LC Section One 08 2023

Larchmont Chronicle

Hospital to rise at former Olympia site

By Suzan Filipek

Construction is underway for a new neuropsychiatric hospital at the site of the former Olympia Medical Center at 5900 Olympic Blvd., which closed in 2021.

The new Stewart and Lynda Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital at UCLA in Mid-Wilshire will replace and expand the one in Westwood.

The 175,000-square-foot new hospital will include both new construction and reconstruction of the existing building as outlined by architectural firm HOK and McCarthy Building Companies, according to the UCLA Health project website.

119-bed facility

The 119-bed facility will cater to patients suffering from mental and behavioral health issues. The current 75 inpatient beds at UCLA will be relocated to the new facility, and the vacated space at the Westwood site will be used for medical and surgical care for more pediatric and adult patients at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center.

The estimated $450 million project in Mid-Wilshire is expected to be completed in spring 2026.

New leader at Wilshire Rotary takes helm

By Suzan Filipek

Janice Prior was sworn in as new president of the Wilshire Rotary Club at a ceremony July 1 at Buca Di Beppo restaurant at Universal City.

Prior joined the organization with some trepidation 20 years ago, she told us. She has gone on to serve on the board multiple times, and she has grown to appreciate the group’s global efforts to eradicate polio.

“It’s amazing to be a part of an organization that can say that,” Prior said.

She also appreciates the club’s efforts closer to home, such as collecting food and money to help supply a local food bank. “That was a huge hands-on highlight moment.

“We can come together and make things happen rather quickly,” she adds.

What she likes most about the 61-member group is, “You

Get ready for Back to School

Our annual Back to School section in September will highlight students, faculty and schools! Advertising deadline is Mon., Aug. 14. For more information, contact Pam Rudy, 323462-2241, ext. 11.

don’t get tied to one specific cause. You can do multiple things and pivot to what’s most needy.”

Among her goals in the coming year is getting the word out that the Rotary is not your grandparents’ club.

“It’s often joked that it’s the best-kept secret, so we’re trying to get the word out… the face of Rotary is changing. It’s service-minded professionals.” Pretty much like Prior herself.

Prior, who grew up in the area, lives in historic Lafayette Square with her husband Chris and their teenage son and daughter. Her parents, Elsa and Larry Gillham, are longtime Wilshire Rotarians.

Prior is director of sales at Ampersand, a TV advertising and technology company.

Joyce Kleifield stepped down after serving a two-year presidency.

By Casey Russell Duer,

the stretch performance denim pants store, opened in mid-July at 129 N. Larchmont Blvd. The space briefly was the home of vintage clothing store Pola and, before that, Face Haus, both occupying this former extra dining room of Larchmont stalwart Le Petit Greek. Anna Davidson, director of retail for Duer, told us that lots of people have been coming by, and business has been steady. Duer is unique in that its apparel is made from plants and recycled materials.

Up the street, just north of Beverly Boulevard and a mainstay of the neighborhood for more than 22 years, is Larchmont Hair and Nails at 417 N. Larchmont Blvd. The salon now has a new owner, Helen Yeom, who has done extensive work to modernize and expand the establishment. A grand opening was held on June 25.

When asked how business is going so far, Yeom told us it’s been good. “We have more hair dressers and manicurists now. Everybody likes that it’s

DUER employees work in the recently-opened location.

Diners can visit restaurants on Larchmont Boulevard at HopeNet’s 31st annual Taste of Larchmont on Mon., Sept. 18, from 6 to 9 p.m. Enter under a colorful balloon arch — located by the Clock Tower — to receive your “passport.” Money raised supports local food pantries. Tickets usually sell out. Get yours at hopenet.org.

SEE HISTORY “through the windshield of the car” with docent-led tours at the Petersen Automotive Museum. Above, docent Diane Isaacs receives an annual

for

Duer, ‘Hair and Nails’

n Joyce Kleifield steps down after two years

NEW PRESIDENT Janice Prior was sworn in July 1. At left is Past District Governor of Rotary International, Scot Clifford.

UCLA to open mental health facility

AERIAL VIEW of the new Stewart and Lynda Resnick Neuropsychiatric Hospital at UCLA in Mid-Wilshire.

Editorial

By John Welborne

Ice Cream and Cookies Land — then and now

When I was growing up in Windsor Square in the 1950s and 1960s, you could get ice cream in the Larchmont shopping block at Baskin-Robbins 31 Flavors. In my years living here, the Baskin-Robbins store was in two different locations, one on each side of the Boulevard. (We also could get donuts at Winchell’s, now the Coldwell Banker Realty office on the southwest corner of Beverly Boulevard.)

The specialty bakery where we would obtain fresh bread and cookies was Van de Kamp’s, located where Terroni restaurant soon will replace Vernetti.

Today, you can buy an ice cream cone or cup of ice cream at any of four locations in that block on Larchmont, and you can get cookies and cakes at three, soon to be four, bakeries, including the latest one with a seemingly endless line of cookie purchasers.

Of course, in days gone by, one also could buy fresh fruit, vegetables, fish, meat and other groceries daily at numerous stores on Larchmont, including at Balzer’s / Jurgensen’s and at the small Safeway located where Rite Aid is today.

Is what we have now “progress”?

UNITED TO KEEP OUR CITY LIVABLE

The State of California is requiring LA to find enough zoning capacity to accommodate 450,000 new housing units by 2029. This is enough housing to accommodate more than 1 million people in the next eight years. The City is embarking on a major rezoning effort (Housing Element of the General Plan) that will include adaptive reuse of existing buildings, use of public lands and rezoning commercial corridors as well as expanding developer incentives that allow for increased density and streamlining the approval processes. But this rezoning also targets massive rezoning of single-family neighborhoods.

LA Planning has clearly stated there is enough zoning currently to meet 230,000 units which leaves the city the need to find zoning for 255,000 units in order to meet the State mandate. But the Planning Department’s Housing Element is proposing rezoning for 1.4 million units. To reach this absurd number, Planning is upzoning large areas of single-family homes.

United Neighbors (https://www.unitedneighbors.net/)

is a statewide organization made up of renters, homeowners and community groups, and it includes our Association and President, Cindy Chvatal Keane. It was created to inform neighborhood organizations of what is happening with state laws that impact neighborhoods and how to find better “community based” solutions for adding much needed affordable housing without destroying single-family neighborhoods or low density multi-family neighborhoods. Using the city’s own data, United Neighbors found Planning has identified three times more housing capacity (780,00 units) than is required by state law. Planning does not need to touch single-family or low density mulitifamily neighborhoods to meet the required housing needs.

United Neighbors is now working with our and other neighborhoods throughout Los Angeles, our councilperson and city government to craft new area-specific options for meeting housing targets. These targets would preserve our beautiful, historic and affordable neighborhoods.

But we must act now and get our Councilmember’s attention. The city is in the process of finalizing a draft of its plan, scheduled to be released in the fall. The Association is encouraging the adoption of “Community Based Planning Solutions” that will provide more equitable and affordable housing that will preserve all the communities of Los Angeles while enhancing livability for all. Stay tuned for how you can become involved!

Visit the website www.HancockPark.org to find out what’s going on and how you can participate.

Calendar

Tues., Aug. 8 — Mid City West Neighborhood Council board meeting is 6:30 p.m. at Pan Pacific Park Senior Center, 141 S. Gardner St., midcitywest.org.

Wed., Aug. 9 — Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council board meeting, 6:30 p.m., at the Ebell of Los Angeles at 743 S. Lucerne Blvd., greaterwilshire.org.

Thurs., Aug. 31 — Delivery of the September issue of the Larchmont Chronicle

Letters to the Editor

Short-term parking?

How many of those cars parked in the center lane stay for an extended period of time?

[“Parking in the center lane on Larchmont is not legal,” June 2023]. What is considered an extended period of time?

While observing the vehicles, most / many of the people are picking up food / drink for people that have ordered online. The people wanting to earn some extra income have little choice but to park in the center. The UPS / FedEx drivers have no choice but to park in the center. As most people know, parking in this area is bad.

Why isn’t there feedback about the sidewalks being taken over by outside dining?  It is not easy at times walking the Boulevard. Time of day and day of the week have a lot to do with the concerns.

If / when the city addresses one problem, we all know that someone will complain. The wheel continues to turn.

Stuart Fine St. Andrews Square

Larchmont Chronicle

Founded in 1963 by Jane Gilman and Dawne P. Goodwin

Publisher and Editor

John H. Welborne

Managing Editor

Suzan Filipek

Contributing Editor

Jane Gilman

Staff Writers

Talia Abrahamson

Casey Russell

Helene Seifer

Advertising Director

Pam Rudy

Advertising Sales including Classifieds

Caroline Tracy

Art Director

Tom Hofer

Circulation Manager

Nona Sue Friedman

Accounting

Jill Miyamoto

606 N. Larchmont Blvd., #103 Los Angeles, CA 90004 323-462-2241

larchmontchronicle.com

Congrats to Warriors

Regarding your July story [“Wilshire Warriors 8U All-Stars win tournament”]

— they did great!

Brad A. Rehak West Adams

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.

Hospital

(Continued from page 1)

Mixed-use buildings

Also in Mid-Wilshire, located just two blocks south of the under-construction Wilshire / La Brea subway station, new housing and retail is planned to open soon at 850 S. La Brea Ave. The six-story Element Investments project includes 53 apartments above 3,000 square feet of ground-level commercial space and basement parking.

The podium-type building was designed by Open Architects.

A similar six-story, podium-style mixed-use building with 53 apartments above commercial space and subterranean parking was completed by Wiseman Residential at 838 – 840 S. La Brea.

Uriu & Associates designed the Wiseman building with one- and two-bedroom units with rents beginning at $2,400 a month.

New shops

(Continued from page 1) big and clean. All the clients are so kind.” Yeom said she is pleased to be getting a lot of new clients. THE REDESIGNED Larchmont Hair and Nails is spacious and bright.

‘Where will you travel this summer?’

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

“I just got back from Mexico City. I was there for a week, and it was great!”

Jenny Miyasaki and Miles Windsor Village

“We might go to Europe without the kids — maybe to Rome and the Amalfi Coast. Or we might go to the Big Island of Hawaii. We’re also thinking of doing an end-ofsummer trip to Napa Valley.”

TK Terukina, Ryan Morgan, Kalena and Kiana Hancock Park

“Well, I’m going to London to visit someone I met in Costa Rica last year. I’m nervous and excited.”

Diahnna Baxter and Zoey Windsor Village

“We already got our summer travel in. We took a road trip from early May to mid-June all the way to Indiana to visit my family. There’s nothing so beautiful as a Midwest spring into summer!”

Rebecca Klingler and Ernie Lee Park La Brea

Hollywood Bowl; ‘A Case for Love;’ Getty House reception

The 2023 Hollywood Bowl season is underway, and many locals have been enjoying “summer under the stars.” In early July, there were thousands of glowing lightsabers as Los Angeles showed up to enjoy conductors Gustavo Dudamel and John Williams lead the Los Angeles Philharmonic in a three-day celebration of Williams’ music. The sold-out July 9 crowd was thrilled to hear many of 91-year-old Williams’ most iconic selections, including pieces from “Star Wars,” “Jurassic Park,” “Schindler’s List,” “E.T.” and “Raiders of the Lost Ark.” The evening commenced with Dudamel conducting. Then Williams walked onto the stage to the thunderous applause of fanboys and fangirls (including me) who cheered the maestro and all that he has contributed to some of Hollywood’s most popular films of all time. For an encore, Dudamel and Williams sparred onstage to “The Imperial March” from “Star Wars,” with their very own lightsabers (that occasionally

SECTION ONE

Around

doubled as batons to conduct the orchestra), thrilling the crowd that roared in approval.

