MUSEUM ROW
MARDI GRAS
PRESERVATION
Works inspired by artist's iconic images of Los Angeles are at the Petersen Museum. Page 9
Celebrate with Cajun food and music at Farmers Market.
Bungalow courts among threatened sites on city's preservation-watch list.
Page 4
Page 2
VIEW
Real Estate / Entertainment Libraries, Museums Home & Garden
Section 2
LARCHMONT CHRONICLE
February 2017
hancock park • windsor square • fremont place • Greater Wilshire • Miracle Mile • park la brea • Larchmont
SEARCH FOR MORE LISTINGS AT
ColdwellBankerHomes.com
HANCOCK PARK
BROOKSIDE
HANCOCK PARK
HANCOCK PARK
Magnificent 3-sty mansion overlooking the golf course, sited on nearly an acre lot. 5+7.
Dramatic, renovated English in Brookside. 5beds+office+2.5baths. Large lot w/brook & pool.
Exciting New Listing Brookside! Completely remodeled, lightfilled, large corner lot.
Private oasis w/ huge lot & newer pool! 3bd/3ba.Guest House.Central A/C, hardwood floors.
HANCOCK PARK
HANCOCK PARK
HANCOCK PARK
HANCOCK PARK
Lovely Spanish remodeled with quality & attention to detail. 3+2+converted garage+backyard
Windsor Square adjacent 2 story Mediterranean. 4+3+gsthse. Located in Wilshire Park HPOZ.
South facing, 2+2.5, unit overlooking “Fremont Place Estates” at the “Wilshire Fremont”.
Top floor unit w/ golf course vus. Remodeled kitchen & baths. Balcony. Pool/spa. Move in!
MIRACLE MILE
MIRACLE MILE
MIRACLE MILE
HANCOCK PARK
Restored 3+3+office, FDR, fplc, hwd flrs, yard, air. New kitchen w/SS applc. Near Grove.
2 Sty single family home for lease. 6+4+kosher kitch. Close to Grove & places of worship.
Character duplex in great rental area near Grove. 2+2 up, 2+2+den down, delivered vacant.
Large & spacious 1st flr unit in a corner bldg overlooking pool & garden. 5BD/3.5BA.
COMING SOON
Cecille Cohen (213) 810-9949
$1,650,000
Betsy Malloy (323) 806-0203
$7,000/ MO
Cecille Cohen (213) 810-9949
$2,695,000
$2,650,000
Loveland Carr Properties (323) 460-7606
Sandy Boeck (323) 860-4240
$1,399,000
$1,095,000
Jenny Chow (323) 460-7624
June Lee/James Song 323-860-4262x4255
$6,500/ MO
Cecille Cohen (213) 810-9949
COMING SOON
Rick Llanos (323) 460-7617
$1,800,000
Lisa Hutchins (323) 460-7626
$975,000
Peggy Bartenetti / Barbara Allen (323) 610-1781
AVAILABLE FOR LEASE Bob Day (323) 860-4221
WHERE HOME MEETS STYLE A look into sophisticated living plus industry voices, a curated collection of premier properties, and more.
CBINSIDEOUT.COM
HANCOCK PARK NORTH (323) 464-9272 251 North Larchmont Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90004
COLDWELL BANKER® SELLS MORE HOMES THROUGHOUT LOS ANGELES THAN ANY OTHER REAL ESTATE BRAND
HANCOCK PARK SOUTH (323) 462-0867 119 North Larchmont Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90004
©2017 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage.
2
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
Larchmont Chronicle
Which Way SurveyLA? Staggering statistics tell the story Many of you may remember a groundbreaking initiative begun almost a decade ago when the J. Paul Getty Trust partnered with the City of Los Angeles to create the city’s first-ever citywide inventory of historic places. That effort, known as SurveyLA, has completed its field survey efforts and is wrapping up the data analysis that will allow
tics were staggering, however. How to compile data on over 880,000 parcels? How to involve the residents of 35 Community Plan areas? How many academics, city staff, professional consultants, volunteers and interns would it take to make sense of it all? The Office of Historic Resources (OHR), led by Ken Bernstein and SurveyLA coor-
us to understand the historic built environment for the first time in a comprehensive way. This exercise wasn’t just about numbers (how many historic buildings are “enough” to save in a city oriented to the future?), but about the value of telling the story of the city through its neighborhoods and its architecture. The numbers and the logis-
dinator Janet Hansen, devel- requests, has already providoped protocols for the field ed leadership in this area by survey, designed a special data- introducing council motions base to handle the material, directing the Cultural Heriand created themed “context tage Commission to review several Surstatements.” The veyLA propcitywide context erties in his statement idenMcAvoy on district. Each tifies themes in Preservation request needLos Angeles hisby ed a sepatory and relates Christy rate council those themes to action, and extant resources McAvoy the councilcategorized by man and his property type (residential, for instance) staff are to be commended and associated architectural for their timely assistance. As styles. Nine broad contexts a result, the Charlotte and were created, among them Robert Disney House in Los “Architecture and Engineer- Feliz was designated; the Bob ing,” “Residential Develop- Hope Estate in Toluca Lake ment and Suburbanization,” was declined. Norton bungalows and “Public and Private Institutional Development.” The Decisions on two Spanish results, largely available now Colonial Revival bungalow at preservation.lacity.org/sur- courts at 412-20 and 424-30 vey, show the diversity of this N. Norton Ave. in the Wilshire Community Plan area are place we call home. pending as of this writing. The SurveyLA benefits According to OHR, the sur- courts are part of a population vey has a “multiplicity of ben- of about 20 properties in the efits and uses,” among them Plan area included in Surveyto “help direct future growth, LA, a mere handful of which shape the vision of Los Ange- are in the Greater Wilshire– les’ 35 Community Plans, adjacent, and Windsor Village, streamline environmental streets of Alexandria, Kingsreview, provide opportunities ley, and Plymouth. (There are for public education … and many more extant examples of spur heritage tourism and the property type, but Surveymarketing of historic neigh- LA has developed criteria for borhoods and properties.” The inclusion based on retention Planning Department, led by of character-defining features, Director Vince Bertoni, and rarity of type, and ability of decision makers should now the property to convey its sigincorporate survey findings nificance.) Bungalow courts into the entitlement, environmental review, and develop- Bungalow courts, once a ubiquitous feature of the Los ment process. Angeles landscape, provided Ryu initiatives Councilman David Ryu, housing for newly arrived resresponding to constituent (Please turn to page 3)
NEW LISTING!
Originally constructed Tudor Style in 1936 and now remodeled and ready for you to move in! Prime mid-block location. 4 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, family room, open kitchen and grassy back yard with swimming pool. New central heat/air and indoor access from the garage. Nice …
©LC0217
Offered at $2,650,000
310-623-8722
Lic.#00981766
BruceWalker.com
Larchmont Living’s Distinguished Speaker Series: Ken Bernstein
AICP, Principal City Planner, Department of City Planning for City of Los Angeles Presented by Chase Campen Ken will talk about “Preserving Los Angeles,” the City’s historic preservation program and the work of the Office of Historic Resources, addressing designation of our Historic Preservation Overlay Zones (HPOZs) such as Hancock Park, designation of City Historic-Cultural Monuments, and our citywide historic resources survey, SurveyLA. He also oversees the Citywide Policy function in the Planning Department, which includes the update to the City’s General Plan, implementation of our Mobility Plan, affordable housing policy issues, and much more.
WHERE:
Wilshire Country Club 301 N Rossmore Ave Los Angeles, CA 90004
Ken Bernstein
WHEN:
Saturday, February 11, 2017 from 3-5 pm Cocktails & hors d’oeuvres served
Space is limited. Please RSVP to: larchmontliving@gmail.com or 323-762-2562 Event dress code details will be sent with reservation confirmation.
