LC Section One 03 2024

Larchmont Chronicle

Larchmont Chronicle

A Larchmont Central Park(let?)

A Larchmont Central Park(let?)

n Neighborhood input sought for concept

n Neighborhood input sought for concept

n Neighborhood input sought for concept

By John Welborne and Patty Lombard

By John Welborne and Patty Lombard

By John Welborne

For years, there have been discussions about the future of Larchmont Boulevard and improving landscape and customer amenities. A stimulus for a renewed focus on this question was the 2020–2021 COVID-19 pandemic, which brought temporary outdoor dining platforms to replace some of the angle parking spaces up and down the Boulevard, between First Street and Beverly Boulevard.

For years, there have been discussions about the future of Larchmont Boulevard and improving landscape and customer amenities. A stimulus for a renewed focus on this question was the 2020–2021 COVID-19 pandemic, which brought temporary outdoor dining platforms to replace some of the angle parking spaces up and down the Boulevard, between First Street and Beverly Boulevard.

For years, there have been discussions about the future of Larchmont Boulevard and improving landscape and customer amenities. A stimulus for a renewed focus on this question was the 2020–2021 COVID-19 pandemic, which brought temporary outdoor dining platforms to replace some of the angle parking spaces up and down the Boulevard, between First Street and Beverly Boulevard.

Ladies pro golf is coming to WCC in April

Ladies pro golf is coming to WCC in April

Ladies pro golf is coming to WCC in April

By John Welborne

By John Welborne

By John Welborne

Excitement

Excitement mounts for the return of the Ladies Professional Golf Association championship tournament at Wilshire Country Club.

Excitement mounts for the return of the Ladies Professional Golf Association championship tournament at Wilshire Country Club.

Scheduled this year for Thurs., April 25 to Sun., April

Scheduled this year for Thurs., April 25 to Sun., April

Scheduled this year for Thurs., April 25 to Sun., April

See LPGA, P 7

See LPGA, P 7

See LPGA, P 7

Homeless are tallied in GWNC

Homeless are tallied in GWNC

Homeless are tallied in GWNC

By John Welborne

By John Welborne

By John Welborne

counters

Homeless counters in Greater Wilshire’s census tracts on the night of Jan. 25 included (pictured below) Federal Prosecutor (and D.A. candidate) Jeff Chemerinsky (second

Wilshire’s census tracts on the night of Jan. 25 included (pictured below) Federal Prosecutor (and D.A. candidate) Jeff Chemerinsky (second from

Homeless counters in Greater Wilshire’s census tracts on the night of Jan. 25 included (pictured below) Federal Prosecutor (and D.A. candidate) Jeff Chemerinsky (second from left) and Windsor Square residents

Summer Camps & Programs

Read

Read our annual list of spring and summer camp offerings, activities and school programs in the April issue. Advertising deadline is Mon., March 11.

tact Pam Rudy,

contact Pam Rudy, 323-4622241, ext. 11.

Candidates for Schiff’s seat in U.S. Congress spar at debate

Candidates for Schiff’s seat in U.S. Congress spar at debate

Candidates for Schiff’s seat in U.S. Congress spar at debate

n Super Tuesday is March 5 — Vote!

By Suzan Filipek and John Welborne

By Suzan Filipek and John Welborne

Tuesday is here!

By Suzan Filipek and John Welborne Super

Super Tuesday is here!

Super Tuesday is here!

Technically, the presidential primary election is Tues., March 5, but for many residents, their choices have been made, with ballots marked and in the mail.

Technically, the presidential primary election is Tues., March 5, but for many residents, their choices have been made, with ballots marked and in the mail.

Technically, the presidential primary election is Tues., March 5, but for many residents, their choices have been made, with ballots marked and in the mail.

For everyone else, there are still a few days to ponder critical electoral contests — by March 5, including the conclusion of the presidential primary in California.

For everyone else, there are still a few days to ponder contests by March 5, including the conclusion of the presidential primary in California.

For everyone else, there are still a few days to ponder critical electoral contests — by March 5, including the conclusion of the presidential primary in California.

For local readers, the most interesting and contentious races probably are two — the one for the 30th District U.S. Congress seat long held by U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff (now

For local readers, the most interesting and contentious races probably are two — the one for the 30th District U.S. Congress seat long held by U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff (now

For local readers, the most interesting and contentious races probably are two — the one for the 30th District U.S. Congress seat long held by U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff (now

running for U.S. Senate) and the Los Angeles County District Attorney race, where

running for U.S. Senate) and the Los Angeles County District Attorney race, where

running for U.S. Senate) and the Los Angeles County District Attorney race, where

Vote on or before Tuesday, March 5

11 candidates are challenging the incumbent, George Gascón. Some Larchmont Chronicle readers also get to vote for a city councilmember for Council District 10 and/ or a Los Angeles County

11 candidates are challenging the incumbent, George Gascón. Some Larchmont Chronicle readers also get to vote for a city councilmember for Council District 10 and/ or a Los Angeles County

11 candidates are challenging the incumbent, George Gascón. Some Larchmont Chronicle readers also get to vote for a city councilmember for Council District 10 and/ or a Los Angeles County

Called ”parklets” by some people, these dining platforms really were just private acquisitions of public space for adjoining private businesses, and they were a welcome necessity when regulations prohibited eating indoors at restaurants and parking demand on Larchmont was greatly reduced because most retail stores were closed.

Called ”parklets” by some people, these dining platforms really were just private acquisitions of public space for adjoining private businesses, and they were a welcome necessity when regulations prohibited eating indoors at restaurants and parking demand on Larchmont was greatly reduced because most retail stores were closed.

Called “parklets” by some people, these dining platforms really were just private acquisitions of public space for adjoining private businesses, and they were a welcome necessity when regulations prohibited eating indoors at restaurants and parking demand on Larchmont was greatly reduced because most retail stores were closed.

But permanently expanding space for outdoor dining — to serve all Larchmont businesses, including takeout food establishments that are not allowed to have their own tables and chairs — was an idea that has kept percolating. It was one of the many ideas discussed in the Larchmont 2021 Community Conversations convened by the Larchmont Boulevard Association (LBA) and overseen by

But permanently expanding space for outdoor dining — to serve all Larchmont businesses, including takeout food establishments that are not allowed to have their own tables and chairs — was an idea that has kept percolating. It was one of the many ideas discussed in the Larchmont 2021 Community Conversations convened by the Larchmont Boulevard Association (LBA) and overseen by

But permanently expanding space for outdoor dining — to serve all Larchmont businesses, including takeout food establishments that are not allowed to have their own tables and chairs — was an idea that has kept percolating. It was one of the many ideas discussed in the Larchmont 2021 Community Conversations convened by the Larchmont Boulevard Association (LBA) and overseen by

Neighborhood Council opposes Larchmont project

Neighborhood Council opposes Larchmont project

Why

By John Welborne

By John Welborne

By

a

at 507 N. Larchmont Blvd.?

Why are so many local residents up in arms about a proposed seven-story apartment building on a narrow lot at 507 N. Larchmont Blvd.?

Why are so many local residents up in arms about a proposed seven-story apartment building on a narrow lot at 507 N. Larchmont Blvd.?

Concern about this project generated a huge turnout of concerned residents at the Jan. 23 meeting of the Land Use Committee of the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council (GWNC). Committee chair Brian Curran managed the very civil discourse of comments pro (the distinct

Concern about this project generated a huge turnout at Jan. 23 meeting of the Land Use Committee of the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council (GWNC). Committee chair Brian Curran managed the very civil discourse of comments pro (the distinct

Concern about this project generated a huge turnout of concerned residents at the Jan. 23 meeting of the Land Use Committee of the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council (GWNC). Committee chair Brian Curran managed the very civil discourse of comments pro (the distinct

(from left) Gary Gilbert, Christine Lennon and Andrew Reich.

507 N. LARCHMONT BLVD. apartment project proposed as “100 percent affordable” has outraged neighbors because it also appears designed to include six floors with higher-priced “market-rate” units, all with no on-site parking.

and switch’

LARCHMONT CENTRAL PARK(LET) for the Boulevard is a concept being foated for public feedback. The idea is to provide permanent seating and dining areas for shoppers and take-out food establishment customers. Rendering by JMS Design Associates

left) and Windsor Square residents (from left) Gary Gilbert, Christine Lennon and Andrew Reich.

507 N. LARCHMONT BLVD. apartment project proposed as “100 percent affordable” has outraged neighbors because it also appears designed to include six floors with higher-priced “market-rate” units, all with no on-site parking.

See ‘Bait switch’, P 8

LARCHMONT CENTRAL PARK(LET) for the Boulevard is a concept being foated for public feedback. The idea is to provide permanent seating and dining areas for shoppers and take-out food establishment customers. Rendering by JMS Design Associates

from left) and Windsor Square residents (from left) Gary Gilbert, Christine Lennon and Andrew Reich.

mounts for the return of the Ladies Professional Golf Association championship tournament at Wilshire Country Club.

507 N. LARCHMONT BLVD. apartment project proposed as “100 percent affordable” has outraged neighbors because it also appears designed to include six floors with higher-priced “market-rate” units, all with no on-site parking.

See ‘Bait and switch’, P 8

Editorial

By John Welborne

Now on stage — compositions once blocked by racial prejudice

Los Angeles is fortunate to have, now underway, an unprecedented “double bill” of two short (one-act) operas infrequently performed. One of the musical compositions is the work of a Black man, William Grant Still, a resident of Los Angeles for the last 30 years of his life.

The other composer, Alexander Zemlinsky, was a European refugee from the Nazi regime, which had banned Zemlinsky’s work. Both composers were active from the early part of the 20th century.

In an abbreviated essay on Page 11 of Section 2 of this issue of the Larchmont Chronicle, James Conlon, Music Director of LA Opera, tells us that the two composers, who probably never knew one another, are united because of the fate of their music. Their compositions, Conlon says, “seemed buried with them and remained so in neglect, some for half a century.”

Fortunately for us, Maestro Conlon and LA Opera are presenting, on the same evening, two of their works: “Highway 1, USA” by William Grant Still, and “The Dwarf” by Alexander Zemlinsky. There are just five performances remaining through March 17 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.