• • •

Lots of neighbors headed to the Fine Arts Theatre in Beverly Hills to preview a new film, “ A Case for Love ” on July 10. Hancock Park resident Carl Anderson has been talking for nearly two years about the production that he and other volunteers now have seen to the finish. The film shows how the practice of unselfish love has, in the words of Episcopalian bishop Michael Curry, “the power to transform each of us, those around us, and by

extension, the world.” Locals seen in the packed theater included Neil and Vicky Martin and Jenny and Bill Fain, and all agreed that the film’s depiction of unselfish love, something rooted in ancient texts of the Christian, Jewish and Muslim faith traditions, resonated with them in this film created in response to the growing divisiveness in society. Learn more at: gracebasedfilms.org.

• • •

More than 300 guests of Mayor Karen Bass and the Getty House Foundation gathered in the back yard of Windsor Square’s Getty House for a reception in honor of the Los Angeles Consular Corps on July 19. The open tent provided shade for the warm evening that featured master of ceremonies business leader Stephen Chung introducing the Mayor who then introduced her

good friend, Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield. The latter is the Representative of the United States to the United Nations and is serving this month as the president of the Security Council.

A career diplomat with

35 years of service, Thomas-Greenfield served as Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs from 2013 to 2017. While in Los Angeles, she delivered keynote remarks welcoming new U.S.

(Please turn to page 4)

THE HOLLYWOOD BOWL welcomed about 17,000 people on each of three nights for composer John Williams concerts with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Los Angeles Master Chorale, and Gustavo Dudamel. Photo by Sondi Sepenuk

MAYOR KAREN BASS welcomes consular guests and others to the shade of a tent on the Getty House tennis court.

Around the Town

(Continued from page 3) citizens at a naturalization ceremony. See: tinyurl.com/3zz4buyf.

• • •

A private room at Angelini Osteria, filled with friends, family and neighbors on July 8, was the scene of a 50th anniversary party organized by Bruce Doering of Ridge-

wood-Wilton to surprise his wife Lynn. The Doering Family has lived in Ridgewood-Wilton since 1986.

A highlight of the dinner was Bruce Doering regaling the guests with a 15-minute synopsis of the couple’s courtship and elopement.

• • •

The Wilshire Ebell Theatre was the location of a July 24 memorial sendoff to Brookside

AMBASSADOR Linda Thomas-Greenfield was introduced by Mayor Karen Bass and spoke to about 300 Getty House guests.

native, celebrated magician and Hollywood TV writer and producer Milt Larsen, who died in May at age 92. He was the co-founder of Hollywood’s famous Magic Castle. Members of the Larsen family have been performing magic continuously since the mid ’20s.

In 1942, Milt’s parents

purchased their Brookside home, Brookledge. Built in 1933, the property includes, behind the main house, a small theater that became an informal gathering place for the top echelon of the magic community — prior to the opening of The Magic Cas-

tle in 1963. It was from this Brookside family home that Larsen walked four blocks to Los Angeles High School, graduating in 1949.

• • •

The Ebell of Los Angeles will open its doors to the pub-

(Please turn to page 6)

Save Money … Save Time and Stay Cool!

“An Oasis in the City”

Your parking worries are over when you use Larchmont’s Underground Parking Garage

Sponsored by

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS of marriage, in the front row (left to right): Nancy Bolger, Rebecca Morellato, Tani Doering, Lynn Doering, Suzette Cardin, Katie Doering, Joe Braun, Loyce Braun, Nona Friedman. Back row (left to right): Ed Cardin, host Bruce Doering, Tom Bolger, Kathy Dracup, Tom Doering, Brad Haehnel, Eric Puestow, Alan Wolovitch and Kay Baker.

Windsor Square Block Captain Program Is a Civic Asset

Would you like to get to know your neighbors better while also increasing your collective safety? If so, the Windsor Square Block Captain Program is for you! All Windsor Square residents are invited to participate in the community-building Block Captain Program. Here’s how and why we think you’ll care.

First and foremost — if your block doesn’t have a Block Captain — volunteer to be your block’s captain. Block Captain responsibilities include keeping updated lists of block residents; forwarding e-mails regarding crime, public safety information and emergency preparedness; welcoming new neighbors to the block; and — here’s where it gets pretty fun — tapping into an upcoming Windsor Square Association program to support you in throwing your very own block party! There will be more details on this in the September issue.

What if you support these goals of improving neighborliness and neighborhood safety but don’t have the time to be a Block Captain yourself? Find out who is your Block Captain and exchange contact information. Attend any block meetings. Alert your Block Captain to crime or other concerns you might have.

If you are a resident of Windsor Square and want to make a difference, or if you have questions about the Block Captain Program, e-mail blockcaptains@windsorsquare. org, and you will hear back from one of our Block Captain Co-Chairs, Angie Szentgyorgyi or Tracey Durning.

Water

Drought Reminder: If you do not want to be subject to mandatory water restrictions, please follow the current voluntary guidelines. Even though these guidelines have been widely publicized, many people are ignoring them. We all will pay if we don’t all pitch in. Go to tinyurl.com/3vt46m5d to learn more.

Newsletter

Did you get the WSA newsletter last month? If not, head to our website at windsorsquare.org, and subscribe today … to keep up with neighborhood issues and events.

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.

Update on homelessness in CD13

Did you know that the city has fewer than 400 interim housing / shelter beds for the more than 3,000 people living on the streets of District 13? I think we all agree that this is nowhere near enough.

And to make matters worse, when we took office, there were up to 58 empty beds on any given night.  That meant that nearly 15 percent of the beds available to unhoused people in our district were going completely unused some nights.

Our homelessness team shifted the approach to homelessness by prioritizing housing and services. The team was able to jump into action and fill the empty beds with folks who needed them.

What’s happening now?

Now, the interim housing / shelter bed occupancy is at 100 percent, with dozens of folks in the queue and even more who have accepted housing referrals. Once a bed opens up, our homelessness team is able to fill it immediately because the team is on the ground everyday visiting every encampment in the district, coordinating service providers and helping unhoused residents access housing and other assistance.

What’s next?

As mentioned before, 400 beds for 3,000 unhoused people are not nearly enough. We’re approving and constructing a new tiny home village to add to that capacity, plus, we’re in the planning process for more interim housing options from tiny

CD 13 Council Report by

Hugo Soto-Martinez

homes to buying / master-leasing hotels in the district.

But temporary housing is just that — temporary. We need much more housing — especially affordable housing — in CD13 and across Los Angeles. To make this happen, we plan to introduce two motions

in city council. One motion will be to accelerate affordable housing construction in Hollywood. The other will aim to make it easier to build affordable housing on public land. We didn’t get into this crisis overnight, and it will likely take many years to fully reverse the decades of disinvestment and neglect that have led us here. But by leading with services and building more affordable housing, we can make sustainable change.

CD 5 Council Report will appear next month

Around the Town

(Continued from page 4)

lic on Sun., Sept. 24 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. for free tours and to share information about the historic building, upcoming programs and membership. At this Community Open House, visitors are

invited to explore the main clubhouse, courtyard garden and Ebell Theatre and to learn about the various programs and charitable endeavors undertaken by the group. 743 S. Lucerne Blvd., 323-931-1277. tinyurl.com/mupdhyhk.

And now you’re in the Larchmont know!

EBELL OPEN HOUSE visitors last year arrived through the front door into the club’s beautiful two-story-high lounge.

Photo by Aya Mac Photography

Sherry Bonanno

Lynn McCarthy

Gabrielle Bullock

Christine Meyer

Women of Larchmont

By John Welborne

We first published the annual Women of Larchmont special section during the third year of the Larchmont Chronicle, the enterprise that Jane Gilman and Dawne Goodwin founded in 1963. On the cover of its first Women of Larchmont section, the paper stated: “This annual section is a tribute to these women, who, through their gifts of time, money, ideas and talent have enriched our city.” Noble and accurate thoughts then — and now!

So, here we are today, still sharing proudly the stories of amazing local women and what they do for the community. (In the 2020 special section, we sought to list all of the “Women of Larchmont” for the first 55 years. Visit that issue here: tinyurl.com/5nrk7ens.)

Cover photos by Bill Devlin

By Suzan Filipek

Sherry Bonanno is passionate about feeding the poor, the homeless, the hungry. After all, everyone has to eat every day.

Serving a meal is also a way in, a means to share a smile or a kindness, to gain trust and maybe even help someone find shelter and address a myriad of other needs.

“Food is the connection to me. We look at food as an entry to other things.”

Bonanno joined the Hollywood Food Coalition (HoFoCo) in 2000, when it was all-volunteer and called the Food Coalition.

She soon found serving food was only a small part of what was on the menu.

She’s helped people down on their luck find shelter, such as one man who was dropped off on a Friday night in a wheelchair with nowhere to go.

Bonanno managed to find

the 60ish-year-old gentleman a hotel room, then wrangled through months of bureaucracy to settle him in low-cost housing, where he resides today.

“We’re an emergency need provider,” she explains. “We provide food every night.” HoFoCo offers about 200 meals per night, plus weekly medical care, and they recently got a grant for a wellness program.

Bonanno’s journey to HoFoCo began as a way to broaden her two young sons’ horizons outside the bubble of their Brookside home and surrounding community.

Roots in Panama

Bonanno grew up in Panama, where her father was a sea captain on the Panama Canal. Colorful ceramics and other artifacts she acquired in her teenage years in Central America fill her 1925 Spanish Colonial Revival home.

She loved the tropical country, where she remembers feeling safe, including on her travels outside of the American enclave where she lived. Cooking Bonnano also likes to cook, so it seemed natural to begin at HoFoCo as part of the Wednesday crew cooking meals with repurposed food from restaurants, grocery stores and farms, among other sources.

Bonanno has donned many hats, from cooking meals to serving multiple terms as board president at the group now headquartered at the Salvation Army campus on

Hollywood Boulevard.

Like many who arrive in Los Angeles, Bonanno had not planned to stay when she came to attend USC, where she graduated with a master’s degree in occupational therapy. (Her husband, Tom Dunlap, is a retired attorney.)

After graduation, she worked and volunteered at her boys’ schools — Echo Horizon and Windward — and she was involved with the Ebell of Los Angeles. In the beginning, her forays to HoFoCo were one night per week.

As her children grew, “I started doing more. I didn’t set out to run the Hollywood Food Coalition. I’m just a good volunteer,” she laughs.

She later was hired as HoFoCo’s first salaried executive director just prior to the pandemic, in 2020.

She passed the baton to Arnali Ray in 2022. “She’s been phenomenal,” Bonanno says, adding that Ray’s years of experience will help the Coa-

lition move to the next stage.

“It’s a strategic move. You can only grow and organize so much with an all-volunteer crew,” explains Bonanno, who will continue as an advisor on special projects.

Special projects

Her ongoing projects at HoFoCo include ridding the program of much of the complicated layers of bureaucracy.

“I’ve always wanted to serve the community better and not to have such an institutional feel where there’s a lot of rules and paperwork.

“Part of the point is to make it no-barrier. If you need help, come here and let’s see what we can do to start helping you.”

Bonanno is also seeking a site for a warehouse to hold the rescued food in HoFoCo’s Community Exchange program, which has grown from recovering 248,000 pounds a year to 3 million pounds annually since COVID-19.

Right now, a generous landlord has temporarily donated a vacated warehouse on Vine Street.