Chase Campen, The Family Realtor
CAL BRE #01323112
Larchmont Chronicle
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
3
Emergency motion saves Norton bungalows, for now By Billy Taylor Demolition of two apartment complexes that have potential to be named historiccultural monuments has been postponed due to an emergency City Council motion submitted Jan. 10 by 4th District Councilman David Ryu. The garden courtyard style bungalow apartments, located at 412-420 and 424-430 N. Norton Ave., which have architec-
tural characteristics of the Spanish Colonial Revival Style, were facing “imminent demolition,” according to Ryu’s motion. The Los Angeles Administrative Code provides that councilmembers may initiate consideration of a proposed site, building or structure as a HistoricCultural Monument (HCM). After a review and investigation, the Cultural Heritage Commission (CHC) will either approve
McAvoy on Preservation (Continued from page 2) idents, members of the entertainment industry, and the working class before graduating to single-family home ownership. A housing type that takes advantage of a central shared outdoor space, courts continue to provide affordable housing today. Several have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places in recent years. They are not uniformly located across the city, and those areas that possess them should plan for their continued existence. Planning procedure needed Councilman Ryu cannot be expected to make a separate motion on each of the worthy SurveyLA identified properties in his district. A procedure is needed whereby planning staff can incorporate Survey-
LA findings into the planning process before these resources are threatened. Our current procedures could allow many identified resources to be demolished before they are designated at the local, state or national level. Then the millions of dollars spent by The Getty and the city and the tens of thousands of man hours which created the inventory and the tips from the public about what to include will all have been for naught. Christy Johnson McAvoy, a former president of the Los Angeles Conservancy and the California Preservation Foundation, as well as an Advisor to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, founded Historic Resources Group in Hollywood.
or disapprove the council-initiated designation. Residents originally submitted an application for historic designation of the two properties to the CHC in August 2016, but due to the City Planning Department’s workload and individual absences in the department, the application has not yet been considered. It is scheduled for a hearing on Thurs., Feb. 2. Demolition permit The issue became time-sensitive after a notice was posted Dec. 9 that a demolition permit application was filed for both properties by the developer Wiseman Residential. The possibility of the eight buildings being knocked down before they could be considered historically significant inspired Karen Gilman, secretary of the Larchmont Village Neighborhood Association, to send an “urgent” message to local stakeholders asking them to “write and call to save the Norton Court properties!” Gilman urged neighbors to contact local politicians and city officials requesting that they intervene until the historic application is considered: “If we wait for [Feb. 2] without this appeal and intervention, these buildings will be gone; this developer is
ARCHITECT Leonard L. Jones designed the three-building, 12unit apartment complex at 412-420 N. Norton Ave. in 1926.
THE STRUCTURES at 424-430 N. Norton were built in 1924 as a five-building, 10-unit bungalow court.
notorious and fast.” Survey L.A., a recently completed years-long project of the City Planning Department and the J. Paul Getty Trust,
has previously described the architecture of the two neighboring complexes as “an excellent example of an intact 1920s bungalow court.”
4
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
PAPAL HONOR. Grove developer Rick Caruso, right, received the Papal Honor of Knight Commander in the Order of the Knights of St. Gregory the Great from Pope Francis last month at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. Knight Patrick Nally, left, bestowed the honor. The Order of St. Gregory the Great was established in 1831 and is one of the five Orders of Knighthood of the Holy See.
Photo by Bob Jimenez
Larchmont Chronicle
State of Greater Miracle Mile on Chamber agenda Hear about the “State of the Mile” at a Greater Miracle Mile Chamber of Commerce luncheon and forum Thurs., Feb. 9, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the El Rey Theatre, 5515 Wilshire Blvd. Rick Caruso, developer of the Grove and CEO of Caruso, is the keynote speaker. Chief curator at the Peters-
Mardi ‘Mutti Gras,’ at Farmers Market
Tired of humdrum plants? Are you looking for something spectacular for your garden?
E! T A D HE T E V SA Don’t miss
one day only
Hancock Park Garden Club
Celebrate Mardi Gras at the Farmers Market with food, music and a pet parade. Festivities take place the weekend of February 25-26 and Fat Tuesday Feb. 28. The free, family-friendly party will feature New Orleans staples of beads, beignets, Dixie beer and face painting. The Gumbo Pot will serve Cajun gumbo and jambalaya. See pets strut their finery at the Mutti Gras parade Saturday at noon. Prizes will be awarded for the best dressed canine King and Queen. The strolling Bear Brass Band plays Saturday noon to 3 p.m. Shakers for Peace and Joy, with Kids for Peace, perform 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., and Eddie Baytos and the Nervis Brothers play from 2 to 4 p.m. on the West Patio. Lisa Haley and the Zydekats take the stage on Sunday from 3 to 5:30 p.m. on the West Patio. Eddie Baytos & The Nervis Brothers return on Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. on the West Patio.
en Automotive Museum Leslie Kendall will give an audio/visual presentation of the Miracle Mile area from its beginnings as a sheep pasture. Metro officials will discuss Measure M and the Purple Line subway construction. Councilman David Ryu will also speak. The focus among the speakers will be “Where we were, where are we going and how are we getting there?” said Chamber executive director Meg McComb. The luncheon is $25 for members / $35 for non-members. RSVP at info@miraclemilechamber. org by Feb. 6.
Stroke certification
Good Samaritan Hospital, which operates in collaboration with the USC/Keck School of Medicine’s Department of Neurosciences, has received certification as a Comprehensive Stroke Center. The centers are considered the bestequipped hospitals in a given geographical area.
Pop up Plant Sale Saturday, March 4, 2017 from 9 - 3 pm at The Ebell’s Lucerne parking lot Shop and stay for garden talks packed with lots of information! the restoration of The Ebell’s historic garden hancockpark garden club.com
To find out what your home is worth, go to: valuations.aaroe.com/jillgalloway JILL GALLOWAY Estates Director, Sunset Strip 323.842.1980 Jill@JillGalloway.com JillGalloway.com Not listed in the MLS. This is not intended as a solicitation if your property is currently listed with another broker. CalBRE 01357870
New Listing in Larchmont, Hancock Park
437 N. Windsor Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90004 Approx. 2,800 sq ft / Built 1995 4 bed/ 4 bath
Offered at $1,650,000
Larchmont Chronicle
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
5
Victory against McMansions getting closer
Real Estate Sales*
SOLD: This residence at 139 N. Beachwood Dr. sold for $2,155,000.
Single-family homes 354 S. Lucerne Blvd. 120 N. Irving Blvd. 270 S. Windsor Blvd. 208 S. Arden Blvd. 139 N. Beachwood Dr. 513 N. Plymouth Blvd. 440 N. Citrus Ave. 420 S. Highland Ave. 540 N. Lucerne Blvd. 456 Westminster Ave. 722 S. Bronson Ave. 621 N. Mansfield Ave. 329 N. Windsor Blvd. 883 Crenshaw Blvd. 543 N. Irving Blvd. 122 S. Wilton Pl.
Victorious, is how neighbors described the outcome last month at the city Planning and Land Use Management (PLUM) Committee, after it approved the amended Baseline Mansionization Ordinance (BMO). “We have almost won the battle against mansionization,” said a triumphant Bob Eisele, vice president of the La Brea-Hancock Homeown-
ers Association. “When this is over, we’ll have to keep our eye on developers to make sure they comply with the new zoning, but we’ll have the full force of the city behind us if they don’t.” The amended BMO closes loopholes in the 2008 original that allowed developers to build homes considered too large for their lots. The City Council is expected to vote
Top 100 in Southern California Homes for an Era - Agents for a Lifetime
New - Coming Soon New - Coming Soon $3,480,000 3,100,000 2,940,000 2,734,000 2,155,000 1,812,000 1,699,000 1,695,000 1,655,000 1,575,000 1,410,000 1,293,000 1,274,800 920,000 875,000 845,000
on the ordinance later this month. At the Jan. 18 meeting, PLUM retained a .45 floorarea ratio of house-to-lot size. The not-so-good news, said Shelley Wagers, of nomoremcmansionsinlosangeles.org, is a garage exemption. "The garage exemption can still be debated and perhaps defeated by the City Council,” Eisele added.
New - For Lease
434 N Mansfield Ave
137 S Citrus Ave
8 BD/9 BA | 7,481 SF
3 BD/2 BA | 1,693 SF
3 BD/2 BA | $4,950 / Month
In Escrow
Great New Price
For Sale
838 N Doheny Dr #302
4841-4843 Elmwood Ave
2 BD/2 BA | 1,240 SF | $779,000
Duplex | 3,911 SF | $1,649,000
1049 - 1051 S Stanley Ave
176 S Orange Dr
Condominiums 4661 Wilshire Blvd., #204 737 S. Windsor Blvd., #304 4661 Wilshire Blvd., #105 651 Wilcox Ave., #1C 531 N. Rossmore Ave., #101 333 S. Wilton Pl., #10 750 S. Windsor Blvd., #1 4407 Francis Ave., #210
$1,250,000 1,070,000 900,000 780,000 685,000 660,000 600,000 415,000
* Selling prices for December 2016.
