Larchmont Chronicle H
VOL. 59, NO. 12 • DELIVERED TO 76,439 READERS IN HANCOCK PARK • WINDSOR SQUARE • FREMONT PLACE • MIRACLE MILE • PARK LA BREA • LARCHMONT •
IN THIS ISSUE
New building is on very top of Alexandria House wish list
ON THE BOULEVARD
Season is looking bright
n Donations sought to purchase 39-unit site
HOLIDAY issue.
LOCAL politics, fiction, area lanterns. 8
WINTER wonderland, twice nightly. 11
NEW TREE on the Boulevard. 2-4 For Information on Advertising Rates, Please Call Pam Rudy 323-462-2241, x 11 Mailing permit:
By Suzan Filipek Sister Judy Vaughan, executive director of Alexandria House, is hopeful she will have enough donations by the end of the month to purchase an adjacent building for low-cost, permanent, supportive housing. The nun, who is with the order of the Sisters of St. Joseph Carondelet, has managed Alexandria House transitional shelter for 25 years on prayers, communal meals and largely private donations. Her goal of raising $12 million to buy and renovate the 39-unit apartment building directly behind Alexandria House is not a pipe dream. “We’ve been really lucky. We’ve been really blessed. We’ve had a lot of miracles. … See Alexandria House, p 15
Christmas trees are on Larchmont The Wilshire Rotary tree lot, at 568 N. Larchmont Blvd., was scheduled to be open and add joy to the season by the time we went to press. “We will have noble and Douglas firs along with wreaths and garlands,” Rotarian Wendy Clifford told us. “Fresh trees will be delivered in each of the two following weeks (never sure of the exact days they arrive).” However, if you want a noble fir, call ahead to get the delivery date, as they may run short, Clifford said. The tree lot is open 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Health, Fitness & Beauty
Feel and look your best in 2022! Read the annual Health, Fitness & Beauty section in the January issue of the Larchmont Chronicle. Advertising deadline is Thurs., Dec. 9. For more information contact Pam Rudy, 323-462-2241, ext. 11.
DECEMBER 2021
n Holiday shopping
FAMILIES SOCIALIZING at the Alexandria House holiday party.
Mix good deeds with fun for a holiday cocktail n Events are online and some are back in-person By Nona Sue Friedman Now that the holidays are upon us and we are able to leave our homes, it’s a wonderful feeling to help others. Sometimes helping means attending a festive event to raise funds for an organization, and sometimes it’s volunteering to create fun for someone else. Whichever you prefer, here are some opportunities. Even adults want to feel special, particularly over the holidays. Help make that happen by participating in the Alexandria House annual Holiday Toy Drive. This drive benefits more than 100 families. Alexandria House is looking
DIGGING DEEP for treasure from Alexandria House.
for new, unused toys for kids of all ages and gift cards for teenagers and adults. Check out alexandriahouse.org/holiSee Mix good deeds, p 13
By Billy Taylor Things are looking bright in Larchmont Village, and it’s not just the holiday lights. In recent weeks, several new businesses have opened, or announced openings, in the beloved shopping district. On the southwest end of the block, urban sportswear label Corridor is now open in a permanent space at 141 N. Larchmont Blvd. Store manager Orly Menachem told us that the NYC-based menswear line by designer Dan Snyder picked Larchmont as one of two Los Angeles locations, the brand’s first expansion outside of NYC. “We are happy to be a part of the Larchmont community,” See On the Blvd., p 6
New year, new councilmember, new districts Meet your new, and your continuing, councilmembers, and see drafts of the redistricting maps scheduled for a final vote on Dec. 1. See Sec. 2, pp 10 and 11
Families celebrate the holidays, together n Joy to the World! Locals cautiously plan celebrations near and far By Helene Seifer After a bleak year of missed celebrations, are we able to safely gather for seasonal festivities again? Local families mix caution with optimism for holiday gatherings. Careful mingling with friends “I’m all about Christmas,” declares Simone Young Smith. “It’s such a great family time. I get out the Rat Pack Christmas CD.” First, a tree is selected and “decorations go up outside straight away.” Getting in the holiday spirit often includes a trip to Century City to enjoy the mall’s decorations and get a little shopping started. The Windsor Square resident (who owns her own public relations company), her husband, actor Mark Smith,
turned to their former homeland, England. After quarantining for five days, they spent the remainder of their two-week visit with family for Christmas. This year, they plan a mixture of family-only time and careful mingling with friends. See Families, p 25
Summer Camps & Programs
CHRISTMAS SHOPPING pre-pandemic are Mark Smith, son Brodie, 17, Simone Young Smith. In front, son Stirling, 10.
and sons Brodie, 17, and Stirling, 10, were lucky last year. While many hunkered down in household units, they re-
Summer will be here before you know it. Sign up early to get the best camp for your family. Camps will be featured in the January issue of the Larchmont Chronicle. Advertising deadline is Thurs., Dec. 9. For more information contact Pam Rudy, 323-462-2241, ext. 11.
www.larchmontchronicle.com ~ Entire Issue Online!
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Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
SECTION ONE
Editorial By John Welborne
Much for which to be thankful Although the 24-hour news stations want to keep us frightened about variants from A to Omega, I think the focus should be on the positive … on that for which we should be thankful. First and foremost, kudos go to the scientists who have produced vaccines that are largely effective. Of course, you have to take the vaccine to protect yourself and others. Less globally, all of us at the Larchmont Chronicle join me in thanking our supportive readers who not only have sent to the newspaper your checks in the reply envelopes included in the November issue, but also have written personal notes of encouragement. That says and means a lot — not only to us — but also to the community around us. Similar support to local merchants is evidence of what makes this community so desirable — for more than 100 years, as celebrated this past October. Residents’ and businesspeople’s commitment to our neighborhoods and the city that surrounds us is a hallmark of Larchmont. Once again, “Happy Holidays” to all of you! Next year will be the Chronicle’s 60th year of sharing this season.
Sun., Dec. 5 – All Saints’ Beverly Hills Choir’s Advent Festival of Lessons and Carols, 5 p.m. Wed., Dec. 8 – Ebell of Los Angeles Holiday Boutique and Luncheon, 10 – 6 p.m. Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council board meeting via Zoom, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Check greaterwilshire. org to confirm and for login. Sun., Dec. 11 – Junior League of Los Angeles Harvest Boutique at Skirball Center, 12 – 5 p.m. Fri., Dec. 24 – Christmas Eve. Sat., Dec. 25 – Christmas Day. Thurs., Dec. 30 – Delivery of the Larchmont Chronicle. Fri., Dec. 31 – New Year’s Eve.
That’s the question inquiring photographer Caroline Tracy asked locals along Larchmont Blvd.
Sat., Jan. 1 – New Year’s Day and the Rose Parade.
Letters to the Editor
“This year I’m wishing for a proper holiday party — an in-person affair. I feel like we have all been missing that.” Anne McAllister (right, with Caroline Tracy) Hancock Park
Chronicle fans sent notes with checks last month:
The Holiday Superstore
My Beloved Joe always enjoyed reading the Larchmont paper, especially the real estate section!! Thank you. Mary Ann Turkmany & Family Great issue celebrating the 100th anniversary of Larchmont. All the best. Tom Kranz We appreciate you!! Matt & Anna Mackey You do a fabulous job. Thank you!! Best, Grace Fritzinger I’m a new addition to the Larchmont community and just love reading your monthly paper! Thank you. Michael Doneff
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‘What is at the top of your holiday wish list this year?’
Calendar
COSTUMED CAROLERS ring in the holiday spirit on Larchmont Boulevard Nov. 19. Photo by Billy Taylor
“I’m wishing for peace and happiness for all, after a turbulent year.” “I’m wishing to be with my mother, who’s in hospice in Virginia. We are going to be with her and the family for the holidays, so my wish is coming true.” JC William and Carol Woods Chesterfield Square
Larchmont Chronicle Founded in 1963 by Jane Gilman and Dawne P. Goodwin .
.
Publisher and Editor John H. Welborne Managing Editor Suzan Filipek Deputy Managing Editor Billy Taylor Contributing Editor Jane Gilman Staff Writers Talia Abrahamson Helene Seifer Advertising Director Pam Rudy Advertising Sales Caroline Tracy Art Director Tom Hofer Classified and Circulation Manager Nona Sue Friedman Accounting Jill Miyamoto 606 N. Larchmont Blvd., #103
Los Angeles, CA 90004 323-462-2241 larchmontchronicle.com
TOP: SNOWMAN greets Santa and friends arriving on a train, and (above) a Nutcracker stands guard on Plymouth Boulevard. Front page, top left: Santa enjoys the neighborhood’s sunny weather.
“I’m looking forward to being with my family in Georgia. It’s been two years since I’ve been in my hometown.” “I want science stuff this year, like a magnifying glass and an exploding volcano kit — yeah I really want to try that.” “I’m still working on my list.” Anne Pearce with daughters Carter (7) and Jane (5), Larchmont Village
Photos by Ron Mulligan
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.
Correction
Bill Gordean’s name was misspelled in the November 2021 article “Community welcomes a friendly new Attitude Café.”
“I want stuffed animals and Aero chocolate.” “I want a Minecraft Goat Plushie.” “I want Lindor and Aero chocolate this year.” Asha Cherian, Larchmont Village; Eloise Speer, Hancock Park; Georgia Angle, Brookside
Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
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Mystery store built at The Grove during COVID-19 By John Welborne A local mystery, ongoing since the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdowns in early spring of 2020, has been solved! Suddenly, in April and May of 2020, the former Crate & Barrel store at The Grove disappeared. No, not just the tenant, but the entire building! What was the construction activity underway? We asked folks at landlord Caruso, but nobody was talking. Nobody would say what was to come. Then, slowly, new construction activity began taking place behind fences. Most intriguing, viewed from the upper levels of The Grove’s parking structure, were substantial foundations being built on the ground level of what appeared to be a wideopen, three-story-high, single room. By October of 2020, steel roof girders spanned the vast
SECTION ONE
SISTER Judy Vaughan with her helper, Jerry. 1 ENTERTAINMENT On the Menu Theater SCHOOL NEWS YOUTH SPORTS
18 20 26 28
SECTION TWO VIEW:
Real Estate Libraries, Museums Home & Garden
CHANGES districtwide. 10 HOME GROUND 2 ON PRESERVATION 3 MUSEUMS 9 REAL ESTATE SALES 10 AT THE MOVIES 12 LIBRARIES 13 A TINY CHALLENGE 14 POLICE BEAT 14 POKER FOR ALL 15 BEEZWAX 15 CLASSIFIED ADS 15
Left: CRATE & BARREL literally bit the dust at The Grove, leaving an empty site in May 2020. Right: A TOWER CRANE helped build the new mystery building, including its wide-span steel roof. October 2020 photo.
space. Would it become some sort of a restaurant with magnificent outdoor dining, yearround, a turn-on-a-dime redesign by an architect because of the pandemic? What would it be? But again, nobody was talking. It was said to be a private project, not being built by Caruso, and Caruso’s representatives would not comment. A little investigative diligence in 2021 revealed the name of the architect who had
signed the building permit applications. Further research showed him to be a partner in the San Francisco office of Foster + Partners. That firm, founded by architect Norman Foster and headquartered in London, is famous for many buildings, including London City Hall; the “Gherkin Building,” also in London; 1985’s HSBC Building in Shanghai; the reconstruction of the Reichstag Building in Berlin; (Please turn to page 4)
ALL WRAPPED UP, one year later in October 2021, the new store had yet to be announced. Santa flies nearby!