DEDICATED TO THE PRESERVATION OF HANCOCK PARK

Homeowners

ASSOC I ATION

HANCOCK PARK HOME OWNERS ASSOCIATION

Est. 1948

137 N. LARCHMONT BLVD. LOS ANGELES 90004 www.HancockPark.org

March 5th Election! Be An Informed VOTER!

Voting has started! It’s vitally important that we are informed on the issues and who we are voting for! The people we send to LA City, County, Sacramento, and Washington DC will make decisions that will impact our lives for decades to come. Here’s what is on the March 5th Ballot!

1) 30th Congressional District Congressperson

2) State Assemblymember 51st District

3) LA County District Attorney

4) Initiatives: Measure HLA and Proposition 1.

Measure HLA would convert Mobility Plan 2035, an aspirational planning document adopted by the City Council in 2015, into a mandate that requires the city to add bike lanes, bus lanes and traffic-slowing “road diets” to city streets whenever at least one-eighth of a mile is repaved. The Mobility Plan 2035 was intended to improve all forms of mobility in Los Angeles, but HLA deals primarily with bike mobility. Matt Szabo, the City’s top budget analyst, warns the measure could cost more than $3.1 billion over the next 10 years. Szabo also states that projects required under Measure HLA would reduce the number of streets that are repaved each year.

The HLA initiative was written by Michael Schneider, founder of Streets For All; streetsforall.org/initiatives. Schneider says adding bike lanes and road diets make streets safer and would force city agencies to complete a list of projects. It would allow any City resident to file a lawsuit against the City for noncompliance.

Read the Mobility Plan 2035 here: tinyurl.com/33mah2fs

Please refer to your City of Los Angeles VOTER INFORMATION PAMPHLET (tinyurl.com/2zd6kwvj) for more detailed information on HLA.

Proposition 1 would change California’s 20-year-old Mental Health Services Act and includes funding to build more than 10,000 new treatment beds. Many unhoused people on our streets have mental health problems, and Proposition 1 proposes an approach of more funding and uniformity of services in order to help solve this problem. It would mark a major change in the state’s approach to homelessness and mental health, and it’s critically important that voters inform themselves and vote.

For more detailed information on Proposition 1, please refer to the voter guide: tinyurl.com/ykdascc8.

We welcome volunteers! We’re also asking every homeowner to become a dues paying member. See our website for more specific information about how you can participate: hancockparkhomeownersassociation.org

Calendar

Sun., March 10 — Daylight Saving Time begins. First night of Ramadan.

Tues., March 12 — Mid City West Neighborhood Council board meeting, 6:30 p.m. at Pan Pacific Park Senior Center, 141 S. Gardner St., midcitywest.org.

Wed., March 13 — Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council board meeting, 6:30 p.m. at the Ebell of Los Angeles, 743 S. Lucerne Blvd., greaterwilshire.org.

Sun., March 17 — St. Patrick’s Day.

Tues., March 19 — First day of spring.

Thurs., March 28 — Delivery of the April issue of the Larchmont Chronicle

Fri., March 29 — Good Friday.

Sun., March 31 — Easter

Sunday and Cesar Chavez Day.

Letters to the Editor

A city we can live in Please consider advocating for the development of more market rate, high-density housing in the neighborhood. We all want a neighborhood where our children can afford to live and work even if they have a modest job. As it is, every development is opposed. We all need to advocate for a city we can all live in, growing and thriving.

James Standish Hancock Park

34th Congressional District

I am writing about the recent election article that was printed in the latest Larchmont Chronicle [“Yes, local elections coming up — soon,” Feb. 2024]. I was glad to see a section about the local election and then disappointed

to see a lack of candidate information for the CA-34 race. David Kim is running against corporate-backed Jimmy Gomez and won 49 percent of the General vote last cycle (2022) [and 47 percent when he first ran against Gomez in 2020 – Ed.]. To imply that Jimmy Gomez will most likely win reelection without a nod to the close races the last two cycles seems like an oversight. Hope to see more information being shared or at least a link where readers can learn more.

Nicole Donanian-Blandón Campaign Director David Kim for U.S. Congress 2022 [Learn more at: ballotpedia.org/ David_Kim_(California) – Ed.]

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.

‘What are your plans for St. Patrick’s Day?’

That’s the question inquiring photographer Casey Russell asked locals.

“We’re going to be eating corned beef and cabbage and drinking green beer.”

Susan and George Merlis with Lucy Windsor Village

“We are going to make a brisket. My husband, Ben Oliver Kerr, recently passed away and it was his traditional St. Patrick’s Day meal. We’re going to use the same recipe he used to win second place in the Real Man’s Cookbook for Education years back.”

Delores Shine Kerr with her granddaughter Jade James Brookside

#103 Los Angeles, CA 90004 323-462-2241

larchmontchronicle.com

In our article about elections last month [“Yes, local elections coming up — soon,” Feb. 2024], we wrote that, for local California Legislature seats, “In the State Senate, each incumbent in the local races is expected to be reelected: Senate District 24, Ben Allen; Senate District 26, Maria Elena Durazo; and Senate District 28, Lola Smallwood-Cuevas.” Our error was not our certainty about these State Senators remaining in office. That is absolute because they actually are not running for reelection. As representatives of even-numbered State Senate districts, they are in the middle of their four-year terms, each having been elected in 2022. The Chronicle apologizes for the error.

“We will go to the Farmers’ Market in Hollywood to Dave’s Korean Gourmet where we get the tempeh and veggie broth to make split pea soup — green for St. Patrick’s Day! Then we will ride our scooters to the park for a big vegan picnic.”

Valor Goodman, Katie Hall and Worthy Goodman Hancock Park

Politics, comedy, birthdays and beneft events fll calendars

Locals gathered in the expansive garden of the historic Windsor Square home of Kevin MacLellan and Brian Curran on Jan. 27. Their “O’Melveny House,” named for its original owner, pioneer Los Angeles lawyer H.W. O’Melveny, was moved from the Westlake neighborhood to South Plymouth Boulevard in 1930. The reception was organized for friends to meet House of Representatives candidate Anthony Portantino.

• • •

The 1929 Deco Building on Wilshire Boulevard, originally a bank, played host to the Jan. 28 inaugural evening of Whippet Comedy Night. Organized by Hancock Park residents and stand-up comedians Mary Huth and Diana Hong, the sold-out, first-ofits-kind showcase featured up-and-coming and established comics seen on Comedy Central, Late Night with Seth

SECTION ONE

Around the Town with

Meyers, Superstore, Shrinking, Crashing and Second City. On stage were Aparna Nancherla, Chris Grace, Kari Assad, Lizzy Cooperman and Brian Gallivan.

Huth and Hong organized the event as a way to feature monthly comedy shows in Hancock Park and the Miracle Mile. “Los Angeles has a deep pool of comedic talent. Whippet offers a unique opportunity to bring those incredible comics into Hancock Park, in a beautiful Art Deco venue to showcase their talents,” said Huth, who has lived with her partner Susan Butler in Hancock Park for more than 20

years. Now an empty-nester, Huth caught the comedy bug after the pandemic. Her co-producer, Hong, is an established comedian from the Bay Area, having performed at Limestone Comedy Fest, FUSE and San Francisco Sketchfest. All future events will be held the fourth Saturday of the month at Hexi, located in the historic Deco Build-

ing. Hexi is a service-oriented initiative aimed at enhancing Indonesia’s national image, and patrons can shop for clothing, purses, jewelry and many more offerings while enjoying the evening of comedy. Locals in attendance included AJ and Julie Johnson, Kenji and Tadashi Butler and Grethel Bayro.

Fifteen neighbors interested in increasing housing gathered with Lindsay Sturman Jan. 30 at her Windsor Square home. Over drinks and pizza, they heard from her, from building designer John Claflin and from former Culver City Mayor Thomas Small. Those three are among the creators and advocates for the Livable Communities Initiative that

(Please turn to Page 4)

SECTION THREE

ANTHONY PORTANTINO introduces himself to locals at the Windsor Square garden of Brian Curran and Kevin MacLellan.

FRIENDS AND COMEDIANS, left to right, Jehonna Corrales, Mary Huth, Ruth Brandt and Lisa Orkin.

Around Town

(Continued from Page 3) promotes construction of attractive three- to five-story buildings above ground-floor retail and adjoining walkable, tree-lined and car-light streets with protected bicycle lanes.

Pasadena on a rainy Feb. 4 was the site for a festive Sunday brunch given by popular Pasadenan Gordon Pashgian at the Annandale Golf Club honoring Windsor Square’s Pamela Clyne. The setting was appropriate because Pamela loves the game. Locals heading east for the event included Olivia and Steve Kazanjian, Robert Ronus, Martha and John Welborne, Carlotta Keely, and Pam’s hubby Shannon.

Son Taylor Clyne recounted funny stories, and Virginia and Ross Roberts came down from San Francisco for the occasion. Virginia is Pam’s

oldest friend, from childhood. Party highlights included a clever poem written for Pam and recited by the author, Joan Hotchkis. Host Pashgian commissioned a most extraordinary birthday surprise — a really big golf ball chocolate cake — just right for player Pam.

• • • Supporters of Larchmont Charter School gathered at an ultra-private screening room in Beverly Hills Feb. 7 to so-

cialize, eat, drink and view the recently released first-run feature film “Argylle.” Surrounded by movie posters and a vintage popcorn machine, guests were transported into the land of movies and fantasy. The Matthew Vaughn-directed comedy mystery adventure was the highlight of the evening, projected after guests enjoyed bites and tastings from Ricca Kitchen by Kori Bernards, formerly of Larchmont Charter Edible Schoolyard. The spread included an array of fresh cheeses, vegetables, salads, dips, meats and tasty homemade desserts. Guests drank wine and beer while catching up with old friends and new. After the feast, the hosts, Windsor Square’s Danny and Zoe Corwin, beckoned the celebrants into the plush, sound-proof, cave-like screening room for the big screen entertainment.

Zoe Corwin thanked the crowd for supporting such an important pre-K-12 local school, recently awarded a California Distinguished Schools Award. Ready for the movie magic were locals Mike and Lisa O’Malley, Daphne Brogdon, Gio Verri, AJ and Julie Johnson, Zoe and Danny Corwin, Pete Sepenuk, Laura Siegel and Bob Wenoker, Jane and Matt Stuecken, Kori Bernards, Tom Eisenhauer, Hayley and Chris Stott, Kelvin Koze and Jen Enani.