Naomi Hartman
Leah Brenner
323.860.4259
nhartman@coldwellbanker.com CalBRE# 00769979
Duplex | 1,956 SF | $1,595,000 323.860.4245
Members ~ Society of Excellence www.naomiandleah.com
lbrenner@coldwellbanker.com CalBRE# 00917665
©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals.
HANCOCK HOMES REALTY 501 N. Larchmont Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90004 www.hancockhomes.com | john@hancockhomes.com office 323.462.2748 | cell 213.924.2208
BRE #01848596 All information and material presented herein relating to measurements, calculations of area, condition of property, features of property, and school district is obtained from the Seller, Public Records and/or other sources. While these sources are deemed reliable, the information has not been verified by Broker/Agent and cannot be guaranteed as to its accuracy. All information should be independently verified through the appropriate professionals.
6
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
Larchmont Chronicle
Most enjoyable and most disappointing films of 2016 At the Movies with
Tony Medley The “Most Disappointing” are listed by rank of how much I loathed them with #1 the most loathsome. Both lists are
ot The Nd ry a n i r So O Restaurant Thai In LA LC0905
Gable’s role, a tense tale of modern warfare. 3. Our Kind of Traitor: An Eric Ambler-type thriller of an ordinary man caught in international intrigue highlighted by a boffo performance by Stellan Skarsgärd. 4. The Beatles: Eight Days A Week: The Touring Years: Full of beautiful music and tales of The Beatles’ touring days with archival interviews
Bogie’s Liquor
Chan Dara
WEST L.A. 310-479-4461 11940 W. Pico Blvd.
shorter than normal because it was a relatively bland year except that my most enjoyable list contains lots of films that would stand out in any year. Most enjoyable: 1. La La Land: Not only the best of this year; maybe the best of the decade. 2. Eye in the Sky: 1948’s “Command Decision” updated for the 21st century with Helen Mirren playing Clark
We Deliver
LARCHMONT 323-467-1052 310 N. Larchmont Blvd.
Open 7 Days Hours: Open 6 a.m. Close 2 a.m.
5753 Melrose Ave.
Call 323-469-1414
With AAA Travel... Members Get More! THE WESTIN MAUI RESORT & SPA 5 NIGHTS FROM
$1,286
1
INCLUDES AIRFARE! YOUR AAA Vacations® PACKAGE INCLUDES:
• Round trip air from Los Angeles, California to Kahului, Hawai`i • Five nights’ mountain view accommodations • 15% Spa Discount 2
ASK ABOUT RATES FROM YOUR HOME CITY!
Book a AAA Vacations ® Package and
GET $390 IN VALUE!
KIDS 17 AND YOUNGER STAY
FREE
3
AAA Vacations ® AMENITY
$100
ACTIVITY VOUCHER 4
DAILY BUFFET BREAKFAST FOR TWO
$290 VALUE 5
Molokini Crater, Maui
ASK YOUR AAA TRAVEL AGENT ABOUT THE MOST CURRENT PRICING AND OFFERS! CALL: 800.741.1641
VISIT: Your Local AAA Travel Agency
CLICK: AAA.com/Travelmore Rate is based on roundtrip air travel to/from Los Angeles, CA (LAX) and Kahului, Maui (OGG), and is per person, based on double occupancy in mountain view accommodations for check-in on April 25, 2017. Rates for other travel dates may vary. Rates, availability, terms, conditions and itinerary are subject to change. Certain restrictions apply. Rate shown includes service fees, government-imposed fees and taxes. Advertised rate does not include any applicable daily resort or facility fees payable directly to the hotel at check-out; such fee amounts will be advised at the time of booking. Airline tickets are non-refundable. Additional airline restrictions may apply, including, but not limited to, baggage charges for the first and second checked bag, advance purchase requirements, and an airline fee of up to $100 per change plus any applicable fare differential (certain changes may involve pre-notification deadlines). For baggage fees and other details, see www.iflybags.com. Rates involving roundtrip air transportation from other gateways may differ. Airline fees and policies vary and are subject to change without notice; please contact your ticketing airline for the latest information. Terms & Conditions apply. 215% spa discount applies to all treatments available on spa menu, excluding spa merchandise. Certain restrictions may apply. 3Kids stay free in same room as adults using existing bedding. Occupancy limits apply. 4Activity voucher does not apply to air/car only booking. Valid toward the purchase of a select optional activity. Not valid for hotel direct activity bookings. Minimum five night stay at participating AAA Vacations® properties required. 5Offer only valid for mountain view or ocean view accommodations. Valid on new bookings only. Airfare, taxes, surcharges, gratuities, transfers and excursions are additional unless otherwise indicated. Fuel surcharges, government taxes, other surcharges and deposit, payment and cancellation terms/conditions are subject to change without notice at any time. Rates quoted are per person, based on adult double occupancy unless otherwise stated. Cruise rates are capacity controlled. Rates, terms, conditions, availability and itinerary are subject to change without notice. Other airline restrictions, including, but not limited to baggage limitations and fees, standby policies and fees, non-refundable tickets and change fees with pre-flight notification deadlines may apply. Fees and policies vary among airlines without notice. Please contact the airline directly for details and answers to specific questions you may have. Certain restrictions may apply. AAA members must make advance reservations through AAA Travel to obtain Member Benefits and savings. Member Benefits may vary based on departure date. Unless otherwise stated, rate is accurate at time of printing and is subject to availability and change. Not responsible for errors or omissions. Your local AAA Club acts as an agent for Pleasant Holidays®. CTR #1016202-80. Copyright © 2016 Auto Club Services, LLC. All Rights Reserved. 1
©LC0216
Here are my lists of the most enjoyable ... and least enjoyable / most disappointing / most overrated films I saw during 2016. The negative category includes some films that, while not the worst, were disappointing or overrated, or, while enjoyable, had huge flaws. The positive category is just how much I enjoyed them, not rated as I would rate an Oscar winner.