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Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
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BIG DOORS mark the welcoming entrance to the new Apple Store at The Grove.
Grove store (Continued from page 3) the Torre de Collserola, built in Barcelona at the time of the 1992 Olympics; and many, many more. One of the firm’s major commissions was Apple Park, the computer company’s circular headquarters in Cupertino, California. And, lo and behold, Foster + Partners also has been
a major contributor to Apple Store designs around the world. Remember the glass cube in front of the General Motors Building on Fifth Avenue in New York? Foster + Partners. And there is a modern, large Apple Store with a huge open space and landscaping facing Union Square in San Francisco. Foster + Partners again. And, in a very different vein, Foster + Partners was respon-
Shop on Larchmont Boulevard this holiday season.
INTERIOR features mature trees and a mirror ceiling.
sible for a significant (and recent award-winning) local historic preservation project. The architects designed the new Apple Store in the historic Tower Theater on Broadway in Downtown Los Angeles. Funny thing, the architect for that Apple Store is the same one who signed the permit application for the mysterious new building at The Grove! Definitely a clue. Finally, in early November, the cat was let out of the bag. Surprise! What would be this new building at The Grove? A new Apple Store! On November 19, the new store opened, and the old store across the fountain closed. Among the first-day visitors was Apple
• Books • Candles • Children’s Clothes • Dining • Flowers • Jewelry • Menswear • Women’s Clothing • Pet Accessories • Wine
CEO Tim Cook. The new store has twice the space of the old one, which apparently was among the busiest Apple stores in the world, with 27 million visitors since it opened 19 years ago.
APPLE CEO TIM COOK joined Apple fans and employees at the November 19 opening. Photo by Suzan Filipek
Squeaky Wheels, youths, preservationists By John Welborne For the 20th year — at its “Town Hall” meeting in midNovember — the Windsor Square Association announced its annual Squeaky Wheel Award that is presented to “residents of Windsor Square, not Association board members, whose persistence in addressing an issue of community concern protects or improves the quality of life in Windsor
Square.” The 2021 awardees, representing many resilient Larchmont merchants in the shopping district’s 100th year, were Windsor Square residents Dimitris and Nora Houndalas for their “Perseverance Maintaining Larchmont’s Le Petit Greek Restaurant.” Also at the Town Hall meeting, current Council District Four Councilmember Nithya Raman bade (Please turn to page 10)
BOARD CHAIR of the Anderson Munger Family YMCA, Chase Campen, welcomes guests.
PATTI CARROLL introduces fellow Y board members.
… just to name a few gift ideas!
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Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
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Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
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Author Connelly releases new novel depicting area By Billy Taylor Mystery writer Michael Connelly is at it again, this time penning a new thriller that includes depictions of our Greater Wilshire neighborhoods impacted by the pandemic and recent social unrest. Many of our Larchmont Chronicle readers are fans of the just-concluded “Bosch” Amazon TV series. Based upon the novels starring Detective Harry Bosch written by Michael Connelly, the TV show, like the novels, is set in Los Angeles. Fea-
tured is the nearby Hollywood Police Station on Wilcox and De Longpre avenues. Because the action frequently is in this part of town, the Greater Wilshire neighborhoods often are used as locations for the TV show. For example, the television home of the successful criminal defense lawyer, Honey “Money” Chandler, is in New Windsor Square. Lawyer Chandler is a character who continues in the just-named “Bosch” spinoff coming from IMDb TV sometime next year, “Bosch: Legacy.” Filming of
the spinoff’s first season’s 10 episodes is complete, and location trucks and crews often were seen throughout our part of town in recent months. The Dark Hours Just released last month (Nov. 9) was Connelly‘s latest novel, his 36th, “The Dark Hours.” Featuring the LAPD Hollywood Division’s latenight detective, Renée Ballard, the novel also includes retired LAPD detective, now private investigator, Harry Bosch! Our Greater Wilshire neigh-
borhoods and institutions are involved in “The Dark Hours” plot. To give our local readers a taste of what is to come (and the book can be purchased at Chevalier’s, of course), the Larchmont Chronicle hereby presents a shameless, albeit certainly unneeded, plug and preview for the new book, lifted from the website, michaelconnelly. com: “A brazen and methodical killer strikes on New Year’s Eve [2021], and LAPD Detective Renée Ballard and Harry Bosch must join forces to find justice for the victim in a city scarred by fear and social unrest, in the new thriller from #1 “New York Times” best selling author Michael Connelly. “There’s chaos in Hollywood at the end of the New Year’s Eve countdown. Working her graveyard shift, LAPD Detective Renée Ballard waits out
On the Blvd. (Continued from page 1)
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said Menachem, noting that although it’s a men’s store, many women shoppers will enjoy the selection of cardigans and sweaters, which are all designed in-house. Next door, Bacio di Latte is working to bring Italianstyle gelato and other sweet treats to 141½ Larchmont Blvd. The storefront window currently is covered with images of decadent gelato, but according to a store representative, that is to conceal renovations as they update the space. The new location is expected to open before June 2022, where freshlymade gelato will be produced in-store each day. In the former Lipson Building at 126-148 N. Larchmont Blvd., new owner Christina Development announced the first two tenants signed to inhabit the revitalized storefronts. Hawaiian-based Holey Grail Donuts, known for its taro-based donuts, picked the building as its first location in Los Angeles, with one more store anticipated to open in Santa Monica. The second retailer, Skin Laundry, is a California-based skincare brand with more than 20 clinics across the globe, that offers laser facials and beauty products to treat a variety of skin concerns. Both retailers expect to open in mid-2022. Lastly, residents can expect a FedEx Office to open in the former Trina Turk space, at 212 N. Larchmont Blvd., sometime in 2022.
THE DARK HOURS by Michael Connelly debuted Nov. 9.
the traditional rain of lead as hundreds of revelers shoot their guns into the air. Only minutes after midnight, Ballard is called to a scene where a hardworking auto shop own(Please turn to page 8)
skin
deep by Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald
You’re not alone in more harshly evaluating how you’re aging since Zoom entered our daily lives. While we’re grateful to video conferencing for keeping us safe and connected, it’s also shined a spotlight on creases, folds and lines we didn’t know we had. We are accustomed to looking at static photos of ourselves, so Zoom and company offer a unique perspective on our aging faces simply because of their video format. Now we’re regularly viewing the quality, texture and laxity of our skin as we speak and respond on camera. As humans, of course we think others are zeroing in on our flaws as well, (psst…they’re not, they’re looking at their own!) While Botox and fillers are always in season, now is the time for lasers and skin-tightening devices. What your critical eye perceives as age is actually shadows from volume loss coupled with loose skin. Increasing collagen and tightening your skin will minimize shadows and reflect more light (the little known hallmark of a youthful appearance). Visit our website, rebeccafitzgeraldmd.com, where we have carefully selected the ideal combination of devices and skincare to tighten and build collagen, ranging from the least amount of downtime to the most – and where we will soon be announcing our holiday specials. Dr. Rebecca Fitzgerald is a Board Certified Dermatologist located in Larchmont Village with a special focus on anti-aging technology. She is a member of the Botox Cosmetic National Education Faculty and is an international Training Physician for Dermik, the makers of the injectable Sculptra. She is also among a select group of physicians chosen to teach proper injection techniques for Radiesse, the volumizing filler, around the world. Dr. Fitzgerald is an assistant clinical professor at UCLA. Visit online at www.RebeccaFitzgeraldMD. com or call (323) 464-8046 to schedule an appointment.
Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
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Wilshire Rotary’s
Christmas Tree Lot
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on Larchmont!
Freshly Cut Oregon Trees, Douglas Fir and Noble, Wreaths & Garlands Tabletop to 10 foot sizes available Pre-ordered trees available for selection & pickup November 29
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Fresh-cut Douglas & Noble trees Wreaths & Garlands 568 North Larchmont Blvd.
Across from Page Private School Delivery Available 323-464-1935 If you’re going to buy Christmas trees this year, please help Rotary invest in our community. 100% of the proceeds go to The Wilshire Rotary Foundation & are spent in support of humanitarian, educational, and cultural programs and their operations. So celebrate the holidays and know that your money spent at our lot is going to help others — a win, win for everyone!!! Our Christmas Tree lot is located on Larchmont Blvd. across from Page Private School (between Beverly & Melrose).
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Net proceeds from the Christmas Tree Lot go to the Rotary International Foundation and the Wilshire Rotary Foundation to benefit Rotary Service Projects in our community and around the world. For more information visit www.rotary.org or www.wilshirerotary.org.
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Connelly (Continued from page 6) er has been fatally hit by a bullet in the middle of a crowded street party. “Ballard quickly concludes that the deadly bullet could not have fallen from the sky and that it is linked to another unsolved murder — a case at one time worked by Detective Harry Bosch. At the same time, Ballard hunts a fiendish pair of serial rapists, the Mid-
Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
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night Men, who have been terrorizing women and leaving no trace. “Determined to solve both cases, Ballard feels like she is constantly running uphill in a police department indelibly changed by the pandemic and recent social unrest. It is a department so hampered by inertia and low morale that Ballard must go outside to the one detective she can count on: Harry Bosch. But as the two inexorable detec-
tives work together to find out where old and new cases intersect, they must constantly look over their shoulders. The brutal predators they are tracking are ready to kill to keep their secrets hidden.” Not to provide spoilers … but … that auto shop is on either Gower or Cahuenga, and Citrus and Lucerne figure in the rape investigation. Plus, Larchmont and Chevalier’s get shout-outs. And there is more…
OLD ENGLISH hanging lanterns on Bronson are now equipped with LED lights.
Bronson’s unique lanterns shine brightly with LED By Billy Taylor At a Chevalier’s Books exclusive Nov. 11 book release event, author Michael Connelly shared with the virtual audience a little about his research process for new novel “The Dark Hours,” which included becoming familiar with the various types of streetlights that can be found across the City of Angels. Connelly cited “The Art of Street Lighting in Los Angeles,” (Dawson’s Book Shop, 1972), written by Park La Brea resident Eddy Feldman, as a book essential to that research, noting that the history and local politics of streetlights play a role throughout his new book. Feldman’s book was the first volume in the Los Angeles Miscellany series of 16 volumes published by the former Larchmont mainstay antiquarian book store (whose longtime home at 535 N. Larchmont is now for sale).
One local example of unique streetlights, which is discussed in Feldman’s book, can be found on Bronson Avenue, between 5th and 6th streets. Originally developed as Stratford Way by the McCarthy Company (which also developed Carthay Circle), this “mews block” features 14 smaller homes fashioned in Old English-style architecture. In keeping with the theme, the developers created Old English-style hanging lanterns mounted on redwood poles in a narrow strip of hedge on the west side of the street, to light the small block, where the residences are only on the east side of the street. Not only are the streetlights still in existence, but the city’s Bureau of Street Lighting recently rebuilt the lanterns, replacing the bulbs with new LED lights to shine brightly for years to come. (Some might argue that they now are too bright.)
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Squeaky Wheels (Continued from page 4) the community farewell, while thanking the attendees for the honor of serving them, and she promised she would continue to do so in whatever capacity possible from her new district. Earlier last month, the Anderson Munger Family YMCA thanked its donors for their support and unveiled large photo murals to show the Y’s appreciation. Chase Campen, board chair, oversaw the event, and Patti Carroll introduced board members. Among the supporters present were representatives of the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council, including President Conrad Starr (Sycamore Square), Carroll (St. Andrews Square), Charles D’Atri (Larchmont Village), John Winther (Business Representative) and former director
DONORS TO THE YMCA are recognized on big photo mural banners.
