaten at this moderately-priced

Japanese bistro numerous times, but in the last few years they have often been overshadowed by the abundance of flashy new restaurants that open every day in Los Angeles (or did before the world shut down). I decided it was time to trigger memories with miso soup, spicy tuna hand rolls, garlic and jalapeno green beans, and the “tres amigo combo”: six pieces each of tuna, yellowtail and salmon rolls. I also ordered the “chili pop,” fried rock shrimp in spicy sauce.

Some of the meals I’ve enjoyed here over the years were among the freshest and bestpriced raw fish bites in the city, but other times the sushi was just a little off. This delivered meal had some of both experiences, with the cooked dishes outshining the raw.

Noshi Sushi, 4430 Beverly Blvd., 323-469-3458.

DELICIOUS HOLIDAY MEALS

MADE EASY

Our artisan grocers and specialty food merchants offer the finest and freshest holiday fare. Fulfill your entire shopping list including premium roasts and seafood plus all the trimmings, fresh-baked pies, floral arrangements , wines & spirits and more.

• Dragunara Spice Bazaar • Du-par’s Bakery & Pie Shop • Farm Boy Produce • Farm Fresh Produce • Farmers Market Poultry • Huntington Meats & Sausage • Marconda’s Meats

• Marconda’s Puritan Poultry • Michelina Artisan Boulanger • Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market • Monsieur Marcel Seafood Market • Rick’s Produce Market • T&Y Bakery • WildFlora

Don’t Feel Like Cooking?

Several of our restaurants are offering dine-in or take-home Christmas dinner options.

Visit FarmersMarketLA.com for participating restaurants.

Since 1934 6333 W. THIRD ST. • LOS ANGELES • 323.933.9211 @ FARMERSMARKETLA FARMERSMARKETLA.COM •

Larchmont Chronicle

HOLIDAYS — DECEMBER 2020

Resilience (Continued from page 3) Holiday traditions As they have been each of the last 14 years, freshly delivered Christmas trees were set to arrive on Larchmont after Thanksgiving, officially announcing the holiday season, as we went to press. They will be ready for pick up at the same location as the Pumpkin Patch, Wilshire Rotarian Scot Clifford told us.

Also, the pandemic didn’t stop neighbors from ghostly pursuits in October. Third Street and St. Brendan schools practiced safe costumed carpools and pumpkin carving

events. See story and photos on page 14, Sec. 2.

Feeding neighbors Residents in Brookside, Hancock Park and citywide have been busy on Sunday mornings since the pandemic began — making sandwiches, thousands of them. The Hollywood Food Coalition and the Hancock Park-based Hang Out Do Good coordinate the effort.

The Ebell of Los Angeles, the Junior League of Los Angeles and other charitable groups also took their fundraisers and galas online, often with surprising results. Saving money on venues and other overhead costs, the Los

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Angeles Opera reaped more at its recent Zoom gala than the previous year.

Dining out Before the Al Fresco program was halted last month, tables and chairs had spread

out on the sidewalks and curbside parking spaces of Larchmont Blvd. and around the city. Some restaurants had turned spacious parking lots into dining areas, such as at El Cholo, Marino, Kali, Osteria

Mamma and El Coyote.

Patio dining and life in general may return to normal soon. A vaccine, actually several vaccines, are on the way.

Until then, stay safe, wear a mask and raise a toast to 2021!

Larchmont

(perhaps ending Dec. 17).

Lipson building With scaffolding covering nearly one-third of the property, tenants in the Lipson Building this month are preparing for the inevitable. All tenant leases will end on Dec. 31, and construction is expected to consume the 1920s building in the first weeks of January 2021. Malibu-based real estate investment company Christina Development bought the 17,000-square-foot property in 2018 for $23.5 million.

Owner of Landis Gifts & Stationery Edie Frère told the Chronicle last month that she doesn’t have a new location “yet” but that she has expanded her website and is continuing to

take custom stationery orders at landisstationery.com. Frère notes that if you’re in need of a last-minute holiday gift, she can take orders until Dec. 9 to be delivered by the 23rd.

Vincent De Marco, owner of Vincent Hair Artistry, continues tenant improvement work on his new salon directly across the street from his current location.

De Marco said that the work will continue through December with a grand opening for the new salon set for January 2021. Visit vincenthairartistry. com.

The city’s oldest independent bookstore, Chevalier’s Books, has not yet confirmed details on its next move. Visit chevaliersbooks.com.

(Continued from page 1) existing problems in being a merchant on Larchmont are exacerbated by the new pandemic-related regulations.

“With limited staff and the physical, mental and emotional strain this has been, our hours of operation will stay at Wednesday to Sunday, 3-ish to 8-ish. We use our own delivery drivers as well as Postmates, Doordash and GrubHub.” According to Cohen, customers can either walk up for take-out orders, or they can place orders by phone starting 15 minutes before opening and stopping 15 minutes before closing. Call 323-465-5566 for an updated daily message outlining changes and schedule.

“In my heart I’m passionate, determined and committed; in my head I feel exhausted, frustrated, angry and almost defeated,” Cohen laments.

Outdoor dining suspended Last month, Los Angeles County public health officials once again suspended all dining at restaurants including at outdoor dining areas provided by the city’s Al Fresco program.

Restaurants may currently offer only take-out, drive thru and delivery services. The restriction, which took effect Nov. 25, was said to be in place “at a minimum” for three weeks

The Holiday Superstore

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20% OFF All Merchandise in the store with this ad (Except printing, already discounted goods, balloons and balloon delivery)

Shop early to avoid standing in line!

We are following the guidelines of wearing a mask and reduced number of shoppers at a time.

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SECTION ONE

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Larchmont Chronicle

HOLIDAYS — DECEMBER 2020

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19

Enjoy art, seasonal fare at LACMA on the Plaza for the holidays Head outdoors for some food, drinks and culture at the spacious Smidt Welcome Plaza at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 5905 Wilshire Blvd.

Just in time for the holidays, Ray’s and C+M planned to return with a new food and seasonal cocktail menu to be enjoyed for take-out, at least until in-person dining is allowed. Latest county health rules may change this.

FANTASTICAL sculpture of an o ce party by Ale Prager is on view outside at LACMA. Courtesy of Alex Prager Studio and Lehmann Maupin, New York, Hong Kong, Seoul, and London

Boulevard (Continued from page 1) The trees will be in an open area in the public parking lot, said Heather Duffy Boylston, spokesperson for Larchmont Village Business Improvement District. The event also sparked an Instagram battle

with “Larchmont East” (Larchmont, New York) to see who can show more support for their local merchants.

Shoppers and diners are encouraged to take photos in our Larchmont and post the photos with the tags #OneLarchmontTwoCoasts and #LASupportsLarchmont.

Crafts Marketplace to open Pick up gifts for the holidays — from embroidery kits and handmade soaps to jewelry and vintage ceramic pieces — at the Craft Contemporary Holiday Marketplace. It takes

place in the courtyard at the museum, 5814 Wilshire Blvd.

Shopping dates are Saturdays Dec. 5, 12 and 19 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shoppers can also visit craftcontemporary.store.

Shopping outdoors will also be offered at the new LACMA Store on the Plaza.

A new sculptural installation is also featured for the holidays. The work by Los Angeles-based artist Alex Prager is titled “Farewell, Work Holiday Parties” and will be on view through Jan. 3.

The work includes hyperreal

human figures enhanced with costumes, makeup and props. It joins other outdoor sculptures at LACMA: Urban Light, Levitated Mass and Miss Forest. Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. everyday. Free.

The museum’s indoor spaces remain temporarily closed pending the pandemic.

For more information visit lacma.org.

Adventure camp explores sticky world of asphalt Kids from kindergarten to 5th grade can explore the sticky world of asphalt and tar, one of nature’s versions of slime, at Adventures in Nature Connected: Winter Day Camp at La Brea Pits Mon., Jan. 4 through Fri., Jan. 8.

It’s a perfect Christmas present for a curious youngster.

The virtual interactive sessions include hands-on activities and investigation into the fate of megafauna such as mammoths and sabertooth cats.

Tickets are $100 for members and $115 for nonmembers.

Registration closes Fri., Dec. 18 at 5 p.m.

Visit nhmlac.org/adventures-nature.

Du-par’s Holiday Ham and Turkey Feast Savor a Bourbon & Brown Sugar-Glazed Ham with Pineapple Chutney and all the Trimmings!

Large Ham or Turkey (serves 8 to 10)

$255 including 2 pies

Smaller Ham or Turkey (serves 4 to 6)

$185 including 1 pie

Plated Dinner $29.95 Child’s Plate $17.95 (3-11 years)

Dinners include butternut squash soup, homemade mashed potatoes, glazed fresh carrots, green beans amandine, sweet potatoes topped with marshmallows, cranberry sauce, dinner rolls and Du-Par’s fruit pie.

Pre-order your Feast along with Holiday Pies Today!

323) 933-8446 • 323) 933-8447 Frances@dupars-psr.com In the Original Farmers Market • 3rd and Fairfax • Open for Take Out and Delivery

20

SECTION ONE

HOLIDAYS — DECEMBER 2020

Ebell (Continued from page 13) dors include stainless steel mesh handbags from Bo’s Art; Terry Holzgreen’s wood bowls, cheese boards and furniture; hand-blocked hats and fanciful fascinators from Formé Millinery; looseleaf teas in artist-designed cannisters from Fabula Tea; and Amy Faust Eco Friendly Jewelry’s colorful pieces made from repurposed materials.

Ebell President Patty Lombard is enthusiastic about how well the annual event pivoted to the virtual realm. She advises Larchmont Chronicle readers that “Our co-chairs Karlene Taylor and Karen Numme have organized a fabulous array of unique small business artisans, so the Ebell Holiday Boutique will make your holiday shopping easy, and you support The Ebell at the same time!” Twenty percent of proceeds will contribute to the Ebell Emergency Fund.

REPURPOSED MATERIAL finds new life as Amy Faust Eco Friendly Jewelry.

Virtual cocktails Under normal circumstances, the centerpiece of the shopping event is a three-course lunch. Instead, “attendees” are advised to don something sparkly to get in the spirit and join The Ebell for a virtual holiday cocktail celebration Wed., Dec. 9 at 4 p.m. A $35 ticket includes Zoom access to the festive celebration, including a winter holiday mixology demonstration by cocktail specialists from Jardesca California Aperitiva, seasonal

songs by the Ebell Chorale, a video presentation of historic film clips from the Ebell archives, holiday tips for virtual get-togethers from event planners Anne Winter and Michael Greenfield, and a ticket to the holiday raffle.

Additional raffle tickets can be purchased for $5 apiece.

An $85 ticket bundle adds a gourmet component: a spread of delectable cheeses, alongside a Jardesca “mixology spritz kit” to make the demonstrated cocktails (consisting of a bottle of Jardesca’s signature aperitif wine, prosecco and rosemary pomegranate simple syrup).

Last year’s boutique and luncheon cleared $18,000, so it will be interesting to see what the virtual approach can do in this tough time for nonprofits.

To access boutique shopping and to purchase tickets for the cocktail party, gourmet snack and cocktail delivery or raffle tickets, go to ebellofla.com. Use code EBELL2020 at checkout for boutique purchases.

Larchmont Chronicle

Doggie day spa caters to the well-heeled on Larchmont

By Suzan Filipek Jess Rona had such a long waiting list for her competition-worthy doggie cuts and blowouts, she was running out of room in her garage for her expanding business.

So she was excited to find the perfect spot to open her first commercial storefront on Larchmont.

Then the pandemic hit and slowed the opening process, but not Rona’s or her team’s spirit.

“We are so thrilled to be part of the neighborhood,” shop spokesperson Bailey Reise Melin said last month, after the spa-like facility finally opened.

Dogs of all breeds and sizes can be seen dropped off at the storefront. Inside, colorful rooms and fanciful décor await in a former antique store at 656 N. Larchmont Blvd., in the building at the southeast corner of Melrose Ave.