with each of the Fab Four. 5. Harry Benson: Shoot First: Fascinating documentary about a celebrity photographer known for his shots of The Beatles, but also many more told by Harry himself and a myriad of others with anecdote after anecdote and unforgettable photos. 6. Patriots Day: Spectacular recreation of the Boston Marathon bombing. You may think you know what happened, but I was surprised. 7. Joan Rivers: Exit Laughing: Joan and others tell her story, and it’s a rollicking one. I can’t give it more than a 10, but if I could, I would! 8. Passengers: One of the better sci-fi films. 9. Café Society: Woody Allen keeps getting better with age. 10. Elle: Isabelle Huppert gives a tour de force in this “amoral” movie with a different view of an old subject. 11. Fastball: A film that no baseball fan should miss, including film clips of people like Walter Johnson I had never seen before. 12. Maggie’s Plan: The script for this modern tale is witty and the acting very good. 13. Snowden: If your mind is open and you haven’t already prejudged Snowden, it’s a very good film written and directed by Oliver Stone. 14. 13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi: Graphically captures all the gun fighting and the bombs, and the uncertainty of the fight because it was all done in the dark of night without really knowing what was going on and where the fighting was coming from. Worse, our guys kept expecting help that never came from the Obama Administration. 15. Denial: Highlighted by a terrific performance by Timothy Spall, this is a good courtroom drama that happens to be true. 16. Diary of a Chambermaid: They keep remaking this and this one is as good as the others, if not better. 17. The Girl on the Train: Not as good as the book, but still very good, indeed, although it would have been a lot better had Jason Bateman played one of the key roles. 18. A Bigger Splash: While not for everyone, I liked this stylish atmospheric tale of a rock singer and her extended family recuperating on the Italian volcanic island of Pantelleria. 19. Septembers of Shiraz: A tense film that captures the terror and unfairness of life in Iran shortly after the Islamic extremists took over in 1979 by concentrating on one Jewish family. (Please turn to page 15)
Larchmont Chronicle
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
Life brilliantly told in music, alternative magical universe The Lion is a musical memoir written and performed by Benjamin Scheuer. Mr. Scheuer sings and plays the Theater story of his difficult family Review life, a volatile by relationship Patricia with his faFoster Rye ther, a doomed romance, his recovery from a major illness among other life milestones. He is a superb musician, brilliantly playing six different and iconic guitars. His songs, while narrating his life, are eminently singable and unique: “Cookie-tin Banjo” about the instrument that his father taught him to play (the beginning of his musical education), the titular “The Lion” about his family, and many more. Although Mr. Scheuer captivates us from his first song, director Sean Daniels has layered and built this performance so that by the end of the 70-minute one-act, you are quite captivated by Mr. Scheuer’s life and are rooting for this talented performer. Through Sun., Feb. 19, Audrey Skirball Kenis Theater at the Geffen Playhouse, 10886 LeConte Ave., 310-208-5454, geffenplayhouse.org. 4 Stars ••• Heartsville High is in an alternate universe, one where homosexuality is the norm and heterosexuality is the taboo. This is the premise of Zanna, Don’t! Book, music and lyrics are by Tim Acito, with additional lyrics by Alexander Dinelaris. The titular Zanna (Jason Bornstein) is explained as a “Magical Matchmaker” who zaps (a fairy wand is involved) together various same-sex couples. When Steve (an engaging Jacob Zelonky) the quarterback and Kate (Jillian Easton) the captain of the Girl’s Intramural Mechanical Bull-Riding Team are attracted to each other, there’s a hitch in this alternate universe. The music and lyrics are keyed to the message of the evening as stated by director Lauren J Peters: “to love and not to judge others based on who they are or know themselves to be.” Peters (also credited with the scenic design) has kept the comedic pace tight and the eight-member cast that sing, dance and play a variety of roles, a cohesive group. The energetic choreography is by Michael Marchak. Through Sun., Feb. 5 Chromolume Theatre at the Attic, 5429 W. Washington Blvd. (between the 10 freeway and Hauser Blvd.), 323-205-1617, 3 Stars crtheatre.com ••• The Last Vig, written and directed by David Varriale, is set in 2014, although it feels
more like the 1960s. Big Joe (Burt Young of “Rocky” fame) is an aging mob boss reduced to a desk in the seedy back room of a Chinese restaurant in Astoria, New York. (Vig is defined as the percentage charged by a bookmaker for a bet.) With the help of Bocce (Ben Adams), his young hip-hop assistant, Joe is dealing with the disappearance of his courier to Atlantic City carrying $100,000 in casino chips. There is a lot of discussion, some of it with restaurant owner Paul Li (Clint Jung), about rat infestation in the restaurant, types of salads, the back room being wired/bugged, etc. before we (Please turn to page 14)
28th A N N UAL FAR M E RS MAR K E T
M A R DI G R A S
SAT. & SUN. FE BRUARY 25-26 & FAT TU ES. , F E BRUARY 28 SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25
Mutti Gras Pet Parade & Costume Contest w/ The Dog Bakery 12–1pm Plaza Bear Brass Band 12–3pm Strolling Shakers for Peace & Joy w/ Kids for Peace 1:30 – 4:30pm Plaza Eddie Baytos & The Nervis Bros 2–4pm West Patio The Zydeco Mudbugs 2:30 – 4:30pm Plaza California Feetwarmers 5–7pm West Patio
SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 26
The Mudbug Brass Band 12–3pm Strolling Lisa Haley & the Zydekats 2:30 –5:30pm West Patio
FAT TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28 Eddie Baytos & The Nervis Bros 6–9pm West Patio Schedule is subject to change.
FREE ! 6333 W. THIRD ST. • LOS ANGELES 323.933.9211 • FARMERSMARKETLA.COM /FARMERSMARKETLA Insta
7
8
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
Larchmont Chronicle
Two small, unassuming restaurants that deserve a try There are a few obvious restaurant neighborhoods, where clusters of bars and bistros brighten the night. Third and Beverly. DTLA. Santa Monica. One might not expect to find a brilliant three-course prix fixe in a tired mini mall just east of a 101 on-ramp, but there it is. Papilles. A tasty, unassuming little foodie hideaway whose name actually translates as “taste buds.”
Every evening the menu changes. There are two or three options each for firsts, mains and desserts. Base price is $38, but at least half the menu is at an up-change, so it’s possible to spend as much as $60 or so before wine. On the other hand, they allow á la carte ordering, which is a nice option. My husband and I shared the carrot ginger veloute with
RESTAURANT & COCKTAILS
Lunch & Dinner Every Day of the Year
3357 Wilshire Blvd. • 213-385-7275
©LC 0406
Restaurant Hours: Mon. - Tues. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Wed. - Sat. 11 a.m. to midnight Sun. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Bar Open till 1:00 a.m. Mon.-Thurs. ~ 1:30 a.m. Fri., & Sat.
pickled ginger — a thick, luscious pureed soup — and the butter lettuce, market vegetables and pomegranate salad with On the green godMenu dess dressing, by which was Helene crisp, brisk Seifer and really nice alongside the unctuous soup. Entree choices were pork loin, with broccolini, eggplant and honey soy, or hanger steak, hedgehog mushrooms, and celery root for $3 more (which he ordered), and I got the barramundi with fennel and pine nuts for $5 additional. Both were superb. I especially appreciated the crispy fish skin and the braised pine nuts. Dessert was a raspberry pavlova or a cheese plate with three wonderful cheeses for
an additional $8. The dessert meringue melted in one’s mouth, though I prefer fresh fruit to the raspberry sauce this one came with. Maybe it’s significant that Chef Jordan Rosas is described as being “complex and creative. He loves urban foraging and riding his Ducati.” There is no wine list. The knowledgeable wait-staff will pluck a couple of bottles off the shelf to recommend. Limited wine by the glass and beer. Papilles, 6221 Franklin Ave., 323-872-2028. • • • When I lived back East, I went out for Sunday morning dim sum fairly often. Half the fun was trying to flag
down the carts zipping by to grab steaming shrimp balls and roasted pork buns before someone else did. I no longer relegate dim sum to weekend mornings; nor do I feel that the food-grabbing battle is the point. I just want to civilly order what sounds good and call it a day. Bao Dim Sum House is just the place for that. Go with a few people to facilitate sharing and order up a bunch of tasty treats. Of course you have to get the juicy pork dumplings ($6.50 for four). Pretty good. Miso chicken and chives shumai (four pieces for $6.50)? Yes! And quite yummy. Spicy shrimp dumplings, chicken and spinach potstickers, crystal shrimp dumplings, sauteed pea shoots in garlic. For $5.95 to $9.95 a plate, it feels reasonable to keep ‘em coming, and the only dud was the tasteless (Please turn to page 12)
The
Maven arketing
by Pam Rudy
Happy Valentine’s Day to All Our Advertisers & Readers! February is Valentine’s Day month. This is the time to make your ad a little softer with appropriate graphics, text and color. Seasonal advertising is a benefit to the reader and to your business. It reminds readers of the upcoming holiday and suggests that they once again resume the “consumer” identity that can boost businesses’ bottom line.
“ A wonderfully life-affirming piece of theatre... touchingly and gloriously imaginative.”
Whether you are offering goods or ser vices, make your ad seasonally appropriate and reflect the theme of the upcoming holiday. If your ad is in color, use the colors of the season. If not in color, use graphics that suggest the season.
KNEEHIGH IN ASSOCIATION WITH BIRMINGHAM REPERTORY THEATRE & BERKELEY REPERTORY THEATRE PRESENT
ADAPTED BY Michael Morpurgo
and Emma Rice
FEBRUARY 9 - MARCH 5, 2017 CONNECT WITH US:
310.746.4000 | TheWallis.org/946
Some businesses simply don’t lend themselves in their nature to seasonal messages or graphics. Example: a school will not need seasonal advertising unless they are hosting a Holiday event at the school. However, a florist or candy store should make the best of this Valentine holiday with their ad colors and graphics. Seasonal or not, remember to Market, Market, Market your business on a regular & frequent basis! Contact Pam at The Larchmont Chronicle 323-462-2241 ext. 11
©LC0217
- The Times
Greet the reader with a seasonal wish. It will make them feel special and reinforces that your business is thinking about them. As you read the ads in this February issue, please note how many of the advertisers have wisely done this.