Max Kirkham. YMCA Executive Director Rae Jin described accomplishments at the Y during the year, and teen participants in Y activities described their experiences. A few days before, the Los Angeles Conservancy welcomed supporters and awardees to a “two-fer” event — an outdoor gathering at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, where the Conservancy’s
coveted annual Preservation Awards were presented for two years — 2020 and 2021. Not surprisingly, the Chair’s Award for 2021 recognized the extraordinary renovation of the Coliseum by the University of Southern California (and a long roster of collaborators). The 2020 Chair’s Award had a local connection, because it was presented to the City of Los Angeles for the adaptive
DAVID RYU is joined by fellow 2020 awardees Catherine Landers and Eric Villanueva at Los Angeles Conservancy event at the Coliseum on October 27, 2021.
reuse of the former Fourth Council District branch library that now is the Gardner Street Women’s Bridge Housing Center. Among those present to accept the award were the two leading propo-
nents of the housing project, former Councilmember David Ryu and his former deputy Catherine Landers. Also there was Eric Villanueva, who oversaw the project for the city’s Bureau of Engineering.
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Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
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Celebrate the holidays with snow this month at The Grove
By Billy Taylor Indulge in the spirit of the season at The Grove this month as the iconic property is transformed into a festive wonderland, complete with nightly snowfalls and trolley rides with Santa. In fact, organizers say that, throughout the month of December, visitors will find carolers and brass bands providing a soundtrack to shopping and dining, all while the famed Grove fountain dances to beloved holiday tunes. “Our properties are alive with the magic of the season: glittering lights, merry melodies and nightly snowfalls,” said Sunil Watumull, Caruso’s executive vice president of operations. “We take great pride in being a part of so many cherished traditions for our communities and look forward to granting every holiday wish our guests may have this year.” Flurries without the frost Those residents longing for a glimpse of snow can head to The Grove for twice-nightly
snowfalls that will transform the property into a winter wonderland from Nov. 26 to Dec. 25 at 7 and 8 p.m. Santa on his sleigh Santa Claus will wave hello, wishing guests a holly, jolly season as he rides through The Grove aboard his newest sleigh: a festive trolley. The twice-nightly appearances will be complemented by the snowfall and brass band performances. For the ultimate family photo, guests can reserve a private trolley ride with Old St. Nick (by reservations only via Bistro1759@caruso.com). Packages include a personal meetand-greet with Santa along with a choice from classic sips and sweets or a four-course dinner served on the trolley. Festival of lights In celebration of Hanukkah, The Grove will light its menorah each evening from Nov. 28 to Dec. 5. The Grove, together with Village Synagogue, will celebrate the holiday with a ceremonial lighting on the
evening of Thurs., Dec. 2. Christmas tree The holidays inspire traditions both old and new, and at The Grove, that means a majestic white fir has travelled from the Mt. Shasta region in Northern California to help make spirits bright here.
Each year a white fir is chosen only when it is nearing 80-years-old or older, marking the end of its woodland life cycle. Once the holiday celebrations come to a close, its branches are recycled for use as mulch and firewood. Most importantly, 10 new white fir
trees are planted in its place. Caruso’s Christmas tree at The Grove has more than 12,000 lights and more than 8,000 ornaments, adding up to 80 feet of splendor. Visit winterland.caruso.com for more information on this season’s events at The Grove.
Paid for by Mike Feuer City Attorney Officeholder ID# 1358890 419 N. Larchmont Blvd., #37 Los Angeles, CA 90004
CHRISTMAS TREE at The Grove soars 80 feet above guests, brimming with baubles, bows and bells.
KOONTZ
“THE HARDWARE STORE” formerly “Larchmont Hardware”
Are you ready for the Holidays? Koontz Hardware has all the lighting and decorations you need. We’ve got all kinds of LED holiday lighting in plug-in and batteryoperated styles of white, blue, green, red, and multicolor. Plus, check out our full line of ornaments and decorations, and don’t forget to pick up a Koontz Gift Card for the perfect present.
LC608
Happy Holidays to all our friends!
©LC1213
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Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
SECTION ONE
New Chapter House for Assistance League debuts in Hollywood By Nona Sue Friedman Assistance League of Los Angeles has created a new Chapter House in Hollywood at 6640 Sunset Blvd. The official ribbon-cutting on Nov. 18 was hosted by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. Councilman Mitch O’Farrell spoke and helped cut the ribbon. “The League has partnered with the Hollywood community since the early days of the film industry,” commented Board President Adrienne Seltzer of Hancock Park. In the early years, Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks were big supporters and fundraisers for the League. Seltzer continued, “How fitting that the new Chapter House contributes to the beautification of Hollywood while fulfilling our mission to help homeless, foster and impoverished children.” The welcoming modern
space of the new Chapter House was designed for the organization’s programming needs. The open floor plan of the upper level has high ceilings with the original 1930s bow-truss beams. That floor houses the business offices, a boardroom, and a retractable wall that opens onto a deck, giving the entire space an airy feel. Portraits of the League founders, Anne Banning and Ada Edwards Laughlin, overlook today’s volunteers. The lower level is where the organization’s programming happens. It’s filled with cubbies housing colorful clothes, shelves stacked with books and games, backpacks stuffed with essential items, and bright furnishings where kids can sit. A bonus to this building is its on-site storage for all the inkind donations received by the League, making it much easier for the volunteers to keep
325 N. Larchmont Boulevard, #158 Los Angeles, California 90004 www.windsorsquare.org 157 N. Larchmont Boulevard
Gratitude
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. ADV.
©LC1221
Fall is definitely in the air. Days are getting shorter and cooler, pumpkins decorate doorsteps and shop windows, many trees are changing color and dropping their leaves, and Thanksgiving has just gone by. But let’s not just save our gratitude for that one time of year. The Windsor Square Association would like to encourage us all to consider our many blessings throughout the year, and especially in December. One thing we at the WSA are particularly grateful for is the mature canopy of trees that shades and cools our historic neighborhood. We’ve recently added to that canopy by sponsoring the planting of a new tree on Larchmont Boulevard in connection with the celebration of the Boulevard’s 100th anniversary at the end of October. It is an African Fern Pine, the species chosen in consultation with the city as the replacement for the existing Ficus trees, as they gradually reach the end of their lifespans. The tree is located adjacent to Tailwaggers, and we’d like to express our thanks to the store and its staff for their commitment to watering the new tree. Our neighborhood boasts one of the largest and healthiest urban forests in California. During this ongoing drought, we encourage you to take care of your trees, including those in the parkway. Turn down your lawn sprinklers as cooler weather approaches, but it’s still wise to give your trees a good, long, slow soaking every few months. Now is a good time for pruning trees, most of which do not like severe trimming in hot months. And plant new trees! The WSA can help by supplying an appropriate parkway tree if you have a space. Let’s act on our gratitude all through December — shop locally and help Larchmont merchants thrive. Dine at our wide range of restaurants. Visit the local farmers market, open on Wednesdays and on Sundays. Welcome newcomers, and get to know your existing neighbors, if you don’t already. And thanks to all for making Windsor Square such a great place to live. For more information about the Windsor Square Association, go to our website: windsorsquare.org.
items stocked. The League was started more than 100 years ago by Banning and Laughlin, both of Hancock Park. They wanted to serve the needy children of Los Angeles. This continues to be the organization’s focus. As Kai Tramiel, senior director of membership and community engagement said, “(We) carry the founders’ legacy as best we can — transitioning as needed over the years.” The League is always looking for new members. Visit assistanceleaguela.org.
RIBBON-CUTTING a es the new ha ter ouse o a . ro e t are oun an t h ’ arre sa erw e e an e er ans dr enne e t er athy a er eron u er en se on. Photo by Nona Sue Friedman
McComb fêted by Miracle Mile for time served By Caroline Tracy The Greater Miracle Mile Chamber of Commerce (GMMCC) convened for one of its first in-person gatherings since early 2020 to “Roast and Toast” outgoing Executive Director Meg McComb. The celebratory affair took place on GMMCC member Hotel Wilshire’s roof (overlooking the Mile). Chamber Founder and President Steve Kramer and board members were joined by notable guests, including Los Angeles City Attorney Mike Feuer, in the roasting and toasting. Chris Devlin, GMMCC communications director, emceed the event, which featured a speaking / roasting portion, a Q&A with McComb, a champagne toast, presentation of gifts from Chamber members (Japan Foundation, Urban Florist, Fancifull Fine Foods
MEG McCOMB is presented a certificate of recognition from Assemblymember Richard Bloom’s office by District Director Josh Kurpies.
& Baskets) and a raffle (a staple at any Chamber event). “This event honoring Meg exceeded my expectations,” said Kramer. “Everyone was so happy to be there. People who hadn’t seen each other in a long time were enjoying being together — and they all came out for Meg.”
A force on the Mile for the past 10 years, McComb has spearheaded successful events such as the TarFest Luncheon (James Panozzo, co-founder of TarFest, was in attendance and took part in the roast) and the annual State of the Mile luncheon held at the El Rey Theater. Not one to fade away or shirk duties in light of her moving on, McComb has managed recent events, even past her retirement, including a walking tour of the Mile with State Sen. Ben Allen and the ribbon-cutting event at the new Staples “concept” store (designed to fit the needs of work-from-home, entrepreneurs and others). The Larchmont Chronicle also has learned that McComb will be consulting on all future events for the Chamber, because, in her own wise words, “nobody does it better.”
Larchmont Chronicle
Mix good deeds (Continued from page 1) days for wish lists. Drop gifts off at 436 S. Alexandria Ave. between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m by Fri., Dec. 17. The Ebell of Los Angeles Holiday Boutique is on Wed., Dec. 8 between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. If you want to make a day of it, pre-order a boxed lunch at ebellofla.com to be enjoyed in the clubhouse garden. Proceeds from the boutique benefit The Ebell’s programming. The Ebell also is collecting paperback books for veterans. Drop books off between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mon. to Fri. at 741 S. Lucerne Blvd. Big Sunday’s annual Holiday Party and Sing-A-Long is Sun., Dec. 12 from 3 to 5 p.m. at 6111 Melrose Ave. Each year, a diverse crew gets together to sing, eat and get festive! Big Sunday will also be collecting toys and food for hungry families at this event and throughout the month. Visit bigsunday.org. Los Angeles Mission is looking for volunteers and items to
DECEMBER 2021
make its Christmas event on Fri., Dec. 24 a success. A festive meal needs to be prepared and served, and gifts will be given away along with essentials to the unhoused on Skid Row. If you are interested in helping with the meal, possibly alongside a celebrity, go to losangelesmission.org. There also is a contactless drop-off center. The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles is sponsoring its virtual Festival of Lights Toy & Book Drive through Wed., Dec. 15. Simply visit JewishLA.org/ToyDrive2021. You’ll find a dozen organizations that are looking for toys and books this holiday season. Each organization has its own wish list. Just click and purchase, and it’ll be sent for you. Now you’ve made a child’s holiday special! If helping foster families is what inspires you, check out the Korean American Family Services site at kfamla.org/ donate. The organization has partnered with the Asian Foster Family Initiative, and both are looking to raise money through December for their families.