• • •

When guests were asked to glam up their attire for the Tailwaggers Foundation Waggy Awards on Feb. 8, they did not disappoint! Attendees showed up in their glamorous, sparkly, fur-friendly best to raise funds and to celebrate the efforts of the Tailwaggers Foundation, a charitable organization run

by the Larchmont Tailwaggers’ own Todd Warner.

The organization raises funds for various animal rescue organizations in and around Los Angeles.

The event was hosted by Lotta Slots and Kay Sedia, honoring Dr. Kwane Stewart of Project Street Vet (a 2023 CNN hero honoree) for his work with the homeless and their pets; activist actor Lana Parrilla from Netflix’s “The Lincoln Lawyer;” and Congressman Ted Lieu, each for their advocacy and work with the animal welfare community. The evening’s ticket sales and live and silent auctions raised $100,000 to be granted to various local 501(c)3 organizations that specialize in animal welfare. Dr. Stewart commented on one of the most memorable things he’s ever heard from his work with the unhoused community about their animal companions. “If I end it tonight, who is going to feed [my pet] in the morning?” one unhoused man expressed to Dr. Stewart about the man’s reason to keep enduring. Todd Warner was proud to mention that the first person to purchase a table for this year’s event was his mother. A successful night indeed!

• • • And now you’re in the Larchmont know!

skin deep

by Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald

Hand up if you’ve perfected the mirror face lift. A quick lift of the brows, upward coaxing of the jowls, maybe even a smoothing of the neck skin. If only it would stay. While we understandably fret and fuss over the most superficial layers of our skin, its actually deeper in the layers, about 1.5 millimeters deeper, where the real magic happens.

Sofwave, a new skin tightening device, has perfected tapping into the magic. When the mid-dermis is heated, a healing response called neocollagenases increases the collagen in our skin to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and to lift brows, jowls and other loose skin. Sofwave offers several other upsides: it’s safe for all skin types, appropriate during all seasons, it’s non-invasive and yields real results after a single treatment. One more… Sofwave’s integrated cooling system, Sofcool, protects and comforts the outer layer of skin as the ultrasound treatment reaches the depth in your dermis for an ideal outcome. Maintain your enviable results with one or two treatments annually.

Now hand up if you’re ready to contact our office today to schedule your Sofwave appointment and discover its many upsides.

Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald is a Board Certifed 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 from around the world to teach proper injection techniques for Radiesse, the volumizing fller. 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.

LANA PARRILLA receives an award for her animal welfare activism.

supporters at movie night.

TAILWAGGERS’ Todd Warner enjoys the reception.

FORMER MAYOR of Culver City Thomas Small, at left, speaks with neighbors gathered in the Windsor Square home of Lindsay Sturman to learn more about the Livable Communities Initiative for building housing.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRANTS for Pamela Clyne (center) include Ross Roberts, left, and Bill Hammerstein, right.

GOLF BALL chocolate cake is a big surprise for honoree Pamela Clyne.

Debate

(Continued from Page 1)

Supervisor for District 2. U.S. Congress seats

Adjoining the highly contested 30th California Congressional District are Districts 34 and 37. Both have incumbents. Jimmy Gomez is running again in his Congressional District 34, and Sydney KamlagerDove is running again in her District 37.

Note the Letter to the Editor in this issue where a campaigner for a challenger for the Gomez 34th District seat — democratic socialist David Kim, who almost beat Gomez in 2022 — takes the Chronicle to task for ignoring her candidate in our last issue.

For most local voters in Greater Wilshire and Mid City, there are two local elections where their votes make the biggest difference, each election featuring a multitude of candidates: the

California 30th District House of Representatives seat long held by, and being vacated by, Adam Schiff, and the District Attorney seat currently held by George Gascón.

Adam Schiff seat

Ten of the fifteen candidates seeking the 30th Congressional District seat — held by Adam Schiff since 2000 — appeared on the stage of the Wilshire Ebell Theatre on Saturday afternoon, Feb. 10, and those 10 are pictured above. Top

contenders in the race include former city attorney Mike Feuer, state Assemblymember Laura Friedman, Los Angeles Unified School District board member Nick Melvoin and state Sen. Anthony Portantino.

The remaining 11 candidates in this race are: Josh Bocanegra, G. “Maebe” Pudlo, Francesco Arreaga, Sal Genovese, Jirair Ratevosian, Steve Andrae Dunwoody, Sepi Shyne, Alex Balekian, Emilio Martinez, Erskine Levi and

Ben Savage. Visit lavote.gov for more information.

District Attorney seat

Eleven candidates are challenging incumbent Los Angeles County District Attorney George Gascón, who was elected in 2020. Some of the challengers are from his own office. Like other county and City of Los Angeles races, the D.A.’s election is nonpartisan.

In the running against Gascon are: Eric Siddall, Jonathan Hatami, Maria Ramirez, John McKinney, Nathan Hochman, Debra Archuleta, Jeff Chemerinsky, Lloyd Masson, Craig Mitchell, David S. Milton and Dan Kapelovitz.

City Council

The only local Los Angeles City Council contest (evennumbered council districts this time) is for CD 10, along the southern and eastern borders of the Larchmont Chronicle readership area.

Running as the incumbent in this nonpartisan race is Heather Hutt, the appointed replacement for her convicted predecessor, Mark RidleyThomas. Also seeking this City Council seat are Eddie Anderson, Reggie JonesSawyer, Aura Vásquez and Grace Yoo.

Board of Supervisors

The County Board of

Supervisors contest on the ballot locally is for District 2 in the southern part of the Chronicle readership area. This also is a nonpartisan race, and the incumbent running for reelection is Holly J. Mitchell. Challenging her are Katrina Williams, Clint D. Carlton and Daphne D. Bradford.

California Legislature

In the State Assembly, two local seats seem secure, with Rick Chavez-Zbur (Assembly District 51) and Isaac Bryan (Assembly District 55) running for reelection.

In the 54th Assembly District, which includes a bit of the southeast corner of the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council area, there are three candidates running for the seat currently held by Miguel Santiago, who is running for the Los Angeles City Council in the Downtown 14th Council District seat now held by Kevin de León, who is running there for reelection. Of the three candidates for Santiago’s Assembly District 54 job, Mark Gonzalez has virtually all of the Democratic establishment endorsements.

U.S. Senate and more Statewide, there are 27 candidates running for the vacant U.S. Senate seat of the late Dianne Feinstein, and there are two ballot

(Please turn to Page 7)

SUNDAY,

CONGRESSIONAL CANDIDATES (10 of the 15) for California’s District 30 spoke on Feb. 10 at The Ebell and included (alphabetically, left to right) Francesco Arreaga, Alex Balekian, Steve Andraé Dunwoody, Mike Feuer, Laura Friedman, G. “Maebe” Pudlo, Nick Melvoin, Anthony Portantino, Jirair Ratevosian and Sepi Shyne.

Big Sunday celebrates 25th with a gala March 14

By Nona Sue Friedman

Celebrate 25 years of Big Sunday at its ninth annual gala on Thurs., March 14. The festivities will be held in the Miracle Mile at Candela, 831 S. La Brea Ave., at 6:30 p.m.

The gala will honor Hancock Park resident Adam Greenfield along with Cathy Weiss, Robert Brown and The Change Reaction, a giving platform. All believe Big Sunday has had a positive and significant impact on the city of Los Angeles.

Big Sunday was started by Hancock Park resident David Levinson as a single day of service in May of 1999. It has expanded to a year-round pro-

gram that helps thousands of people annually. The organization sponsors a yearly Thanksgiving Day food drive and a Martin Luther King Jr. clothing drive. The group sends cards and connects with veterans and fills backpacks for kids in need. And that’s just the beginning. In addition to these bigger events, there are volunteer opportunities almost daily.

Big Sunday volunteers are as diverse in background and demographics as their activities.

For more information about the gala and the organization, which is always looking for more volunteers, visit bigsunday.org.

Writer Sonia Levitin stages reading of new play

By Casey Russell

Holocaust survivor Sonia Levitin is staging a reading of her new play, “Chained,” Thurs., Feb. 29 at 7 p.m. at The Museum of Tolerance at Pico and Roxbury, near Century City. Levitin’s newest work explores the difficulties women petitioning for divorce can face under Jewish law.

Born in Berlin in 1934, Levitin speaks regularly at the Museum of Tolerance about her experiences during the holocaust.

With her mother and sisters, Levitin escaped persecution by fleeing to Switzerland. Her father had escaped to New York City, and the family ultimately came to Los Angeles, where the three girls were raised.

Debate

(Continued from Page 6) propositions to be voted upon locally (one state and one City of Los Angeles measure).

Statewide Proposition 1 will raise bond money and is controversial. City of Los Angeles Measure HLA is controversial because it could

The artistically eclectic 89-year-old is an accomplished painter and an author. She has written 43 books and five plays. Her writing has garnered her numerous accolades, among which are the Pen Award and the National Jewish Book Award.

Some of Levitin’s work chronicles her early years, escaping Nazi Germany and struggling as an immigrant in wartime America before attending college and becoming an educator, writer and artist.

Levitin hopes to present a full production of “Chained” in the fall of 2024.

For tickets to the reading, which will take place at 9786 W. Pico Blvd, visit sonialevitin.com.

require spending unbudgeted local dollars on things like street narrowing (known as “road diets”).

There also are 23 candidates trying to be selected as nominee for the position of President of the United States.

Learn more about voting from the Secretary of State at: tinyurl.com/4dy62mt2.

LPGA

(Continued from Page 1)

28, most, if not all, of the world’s top women golfers are expected to participate.

Last year’s trophy pool doubled (from $1.5 million to $3 million), with a first prize of $450,000. The topprize winner last year was Hannah Green, and she definitely plans to be back.

Wilshire Country Club has become a popular venue for lady golfers. The surrounding residents and golf fans are very welcoming. Some club members who live nearby open up their houses and have tournament players stay as houseguests. In addition, tournament title and presenting sponsors JM Eagle and Plastpro (headed by Walter and Shirley Wang) have this

year decided to underwrite hotel accommodations for all the tournament participants. That is an unusual and attractive benefit for the ladies traveling around the world on the tour.

The popularity of Wilshire Country Club with the players is reciprocal. The current national golf champion, Allisen Corpuz, has been made an honorary member of the club, and visitors can see her large sterling silver U.S. Open trophy on display in

a case at the club. More information about the April tournament, including how to purchase spectator packages and tickets in advance, is available at jmeaglelachampionship.com.