Larchmont Chronicle
FEBRUARY 2017
MUSEUM ROW
SECTION TWO
9
library calendar
Ruscha-inspired art; Super Bowl Classes, groups, activities chase away winter 'blahs' PETERSEN AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM—"The Eagles Have Landed: Dan Gurney's All American Racers, Tribute to Dan Gurney" opening night is Fri., Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. • "Pictures of Car Parts (After Ed Ruscha)," works Vik Muniz, ends April 9. 6060 Wilshire Blvd., 323903-2277; petersen.org. ZIMMER CHILDREN'S MUSEUM—Sunday events from 2 to 4 p.m. include: Make pendants and pom poms on Super Bowl Sunday Feb. 5; pass laws for President's Day Feb. 19, and make masks and hear jazz for Mardi Gras Feb. 26. 6505 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 100; 323-761-8984; zimmermuseum.org. JAPAN FOUNDATION— Japanema: films screen the second and fourth Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. Free. 5700 Wilshire Blvd., 323761-7510; jflalc.org. LOS ANGELES MUSEUM CAUST— OF THE HOLO Meet Dr. Joel Dimsdale, author of "Anatomy of Malice: The Enigma of the Nazi War Criminals," Feb. 5 at 3 p.m. Pan Pacific Park, 100 S. Grove Dr., 323-651-3704; lamoth.
org. Always free. CRAFT AND FOLK ART MUSEUM—Tiny House (portable, solar, 10'x7') pre-build party with Derek Diedricksen is Fri., Feb. 3 from 7 to 10 p.m., $30/$25 members. • "Focus Iran 2: Contemporary Photography and Video" opens Fri., Jan. 27 from 7 to 10 p.m. "Chapters: Book Arts In Southern California" opens Sun., Jan. 29. 5814 Wilshire Blvd., 323937-4230; cafam.org; free on Sundays. LA BREA TAR PITS & MUSEUM—Sleepovers in the museum are March 3 and 11. Register online. 5801 Wilshire Blvd., 323934-PAGE; tarpits.org. KOREAN CULTURAL CENTER—Movie night is Thurs., Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. Free. 5505 Wilshire Blvd., 323936-7141; kccla.org. LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART—"MoholyNagy: Future Present" opens Sun. Feb. 12. Ends June 18. • "The Inner Eye: Vision and Transcendence in African Arts" opens Sun., Feb. 26. Ends July 9. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., 323857-6000; lacma.org.
FAIRFAX LIBRARY 161 S. Gardner St. 323-936-6191 Children Lego animation: Thurs., Feb. 9 at 4 p.m. Teens SAT review: Sat., Feb. 11 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. SAT practice test: Sat., Feb. 18 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Adults Support pals: Positive thinking, Sat., Feb. 4 at 2 p.m. MS support group: Thurs., Feb. 16 at 6 p.m. Art of meditation: Sat., Feb. 25 from 2 to 3 p.m. MEMORIAL LIBRARY 4625 W. Olympic Blvd. 323-938-2732 Children Blue Submarine: Live ocean creatures Wed., Feb. 15, 4 p.m. Teens Teen program: Mondays Feb. 6, 13 and 27 at 4 p.m. Adults LA Made: Comedian Beth Lapides Thurs., Feb. 9, 6:30 p.m. FREMONT LIBRARY 6121 Melrose Ave. 323-962-3521 Children Harry Potter party: Wed., Feb. 1 at 4 p.m. Kids read to therapy dogs:
Thurs., Feb. 23 at 4 p.m. Teens Valentine craft: Tues., Feb. 14 at 3:30 p.m. Adults Alzheimer's support group: Mondays Feb. 13 and 27, 10:15 to 11:45 a.m.
Featured Listings for the Month of February by
Movie night: Tues., Feb. 28 at 6 p.m. Includes popcorn. WILSHIRE LIBRARY 149 N. St. Andrews Place 323-957-4550 Children E-textile program: Tuesdays Feb. 9 and 23, 3:30 to 5:30 p.m.
JACKIE SMITH 213.494.7736 JSmith@TheAgencyRE.com
une
hn
SOLD
267 S. Windsor Blvd. $2,700,000
IN ESCROW
417 S. Norton Ave. $1,800,000
June Ahn
International President’s Elite CalBRE: 01188513
cell: 323.855.5558 juneahn21@gmail.com
Hancock Park South Office 119 N. Larchmont Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90004
©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals.
10
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
Larchmont Chronicle
Season finale at Ebell; art show preview a highlight It was a starry Saturday night in December, when 200 members and their guests gathered at The Ebell of Los Angeles for a gourmet dinner and dancing in the Grand Lounge. Spotted among the glittering were Ebell president Loyce Braun and husband Joe, Jan-
na and Jim Harris, Amy Sinclair and Edward Muldoon, and Sharon Lawrence Apostle with husband Dr. Tom Apostle and Tom’s parents Gerri and James Apostle. The end of the holiday season was celebrated at the home of Suz and Peter Lan-
day December 29. There was a lush buffet of beef tenderloin, marinated shrimp, and trifle. Medieval French carols were performed on a bagpipezampogna and a hurdy-gurdy. Neighbors and friends included Mary and Michael Nelson, Dennee and Ubaldo Marsan, Beate
PermaStone Collection: ™
A Floor ThAT EvEryonE will lovE! PermStone tiles are designed with the stunningly natural look and feel of ceramic and stone. Designs are available in 16” x 16” tiles with a two-sided ® 1/8” or 1/4” Groutfit , Standard Grout or Groutless. All NAFCO products are protected with our superior wear resistance of Tritonite.™
Y
LINOLEUM CITY
More than 66 years on Route 66! LINOLEUM Carpet • Vinyl • Hardwood FloorsCITY • Linoleum Tile • Laminate Floors • Cork • Carpet Runners
©LC0215
Prices so low you’ll be floored! We understand your needs and deliver promptly. Professionally installed or Do-It-Yourself 4849 Santa Monica Blvd. • (323) 469-0063
and
AFFORDABLE SOLAR ELECTRICITY SOLAR WATER HEATING SYSTEMS from SUSTAINABILITY IS DESIGNED,INC
HANCOCK PARK‐LARCHMONT VILLAGE‐WINDSOR SQUARE‐FREMONT PLACE‐MIRACLE MILE
MAKE THE SWITCH TO CLEAN, GREEN SOLAR ! DECLARE YOUR INDEPENDENCE FROM THE TYRANNY OF HIGH ENERGY BILLS !
REDUCE YOUR CURRENT ENERGY COSTS BY 70% or MORE SAVINGS A 7 KILOWATT SYSTEM CAN SAVE $70,000 OR MORE. TAX FREE! VALUE THE MONEY YOU PAY LADWP OVER THE NEXT 5 TO 7 YEARS WILL BUY 25+ YEARS OF SOLAR ENERGY. BUY SOLAR AND GET THE BEST VALUE! REPLACE HIGH COST DIRTY UTILITY POWER WITH LOW COST CLEAN SOLAR POWER INVESTMENT YOUR SOLAR INVESTMENT INCREASES THE VALUE OF YOUR HOME FINANCE NO MONEY DOWN. LOW INTEREST RATES. NO PAYMENTS FOR UP TO 17 MONTHS! ADOPTING SOLAR POWER IS A NO BRAINER. CLEANER ! CHEAPER ! BETTER ! FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO GET STARTED, CONTACT WWW.SUSTAINABILITYISDESIGNED.NET SIDDESIGN1@GMAIL.COM 323.356.5328 We are local and know your neighborhood. CA LIC 949004
and Neil McDermott, Christy and Stephen McAvoy, Sandy and Bill Boeck, Betsy and Chris Blakely, Irina and Jim Gibbons, Fluff and Sandy McLean, Mary
Around the Town
SEASON’S END party hosts were Peter and Suz Landay.
with
Patty Hill E. Nichols, Gina and Marielle Riberi, Alyce and Edgar Winston, Tana Norris, Rafael de Marchena, Jaunita Kempe, Jane Gilman, Patricia Foster Rye, Barb and Joe Macrum, Marcella Ruble, Connie Richey, Julie Dumont, and Amy and John White with son Ian and daughter Sadie. Hostess gifts, per Suz’s request, were donations to the Jeffery Foundation, which provides services to children with special needs. • • • January’s highlight for the last 22 years has been the Los Angeles Art Show. This year, the show began with a private preview Jan. 11. This is one of the country’s largest art shows featuring world-class contemporary art, thought-provoking social commentary and immersive live performance installations. Actress Emma Roberts hosted the opening evening of creativity and philanthropy that gave attendees a sneak peek of works from more than 110 galleries. All while the attendees enjoyed haute cuisine prepared by James Beard Award winner Jeffrey Nimer, and hors d’oeuvre from over 20 select restaurants. (Please turn to page 11)
DENNEE AND UBALDO MARSAN at the Landays’.
CELEBRATING at the Landay party were Patricia Rye, Yvonne Cazier, Fluff McLean.