All kids are anxious for Santa’s arrival. By donating to the Karsh Center at Wilshire Boulevard Temple you can be someone’s Santa. Karsh is collecting new, unused toys to distribute to the community. To donate or learn more, contact Madeleine@karshcenter.org. All donations are due by Mon., Dec. 13 at 3750 W. 6th St. Uplift Family Services’ campus will be transformed into Santa’s Workshop for a day of shopping for 250 families and needs toys and gift cards to make the day a success. Drop off donations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at 5930
SECTION ONE
FAMILY COLLECTS its holiday gifts from Karsh Center.
Gregory Ave. by Fri., Dec. 10. Make an entire family feel
special this holiday with Aviva Family and Children’s Services Adopt-A-Family. You can also sponsor a specific child. All gifts are due by Fri., Dec. 3. Visit aviva.org/2021-holidaydrive for links. Covenant House California, which serves at-risk and homeless youth, is hosting a holiday party and is looking for new pillows, backpacks, sweatshirts and gift cards. Please drop items at 1325 N. Western Ave. by Fri., Dec. 17 or visit covenanthousecalifornia.org/Donate-Items for an Amazon Wish List with direct delivery.
Harvest Boutique to feature lunch, music, honoree The Junior League of Los Angeles (JLLA) will hold its 22nd annual Harvest Boutique, “Where Giving is Always in Style,” on Sun., Dec. 12 from noon to 5 p.m. at the Skirball Center. The in-person event includes live entertainment, a curated vendor fair, threecourse lunch, open bar and silent auction. Rachel S. Moore will receive the League’s 2021 Community Achievement Award. Moore is president and CEO of the Music Center of Los Angeles County. She leads the $70 million organization and manages its staff. She also guides
the Center’s K-12 arts education initiatives. Proceeds from the event support JLLA’s many community p a r t n e r s Rachel Moore and projects that serve children and the community. Virtual tickets are $25 and include online access to the curated boutique of artisans and vendors. General admission is $125, and VIP tickets are $200. Visit jlla.org/eventsharvest-boutique.
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Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
SECTION ONE
Michael Cornwell, 87: Protected Windsor Square By John Welborne Longtime board member and president of the Windsor Square Association, Michael A. Cornwell, died in Pasadena on Oct. 18. He was 87. Cornwell worked at the Truman Van Dyke Company, Speare & Company and Disc Insurance, providing coverage for film and television productions, documentaries and commercials. He also was a member of the U.S. Army Reserve, retiring with the rank of colonel. Historic preservation Cornwell was born — and grew up — in Los Angeles, attending Hamilton High School and UCLA. Concerned with architectural and cultural preservation in his city, he was appointed, in the early 2000s, to serve on the City of Los Angeles Cultural Heri-
tage Commission, and he later was elected the commission’s president. He also served as chairman of The Committee for Simon Rodia’s Towers in Watts, and he was a member of the Los Angeles Conservancy and Pasadena Heritage. For decades, he and his wife, Diane, resided on Norton Avenue in Windsor Square, and they later moved to Pasadena. Diane died in April 2020. As described by daughter Molly, in an obituary notice posted for her father, “Everyone who knew him well would probably describe Mike as a ‘character.’ He was fun, with a dry sense of humor and a winning smile. He was always quick to give a compliment and set people at ease. He was exceptionally polite, always holding doors open for folks,
Joseph J. Turkmany – 1929-2021
A resident of Citrus Ave. since 1964, Joe Turkmany passed away peacefully on October 17, 2021. He is survived by Mary Ann, his wife of 63 years; his children Chris (Elizabeth), J.J. Jr. (Lisa), Alicia (Tony), and Janet (Fr. John); and 11 grandchildren: Jessica, Jillian, Jenna, Chance, Alexa, Cassiana, Kaelyn Jo, Emmanuelle, Olivia, Marina, and Andrew. Funeral Mass was held on November 5 at American Martyrs Church in Manhattan Beach.
ADV.
even until his last days riding the elevator at Villa Gardens in Pasadena.” Park Mile Specific Plan This writer knew Mike well. He never failed to accept the mantle of leadership in defending the historic Windsor Square community where he lived. In addition to his service on the board of the Windsor Square Association, especially as president for many years, Cornwell also stood up for the community in 1983, as president of Rapid Transit Advocates, Inc. That nonprofit organization challenged the sufficiency of the Southern California Rapid Transit District’s 1983 environmental impact report analyzing the consistency of its subway construction plans with applicable General Plans of the County of Los Angeles and the City of Los Angeles. Cornwell’s efforts were a primary reason why the adopted Park Mile Specific Plan continues to protect the historic character of the residential neighborhoods north and south of Wilshire Boulevard between Wilton Place and Highland Avenue. Diane and Mike loved to travel. Mike also loved to garden. He spent hours in his deep back yard on Norton Avenue, planting and pruning to
MICHAEL CORNWELL receives the Windsor Square Associat on’s uea y hee ward a on w th two other or er res dents ane sher e t and aro yn a say.
create a place of beauty and refuge for himself, his family and friends. In addition to being preceded in death by Diane, Mike also outlived his parents, his sister, and his and Diane’s daughter Amy. He is survived by daughter Molly and his granddaughter Miranda, as well as by his nephews
John and Robert Moore. Anyone who would like to donate in Cornwell’s memory may do so either to Union Station Homeless Services in Pasadena or the League to Save Lake Tahoe in South Lake Tahoe, California. A service at All Saints Church in Pasadena is pending.
Al Margolis — April 4, 1928-September 22, 2021 A
lfred Lee Margolis, retired judge, Los Angeles County Superior Court, passed away on September 22, 2021 in Camden, Maine. Al’s life began on April 4, 1928 in Dayton, Ohio where he grew up with his parents, David and Annabelle Margolis, and his sister, Joni. Al’s family operated a department store in Dayton and his neighborhood was populated with cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents. Young Al enjoyed boxing and he developed a lifelong love of swimming and horseback riding. Al would recount that the part of his life that mattered most began at 17 when he met Margery Levy on a summer afternoon during a family visit at Camp Wenonah in Naples, Maine. During the subsequent four years of courtship, Al graduated from Culver Military Academy and started college at Stanford University. Al was fond of telling the story, “..stop me if you’ve heard this..,” of how Stanford had mistakenly admitted him, requiring him to take his SAT exams midway through his freshman year. Al and Margie married in her hometown of Cleveland in 1949, and then returned to California where Al would finish college and then start law school. Like so many of his generation, Al’s studies were interrupted while he served in the Korean Conflict. As Quartermaster Bakery Officer for the US Army, his Jeep was easily identifiable by a loaf of bread painted on one side and an ice cream cone on the other! Upon completing his tour of duty, Al and Margie returned to Cleveland, where Al continued his law studies at Case
Western Reserve. Al served on the Law Review and graduated as a member of the Order of the Coif, a national honor society for law school graduates. Al’s career in law began with the U.S. Treasury in Washington D.C. and continued in Los Angeles, where he would eventually start his private law practice. As a notable tax lawyer (Al was one of the authors of the CEB tax practice treatise sitting on the bookshelves of many tax specialists), Al’s talents were recognized by Governor Ronald Reagan with an appointment to the L.A. Municipal Court. A few years later, Gov. Reagan elevated Al to the L.A. County Superior Court, where he served until his retirement. Al was honored as “Trial Judge of the Year” by the L.A. Trial Lawyers Association. He also served as president of the Los Angeles Law Library, a role which gave him great joy. Al took great delight in mentoring several young lawyers and was honored to swear them in after they passed the bar exam. The many weddings performed by Al—including one on horseback—gave him the chance to forge even stronger personal ties with those friends, and friends’ children, in whose futures Al was personally invested. Los Angeles in the 1960s and ’70s was also where Al and Margie raised their three children, Ellen, Michael and Jane. Family auto trips in the station wagon were a summer staple, often focusing on California’s rich cultural history and vast natural beauty. Al and Margie loved adventure and never passed up a chance to travel with their children. Even though he never owned a horse, Al’s early love of horse-
back riding continued throughout his life. He was a founding member of the trail riding group, Cowboy Lawyers, and a member of the Wickenburg, Arizona-based Desert Caballeros for over 40 years. These rides blended camaraderie with beautiful natural surroundings, trail riding with sleeping under the stars. Al and Margie shared their love of horse adventures with their children, and later their grandchildren, on horse pack trips in the Colorado Rockies. Al and Margie traveled extensively together, beginning with a youth tour of Europe months before they married. Over the years, they travelled throughout much of the U.S. They visited every continent and many remote regions of the world. They made many lifelong friends on their adventures, and often hosted international guests when home. In 2003, Al and Margie bought a house on beautiful Seven Tree Pond in Union, Maine. What was supposed to be a summer place quickly took over as their year-round home as
they fell in love with their new community and with the natural beauty of their surroundings. Maine had always occupied a special place in their hearts, so this was very much a homecoming. Al immersed himself in community life, volunteering on advisory boards for the Pen Bay YMCA in Camden and the Vose Library in Union. Al remained interested in current events and the law until his death. He read the newspapers daily and engaged in lively discussions on social and political issues. He had a remarkably keen memory and immense curiosity. In his last days, he voiced the hope that he was leaving the world a better place than when he entered it. For those who knew him, that was certainly true. He was a man of small stature, but had a huge heart, He was generous with his love and will be greatly missed. Al is survived by his wife of 72 years, Margery Levy Margolis; three children, Ellen Rosenberg and husband Robert, Michael Margolis and wife Mary Bourke, and Jane Pierce and husband David; nine grandchildren, Michael Rosenberg, Ari Rosenberg, Sarah Rosenberg, Sam Brosnan, Molly Brosnan, Rick Pierce, Mitchell Pierce, Bridgette McCarthy, and Alison Wheat; and six great-grandchildren, Corin, Joey and Mara Brosnan, Fiona McCarthy, Denham Wheat and Tzeda Accordino. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Penobscot Bay YMCA, 116 Union Street, P.O. Box 840, Rockport, ME 04856. Memories and condolences may be shared at directcremationofmaine@ gmail.com.
Adv.
Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
Alexandria House
(Continued from page 1) “There’s something captivating and motivating about this place,” Vaughan added. Alexandria House consists of two turn-of-the-last-century homes, with palace-worthy ornate molding and rich wood paneling, and they are indeed charming. But Vaughan’s sparkling blue eyes, determined spirit and formidable mission are also compelling. Front lines She has been on the front lines helping homeless women and children get a new start in life, and she works to ensure they succeed after they leave. “I wanted to make sure they wouldn’t be homeless again. And I learned it’s important to be part of a neighborhood.” She learned that lesson, she said, at the House of Ruth, a homeless shelter for women in East Los Angeles, which she ran before opening Alexandria House. The shelters reach out to the community with yoga classes,
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Judy Vaughan and Pamela Hope, director of grants and events, at Alexandria House. The 39-unit apartment building that is for sale is in the rear.
a book club, after-school programs and a teen center. Food donated by grocery stores is given to neighbors. A popular monthly thrift sale “shopping day,” which had been paused during the pandemic, is expected to resume in December. In turn, shelter residents gain by being part of the community. Vaughan is hoping to expand her mission with the apartment building. It is in an ideal spot, just steps behind their back yard on South Ken-
DECEMBER 2021 Christmas at St. Brendan Christmas Eve Friday, December 24 4pm 6pm 9pm Christmas Day
Saturday, December 25 8am
9:45am
more Avenue. The building had been a retirement home for the Immaculate Heart Community, which plans to put the building on the market if the money isn’t pledged soon, Vaughan said. If sold to a developer, the building will most likely be demolished and replaced with luxury apartments. (Alexandria House’s two homes are the only single-family houses left on the street.) Green and yellow houses A fire two years ago in the green house left considerable damage, but it has since been renovated and features a new kitchen with Carrara quartz countertops and green Shaker–style cabinetry. (Miracle Mile-based architect William Hefner and his associate Melissa Joan Stinar Dana donated their time and expertise in the renovation.) The shelter is largely privately funded, as government money is funneled into larger organizations. Those bigger organi-
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zations are valuable in helping to combat the homelessness crisis, but they do not target women and children, and they often do not offer counseling or other wrap-around services, and they have a lower rate of long-term success, i.e., their residents often end up back on the streets, Vaughan notes. The 28 women and children at Alexandria House have fled traumatic situations ranging from domestic violence and human trafficking to molestation, homelessness, hunger and poverty. A dog tale When nothing else worked after one six-year-old boy cried
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and screamed every night — he was traumatized from seeing his mother beaten by his father — Vaughan noticed her rescue dog, Jerry, was disturbed by the boy’s behavior, and so she introduced the hound-Lab mix. “He’s concerned about you,” she told the boy. “Can you let him know you’re okay?” she asked. It worked. The little boy’s anger dissipated as he focused on caring for the dog. While there was more work and healing ahead, it was a start in the right direction. The dog had been rescued from death row at a shelter (Please turn to page 19)
CATHOLIC PARISH OF THE MIRACLE MILE COMMUNITY SINCE 1927
CATHEDRAL CHAPEL
of
ST. VIBIANA
923 S. La Brea Ave. Los Angeles, 90036 323-930-5976 cathedralchapel.org
ADVENT & CHRISTMAS 2021 Dec. 8, Immaculate
Dec. 24, Vigil of
Conception, Holy Day: Vigil 6:30pm,
Christmas: 5pm & 11pm
9am & 6:30pm Dec. 12, Our Lady
Dec. 25, Christmas Day: 8am, 10am &
of Guadalupe: Vigil 5pm, 8am,
12pm (No 5pm) Dec. 26, Holy
10am & 12pm Dec. 15, Advent
Family: 8am, 10am & 12pm
Penance Service: 7pm
Dec. 31, New Year's Eve: 8pm
Dec. 21, Simbang Gabi (Filipino
Jan. 1, 2022, New Year's Day: 10am
Advent Mass), 7pm
& 5pm
2021 CHRISTMAS DINNER & DANCE FUNDRAISER Dec. 18, 2021 The Wilshire Country Club $200 per person RSVP by Dec. 11 cathedralchapel.org /2021christmas for details.
Join Us this season for In-Person Worship, Gatherings, and a Classic Tale of the true meaning of Christmas
11:30am
Christmas Day 9:45am Mass will Be live-streamed on our website
www.stbrendanla.org 300 S. Van Ness Ave. (323) 936-4656
Hope Lutheran Church of Hollywood
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Friday, December 24 • 7pm and 11 pm Candlelight Christmas Eve Service with courtyard caroling 6720 Melrose Ave. • 323-938-9135 hopelutheranchurch.net
Ecclesia Gnostica Gnostic Christian Church Sunday Eucharist Eucharist 11:00am 11am Sunday Eucharist 8:30pm 8 pm Lectures • Fridays • 8• pm Wednesday Eucharist Lectures • Fridays 8pm 307
3363 Glendale Boulevard, Atwater, Los Angeles • 323-467-2685 2560 N. Beachwood Dr., Hollywood • 323-467-2685
©LC0421
Bishop Dr. Stephan Hoeller
First Presbyterian Church of Hollywood 11AM Service | 9:15AM Classes 1760 N. Gower St., Hollywood | More Info at fpch.org
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Happy Holidays from the Marino family.
Wishing you a fabulous 2022!
Larchmon
DECEMBER 2021
SECTION ONE
414 N. Larchmont Blvd. (323) 461-7876 healinghandswc.com
Ristorante
’ n o s a Se Gr
6001 Melrose Ave. (323) 466-8812 marinorestaurant.com
We Hope You Have a Happy and Fun Holiday Season!
Wishing you Peace, Love & Joy
Larchmont Animal Clinic from all of us at
316 N. Larchmont Blvd. (323) 463-4889
Barking Lot PAGE ACADEMY The 336 N. Larchmont Blvd. 565 N. Larchmont Blvd. (323) 463-5118
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Dr. Samuel J. Porter, M.D.
David Rhodes
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Larchmont Medical Bldg. Suite 618 (323) 469-7133
215 N. Larchmont Blvd. Cell (323) 246-1266 • Studio (323) 464-1154 rhodesschoolofmusic.com
Santa “Sees” You!
Holiday Greetings and Best Wishes to Everyone from
Miyamoto & Associates CPA 444 N. Larchmont Blvd., Ste. 208
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Happy Holidays
from Leisha, Ingrid, and Marisol
GRACE WONG Electrolysis
Wishing Happy Holidays to All
444 N. Larchmont Blvd., Ste. 205
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Wishing Everyone A Happy Holiday Season From All of Us At
LARCHMONT PEDIATRICS 321 N. Larchmont Blvd., Ste. 1020 • 323-960-8500 larchmontpediatric.com
317 N. Larchmont
Leisha Willis, CPCU 500 N. Larchmont Blvd. • 323-785-4080
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Leipzig, Germany Since 1853
Viva la Musica! Rejoice with Song!
KASIMOFF-BLUTHNER PIANO CO. Oldest Piano Co. in L.A. Helga Kasimoff & Sons 337 N. Larchmont Blvd. (323) 466-7707 kasimoffpianoslosangeles.com
The Shewfelt Family 4270 Wilshire Blvd. (323) 935-3530
nt Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
’s s g n i t ree
SECTION ONE
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Happy Holidays
Larchmont Beauty Center 208 N. Larchmont Blvd. 323.461-0162
LARCHMONT PHYSICAL THERAPY Kathy Whooley & Staff 321 N. Larchmont Blvd. #825 (323) 464-4458
Peace on Earth & Goodwill to All
Happy ays! Holid
HAPPY HOLIDAYS WARM HOLIDAY WISHES from
DIANE PEARSON
ZAVALA ELECTRIC Bernie Zavala • (818) 500-7778
Wilshire Rotary of Los Angeles wilshirerotary.org
at
Ed Lee Jr. CPA 606 N. Larchmont Blvd., Ste. 210 (323) 469-7203
WEST COAST ESCROW 622 N. Larchmont Blvd. 323-461-3080
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Larchmont Village Wine & Cheese 223 N. Larchmont Blvd. (323) 856-8699
Michael & Rob
606 N. Larchmont Blvd. (323) 461-2840
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Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
SECTION ONE
Could this Spanish eatery be your new Soulmate? What I most remember about my college trip to Spain is the food. I gorged on paella and tapas, quickly learning the Spanish words for as many menu items as possible. The pleasures of eating patatas bravas and jamón far outweighed the fright of walking past dictator Francisco Franco’s soldiers pointing machine guns at us at every turn. Years later, when I returned with my family, Franco and his soldiers were gone, but I was disabused of the notion of culinary perfection when my husband complained that the paella here was “different” and my children couldn’t find anything “normal” to order since oxtail stew and salted cod didn’t appeal to them. It didn’t help that I accidentally ordered them big steaming bowls of tripe. Finally, we realized that a Spanish tortilla bore no resemblance to the Mexican staple and instead
was, more or less, a potato and egg frittata (something they lived on for the rest of the trip). I, however, continue to love Spain’s garlicky, paprika-laced cuisine and am amazed at how few options exist in Los Angeles to sample flavors from the Iberian Peninsula. Enter Soulmate, a sprawling Spanish restaurant that landed on Robertson next to Anawalt Lumber last spring and became an instant hit, with soulful dishes, full bar with specialty cocktails, modern décor and absolutely dreadful background music. Luckily, although loud, the music is not at the all-too-common super-charged decibel level that blocks table conversation; we could hear each other without shouting, but it was difficult to understand our server. Of course, speaking through a mask contributes to that. Be advised that the patio is
On the Menu by
Helene Seifer not, strictly speaking, outside. It is really a four-walled room like any other, except a large square hole is cut into the ceiling, open to the sky. Is that enough to assure patrons that outside protocols are being met? Maybe, maybe not. The colorful restaurant, with spring-green banquettes in one space, plush golden U-shaped booths in another, comfortable metal and rattan chairs in another, wood beams, scattered plants and at least one large tree, is beautiful. So is the food. Bursts of flavor Nearly every dish we ordered rewarded with bursts of flavor.
The 48-month aged Iberico jamón on tomato-rubbed bread is a classic. The prized ham makes paying $20 for a piece of bread worth it. $20 paella bites with bigeye tuna tasted more of Italian arancini than the Spanish rice and seafood dish, but was delicious nonetheless, especially with the accompanying chili aioli. Another starter, the $15 chicken croquetas, were light on chicken but loaded with piquancy from the brava sauce. Exhibiting the essence of Spanish cooking, brava sauce exudes garlic, spicy chili and paprika in a silky tomato base. This craveable sauce would be good on almost anything. An eggplant plate was recommended and rightly so. Resembling a fancy specialty sushi roll, the wood-fired eggplant was served sliced, but left in its original shape, accompanied by an earthy eggplant purée and refreshing quinoa salad,
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$18. The least successful dish we tried was the cavatelli with chorizo and green olives, $24. The Spanish sausage didn’t zing, and the olives didn’t add enough brininess to distinguish the limp pasta. The seafood we tried was outstanding. Octopus with potatoes and charred romesco sauce presented beautifully tender tentacles perfectly complemented by the red pepper, almond, bread, garlic and vinegar sauce, $25. This, too, is a sauce I’d gladly slather on everything. Another winner was the $21 garlic wild blue shrimp, served with flatbread to soak up the vibrant garlic chili oil. I firmly believe there is no such thing as too much garlic, and this dish dialed it up to 11. Would any Spanish meal be complete without churros? We couldn’t resist the delicate, crunchy and less-sweetthan-usual ridged doughnut logs. Served, as is traditional, with a rich chocolate dipping sauce, they were a soulful end to a satisfying meal. Soulmate, 631 N. Robertson Blvd., 310-734-7764.
STUDENTS (from left to right) Nathan Million, Miles Paley, Stella Coppola and Anna Paley gather at last year’s book fair.