JESS RONA and her dog Meemu.

Rona credits lots of patience, years of experience and her fabulous doggie blowouts — made famous on Instagram — for her success.

Her Instagram slow-mo posts are set to music and show off her clients’ wind-swept hair, ah, fur? The videos sent her reputation into the stratosphere and got the attention of Katy Perry and Maya Rudolph among other celebrity clientele.

The groomer connects with rescues — gives baths to dogs with the Labelle Foundation and others — and the shop held a pet food drive for Thanksgiving through the Westside Food Bank.

When not clipping toenails and blow drying poodles and mixed breeds, Rona, who is also an actress and comedienne, is executive producing her new competitive dog grooming show on HBO Max, “Haute Dog.” “She merged her two loves,” show business and pups, said Melin.

Services include a full spa treatment at $95. A full groom starts at $135. Hours are Tuesday to Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Walk-in nail trims are offered. Street parking is available and a loading zone for drop off and picks ups is in front of the shop. To book an appointment visit jessronagrooming.com/services. No phone number is available.

INSTAGRAM-sensation cuts

by Jess Rona show off Olive’s and Ginger’s tresses.

Larchmont Chronicle

HOLIDAYS — DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

Sharing the Holidays with Los Angeles for 81 Years!

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22

MARLBOROUGH

OAKWOOD SCHOOL

LARCHMONT CHARTER

Last month was so exciting in anticipation of Thanksgiving break. During our weekly All School Zoom Meeting, the new community pledge was unveiled.

Different members of our school spoke on the evolution of the pledge and why there was a need for a new one. The new pledge leans towards building a more restorative community with help from all of our peers, teachers, and staff. Speakers also announced exciting opportunities for students to be student ambassadors and to aid in moving the process of rebuilding our community.

Beginning Nov. 16, Marlborough will host a series of events to try to ease us back onto campus.

On Nov. 16, 7th graders as well as new 8th and new 9th graders will return to school for activities. Our 12th graders will return on Dec. 7, 8th graders on Dec. 14, 11th graders on Dec. 16, and lastly freshmen will attend school on the last day before winter break, Dec. 17. Marlborough has been doing everything possible to ensure the safety of the students when going back to campus for the day; there are health screening forms, mandatory no travel 14 days prior to the campus visit, and of course mandatory mask requirements.

Although this Thanksgiving will not look like any other, I hope that everyone has a relaxing break to spend time with limited family and energize for the last stretch before the end of the first semester. Have a good break everyone!

As we move into the month of December, Oakwood continues to plan ways to safely bring students back to campus. Though we are waiting for the current situation to improve, so far, kindergarteners are safely learning through a hybrid model as it is necessary for them to gain in-person instruction. Along with the younger students, high school athletes can optionally come to campus to train for volleyball and cross-country, but they will be put under strict safety protocols.

Mid-December, Oakwood will hold a Q & A event with department chairs, emphasizing the shift from Advanced Placement (AP) courses to Advanced Studies. For a while now, the idea of Advanced Studies has been an active conversation in our community, but it wasn’t implemented until this school year. Usually, when students take APs, they quickly study the material before the exam without truly retaining the knowledge they learned. Rather than rapidly moving through a class, Advanced Studies allows students to challenge themselves with more indepth study of a course.

Lastly, this month will end with a jazz concert, giving our community a chance to listen to great music, as well as appreciate everyone’s hard work through these past few months. After this event, students will move into winter break, and will return to remote learning classes on Jan. 5, 2021.

This year Larchmont introduced a student-led tutoring program. Started by two juniors, it reaches across the Larchmont campuses.

High school students tutor other high schoolers or elementary students from other campuses. The tutors earn volunteer hours while also sharing knowledge about school subjects. The elementary schoolers often are excited to talk to high schoolers about academics and what high school is like.

The program, known as “Scholar Circle,” is a place for learning and forging relationships.

Tutor Rachel Kang (9th grade) said “Working with different grade levels really breaks the boundary of how and who you teach.”

Older students get to mentor younger students who may be struggling amid COVID. It creates a bond between different age groups that can sometimes lack a connection.

The social dynamics between older kids and younger ones is often awkward. It can be seen as uncool to hang out with someone younger than you. This program changes that idea and replaces it with mentorship and friendship.

Older kids see that they should be looking out for the elementary school kids. It gives role models for these younger students to look up to, and it will give them a friendly face when they switch campuses.

By Avery Gough 9th Grade

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

By Sally Shapiro 11th Grade

By Scarlett Saldaña 10th Grade

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Loyola High School names new VP of Advancement Loyola High School last month tapped Alexy Coughlin to be its new Vice President of Advancement. She has served Loyola since 2010 when she began as Director of Development for the school’s Parent Giving program, and later transitioned into the role of Director of Institutional Giving.

Coughlin grew up in Hancock Park and attended Immaculate Heart High School.

“As we conducted our search, it became clear that there could not be a more perfect Vice President of Advancement than Alexy,” said Loyola President Fr. Gregory M. Goethals.

“She will be heading a team of very talented fundraising professionals that she knows well and has worked with for many years. I am confident that with her leadership, we will be more successful in the important jobs that need to be accomplished.”

Alexy Coughlin Photo by Keats Elliott

Prior to Loyola, Coughlin worked in development and communications at American Martyrs Catholic School in Manhattan Beach and served in a number of executive leadership roles, including at the (Please turn to page 25)

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

Third St. and Chevalier’s collaborate for holiday shopping

By Caroline Tracy Chevalier’s Books and Third Street Elementary will partner for the school’s annual Holiday Book Fair, from Dec. 7-24. Chevalier’s will donate 15 percent of all purchases made through the website bookshop.org/shop/third-

streetschool. In addition, during the week of December 7-13, Chevalier’s will donate 15 percent of all in-person sales when customers mention Third Street Elementary.

“Chevalier’s is so happy to be helping Third Street Elementary take their annual book

fair online. It’s a great way to celebrate two beloved Hancock Park institutions, and we hope Third Street students can have all their holiday book wishes fulfilled this year,” said Theresa Phung of Chevalier’s Books.

The book fair website, created by Chevalier’s for Third

Street, can ship children’s and adult books nationwide. Chevalier’s can also order most books they don’t have in stock for in-person pickup. In the store, Chevalier’s will display a collection of books that the elementary school is hoping will be donated to their library.

“Some of the books are aimed at enhancing our collection on diversity, equity and inclusion. Others are our most well-loved, worn-out or old books that simply need replacing,” book fair co-chair Laura Dine Million said. “We hope members of our community will stop by Chevalier’s to do all their holiday shopping and will feel inspired to add a library book to their purchase.”

For anyone who would like to donate to the library but

HOLLYWOOD SCHOOLHOUSE

By Emily Mansourian 6th Grade

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Hollywood Schoolhouse is thrilled to announce our Speaker Series is back this year!

The series is a platform for HSH parents, as well as outside guests, to come and speak to our 6th graders about their journeys of how they got to where they are today. In the past, we have had lawyers, physicians, actors, and writers to name a few. Our first speaker was Emmy-winning sportscaster Chris McGee, who handles pre- and post-shows for the Lakers on Spectrum, was the former voice of Professional Beach Volleyball, and the emcee of the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.

At the start of the week, 6th grade had a cross-curricular experience with math and science about identity. First, in science, we took surveys, and compared our physical traits and personalities with each other. The next day in math, this project continued.

We made a pie chart with brown, blue, and green eyes. When everyone completed that, we made graphs containing these features.

During the month of October, fifth and sixth grade had their first school social of the year! The “social” is a dance where fifth and sixth graders play games, dance, and have fun with friends. It took place online with DJ Darien playing some good tunes, and there were also other fun activities to partake in, like a scavenger hunt! During the social, everyone was dressed up in Halloween costumes, including teachers and chaperones.

Hollywood Schoolhouse held their annual Harvest Festival on Oct. 17. There was also the first talent show of the year! There were singers, musicians, duos, and even gymnasts. Later into the event, there were chances to win v-bucks and other gaming gift cards, and there was even be Bingo, led by our very own school director, Ms. Ilise.

will not be shopping in person, Chevalier’s gift cards are available for purchase on the web site and can be donated to the school.

“We are so grateful to be partnering with our beloved neighborhood book store,” said Third Street Elementary Principal Daniel Kim. “Locals supporting locals really captures the spirit of this season.”

THIRD STREET

By Sofia Kirilov 5th Grade

Greetings from Third Street Elementary! I am very excited to report to you about our very first socially distant Halloween Spooktacular, which included a pumpkin contest and a drivethru parade! Third Street students decorated and carved pumpkins, which were used to decorate a car parade route. All families got to dress up for Halloween and drive by the school to see the creative submissions and to wave hello to our teachers who served as judges for the pumpkin contest.

Many families came by (at different times based on grade levels to maintain social distance) and some even decorated their cars.

Everyone had a blast!

Many of our students also participated in the PTA Reflections art program. This year’s theme was “I matter because …” and our students submitted projects in multiple categories, including visual arts, photography, literature and dance. We also had our first parentteacher conferences and got our first report cards! Thanksgiving was yet another great part about last month, especially because of our Thanksgiving break! We had a weeklong break from school and were able to celebrate the holiday with our families. I am most thankful for my family and friends for always being there for me.

I cannot wait for December! I am looking forward to the winter holidays and winter break! I am also very excited about our annual book fair. Third Street Panthers love books! This year Third Street’s Book Fair will be held virtually with the help of Chevalier’s Books on Larchmont. We are thankful to Chevalier´s for their donation of $1,000 dollars to our school, which we will use to purchase books written by and about people underrepresented in children’s literature for our Social Justice Book of the Month collection. You too can support our school starting Dec. 7 by shopping from Chevalier´s and mentioning our school, or purchasing books from our school library wish list which Chevalier´s will display. Anyone can also purchase books online at https://bookshop.org/shop/thirdstreetschool.

On behalf of everyone at Third Street Elementary, I want to wish you a happy, healthy and peaceful holiday season!

Larchmont Chronicle IMMACULATE HEART

By Quinn Lanza 12th Grade

Immaculate Heart’s annual WALK fundraiser was a success! Students went above and beyond in raising money for our school’s financial aid program. On WALK day, students were encouraged to stroll through their neighborhoods.

Many students and their parents could even be seen maintaining social distance and walking our traditional route along Loz Feliz Boulevard. As in past years, the Griffith Park bear statue at the park’s entrance also participated by wearing a WALK t-shirt.

SAINT BRENDAN

By Lucas Bland 8th Grade

The holidays are finally here as our 8th graders are finishing up their high school applications.

For the holidays, Mr. Johnson will be leading our classes in singing iconic Christmas songs.

Some include “Jingle Bell Rock” and “All I Want for Christmas Is You.” The quarter has just ended for us, which is a good way to start this holiday season. Our

DECEMBER 2020

After a week off for Thanksgiving, students are now prepping for their first online CAP (Cumulative Assessment Period), with teachers making adjustments to accommodate for this new online format. As the holiday season approaches, students and faculty also prepare for our annual Christmas program, which will kick off a threeweek-long winter break!

Meanwhile, our volleyball team has begun practicing on campus, gathering in groups of no more than 15 athletes at a time. During practice, athletes remain six feet apart and share one volleyball with one partner throughout the entire practice to reduce contact.

Prospective students and families can register for our open house weekend, Dec. 5-6, at immaculateheart.org. parent-teacher conferences gave us a better look at what we will be expecting for high schools.

Our Thanksgiving food drive was a huge success, and we received many donations for Alexandria House.

We all still need to be active, so we recently held a “Bears in Action” event. This event encouraged all classes to videotape their families in action. We saw some people ride bikes and some shot baskets with their families. We are starting our little buddies back up again in order to create more connections between our classes. Happy Holidays!

BUCKLEY

By Jasper Gough 11th Grade The 12th graders will have a college counseling session for an hour after school on Dec. 1.