In semi-retirement, Bonanno works in her garden, which has benefited from landscape and architecture and horticulture classes she has taken at UCLA. And she’s readying to paint over the yellow shade in the hallway.

“I like to do a lot of stuff myself… I always have projects.”

While her boundless energy has simmered in recent years, she’s added reading up on

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SHERRY BONANNO

Gabrielle Bullock: building diversity and inclusion from early on

By Helene Seifer

Most 12-year-old girls are interested in friends, listening to music and, maybe, boys. When Gabrielle Bullock was 12, she was interested in changing the world — one building at a time.

“I had some artistic ability through heredity,” the Windsor Square resident and Fellow of the American Institute of Architects says, noting that her mother was somewhat artistic. Although she grew up in the leafy Riverdale section of the Bronx, she was aware that not everyone was so lucky. “Traversing the city and seeing the public housing and how people of color lived, it impacted me greatly,” Bullock explains. “I knew then that I wanted to be an architect.” She continues, “Everybody deserves a beautiful place to live, a healthy place to live.”

Bullock was the second Black woman to graduate from the architecture department of the prestigious Rhode Island School of Design. She then joined architecture firms that focused on designing affordable housing. Unfortunately, they went belly-up during the recession in the mid-1980s. “I decided if there isn’t housing getting built, I could still do purpose-driven buildings. I didn’t have to completely divorce myself from my mission.”

Bullock joined the New York-based architectural firm Russo & Sonder, which eventually was acquired by her current firm, Perkins & Will. She focused her practice on health care and ways in which design could impact health. For example, when working on the design of the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, she considered the value of natural light: every patient room is infused with daylight, and every hallway ends in a window to let in light. She brought a similar sensibility to her work on the Beckman Research Center at City of Hope and USC’s Health Sciences Campus.

When Bullock became managing director and a principal at Perkins & Will, she often found herself to be the only woman and only person of color in the room. As Bullock explains, “Black architects are 2-3 percent [of all architects]. Black women architects represent .2 percent. It is not a terribly diverse profession.” Additionally, she noticed a lack of cultural competence when working on a project in Saudi Arabia, a country with vastly different needs and expectations than those typically found in the United States. She believed her profession needed to be more welcoming to a greater variety

of architects who could bring unique viewpoints to solving problems in differing communities here and abroad. Consequently, 10 years ago, she created her position of Director of Global Diversity to address justice, equity, diversity and inclusion — both for the culture within Perkins & Will and in how its architects engage with clients.

An example of that engagement in action is Bullock’s latest undertaking, Destination Crenshaw, an under-construction 1.3-mile series of connected parks and outdoor art exhibits celebrating the history and culture of the Black community — located on either side of Crenshaw Boulevard near Slauson Avenue. Community members were integrally involved in decisions about what the project needed to accomplish. “We’re partners, not saviors,” Bullock states

about her professional involvement. Begun in 2017, Part One is scheduled to open early 2024.

Bullock will be the first to tell you that passion for her architecture career fills her hours, but she loves the time she spends with her husband, actor Rocky Carroll (perhaps best known for his role on “NCIS”) and their 22-year-old daughter Elissa. She loves to

travel and enjoys relaxing at their Palm Springs weekend house. She admits, however, that, “Putzing around the house is my favorite part.”

She wasn’t always a committed Angeleno. When Bullock moved to Los Angeles from New York in 1995 to be with her then boyfriend, now husband, she was skeptical. They tried several neighborhoods and kept moving east until they found a house in Windsor Square. Ever the architect, she was attracted to the “classic but subtle Spanish style of the house,” but what really spoke to her was the neighborhood. “This area is walkable and much more diverse than other areas,” she explains. “It reminds me more of New York than any other place.”

In fact, Bullock regularly walks to Larchmont Boulevard to “pop into all the boutiques” and eat at Le Pain

Quotidien, get bagels at Sam’s and go to A Silver Lining to frame the pen-and-ink and pencil portraits that she draws of people she knows, such as her husband, daughter, sister and herself. “I’m fascinated with the face,” she states. In spite of being as busy as she is, Bullock has found time to serve several professional organizations and on the board of Girl Scouts of America, for which she did pro bono work to design their Camp Lakota in Frazier Park. She also served on the USC Architectural Guild board and delivered the 2019 commencement address to the USC Architecture School. Mentoring future generations of architects is important to her, and she has frequently made presentations at other Southern California architecture and design schools, such as California Baptist Uni(Please turn to page 15)

GABRIELLE BULLOCK

Women trailblazing in Windsor Square for 138 years

By Jane Gilman

Women have played a major role in the 138-year history of Windsor Square.

One of the first women to figure in that history has a street named after her. She was Lorraine Rowan Cooper, whose father, Robert A. Rowan, headed the investment firm that marketed the neighborhood. She married John Sherman Cooper, a U.S. senator. Sen. Cooper also served as U.S. Ambassador to India, Nepal and East Germany. The Washington Post said of Lorraine: “She graced the

Washington political and social scene with notable style and wit.”

In 1962, Dorothy (Buff)

Chandler moved to Lorraine Boulevard from Pasadena. She was the force behind the fundraising for The Music Center. She also was hostess to visiting presidents, ambassadors and diplomats during her husband Norman’s long tenure as publisher of the Los Angeles Times.

Then there was Beatrice Ward Challiss, who became the first woman to be active in a leadership role in the

Windsor Square Association. Third Street (the street, not the school) received special treatment from Catherine Crahan. She launched a one-woman crusade to have trees planted along that street from Wilton Place to Larchmont Boulevard in 1987. She got permission from the city to plant 149 liquid amber trees in the parkways there, as well as on Larchmont north to First Street. She hired a fire truck to water the trees. Unfortunately, some trees died and were replaced by

magnolia trees.

In 1980, Barbara McRae was tired of noise, litter, drugs and prostitution in and around Robert Burns Park. So she began writing letters of complaint to city officials. She lived directly south of the park on Van Ness Avenue. As a result, the city built a 12-foot wall between the park and neighboring homes, and park rangers began patrolling the park.

Linda McKnight was instrumental in suggesting the plan for the Larchmont Boulevard Median between First and Third streets. The successful fundraising for the project, which included landscaping and a monument sign, was spearheaded by Carolyn Ramsay.

Margy Hudson, Priscilla Wright and Mary Pickhardt were among the leaders who, with the support of many residents, succeeded in getting the city to adopt the Windsor Square Historic Preservation Overlay Zone to preserve the integrity of the area’s historic and architecturally significant homes. Hudson was also instrumental in further improving Robert Burns Park.

These are but a few of the many trailblazers whose work has enhanced this lovely neighborhood.

Windsor Square Los Angeles

In 1885, the Windsor Square Land Co. bought from the former Plummer Homestead a parcel of 200 acres bounded by Plymouth Boulevard, Bronson Avenue, Wilshire Boulevard and Beverly Boulevard for $400 an acre. They sold it in 1911 for $5,000 an acre to the Windsor Square Investment Co., headed by Robert A. Rowan.

The original subdivision was a tract bounded by Irving Boulevard, Plymouth Boulevard, Third Street and Wilshire Boulevard. The tract featured large lots, wide streets, wide parkways, elaborate electroliers and trees for which $200,000 was expended. The ornamental light standards were erected with the distinctive monogram “W/S” at the base. All streets were paved with concrete, utilities were underground, and long-term deed restrictions did not expire until 1965.

The area to the west of the original Windsor Square, which includes Lucerne and Arden boulevards from Third to Fifth streets, was owned as of 1913 by the Wilshire Hills Land Corp.

The following organizations involve many Larchmont Chronicle neighbors. Perhaps this will inspire you to become more involved in your community. If your group is not listed or if you see information that needs to be updated, please write to circulation@larchmontchronicle.com or call 323-462-2241, ext. 13.

Philanthropic ALEXANDRIA HOUSE

A transitional residence for women and children who are in the process of moving from homelessness to permanent housing. Marissa Espinoza serves as the executive director and Judy Vaughan as the founding director. Contact: 213-381-2649. Website: alexandriahouse.org.

ANDERSON-MUNGER YMCA

Helping to strengthen the community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Jenny Chan is the executive vice president and CEO. Contact: 213-427-9622. Website: ymcala.org/anderson-munger.

ARCS FOUNDATION, INC.

LOS ANGELES FOUNDER CHAPTER

Advances research in America by raising scholar awards for the best undergraduates, graduates, medical students and postdoctoral fellows in the fields of science, math, engineering and medical research. Contact: 310-375-1936. Website: los-angeles.arcsfoundation.org.

ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF LOS ANGELES

Improves the quality of life of at-risk children and their families. Their programs include: accredited preschool, two clothing and school supplies programs for homeless and foster youth, a theater for children and a scholarship program for graduating high school seniors who are homeless or in foster care. Sue Thalken is the board president and Melanie Merians is the CEO. There are more than 500 members. Their auxiliaries include: Anne Banning Auxiliary (Operation School Bell program), Hilltoppers Auxiliary (Foster Children’s Resource Center), Nine O’Clock Players Auxiliary (Theatre for Children Program), Preschool Auxiliary (Preschool Learning Center), Founder Assisteens, College Alumnae Auxiliary, Mannequins Auxiliary - Assistance League of Los Angeles College Scholarship program and League at Large - Family Membership and Young Professionals group. Contact Kai Tramiel, senior director of membership and community engagement: 323-545-4847 or membership@assistanceleaguela.org. Website: assistanceleaguela.org.

AVIVA

Provides support and therapeutic services to at-risk women, children and families through fundraising. Amber Rivas is the President / CEO. Contact: 323-876-0550 or vchavez@aviva.org. Website: aviva.org.

BANNING RESIDENCE MUSEUM VOLUNTEERS

Supports educational and cultural programs and restoration and conservation of Banning Residence Museum. Contact: 310-548-7777. Website: thebanningmuseum.org.

BIG SUNDAY

Connects people by providing a variety of volunteer opportunities to improve lives and build community. David Levinson is the founder and executive director. Contact: 323-549-9944 or david@bigsunday. org. Website: bigsunday.org.

BLIND CHILDREN’S CENTER

Provides family-centered early intervention and education services for children from birth to kindergarten who are visually impaired. L. Alan Boring is the board president, and Sarah Orth is the CEO. Contact: 323-664-2153. Website: blindchildrenscenter.org.

CALIFORNIA WOMEN’S LAW CENTER

Their mission is to create a more just and equitable society by breaking down barriers and advancing the potential of women and girls through transformative litigation, policy advocacy and education. Betsy Butler is the executive director. Contact: 323-9511041 or cwlc@cwlc.org. Website: cwlc.org.

CHILDHELP

Addresses the physical, emotional, educational and spiritual needs of abused, neglected and at-risk children, focusing efforts and resources on advocacy, intervention, prevention, treatment and community outreach. Suzzy Canny is the Los Angeles chapter president. Contact: 323-465-4016. Website: childhelp.org/chapters.

THE COLLEAGUES

Supports children affected by family violence, abuse and other trauma through fundraising and operating The Colleagues Boutique, a designer resale and vintage clothing store at 3312 Pico Blvd., is open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Contact: 310-396-7349. Website: thecolleagues. com.

COLLEAGUE HELPERS IN PHILANTHROPIC SERVICE (CHIPS)

Supports Children’s Institute, Inc. with its work to help children affected by violence, abuse and other trauma. Fundraising and volunteer efforts include its annual spring fashion luncheon and community outreach projects. Contact: info@thechips.org. Website: thechips.org.