Chevalier’s, Third Street partner up again for book fair
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By Caroline Tracy Third Street Elementary will, for the second year in a row, partner with Chevalier’s Books for the local public school’s annual book fair. The fair begins on Dec. 6 and will run through Dec. 24. Chevalier’s will donate 20 percent of in-store and online proceeds when customers mention Third Street. The store, at 133 N. Larchmont Blvd., will be featuring wish lists for donations to the school’s library as well as recommendations from the school’s K-5 teachers. “Last year, when we weren’t allowed to be on campus, we moved our annual book fair from inside the school to out in our community … at Chevalier’s,” parent and book fair organizer Laura Dine Million said. “Everyone loved supporting two beloved neighborhood institutions while holiday shopping, so we decided to do it again. We especially appreciated the community’s generous donations to our school library and hope we’ll (Please turn to page 30)
Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
Alexandria House (Continued from page 15) and recommended to Vaughan for his people skills. But “I didn’t know he would be a service dog,” Vaughan smiles. Two-year stays Residents at Alexandria House typically stay two years while they undergo counseling, go back to school, and take literacy and parenting classes. Some enter an entrepreneur program, and, finally, residents are assisted in an apartment search. Many return long after they have left to join in communal dinners, a bustling time at the shelter. Members of The Ebell of Los Angeles and NGA Hancock Park both adopt a day a month to help in preparing and enjoying the feasts. Other local supporters include Wilshire Rotary Club and The Ahmanson Foundation. Entry to the shelter is highly competitive, as some 1,000 callers a month are turned away. “If we had more resources, we’d help more people. It’s tragic really,” said Pamela Hope, Alexandria House director of grants and events. Vaughan acknowledges that the shelter is a small dent in helping the city’s homelessness crisis. Its solution requires a personal moral choice
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combined with changes in public policies, she says. “People don’t start life from the same place,” Vaughan said. Michele Roberts, Alexandria House development director, said that in addition to safety and security, the shelters provide a touchstone to dreams. One resident came in wanting to get a nursing certificate. After a few weeks at Alexandria House, she upped her ambition to becoming an RN. “Knowing she was safe and her children were safe, she was able to dream big,” said Roberts, a Van Ness Avenue resident on staff at Alexandria House for 20 years. Donations So far, private donors have committed $4 million to the Kenmore Capital Campaign, said Hope. The Marilyn and John Wells Family Foundation of those Hancock Park residents has pledged $1 million for the purchase of the building and another $1 million for maintenance over the next 10 years. Other pledges are much smaller. “Any amount is welcome,” said Vaughan. To donate, or for more information about the Kenmore Capital Campaign, visit alexandriahouse.org or contact Pamela Hope at pam@alexandriahouse.org, or call 213381-2649.
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Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
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Finding salvation in a high school parking lot Last month, I went to see a high school production of Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” A friend’s son was in it, and the experience got me thinking about what exactly a play is in this not-quite-postpandemic era. The production was done on a stage erected in the school’s parking lot, with rows of plastic lawn chairs set out for the audience. Response to contact tracing emails was required before arrival, along with masks and proof of vaccination upon entry. This was about as pleasurable as board-
ing a Southwest flight on Thanksgiving weekend, but the annoyance was quickly offset by the excitement of the kids (and their parents) chasing around like Shakespearean chickens without heads, running lines, checking props and attending to last minute run-throughs of stage combat choreography. The performance itself was well done, all actors pretty much knew what they were saying and mostly said it correctly in iambic pentameter (“banished” has three syllables in verse, BTW). Perhaps some
Theater Review by
Louis Fantasia of the lovers were a bit genderfluid (“What does she see in him?” kept running through my head), but what was fascinating was the play’s inevitable momentum — stupid teenagers doing stupid things leads to tragic results — and I got (along with the night-
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time damp seeping into my knees) a real sense of, “Oh my gosh, this all could have been prevented if SOMEONE HAD ONLY LISTENED!!” It was hard to argue with the young, female Prince of Verona’s conclusion that “…never was a story of more woe than this of Juliet and her Romeo.” This was worse than the latest Covid reports, or Glasgow climate statistics. This was personal, which is the essence of tragedy: There, but for the grace of God, go I! Theaters in New York and Los Angeles are running at 75 to 80 percent attendance. Broadway shows, such as the Black comedy “Chicken and Biscuits,” and smaller plays such as “Is This a Room” and “Dana H.” will have closed by the time this issue of the Chronicle comes out. The Metropolitan Opera House was barely 50 percent full for its recent “Meistersinger” premiere, and a recent New York Times story (11/15/21) tells tales of woe from San Francisco arts organizers who fear work-from-home former patrons will be hesitant to return to downtown for their entertainment at night. I suggest theater look to the high school parking lot for its salvation. A play is an event in which changes in relationships occur. Romeo is in love with Rosaline. His friends take him to a party to cheer him up. He dances with Juliet and one thing leads to another, including romance, sex and death. But it is not only the relationships on-stage that must change; we change watching those events. Our relationship to the theatrical event changes (I am glad I went through the annoying pre-show checkin); our relationship to the
actors changes (despite my skepticism, they were pretty good); and our relationship to each other changes. We don’t need, as was the case in the recent London Globe production of “R&J,” suicide prevention phone numbers flashed as super-titles to tell us that there is something wrong in a world where 17-year-olds carry semi-automatic rifles onto Wisconsin streets, and nineyear-olds die in Houston mosh pits. We get it, and we need the live interaction of the theater to help us process it. What — to wrap on a holiday note — is the difference between reading Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” and seeing it adapted on stage (there are multiple productions currently running)? The book is a ghost story; a scary, lonely and depressing one at that. The play, even put on in a junior high gym, let alone parking lot, is communal, corny (admit it) and affirmative — even the worst of us can be redeemed. We leave the theater believing — or at least hoping — this is true. Our lives depend on it! As Tiny Tim says, “God bless us, every one.” We need it!
Advent Festival at All Saints’ The Choir of All Saints’, Beverly Hills will perform “An Advent Festival of Lessons and Carols” on Sun., Dec. 5 at 5 p.m. at the church, 504 N. Camden Dr. in Beverly Hills. Carols and anthems by Palestrina, Ord, Mendelssohn and other composers will be sung by the choir under the direction of Craig Phillips with organist Collin Boothby. Visit allsaintsbh.org.
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DECEMBER 2021
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Revolution sparked in everyday car By Steve Rosenthal After a two-year hiatus, the LA Auto Show opened its doors to the public at the Los Angeles Convention Center in November. According to more than 50,000 attendees surveyed from past LA Auto Shows, over 70 percent indicated they will be looking for a
new or leased car. One in three could not wait to experience, sit in and test drive an electric vehicle (EV) in person. Unique EVs from Vietnam’s VinFast or the totally recyclable Fisker Ocean are sparking a revolution in everyday transportation. Apparently, passing up your local gas station is not
just a dream anymore. In order to speed up the transition, the federal government and many states are offering incentives to make an EV purchase reasonably priced for most new car buyers. The show’s giant screens and spotlights lit up the rotating car platforms featuring spokespeople announcing an EV for every pocketbook. Not surprising was the venerable Nissan Leaf coming in with the lowest sticker price at less than $29,000 with a range of
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By Suzan Filipek Ron Mulligan estimates that, over the years, he has sent hundreds of cartoon captions to “The New Yorker” magazine’s weekly contest, where readers are invited to submit a caption to a cartoon in need of one. He has entered the contest
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again and again, each time with low hopes, he admits, because of the odds; about 5,000 people try their luck every week. As the years flew by, Mulligan’s conviction that he would never prevail only grew, yet he persevered. “I saw the caption contest as a happy creative exercise: rain or shine, good mood or bad, to try and write a joke I thought was funny,” Mulligan said. So, you can imagine his surprise and joy when, after 15 years, he was chosen as a finalist! The cartoon, by Paul Karasik, shows a pirate walking from the sea, dripping wet and wearing an eye patch. He approaches a woman sunbathing on the sand, points a crooked finger to the sky, and — in Mulligan’s words — says: “I’d like to report a mutiny.” While his cartoon came in third in the contest — which is judged by the magazine’s editorial staff and readers — the editorial staff at the Larchmont Chronicle agreed that Mulligan’s was a clear first-place winner. (The second place-winning caption was, “Did you get my bottle?” The winning caption read, “By any chance, are you sitting on a large X?” )
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Writing for cartoons was a natural for the Windsor Square resident. “I’ve always gravitated toward comedy writing in various forms — essays, sketches, TV promos and presentations, and especially song parodies, with which I’m particularly obsessed,” he said. He’s written parodies about culture, politics, friends, pets, the earth, technology, classic plays and novels. “I also managed to weave parodies into my daytime jobs,” he added. Professionally, he wrote for Nike, the NFL and other company trade shows, TV shows and networks (FOX, CBS). While at CBS, he wrote parodies of songs performed by the Broadway casts of “Chicago” and “Jersey Boys” … “and rewrote the opening from ‘Hamilton’ — all to hype the network’s upcoming seasons, and all performed at Carnegie Hall. The ‘Alexander Hamilton’ spoof was introduced by LinManuel Miranda (on tape).” The cartoon, along with Mulligan’s and the second place winner’s captions, was published in the Oct. 13 issue of “The New Yorker.” The winning entry was published in the Nov. 1 issue.
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Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
Local to ride aboard City of Hope’s 2022 Rose Parade float
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HAPPY HOLIDAYS
By Nona Sue Friedman The Tournament of Roses annual Rose Parade is returning to the streets of Pasadena at 8 a.m. on Sat., Jan. 1. This year’s parade theme is “Dream. Believe. Achieve.,” a theme that speaks ROSE PARADE FLOAT to carry Windsor perfectly to Sandy a e’s andy ha ro on ew ear’s ay. Shapiro of Windsor Village. She has been chosen Boulevard. The procession to ride the City of Hope float consists of floats from businamed “Garden of Hopes and nesses, charities, municipaliDreams.” Shapiro is a double ties and more, plus marching cancer survivor as well as a bands and equestrian units Covid survivor. She attributes from across the country. her survival to City of Hope, Although many floats are asits doctors and its care. sembled by professionals, some As for the parade, it was first are still constructed by volunestablished in 1890 to promote teers. Helping with a float is the good weather in Pasadena. a great way to get behind the Now it’s the way millions of scenes of the parade. Visit tourAmericans begin their new year. namentofroses.com to find a The route is five-and-one- volunteer opportunity. half miles down Colorado
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Larchmont Chronicle STAFF
The Original Farmers Market
SONGSTRESS Jan Daley recalls Bob Hope and her father, an Air Force pilot.
HOLIDAY FUN
Jan Daley remembers Bob Hope with Christmas CD Jan Daley is celebrating 50 years since her last USO Christmas tour with Bob Hope. The songstress, who toured with Hope on his USO tours in Vietnam, learned just how much being “Home for Christmas” meant to the G.I.s, and that is one of the reasons for the title of her new CD, being released this month. “Growing up, I never missed Hope’s Christmas specials and dreamed of entertaining the troops, because my father was an Air Force pilot who never made it back from the War,” Daley told us (speaking of World War II). “So, for me, this was a way of supporting the troops by bringing a little ‘home’ to them, and hoping my father was looking down and proud of me. Over the years, I’ve had soldiers tell me how much it meant to them, us being there, in the middle of the Vietnam War! So, this is for them!” Chevalier’s signing Jan will be signing her CD, “Home for Christmas,” at Chevalier’s Books, 133 N. Larchmont Blvd., Fri., Dec. 10 at 5 p.m. If you miss the signing, visit JanDaley.com and she will autograph a CD for you personally.
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Larchmont Chronicle
DECEMBER 2021
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Larchmont Chronicle
STEPHANIE AND JORDAN GERSHOWITZ ready their menorahs for Hanukkah.