The students will take this time to review the applications they sent in and ask any other questions that they might have with their college counselor.

Next, on Nov. 4, students in the 11th grade will return to school in small groups to participate in outdoor activities.

There will be mandatory testing and social distancing on campus to ensure the safety of the students.

The school’s virtual musical, “Echoes From the Bell Tower,” will be live-streamed to our student body on Nov. 9 and features original songs written by Buckley alums and performed by Buckley students.

Also on Nov. 9, our lower school students will have a mandatory DEI (Diversity Equity and Inclusion) session, which will teach them how to be anti-racist in daily life.

Finally, on Nov. 12, Buckley Alumni will have a holiday party over Zoom. And Nov. 14-18, the upper school students will take their final exams and final projects are due.

SECTION ONE

25

Local leader among ESLA trustee board additions The Episcopal School of Los Angeles (ESLA) recently confirmed two appointments to its Board of Trustees, adding the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles, the Rt. Rev. John Harvey Taylor, as well as the Head of School at St. James’ Episcopal School, Peter Reinke.

“This marks a significant moment in ESLA’s development,” said Brian Landers, chair of the Board’s Directorship Committee. “We are thrilled to add two renowned and well-loved figures in the Episcopal Church and California independent school world, and to continue strengthening these important relationships in our city.”

Rev. Taylor began his ministry as the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles in Dec. 2017.

Ordained as an Episcopal priest in 2004 after serving as the longtime director of the Richard Nixon Library, Rev. Taylor served as vicar of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Rancho Santa Margarita from 2004 to 2016.

Reinke began as Head of School at St. James’ in July 2018. He has worked in education for more than 25 years and currently serves on

both the Board of Standards of the California Association of Independent Schools and on the Episcopal Diocese of Los Angeles’ Commission on Schools.

Founded in 2012 and located in the heart of old Hollywood, ESLA is an independent, co-ed, college-preparatory day school serving grades six through 12.

Visit es-la.com

Loyola (Continued from page 22) National College Magazine, The Music Center in Los Angeles and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.

“I am thrilled for the opportunity to serve as Loyola’s next Vice President for Advancment. Growing up in Los Angeles and going to an allgirls Catholic high school, I was always aware of Loyola and its institutional presence,” said Coughlin. “Loyola is very special to me, and this community is close to my heart. I could not be more excited to begin this journey.”

Loyola is the oldest continually operated educational institution in Southern California. Visit loyolahs.edu.

26

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

Local runners are eager for cross country season to begin I wrestled in high school and college. It was no picnic.

Cutting weight, the grueling practices, and competing with injuries made it extremely challenging. Distance running kept our cardio up, especially off-season.

In high school, I ran cross country during the fall to help prepare for the wrestling season. Some days we’d run 10-15 miles and finish with windsprints. Then, there was Handle Road hill in the Cleveland Metroparks. Ten trips up and down that beast clobbered even the toughest runners. Cross country was a grind, and I was

Youth Sports by

Jim Kalin always relieved with the arrival of winter and wrestling season.

The 2020 pandemic has affected all sports. Spring events were cancelled, and practices and competitions for the current school year have been curtailed.

The California high school cross country season previously ran from late August to the final

week of November.

This year the Los Angeles City Section can begin cross country competition after December 26. The CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) boys’ state meet takes place March 27, so many of the teams from California’s loftier elevations will be competing in brisk winter conditions.

Loyola running Loyola High School’s runners have already been practicing. Because of pandemic restrictions, head coach Lalo Diaz can meet with his team in person just three days a week.

Before COVID, that number

was 11 times per week, which included five mornings, after school Monday-to-Friday, and once on Saturday.

“Our kids are working out the rest of the week on their own,” Diaz said.

Loyola’s runners wear specialized watches that use an app called Strava to track and share their twice-a-day workouts. Diaz can monitor how far and fast each boy runs, which leaves no doubt as to who works hardest.

“Dylan Bissell made an incredible improvement over the past year,” said Diaz of the Loyola junior. “He went from being the 12th man to our top runner.”

On most teams, being the No. 12 man wouldn’t mean much, but consider this: Bissell was just a sophomore last season, and Loyola gets 60-65 boys out for cross country.

Tradition Tradition fuels Loyola cross country. Under Diaz, who is in his 34th year as head coach, the school has won six CIF state team titles and 21 consecutive Mission League titles.

Tradition also motivates Dylan Bissell. His older brother Shane ran cross country for Loyola, and Shane was a

LOYOLA junior Dylan Bissell competing in 2019. Behind Bissell is teammate Julian Guinane.

CIF Division I state champion.

Shane ran the fastest time ever at the Riverside course during a CIF finals.

Two seniors — Arjun Vadgama and Zach Zambrano — will challenge Bissell for the top slot on Loyola’s varsity squad, and Diaz believes that’s a positive.

“The competition is good,” he said. “They push each other.”

Loyola’s first meet is the Great Cow Run in Cerritos on Jan. 9. That’s a 5K run, or 3.1 miles of chosen suffering.

I’ll take wrestling any day.

Go Loyola Cubs!

Tooth Fairy (Continued from page 10) we began working on illustrations for the book together.

She really wanted to be right next to me at that time, all the time, so we sat side by side, working — I rewrote the story — it’s originally my mother’s tale, she worked on art, and even sat as a model for the character Sally Ann.” “How the Tooth Fairy Saved Christmas” tells a magical tale about a small but mighty girl, and a smaller (yet crafty) fairy who together solve a series of problems that could deprive children of their toys on Christmas morning. Thankfully, these two strong female characters come together, tapping into their resilience and courage stores, and employing their most creative thinking to save the day.

Their plight is not unfamiliar, given how we’ve all had to function and shift our thinking during this time, but magic certainly helps.

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION ONE

27

Father Brian Castañeda is back home at St. Brendan Church

By Suzan Filipek Father Brian Castañeda, 47, may be the new priest at Saint Brendan Catholic Church but he’s not new to the neighborhood. He grew up on S. Mansfield Ave. He attended St. Brendan School and Daniel Murphy High.

He first considered the priesthood in the fourth grade, when he was an altar boy at St.

Brendan. “I liked the idea of service,” he told us.

He joined St. Brendan’s in September after Msgr. Terrance Fleming announced his retirement. (He continues as monsignor in residence.)

Castañeda came to the priesthood after studying accounting at USC, which he left to pursue his calling and received a bachelor of arts in philosophy with a

Rossmore (Continued from page 1) to address LA’s housing crises. Not only does it carefully restore a classic ’30s building but creatively weaves additional housing in and above this significant building.”

To learn more, the Chronicle spoke last month with Domos Director of Design and Construction, Richard Loring, about the project.

“I’m really excited,” said Loring about the release of the building’s final design.

Adding: “But it has been a long path to get to this point.”

When discussing the design process, Loring noted that he’s had the pleasure to work with LOHA on past projects, and counts Lorcan O’Herlihy as a friend. “But in those projects, we had a lot of freedom. This was the first time we’ve worked together on a project with so many contextual restraints,” he says of the 1930s property.

Referencing the Secretary of the Interior’s guidelines for the treatment of historic properties, Loring explained that Domos was careful in how it approached the new design. “After looking at those standards, it’s really interesting, because a knee-jerk reaction was to just finish the design [the building was originally planned as a 13-story Italianate tower]. But those standards don’t really want developers to do that. The standards call for the historic portion of the building to be recognizable and also discrete when reconfigured with additional floors,” he said.

For inspiration, Loring said that his team looked for precedent: “We looked specifically at NYC and Chicago and the classic high-rise construction on buildings dating back to the beginning of the last century. How did they handle massing? A common theme we found was stepping back the massing. It seemed like what we should be doing.”

Taking this general direction from Domos, LOHA produced about a dozen variations of massing studies before

minor in Spanish and theology from St. John’s Seminary. After he was ordained in 1999, his first parish was at St. Alphonsus in East Los Angeles.

He was then assigned as associate pastor at, and assisted in the opening of, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels.

Castañeda later served as pastor of two parishes in the mid-city before serving as secretary to Archbishop of Los Angeles José Gómez.

Later, he joined St. Gregory the Great in Whittier, where he’s spent the past five years.

Since returning to his former neighborhood, he’s moved the Sunday masses outside to the parking lot to adhere to COVID-19 restrictions.

A first generation PilipinoAmerican, he tends to a diverse flock including Latino, Korean and Pilipino members. His parents Florencio and Maria Castañeda and brother Arnold still live in the area.

“It’s quite a journey,” he said of his travels to and from church and school in Windsor Square.

“It’s been a good one.”

OUTDOOR MASS is conducted by Father Brian Castañeda.

RENDERING of Hancock Park project illustrates a design concept to enhance the scale and livability of the 1930s building with contextual architecture.

a final design was chosen.

“What I really like about this design is that it is unabashedly modern, but I also think it is incredibly respectful to the existing architecture,” said Loring. He is confident that the design allows for the 90-year-old building to be brought into compliance with current seismic, life safety and accessibility code requirements while respecting the history of Hancock Park.

Once reconfigured, the building will include studio, one-bedroom and co-living apartments that showcase 60 percent traditional and 40 percent co-living units with the ability to house in total 225 residents. In co-living suites, residents have private bedrooms and baths but share kitchen and living room facilities. Also included in the plans are new amenities like a gym, pool and rooftop lounge space.

Since taking ownership of the rent-controlled building, Domos has been in negotiations with residents offering either “cash for keys” buyouts, or the option to return to the building after renovations are complete utilizing the city’s tenant habitability plan, which covers the cost of temporarily relocating to alternate housing. Loring confirmed 40 residents have accepted the buyout offer, while 16 residents plan to return to the building at the same rate that they pay now.

The project is slated to begin the construction phase in June of 2021 and is expected to take approximately 22 months to complete.

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2020_GAF_Larchmont_November_Final_HR-Print.pdf SECTION ONE

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DECEMBER 2020

Larchmont Chronicle

The Most Wonderful Tıme Find a gift for everyone on your list and make merry memories with evening snowfalls, nightly visits from Santa and photo ops by our Christmas Tree.

A LO YO G A · A M E R I CA N G I R L P L AC E · A P P L E · AT H L E T I C P R O P U L S I O N L A B S B A R N E S & N O B L E · B L U E R I B B O N S U S H I B A R & G R I L L · C H A R LOT T E T I L B U RY E D O BY E D OA R D O B A L D I · F R A M E · L A D U R É E · L U CY Z A H R A N & C O. · L U L U L E M O N C

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N I K E T H E G R OV E · N O R D S T R O M · O C TO B E R ' S V E RY OW N · P I C N I C S O C I E T Y BY GW E N R AY- B A N · S A N D R O · S E E ' S CA N D I E S · S E P H O R A · V I N C E · A N D M O R E

MY

CY

CMY

K

T H E G R OV E L A .C O M

|

@T H E G R OV E L A

RESILIENCE

AWARDED

BOOK TOUR

Schools and students carried on during the holidays.

WSA Squeaky Wheel Award went to the area’s Tree Canopy Master Planner.

Author and Larchmont Chronicle founder is on a book signing tour.

Page 14

Page 6

REAL ESTATE LIBRARIES HOME & GARDEN

Page 16

VIEW

Section 2

LARCHMONT CHRONICLE

DECEMBER 2020

HANCOCK PARK • WINDSOR SQUARE • FREMONT PLACE • GREATER WILSHIRE • MIRACLE MILE • PARK LA BREA • LARCHMONT

101 S. Norton Ave | Windsor Square | $5,299,000 Gorgeous Mediterranean w/4 Bdrms, 4.5 bas, bright airy rooms, stunning kitchen & 1 bed BH

201 S. Plymouth Blvd. | Windsor Square | $4,995,000 Beautifully remodeled & restored English just 1 block to Larchmont. 3 bed/3.5 ba+1 bed GH

Rick Llanos 323.810.0828 CalRE #01123101

Rick Llanos 323.810.0828 CalRE #01123101

267 S. Windsor Blvd. | Windsor Square | $4,500,000 SOLD OFF MARKET. Represented the Buyers of this beautiful remodeled one story home w/ pool + guest house.