The Beauty of Experience

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U.S. WOMEN’S OPEN champion Allisen Corpuz greets young fans at a reception last month at Wilshire Country Club. Photo by Cris Hayes

‘Bait and Switch’

(Continued from Page 1)

minority) and con. The crux of complaints was that the community planning protections long in place were being waived to create a “100 percent affordable” project of small studio units — but that the project developer allegedly would later sneak in a dozen, much-larger, expensive market-rate units.

GWNC opposes

The Land Use Committee

adopted a motion to recommend to the full board of directors that it “take action to voice its strong support for 100 percent affordable housing projects in the neighborhood and to further oppose this project at 507 N. Larchmont Boulevard until such time as questions about the project raised in this Motion, including but not limited to the lawful bases for the proposed project height, zero parking and claim of 100 percent affordable housing,

are satisfactorily answered.”

That motion was taken up at the subsequent meeting of the GWNC board of directors on Feb. 14. Members of the board expressed support for affordable housing while objecting to “secret” units and “bait and switch” techniques in projects that utilize the “100 percent affordable” waivers and benefits, but then sneak lucrative, non-“affordable” units into those projects. The board adopted the motion presented and put GWNC on record as opposing the 507 N. Larchmont project as presented to the city.

As the accompanying illustrations show, the developer proposed building a “100 percent affordable” building, with seven floors of residential units. On each of the top six of those floors, the developer’s plans show eight studio apartment units of approximately 325 square feet each. But also on each floor are two “recreation rooms” of more than 500 square feet each. That would be a lot of exercise equipment for a landlord to buy! But that seemingly is not the intention. The intention seems to be to bait with 100 percent affordability and then switch to 75 percent affordability by adding a dozen market-rate, likely fairly expensive, one-bedroom units that have the best light and views overlooking the Boulevard.

ONE-BEDROOM market-rate units look to be the developer’s goal for its not-really-100-percent-affordable project at 507 N. Larchmont. Shown is a concept sketch of what could result by converting a foor’s two “recreation rooms” to dwelling units.

The longer accompanying drawing shows the applicant’s typical floor plan for the second through seventh floors. The smaller drawing is a detail — showing one way that the two “recreation rooms” on each floor could become one-bedroom market-rate apartments.

Some people say, “Why do you care; doesn’t it build more needed housing?” Most who are upset with this 507 N. Larchmont project would answer that they care because rules are being broken; promises (100 percent affordable housing) are not being kept; and that condoning such deception is no way to run a civilized society. Certainly, if

the extra “recreation rooms” were not stuffed in, the “100 percent affordable” building could provide its 52 units of studio apartments at lower height, thereby being less offensive to adjoining homeowners.

But that was not what this developer proposed, and that is a reason that neighbors are upset and that the board of the GWNC has gone on record as opposing the 507 N. Larchmont Blvd. project.

In response to a Feb. 23 query from the Chronicle about the developer’s application, a City Planning Dept. representative replied: “The project continues to be incomplete and on hold.”

STANDING-ROOM-ONLY AUDIENCE participated in the GWNC Land Use Committee meeting, held Jan. 23 at Marlborough School .

LAND USE COMMITEE CHAIR Brian Curran, speaking at corner of the table, calls on those who wish to testify.

FLOOR PLAN shows eight “affordable” studio apartments, of approximately 325 square feet each, at the west (left) end on the second through seventh foors of the proposed building. Also shown for each of those six foors are two large “recreation rooms” facing Larchmont Boulevard (at right).

Immaculate Heart singer wins Rotary arts pageant

By Nona Sue Friedman

Wilshire Rotary Club hosted the music vocal portion of its annual Pageant of the Arts event on Jan. 24 at The Ebell of Los Angeles.

Four high school students performed in front of Wilshire Rotary members and musician judges. This vocal performance included two students from Larchmont Charter School, one from Loyola High School and one from Immaculate Heart.

The first place winner was Ella Reitz from Immaculate Heart, who received $125. Chigozie Obinwanne from Loyola High School placed second

and won $50. Both winners advance to the district level contest that takes place on April 15. At that event, contestants will sing against winners from 65 local Rotary clubs.

According to Pam Rudy, past president of the club and one of the organizers of this year’s Pageant, “Ella was amazing, no contest. She was so good she could win the entire competition.”

The Pageant encourages high school students to develop, hone and display their talents. In addition to vocal competition, the Pageant includes music instrumental, art, dance and speech categories.

Boulevard store openings and closings

By Casey Russell

There always is a constant flow of change with retail stores on the Boulevard, and this month is no different.

Jamba Juice , which had held residency at 122 N. Larchmont Blvd. (its second Boulevard location) for many years, has closed.

Topo Designs , an outdoor clothing and accessories store, opened in the space previously occupied, for about a year, by Midland, in the Larchmont Mercantile Building.

Catbird , the new jewelry store at 124 1/2 N. Larchmont Blvd., is expected to open in mid to late March, we are told. Jewel Bressler, a leader at the store’s Culver City location, said employees will begin training at the end of February, and the store will have a “vintagey” look. Catbird owners see Larchmont as a nice place to call home because of its walkability and its nice shops and restaurants. Lots of people enjoy being out and about on the Boulevard, Bressler said.

Aesop, the new-to-the-Boulevard skin, hair and body care shop, which will also sell fragrances, is on track to open in the spring at 128 N. Larchmont Blvd.

As to Larchmont Jewelers, which is occupying the building it now owns at 119 N. Larchmont Blvd., the most

recent information the Chronicle has is that the high-end jewelry and timepiece store will open in mid-March.

‘Walkathon’ for Alexandria House, Vaughan jubilee

By Suzan Filipek

Walk, run and meet up with friends old and new at a Walkathon on Sat., March 23 celebrating Alexandria House and the 60th jubilee of Judy Vaughan as a sister of St. Joseph of Carondelet.

The eighth annual walkathon is at Mount St. Mary’s University, Doheny Campus. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. The race starts at 9:30 a.m. The after-party is from

10 a.m. to noon.

The event raises funds for Alexandria House, a transitional home for women and children, which Vaughan founded in 1996.

Fundraising efforts also help pay off a $4 million loan provided to purchase two houses now providing a permanent residence for women and children who turn to Alexandria House. Visit alexandriahouse.org.

Beautiful office in large office suite

Two large windows. Access to conference room and kitchen. Parking Space Included. All in fabulous Hancock Park/Larchmont Boulevard. Walk to restaurants, shops, Rite Aid, yoga, massage, pilates, music classes, banks, etc. Private Entrance to office. Secure building. $1750.

Call: (323) 464-0870 or email: kay@libermanzerman.com

WILSHIRE ROTARY CLUB President Janice Prior, on left, with second-place winner Chigozie Obinwanne in the middle and rst-place winner lla eit on the right.

Students hone robotics skills as technology advances

By Casey Russell

There is no shortage of news stories about artificial intelligence. And though robotics and AI are not synonymous, the two often come hand in hand. Each can work to the benefit of the other, and it’s likely that most robots of the future will have some AI capabilities.

Robots and AI

What actually is “AI,” or artificial intelligence”? The Oxford Learner’s Dictionary tells us it is “the study and development of computer systems that can copy intelligent human behavior.” With the help of AI, today’s robots are being used in myriad ways. Most people are aware that robots have been helping assemble vehicles for decades. They do basic tasks like assisting in the packaging of our food, and they do lifesaving things like helping defend our military personnel.

Robots have also been in-

strumental in humanity’s exploration of space and have helped us delve deep into the mysteries of our oceans.

Today’s robots possess increasingly autonomous

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

157

Spring in Windsor Square!

Get ready for Spring! Windsor Square in March is a time for St. Patrick’s Day revelry, celebrating Women’s History Month and welcoming the arrival of Easter!

St. Patrick’s Day, March 17: Get your annual fix of green beer, corned beef and cabbage and Irish Music at local establishments, The Cat and Fiddle restaurant, historic Tom Bergin’s, Molly Malone’s, and The Original Farmer’s Market. Check listings for more information. discoverlosangeles.com/things-to-do/celebrate-st-patricksday-in-los-angeles

Ebell Club Women’s History Events: The club will be hosting several events in March including She’s History with Amy Simon (7:30 p.m. March 4), The Everywhere of Her (multiple performances), and ‘A Woman’s Place’ art exhibition celebrating Women’s History Month opening March 21. The Ebell Institute for The Study of Women’s History in LA is holding a free public symposium on March 27. ebellofla.org/membership/club-events

LA Marathon, March 17: The annual LA Marathon will be held on St. Patrick’s Day this year and will be passing from Downtown through Hollywood. mccourtfoundation. org/event/los-angeles-marathon

Museums Free For All: Area museums will be participating in the annual SoCal Museums Free For All on March 23. Free entry into all participating museums including the Academy Museum, the Holocaust Museum and LACMA, among others. socalmuseums.org/annualfree-for-all-2024

Easter: Windsor Square and surrounding neighborhoods will be holding annual religious celebrations, Easter egg hunts for the kids, brunches, BBQs, etc. on March 31.

Windsor Square Public Board Meetings: Windsor Square HPOZ Board meets March 6 and 20 at the John C. Fremont Library. Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council General Board Meeting is March 13.

WE NEED BLOCK CAPTAINS! Be the leader of your block and the point person for all that’s going on in your neighborhood. The WSA has numerous Block Captain positions open. It’s a great opportunity to engage with neighbors and community leaders. blockcaptains@ windsorsquare.org

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.

©LC0324

capabilities. Many are able to perceive their surroundings; they can learn and adapt because of better artificial intelligence algorithms. Self-driving cars are essentially robo-cars, and many surgeries are now assisted by robots.

Gen 2 of the Optimus humanoid robot was recently revealed by Tesla. Its abilities have greatly improved. This model has better balance and, Tesla claims, full-body control. It seems to be capable of doing simple daily chores.

These advancements open up new opportunities for many of today’s young people. As automation gradually takes over a higher percentage of repetitive-task jobs, people capable of solving problems, thinking critically and creatively and bringing ingenuity to their work will be in high demand. Of course, well-trained humans will be building and programming all the machines of tomorrow.