Families (Continued from page 1) On Christmas Eve they’ll gather with a few other families from their pandemic bubble for Secret Santa. Their celebration continues to Boxing Day, Dec. 26, when they plan to partake of roast beef and Yorkshire pudding at a British friend’s home. Hope for a holiday bash Christmas begins as a family affair for Suz and Peter Landay, who hope coronavirus vaccination numbers support a return to their Christmas extravaganza, which they threw every year for 25 years until the pandemic hit. After taking 22 Christmas boxes down from the garage
DECEMBER 2021
attic, Suz starts decorating their Irving Blvd. home inside and out the day after Thanksgiving. In the before times, 80 to 100 friends attended. If the Landays determine that it’s safe to proceed with the party at all, they’ll cap the number at 50 fully-vaccinated guests this year. A blended holiday Hanukkah begins the night of November 28 and ends eight nights later, and for many Jewish families, the holiday means grating bushels of potatoes to fry into potato pancakes, or latkes. Stephanie and Jordan Gershowitz are no exception. “I definitely make latkes,” confirms Stephanie Gershowitz, a television production executive. “I’ve perfected my recipe. The secret is to make them in a large cast iron pan.” Traditionally served with applesauce and sour cream, Jordan, a television writer, likes them with lox and cream cheese on the side. Jordan’s beloved grandmother passed away in November, so it’s especially poignant to make the traditional foods she loved, including her famous rugelach (rolled cream cheese dough pastries with raisins, nuts or jam). Although Stephanie was raised Catholic, the Fairfax
GERSHOWITZ Christmas tree includes Hanukkah ornaments.
district couple has decided their son, due in January, will be raised Jewish, but in a religiously-blended home,
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as evidenced by their yearly decorating of a Christmas tree with Jewish stars and dreidel ornaments. They also reach into their red velvet Christmas stockings to retrieve one small gift each night of Hanukkah. Zoom gingerbread contest At the center of Krista Kolegraff’s 2020 Covid Christmas was a gingerbread house contest with her parents and with her six siblings over Zoom. Krista has since moved to a guest house in Hancock Park, a neighborhood she fell in love with because of the architecture and rich history. Her gingerbread house tradition will continue, says the designer, whose line of T-shirts and hoodies is carried by The
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A GINGERBREAD CONTEST is in Krista Kolegraff’s holiday plans again this year.
Broad. She’s looking forward to a less confined holiday this season.
PAGE ACADEMY
CHRIST THE KING
During the month of December, we are excited to celebrate the holidays and make new and heartwarming memories with our families! Some students will be traveling this winter break, while others will be staying local. The school is excited about our upcoming toy drive which student council will be hosting. We have partnered with UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital. Everyone is encouraged to participate by donating new toys from Nov. 29 to Dec. 10. This will surely bring many smiles to the children there. As we reflect on all that we are grateful for, it is important for everyone to support a fundraiser of their choice and give back to the community, especially during the holidays. I wish you all a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!
Last month, November, was the month of Thanksgiving, and here at Christ the King, we were grateful for many things. We are extremely grateful for our school and its activities, and we have learned to share our blessings through many different activities. In addition to this, our first trimester of the school year has also completed! That being said, we are all partaking in various activities in and out of school. As you may know, November is the month of saints. Every class at Christ the King got to learn about different saints and how they have been an inspiration to all of us. In celebration of the saints, on Nov. 1, our students came dressed as saints. During this, we saw a beautiful display of saints and everybody’s costumes. It was a fun, informative event for all of
By Amiely Rodriguez-Lopez 8th Grade
Larchmont Chronicle
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By Chloe Choi 8th Grade
the students while equally being a great learning experience as we are all in progress to sainthood. Christ the King has also held various food drives to help the needy, and fundraise for our school. We had our Krispy Kreme Fundraiser and the Thanksgiving Food Drive! The food drive was meant to help those in need and grant them an ample amount of comfort during Thanksgiving week. We will be working on the Toy Drive and others to help the needy during this holiday giving season. Besides all the activities and sports, it was the end of the first trimester for CKS. It was time for report cards and parent teacher conferences. It was definitely a little stressful for everyone, but we were all confident that everyone was learning and progressing. All students have reflected upon their Student Learning Expectations, and set new goals for themselves for the new trimesters. The installation of Father Juan Ochoa, our parish/school pastor happened on Nov. 20. It was a
IB Program / PYP / MYP / DP World School
great day where the school and church got together to celebrate the great event. We can’t wait for
what’s to come in December for every month is getting better and more successful!
OAKWOOD SCHOOL
From singing, dancing, acting, and reciting poems, students were able to express themselves safely inperson, while also bringing back a tradition that was missed when we were in quarantine. On the topic of performances, the theater department announced “Boeing Boeing” by Marc Camoletti as this year’s high school play and “Into the Woods” by James Lapine, this year’s musical. “Boeing Boeing,” a comedic play involving the antics of bachelors and flight attendants will be showcased from Feb. 17 to Feb. 19 as rehearsals are beginning this month. The show dates for “Into the Woods” will be from May 18 to May 21.
By Scarlett Saldaña 11th Grade
In November, after many months of rehearsing, costume design, and set building, the middle schoolers held their first musical, The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. It was a wonderful musical and it is certain that it was a truly unforgettable experience for the students involved. Then, the day before Thanksgiving Break, Oakwood hosted their annual Thanksgiving Assembly.
MELROSE ELEMENTARY By Bella Cho 5th Grade
At Melrose Math / Science / Technology magnet, we have a program called BEAM (Building Engineers And Mentors). College students from UCLA come to Melrose every week to perform experiments and give lessons to fifth graders. BEAM occurs every Thursday after school for about one hour. I am in BEAM, and I think that it is very educative. You get to do fun experiments and activities that you don’t nor-
IMMACULATE HEART By Kellyn Lanza 11th Grade
Happy Holidays from Immaculate Heart! Students recently returned from Thanksgiving break and are now gearing up for the end of first semester and our cumulative assessment period. Before we leave for Christmas vacation, students will celebrate with the school’s annual Christmas program and our Winter Formal Dance. November was a busy month. Our fall sports teams for volleyball, tennis and cross-country enjoyed a sports banquet together on November 15th to commemorate their amazing seasons! Meanwhile, our winter sports teams for soccer and basketball began their preseason events. For their fall production, the Genesians
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Drama Club performed “Clue” based on the classic 1985 movie and inspired by the board game. Featuring humor and pristine acting, “Clue” was well-received by students and their families in our transformed auditorium for four shows. With November’s closing, many members of the Class of 2022 are relieved to have submitted their early action or early decision applications for college. Additionally, a group of seniors took time off from classes to attend their Kairos retreat. Kairos is offered twice during the school year and allows participants to better connect with themselves as well as each other. With December’s arrival, prospective students can learn more about Immaculate Heart during our Open House weekend. The middle school will open its doors at 1 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 4, and the high school will stage its open house at 1 p.m. on Sun., Dec 5.
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mally get to do in school. You learn from mentors teaching you and not from a textbook. There will also be a Spelling Bee contest in December. Students will first participate in a classroom Spelling Bee. Then two students — the winner and runner-up from each room — will advance to the school-wide Spelling Bee. The winner of the school-wide Spelling Bee will advance to the Los Angles regional Scripps Spelling Bee on March 13 in North Hollywood. It is slowly getting close to Christmas. There will be a threeweek-long winter break from Dec. 20 to Jan. 7. We can’t wait for winter break.
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Special teams are a necessity for success on the gridiron For all those football fans out there, a trivia question: Who was the first punter ever chosen in an NFL draft’s first round? He was a member of the 2014 class inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame. The answer will be revealed at the end of this feature. The special teams’ importance in American football sometimes gets overshadowed. Highlight reels tend to spotlight offense and defense, especially the more glamorous positions like quarterback, receiver, running back and linebacker. Sometimes being a special teams player is not so special. Heroes “Bill Bates is my favorite special teams NFL player,” said Jackson Wright, a senior at Loyola High School. “He didn’t play the exact position I did, but I enjoyed watching his personality and aggression make a difference on the field.” Bates, who played 15 seasons for the Dallas Cowboys, was the first player voted to
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Jim Kalin the Pro-Bowl strictly as a special teams member. Jackson Wright plays several special team positions for the Loyola Cubs, depending on who has the ball, though it’s a bit more complicated than that. Defined Special teams are the thin mortar between blocks of play, a one-and-done that includes punts, kickoffs, extra point attempts, field goals, punt returns, kickoff returns and blocking field goals and extra point attempts. These squads are relegated to specific tasks, and they are more specialized than the offense and defense (“specialized teams” would be a more accurate name for them.) Wright lives for collision,
and the proof is in his preference for the kickoff and punt. On these plays, he’s a gunner, or tracker, which means he can run downfield and clobber blockers and the ball carrier. Gunners need to be fast and athletic and possess the ability to maneuver past or through blockers to reach the opponent’s returner. “You can see his passion through the energy and enthusiasm he displays while playing,” said Assistant Coach Joe Vivo. Wright is not the only special teams player of note. “I work with Carter Ferguson to secure blocks for the kicker on punt, then pursue the returner downfield,” explained Wright. Ferguson is also a senior, and so is Justin Murray, who leads the special teams in tackles. “Loyola excels at all phases of our special teams play,” said Coach Vivo. “This is due to the dedication and preparation of our players and the emphasis that (head) Coach Casani places on it during practice
LOYOLA’S Jackson Wright intercepts pass in 44-20 win over Crespi. Photo by Brody Hannon
and meetings.” The Cubs played Crespi in their first league game on Oct. 15, winning 44-20. In that victory, Jackson Wright intercepted a pass. Loyola ended its regular season 8-3 to become the Angelus League champions for the second year in a row. Playoffs Loyola’s record was good enough to qualify the team for
the CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) playoffs, which culminate in a State Championship Bowl Game in December. Loyola won its Southern Section opening playoff game against Villa Park 35-14. It was an away game, which oddly favored the Cubs. Their record this year was 6-1 when not at home. Loyola hosted the Etiwanda Eagles in the Southern Section quarterfinals Nov. 12, and the home turf was once again a disadvantage. The Cubs lost 28-21, but nearly came back in the fourth quarter to tie it up. “It was a tough loss,” admitted Maite Saralegui Berry, Loyola’s senior director of communications. Indeed. The deeper a team progresses in playoff competition, the worse that seasonending loss hurts. And the answer to the opening question: In 1973, Ray Guy was the 23rd player selected in the NFL draft. He played 14 years for the Raiders.
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Larchmont Charter Hollygrove campus searches for new site By Sondi Toll Sepenuk After 16 years, Larchmont Charter School (LCS), which resides on four separate Los Angeles area campuses, will pull up stakes at one of its original locations, the famed El Centro-to-Vine Hollygrove campus, and look for new school grounds. Uplift Family Services, which leases the Hollygrove space to LCS, is planning to
increase the adolescent and youth services it offers to the community, setting up the departure of LCS in 2023. Currently, the LCS Hollygrove campus accommodates about 350 students transitional kindergarten (TK) to fourth grade. The other LCS campuses include Fairfax in West Hollywood (TK to fourth), Selma Elementary in Hollywood (fifth
Electric cars
battery, costing $3 to $5 for a full charge. You will need to purchase a plug-in charger connected to your 240-watt line — as are your washer and dryer. A wireless charger is also available that you place on the floor of your garage to charge it overnight. Many cars can be charged on the road to the 80 percent level in 30 minutes. Recent technology is bringing that down to just 10 minutes or less. Evidently, the success of Elon Musk’s 2012 Tesla Model S instigated the change to EVs, and, as a consequence, all car manufacturers now plan to roll out an EV or will have one by the end of 2022. Most American, Chinese and German manufacturers have announced they will end production of internal combustion engines by the end of 2035.