315 Lorraine Blvd. | Windsor Square | $3,999,000 Best 4 bed + 4 bath upstairs layout + private park like grounds. 315Lorraine.video

Rick Llanos 323.810.0828 CalRE #01123101

Loveland Carr Group 323.460.7606 CalRE #01467820, #0888374

238 S. Norton Ave. | Windsor Square | $2,995,000 Family friendly Traditional on Norton with 5 bedrooms, 3 baths & newer kitchen plus large yard.

Rick Llanos 323.810.0828 CalRE #01123101

527 N. Cherokee Ave. | Hancock Park | $2,499,000 IN ESCROW. Well maintain Spanish on great block w/ 5 bdrms, 4.5 ba, large rooms & orig details + pool.

Rick Llanos 323.810.0828 CalRE #01123101

208 N. Beachwood Dr. | Larchmont Village| $1,955,000 IN ESCROW. Romantic Spanish with 3 bedrooms, 2 bath, beautiful kitchen & calming gardens.

Rick Llanos 323.810.0828 CalRE #01123101

233-235 N. Irving Blvd. | Windsor Square | $1,899,000

6330 Primrose Ave. | Hollywood Dell | $1,599,000 Modern Architectural in Hollywood Hills w/ 3 bdrms, 2 baths, open living spaces & outside office.

Rick Llanos 323.810.0828 CalRE #01123101

550 S. Arden Blvd. | Windsor Square | $9,950/ MO Chic 3 bed@ w/ bath + powder! 2 bed/2 bath UP; Master w/ nu fab bath down!

Lisa Hutchins 323.460.7626 CalRE #01018644

440 S. Arden Blvd.| Windsor Square | $6,680,000 440Arden.com. 5 Bed /6.5 Ba + basement w/theater, new ba+gym, laundry. Pool/spa, guest house.

Lisa Hutchins 323.460.7626 CalRE #01018644

530 S. Rossmore Ave. | Hancock Park | $4,699,000 Resort–like 25,089 sqft lot. Pool/spa, 4Bed/2.5ba in main house+Studio Apt ADU. Magical!

Lisa Hutchins 323.460.7626 CalRE #01018644

SOLD - Rare duplex in HPOZ w/ charming outdoor space. Delivered vacant. 4BD+3.5BA. 233Irving.com Loveland Carr Group 323.460.7606 CalRE #01467820, #0888374

330 S. Irving Blvd. | Windsor Square | $4,795,000 Classic L.A. Elegance and the Ultimate Home Office.

5 beds + 3.5 baths. 330Irving.video Loveland Carr Group 323.460.7606 CalRE #01467820, #0888374

134 S. Windsor Blvd. | Windsor Square | $3,799,000 SOLD - Elegant Country English w/ generous lightfilled rooms. 5BD+3BA. 134Windsor.com Loveland Carr Group 323.460.7606 CalRE #01467820, #0888374

346 N. Gower St.| Larchmont Village | $1,936,000 Sparkling Spanish with 3 beds +2.5 baths. Exterior guest suite as well as a detached office. 346Gower.com

Loveland Carr Group 323.460.7606 CalRE #01467820, #0888374

81462 Joshua Tree Ct. | La Quinta | $3,600/ MO Trilogy 55+ 30 day rental home. Two beds suites + den. Dec 2020, April 2021. Golf. Pool Barbara Allen 323.610.1781 CalRE #01487763

COLDWELLBANKERHOMES.COM Hancock Park 323.464.9272 | 251 N Larchmont Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90004 The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2020 Coldwell Banker Realty. All Rights Reserved.

Coldwell Banker Realty fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. CalDRE #: 00616212

2

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

Back to square one? Preservationists have reason to hope Historic Preservation is by nature a conservative endeavor, which seeks to reinforce the connection to the past through the protection and celebration of built history. (“Conservative” as in “conserve” and “conservation.”)

Progress in this city often is seen as being in conflict with historic preservation, with some people saying they are seeking forward movement and often-radical change as a means of addressing civic problems. In our most recent election, the race to represent the residents of Council District 4 was fought by two selfproclaimed progressives over a swath of Los Angeles rich in historic resources and steeped in the tradition of preservation.

Quick learner As I observed in my November column, Councilman David Ryu has been an enthusiastic and responsible steward for this heritage, and he has used his term in office to strengthen and expand protections for historic monuments and neighborhoods. This did not come naturally. When he began his tenure, Ryu did not have a deep knowledge of historic preservation policy. He learned quickly on the job, however, by engaging advo-

cates and preservation groups and by participating in City of Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument designations and the creation of Historic Preservation Overlay Zones (HPOZs) in his district.

CD4 again finds itself with a new Councilmember, Nithya Raman. With Councilmember-elect Raman, we find ourselves again at square one.

But, once again, there is reason to hope that preservationists will have a partner in CD4 who is open-minded and willing to see preservation as a net good.

Preservation and housing C o u n c i l m e m b e r- e l e c t Raman was elected with the help of a young and devoted following that — armed with a laser-like focus on the issues of homelessness and affordable housing — enthusiastically drove the Raman campaign to victory. These two issues, compounded by the pandemic and its economic fallout, are the paramount challenges of Los Angeles in our time.

Detractors would say that preservationists are NIMBYs who oppose change and stand in the way of more affordable housing being constructed.

However, closer examination of the record reveals that pres-

New Listing 322 S. Rossmore |$5,995,000 5 Bed+5 Bath| Hancock Park

In Escrow 201 S. Rimpau| $5,795,000 4 Bed+4.5 Bath|Hancock Park

Sold in 3 Days 640 Lillian Way| Hancock Park

On Preservation by

Brian Curran

ervation has a vital role in the provision of affordable housing and in providing shelter for the homeless.

I was heartened to hear that the Councilmemberelect had read the Los Angeles Conservancy’s “Preservation Positive” white paper and found it enlightening. That publication (at tinyurl.com/ y2snaken) highlights facts such as that five percent of the city’s rent-controlled units are in HPOZs; 58 percent of all rental properties were built prior to 1960; and, within HPOZs, 51 percent of units are affordable to a low-income couple. My personal favorite was the white paper’s analysis of the city’s 673 strip malls as being under-built land ripe for development. As I reported in a previous column on “Preservation Positive,” historic neighborhoods are dense, varied in property types, and diverse, exactly what housing advocates encourage. Los Angeles cannot build its way

New Listing 137 N. Larchmont |$2,995,000 4 Bed+4 Bath|Windsor Square

Sold 301 S. Lucerne|$2,975,000 5 Bed+3 Bath|Windsor Square

Sold in 3 Days

out of homelessness without preserving the affordable housing it already has.

We hope that Councilmember Raman will be pleased to learn how many individual historic structures have been re-purposed as shelters for the homeless, particularly as bridge housing. Monuments such as the Hollywood Studio Club designed by Julia Morgan, architect of Hearst Castle, is now a women’s crisis housing facility. The craftsman mansion Casa Zulma in Koreatown is now bridge housing for transgender women. The mid-century former Will and Ariel Durant public library and the Wallis House in Hollywood serve as bridge housing for women and for women and children. And, downtown, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation bought and converted several historic hotels into supportive housing for Skid Row. Use what we have As Los Angeles faces a severe financial shortfall as a result of the pandemic and over-promised public pensions, advocates for the homeless like the Councilmember-elect will have to look for more practical solutions to deal with the affordable housing crisis than big taxpayer-funded programs. The historic resources

of this city are tools ready to be used in this effort. We hope Councilmember Raman will promote their utilization for the good of CD4 and Los Angeles.

Toast Modernist Ray Kappe at benefit Dec. 3 Virtual tours of architect Ray Kappe’s daring residental designs from the 1970s will be featured at a benefit for the Los Angeles Conservancy.

“Levels of Kappe,” on Thurs., Dec. 3 at 6 p.m., will explore the late architect’s role in shaping the Modern movement. Architectural experts, including his wife – architectural historian Shelly Kappe — will make remarks. Tickets are $35 for members and $75 for the general public. Visit laconservancy.org.

Benefit Committee cochairs include Bill and Jennifer Fain and Diane Keaton.

Celebrate with a toast with Kappe’s favorite nightcap — a classic martini. Cheers.

Happy Holidays!

May Peace, Happiness, Health & Prosperity be yours during this holiday and throughout the New Year.

648 Lillian Way| Hancock Park

DRE #01870534

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

3

A quick trip through Los Angeles history with Wayne Ratkovich

By John Welborne Wayne and Jo Ann Ratkovich have lived in Windsor Square and Hancock Park (and Windsor Square again) for most of the past 50 years. Wayne has become a “famous real estate developer,” especially because of his interest in historic preservation. (He preceded me in serving a nine-year term as a Trustee of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.)

Wayne has won many welldeserved awards. For example, last summer, the Los Angeles Chapter of the American Institute of Architects recognized him as a Presidential Honoree. Named the “Merry Norris Design Advocate - Developer” for 2020, Wayne was singled out for his work in “city building since 1977.”

Just a few weeks ago, the “Los Angeles Times” had a major feature story about San Pedro and the “West Harbor” dining, shopping and entertainment complex emerging on the site of the former Ports O’ Call. The project is being built by the Ratkovich Company and Jerico Development of San Pedro.

In the spring of last year, Wayne’s wife, Jo Ann, convinced him that a lot of her local friends in the Auxiliary of the Hospital of the Good

LUNCHEON SPEAKER Wayne Ratkovich and Jo Ann.

Samaritan would enjoy hearing from him about local real estate development and his role in it.

That indeed was the case. Interested Auxiliary members and guests filled a room at Wilshire Country Club to hear Wayne’s presentation. Lucky to attend on behalf of the Chronicle, and as a longtime real estate person myself, I was singularly impressed with what Wayne had to say. I later convinced him to let the Larchmont Chronicle share his remarks with a far wider local audience.

Wayne told the guests that he “would like to share some thoughts about Los Angeles including what I think are the agents of change in Los Angeles and in cities throughout

our country and the world.”

He said he would conclude those thoughts by recounting his own company’s “experience with historic preservation and what I have discovered about the importance of preservation over the past few decades.”

This talk took place in May of 2019, a year before COVID-19 arrived, of course. But the talk covers a long stretch of Los Angeles history, a period that included the arrival and departure of the Spanish flu as well as other detours on the road to where our city is today and where it is going. Regardless of the coronavirus bump in the road, I find Wayne’s predictions for the future to be sound, and I believe readers will find his talk of interest.

[This is the first of two parts.

The second part will appear in our January issue.]

THE CITY

By Wayne Ratkovich Let’s take a quick trip through our city’s history. The shortcut I will take is looking at the city in 50-year increments beginning in 1900, with a second increment beginning in 1950 and the third in 2000.

This commentary focuses on Downtown Los Angeles where, I believe, the city’s history began and is most interesting.

THE CALIFORNIA CLUB, founded in 1887, is among three clubs that had significant early influence on the growing city.

1900 - 1950 Just prior to 1900, three clubs were formed that were to have a significant influence on the growing city — the Los Angeles Athletic Club in 1880, The California Club in 1887, and the Jonathan Club in 1895. Members of these clubs have been significant forces in the growth and history of Los Angeles.

Railroads came to town in a big way. The Santa Fe Railroad opened a line linking Los Angeles to the rest of the nation with the price of tickets as low as $1, no doubt contributing to the population boom that was about to occur.

The Pacific Electric Railway

was created in 1901 by Henry Huntington and Isaias W. Hellman to connect Los Angeles to the outlying suburbs. In 1944, there were 109 million riders transported on 1,150 miles of track.