Robotics in schools

Many schools have robotics classes or clubs and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and math) programs. In answer to — and aiding in fueling — student interest in robotics, there also is a plethora of robotics and STEAM competitions.

Campbell Hall, an independent Episcopal school featured monthly in our Student News columns, recently had a team qualify for the 2024 VEX Robotics World Championships to be held at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas.

The school’s 14-member team was split into four groups. Team 34690A, with William Ho, Miles Sanger, Asher Avisar and Travis Park, qualified for the World Championship when they traveled to Taiwan to compete with more than 140 teams from all over the world and became Tournament Champions.

Each year’s competitions require the competing robots (or “bots”) to complete a new specific task. This year’s task, Dye told us, is similar to a soccer game in that the robots score points by competing to get the most “balls” into a goal.

Based on early competitions, the students modify their designs, Dye told us. Team 34690A “learned that their robot needed speed,” said Dye. This third iteration of their robot is “very efficient at playing offense and defense.” The team also designed its bot to be capable of going over a bar placed on the playing field by competition designers to make things more difficult.

Dye told us that California schools are sending only 20 teams to Dallas to compete in the World Championships —

the number each region can send is based on how many teams are in the area. The coach told us that she and assistant coach Chad LeCroix have noticed that, with team 34690A’s success, “There is a renewed energy (in all the teams) that has been brought by the winning team’s passion and enthusiasm.”

Marlborough and Fairfax Campbell Hall is not the only local school that has seen success with its robotics teams. Marlborough, for example, has had teams advance to the FIRST World Championships three times — most recently at the 2023 competition. Fairfax High has received three Inter League Tourna-

ment awards this season. While they won’t be advancing to the state championship this year, Fairfax teacher Gerardo Perla believes that they are well-positioned to accomplish their goal of advancing to the Southern California Championship next year.

Teachers we spoke to made it clear that the tasks their robotics students are performing challenge them to become innovative troubleshooters. Dye described these young people as motivated and tenacious.

Regardless of whether these local kids go on to have careers in robotics, the skills they are learning will clearly serve them well as they step into the world of tomorrow.

GEN 2 (late 2 23) of esla’s Optimus Humanoid Robot.

TEAM 34690A’s Travis Park, William Ho and Miles Sanger (left to right) with the Build Award they received at the Chaminade Showdown in November 2023.

COMPETING at the Chaminade Showdown, Team 34690A with other students.

Nine O’Clock Players revive musical Enchanted Sleeping Beauty

By Casey Russell

The Nine O’Clock Players’ spring production of “Enchanted Sleeping Beauty, the Legend of Briar-Rose” is coming to the historic Assistance League Theatre.

This reimagining of the classic Sleeping Beauty tale tells the story of Princess Briar-Rose of the kingdom of Never Nod. Cursed by Evilina, an evil witch, Briar-Rose and her court sleep for 16 years until Prince Alexander overcomes time-defying trials to break the curse and wake the dormant court.

With enchanting music, whimsical characters and

ST. BRENDAN

By Harry Jannone Kim 8th Grade

This past month at St. Brendan has been amazing.

The first Friday of February our 8th grade class played in the Catholic Schools’ Week faculty vs. 8th grade volleyball game. The 8th graders defeated the faculty in straight sets. This was the first time in many years that the 8th graders won 2-0.

On Feb. 14, we celebrated

effects and sets designed by former Disney Imagineers, the Nine O’Clock Players bring this fairy tale alive for audiences of all ages.

Performances for the show will be held Sundays, March 3, 10, 17 and 24, at 2 p.m. at the Assistance League Theatre located at 1367 N. St. Andrews Pl. Tickets are $15. Call 323-545-6153 or visit assistanceleaguela.org or brownpapertickets.com.

Right: PRINCE ALEXANDER and Princess Briar-Rose (the Sleeping Beauty) perform a duet on the Nine ’ lock layers stage.

Valentine’s Day, along with Ash Wednesday. During mass, Father Brian and Monsignor marked the Sign of the Cross on the attendants’ foreheads with the ashes to celebrate the first day of Lent. On March 7, Jay and Mary Fagnano will hold a Thrive in Joy fundraiser called “Nick’s Favorite Lunch” during which students will be able to purchase either macaroni and cheese or chicken and broccoli. This fundraiser is held to honor the passing of their son, Nick Fagnano, and to aid their work in the Dominican Republic.

THIRD STREET

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5th Grade

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a blast! Everyone, including me, had lots of fun.

After a wonderful Lunar New Year celebration at our school, everyone calmed down as March approached. I heard TK through 4th graders are going on an exciting field trip to Universal Studios! I’m kind of sad that we 5th graders don’t get to go, but the younger students deserve it after us having our Clear Creek, Korea and Astrocamp field trips.

Speaking of Astrocamp, it was

The 5th grade P.E. test is coming along too! In the start of March, the 5th graders will have to do a test that includes pushups, curl-ups and a few other activities. But most importantly, there is going to be a mile run… I’m certainly not prepared!

BUCKLEY

By Max Terr 10th Grade

Buckley middle school students will soon be having their first dance of the school year. The upper school has had a busy past few weeks with wins by the boys’ basketball team, which

advanced them all the way to the semifinals.

Lunar New Year was celebrated. The Diversity Equity and Inclusion offices invite the Qing Wei Troupe Lion Dancers to perform for the lower, middle and upper schools.

Buckley also hosted the annual book fair, encouraging more reading throughout the campus. With many students getting accepted to college the work for the sophomores has begun. Counseling and tours will soon happen.

Marlborough head is helping prepare students for the future

By Casey Russell

It has been 18 months since Jennifer Ciccarelli took over as head of school at Marlborough, and we at the Larchmont Chronicle thought we’d check in to see how things are going.

“It’s been fabulous,” said Ciccarelli. “The Marlborough community has been incredibly warm, supportive and welcoming on all levels,” she added. The head of school at the 7th-12th grade independent girls’ school is pleased that, with a full school year at Marlborough under her belt, students, teachers and parents are feeling comfortable coming to her with questions and concerns. “That feels good to me. I fundamentally love the work of leading schools. I love solving problems. I love working collaboratively with people to make the school even better. That’s sort of my happy place.”

One thing that Ciccarelli loves about Marlborough is the way the Rossmore Avenue institution embraces innovation. Even though the school has been in Los Angeles since 1890 (and in its current location since 1916), the school community is open and eager to find new ways to best serve its students.

Languages

This year, a world languages program has been put in place for seventh graders. Rather than jumping into the study of a chosen language right away, all seventh grade students are given the opportunity to think about how people learn languages that are new to them.

They are given exposure to the four languages offered at Marlborough — Korean, Mandarin, Spanish and French — while working to find the commonalities among the four.

Entrepreneurship

This year’s seventh grade students are also the first ones participating in a newly refreshed Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation (CEI) experience, Ciccarelli tells us. Rather than getting a taste of a few of Marlborough’s CEI offerings — such as engineering, media studies, entrepreneurship, computer science, robotics and fabrication — each student gets to try them all so that she can make an informed decision about what she will pursue further in the upper grades.

Optimism for the future

Ciccarelli also told us about a program now being offered for 10th, 11th and 12th graders: Global Futures Institute (GFI). Our planet’s and local communities’ environments, the future of democracy and global identities are all areas of study as part of GFI. Ciccarelli said, “We are getting

[our students] to think about the possibilities for the future so that they can embrace the uncertainty of it with optimism and with an eye toward making a wonderful future for our world.”

One thing the head of school really loves about the Marlborough community is its commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion. At schools she has helmed in the past, Ciccarelli often felt like she had to lead the work. At Marlborough, she said, it has been gratifying to feel that everyone is with her. “Instead of my being out alone in front and pulling people along with me, I’m part of a wonderful tide of support for having a really diverse community, and everyone understands why that’s important.”

Healthy futures

Looking to issues she wants Marlborough to work on over

the next few years, lessening dependence on cell phones and social media are present in her mind. “We are taking it on as a whole community

conversation,” she told us. She wants to talk about how the community can learn to use that technology wisely and with health in mind.

Ciccarelli, who came from Columbus School for Girls in Ohio, spoke further on the health of Marlborough students. “We know that depression and anxiety rates (around the country) are higher than they’ve ever been, and they are increasing,” she said. The head of school is proud of the fact that Marlborough ensures that there are a lot of adult eyes on kids through programs like home room and advisory and health classes. She thinks it’s important that students are well known at school so that faculty can help notice and catch a child who is struggling.

The 530-pupil school has begun partnering with caregivers as well. Through its

Parents and Guardians Education Series (PAGES), Ciccarelli told us the school is helping parents build a community with one another while they learn about important mental health topics. In addition to these goals, Ciccarelli aims to continue having conversations about what an excellent education looks like in the 21st century. “I want to give our students the tools to talk across differences; to disagree with people respectfully and constructively.

“I think that is a critical component of developing citizens for the world who are critical thinkers, who are problem finders and problem solvers, who can work with people who are different from them. All of those things are key components of academic excellence. We aim to help our students and ourselves do it better,” she said.

JENNIFER CICCARELLI with students at a school assembly.

f season training pa s di idends for ig sc ool golfers

Golf legend Jack Nicklaus was raised in Upper Arlington, Ohio, an affluent suburb just north of downtown Columbus. He began golfing when he was 10, and he played daily at Scioto Country Club until he was 21.

Tough trick in Ohio when it’s not summer.

Nicklaus was known for his golf obsession. He’d hit balls during the winter out of a makeshift Quonset hut that could be moved from hole to hole at the country club course to protect him from the cold and sleet.

Short game

In Southern California and other warm-weather regions, off-season training for golfers has a different meaning. The weather is rarely a factor. But what are the most important aspects of the game on which golf coaches want their athletes to focus?

“Off-season, in-season, in-between seasons, it’s always the short game,” said Loyola High School golf Coach Robb Gorr. “Matches and tournaments at this level are decided by the team that performs better on and around the green.”

Marlborough School golf Coach Rick Rielly agrees.

“We stress the importance of the short game. Chipping,

Youth Sports

by Jim Kalin

pitching, putting and bunker play.”

Even in SoCal, it’s not always possible to get outside.

At Loyola, an all-boys high school, the players take part in a rigorous balance, core, and flexibility program curated by Loyola’s strength and conditioning staff. The program is specifically designed for golfers and focuses on their mobility, flexibility and core strength.