LOS ANGELES ART SHOW opening night attendees Courtney Carroll, Michael Sourapas and Sela Sourapas
COLLETTE AMIN and Jerey Ojeah supported the Los Angeles Art Show opening night.
Larchmont Chronicle
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
11
Las Madrinas debutantes honored at ball In December, Las Madrinas honored families and their daughters for their service to the Southern California community and Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA). Thirty-one young women were presented at the annual Debutante Ball at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. More than 850 people filled the International Ballroom to celebrate with the debutantes
and the members of Las Madrinas (“The Godmothers”). President Mrs. Jon Warren Newby welcomed the families and guests and thanked everyone for joining with Las Madrinas in supporting the research programs at CHLA, including the group’s current project, a $5 million pledge to fund The Las Madrinas Pediatric Simulation Research Laboratory En-
dowment. Serving on the Debutante Committee was Mrs. Michael Floyd Wright, Windsor Square. Las Madrinas began supporting CHLA in 1933. DEBUTANTES support Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
Discover the Park La Brea Lifestyle
Masselin, a small village in the big city, threw a party
ON MASSELIN, l to r, Ken Titley, Dena Berkin, Fran Hentz and John Schunhoff-host.
small village within the large impersonal city. Carrie Muller is a resident of Masselin Ave., where she regularly updates the group’s block directory.
AROUND THE TOWN (Continued from page 10) Some of the Larchmontians darting in and out of the numerous installations were Lola Pellicer, Kareisha Phillips, Jerey Ojeah, Collette Amin, and Michael Sourapas with daughter Sela and niece Courtney Carroll. Proceeds for the night supported the very worthy St. Jude Children’s Hospital, where no family ever receives a bill. Hey, that is what we call TCK; taking care of kids. And that’s the chat…
Leasing Office 6200 West 3rd St. 877-418-7027 parklabrea.com
24/ 7 ARMED PATROL & RESPONSE
Setting the Standard in Residential Security
Koontz
“The hardware STore” formerly “Larchmont Hardware”
Wishing All Our Good Larchmont Friends A Happy Valentine’s Day! It’s February and Valentine’s Day. We have Heart shaped cookie cutter sets. We have “heart” baking pans. We have the most beautiful “Waechtersbach” plates and bowls and serving pieces in brilliant red, companies from Germany. Designed provide February istoalso a great month for cleaning. You know about the new “E” cloths with 1.6 million cleaning fibers per square inch. They a safe and secure clean withenvironment no chemicals needed. We have over 10 different kinds for living cleaning everything Call us today! from stainless steel to glass to electronics. We have 50 different kinds of the new “led” bulbs in different 866-357-1772 wattages and styles, including low voltage bulbs and dimmable bulbs. SSA Group, Plus, we Security have the new faucetInc. filter which fits in the palm of your hand and just screws onto the faucet. Setting the Standard in Home Security Patrol Come visit us and take 20% off any one item as our good, loyal Armed Patrol & Response Larchmont customer. Happy February. SSA
• Manned by active off-duty licensed law enforcement officers • 24-7 direct contact with patrol officer who never leaves the area • Liaison with local law enforcement agencies • Responds to all alarm monitoring companies • 2-3 minute average response to call for service PROTECTING LOS ANGELES NEIGHBORHOODS SINCE 1991
LC608
8914 SantaInc. Blvd.• 310-652-0123 Security Group, 310-652-0123 •Monica 8914 Santa Monica Boulevard www.koontz.com DESIGNED PROVIDE A between San TO Vicente and Robertson in West Hollywood Hours: SAFE AND 8am–7pm, SECURE Sat 8am–5:30pm, Sun 10am–5pm Weekdays: M-F: 8am - 7pm, Sat: 8am - 5:30pm, Sun: 10am - 5pm LIVING ©LC0216
• Owned & operated by retired LAPD Supervisors
Call us today (866) 357-1772 • www.ssa-securitygroup.com
©LC0916
Residents of the 800-900 block of Masselin Ave. joined together for their 36th annual Progressive Holiday Party on a rainy eve in December. By Carrie Muller We started at the home of John Schunhoff and Ken Titley for drinks, appetizers and a fabulous dinner. This is a pot luck, but anyone would think it is catered by a famous chef, since the dishes are beautiful, varied and delicious. At the home of Fran Hentz, the tables were filled with cakes, pies, and cookies. We sang songs of the holiday season as we nibbled on the delicious desserts. Our very first holiday party 36 years ago was a dessert gettogether, and the neighbors enjoyed it so much, the tradition of a progressive dinner party began. We added to it an annual July 4th block party. Our block directory is distributed each year by Ellen Ehrlich. Block coordinator Dena Berkin makes sure our parties are organized beautifully and take place without a hitch every year. And, 2016 was no exception. We create a safer atmosphere on our block by knowing each other and caring about each other. We are very much like a
12
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
Larchmont Chronicle
All roads — and world of organics — lead to the neighborhood Because “everything is related to everything else” — at least that’s the answer, perhaps apocryphal, that Buckminster Fuller gave to his students in response to the question of why he took three hours to answer a single question. So bear with me while I attempt to connect the dots between the thick green “broth” that I just had for breakfast and a few legendary people in and around Hollywood — and our neighborhood. Hal Bieler is the link. Dr. Harold Bieler (18991983) began practicing medicine in 1916, first in West Virginia, then in Idaho, later in
Pasadena, followed by a long stretch in Capistrano Beach. According to his blockbuster book, “Food Is Your Best Medicine” (1965), he was convinced by one of his professors of the value of diet-based therapies for illness and for health. (The professor had witnessed Bieler suffering a serious asthma attack; on his advice, Bieler cured himself with diet.) I’m neither a biochemist nor a physician, so if you’re interested in his approach, you’ll have to make up your own mind. But what I am is a close reader, and 20 years ago, when I read “From the Journals of
Lipson
plumbing, inc.
Home Ground by
Paula Panich
M. F. K. Fisher” (ca. 1993), I was particularly struck by references to “Hal,” especially in the 1940-1941 journal entries from Hemet when her second husband, Dillwyn Parrish, was dying from Buerger’s disease: “We have lived pretty much as Hal prescribed for about nine months now, and he says that he sees great improvement …” (March 1940); “I called Hal at 8:00 feeling that he might be away for the Labor Day weekend …” (September 1940). Years later, in another book, I learned that the actress Gloria Stuart, a lifelong friend of Fisher’s, also was a patient of
Run to Remember at Grove Feb. 12
“Your Neighborhood Plumbers”
©LC0117
L to R: Simon, Mark, Donny, Victor, Bob, Pete, Zeb, Mundo, Kris, Matt, Bronco, and Alicia
Celebrating 41 Years on Larchmont
323-469-2395 148 N. Larchmont Blvd. • lipsonplumbing@gmail.com LIC.# 481793
INSURED
Z
ZAVALA ELECTRIC Call 818.500.7778 For immediate installation
Family-Run
Guaranteed Excellence State Lic. #C-10 556059
"GRAMS," aka Gloria Swanson, in 1921.
Anderson said she still makes the broth when she is feeling fatigued: 1 cup green beans, chopped; 1 cup celery stalks, chopped; 1 cup zucchini, chopped. Add water to cover, cook until soft, then blend. (All ingredients organic, of course, and, sorry, no salt.) After reading a few foodblog entries on the subject (the broth still has a lively existence online), I added a handful of organic flat-leaf parsley to the mix. Have been receiving a few divine signals lately — so why not? A cupful three times a day. I rather like it.
Over 50 years
Staff Experts Provide Personal Service to Select the Ideal Flooring for Your Home
(Continued from page 8) scallion pancakes. This must be the inspiration for the small shared plates concept! Full bar. Bao Dim Sum House, 8256 Beverly Blvd., 323-655-6556. Contact Helene at onthemenu@larchmontchronicle.com.
New Shipment of exciting Wool Carpets In Stock at
Special Prices ©LC0310
Serving All Larchmont Hancock Park & Wilshire Communities
form, but writes that potassium-rich vegetables “supply the alkaline needs of the pancreas and salivary glands.”
Your Neighborhood Flooring Choice for Custom Area Rugs to Custom Installations
On the Menu
LC0509
• Complete Electrical • Service and Repair • Residential • Commercial • Bonded Insured
A half-marathon and a 10K run to honor fallen police and fire officers and other first responders are set for Sun., Feb. 12 at The Grove, 189 The Grove Dr. The Run to Remember event begins at 7 a.m. Red carpet arrivals commence at 6:20 a.m. Attendees include LAPD Chief Charlie Beck, LAFD Chief Ralph Terrazas, City Controller Ron Galperin and Councilmen David Ryu, Paul Koretz and Mitch O’Farrell. The second annual event will be emceed by Mario Lopez. Sponsors include Paramount Studios. The event is modeled after the Boston Run to Remember. Register at runtorememberla.org.
Dr. Bieler’s, as was another Fisher friend, the librarian and writer, Lawrence Clark Powell. Gloria Swanson But, likely, Dr. Bieler’s bestknown patient and advocate was Gloria Swanson, a longtime devotee of health, organics, and careful diet. “Dr. Bieler taught me in 1927 that your body is the direct result of what you eat as well as what you don’t eat. Every day I live merely reinforces his lessons,” she wrote. Hancock Park resident Brooke Anderson is a granddaughter of Gloria Swanson. “Dr. Bieler was a huge influence on my grandmother, from her twenties on. In my life and that of my mother’s (née Gloria Swanson Somborn), we were drenched in the world of organics — fruits and vegetables in particular, and also with Alta Dena products from raw milk. “Grams (as I called her) was obsessive about food and diet, all of which she learned from Bieler. ‘I know my body,’ she said. ‘I don’t stuff it full of bad food. If I have a pain somewhere … pain, as Hal Bieler told me in 1927, is a divine signal, telling you to take care of yourself with proper diet.’” “Bieler’s broth” was a staple of Gloria Swanson’s household as well of that of her daughter, and later of Brooke Anderson. In his book, Bieler does not present the broth in recipe
Carpet • Linoleum • Hardwood • Vinyl 323•934•7282 7815 Beverly Blvd. • Lestercarpet.com
Are Your Gutters and Downspouts Ready for the Rainy Season?
Brian Brady •
(213) 910-0980
www.comfzonehvac.com
Lic. # 949871 ©LC0216
© LMC 1103
Local Hancock Park resident for over 25 years, specializes in gutter cleaning and repair.
Larchmont Chronicle
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
13
Responding to a reverse, which is played often in modern bridge A reverse is when opener bids a suit at the 2 level that is higher ranking than the suit that she opened at the 1 level. Example: You open 1 Club. Your partner responds 1 Spade. You bid 2 Diamonds. Diamonds is higher ranking than Clubs, and you have bid them at the 2 level, so you have reversed. It also promises more cards in your first bid suit than in your second, either 5-4 or 6-5. A reverse promises that you have at least 17 high card points (HCP) and is forcing on your partner for one round. In other words, if you reverse, your partner must bid again, no matter how weak her hand. In today’s modern bridge, almost everybody plays reverses. As a caveat, if your hand is 6-5, you need only an opening hand to reverse and you show your hand by bidding the second suit twice, for example, you are South: South West North East 1C P 1H P 2D* P 2N P 3D** * Reverse ** Shows 6 Clubs and 5 Diamonds and at least 13 HCP. When inexperienced play-
Bridge Matters by
Grand Slam ers have a five-card major and a six-card minor, they often open the bidding with the fivecard major. This is a mistake because once you do that, you can never accurately describe your hand. Although there
might be a few rare exceptions, you should always open the bidding with your longest suit. The difficult question is, what do you rebid when your partner has reversed (and most reverses involve a five-card suit and a four-card suit)? Here’s a hand that arose recently: North ♠ 853 ♥ KJ5 ♦ AJ7 ♣ T953
Here’s the bidding: South West North East P 1N P 1C 2D* P ? ? * Reverse What’s your call? You have to bid again and you have a pretty good hand. Partner has reversed, showing at least 17 HCP and you have 9 HCP. You should have game somewhere, but where? Obviously no trump is
where you want to be, but you don’t know where partner’s points are. This is where communication in bidding arises. You should show partner that you have a stopper in Hearts with your KJ5 by bidding 2H. Even though you only have three Hearts, partner knows you don’t have 4 or more because you bypassed Hearts to bid 1N. If partner has the other suit stopped (Spades), she can bid 3N. (Please turn to page 15)
14
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
Larchmont Chronicle
Slice of Hawaii on Lucerne, a win-win for you and wildlife By Suzan Filipek Darren Eminian’s home on N. Lucerne Blvd. is a nature
ALAKAZAM UPHOLSTERY & DRAPERY Every Style Sofas, Chairs, Slipcovers Replace Weather-proof Lining Broad Selection of Fabrics Draperies & Roman Shades
HIGHEST QUALITY WORKSMANSHIP
310-491-8409 West Hollywood
©LC0716
Call Rosie for FREE Estimate
lover’s delight, a field laboratory of sorts, where 300 hibiscus plants bloom year round. It’s been six years since Eminian hung up his suit from years of working in the banking and insurance industry to begin his research in how best to grow the colorful flowers. His efforts paid off, judging from his lush front yard, which is a riot of color, and, he recently launched his landscape gardening business, aptly called, Colorlicious Hibiscus Gardens. It’s no surprise his front and back yards are a nod to Hawaii — it’s a frequent vacation destination for Eminian and his wife Aida. (Her parents, Jack Bezian and Dr. Sylvia Bezian, are also longtime Larchmont Village residents.) After returning from one trip to the islands about 10 years ago, the Lucerne Blvd. couple agreed to nix their dull dogwood hedges for the showy flowers they admire on their travels. Eminian started with a few “exotic fancy hibiscus” plants
HIBISCUS FLOWERS bloom on Lucerne year ‘round. “Everyday is an exciting one here,” says Darren Eminian, who has got to know the hummingbirds and other visitors drawn to his yard.
from supplier Hidden Valley Hibiscus. Their blooms grow up to 10 inches, about the size of a dinner plate, and while from the tropics, they thrive along the Southern California coastal plains, from Santa Barbara to the Mexican border. “They have huge blooms with amazing combinations of colors that no other plant can compare to,” says Eminian, holding one of the trumpet-shaped flowers, its petals a burst of shades of burgundy and red. “Every day people stop and go crazy over my blooms. Most people just love flowers… You know you have something special when a group of teen skateboarders go down the sidewalk in full teen conversation and stop, turn around and go back to look at the flowers,” he adds proudly. Eminian experimented with
We Provide Expert Customer Assistance!
volcanic soils, drainage and fertilizer. While hardy, the hibiscus plants are not easy to grow, but they are drought friendly and require little water, a few minutes a week on a drip. “Once established, they do well on their own,” he says. They also do well with other drought-friendly species, including citrus trees. Eminian is not a fan of removing green landscapes and lawns for what he calls a short-term fix in water conservation. “Long term it may actually increase water usage as Los Angeles turns into a heat island and loss of water reten-
Theater Review (Continued from page 7)
get to the wrap-up of the problem. Joe also talks by phone with his wife who is at home suffering from gout. Florida is on the horizon as a retirement destination. Joe eventually calls on Jimmy “The Fixer” D. (Gareth Williams) to intercede with the
tion increases dramatically.” The area’s ecosystem also suffers, he says. “Have you ever seen a mother hummingbird feed on grass gnats that she then gives to her chicks in a nest? Without lawns, no gnats, no food source, no hummingbirds. The chicks need more than nectar to grow quickly enough to leave the nest before the mother abandons them.” There’s no ecosystem problem on this little plot on Lucerne, where swallows swoop down daily. They feast on the aphids, explains Eminian, as do lady bugs and several hummingbirds that call his garden home. “I think it is very exciting that this was created and developed right here in Larchmont Village. My tiny property, which was meant to be part of the Beverly Hills Freeway (referring to a state plan in the 1960s), has been a field laboratory… “My intent is to show that residents of Larchmont Village like myself are always very concerned and involved with our neighborhood and how to improve it now and for many years to come.” Colorlicioushibiscusgardens.com casinos. When Detective Ray Price (Bruce Nozick) arrives and demands a payoff for his silence, the conclusion of the play is inevitable. Set designer Joel Daavid has created a perfect, detail-packed tacky back room. Through Sun., Feb. 19, Zephyr Theatre, 7456 Melrose Ave., 323-960-7712, thelastvig.com. 3 Stars
Your local roofer at the same location for over 80 years.
We Now Offer Solar!
“Experience does make a difference. Customer satisfaction will bring you back to our
Residential & Commercial
10% OFF
YOUR PURCHASE
323-469-2981 • supremeroofing.net 1015 N. Gower St., 90038
“BEST Fabric Store” - LA Magazine
• Maintenance • Irrigation
Mon-Sat • 9am – 5pm
Call Jesse Medellin
©LC0117
323.931.8148 611 S. La Brea Ave. • Private Parking Lot diamondfoamandfabric.com
• Pruning • Construction
323-506-6589 Medellin.cal@gmail.com
©LC1015
MENTION THIS AD TO RECEIVE
© LC 1113
• Exclusive Outdoor & Eco-friendly fabrics • Quality linen & specialty fabrics • On-site upholstery, draperies & custom cushions
Lic.#386172
FULL SERVICE COMPANY.
Fabulous Fabric Selection Includes ….
Larchmont Chronicle
FEBRUARY 2017
SECTION TWO
15
A ‘leap’ was needed to fix errors in Roman calendar
(Continued from page 6) 20. Deepwater Horizon: A real eye-opener with a great performance by John Malkovich (no surprise there) and some astounding special effects. Most disappointing: 1. Rules Don’t Apply: An embarrassment. 2. Jackie: A disgrace. 3. Absolutely Fabulous: Absolutely awful. 4. Neighbors 2: Sorority Rising: One of the most disgusting, crude pieces of drivel ever committed to the silver screen. But if anyone could do it, Seth Rogen is the man. 5. Equity: “…directed, written, produced, and financed by the women of Wall Street.” I won’t be investing in any of their IPOs. 6. Genius: Stupid. 7. Deadpool: Apparently meant as ‘70s TV PI James Rockford as a superhero, obviously aimed at the intellect of a 13-year-old boy. 8. Kevin Hart: What Now?:
Plumbing & Heating Company Serving the area since 1931 License #955742
SPECIALISTS IN: Water Heaters repiping Furnaces Leak Detection trencHLess seWer repair
©LC0811
(323) 935-1255 24-Hour Emergency Service 1355 South LaBrea Ave. • Los Angeles, CA 90019
DeaDline For the
march 2017 iSSue iS fri., february 17, 2017.
opportunity SEEKING
Classified advertising seCtion Manager
18th century, when 12 or more persons are engaged in rioting it is the duty of the local magistrates to read a document ordering them to disperse in the Queen’s (or King’s) name. Anyone who obstructs or continues to riot for one hour afterwards is guilty of a felony. Such a proclamation is recited
Bridge Matters (Continued from page 13) Here is the actual hand: North ♠ 853 ♥ KJ5 ♦ AJ7 ♣ T953 West East ♠ AQ972 ♠ T6 ♥ QT964 ♥ 8732 ♦ Q5 ♦ T843 ♣ KJ ♣ 84 South ♠ KJ4 ♥A ♦ K962 ♣ AQ762
0706
Hopefully, nothing. 9. The Meddler: Susan Sarandon hits rock bottom and takes J.K. Simmons with her. Maybe she really is this annoying. 10. Miles Ahead: With fans like director / star Don Cheadle, Miles Davis didn’t need any enemies. 11. Ride Along 2: As bad as the first one, which one would have thought impossible. 12. Suicide Squad: This remake of The Dirty Dozen for the 21st century doesn’t say much for the 21st century. 13. Mother’s Day: So bad even the laugh shills didn’t laugh. 14. The Boss: A personal note to Melissa McCarthy. Forget writing, directing, and producing. Let those be done by people with those talents. Stick with acting. That worked for Cary Grant and Irene Dunne and the other comedians of Hollywood past. It will work for you, too. 15. The Magnificent Seven: You don’t pull at Superman’s cape.
Bill Bentley
• • • Why is someone who is uncontrollable a “loose cannon?” asks Sonya Kersch. The muzzle-loading cannon of sailing warships were mounted on wheeled carriages so they could be pulled back for loading and pushed forward into their ports for firing and were securely lashed to the ship’s structure when not in use. If the warship began rolling and pitching in a violent storm and one or more of these 2,000-pound behemoths broke loose from its moorings ... you get the idea. Professor Know-It-All is the nom de plume of Bill Bentley, who invites readers to try and stump him. Send your questions to willbent@prodigy.net.
3121 West temple st l.A., CA 90026
B Gaddy ElEctric since 1978.
With this holding, South can confidently bid 3N because she’s got a Diamond stopper but would be worried about a Heart lead if you had not told her that you had Hearts stopped.
Residential • CommeRCial
• Upgrades • Landscape • Pool Lights • Phone & Computer Lines • Security & Emergency Lighting Service & Repairs
Here’s the correct bidding:
Call Bill 323-462-1023
South West North East P 1N P 1C 2D* P 2H P 3N All Pass
Local References
Licensed & Insured
©LC1010
At the Movies
ProfessorKnowIt-All
in accordance with an actual law — the Riot Act of 1715. To “read the riot act” is that rarest of expressions — one that is both literal and figurative. • • • How come certain soldiers of the British crown are known as “Household” troops? queries John Patterson. These are troops whose special duty is to attend the sovereign. In Great Britain, they consist of the Household Cavalry — the Life Guards and the Royal Horse Guards (or Blues) and the Brigade of Foot Guards — Grenadier, Coldstream, Scots, Irish, and Welsh. These different regiments rotate on a regular basis and when not attending the Queen are on duty elsewhere.
LIC #700914
336 n. larchmont (323) 464-3031
In the actual hand, North did not bid her Heart stopper. Instead she bid 3C. South invited with 4 Clubs and North went to 5, for down 1 when it sails 3N. Grand Slam is the nom de plume for an author of a bestselling book on bridge, an ACBL accredited director and a Silver Life Master.
hours: monday-friday 10am-6pm saturday 8am-4pm closed sunday
Complete SeleCtion of Pet Food & SuPPlieS free parking in rear
• pet tags made while you wait
LOW COST VACCINATIONS NEXT CLINIC, TUESDAY 2/7/17 from 2P.M.-6 P.M.
©LC0217
year’s date is divisible by four with the exception of those years divisible by 100 but not by 400. Get it? This adding of a day accommodates the year to the difference between the calendar day and the solar day. “Leap” is from the Old English hlyp, which refers to a change based on faith (leap of faith), and is about the only way anyone could follow this explanation. • • • When we’re upset, we “read the riot act.” Why? Wonders Margo Hinton. In England, since the early
© LC 0208 ©LC0615
Why was last year called a "leap year?" wonders Susan Brook. A very timely question. A leap year is any year having February 29 as an additional day, making 366 days in all. Now here’s where it gets tricky. A leap year occurs in the Gregorian calendar (which is the system of reckoning time we still use today, introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in 1582 to correct errors in the formerly used Julian calendar, which allowed the year 11 minutes, 10 seconds too much). Leap year occurs whenever the
All vaccinations administered by Larchmont Animal Clinic Veterinarians.
Larchmont Chronicle's
Classified ads
To place a classified ad call 323-462-2241, ext. 13.
volunteer opportunity Skirball Cultural Center Needs You!
employment
For Sale
ArtNight Pasadena Seeks Docents
Acorn Stairlifts
$10/hr for 1 training session & for working night of event. Event Date: Fri., 3/10/17, Larchmont Chronicle 4:45 to 10:45 p.m. Call 323-462-2241, x 13 Training Dates: Feb. 9, 14, 16, 21, 23 & 28. Must know & have For info, email: Creative Suite/InDesign. For information, email: artnightpasdocents@ rachel@puttputtproductions.com programs@skirball.org gmail.com
Wanted ~ Ushers for Performance Labs! Shifts are weekends from Jan. 27 thru Feb. 25. Free meal with shift.
For Sale
Stop overpaying for Limited time: $250 Off Your your preScriptionS!
Stairlift Purchase! Call 1-800-970-2159 for Call our licensed Canadian FREE DVD and brochure. & international pharmacy. Get $25 off your first order! Read My Books! CALL 1-800-398-0082 SciFi/FantaSy & More! Promo Code CDC201625 rachelvolivier.com
tell our aDvertiSerS you "saw it in the larChmont ChroniCle!"
ServiceS
ServiceS
PRoofReadeR CoPy editoR
NEW AT&T INTERNET OFFER
develoPMental editing Books, Scripts, Theses, Dissertations, Newsletters, Magazines & More. 20 years experience! 323-856-9501 puttputtproductions.com
$20 & $30/mo plans when bundled. 99% Reliable 100% Affordable. New Customers Only. CALL NOW 1-800-689-3713
16
SECTION two
FEBRUARY 2017
Larchmont Chronicle