In 1901, Huntington also founded the Los Angeles Railway, the company that operated the Yellow Cars — the streetcars that served the nearby neighborhoods. According to some historic accounts, the Yellow Cars carried more passengers than the Red Cars.

Population growth followed the rails and the sunny weather. In 1900 the city’s (Please turn to page 12)

4

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

DISTINGUISHED Tudor-style home at 361 N. Citrus Avenue, demolished in October 2019.

CONSTRUCTION underway at 361 N. Citrus Ave., at the corner of Oakwood, November 2020.

Jill Galloway

323.842.1980 | jill@jillgalloway.com

Estates Director, Sunset Strip

jillgalloway.com | DRE 01357870

At the end of quarantine and this holiday season, if you decide you can’t stand the people you live with, remember, I’m your Realtor® Compass is a licensed real estate broker (01991628) in the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice.

Home at 361 N. Citrus Ave., one year later

By John Welborne The reaction throughout Los Angeles to the sudden demolition last year of an historic 1927 Tudor-style home at 361 N. Citrus Ave., on the southwest corner of Oakwood Ave., was like a roar of outrage that echoed everywhere.

Tinyurl.com/y2j8s5xq is just one example. There are nearly 100 other online references to the destruction of the home.

The beautiful home had been purchased by developer Reuven Gradon, president of Afton Properties, and his wife, who had sent a letter to the sellers stating unequivocally how the Gradons would care for and preserve the home. Shortly after the sale closed, however, the home was demolished.

A chief complaint of neighbors and architectural preservationists was that the legally required notice of demolition was not posted properly.

The Gradons said they subsequently had decided their family (then three, including a young son) needed a larger, more modern house. One year later, that large house is very visible.

Neighbors and architectural preservationists, especially the distraught sellers of the house, who were so shocked at its demolition last year, sought solutions for the future. There have been numerous suggestions offered on how to protect an historic property. See, for example: larchmontbuzz.com/featured-stories-larchmontvillage/361-n-citrus-ave-anarchitectural-loss-and-preservation-lessons-learned.

Also, guidance on easements and using covenants in a grant deed to achieve your preservation goals is available at: tinyurl.com/yxac775f. See also: tinyurl.com/uvtuegw.

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

THANKFUL

FOR MY CLIENTS AND FRIENDS WHO HAVE MADE 2020 THE BEST YEAR YET!

120 N. Hudson Ave. Represented the Buyers

201 S. Plymouth Blvd.

100 N. Irving Blvd.

Represented the Buyers

508 N. June St.

101 S. Norton Ave.

527 N. Cherokee Ave.

147 N. Windsor Blvd.

Co-Listed with Maria Gomez

449 N. Highland Ave.

251 S. Citrus Ave.

203 N. Gower St.

208 N. Beachwood Dr.

238 S. Norton Ave.

267 S. Windsor Blvd.

Represented the Buyers

425 N. Gower St. Represented the Buyers

424 N. Larchmont Blvd.

Represented the Buyer

5717 W. 2nd St..

Co-Listed with Kathy Gless

111 N. Ridgewood Pl. Represented the Tenant

131 N. Citrus Ave. Represented the Tenant

147 S. Poinsettia Pl.

645 Wilcox Ave. #3D Co-Listed with Kathy Gless

1853 Buckingham Rd.

801 S. Longwood Ave. Co-Listed with Sandy Boeck

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5

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

Windsor Square, Windsor Village hold annual meetings

By John Welborne This year, the Windsor Square Association (WSA) and the Windsor Village Association (WVA) held their annual meetings via Zoom.

Windsor Square For the Nov. 12 WSA meeting, both Councilmemberelect Nithya Raman and LAPD Wilshire Division Capt. Shannon Paulson participated.

Nearly 80 people attended. The association’s annual Squeaky

Wheel Award was presented to Scott Goldstein in recognition of his decades of work improving and maintaining the neighborhood’s tree canopy.

The WSA board for the coming year was elected and consists of: June Bilgore, Jeryl A. Bowers, Gary Duff, Amy Forbes, Mike Genewick, Gary Gillig, Jason Greenman, Larry Guzin, Helen Hartung, Hope Heaney, Katie Jones, Caroline (Please turn to page 13)

Goldin named president of MMRA; O’Sullivan retires Community activist and author Greg Goldin has been elected president of the Miracle Mile Residential Association [MMRA] succeeding longtime MMRA president James O’Sullivan.

Greg Goldin Goldin has been a resident of the Miracle Mile for decades. He was the architecture critic at Los Angeles Magazine for 12 years, and he is the co-author of the books, “Never Built Los Angeles” and “Never Built New York.”

“Greg brings an array of skills

and talents to the job,” said Ken Hixon, MMRA senior vice president. “He is an experienced journalist and a strong community advocate. He will ensure that MMRA continues as one of the most effective neighborhood associations in the city.”

A former MMRA board member, Goldin has also worked on the area’s successful Historic Preservation Overlay Zone campaign.

Goldin has a long history with the neighborhood: “My parents moved our family to the Miracle Mile in 1965, and pretty much ever since, this neighborhood has been my front yard and my back yard,” he said.

FIRST ADOPTED IN 1946, the City of Los Angeles Planning and Zoning Code has grown from an 84-page pamphlet (at left) to a thick, replaceable-page volume.

Zoning Code moving towards modernization

By Suzan Filipek Since its introduction, the 1946 City of Los Angeles Planning and Zoning Code has grown from a slim and manageable 84-page document to a massive ad hoc patchwork of height limits, parking requirements and historic overlay zones.

Unorganized and unruly, the code is difficult to navigate except for an in-the-know developer or a hired pro.

To simplify the process and make it accessible to the professional and lay person alike, the City Planning Dept. unveiled a draft of its proposed new Processes and Procedures Ordinance (PPO) Nov. 10.

It’s the first step in modernizing the city’s Zoning Code, City Planner Bonnie Kim told

us last month.

The 700-page draft ordinance will act as the administrative guide for the New Zoning Code, which is the first chapter of the Los Angeles Municipal Code.

The proposed PPO will not change any of the rules on height limits or parking requirements. “There is no rezoning happening with this ordinance,” Kim said.

Re-zoning to come later That will come later, as the city’s 35 Community Plans, including the Wilshire Community Plan, are updated. (No date has been set for Wilshire, but it is expected to be reviewed in 2021.)

What this hefty new document will do is provide consistency and clear rules to create

an even playing field.

“Part of the difficulty now is the rules are not organized in a consistent way,” Kim told us. To find what you’re looking for, you almost have to already know what you’re looking for amid the “legalese and text-dense” information, she said.

Since 2016, Kim has been working to calm the cacophony of rules and introduce a streamlined, user-friendly format for homeowners, mom and pop businesses and lay people in general as well as architects, developers and other pros.

The new format cuts project review processes — everything from application to appeal requirements — by half, (Please turn to page 18)

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

‘American Pickers’ to scout for treasures in our locales “American Pickers” is looking for locals with tales to tell and rare and collectible items to feature on the History Channel’s documentary series.

The show’s hosts, Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, will be scouting the state this month,

including Hancock Park and surrounding areas.

Large and rare finds and interesting characters are a plus in the hunt for America’s most valuable antiques.

Filming will follow COVID-19 state and county guidelines and protocols. To learn

more, call 1-855-OLD-RUST (653-7878) or write to AmericanPickers@cineflix.com.

Leave your name, address and contact information and a brief description of your collection.

Mike and Frank only “pick” from private collections, so no

stores, museums, businesses or anything open to the public will be considered.

The episode is expected to air a few months after filming, said Sarah Perkins, casting associate at Cineflix Productions.

THE CREW: Frank Fritz, Danielle Colby and Mike Wolfe.

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

9

21-year-old makes fashion-forward twist for 1960s Contempo Casuals

By Talia Abrahamson Stylish women, popular girls, Cher Horowitz from the 1995 movie “Clueless” and every fashionista in between during the late 20th century flocked to Contempo Casuals, a pioneering giant in fast-fashion clothing. Both the brand’s future and aspects of its history are tied to Hancock Park.

Los Angeles couple Dottie and Wil Friedman founded the clothing company in 1962, soon after coming to Los Angeles. Although the chain disappeared in 2001, its flamboyant prints and trendy styles are being revived locally — on T-shirts. The Friedmans’ grandson, Hancock Park resident Max Rubin, 21, just launched “Contempo Tees.”

Rubin is a graduate of Campbell Hall and currently is a college senior at Chapman University, where he is majoring in business administration and management.

Rubin’s grandfather Wil Friedman approached him with the idea to repurpose original Contempo Casuals advertisements for e-commerce.

Friedman had been collecting his brand’s advertisements from billboards, newspapers and magazines throughout the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s. Ultimately,

SHIRT DESIGNS from Contempo Tees.

Photos by Max Rubin

Rubin selected three designs from his grandfather’s archives, digitized them and placed them onto T-shirts.

Rubin plans to include even more designs in the future. “[My grandfather] always worked for himself, started new businesses, taking on new challenges and loved to learn.

I think this was him wanting to embark on another endeavor, and I know, throughout life, he always saw a similar drive within me,” Rubin said.

“He always wanted to push that, and helped me get to that point, as well.”

The two were able to develop the concept together for a year before Friedman passed away in September 2019.

All genders Rubin brings a modern twist

to his grandparents’ old business. Unlike the flamboyantly feminine Contempo Casuals, Contempo Tees caters to people of all genders, prints only in monochrome and uses a white vintage T-shirt style.

“I want to not copy Contempo Casuals, but more modernize it –– make it more applicable to fashion today and make it easy for people to accept and see what Contempo Tees is now versus Contempo Casuals,” Rubin said.

Part of Contempo Casual’s history has another local tie.

Philip Hawley Hancock Park resident Philip M. Hawley, 95, said he saw the same marking of modernity in Contempo Casuals when his company bought it from the Friedmans in 1979.

Hawley was the chairman of Carter Hawley Hale Stores, a large retailer that also owned Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman. At the time of the purchase, Hawley recalls that Contempo Casuals was worth approximately $6.4 million in assets.

Hawley, a longtime local resident who has lived in Windsor Square and Hancock Park, and who has many offspring and their families living around Larchmont still, said in our recent interview that other

people in the fashion industry were developing products to appeal to as many demographics as possible. The Friedmans did not come from a fashion

background –– they were liquidators who got hooked on selling unsold women’s clothing — and so they developed (Please turn to page 10)

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10

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

Hugh Wilton remembers ‘the jungle’

By Jane Gilman Hugh Wilton was five years old when his family moved across the street from the Wood family compound, the present-day Harold A. Henry Park in Windsor Village.

(See Oct. 2020 Larchmont Chronicle story in Section 2, Page 8.)

Wilton remembers playing with neighborhood kids in what they called “the jungle,” an overgrown area that was part of the 1.6-acre property owned by Dr. Eldie Wood, who came to Los Angeles in the

early 1900s.

The odd-shaped parcel Wood purchased became the site of five houses for his family.

Wilton’s father purchased their house on Windsor Blvd. near Ninth Street in 1953.

In the early 1960s, the Wood family tried to rezone its property to allow the building of a 50-unit upscale apartment building.

Wilton’s mother, Peggy Beckendorf, recalled the neighborhood effort to stop the zoning change. “It took

three years of constant protesting before the city agreed to buy the land for a park,” his mother told Wilton.

A bond issue had been passed, calling for more parkland in the city and providing the necessary funds to enable Councilman Harold A. Henry to have the city purchase the Wood acreage and its buildings.

A park was constructed, and it was officially dedicated to the councilman in 1966. Henry served the city’s Fourth District from 1945 to 1966.

HAROLD A. HENRY PARK is an island of land in Windsor Village that replaces what was once the Dr. Eldie Wood family compound.

Photo of Wood Family book

tempo Casuals had exceeded the $100 million mark in sales.