Swing low

Marlborough is an independent school for girls. Its golf team practices at Wilshire Country Club, which is also where they host their home matches.

Kaila Elsayegh holds the all-time low-stroke average in Marlborough Mustang golf history. Her overall average the past three years is 35.23.

Elsayegh has the low 18-hole score at Balboa Golf Course in Encino (64) and the low 36hole score in Angelus League

history with a score of 129, which consisted of that 64 at Balboa and a 65 at Los Robles Greens in Thousand Oaks in the 2023 Angelus League Finals. Elsayegh is also tied for Marlborough’s low 9-hole score of 31 with Leila Dizon, 2017, and Zoey Kim, 2023.

Zoey Kim finished her freshman year at Marlborough and had the second lowest all-time scoring average as a freshman with a stroke average of 36.18. She also recorded the lowest 9-hole score this past year with a 31.

“Zoey is now competing in high level AJGA (Ameri-

Marie Casey Collins

March 11, 1935 - February 4, 2024

Marie Casey Collins, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and friend, peacefully passed away at the age of 88 on February 4, 2024. She left this world surrounded by the love of her four sons, marking the end of a life well-lived and a legacy that will endure in the hearts of all who knew her.

Marie was born on March 11, 1935, in Los Angeles, to Marie and Robert Casey, and was raised in Hancock Park. She attended Wilton Place Elementary and Marlborough School – where she met many of her closest, life-long friends. She graduated Marlborough in 1952 and attended Bradford College in Massachusetts for two years then UC Berkeley for one year before withdrawing to care for her ailing mother.

In 1956, Marie married Rogg Collins and their marriage lasted 52 years until his passing in 2008. She would often say their greatest joy was raising their four boys. Marie’s gracious and nurturing spirit extended beyond her immediate family, creating a welcoming home for friends, neighbors, and anyone fortunate enough to cross her path. 508 South Rimpau Boulevard was always a warm, neighborhood hub where many would come to play basketball, baseball, volleyball, hockey, paddle tennis and cards – or to enjoy one of Marie’s delicious, home-cooked meals. If you lived in the neighborhood, you would also see her regularly on one of her daily, hour-long walks – usually at dusk.

Marie was a devoted wife, committed mother and loyal friend. Strong in her Christian faith, she led a Bible study for over 20 years while also serving as a Deacon at Hollywood Presbyterian Church. She found great joy in her Christian fellowship, mentoring others, and assisting those in need. She was also a long-time member of the Jr. League and a volunteer at the Good Samaritan Hospital. In her later years, Marie was a seasoned bridge player – loving the competition and, especially, the camaraderie. Her friendships always meant so much to her –many of which spanned decades. Phone calls, written letters, emails, etc. – Marie was always reaching out to friends, hoping to put a smile on their face or to make them laugh. She was a devoted grandmother and always remained very close to her four sons. Her generosity truly knew no bounds, and her selflessness left an indelible mark on everyone she met.

Marie is predeceased by her husband, Rogg, and her brother, Palmer Casey. Marie is survived by her 4 sons, Rogg (Brenda), Whitley (Tess), John, and Scott (Jessica), her sisterin-law, Ms. Whitley Collins, and 12 grandchildren. A celebration of Marie’s life will be held on March 16, 2024. Details are forthcoming. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Stillpoint Family Resources, PO Box 5103, West Hills, CA 91308 in Marie’s name, as a tribute to her lifelong commitment to helping others.

can Junior Golf Association) events,” said Coach Rielly.

But it’s not always just about playing golf. Rielly’s athletes participated in last year’s JM Eagle LA Championships presented by Plastpro. The students volunteered as walking scorers and standard bearers. The LPGA tournament returns this April at Wilshire Country Club.

Golf Cubs

Loyola’s golf team also volunteers to work the LPGA event every year. Makes sense. Wilshire Country Club is also one of the courses that the Cubs practice on and, like Marlborough, it is where they hold home matches.

Loyola’s squad is deep with talent, and two of its top golf-

THE WILLOWS

By Birdie Reynolds 8th Grade

ers have connections to the Hancock Park / Larchmont community.

Tucker Sweeney is currently a Loyola junior and has committed to Santa Clara University, where he’ll play golf.

Carter Gaede is a sophomore at Loyola, and he plays with his family at Wilshire Country Club. He and Sweeney won All-League honors last year, and the Loyola team ended the season undefeated for the 11th straight year.

“Our players are proud to wear a Loyola ‘L’ on their chests,” said Coach Gorr. “They are inspired by teammates who motivate them to be their best on and off the course every day.”

during which grades mix and get to choose a particular class that they take during the week before spring break.

One thing I have always loved about The Willows is our traditions — the experiences and memories that each class connects over. My classmates and I still talk about the projects we did for our 4th grade exhibitions and the memories we made during our 6th-grade overnight. One tradition that has been around for as long as I can remember is intersession. Intersession is a special school week

In the past, there have been classes like “The Impact of Willows Wear,” in which we learned about marketing and design. There was another one called, “Splat!” In it, we calculated and predicted how different things would fall and then we tested our theories by actually dropping those objects.

Intersession is an incredible opportunity to connect with different people from different grades and I am so grateful for the friendships I have made during intersession over the years.

TUCKER SWEENEY will attend Santa Clara University next year. CARTER GAEDE is a sophomore at Loyola.

KAILA ELSAYEGH holds the low score course record at Balboa Golf Course.

ZOEY KIM is a sophomore at Marlborough School.

KAILA ELSAYEGH AND ZOEY KIM play on the Marlborough Mustangs golf team.

By Casey Russell

I recently read a line in a poem by Mary Oliver: You have “come into the world to do this, to go easy, to be filled with light and to shine.” The passage struck me because, of course, it feels so true. And yet, I feel that as we go through life, we often stray from this task.

We can be existing in a perfectly beautiful moment, but our thoughts have the power to steal it away. The sky is blue, we’ve just returned home with our healthy children, we have food in the refrigerator. Then we see an email from our boss asking us to come in to the office early tomorrow for a one-on-one. Our beau-

ST. JAMES’

By Hailey Lee

5th Grade

subtle tools to allow their own lights to

tiful moment is forgotten, and our minds are suddenly thinking, “Oh no, I heard they were going to cut some people. I can’t afford to lose this job. I’ve been putting in extra hours! I can’t believe they’re firing me after 10 years!”

Our minds are so quick. We have thoughts faster than lightning. Someone says or does something. We assume we know his or her intentions. With these assumptions solidified in our minds, we form opinions and thoughts. These thoughts inform our feelings, which, in turn, motivate our actions and behaviors. Moment stolen.

It’s not just adults who do this. Children do it, too. “Taylor hates me!” “I never get to do anything!” “I’ve had the worst day!” our tearful, angry, frustrated children tell us.

Tips on Parenting by Casey

Russell

she teaches people to question their burdensome thoughts. The basic questions are quite simple: “Is it true?” “Can you know absolutely that it’s true?” “How do you react — what happens — when you believe that thought?” “Who would you be without the thought?” There is a bit more to it, and I highly recommend the book. But, really, these are great jumping-off points for talking with children when they are sad, angry, fearful — you name it.

hard.” Then, you can ask her what playing soccer was like before she had that thought. Usually, the answer will be very different than it was before. Gently, you can ask her if she can think of anyone on the team who doesn’t think she sucks. Most likely, she’ll be able to find at least one individual and, if she can open her mind to finding one person, she may realize she can find two. Suddenly, the “Everyone thinks I suck” thought isn’t quite as powerful. There has been an opening of the mind, and it is not as stuck on the one path it was seeing.

Nuanced thinking

start to question and to step into trying to find other possibilities when we hear them say things like this. We start by empathizing, “It must’ve felt bad to think that boy was being greedy. That must’ve felt unfair.” Then we can help our child question. “Do you know if that boy had breakfast this morning? Is it possible that his family didn’t have food for him to eat this morning and those bagels were the first food he’d had today? I wonder what that would feel like to not have any food until snack time?”

As our teachers say, there is never a dull moment at St. James’. Wrapping up Black History Month with a gospel chapel and In-N-Out Burger Day, we head into Women’s History Month. While there will be highlights in chapel, each classroom has its special projects to celebrate how women have impacted the world.

Another exciting upcoming event is the “Matilda” musical. Our amazing performing arts teacher is directing the show. “Matilda” is based on the novel by his favorite author, Roald Dahl. The teacher wanted to share his love of the story and the music with our generation of students. “Matilda” is about curiosity and how an appreciation for learning helps us tap into our abilities.

Also, an exciting event that is coming up for all 6th graders is Decision Day. On this day, all the students will find out what middle schools they have been accepted to. Although it will be cool to go to middle school, many people will miss St. James’.

But here’s the great news — we don’t have to be ruled by our initial thoughts. And we can begin giving our children tools they can use so that they can “go easy” more often.

Questioning

Several years ago, I was introduced to the work of Byron Katie. She has an audio book called “Loving What Is.” In it,

Let’s say your child comes home from soccer practice and tells you that everyone on her team thinks she sucks. First, you can empathize with her feelings. You can ask her how she feels when she thinks about that. She will probably give you some clear, loud words — perhaps accompanied by tears — about how she feels. You can respond with something like, “That must be

Humans, children included, can have very polarized thinking. Our child sees someone take two bagels at snack time instead of one, like most others did, and thinks, “That was so mean! He’s greedy!” Thoughts like these steal our moments. They take our minds away from their own shine.

We can help our children

By first empathizing with the pain their initial thoughts brought, and then helping them question the thoughts’ absoluteness, we open our childrens’ minds to seeing past their initial assumptions. If we do this consistently enough, they will start to do it on their own. These subtle, mind-shifting tools may help their lights shine a little more brightly as they find themselves “going more easy.”

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Adrianne Fadil Andrews

August 20, 1934 - February 8, 2024

Adrianne Fadil Andrews of Los Angeles passed away on ursday, February 8, 2024. Born on August 20, 1934, to loving and faithful parents Elias and Amelia (Naddra) Fadil, she was the fourth of ve children with three sisters and one brother.

As a child, Adrianne was beautiful, intelligent, good-hearted and dramatic, traits that described her throughout her life. She completed her bachelor’s degree in music education and elementary education at Baldwin-Wallace College (now University) in Berea, Ohio. Upon graduating, she worked as a teacher in the greater Cleveland area, teaching music to special needs children in addition to her regular classroom duties.