(Continued from page 22) features the newly envisioned Ford Mustang for over $50,000 with a 270–300-mile range. The best electric vehicle range is from the new startup Lucid, showcasing a 520-mile range at a pricy $170,500. New EV startups like Mullen, Fisker and VinFast were wellrepresented, but missing from the show were world-famous nameplates like Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Buick, Honda, Acura, VW and Mercedes — conceivably due to COVID constraints or, as some say, lack of interest in auto shows. However, if you are EV-curious, you will find the most recent electrics at your local car dealerships. Charging your EV at home overnight is the least expensive way to charge your EV
to seventh) and LaFayette Park, at 2801 W. Sixth St. (eighth to 12th), for a total of about 1,610 students. “As a TK to 12th school with several sites, we have some flexibility in terms of how we configure, moving forward,” says Executive Director Amy Held. “Ideally, we’d hope to remain in the same general vicinity… and would need a site that can accommodate 200 to 400 students.” Held is hopeful that a local space can be found that features everything a child could need for a solid education. “We would love for our new home to have green space like we have at Hollygrove,” she explains, “along with spacious modern classrooms that are bright and airy, a garden and kitchen, performance, gathering and play spaces for kids, display space for student work and projects, ample parking, and [be] located in a spot that’s accessible for the diverse families we serve and a center of the community.” Larchmont Charter School opened in 2005 with 120 students, born out of the dreams of a determined group of local parents (most residing in the Larchmont community) who wanted to offer children a
constructivist public school that reflected the racial and socio-economic diversity of Los Angeles and the neighborhood. The Hollygrove location, a former orphanage known for its most famous resident, Marilyn Monroe, fit the bill per-
fectly. But now, as Larchmont Charter School looks ahead to spreading its roots in the next decades, it is focused on finding another long-term site, approximately 15,000-30,000 square feet, that will excite the local community and the children who live in it.
Blood drive at St. Brendan Dec. 9 helps to replenish supply “Give the Gift of Life for the Holidays” at a blood drive Thurs., Dec. 9 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St. Brendan School, 238 S. Manhattan Pl. “Each pint of blood can save up to two patients,” said Judy Koempel, Health Committee Chair on the school Parent Teacher Board. “I have witnessed firsthand the life-saving effects of blood on incredibly ill children,” said Koempel, who is also a nurse at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, the sponsor of the event. Koempel was a pediatric intensive care nurse for five years before she became a nurse anesthetist 13 years ago. “Every time I have hung blood for a patient, I have been so grateful for the generous donor. A stranger giving blood to help a critically ill child is an amazingly selfless, giving
act. To me, this is the epitome of the holiday spirit,” Koempel said. St. Brendan School has been hosting a community blood drive with Children’s Hospital Los Angeles since 2018. “The effort is to teach the St. Brendan children to help other children,” said Koempel, the mother of a seventh- and a fifth-grader. “Historically, there is an increased need in hospital blood supplies from Thanksgiving to Christmas, as people become busy with holiday preparations and travel. “This year, the problem is compounded with the pandemic.” To schedule an appointment, visit CHLAdonateblood. org, click the “locate a blood drive” button, and in the “sponsor name” search field, type “St. Brendan School.”
May your holidays be filled with light.
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CENTER FOR EARLY EDUCATION By Ren Lisenbery 5th Grade
At the Center For Early Education, we like to celebrate different cultures and traditions. One of the ways they do this is through affinity groups. There is the Asian American Affinity Group, the Dads’ Committee, the Indian
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American Affinity group, the Latin American Affinity group, LGBTQIA+ Affinity group, the Heritage Family, and the Anti-Racism Interest Group. Each of these groups helps to educate and celebrate the differ-
ent cultures in our CEE community. For example, during Black History Month, the Heritage Family group educates the community about Black history and culture. One of the things they do is put up signs around campus with important figures in Black history, and they hold an event in which everyone can come and learn about Black history more
A legacy of
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with food, speeches, songs, and more. They usually have the best peach cobbler! We also have a Lunar New Year celebration in which we get to learn more about the traditions, including the different animals of each year. We also do activities and watch danc-
es. We also learn about many other important traditions such as Diwali, Dia De Los Muertos, and more. We are so lucky that we learn about the different cultures and history of the different people in our school community.
ST. BRENDAN
ended, our basketball team has started practicing, and we are excited for the new season. We hope to win another championship! Just a month ago, our 8th graders organized a great Halloween parade and performed phenomenally well at their play. At the end of November our Kindergartners celebrated their Thanksgiving play. On Dec. 17, we look forward to singing for our families in our Christmas pageant which will be held outside this year so everyone can be there. Thanks again for tuning in — I hope to see you next month!
By Noah Borges 8th Grade
Good morning or good afternoon or good evening, thanks for tuning into the St. Brendan School section. I am Noah Borges, and I have some exciting news for the month of December! Most recently our football team went undefeated in our division. Unfortunately, we lost in the semi-finals to St. Cyprian. Now that football has
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Happy December! We are back here with fall news at Hollywood Schoolhouse, with me, Sienna. So far in the student council, there’s been lots of talk about toy donations, and spirit days whisperings are on the rise. Inside the science classroom, 6th graders just finished a huge project about the summary of what we learned first trimester. Our teacher, Mr. Andy, had us make iMovies about space. Over-
BUCKLEY SCHOOL By Jasper Gough 12th Grade
N o v e m ber was a full month at Buckley. From Spirit Week (a five-day long competition between the upper school grades) to school drama, The Twelfth Night, sports, and midsemester conferences, we had a full calendar. This month, we are participating in the annual toy drive to benefit the DPSS Toy Loan Advisory Board program that benefits very low-income families. The community can purchase items
Book fair (Continued from page 18) have a nice response again.” The online shopping link, which will support the inperson community event, is forthcoming, and customers should check Chevalier’s Instagram for updates. “We are always happy to support our local schools on book fairs and give back to the community in that way,”
all, this is one of the best projects I have done here at Hollywood Schoolhouse. Other than fun science lessons, 6th graders have started mock interviews. These will help us gain better confidence and prepare us for interviews for secondary school. Sixth graders have also begun walking in our ECE kids every morning. We now get a chance to bond with younger students and we gain new relationships. Lastly, 6th graders are finally getting vaccinated! This has been long overdue, and we are so excited to finally announce that already over half of our grade has either gotten their first dose or are fully vaccinated. on this wish list by searching Amazon’s charity list for AdoptA-Family 2021. Auditions for the spring musical will be held on Dec. 6 and 7. Sophomores were required to take the diagnostic ACT in November, but it is optional for Juniors this month. Seniors, like me, are using all of our available time to work on our college applications and prepare for finals. Our winter break will extend from Dec. 18 to Jan. 3. As with the Thanksgiving break, all students are required to following testing protocols before returning to campus, Good luck to everyone and see you all next year!
said Katie Orphan, manager of Chevalier’s. In an effort to ramp up more sales (and some holiday fun on the Boulevard), Chevalier’s will host extended hours on Dec. 8 from 6 to 8pm. During that same time, both Burger Lounge and Jeni’s Ice Cream will join in the giving spirit, each offering to donate 20 percent of sales when customers mention Third Street Family Dining Night.
Larchmont Chronicle
By Hajoon Koo and Luke Magnusen 4th Grade
By Avery Gough 10th Grade
Prior to Thanksgiving, our athletes concluded the fall sports season. On Nov. 17, each team in upper (Varsity and JV) and lower (purple and white) was honored in a socially distanced recognition ceremony that separated each team into their respective classrooms with their coach. We watched as the team showed slide presentations, posed for photos and received awards, such as Most Valuable Player, Most Inspirational, a Coaches’ Award, and finally an All-Academic award for the person on the team with the highest GPA. The recognition ceremony is a great way to close out the season and appreciate each team member, and it was great to be together one
and even contribute to buying goats. These donations can help local ministries and give help to those in need internationally. Hopefully, we break another record this year so make sure to donate! Before our students go on their Thanksgiving break, as a school, NCA provides a Thanksgiving luncheon for all students and teachers to enjoy. It was a lively event for everyone as elementary students performed dances and we enjoyed Thanksgiving classics. Our girls’ volleyball and boys’ soccer seasons have come to a close! Congratulations to all of our hardworking and talented players as they made it through the season. Don’t lose your excitement as the boys’ basketball season has just started so make sure to go to some games and cheer them on. last time, especially because our seniors and some beloved coaches will not be returning next year. Every school day leading up to Thanksgiving break, our Student Council collected a different item from their respective grade to donate. All the donations will be delivered to the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. On Nov. 16, our Community Day, Marlborough and Project Period Los Angeles teamed up in order to build feminine hygiene kits for women in need. On the 18th, members of each advisory wrote letters to the Marlborough Café M, Custodial, and Security staff who keep the Marlborough campus safe, clean, and fed. Leading up to winter break is the Winter Fest, which is the last day of classes. Winter Fest is a celebration with games, food, and rides to finish off the first semester in a fun way. Winter break begins on Dec. 17 and runs through Jan. 3. Happy holidays!
Be You, Stay True, But Think New! Middle School Open House Saturday, December 4, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. High School Open House Sunday, December 5, 2021 at 1:00 p.m.
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ply come over for a homemade roasted turkey and cranberry sauce and reflect on what we are thankful for: sharing family stories, our beautiful planet, fun news, how the food was prepared. At LCS Hollygrove the students are assigned to bring a type of food or a gift card for Thanksgiving. The food is then given to the ones who need it so they can have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Happy holidays!!
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H a p p y Thanksgiving! NCA enjoyed many festivities for the season including a trip to Knott’s Berry Farm, a canned food drive, and a Thanksgiving service. Our elementary school students had a blast when they went on an educational field trip to Knott’s Berry Farm. They were able to watch live events, learn about California’s early history, and go on some rides. It was an exciting experience for everyone. Every Thanksgiving, NCA hosts a canned food drive for our students to donate cans, non-perishable goods,
A Catholic, Independent, College Preparatory School for Girls Grades 6-12
M A RIA
By Dale Lee 11th Grade
of sales for all book fair related sales, so be sure to mention Third Street if you are shopping at Chevalier’s over the holidays! There will also be a wish list of books to purchase for teachers and the library. Pre-orders will also be made available for the holidays. I wish everyone a wonderful holiday season and an amazing New Year.
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IMMACULATE HEART
LARCHMONT CHARTER
This Thanksgiving, we celebrated something we didn’t realize we missed: being with each other in person as a family. Some of us hadn’t seen our relatives in quite some time, as COVID has come along and changed some of our special moments with our lineage. While Thanksgiving may have historical significance, I think most of us love the holiday because it brings everyone together as a family again. We all have different traditions and backgrounds, but the beauty of Thanksgiving is that we all sim-
Street with a percentage of sales going back to the school. So far, Burger Lounge, Jeni’s Ice Cream, Rocco’s Pizza and Chicas Tacos have participated in Family Dining Night. Our annual book fair begins December 6 through Christmas. This year the book fair will be held with Chevalier’s. Third Street will receive 20 percent
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Hello readers. The holiday season kicked off to a great start at Third Street Elementary! We had a very fun Halloween, which included a spirit day with
grade. This year, Third Street participated in a candy drive for Treats For Troops, a non-profit organization that donates extra Halloween candy to our military troops. Some people in my class brought big bags full of candy for the military. Monthly Family Dining Nights continue to be a success at Third
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lots of fun festivities. Kids, teachers, and school administration wore Halloween themed clothes, classes did candy exchanges, and teachers participated in a game of musical chairs and a mummy wrap where two teachers and aides from each grade wrapped the other teacher in toilet paper. The wrapped teacher had to run across the PE field, and the fastest won extra PE time for their
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