Sealed the deal With other fast-fashion competitors catching up with-

in the following decade, the chain was losing money and Carter Hawley Hale sold it to Wet Seal Inc. for $1 million in stock in 1995. Contempo Casuals remains the property of Wet Seal Inc., which now operates exclusively as an online retailer.

“Its potential to grow and contribute growth diminished over time because the base you were working to succeed with was not changing in size to the degree that we had grown the business,” Hawley said. “The growth potential, when you’re going that fast, diminishes over time. I didn’t have the upside multiplier potential in later years that I had had

Contempo (Continued from page 9) a nontraditional approach to retail where they zeroed in on one primary demographic group.

“Contempo Casuals was, in my judgment, a very, very outstanding group of stores that were catering to young and fashion-conscious women,” Hawley said. “As I recall, when we bought them, they had perhaps eight or 10 stores, and every one of them was doing well and clearly their customer base was enthusiastic about the product offering they were making. We decided we would try to buy it and expand it dramatically, and we

MODEL wears a Contempo Tee.

did that.”

Carter Hawley Hale turned Contempo Casuals into a nationwide brand with over 200 storefronts. By 1985, Con-

in earlier years.”

Path for the future Rubin is charting his own path with Contempo Tees, even as he builds on his grandfather’s archives and advice.

Once he graduates from college, he says he plans to devote even more energies into growing the company.

“I’m very fortunate to have my grandparents who developed that legacy that I think puts me ahead of competition right now, and I think there’s a lot of potential,” Rubin said.

“And besides any success from the company, it has been so valuable, what I’ve learned from this and the skills it has taught me.”

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

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11

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

Ratkovich (Continued from page 3) population was just a shade over 100,000 and by 1950 it reached two million residents.

Spring Street emerged as the “Wall Street of the West” with a stunning growth of buildings and enterprises.

Starting with the Hellman and the Continental buildings in 1902, buildings constructed during the boom included Crocker Bank, Farmers and Merchants, Title Insurance, the Rowan, the Security, the Spring Arcade, the Los Angeles Stock Exchange, Lloyd’s Bank, Pacific Southwest Bank, E.F. Hutton, California Canadian Bank, the Mortgage Guaranty Building, the Banks & Huntley Building, Barclay’s Bank, the A.G. Bartlett Building, the Bank of America and the Financial Center Building.

Retail also caught a wave into downtown with Arthur Letts’ Broadway Department Store at Fourth and Broad-

L.A. TIMES BUILDING bombing was in 1910.

BROADWAY DEPARTMENT STORE at 4th and Broadway.

way in 1896. Letts also backed John Bullock, who founded Bullocks at Seventh and Broadway in 1907.

At the turn of the 20th century, A. Hamburger and Sons moved onto a site at Eighth and Broadway and built a department store that was to become the largest west of

for SALE or LEASE N LARCHMONT BLVD LOS ANGELES

Chicago, later known as the May Company.

The Broadway Theater District included 12 theaters built between 1910 and 1931.

They included the Cameo, the Arcade, the Palace, the Million Dollar, Loew’s, the Orpheum, the Rialto, the Globe, the United Artists and the Los Angeles.

Many of us remember Jack Smith, the gifted columnist for the “Los Angeles Times.”

Here is what Jack Smith had to say about the theaters on Broadway: “I remember walking into those opulent interiors, surrounded by the glory of the Renaissance, or the age of Baroque, and spending two or three hours in the dream world of the movies. When I came out again the sky blazed; the heat bounced off the sidewalk; traffic sounds filled the street; I was back in the hard reality of the Depression.”

This from the “L.A. Times” in 2006: “There was a time, long ago, when the streets of downtown Los Angeles were awash in neon — thanks to a confluence of movie theaters the world had never seen before.

Dozens of theaters screened Hollywood’s latest fare, played host to star-studded premieres and were filled nightly with thousands of moviegoers. In those days, before World War II, downtown L.A. was the movie capital of the world.”

Success came to Los Angeles despite the turbulence coming from the bombing of the L.A. Times building in 1910, WWI (1914-1918), WWII (19411945), the Los Angeles Aqueduct water wars of the teens and twenties, and the Great Depression of the 1930s.

In the first 50 years of the 20th century, Los Angeles became a real city, and downtown Los Angeles was the beating heart of the Southern California region. It was the center of banking, law, real estate, retail and entertainment — all made available to citizens living to the north,

south, east and west. The next 50 years were quite different.

1950 to 2000 In 1915 there were 55,000 cars on the streets of Los Angeles. Today there are two million cars in Los Angeles and 5.5 million in the County of Los Angeles.

The automobile, freeways and the idealism of suburban living changed Southern California and all of Los Angeles. The changes in store for Downtown Los Angeles were historic, profound and enormous in scale.

The opening of the Arroyo Seco Parkway in 1940 and its direct connection to downtown in 1953 was a sign of what was coming. Freeways reaching out to West Los Angeles, the San Fernando Valley, the San Gabriel Valley, the South Bay and Orange County brought mobility to the surging population of Southern California that followed the end of World War II. How could life be any better than to live in the suburbs of sunny Southern California?

Mom, Dad, the two kids, the new home, a barbecue, and a (Please turn to page 13)

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Larchmont Chronicle

Ratkovich (Continued from page 12) pool — it just could not get any better. Ozzie and Harriet showed us the way.

The same mobility enabled industries, retailers and entertainment venues to head for the ’burbs. Homes for mall rats spread across the county with devastating consequences for urban retailers like those in Downtown Los Angeles.

Spring Street was all but vacated by the banks, law firms and brokerage houses that made the street such an important part of downtown.

Most of the Broadway theaters closed or changed their programming to appeal to Latino audiences. Broadway became a street dominated by retailers serving the Latino market.

Streets were flooded with shoppers every day, and on weekends it was as much a social experience as a shopping trip.

In the second half of the century, leadership in the city began to shift from the private sector to City Hall. In 1955, the city adopted the Bunker Hill Urban Renewal Project, a huge site of 133 acres stretching from First to Fifth streets and from the Harbor Freeway to Hill Street. To make way for new development, eminent domain was widely used, ultimately leading to the demoli-

DECEMBER 2020

tion of an entire residential neighborhood.

To support the redevelopment cause, the city lifted the height limit for buildings in 1957. In 1968, Downtown Los Angeles got its first truly high-rise building, the 40-story Union Bank Plaza at Fifth and Figueroa.

In the meantime, leadership in the private sector was on the decline. A publication

by USC’s Annenberg Center said the following: “In the early 50s, the Committee of 25, which, depending on your historical interpretation, was either an enormously powerful clique of the city’s business elite or a shadow government running the city [was active].

By either interpretation, this one centralized group of players was recognized as being the de facto power center in the City of Angels.... It was through their influence that the Brooklyn Dodgers became the Los Angeles Dodgers.” The meeting place for the Committee was The California Club.

Fall from grace More from Annenberg: “The biggest change since (the early ’50s) has been the L.A. business community’s fall from grace. Once there was a myriad of large corporations with enormous footprints in Los Angeles: ARCO, Pacific Mutual, Security Pacific National

Bank, Bullocks, United California Bank and Carter Hawley Hale. Most of those companies have either been bought or have simply left town.”

Los Angeles was no longer the dynamic city it was in the first 50 years of the century.

Indeed, it was tagged as a “suburb in search of a city,” an unflattering but accurate label.

But the second half of the 20th century wasn’t all gloom and doom in downtown. In 1958, the Dodgers moved to Los Angeles and opened Dodger Stadium in 1962. In 1960, the Democratic Convention was held in Los Angeles and nominated the future president, John Kennedy. In 1962 the first Super Bowl was played in Los Angeles, and in 1990 the Metro Blue Line connected the downtowns of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

In 1964 the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion opened, and in 1967 both The Mark Taper Forum and the Ahmanson opened.

Office buildings were the primary form of development in downtown from the day the height limit was lifted. From 1983 until 1991, 22 million square feet of new office buildings were constructed downtown. Indeed, the city got the skyline it so badly wanted.

These new office buildings were not great economic successes.

SECTION TWO

13

The largest hotel in the city, the Bonaventure, opened on Figueroa Street in downtown in 1972. The Broadway Plaza opened to great fanfare in 1973 when architect and developer Charles Luckman designed the first truly mixed-use property in Los Angeles — a hotel, an office building and a retail center all linked together.

In 1993, heavy rail transit finally came to Los Angeles, initially with a line running from Union Station to Seventh and Flower streets and later extending west to both North Hollywood and to Wilshire and Western.

Two good and important forces emerged during the cen-

tury’s second half. One was the “Downtown News,” a publication born in 1972, and — in 1977 — the Los Angeles Conservancy held its first public meeting at the Oviatt Building in downtown. The “Downtown News” and the Conservancy have both served and supported downtown in a very positive and constructive way.

So, the second half of the 20th century saw the growth of the region being accommodated in the suburbs, but urbanity was not abandoned.

Let’s go to the next 50 years — the period we live in now.

[From 2000 to 2050 will be the subject of next month’s conclusion of this essay.]

Annual meetings

dinner, installation of doggie bag dispensers and their continual re-filling in Harold Henry Park, collecting food (as well as donating $800) for the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank, holding “Movies in the Park” and contributing to local Fire Station 29, the LAPD Wilshire Division and Memorial Library.

Two new board members, Andrew Lo and Ciji Davis, were elected to join continuing members Barbara Pflaumer, Heather Brel, Virginia (Ginger) Tanner, Jeff Estow, Anthony DiMaggio, Julie Kim and Chris Turner.

Outgoing board member Betty Fox was thanked for her service.

(Continued from page 6) Labiner Moser, Angie Szentgyorgyi, Steve Tator and John H. Welborne.

Windsor Village More than 20 members of the WVA gathered for a Zoom “cocktail party” annual meeting on Nov. 21, and they were feted with hand-curated boxes of grapes, cheese, crackers, olives and honey courtesy of Maggie Clancy.

The WVA board reviewed some of its accomplishments including: revitalization of the neighborhood block party, introduction of a potluck

14

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

DRESSED UP, with school parking lots to drive through, vehicles stole the show this Halloween.

Car decorating, drive-thru events on brand for Halloween 2020

By Caroline Tracy Halloween was not all-butcanceled, as it turned out.

Keeping with the spirit and ethos of the time, schools “pivoted” by providing new, safe traditions for children and families to partake in.

For at least two local schools, drive-thru pumpkin carving contests and decorated car parades replaced the traditional

LUNCHTIME — socially distanced, of course — inside the under-construction Audrey Irmas Pavilion on the southeast corner of the Wilshire Boulevard Temple block on Wilshire Boulevard.

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class party and school-wide costume stroll.

Third Street Elementary’s staff and parent organizations came together to host the Spooktacular Pumpkin Carving Carpool Event Oct. 29.

The event showcased pumpkin designs from the student body, as staff and parent volunteers greeted families along the car route and safely distributed candy.

(Please turn to page 19)

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CARVED and decorated pumpkins from Third Street Elementary’s contest and carpool event (above and below).

IN THE SPIRIT — Dashiell Kirkley, Miles Paley, and Beckett Kirkley with dog Otis Kirkley.

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

15

December’s cinnamon: fragrant, fortifying and not all the same

by

Paula Panich

Yemen. Pliny turns out to be the reliable narrator. It is not known whether these writers are referencing C. verum or C. cassia, but the spice trade in both was wild and brutal.

Cinnamon experiment Let’s get back to my kitchen, and yours. I bought three different “cinnamons” from the same purveyor (spicehouse. com). Many supermarket cinnamons are actually cassia; some are labeled as such, some not, and most do not source the spice. From Spice House, I tested true C. verum “Ceylon;” C. cassia, “Korintje” (from In-

Miss the Sunday farmers market?

Now you can shop on Wednesdays The Larchmont Farmers Market has added an additional day to the traditional Sunday market at 209 N. Larchmont Blvd. The Wednesday market is open from 1 to 5 p.m.