Adrianne was pursuing an advanced degree in music at Western Reserve University when in the summer of 1960 she met her husband, Robert Andrews of Los Angeles, at a church convention in Houston, Texas. It was love at rst sight.

ey were engaged by November of that year and married in April of 1961, settling in Southern California. Last April, Adrianne and Robert celebrated their sixty-second wedding anniversary.

Adrianne and Robert were active leaders in their Los Angeles church community. Adrianne’s service to St. Nicholas Orthodox Christian Cathedral was never-ending, including serving multiple terms on the Cathedral Council, participating in the work of the St. Nicholas Ladies and Altar societies, working on the Sweetheart Ball organizing committee, and planning many banquets and tributes at the local and national level.

At the Archdiocese level, she was a Life Member of the Order of St. Ignatius of Antioch. She planned several Archdiocese Conventions and two Patriarchal visits, adding her graceful touch and impeccable attention to detail to these events. Robert and Adrianne worked to secure and maintain the West Coast Chancery in Hancock Park, home of their Diocesan Bishop.

Adrianne was well-known for her angelic voice. In addition to singing in and directing church choirs, she sang for the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus as a contralto soloist under the direction of Robert Shaw, the famous choral conductor. Many have had the extraordinary pleasure of hearing her sing at events across the country.

Motherhood was another one of her many gi s. She raised four children and seven grandsons who knew her as their Grandmama. She was a generous nurturer of her godchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins. Her hospitality, wisdom, af-

fection, generosity, and storytelling were a comfort and a model for all.

Adrianne was a local leader who supported several nonpro t organizations in the Los Angeles area, including the local Parent Teacher Association, Hollygrove (a residential center for at-risk children), and Good Samaritan Hospital (now PIH). She was recognized by the Larchmont Chronicle as a Woman of Larchmont in 1997 for her community service. Her philanthropy extended beyond Los Angeles, supporting Orthodox Christian organizations in the U.S. and abroad, establishing the Bach Festival Fund at her alma mater, and supporting the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee.

She is preceded in repose by her parents Elias and Amelia Fadil, her sister Nazha and her brother Norman. She leaves behind her devoted husband Robert, her sisters Jean and Eleanore, sons Fr. Andrew (Kh. Ruth), John and Daniel (Mary) and her daughter Christina Worrall (Jonesy), along with her seven grandsons Nicholas, Robert Jones Jr., James, Christian, Christopher, Samuel and Matthew. She also leaves behind many extended family and friends who were recipients of her unconditional love, light, and care. May she rest with the saints and may her memory be eternal.

Services were held at St. Nicholas Antiochian Orthodox Christian Cathedral in Los Angeles on February 28. Interment will be on ursday, February 29 at noon at Forest Lawn, Glendale. In lieu of owers, donations may be made to St. Nicholas Cathedral. Adv.

MARLBOROUGH

By Avery Gough 12th Grade

March is filled with many exciting events and opportunities.

On the 5th, the Gallery Reception — Senior Thesis Exhibition will take place during lunch. Students will be given the opportunity to walk through Seaver Art Gallery and review the incredible art projects created by the talented artists at Marlborough.

The Winter Athletics Recognition Ceremony will take place on the 6th. For athletes, it is partic-

ularly gratifying to be celebrated and cheer on your teammates at the end of a season.

From the 7th through the 9th and the 14th through the 16th, the Marlborough Ensemble Theatre will put up a production of “Radium Girls.” Our sophomore, junior and senior performers will depict the true story of girls in the 1920s who were unknowingly poisoned and died from working in radium factories.

Our Improv troupe, the AHAs, will have its spring show on March 18. Audience participation at this event is always fantastic.

The last day of classes before Spring Break is on the 22nd. Some students will visit colleges during this window.

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CAMPBELL HALL

By Claire “Cal” Lesher 11th Grade

The month of March is springing ahead, and flowers are in full bloom. The smell of spring is in the air, and a break from school is around the corner!

First, the high school musi-

LARCHMONT CHARTER HG@SELMA

By Elsie Mohr 4th Grade

cal production, “The Pirates of Penzance” will have performances March 14, 15 and 16. The Campbell Hall art gallery is hosting the STEAM Exhibition 2024 with art pieces that were created in the Art of Engineering class. And, our Centering Latinx Voices and Narratives Symposium will be held at school March 9. What fun is ahead!

The Boys’ Volleyball, Golf and Track Field tryouts began, and teams will begin practices and

NEW COVENANT ACADEMY

By Sue Jung Park 11th Grade

games right away. Congrats to our Varsity Girls’ Soccer and Basketball team which is advancing to the second round of CIFSS playoffs. Congrats also, to our Boys’ Basketball team, which is headed to the quarterfinals. Go Teams!

Our Robotics season ended on a good note. The teams did well on the last competition.

I am wishing everyone a well deserved relaxing, fun spring break!

out and spend time with older classmen and their teachers. Through this camp brought everyone closer and was a memorable trip for all!

Happy Lunar New Year! We started February with a special Lunar New Year morning assembly. Students learned about Korean music and dances and even got the opportunity to watch dancers up close!

We also had a 14 Days of Kindness Challenge in February. A kindergarten class put together a goal for each day to work on kindness — like giving someone a hug and to playing with someone who is alone — all the way up to Valentine’s Day. On Feb. 14, each class set aside some time to pass out Valentines — or as we call them — Pal-entines, to classmates.

We begin March with the Larch Radness Jogathon where students run laps to raise money for our school. There are food trucks, a DJ and the whole Larchmont community is there to cheer us on. Even our mascot Timber runs a lap and does some pushups. Thank you for reading!

In celebration of Valentine’s Day, New Covenant Academy’s high school student council held its annual Valentine grams fundraiser! This fundraiser brought many smiles on Valentine’s Day when the grams were delivered! The school’s annual winter camp was from Feb. 14 through 16, and served as a great time for younger classmen to reach

One notable event that occurred was the school’s annual World Food Festival. Various groups of high school students hosted booths, representing different countries’ traditional foods and drinks. This year, the festival had various countries including China, South Korea, Greece, Japan, Argentina and many more! While the younger huskies had fun trading tickets for food and prizes, the upperclassmen enjoyed making their assigned country’s food.

TURNING POINT

By Lochlann O’Connell 8th Grade

house, often without notice, and sometimes they are not able to bring their clothes and personal items with them.

This past month Turning Point students collected new clothing to donate to Hope in a Suitcase, an organization that provides supplies for foster children. Grade 8 students participated in this drive after learning about foster care. We learned how children get moved from house to

PAGE ACADEMY

By Isabella Argiropoulos 8th Grade

Because we learned about our local, Los Angeles, foster care system, our class was motivated to have 100 percent participation in the drive. Additionally, we decorated the boxes that we sent the clothes in. This allowed us to share messages of support.

I love our annual Hope in a Suitcase drive because it makes me feel happy every time, knowing that I am helping a kid like me who is in need.

and display multiple projects for Black History Month, honoring the achievements of many Black and African Americans!

Hello my Larchmont neighbors! I hope you have all stayed safe and dry from the rain, mudslides and earthquake! We had a great turnout for the annual pancake breakfast for our families on Feb. 14. Student Council did a wonderful job with this years’ Valentine’s Grams and students showed off their red, pink and purple colors to celebrate Valentine’s Day! Students were able to present

Going into March Page students and families will be able to place orders for their Art to Remember masterpieces and work on their science fair projects.

There will be a lot of great reading for Read Across America Day (and week) as we finish our 3rd quarter. Green is the theme for the month and Student Council is planning some fun events for St Patrick’s Day and the first day of spring.

I hope everyone has a chance to enjoy the warmer weather and all that spring has to offer!

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THE CENTER FOR EARLY EDUCATION

By Griffin Miller 5th Grade

PILGRIM

By Allison Pak 10th Grade

Pilgrim

IMMACULATE HEART

By Emmelyne Lay

12th Grade

CEE recently held its annual book fair, one of the highlights of the school year! Parent volunteers fill the Community Center with rows and rows of books separated into different categories like comics, sports, gaming and more. In addition to displaying the books for us to see, the parents also help students find books they might like, and make suggestions for some new authors and genres.

This year, a CEE parent did a great job reading their new book to the entire community to kick off this year’s book fair. One of the best things about the fair is that students get money to spend on whatever books they want to buy, which is a great way to get kids and parents of all ages excited about reading.

It’s always exciting to buy new books and see what books your friends pick. Sometimes, students like to trade books after reading them, so there are lots of conversations about books during the days leading up to the event, and for many days after. The tradition is one everybody at CEE looks forward to each year, and the best part is it puts the fun in “fundraiser!”

OAKWOOD SCHOOL

By Charlotte Zabel 11th Grade

School started the month by celebrating Black History Month. The opening celebrations consisted of an all-school gathering with soul food, double Dutch jump roping and community time.

Bestselling authors Nicola and David Yoon visited Pilgrim. Nicola Yoon is the author of “Everything, Everything,” “The Sun is Also a Star,” and “Instructions for Dancing,” all of which were #1 New York Times bestsellers. She and her husband, David Yoon, co-publish Joy Revolution, a Random House Young Adult imprint dedicated to love stories starring people of color. She is also the first black woman to hit #1 on the New York Times Young Adult Bestseller list.

There was so much love on Valentine’s Day. Our seniors are fundraising for their senior trip and sold valentine grams and all the classes celebrated together.

We also celebrated the Lunar New Year and had dancing dragons at our all-school assembly. We shared Korean and Chinese cultures and had a Lantern Celebration during the biggest holiday in many Asian countries.

CHRIST THE KING

By Zoe Griswold and Anjella Guiza 7th Grade

Oakwood students are starting up the new semester with a new mindset and a whole lot of rain! Most of us who claim to love rainy, cold weather are quickly changing our minds after the constant pouring we’ve been experiencing, especially the sports kids who have had no option but to fit all of the sports practices in the gym!

Nevertheless, both girls’ and boys’ varsity soccer and basketball teams qualified for CIF championships, with the girls so far continuing to move forward!