CUISINE Á ROULETTES for ST. VINCENT MEALS ON WHEELS

Fulfills the mission to fundraise and provide volunteer support for St. Vincent Meals on Wheels, which was founded in 1983. Veronica Dover is the CEO / executive director. Contact: Sonia Sanchez at 213-484-7775 or ssanchez@svmow.org. Website: svmow.org/ get-involved.

DIDI HIRSCH MENTAL

HEALTH SERVICES

Provides mental health and substance abuse services where stigma or poverty limits access in the Los Angeles area. Will Lippincott and Melissa Rivers are co-chairs of the board, and Lyn Morris is the CEO. Contact: 888-807-7250. Website: didihirsch.org.

EBELL OF LOS ANGELES

A women’s club with philanthropic, cultural and educational programs that support 20 charities that help women and children. The club also grants more than 50 college scholarships each year. It holds lunches with guest speakers, wine-anddine dinners, barbecues, art receptions, dances, holiday events, plays, readings, film screenings, book clubs and craft workshops in a National Register historic Italian Renaissance building. Meredith Deighton is the director of membership and programs. Laurie Schecter is the president. Contact: 323-931-1277. Website: ebellofla.com.

FREEDOMS FOUNDATION

AT VALLEY FORGE

Educates students and teachers about the rights and responsibilities of American citizenry and inspires them to preserve and advance freedoms and love their country. Raises funds to provide scholarships to students and accredited teachers to participate in the Foundation’s educational programs. Trish Bowe is president of the Los Angeles chapter. Contact: 310-968-3163 or trishbowe9@gmail.com. Website: freedomsfoundation.org/chapters.

FRIENDLY HOUSE

The first residential program for women recovering from alcohol and drug addiction. Founded in 1951, it continues to provide opportunities for women to recover physically, spiritually and emotionally through love, compassion and support. Rika Broccoli is the board president, and Christina Simos is the executive director. Contact: 866-475-0892 or info@friendlyhousela.org. Website: friendlyhousela.org.

GOOD SHEPHERD CENTER

Raises funds to help women and children move from homelessness to self-sufficiency. Sister Maria Jennifer Nguyen is the center director. Contact: 213-318-5779 or srjnguyen@gschomeless.org. Website: gschomeless.org.

HOLLYWOOD YMCA

Strengthens the community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Contact: 323-467-4161. Website: ymcala.org. Currently closed during construction.

HOPENET

Provides direct services to families and individuals in the Metro Los Angeles area to break the cycles of food and housing insecurity. The food pantry program is a network of 12 food pantries that are run in collaboration with interfaith agencies spanning 20 miles and providing free, accessible and healthy food to anyone that wants or needs it. Taste of Larchmont, which occurs in the fall, is one of its fundraisers. Contact: 213-389-9949 or rmilder@hopenetla.org. Website: hope-net.org.

JEFFREY FOUNDATION

Provides in-person programs and activities for special needs children, ages 14 to 22 years, and their families. Alyce Morris Winston is the founder and CEO. Contact: 323-965-7536. Website: thejeffreyfoundation.org.

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF LOS ANGELES

An organization of women devoted to developing women’s leadership and promoting volunteerism to improve the community through effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. It was founded in 1926. Katherine La Spada is the president. Contact: 323-957-4280 or info@jlla.org. Website: jlla.org.

THE KARSH CENTER at WILSHIRE BOULEVARD TEMPLE

An organization established to improve the lives of the underserved population by providing critical and accessible social services through direct service or collaboration with other providers. Lila Guirguis is executive director. Contact: 213-401-4651 or info@ karshcenter.org. Website: karshcenter.org.

LAS FLORISTAS

Helps the special needs of children with exceptional physical or cognitive challenges at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center. Programs include wheelchair sports, scholarships, recreational therapy, adolescent support and pediatric art therapy. They host a spring gala, holiday luncheon and scholarship and awards dinner. Candice Nantais is the president. Contact: 562-298-3508 or amanda@lasfloristas.org. Website: lasfloristas.org.

LES AMIES

Supports Children’s Institute, Inc. to transform the lives of children exposed to adversity, trauma, community violence and poverty in Los Angeles. Nancy Derian is the contact person. Website: lesamiesinc.com.

LOS ANGELES MARYVALE GUILD

An organization of women dedicated to raising funds and awareness for Maryvale, Los Angeles’ oldest charity founded in 1856. Maryvale offers wraparound services

for unhoused mothers and their young children. Contact: Rachel Hunter at laoghunter@gmail.com. Website: lamaryvaleguild.com.

NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE LOS ANGELES CHAPTER

Mother-daughter philanthropy organization that helps provide opportunites that develop this special relationship through social, cultural and philanthropic events. They have their own thrift store, Timeless Treasures Thrift Shop, at 9441 Culver Blvd., Culver City. Contact: administrator@nclla. org. Website: nclla.org. Thrift Shop: 310559-8338.

NATIONAL CHARITY LEAGUE CORONET DEBUTANTE BALL BOARD

The Annual Coronet Debutante Ball honors young women involved in the National Charity League as they have dedicated themselves to their community through volunteering. The event supports the philanthropic projects of National Charity League, Los Angeles. Contact: 310-2455545 or juliebarker@att.net. Website: coronetdebutanteball.org.

NATIONAL SOCIETY DAUGHTERS OF THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION

A nonprofit, non-political volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history and securing America’s future through better education. It was founded in 1890 and is headquartered in Washington, D.C. There is a Los Angeles–Eschscholtzia chapter and a Hollywood chapter. Website: dar.org.

NATIONAL GIVING ALLIANCE HANCOCK PARK

An all-volunteer women’s nonprofit that provides new clothes, linens and personal care items through local charities. They hold a gala fundraiser annually. Beverly Brown is the president. Contact: ngahancockpark@gmail.com. Website: ngahancockpark.org.

PROJECT ANGEL FOOD

Founded in 1989 by Marianne Williamson and a group of volunteers to provide food to those impacted by serious illness. Project Angel Food continues to serve the critically ill, providing more than 21,000 free meals per week, along with love and support, to men and women battling cancer, kidney failure, diabetes, congestive heart disease and other illnesses, and their dependent children. Richard Ayoub is the CEO. Contact: 323-845-1800 or info@angelfood.org. Website: angelfood.org.

SISTERS OF SOCIAL SERVICE

Works with people on the margins through direct service and contemporary social action for change. Contact: 818-285-3358. Website: sssla.org.

UPLIFT FAMILY SERVICES AT HOLLYGROVE

Family-centered community organization serving with multiple programs for abused and neglected children up to age 18, and those at risk of abuse or neglect or in poverty. Contact: 323-463-2119. Website: pacificclinics.org.

Civic FRIENDS OF THE FAIRFAX LIBRARY

Supports the library acquisition fund and various programs. Book sale every Wednesday from 12 to 4 p.m. Contact: 323-9366191. Website: lapl.org/branches/fairfax.

FRIENDS OF THE JOHN C. FREMONT LIBRARY

Fundraises to support the library’s pro-

gramming for the community. Rachel Kitzman is the senior librarian. Contact: 323-962-3521. Website: lapl.org/branches/ john-c-fremont.

FRIENDS OF THE MEMORIAL LIBRARY

Supports the library through various programs. Book sale is every Tuesday from 12:30 to 5 p.m. and every Saturday from 3 to 5 p.m. Shirley Ashe is the senior librarian. Contact: 323-938-2732. Website: lapl. org/branches/memorial.

FRIENDS OF THE WILSHIRE LIBRARY

Supports the library through purchasing supplemental books, equipment and items that assist library staff, enhances community programming and maintains the thriving garden. In addition to fundraising through book and bake sales and donations, they have set up shelves inside the library dedicated to selling used books. Eric Kennedy is senior librarian. Contact: 323-957-4550. Website: lapl.org/branches/wilshire.

HOLLYWOOD BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL WOMEN

Achieves equity for working women in all phases of their lives and promotes personal empowerment and professional development. The organization was founded in 1920. Marjory Hopper is president. Contact 562-699-6288 or mjhop63345@aol.com. Website: bpwcal.org/hollywood-club.

LEAGUE OF WOMEN VOTERS of LOS ANGELES

A non-partisan political organization that encourages informed and active participation in government and increased understanding of major public policy issues. Contact: 213-368-1616 or info@lwvlosangeles. org. Website: my.lwv.org/california/greater-los-angeles.

LOS ANGELES GARDEN CLUB

Increase knowledge and love of gardening, educates and supports philanthropic causes and promotes an understanding of the necessity for civic beautification. Three horticultural scholarships are given to horticulture students at Mt. San Antonio College annually. Contact: info@losangelesgardenclub.org. Website: losangelesgardenclub. org.

NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WOMEN BUSINESS OWNERS, LOS ANGELES

Helps women business owners grow their business, network and wealth through education, connection and events. Contact: 213-622-3200. Website: nawbola.org.

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF JEWISH WOMEN, LOS ANGELES

Advances economic justice and equity for women and their families. Operates five thrift stores in Los Angeles and an e-commerce site to raise funds. Offers scholarships, free clothing and rental assistance. Pamela Brown is board president, and Marjorie Gilberg is CEO. Contact 323-8528500. Website: ncjwla.org.

WILSHIRE ROTARY CLUB OF LOS ANGELES

People taking action to help our community. Janice Prior is president, and Ray Schuldenfrei is membership chair. Contact: info@wilshirerotary.org. Website: wilshirerotary.org.

WINDSOR SQUARE-HANCOCK

PARK HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Researches and preserves historical information about Windsor Square, Hancock Park and Greater Rancho La Brea. Arranges historical tours, social events and annual Homes / Gardens tour. Richard Battaglia

is president.  Contact: wshphs@gmail.com. Website: wshphs.com.

WOMEN AGAINST GUN VIOLENCE

Prevents gun violence by educating the public, policymakers and the media about the human, financial and public health consequences and dangers of firearms. Margot Bennett is executive director. Contact: 310-204-2348 or wagv@wagv.org. Website: wagv.org.

WOMEN LAWYERS ASSOCIATION OF LOS ANGELES

Promotes participation in the legal profession of women lawyers and judges from diverse perspectives and racial and ethnic backgrounds, maintains the integrity of the legal system by advocating fairness and equality and improves the status of women by supporting their exercise of equal rights, equal representation and reproductive choice. Janet Hong is president. Contact: 213-892-8982 or info@wlala.org. Website: wlala.org.

Hospital-Medical

WOMEN’S GUILD CEDARS-SINAI

Aids Cedars-Sinai Medical Center primarily through fundraising, support programs, research and education. Contact: 310-9044400 or womensguild@cshs.org. Website: womensguildcs.org.

CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL LOS ANGELES ASSOCIATES & AFFILIATES

Money is raised by 37 guilds and auxiliaries to fund projects designed to enhance vital services for children and for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Contact: 323-3612367 or associates&affiliates@chla.usc.edu. Website: chla.org.

LAS MADRINAS

Philanthropic organization dedicated to a tradition of supporting pediatric care and research at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles by honoring families who have shown exceptional commitment to the Southern California community. Kathryne Halverson Garland is president. Contact: correspondingsecretary@lasmadrinas.org. Website: lasmadrinas.org.

LOS ANGELES GENERAL MEDICAL CENTER - CARES AUXILIARY

Supports Los Angeles County+USC by providing financial support and volunteer services to benefit patients by adding comfort to their hospital stay and providing services that help patients access quality health care. Contact: 323-409-6941 or lacusccares@gmail.com. Website: lacusccares.org.

LUMINAIRES, FOUNDER CHAPTER

Supports vision research at Doheny Eye Institute, now affiliated with UCLA’s Stein Eye Institute. Contact: 323-342-7101 or info@ doheny.org. Website: doheny.org.

ORTHOPAEDIC INSTITUTE FOR CHILDREN (OIC)

CHARITABLE CHILDREN’S GUILD (CCG)

The CCG supports OIC’s charitable care program with financial resources and volunteering with five auxiliary groups across Los Angeles. Website: fundraise.givesmart. com.

SISTERS SERVANTS OF MARY

Fundraises to assist Sisters who are RNs, LVNs and CNAs in carrying out their mission to care for patients in the patient’s home, regardless of illness, race or religion. Contact: 323-731-5747. Website: sisterservantsofmary.org.

ST. ANNE’S GUILD

A social service agency offering an array of services that promote the safety, resilience and ongoing achievement of young mothers, their children and their families. Contact: 213-381-2931 or stannes@stannes. org. Website: stannes.org.

HELPER’S CLUB OF ST. JOHN OF GOD

ST. JOHN OF GOD’S WOMEN’S LEAGUE

Both organizations raise money for St. John of God Retirement and Care Center. Contact: 323-731-7141 or info@hospitallerfoundation.org. Website: sjghcs.com/ auxiliaries.

Art-Music

THE BLUE RIBBON

The Music Center’s premier women’s support organization commited to arts education, volunteerism and fundraising for educational programs and resident companies. Terri Kohl is president. Contact: 213-9727211. Website: musiccenter.org.

BARNSDALL ART PARK FOUNDATION

Provides funding to ensure Barnsdall Art Park is a vibrant, inclusive space for creativity and cultural expression, civic conversation and social empowerment. Contact: connect@barnsdall.org. Website: barnsdall. org.

BARNSDALL ARTS

Provides quality art education and exhibits that nurture creativity, artistic skills and aesthetic appreciation of art. Contact: 323-363-4629 or barnsdallarts@gmail.com. Website: barnsdallarts.org.

LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART COSTUME COUNCIL

Council members enjoy six to eight fashion-centric programs annually. Acquisitions and special projects support the Costume and Textile Curatorial Department of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Contact: 323-857-6558 or costumecouncil@lacma.org. Website: lacma.org.

LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART DOCENT COUNCIL

Volunteer educational services for students and adults in the form of tours, lectures and informal conversations. Contact: 323-8576109. Website: lacma.org.

LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART (LACMA)

Become involved with LACMA through monetary donations or art donations, or support their education and outreach fund. Website: lacma.org.

LOS ANGELES PHILHARMONIC (LA PHIL) AFFILIATES

Supports the mission of the LA Phil through volunteer service, community engagement and fundraising; be ambassadors for music and connect communities. Contact 213972-3537 or volunteer@laphil.org. Website: laphil.org/support.

MUSES OF THE CALIFORNIA SCIENCE CENTER FOUNDATION

Supports and promotes the California Science Center and its education programs for youth. Contact: 213-744-2035 or acontreraz@californiasciencecenter.org. Website: californiasciencecenter.org/volunteer.

Education

BUCKLEY SCHOOL PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION

Supports the school; assists in social, cul-

tural and fundraising activities; and fosters good relationships among the school, the students, and the parents. Contact: pa@ buckley.org. Website: buckley.org/about/ parents-association.

CATHEDRAL CHAPEL SCHOOL PTO BOARD

Plans fundraising events for Cathedral Chapel School and general support of the school. Contact: 323-938-9976. Website: cathedralchapelschool.org.

FRIENDS OF HANCOCK PARK ELEMENTARY

Fundraises and implements projects to enrich education and social experiences. Website: hancockparkschool.com.

FRIENDS OF THIRD STREET

A parent volunteer group which supports students, teachers and faculty through community building initiatives, classroom support and funding of enrichment programs. Contact: info@friendsofthird.org. Website: friendsofthird.org.

HARVARD-WESTLAKE SCHOOL PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION

Creates opportunities for families to connect with — and support —one another and the school to create a warm, inclusive and joyful community. Website: hw.com/ parents/parents-association.

LARCHMONT ORGANIZATION OF PARENTS (LOOP)

Fundraises to enrich education, support teachers and staff and create a sense of community among Larchmont Charter School families. Contact: 323-380-7893 ext. 301. Website: larchmontcharter.org.

LOYOLA HIGH MOTHERS’ GUILD

Community of mothers who support the students and school through hospitality, service and fundraising. Contact: 213-3815121. Website: loyolahs.edu/mothers-guild.

MARLBOROUGH PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION

Provides leadership and supports the school and its activities and staff. Contact: 323935-1147. Website: marlborough.org.

ST. BRENDAN SCHOOL PARENT TEACHER BOARD

Welcomes new families and provides fundraising, a communication forum, and support of co-curricular activities. Contact: 213-382-7401 or info@stbrendanschoolla. org. Website: stbrendanschoolla.org/parent-board.

ST. JAMES’ EPISCOPAL SCHOOL PARENT ASSOCIATION

Organizes and coordinates parent involvement and helps build a sense of community. Contact: 213-382-2315. Website: sjsla.org/ community-life/parent-involvment.

TOWN AND GOWN OF USC

Philanthropic organization that was established in 1904. It supports USC through scholarships for students, building and campus enhancements and cultural programs. Beth Petak-Aaron is president. Contact: 213-626-9070 or president@townandgownofusc.org. Website: townandgownofusc.org.

WILSHIRE CREST PTA

Fundraises and provides support for school and student needs. Contact: 323-938-5291 or info@wilshirecrestpta.org. Website: wilshirecrestes.lausd.org.

WILTON PLACE SCHOOL PTA

Fundraises for and supports teachers and staff.Contact: 213-389-1181. Website: wiltones.lausd.org.

Lynn Baran McCarthy is a local fundraiser extraordinaire

By Casey Russell

The granddaughter of Croatian immigrants, Lynn Baran McCarthy grew up in Palos Verdes, but she has lived in the Larchmont area for the past 25 years with her husband Ted (Theodore) Leary, Jr.

McCarthy attended USC and then transferred to the Rhode Island School of Design. She has a degree in interior architecture. Coming back to the West Coast after school, she worked for an architect in Palos Verdes before switching to working at a commercial real estate firm.

Though McCarthy took a four-year hiatus from work after her daughter, Veronica, was born, she soon was back in the game buying and leasing with various companies, including Grubb & Ellis, First Interstate Bank and CBRE. Veronica entered Marlborough School in the 7th grade, close to the time McCarthy and Leary were married. (It’s her second marriage.) Feeling ready for a change in career, McCarthy was pleased to learn from Veronica’s godfather, who was on Marlborough’s board of trustees, that the

school needed to build up its alumnae office. She became the associate director of alumnae relations at Marlborough.

During the 16 years that McCarthy worked at Marlborough, she was promoted many times. When she retired two years ago, she held the title of director of advancement.

McCarthy seems to have lived up to that title. She was involved in three major school fundraising projects during her time at Marlborough.

Money from the Leadership and Learning Project was put toward taking down the library and arts building that was on the corner of Third Street and Rossmore Avenue so that builders could create two levels of underground parking, new administrative offices, an arts area and an active resource center with additional offices and creative space.

The Rise and Rally project focused on renovating Caswell Hall, and the Arden Project enabled the school to build a new soccer field and an aquatics center and to increase available parking.

“I loved making money for the school,” said McCarthy when we spoke. She helped the institution raise more than $12 million. But McCarthy also found great value in the relationships she made over her years there. She developed deep friendships and said she gained an “appreciation of what these women are doing or will do.”

Lynn McCarthy seems to

be drawn to helping schools thrive. Though neither Veronica, nor this fundraiser extraordinaire’s stepdaughter, Kathryn Leary, went to St. James’ School, the mom of two served on the St. James’ Episcopal School board for four years raising money and supporting the head of school, the employees, parents and students. She has been a member of St. James’ Episcopal Church for 25 years.

The civic-minded woman has also been involved with the Junior League of Los Angeles. She has co-chaired the group’s Legacy Leadership Circle for the past three years. “I think it’s important for people to give back,” she said.

Retired from Marlborough, McCarthy now works as an executive assistant for a family office in the Hancock Park neighborhood. When she’s not working, you might find her walking the neighborhood she so loves with her

3-year-old golden retriever, Theo. She and Ted enjoy frequenting local restaurants — especially Angelini on Saturday nights. She also loves to make use of the pool at their historic apartment building, which is now a condo.

If she could go back in time, she would have got into swimming or volleyball as a sport. Her love of sports wasn’t encouraged when she was growing up. But McCarthy doesn’t look backward. She moves forward. “I’m learning to golf now. You can golf forever,” she said.

What else is on the list of things to do? “I want to go to the Super Bowl,” McCarthy said. She’s also determined to get through the books on her bedside table and to learn the art of calligraphy. Looking at the things she’s accomplished already, there seems to be little doubt that her most recent list of things to learn and do will soon be completed.

Kasimoff harpsichord in performance on August 31

A harpsichord from the Kasimoff-Blüthner Piano Company on Larchmont Boulevard will be played at a concert at the Luxe Sunset Boulevard Hotel on Thurs., Aug. 31, at 8 p.m. The L’Ermitage Foundation is hosting the event.

The 1963 Neupert harpsichord was imported by Helga Kasimoff and her late husband. “We think it’s the most recorded, most traveled and most heard harpsichord in the world,” the couple’s son, Kyril Kasimoff, told us. The “historic and famous” instrument has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, and is a favorite of performers and composers alike, he added.

Dr. Neville Anderson

Dr. Anderson grew up in the Windsor Square area. She attended St. James’ School and Marlborough School. After graduating from Stanford University, she was an assistant teacher at Bing Nursery School. She received her medical degree from the University of Rochester. She completed her internship and residency at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. There she received the Victor E. Stork Award for Continued Excellence and Future Promise in the Care of Children. For seven years, she practiced in La Cañada at Descanso Pediatrics. In 2014 she followed her dreams and opened her own practice on Larchmont Boulevard. She was named a Top Doctor in Pasadena magazine and a Top Rising Super Doctor in Los Angeles magazine for multiple years. Dr. Anderson is one of the founding members of the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles Health Network, is on its Board of Managers and is the Chair for its Finance Committee. She is also an attending physician at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. She is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and is on the Board of the Los Angeles Pediatric Society. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, hiking, going to the beach, reading and playing tennis.

Dr. Lauren Estrada

Dr. Lauren Estrada recently joined the practice at Larchmont Pediatrics, 321 N. Larchmont Blvd., Ste. 1020. The doctor, who completed her pediatric residency at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, has been practicing privately in general pediatrics in the Los Angeles area.

Dr. Estrada finds joy in working with children and is constantly inspired by their strength and resilience, according to Dr. Neville Anderson, who founded the wellrespected Larchmont practice in 2014.

321 N. Larchmont Blvd., Suite 1020

• (323) 960-8500

The August concert will feature pianist Nathan Lewis and cellist Ruslan Biryukov in

Bonanno

(Continued from page 8) homelessness to her projects, to better learn what works and what doesn’t.

One thing she’s found that works is kindness. And she’s also learned that people are complicated. “When you start hearing the stories, you realize each journey is so different. People want to be accepted and cared about.

“Your job is to value them as a human being and to be kind to them. We don’t stand a chance if we don’t create trust… that’s where it starts…”

As for her two sons? They’ve moved on to their own careers, probably with a broader worldview, thanks to accompanying their mom to HoFoCo.

a performance that includes three Italian Baroque sonatas. It will take place in the hotel’s

grand ballroom at 11461 Sunset Blvd., Bel Air. For tickets visit lermitagefoundation.org.

Angelique S. Campen, MD

Esthetic Medicine Specialist and ER Doctor

Angelique Campen is an ER Physician, a Professor of Emergency Medicine, an entrepreneur, and a philanthropist. A graduate of Georgetown University and UCLA School of Medicine, Angelique has been an ER physician at Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center for over 20 years. In that time she has served as Medical Director, sits on the Foundation Board where she raised over $70 million to build a new Emergency Department, and spearheads the Narcan program to help combat the opiate crisis. She is founder of Vital Medical Services, which provides medical clearances and DUI blood draws at law enforcement facilities rather than ERs thus unburdening the emergency departments.

In her “free time” she is mom to Hunter, Paris and Scarlett, travels on medical missions around the globe and is an advisor to the US Congress regarding COVID-19 on the west coast. Lastly, she takes time to educate on her social media site @GlamERdoc. Her passion for working in the ER is because she “gets to see the most intimate times of people’s lives, when they are scared, hurting, or relieved” and she “is able to make that experience as comfortable as possible.” “In the ER you really get to see humanity.”

323-788-3409

Patricia Carroll grew up in the real estate business as the daughter of Hollywoodland owner Ed Carroll. She is now president of the firm her late father operated in two offices since the 1940s on Larchmont Boulevard and Beachwood Drive.

Patti actively works for preservation and is the Treasurer for the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council, where she also serves on the Land Use and Outreach committees. She is a member of the Ebell Club, SASNA and Friends of Hope-Net and is on the boards of the Anderson-Munger YMCA and the Larchmont Boulevard Association.

Her address is in both the Hollywoodland Realty office at 584 N. Larchmont Blvd. and the original 1923 Hollywoodland Realty office at 2700 N. Beachwood Dr., the latter of which was the tract office and first building constructed in Hollywoodland. Fun fact: the Hollywoodland (Hollywood) Sign was originally built to promote the office and the development. Currently, Carroll is in the process of preparing for the 100th Anniversary of Hollywoodland, archiving her extensive collection of historical documents. (323) 469-3171 • Cell: (213) 268-3171

Patricia Carroll President Hollywoodland Realty

LYNN MCCARTHY

Christine Meyer: An under-the-radar leader in our community

By Casey Russell Christine Meyer,

or Christine Bennett to those who knew her as a child, moved to the United States for the first time when she was 11. Her mother was French, and her father was a press attaché at the American embassy in Paris for many years.

During the first two decades of her life, Meyer moved around every two to four years, living in different countries. “I lived in France, Iran, Pakistan, Germany — it was so broadening. But I didn’t get the experience of living in one place, getting to know people, seeing birth, marriage, death,” she said.

When Meyer settled in Windsor Square, she found something she’d never really known — community. Though they lived in the Pacific Palisades while their kids were young, Meyer and her husband, architect Carl Meyer, FAIA, ended up, in 1993, buying the house where Carl had grown up with his seven siblings. “That house became such a happy home with events, pre-prom parties and such,” Mrs. Meyer told us.

She said, “Being part of the St. Brendan Church and School community was a revelation to me in a lot of ways.”

She explained that she truly experienced what it was like to be part of a community there, and she found herself taking on leadership roles in her neighborhood, as well. She was her block’s Windsor Square Association block captain for 27 years, helping to organize the popular Lucerne Block Party; she was a den leader for her son’s Cub Scout pack; and she became the friendly face that people would see when they went to the polls to vote.

Meyer often was the head poll worker for her neighborhood’s polling place. “We did it in someone’s garage for many years.”

The humble mom of three said she became more comfortable with the poll worker job as she did it more. “I learned I could handle problems.”

Poll workers have to get up early to make sure everything is ready for voters on the big day. They also stay late packing up and dispatching the ballots. “It was such a wonderful experience. You feel very involved with your community.” Meyer said she loved it when people brought their kids with them or when someone came in for the first time. “We taught them, in principle, how to do it,” she said. One year, Mayor Villaraigosa came in. “That was very exciting,” she said.

Though Meyer has grown to love being part of a local community, there’s a big part of her that relishes her worldly roots. She got her undergraduate degree overseas in France and Germany and might never have ended up in Los Angeles if she had not met Carl while they both were studying in Heidelberg.

Meyer still returns to France yearly. She and her sister now own the peaceful, ivy-covered small chateau that has been in their mother’s family for generations.

persisted. In 2008, her dream of being a licensed therapist finally came true. She’s had her own marriage and family therapy practice ever since. She actually sees both French- and English-speaking clients.

The grandmother of six feels that “a lot of really good, good things came my way all by themselves.” She feels blessed. “I am so fortunate that our children are enthusiastic about our many get-togeth-

ers,” she said.

Every summer, her daughters’ two families, her son, Christine and her husband all vacation together somewhere between San Francisco and Los Angeles. They rent a place with a pool so the grandkids can play and the family can simply enjoy being together.

Christine and Carl recently downsized from their Windsor Square home, and they now are living happily ever after nearby in Sycamore Square.

As I continue my native routes in Larchmont & Park La Brea, I am a blessed DV survivor and single mother of two teenage all-stars, Noah and Natalee Carey.

As a licensed contractor woman-owned business, I look forward to growing this coming year!

My career in the roofing industry started in 2004 with Doug Ratliff at Supreme Roofing. I successfully implemented a Safety, Injury and Illness program in addition to hard work and dedication to prepare Supreme Roofing for our 98th anniversary and transition.

I am most appreciative of and admire Doug at Supreme Roofing for being a monumental mentor and positive influence in my life and my children’s. I would not be the woman I am today without my roofing experience. I continue to provide mentorship to other women in the industry with National Women in Roofing & women in trades while supporting Alexandria House.

1015 N. Gower St. • 323-469-2981

Gillian Feldman Head of School Wilshire Schools East

Erika J Glazer Early Childhood Center Brawerman Elementary School East

Gillian has been an integral part of Brawerman

Elementary serving on both campuses over the last 18 years. She began her teaching career at Brawerman West in 2005 and served as a first and second grade teacher before joining the Brawerman leadership team as the Director of Admissions for West and East in 2011 as a founding administrator. Gillian became Principal of Brawerman East in 2013 and spent the next five years growing the school and working together with the amazing pioneer educators and families to create and reimagine the Glazer Campus. After proudly graduating the charter class in 2018, Gillian stepped away from Wilshire Boulevard Temple to focus on her young family. During the pandemic in January 2021, Gillian returned home to Brawerman as Assistant Principal and later Interim Principal of Brawerman West. Gillian has most recently returned to her roots at the Glazer Campus in her new role as Head of Schools for Brawerman East and Erika J Glazer Early Childhood Center. She is connected to the community and excited to engage new families as their children begin their education journeys.

3663 Wilshire Blvd.

• wbtecc.org

• brawerman.org

• (213) 835-2170

For many years, she also has been involved with a nearly 100-year-old group that started in Hancock Park / Windsor Square called Le Salon Français de Los Angeles. Meyer served as president for 12 years and is now the organization’s vice president. The group is composed of Francophiles who get together several times each year. Members host each other in their homes or meet at places like the Wilshire Country Club to have tea and listen to guest speakers.

Since her 20s, Meyer was drawn to the study of psychology. She got her masters degree in the U.S. but found it difficult to get the hours she needed to be licensed after having children. But she

Gabrielle Bullock

(Continued from page 9)

versity in Riverside and Otis College of Art and Design. Bullock also visited Hancock Park Elementary School when her daughter was going there to share with students what an architect does.

So has the young girl with big dreams changed the world yet? Gabrielle Bullock considers, “Some of the [diversity] numbers have improved, but it’s a journey.”

When I branched out on my own 20 years ago, I knew that Larchmont would be the perfect location for my practice. I was drawn to its small-town neighborliness and strong sense of community. I gravitated toward cosmetic dermatology because it blends science and art. Over the years my philosophy has always been cosmetic dermatology is not about vanity, but empowerment. Knowing that I can help my clients feel more confident is what motivates me, and to do so, I’m always looking for what we can offer patients to help them feel their best. This year I’m honored to be included in the top 10 cosmetic dermatologists in the US in Newsweek’s 2022 ranking. Traveling to lecture and teach has kept me as busy as ever, but I’ve been taking the occasional break to enjoy walks in the park with my nieces, and will be enjoying our annual family vacation this summer. As always, thank you to our patients and staff, and to the community of Larchmont for your continued support.

Dr. Helen Fincher

One of my favorite updates this year is having my daughter, Avery, join the practice for the summer as a Patient Coordinator before she returns to USC in the fall. I’m grateful to work in a practice that prioritizes patient care and excellence above all else. I’m loving the results we are seeing from Ellacor Micro-Coring. This new minimally invasive skin-tightening option addresses a range of skin laxity including deeper wrinkles. I’ve been as busy as ever with our popular devices such as Genius MicroNeedling with RF combined with other modalities like Fraxel + Halo BBL. Their ability to address multiple skin concerns such as brightening dull skin, improving scars, texture, fine lines and wrinkles over small and large areas is exceptional. Customizing treatments and combining our many lasers and devices is what I enjoy most in my practice. Thank you staff and patients and to the community or Larchmont. As you all know, I will never tire of getting to work in the neighborhood where I live!

Angela Sarff, Nurse Practitioner

I appreciate how dedicated our office is to teaching in our field. I’ve continued my role as Faculty Trainer for Allergan, traveling to other providers on the West Coast to teach best practices. When I’m in the office, I’m busy offering patients Thermage Skin Tightening, Ulthera non-surgical lifting, and Vbeam for removal of red spots, brown spots and even acne spots, among other treatments.

On a few personal notes, my son Finn will be in transitional kindergarten this year and my daughter Maddie will be returning to preschool, and we’re looking forward to visiting family in Iowa City in August. Once again thank you to the one-of-a-kind community of Larchmont for your ongoing support.

Rebekah Letsinger, Medical Aesthetician

I can’t believe I’ve been with the practice for almost 10 years. I started as an aesthetician, working closely with the doctors, but shortly thereafter transitioned to a position as the office manager. We are all very proud of the team we’ve put together. It’s been such a pleasure to work alongside the same colleagues for many years that now feel like family. This summer I’m looking forward to a vacation in Wisconsin, enjoying concerts and, of course, wearing my sunscreen!

Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald

Careylyn Clifford Operations Manager

CHRISTINE MEYER

Cake pop creator opens a new store on Beverly Boulevard

By Nona Sue Friedman

The first known “make your own cake pop bar” has arrived in Los Angeles at 7306 Beverly Blvd. in the New York Cake Pop store. The bar is an area within the store where you choose the type of cake, candy coating and topping to create your own, one-ofa-kind dessert. You can also purchase pre-made cake pops in the store.

For those who aren’t sure about this story’s subject, a cake pop is crumbled cake and frosting combined, typically shaped into a ball and then dipped in a candy or chocolate coating and placed on a stick like a lollipop.

The brainchild of this bar is Lerida Mojica, founder and CEO of New York Cake Pops. It’s just the latest iteration of her creativity.

Jennifer Kim

MS, CFP®, CMFC®, CHFC®, CLU®

Managing Senior Partner, Signature Estate & Investment Advisors, LLC (SEIA)

Active Member of the Larchmont Community, Wife, and Mother, Jennifer Kim is a native of Los Angeles and a Larchmont resident for over 20 years. She received her BA degree in Economics from UCLA and has been in the securities and insurance business for 30 years. Jennifer is a Managing Senior Partner at SEIA where she customizes wealth and investment strategies for families and corporations. She is married to Mark Kim, a Los Angeles native and District Attorney in Downtown LA. They have four children, ages 12-19. Sterling is attending the University of Michigan. Fiona will be a Senior and Sullivan will be a Sophomore at Harvard-Westlake where Jennifer is the president of HW KAPA. Remington graduated from St. James and he will be joining Fiona and Sullivan at Harvard-Westlake. Jennifer’s family is also active with the Los Angeles International Fencing Center and local sports.

310-712-2323 • jkim@seia.com

Debra Minkove

Actor, Painter, Designer, Philanthropist

I’m currently residing in the Larchmont area. I worked in the fashion industry for thirteen years in California, London and Seattle. Taking up another interest of mine, acting, I recently graduated from theater school and have been working in the industry up until the Writers Strike. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking, spending time with my kittens — even though I’m a dog person at heart — and painting. I started my company, All The While, which allows me to work on commission paintings for a vast array of individuals, and I look forward to more opportunities to paint in the future. My mother always encouraged us from a young age to “pay it forward,” so I have been involved with many charities over the years. Having gone through cancer, I worked as an advocate and educator for Breast Health Awareness. I love children, animals and painting — call me for a nanny, dog walking or custom commissioned painting!

dcminkove@gmail.com • (206) 550-1000

Jordann Piegalski Director, Early Childhood Program Hollywood Schoolhouse

Her company was born after hosting her son’s 1-yearold birthday party. Wanting to feed her guests, Mojica prepared festive food and dessert for all the kids and adults. In addition to cookies and snacks, she tried her hand at cake pops, after being inspired by a recipe for truffle balls online.

The cake pops were a big hit. The next month, a friend asked Mojica if she could make some for the friend’s child’s birthday. A week later, another friend asked the same. Mojica felt something was brewing. She posted her creations on Etsy.

Not long after, someone from Sephora reached out asking for 6,500 pieces for a corporate event. She wasn’t able to fulfill that order from her New York City apartment kitchen, but she researched how to start a business.

A year later, in 2010, her New York Cake Pop was born. Since then, she has created custom cake pops for company events at Tiffany, Netflix, William Sonoma, plus parties at Wilshire Country Club, hundreds of birthdays, weddings and even funerals. She’s crafted whales, lips, sharks, pandas, dolphins and Sponge

name

What Mojica likes about the

pops is there is portion

control and they can be so personal. She says, “They are great for everything. It makes the recipients feel so special,” since they are crafted just for them.

Mojica moved to the Beverly Grove neighborhood with her husband and two kids in 2018. After a couple of years of traveling from her new home on the West Coast to her production kitchen in the Bronx, she noticed her business was growing even more with her being away from the kitchen. She was

able to focus on outreach and spreading her brand on social media. With that realization, she decided it was time to open her first retail location. Luckily, she found a store for lease two blocks from her home. After a couple of years of waiting for permits and construction, the store opened earlier this year. Even though it’s only two blocks from her house, she admits, “I rarely walk there.” Apparently she’s become a true Angeleno!

(Please

Margie Christoffersen

Salutes.....

Beverly Pink

Beverly told Margie, in her own words:

Betty and Paul Pink, our parents and founders of Pink’s Famous Hot Dogs, would be proud to celebrate Pink’s 84th year this November! When I was six years old, I went to Melrose Avenue School. While our parents worked and were present at charitable events, I took care of my younger brother Richard. Over the years I enjoyed meeting and greeting generations of customers and hearing their great stories about their experiences at Pink’s Famous Hot Dog.

I have been very fortunate to watch Pink’s flourish and grow from a pushcart into the wonderful business it is today. I am very grateful to my brother Richard and my sister-in-law Gloria Pink for the outstanding dedication and devotion they have given to making Pink’s an iconic hot dog stand. I am grateful, too, that at 90 years old I am continuing to participate in the Pink’s legacy.

Our parents Betty and Paul would be very proud and appreciative of what we have done as a family to continue to grow their legacy into a recognizable, special hot dog stand. We have been honored by the city council to have the corner of Melrose and La Brea become designated as Pink’s Square. We do chili dogs for charity and donate and help the community with many other charitable events.

Walk into our waiting room and see an interesting and enjoyable entertainment wall of celebrities that people love to look at and relish and enjoy while waiting for their favorite hot dog.

As the second generation of Pink’s, we have not forgotten our roots and who helped make us as popular as we are today: our loyal customers in LA and around the globe and our wonderful loyal help — some of whom have been with us over 20 years. These are the memories that made us “the little hot dog stand that could.”

Margie and El Coyote are delighted to honor Beverly in this year’s Women of Accomplishment issue.

7312 Beverly Blvd. • elcoyotecafe.com • (323) 939-2235 709 N. La Brea Ave. • pinkshollywood.com • (323) 931-4223

Peggy Procter Head of School

Jordann Piegalski is the Director of the Early Childhood Program at Hollywood Schoolhouse. She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Delaware. Her dedication to nurturing young minds and fostering a love of learning has made an indelible impact on countless children during her 15 years at Hollywood Schoolhouse. Jordann leads a team of teachers to empower children to become confident, empathetic, and enthusiastic learners. She believes in the power of play and how it can create a magical and natural learning experience. Jordann would love to meet you and show you the special program she leads. Tours are available to schedule!

1233 N. McCadden Place • hshla.org

• 323-465-1320

Peggy Procter, Head of Echo Horizon School in Culver City leads a visionary independent school offering a co-enrollment program for bright students who are Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Over her six-year tenure, Peggy has fostered a joyful engaged learning community, graduating healthy empathetic leaders who positively impact the world. After graduating from Dartmouth and Middlebury College, Peggy worked at international schools in Switzerland and Costa Rica as a teacher, and as Dean of Students, Director, and Head at four California independent schools. She advocates for student-centered learning, strong academics and social-emotional support for students to thrive. Peggy initiated and co-teaches the 6th Grade Purpose Learning capstone project, where students propose solutions to social justice issues. Additionally, she serves on The Buckley School’s Board of Trustees.

3430 McManus Ave., Culver City • echohorizon.org • (310) 838-2442

Bob Square Pants, to

a few.

cake

A CUSTOMER directs the design of her own one-of-a-kind cake pop.

All-woman dental trio works together for more than 40 years

By Nona Sue Friedman

Dr. Sylva Bezian, a local dentist whose practice is at 321 N. Larchmont Blvd., and her two assistants, Susie Dirmandzhyan and Varvoui Bosnoyan, have worked together for more than 40 years. When they started, they were all recent school graduates. Bezian’s new assistants were single. None of them thought the relationship would last so many years. But, as Dirmandzhyan says, “It clicked from the first day.”

In 1980, Dr. Bezian, a

resident of her beloved Larchmont Village since 1972, had just graduated from USC School of Dentistry. She received a phone call from a dental mentor who told her a dentist in Beverly Hills had unexpectedly passed away. His practice was for sale. Dr. Bezian jumped at this opportunity and signed a contract purchasing the practice within days. The only issue was that his staff was retiring. With the late dentist’s patients still coming for appointments, Dr. Bezian

started interviewing candidates to assist her. After a full day of interviews, it came down to two candidates. Being a new business owner, Bezian felt she could only afford one employee. But after discussing the dilemma with her husband, Bezian decided to hire both women. That’s when the trio formed.

The two new assistants started that week. Over the years, they have shared life milestones together, such as engagements, marriages, births of children and grandchildren. The married couples socialized outside of the office and became close friends. As a bonus, the husbands like each other. They have even traveled together over the years. As Dr. Bezian says, “We grew up together.”

“All of our major life events have been staggered around the office schedule, so someone could always be here,” she continues.

Julie Stromberg Attorney, Activist and Advocate

An active community member, Julie is an education and civil rights attorney with the Stromberg Law Group, P.C. She represents children with a wide range of disabilities and learning differences at IEP meetings, mediation, due process hearings, and in state and federal courts. Her practice has a public interest orientation directed at positively impacting young people and their communities as a whole. Julie is active in local Los Angeles Democratic efforts and is a delegate to the California Democratic Party. She is a member of the Executive Committee for the Los Angeles City College Foundation, is a member of the Board of Trustees for the Craft Contemporary, and serves on the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council. An Emerge California alumna, Julie was recognized as a “Woman of Larchmont” in 2015, “Wonder Woman of Council District 4” in 2019, and was recognized by the Los Angeles Neighborhood Land Trust (LANLT) in 2021 for her work in creating more parks and park equity throughout Los Angeles County. A graduate of the University of California, Berkeley and Loyola Law School, Julie resides in Brookside with her family.

www.stromberglawgroup.com

julie@rkhlawoffice.com • (323) 348-8709

Leisha Willis CPCU, AU, API

Leisha opened her State Farm agency in Larchmont Village in 2013 following a 20-year career in management with the organization. Prior to becoming a State Farm agent, she directed human resources operations in California and led recruiting efforts in the southeast states for State Farm.

After commuting from Larchmont Village to Beverly Hills for more than 25 years, it was time to make a change. “I drove by the Larchmont Medical Building daily and dreamed I’d have an office there one day,” Dr. Bezian told us. Her dream came true in 2006 with an office in the medical tower at 321 N. Larchmont Blvd. She designed and decorated the office herself. She enjoys the space and location so much that she recently signed a lease for another five years.

Dr. Bezian feels, “I’m the best I’ve been. All these years of experience make my job second nature. Experience really counts, and I’m still really enjoying dentistry.”

Kathy Whooley

PT, OCS, CSCS, CPI, MBA

Owner, Larchmont Physical Therapy (LPT)

“Providing a safe and clean environment while keeping you moving

An accomplished physical therapist, Kathy Whooley has enjoyed serving the orthopedic and sports medicine community for over 38 years. LPT is regarded as one of the most respected outpatient practices in the city, where Kathy oversees a dedicated team of professionals whose goals are to ensure optimal results for a variety of clients with ever challenging sets of needs.

Kathy is a Boston University Magna Cum Laude graduate who relocated to Southern California, where she earned her MBA in Business Administration from Pepperdine University. Her other credentials include:

• Orthopedic Clinical Specialist Certification (OCS)

• Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist Certification (CSCS)

• Certified Pilates Instructor (CPI) • USGAFA Golf-Specific Fitness Trainer Kathy Whooley, PT, OCS • Larchmont Physical Therapy 321 N. Larchmont Blvd. #825 LA, CA 90004 • 323 464-4458 www.larchmontphysicaltherapy.com

Mary Carlota Woodward

Residential Realtor

Owner & Agent I grew up living in Fremont Place, where my parents lived for 60 years! As a 4th generation Hancock Park citizen, I love this tremendous neighborhood and notable area of Los Angeles. My career in real estate started in 1979 when I joined my brother and partner, John Woodward. Andrew completed our team, and our careers were launched as the Woodward Team!

A Michigan native, Leisha graduated Magna Cum Laude from Spelman College with undergraduate studies at Oxford University as a Luard Foundation Scholar. Her professional accreditations include Chartered Property-Casualty Underwriter (CPCU), Associate in Underwriting (AU), and Associate in Personal Insurance (API). She is a Leadership America alumna and former board member for the United Way. Leisha holds her Life/ Health and Property/Casualty licenses and is a Registered Representative for State Farm VP Management Corp.

In her spare time, Leisha enjoys running, traveling and spending time with family. She is active in her church and community outreach organizations, served as vice-president of the board of the Larchmont Boulevard Association for several years and is honored to have mentored many young people in their careers. 500 N. Larchmont Blvd. • 323-785-4080 • leisha@leishawillis.com

Alyce Morris Winston

CEO and Founder

Although the trio broke up at the end of June with Dirmandzhyan retiring, the newest associate is a great addition to the warm family feeling of the office. She’s a computer wiz who is helping to make the office completely digital.

After 40 years, though, it’s hard to stay away. Dirmandzhyan already has committed to filling in at the office in September. The band will be back together!

Cake pop store

(Continued from page 16)

Having worked with Keller Williams Larchmont, I have seen myriad changes over time. Larchmont seems to be having a renaissance and I am happy to be a part of this vitality. I serve as a board member of ARTS DIVISION, an art school in MacArthur Park that provides arts education to underserved students who excel in various artistic mediums. This offers the students a springboard for higher education and careers. I am also a member of NGA, our neighborhood charity of dedicated women which provides garments and necessities to organizations focused on helping the underserved.

Currently, I am the HPOZ liaison for the Miracle Mile Residential Association. Thanks, Larchmont Chronicle, for being a great champion for our beloved community.

TheWoodwardTeam.com • (323) 762-2571

The Women of Wilshire Rotary Club Los Angeles Salute the Women of Larchmont & the Women of Accomplishment 2023

Alyce Morris Winston, CEO and Founder of The Jeffrey Foundation has dedicated her life to special needs and low-income children and their families for over 51 years.

“Helping children learn, and cope with their disability and for their parents we have an educational and emotional well-being workshops. This is truly my passion and makes me feel happy and fulfilled.”

Alyce believes that working for the community, especially with children, keeps one young, happy and fulfilled. “I have been so blessed to have the support of the community and my staff throughout the years in proving the afterschool, recreation programs, and parenting workshops through The Jeffrey Foundation/Special Child USA, named after my son Jeffrey, who had Muscular Dystrophy. My dream has come true!”

5443 W. Washington Blvd. • thejeffreyfoundation.org • (323) 965-7536

Mojica wants to make the retail location a destination store. She envisions hosting parties at the store, having classes for kids and teens and even traveling with a “make your own cake pop” bar to weddings and other special events.

What started as a desire to make her son’s first birthday special has morphed into bi-coastal production of 10,000 cake pops per week.

Back Row (L-R): Carolyn Layport, Emma Welch, Pam Rudy, Amy Cuomo, Zabrina Schultz, Elizabeth Watts-Russell, Patty Lombard

Front Row (L-R): Georgia Brunetti, Elsa Gillham, Dia Schuldenfrei, Candace Wong, Janice Prior, Kyle Pierce, Connie Guarderas, Mercedes Wilson, Joyce Kleifield, Kim Little

Not pictured: Sandy Boeck, Angelique Campen, Andi Ceragioli, Margie Christoffersen, Wendy Clifford, Jane Gilman, Rae Jin, Mindy Lake, Joanne McLaughlin, Caroline Stalley

WilshireRotary.org

IN THE DENTAL OFFICE is the all-woman trio (left to right): Dr. Sylva Bezian, Susie Dirmandzhyan and Varvoui Bosnoyan.

Helping to teach our kids to be problem solvers and have grit

By Casey Russell

At all stages of our lives, challenges arise. Problems — large and small — present themselves, and we must find our way through them. As parents, we are in a position to help our kids, not by solving their problems for them, but by teaching them how to work through difficulties and by giving them opportunities to practice the skills that will help them do so.

Developing the resilience to work through something difficult can be even more important than completing the task itself. Kids learn to keep trying. They learn that problems are nothing to be afraid of — they are actually part of life and can, most often, be worked through.

So how do we teach our kids problem-solving skills? How do we help them (and ourselves) be OK sitting in the discomfort that can come before an issue is resolved?

Young kids

For young kids, it’s important to provide opportunities for creative play. Simple puzzles, fort construction materials and basic building blocks give kids imaginative outlets, but also can present them with problems: “This puzzle is too hard!” “The fort won’t stay up!”

Rather than solving your kid’s problem for him, name the problem and the feeling he is having. “You’re having a hard time fitting that piece in. That can feel frustrating.” “That cushion keeps falling. You’re sad your fort won’t stay up.” Doing these simple things helps your child feel heard and also labels the root of the problem he is encountering.

As some of the frustration leaks away, you can ask your

little one what the hard part is. You can ask what he has tried and what else he thinks might work. This encourages him to think of a variety of solutions, which you can then help him implement. If he’s still having trouble, you can ask him if he’d like some suggestions.

Steps for kids 5 and older Problem-solving steps that have been developed to help kids can be taught to children as young as 5 years old.

First, identify the problem by naming it out loud. Next, brainstorm at least five possible ways to solve the problem. After that, think about the positives and negatives of each solution. Then, choose a solution to try. Finally, try out your chosen solution.

Parents can model these steps when we encounter problems. As we try to figure something out, we can speak aloud the steps we’re using. At times, we can purposefully make mistakes and let our kids see us persevering and trying different solutions.

We can also ask for our kids’ help in coming up with solutions for issues that arise in the family.

Perhaps your family is going on vacation and you need to figure out what to do with the dog or the cats. Maybe you all want to go to the Dodgers game, but tickets are really expensive. Talk out the problem as a family and let the kids help solve it. Refrain from negating their ideas, and remember to encourage the act of brainstorming.

Open-ended questions

For children aged 5 and up who seem a bit stuck, we can ask open-ended questions. Ask things like, “What problem are you having?” “What do you notice?” “What do you

The Plymouth School

Tips on Parenting by Casey Russell

think is stopping ___?” “What do you think will happen next?” “What could you do differently?” We can remind kids of times they’ve found solutions for things in the past. We can tell our children we have confidence in them and are here

if they want to talk through anything while brainstorming ideas.

Breaking problems down

Older kids can be encouraged to break a problem into chunks. You can liken a multistep problem to cleaning a room. Looking at the whole mess, the chore can seem completely overwhelming. But, if you break it up and simply make the bed… and then, put the clothes away, etc., the problem suddenly becomes manageable.

The power of “yet”

Helping kids learn to add

“yet” to the end of some of their sentences can also help. “I can’t do it!” becomes “I can’t do it yet.” “I don’t have any friends!” becomes “I don’t have any friends yet.” “Yet” ends finality and awakens possibility.

Kids who learn to be problem solvers develop grit, resilience and independence. They gain confidence and put their energy into solving problems rather than into avoiding things.

And that, in my opinion, is a great gift to give our kids as they go out into the world.

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Two GALA students compete in USRowing Youth Nationals

Ever wonder about that person in a rowing competition who sits in the back of the boat, seemingly just along for the ride, while the others work their tails (and arms) off on the oars?

“That would be the coxswain,” said Zohar

Abramovitz, rowing coach at MAC (Marina Aquatic Center).

The coxswain, pronounced “cox’n,” is often called The Ninth Seat because he, she or they accompanies eight-person boats, although USRowing decided that four-person (quad)

boats for age 16-and-under races should have one for safety issues. Coxswains are responsible for steering and directing team members and are generally the smallest person on the crew. Think of a coxswain as a cross between a jockey and a symphony con-

ductor; less weight equals more speed, and it’s good to have a focal point with so many moving parts.

Nationals

Sky Shannon and Zoe Chang are students at GALA (Girls Academic Leadership Academy), a local school focused on science, technology, engineering and math. Shannon and Chang are also serious competitors who represent the Marina del Rey-based club Marina Aquatic Center Junior Rowing.

Sky Shannon rows in a quad in the U17 age group, and Zoe Chang is coxswain in a U16 quad boat. Both vessels are sculling boats, which means each rower has two oars. Sweep rowers hold a single, larger oar in both hands.

The girls’ teammates are from Marymount High School, Flintridge Sacred Heart, Mira Costa High School, Geffen Academy, Palisades High School, Palos Verdes High School and Santa Monica High School. Both boats qualified for Nationals by medaling at the USRowing Southwest Youth Championships, which were held the first weekend of May at Lake Natoma in Folsom, California. They competed in the USRowing Youth Nationals in Sarasota, Florida, from June 8 to 11.

“We shipped our boats to

Youth Sports by Jim Kalin

Sarasota a week before flying the team out,” said Abramovitz.

Muscle

Sky Shannon grew up attending rowing competitions. Her grandfather rowed for UC Berkeley, and that inspired Shannon’s three older siblings to compete.

“I remember watching them carry their boats out of the water after a race, giving each other hugs with their big rower muscles,” she told us. “I couldn’t wait to be like them, not just because of the muscles, but for the unique bond that’s shared among teammates at MAC.”

Hard work forms bonds. Rowers practice two and a half hours a day, six days a week, 10 months a year.

“When training for Nationals, we often had a workout in the morning as well as our afternoon practice.”

Before rowing, Shannon was a dancer.

“I may not have been particularly graceful, but I learned so many skills involving body

(Please turn to page 22)

ROWERS (left to right) Sky Shannon, Dylan Jacob, Mia Mozenter, and Shannon Stuart. Photo by Hope Wilkinson

WINNING TEAM (left to right): Zohar Abramovitz, Avery Myrose, Jocelyn Demorest, Zoe Chang, Bella Tyson-Montgomery, Jacqueline Ward and Melanie Salter.

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A triumphant Warriors team returns home!

By Jake Greene

The Wilshire Warriors 9U

Blue all-star team won the PONY SoCal North Section Championship tournament in Bakersfield held from June 23 to 26. The Warriors defeated baseball teams from Camarillo, Simi Valley, Mis-

sion City and Bakersfield on their way to the title.

The players worked incredibly hard throughout the year, and all of their families volunteered at Pan Pacific Park during the rec baseball season this spring. Everyone is excited to hang another banner on Field 1!

Left: COACHES (rear, left to right):

NEW COVENANT ACADEMY Sue Jung Park 11th Grade

New Covenant students can be excited for the 2023 / 2024 school year, as teachers and staff worked hard over the summer to make this year the best one yet! This year is definitely special as it marks the 25th anniversary of our school.

Youth Sports

(Continued from page 20) movement and following a rhythm, both crucial components in rowing.”

Her boat placed eighth in Sarasota last month.

Mind

Zoe Chang will tell you she’s 5’2”, but she admits she’s probably an inch shorter.

“I originally wanted to be a rower,” she said.

Coxing suits Zoe Chang’s personality and her physique. There’s no single right way to cox, so it’s a lot of trial and error.

“Coxing isn’t physically challenging, but it’s definitely complex. I think that’s what made it so intimidating for me in the beginning, but once I settled in, I gradually became more comfortable in the coxswain seat.”

In Sarasota, Chang’s boat battled the other semifinal winner, a California team from the Bay Area, in a tight title race, before pulling ahead to grab the gold medal by just under three seconds.

There’s a tradition in row-

The fall semester kicks off Mon., Aug. 7. NCA’s annual Convocation will also take place that day. Teachers and students will get closer as a school community with prayers leading us into the new school year.

The girls’ volleyball season is starting soon. Feel free to come cheer them on at their upcoming games. Students interested in writing, photography or design can join the yearbook club. I am definitely looking forward to what the new chapter of our school holds.

ing. When a boat wins a notable race, such as the national championship, the team tosses the coxswain into the water. Fortunately, in Sarasota, that didn’t happen to Zoe Chang.

“It was Florida,” she said. “You have to consider the alligators.”

Dentistry for Children and Young Adults

Antonio Andrade, Dave Felton, Jake Greene and Channing Barringer. Middle row: players Nate Ranen, Cameron Greene, Amar Prakash Khalsa, Jesse Holdridge, Nathan Kuroki-Sammons, Jack Barringer, Connor Liao and Nathan Brill. Kneeling (left to right): Ezra Estrada, Nico Hashimoto and Louis Ignacio. Not pictured: Coach Jon Blenner, Max Blenner and Cayden Romanick.