Melissa Farwell, manager of Raw Inspirations’ Larchmont Farmers Market, said the additional Wednesday market is in the same location as the Sunday market, at the Larchmont Village clock tower. The addition of the second day gives vendors a chance to set up at least once a week, as well as for customers to visit vendors they may have missed on Sundays. For more information visit facebook.com/LarchmontVillageFM.

CINNAMON is traced to ancient times.

the savory Moroccan bisteeya.

The cassia “Korintje,” far more pungent, and with its three percent volatile oil content, was much too strong and bitter in my tablespoonful experiment. However, it lives up to the general medicinal reputation of all cinnamons — cooling to the stomach. I was amazed.

The cassia “Saigon” is peppery, spicy, maybe a bit fiery,

with a knockout, rich fragrance. It has a high volatile oil content, five percent, and is used in chocolate and often in the strong, strong taste of “cinnamon” buns.

Each of the three has its place in your cooking. A far more scientific culinary experiment with cinnamon and cassia can be found on cooksillustrated.com/articles/342shopping-for-cinnamon.

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donesia); and C. cassia, “Saigon,” obviously from Viet Nam. I made three small aluminum foil boats. In each I put five slices of the same apple, a tablespoon of butter, a tablespoon of brown sugar, and in each a different tablespoon of the three spices under consideration. (A teaspoon would have been fine, but I wanted to push the fragrances and the tastes.)

The Ceylon true cinnamon was still mild and sweet even in this large quantity. It has a low volatile oil content (one to two percent) and is preferred in Europe and Mexico, and by me in the incessant apple crisps I seem to make, and it pairs well with cream and milk. It has a subtle fragrance, and I would say subtlety and sweetness sums it up. It is used in Middle Eastern tomato sauces, and I would use it in

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If you are fussy about where your wine comes from, and perhaps your favorite chocolate, you might have an interest in the provenance of the cinnamon you measure out for the sweets on your table, and even the savory.

Fortifying, cooling, and vivifying, cinnamon, though its scent is unmistakable, is not generic. I have just consumed my fill in an experiment I’ll get to in a minute; I suspect my house will hold this divinely sweet fragrance for a good long while.

Cinnamon is a bit of a botanical and historical tangle. In the U.S., the bark of the true cinnamon, now known as Cinnamomum verum, and the bark of C. cassia, a related tree, can be labeled as “cinnamon,” but not so in the U.K. In French, the single word “cannelle” applies to both.

Ancient spice Ceylon (now Sri Lanka) has been the source of C. verum from ancient times until today.

A 7th century BCE archeological find on the isle of Samos shows evidence of cinnamon in a sanctuary of the goddess Hera. Herodotus weighed in on cinnamon in the 5th century BCE in Book III of his “Histories,” with a fantastical tale involving cinnamon in the mountain nests of enormous birds, and “Arabians” who lure the birds with pieces of dead cattle, thereby causing their nests to fall down so the bark can be gathered.

The song of this spice can be heard in the Bible’s 45th Psalm and in Ezekiel. The ancient writers Strabo and Pliny the Elder mention it too. In Pliny’s “Natural History” is found a story about spice traders swiftly crossing the Indian Ocean in monsoon season, with a first pause at a harbor in

16

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

‘Last Vermeer’ evokes the priceless beauty of the Dutch originals The Last Vermeer (8/10) 118 minutes. R: Based on the story of WWII-era Dutch painter Han van Meergren, this film is highlighted by Guy Pearce’s scintillating performance.

Rarely do you find a performance like this, one that lights up the screen every second he’s on. Van Meergren is arrested shortly after the end of WWII and accused of being a traitor by selling priceless recently “discovered” Vermeer paintings to the Nazis, especially Herman Goering. The cinematography (Remi Adefarasin) is entrancing. There is a scene at the beginning of two people sitting at a table with a garden that is so beautifully framed and set that it looks like an oil painting itself. The Dutch locations are equally captivating. Both are Oscarworthy and add immensely to the enjoyment of the film. The

Family-Run

ending is bogus, but I don’t want to go into that because it would be a spoiler, and it’s too good a film that should be watched in ignorance of the facts. In theaters.

Queen’s Gambit (8/10) Six episode mini-series TVMA: I fell in love with Anya Taylor-Joy earlier this year when she starred in the delightful “Emma.” She is even better in this, playing Beth Harmon (who is played as a nine-year-old by Isla Johnson in a dazzling performance).

Harmon is the protagonist of the 1983 novel by Walter Tevis. This story of a chess prodigy is, at heart, a sports story of an amazing participant that is poignant and fulfilling, dealing as it does with competition and drugs. It is at times distressing, but is mostly uplifting. Netflix.

The Undoing (8/10) TV

with

Tony Medley mini-series, six episodes TVMA: Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant give outstanding performances in this thriller about a seemingly loving couple whose lives are grossly interrupted by a brutal murder. This grabs you at the outset and never lets go. HBOMAX. My Psychedelic Love Story (7/10) 98 minutes. NR: Timothy Leary was the high priest of LSD who told people to “turn on, tune in, and drop out.” This is filmmaker Errol Morris’s introspective story told through a four-tape interview Leary gave with a prison psychologist and by his much younger (25 years) girlfriend, beautiful Swiss-born, French-

By Rachel Olivier Buy an autographed copy of “Inside Hancock Park”

by Jane Gilman and hear her speak on the history of the neighborhood at a Zoom talk through the Windsor Square-Hancock Park Historical Society Wed., Dec. 16 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $30 for a copy of the autographed book and the presentation, or pay $10 for just the presentation. Visit tinyurl.com/ y66n7dmb for information and tickets.

Around the neighborhood When last we heard from Larchmont Chronicle found-

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Like many new war films, it consists mostly of walking and talking. If these undisciplined soldiers were ever on a mission they would have been wiped out in the blink of an eye. Prime.

Last Call (3/10) 110 minutes. NR: This has been in the can for a long time. It should have stayed there. The story of the last year of Welsh poet Dylan Thomas’ (Rhys Ifans) life, 1953, it’s mostly Thomas orating poetically (and unrealistically) and drinking, almost two hours of it. While the abstruseness of what Thomas says may lead one to believe that writer / director Steven Bernstein was using Thomas’s words, not so. All the dialogue was written by Bernstein, and it is so over-the-top it is offputting. When I lived in London the Welsh had a bad reputation. This Thomas is a real jerk, and the two hours I spent watching him was agonizing.

In theaters.

Insider Jane Gilman makes rounds for book ‘Inside Hancock Park’

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raised heiress Joanna Harcourt-Smith, who met him in Paris when he was a fugitive and they fell in love. She tells her story, disjointed but heartfelt, and it involves many icons of the ’70s like Andy Warhol, Diane von Furstenberg, Adnan Khashoggi, even The Rolling Stones. The interview was conducted over two days. She jumps back and forth. It’s a unique, if convoluted, peek at Leary, but what’s more interesting is the naked look we get of her as she searingly bares her soul. Showtime.

Recon (4/10) 95 minutes.

NR: Inspired by a true event in WWII Italy, this tries to capture the tension and ambiguity of war by concentrating on a small squad of soldiers challenged not only by lifethreatening, but life-altering, experiences over the period of one day. It is terribly burdened by a myriad of technical and production design errors as well as serious plot holes.

HOURS *Library-to-Go at Fairfax and other select libraries: Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; Thurs., Dec. 24, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Fri., Dec. 25, closed; Thurs., Dec. 31, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Fri., Jan. 1, closed. Visit lapl. org.

CHEVALIER’S BOOKS hosted an event with Jane Gilman in conversation with Tom LaBonge.

er Jane Gilman, she was announcing publication of her book in our October issue.

Since then, despite COVID-19 restrictions, she’s had a whirlwind tour around the neighborhood discussing her book.

In November, Gilman spoke at a Zoom luncheon for the Wilshire Rotary. Also, Chevalier’s Books posted a talk between Gilman and former Fourth District Councilman Tom LaBonge. They discussed some of the little-known bits of history regarding Hancock Park. A video of the conversation is available at chevaliers-

books.com/jane-gilman and on YouTube.

Gilman also discussed her work and the history of the neighborhood with native Hancock Park-er Lisa Hutchins at the home of Yvonne Cazier for a benefit for St. Vincent Meals on Wheels last month.

When we reached out to Gilman to see where she might be next she quipped, “Alas, I haven’t heard from ‘60 Minutes’ yet.”

You can find “Inside Hancock Park” at Amazon and at Chevalier’s Books.

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

17

Entering a ‘different’ brave new world as history repeats from a grid. The Detroit Opera did a mini-remix version of Wagner’s “Gotterdammerung” in the parking structure of its opera house, with the “audience” driving through in their cars, listening to the performance on their radios. Ticketmaster has announced that it is exploring ways in which to verify that theater- and concert-goers will have had their vaccinations and test negative 24 hours prior to show time, to guarantee future sales.

O brave new world! In midNovember, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell said that the economy “as we know it” may be over. We are, he said, “recovering, but to a different economy” with technology, automation and new spending and savings habits permanently altering the economic landscape. Mr. Powell made no determination as to whether or not this was good or bad. It was just different… and inevitable.

Future of performance?

I think the same will be true for the performing arts.

Those $800 “Hamilton” tickets look a little absurd (ob-

‘Clara’s Nutcracker Tea Party’ served While the Los Angeles Ballet will not be performing “The Nutcracker” this season, “Clara’s Nutcracker Tea Party“ will be offered online Sun., Dec. 20.

Guests who sign up will sip tea and taste savory and sweet treats while watching past performances from Los Ange-

les Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” starting at 11 a.m.

Ticketholders will receive a party box to open during the tea.

Tickets are $39.99 for individuals or $125 for a table.

For more information, visit tinyurl.com/y567e3ps or go to losangelesballet.org.

Historical Society 2021 speaker series announced The Windsor Square-Hancock Park Historical Society kicks off its speaker series Wed., Jan. 13. Robert Inman will speak on his book “An Architectural Guidebook to Los Angeles” at 7 p.m. Buy a ticket with an autographed copy of the book for $55.

“Bunker Hill Los Angeles: Essence of Sunshine and Noir,” by Nathan Marsak, will be the topic Wed., Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. Autographed copies of the book with a ticket to the presentation are $50.

Michele Asselin will speak on her book, “Clubhouse

Turn: The Twilight of Hollywood Park Race Track,” Wed., March 17 at 7 p.m. An autographed copy of her book that comes with a ticket is $60.

David Judson speaks on his tome, “Innovation in Stained Glass,” Wed., May 12 at 7 p.m.

An autographed copy of the book and a ticket for the talk can be purchased for $70.

Presentation-only tickets are $10. A password and link will be provided for the Zoom events at the time of purchase.

For more information, visit windsorsquarehancockpark. com.

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Louis Fantasia scene?) when people can’t pay the rent. Crowding into a 2,000-seat theater on a winter night just doesn’t have the same appeal it did a year ago.

How many more “socially distanced” scenes do I have to watch before screaming out, “this is just not interesting!”

Whatever the theater will be, it won’t be what it was. This has happened before in the history of the theater, often when politics and art collide.

Take, for example, the English Restoration.

In September of 1642 (barely a quarter century after Shakespeare’s death), the Puritans shut down all the theaters. They were places “of lascivious Mirth and Levity,” undermining the morals of the nation. After beheading Charles I, England suffered under the Interregnum

‘Sorting Room Sessions’ are on demand at Wallis The “Sorting Room Sessions” programs are back at the Wallis Center for the Performing Arts, which has scheduled a number of pre-recorded performances for December and January. Ticketholders will have 24 hours from 8 p.m. the day of the performance to view each session.

Tickets are $25 for a single event, $60 for three performances and $96 for the entire series.