We had the honor of welcoming Dolores Huerta to Oakwood to speak on a panel with the director of Girls Learn International and the Feminist Majority Foundation. This is in partnership with our Pad Project Club. The club will be traveling to the UN this year on its annual visit to speak at the Convention on the Status of Women

Black History Month festivities are also in full swing. Our most recent was on black and brown makeup and shade representation in the media. We also had an African food potluck for the whole school, which was a delicious and communal opportunity to try new foods that are important to our peers.

We started the month of February with a candlelight procession and Mass to celebrate Candlemas Day.

On Feb. 3, our A and B Academic Decathlon teams competed in the Academic Quiz Bowl, which was held at Cathedral High School. Our A team tied for first place in the Super Quiz, and won second place overall! Both teams placed in individual subjects. Team members are working hard in preparation for the Academic Decathlon, which will take place on March 2.

The basketball season is in full swing and our A, B and C teams are competing in games against other schools. Our 5th grade students enjoyed their field trip to the Griffith Park Observatory where they explored the planetarium.

To celebrate Mardi Gras, students dressed in purple, green and gold attire. On Feb. 14, we had Mass for Ash Wednesday and students received blessed ash. Love was also in the air as it was St. Valentine’s Day! We will wrap up the month with a kickoff assembly for our upcoming Fun Run.

February was a packed month for the Pandas! IH sent two fencers to the Junior Olympics in North Carolina, and our Varsity Basketball team reached late elimination rounds of playoffs. This success

HOLLYWOOD SCHOOLHOUSE

By Penny Yoon 6th Grade

was echoed by our Speech team, with sophomores Rihanna R. and Siena W. receiving first-place awards at the UHS tournament. Our Dance team received High Gold and Overall Awards for their performances at the EnerGy competition.

The senior class went on their final IH “Kairos” retreat and enjoyed reminiscing about their last four years together. This sisterhood was also celebrated with the Junior Ring Ceremony,

going well. We were split into groups and each group came up with a business and a product to sell, so we can raise money for our school.

during which each member of the junior class received class rings, engraved with the Immaculate Heart of Mary and their initials. These rings symbolize the Pandas reaching “upperclasswomen” status.

The school also honored Black History Month with a schoolwide celebration, watching dances and enjoying foods to honor and appreciate the contributions of African Americans in the United States.

Happy Black History month. At school, we’ve been doing a lot of projects and reading a lot of articles on prominent Black figures in history — Lonnie Johnson and Edna Lewis, for example. It’s been really fun to get to learn about all of these people. Almost every month celebrates one culture or another, and we always do some sort of activity to learn more about them, which I enjoy. I’ve gotten to learn about so many different types of inspiring people recently.

Lunar New Year was just a few days ago, and it was great. My family and I went to my uncle’s house and had Mandu soup while watching the Super Bowl. Lunar New Year is really fun because I get to spend time with my family, and I get to eat really good food.

Our Shark Tank projects are

My group and I are doing art

commissions and the response has been GREAT! Since they are custom orders, we can’t make each order beforehand, so we have been very, very busy. Still, it’s been so much fun working on them.

Park(let)

(Continued from Page 1)

local residents John Kaliski, Patty Lombard, Heather Duffy Boylston and Gary Gilbert.

A concept for comment

Now, the LBA has received some concept renderings that it wants to share with neighbors, shoppers and others to learn their reactions to an idea. That idea is to permanently take one parallel parking space along the Larchmont curb, between the driveways going in and out of the city surface parking lot on the west side of the Boulevard, and to incorporate that (plus two existing angle parking spaces behind the clock and flagpole) into an attractive gathering place with seats and tables, including standup tables.

The concept drawings,

created just to stimulate discussion and feedback, also anticipate improving with seating and dining tables the two current planter beds on the north and south ends of the parking lot adjoining the sidewalk. The conceived improvements at those two locations are triangular shaped and do not require the loss of any adjacent parking spaces in the city lot.

Farmers market

A recent LBA board of directors discussion also emphasized that any possible “Larchmont Central Park (let)” must be complementary to, and not be competitive with, the Sunday and Wednesday farmers markets on the city surface parking lot. Melissa Farwell, a representative of the farmers market’s organizer, and also a member of the LBA board, said that her compa-

ny supports this parklet idea because it will be helpful to the market and its vendors. It will provide a place for market shoppers to sit and even consume market purchases. By slightly extending the line of a few vendor tents along the curb lane to the south, there will be no reduction in the number of market vendors on Sundays. “Everybody will benefit if this sort of parklet improvement can be made at the city parking lot,” concluded Farwell.

Street furniture

Romi Cortier, also an LBA board member and head of the association’s Beautification Committee, even has been contemplating doing a test case installation to get community feedback about replacing the existing, old benches on the Boulevard. Keep your eyes open, something may happen soon.

Help make ‘Prom Day’ a success

By Nona Sue Friedman

The Assistance League of Los Angeles (ALLA) is hosting its annual Prom Day on Thurs., March 14, at Emerson College, 5960 Sunset Blvd. The event is dedicated to outfitting homeless high school junior and senior girls with clothing and accessories for

Cortier also says, of the concept of having a more unified look for the street, “It may reduce the demand of businesses to put their al fresco dining spaces in our parking areas. If we create an environment where seating is plentiful, then it might also allow us to ask ‘grab and go’ businesses to surrender those parking spaces.”

Community support

Participating with the LBA in coming up with the con-

their special evening. ALLA is looking for seamstresses or tailors who can volunteer at the event to make the dresses fit just perfectly. Of course, if you would like to help with a monetary or wish list donation, please visit assistanceleaguela.org/ prom-day.

cept sketches for sharing with the community was the Windsor Square Association (WSA). The WSA underwrote the cost of producing the concept drawings. Jeffrey Smith and his team at JMS Design Associates, a landscape architecture firm active locally, came up with the drawings to stimulate public discussion of the parklet concept and preliminary landscape design approaches.

(Please turn to Page 19)

A SINGLE PARALLEL parking spot between the “in” and “out” driveways of the city surface parking lot would be claimed as a seating and dining area surrounding the existing large cus tree.

FARMERS MARKET representatives say that a proposed improvement like the Larchmont Central Park(let) would be helpful to the market and its vendors. t would provide a place for market shoppers to sit and even consume market purchases.

ADDITIONAL SEATING can be added at the north and south without taking any parking spaces because of the existing angle parking. In the center, new the public pedestrian space would surround the existing fagpole and Wilshire Rotary clock. Renderings by JMS Design Associates

Park(let)

Park(let)

(Continued from Page 18)

(Continued from Page 18

One of us writers of this article (both LBA board members) saw a similar parklet improvement in Sonoma County’s town of Healdsburg last summer. Attractive spaces for sitting and dining have been created, adjacent to the curbs and sidewalks, on local streets in that town.

Just concepts!

The writer of this article (an LBA board member) saw a similar parklet improvement in Sonoma County’s town of Healdsburg last summer. Attractive spaces for sitting and dining have been created, adjacent to the curbs and sidewalks, on local streets in that town. board these were created just to stimulate discussion. “If we see wellspring ty support for exploring the LBA president John Winther, “the specific gestions (such as what vine might go on a dividing low or species tree

LBA board members emphasize that these images were created just to stimulate discussion. “If we see a wellspring of community support for exploring the matter further,” says LBA president John Winther, “the LBA will solicit specific suggestions (such as what vine might go on a dividing low slump stone wall, or what species tree might be added for additional shade, or what color should be the paint on

for additional shade, or what color should be the paint on the street furniture or whatever).” He adds that, “With community ideas in hand, the association would work with the landscape architects to come up with more refined drawings that could be priced and presented to potential city partners and private donors to see what might be done to actually install a Larchmont Central Park(let).”

the street furniture or whatever).” He adds that, “With community ideas in hand, the association would work with the landscape architects to come up with more refined drawings that could be priced and presented to potential city partners and private donors to see what might be done to actually install a Larchmont Central Park(let).”

If you readers have comments or suggestions, please email them to Romi Cortier at romicortier@yahoo.com.

If you readers have comments or suggestions, please email them to Mr. Cortier at lbaromicortier@gmail.com.

The Larchmont Chronicle and the Larchmont Buzz are both sharing this news and the concept images — hot off the drawing boards — with our readers. See: larchmontbuzz.com and larchmontchronicle.com.

The Larchmont Chronicle and the Larchmont Buzz (of which writer Patty Lombard is co-publisher and co-editor with Elizabeth Fuller) are both sharing this news and the concept images — hot off the drawing boards — with our readers. See: larchmontbuzz.com and larchmontchronicle.com.

Comedy, cocktails are at the Improv March 17

Comedy, cocktails are at the Improv March 17

“Bill

By Casey Russell

Devlin’s

By Casey Russell

“Bill

Comedy & Cocktails” is back March 17, for its 20th Anniversary St. Patrick’s Day Show. Devlin started the show as a way to honor his late father, whose favorite holiday was St. Patrick’s Day.

Devlin’s

Comedy & Cocktails” is back March 17, for its 20th Anniversary St. Patrick’s Day Show. Devlin started the show as a way to honor his late father, whose favorite holiday was St. Patrick’s Day.

appearances by surprise special guests.

The Hollywood Improv LAB, 8162 Melrose Ave., is the venue for the night’s comedy. Doors will open with live music at 6:30 p.m. For tickets, visit improv. com/Hollywood.

The Hollywood Improv LAB, 8162 Melrose Ave., is the venue for the night’s comedy. Doors will open with live music at 6:30 p.m. For tickets, visit improv. com/Hollywood.

The comedian remembers his family going allout to celebrate the holiday. They started the day with clover-shaped pancakes, beer was dyed green and the whole family — eight siblings plus parents — took part in a St. Paddy’s Day parade under a family banner.

The comedian remembers his family going all-out to celebrate the holiday. They started the day with clover-shaped pancakes, beer was dyed green and the whole family — eight siblings plus parents — took part in a St. Paddy’s Day parade under a family banner.

This year’s show will carry forward the feeling of fun Devlin remembers with a night of laughs and shenanigans, featuring Devlin’s comedy along with

This year’s show will carry forward the feeling of fun Devlin remembers with a night of laughs and shenanigans, featuring Devlin’s comedy along with appearances by surprise special guests.

BILL DEVLIN invites you to St. Patrick’s Day “Comedy and Cocktails.”

of Healdsburg in Sonoma County wine country.

REAL-LIFE EXAMPLE of reclaiming bits of the street for public seating and dining comes from the town of Healdsburg in Sonoma County wine country.