Visit thewallis.org/SR for more information.

of Oliver Cromwell, where, by the mid-1640s, actors, writers and producers were considered rogues and vagabonds who should be whipped out of town. Many fled to France to join the exiled court of Charles II. In 1660, when Charles was “restored” to the throne, producers loyal to the Stuart monarchy were given “patents” with which they could open theaters (such as the Drury Lane) and present plays.

Wit, satire from France Well, no boring Shakespeare for them! They brought back theater from France that was based on wit, satire and manners, with women(!) playing the female roles, in indoor theaters (modeled on Louis’ French tennis courts), with lighting and box seats. Play-

wrights such as Wycherley, Sheridan and Congreve were, to quote the 1920s American critic James Branch Cabell, “the first of English authors to present a world of unscrupulous persons who entertained no special prejudices, one way or the other, as touched ethical matters.” No comeuppance for an evil Iago or Richard III here. The villains become land-owners, venture capitalists and politicians. As I said, O brave new world!

But be of good cheer, Dear Holiday-maker, this too shall pass, and we shall, I believe, eventually enter into a new era of theatrical creativity and energy. We just have to wear our masks, repeal the Electoral College, and remember that there’s more to life than the Hallmark Channel!

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As you can tell by now, Dear Reader, this is our holiday edition, and your critic’s calendar is chock-a-block with “Nutcrackers” and “Christmas Carols” and “Tuna Christmases” and “Radio City Music Hall” extravaganzas to review…

Er… Sadly no.

Our national nightmares are far from over, and my greatest fear is (pace politics and pandemics) that holiday entertainments will be left to the Hallmark Channel. Good grief, Charlie Brown!

A quick, informal and totally unscientific survey reveals that our local theaters, such as the Anteus Company, A Noise Within, Will Geer, Independent Shakespeare, Inkwell, etc., are hanging on, trying to subsist on Zoomed readings and online classes. Mark Taper, the Opera, Pantages, and LA Phil remain closed, eating into their endowments and the goodwill of their subscribers, who have donated back tickets etc. Experiments abound: a Brazilian theater company wrapped individual seats in what looked like shower curtains suspended

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

earning to two step with the big blind the pre op and the river Our October poker column explored preflop starting hands. (Reminder: Each player has been dealt two hole cards and must decide whether to stay to see the flop — the next three cards that are dealt face-up — “community cards.”)

Step 1 in our two-step process was your decision to play your two-hole cards before the flop. Now comes Step 2: Your hand must improve on the flop! If not, be prepared to muck your hand. There is always an exception: If your hand does not improve, but everyone checks, you get to see the turn for free. (Never refuse a free card.) If you are the big blind and there has not been a raise, you also get to see the flop for free. On the other hand, if your hand does improve but only to a modest

degree (giving you a marginal hand), stay in only if there are no raises. It just is not worth a double-bet.

Did your hand improve enough to warrant further investment?

Sometimes it is obvious. If you started with Ace-King in the hole and connected with another Ace on the flop, you now have top pair with best kicker — most likely the best hand at that point. You might even decide to make a raise to thin the field to give your big pair a better chance to hold the lead until the showdown, or to build the pot you are now favored to win.

Counting Your Outs Often, your starting hand will improve to a degree, but is not a made hand — that could win without further improvement. Drawing hands need

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George Epstein somewhat further improvement to have a good chance of winning. An example is fourto-a-flush (best if it includes a high honor card in the hole).

There are nine others (13 – 4) of your suit still unseen — nine good outs. (To be conservative, we are not counting overcards.)

The 4-2 Rule You can use probability theory to calculate the odds against connecting with one

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Note: There are also charts available that will give you the card odds for various outs.

Finally, compare your card odds to the pot odds — how big is the pot compared to your cost to call to see the next card. Suppose an opponent bets $4 on the flop, leaving $40 in the pot. You are getting (40-to-4) — that’s 10-to-1 pot odds which is much higher than your card odds (less than 2-to-1). In the long run, you will come out well ahead by calling that bet.

So now, you too know the two-step.

George Epstein, a long-time local resident, is the author of three poker books and currently is writing “Win More in Texas Hold’em.”

Resident recognized for unique teaching, mentoring methods Longtime Larchmont area resident Dr. Leo Gordon was given the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Master Clinician Award in November for his effective mentorship and unique teaching methods.

Gordon was recognized for his effective and unique methods of teaching during surgical procedures, his work on designing programs for physicians re-entering medicine after absences, his work on

the educational assessment of surgical complications and his impact on surgical education.

The award recognizes innovations in bedside teaching and contributions to national and international medical educational literature. It is given annually to a member of the medical staff who has been instrumental in the medical education and mentorship of students and young physicians.

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days, from the former system of 10-24 days; and filing an appeal will be standardized at 15 days, compared to today’s 10-15 days.

The City Planning Commission (CPC) recommended approval of the ordinance in Oct. 2018 with corrections identified by the public; community input continued after the public comment period was extended.

The revised draft is expected to go back to the CPC in the spring. If approved, the draft will move to the Planning and Land Use Management Committee of the City Council, followed by a City

(Continued from page 6)

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of your nine outs — your card odds. But that is a bit complicated. Instead, most skilled players rely on the 4-2 rule; it gives a reasonable estimate.

With both the turn and river to come, multiply the number of outs by four. In this case, that gives you an estimate of 4 x 9 = 36. This is the estimated percentage of the time you will connect to make the flush on the turn or the river.

Hence, you miss (100 – 36 =) 64 percent of the time. Your card odds are 64 divided by 36 = 1.88-to-1 (approximately 2-to-1) against connecting. If you miss on the turn, then multiply your card outs by two to estimate the card odds against connecting on the river.

from 120 to 60, and standardizes the processes that remain.

The rollout couldn’t come at a better time, as many businesses are struggling to survive and rebound from the economic downturn of recent months. The businesses need all the help they can get, so making the rules clear, and easy to find, will save money on professional expediters, said Kim. Key changes Key changes in the ordinance include: Extending public hearing notices to 21

LARCHMONT resident, Dr. Leo Gordon, recognized.

Attorney review before a final vote is scheduled for the full City Council. The soonest the ordinance could be adopted would be the end of 2021.

For more information on the draft ordinance visit Planning4LA.org.

A public information seminar will be held on Wed., Jan. 13 from 1 to 3 p.m. To be notified about the seminar and other events, visit planning. lacity.org/about/email-sign-up.

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Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

SECTION TWO

19

Saint Francis had a role in popularizing Christmas carols Why do we “carol” at Christmas? asks Debbie Forward.

The relatively modern word carol is from the Middle English carola, which was not a song but a ring dance performed to singing and flute music. It was originally brought to Britain by the Romans, who of course, stole it (as they did most things) from the Greeks. By the Middle Ages, however, “carol” had come to mean the singing more than the dance.

The Christmas tie-in came about when Saint Francis of

Professor KnowIt-All Bill Bentley Assisi wrote a Latin hymn of praise to be sung at his annual Nativity Play. This “carol” was so popular that it soon fostered the composition of many other carols, which became standards at Christmas services throughout the Catho-

lic world. During the Reformation these songs ran afoul of Puritan austerity and were banned and mostly forgotten.

If you look carefully at the composition dates, you’ll see that most of the Christmas songs we sing were written in the 19th century. We may have lost the old carols, but not the love of praising the birth of the Redeemer with song.

• • • Why do we “rest on our laurels”? asks Lisa Eastman.

In ancient Greece, the laurel was a plant that grew on Mount

Olympus and was sacred to the gods. It was therefore chosen to be made into wreaths to crown the victors at the Olympic Games and heroes of almost any kind. To rest on one’s laurels, then, amounts to quitting while one is still a hero or champion.

• • • Why has high society always been known as “The 400”? queries Robin Welch.

This numerical appellation was coined in 1889 by society reporter Ward McAllister, who opined that only 400 people

Delivery by robot. What next?

Meet Serve. It is Postmates’ automated delivery rover, spotted here on Nov. 23 navigating the sidewalks near S. Mansfield and First Street delivering food to a resident. The company is currently testing robot delivery of restaurant orders in Los Angeles and San Fransicso. The

robot creates a live video feed as it navigates autonomously from restaurant to customer, allowing a human supervisor to take over the controls if it gets stuck or encounters a problem.

The all-electric rover has a 50-lb. capacity and is equipped with an interactive touch screen to unlock the delivery.

SERVE delivers food to a waiting resident.

Photos by Robert Ronus

truly qualified as New York society. He got the amount from the number of society stiffs that the ballroom at Mrs. Astor’s Fifth Avenue town house was designed to accommodate, there being only that number worthy of an invitation.

• • • Why do we “curry” favor? ponders Ed McPherson.

This is a corruption of the Middle English expression to curry Fauvel. Fauvel was a centaur (a mythical beast, half horse-half man) in a popular 14th century satirical French romance play who symbolized cunning and bestial degradation. Hence to curry or pet Fauvel was to enlist the services of duplicity, to ingratiate oneself by slavish attentiveness.

Professor Know-It-All is the nom de plume of Bill Bentley, who thanks readers for 32 years of questions. He bids us “adieu” with this column.

Send your own thanks to him at willbent@prodigy.net

VEHICLES made an entrance at St. Brendan’s, above and below.

Halloween

(Continued from page 14) St. Brendan’s 8th-grade students and staff spearheaded their events to the delight of the younger students Oct. 30.

Students and their families were greeted by the spookily dressed organizers and safely were given candy treats as well.

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THIRD STREET staff and “Panther” mascot greet students and families.

deAdline For the JAnuAry 2021 iSSue iS Tues., deC. 15, 2020.

Larchmont Chronicle's

Classified ads

Call Pam Rudy

323-462-2241 ext. 11

©LC1220

606 N. Larchmont Blvd.

PH (323) 466-8591

• Newly remodeled suites • Close to Studios & Restaurants • Village Atmosphere, Parking Provided • Very Competitive Rent

For Larchmont Chronicle Advertising Information

tell our AdvertiSerS you "saw iT in The larChmonT ChroniCle!"

Place a classified ad at circulation@larchmontchronicle.com.

For rent

ServiceS

ServiceS

Wilshire Vista Apt. Proofreader HOTOGRAPHER 2 Blks. NE of Pico & Fairfax CoPy editor 1300 Block of S. Odgen Dr. PET PORTRAITS, develoPmental editing LA, CA 90019 Books, Scripts, Theses, 1 Bdrm., 1 Bath., $1,500 Moly. HEADSHOTS, EDITORIAL 2 Bdrms., 2 Baths, $2,000 Moly. Exp. creative professional; Dissertations, Newsletters, very cat & dog savvy. newly deco., part city/mntn. vw., Magazines & More. hdwd., carpet & lino. flrs., Visit emiliasparagna.com aP, aPa, mla, carport/off street pkg. or email ChiCago StyleS Application Needed somejerseygirl@sbcglobal.net + 20 years exp.

Phone Intvw. & Sec. Dep. Req. Also available for dog walking. 323-856-9501 Call (323) 394-0606 Located in Hancock Park.

Ask for Carolyn puttputtproductions.com

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~

Pet AdoPtion community

community

Foster or adopt your next furbud!

Public Service Announcement

Locations open by appointment only.

Call (888) 452-7381

• Wash hands often • Cover mouth/nose w/ tissue when coughing / sneezing • Clean frequently touched surfaces daily.

• Stay six feet away from people while out in public.

HopeNet needs your help to fill the Or donate money or shelves at local food pantries! materials to: L.A. Animal Svcs.

90 cents out of every

laanimalservices.com

dollar donated directly reaches those in need.

Visit: hopenetla.org/ donate

JULY 2020

Visit corona-virus.la

community HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

20

SECTION TWO

Larchmont Chronicle

DECEMBER 2020

Best Wishes to You and Yours this Holiday Season!

Bret Parsons Founder & Executive Director, Architectural Division

Aaron Montelongo Estates Director

310.497.5832 bret@bretparsons.com DRE 01418010

310.600.0288 aaronmontelongo@gmail.com DRE 01298036

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. DRE 01866771. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate.