MCP_Sept10

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mid-city press

.com

Vol 1. No. 6

September 2010

Distributed monthly to 25,000 homes in Mid-City, Olympic Park, Country Club Park, Layfayette Square, Victoria Park, Arlington Heights, Angelus Vista, Harvard Heights, Oxford Square, West Adams, South Carthay, PicFair Village and the areas of Carthay Square, Wilshire Vista, Western Heights, Wellington Square and Jefferson Park

Youth and Resource Center There to Help

Residents Optimistic About Mid-Town Crossing By Jamie Morgan Mid-City Contributing Writer

By Karen Jordan Mid-City Press Contributing Writer PICO BLVD.—Nestled on a stretch of Pico Boulevard, between Cochran and Cloverdale avenues, a small community is housed under the roof of the Tom Bradley Youth and FamilySource Center. The ten-year-old facility is home to educational and career development programs which aim to enhance the lives of the 1,700 people the center serves each year, according to director Anthony Nicholas. A native of the area, Nicholas said in these difficult economic times, the work the center does is vital to the community. “Folks need us if nothing else for just a place to come and talk to people and get some information,” he said. “It is so important now because people are out of work, losing their jobs, and homes.” The Bradley Youth and FamilySource’s mission is to empower all members of the family, from the youngest to the oldest, by offering: afterschool programs; Project SAVE, a gang intervention and job training program; resume training, and VITA, a free income tax assistance program. The afterschool offerings for students consist of tutoring and computer classes. The goal is to help kids stay sharp in the classroom even in the summer when school is out, Nicholas said. During the school year, students can also participate in the “Black Data Processing Association,” a program in which young students are taught computer skills and have the opportunity to comsee YOUTH CENTER page 6

Meet the “twins” from Lucy Florence, 3

JUMPING FOR JOY: With the start of a new school just around the corner, Ashley Ramirez, 4; Anthony Gomez, 8; Lewis Ramirez, 9 and Nathan enjoy the last strains of a summer day in Angelus Vista.

National Night Out

Photo: Allison C. Ferraro

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS—About 100 locals walked Pico Boulevard from Crenshaw to West boulevards for National Night Out, Aug. 3rd. Neighbors in communities nationwide were encourage to walk the streets that evening to show solidarity in numbers against crime. Here, Gabriela DeJesus, 37, of Queen Anne Park, shows her support for the Los Angeles Police Dept.

Angelus-Rosedale Cemetery Walking Tour, 3

Real Estate Sales, 4

El Chollo Reviewed, 5

With a $19.3 million city grant, the hustle and bustle at Midtown Crossing has resumed. For the past two years most of the 19-acre development has sat as a vacant hole next to a completed portion, which includes a Wells Fargo, Panda Express, Foot Locker, and a Metro bus station. It also includes a Starbucks, a chain that has come to symbolize more than just coffee and free Wi-Fi. In some communities, Starbucks is a symbol of change that can be either good, bad or both, depending on who you ask. In Mid-City, the response to developer CIM Group beginning the second phase of this project is optimistic. Today, what resembles an empty landfill will tomorrow be replaced with a Lowes Home Improvement Store and 310,000-square-feet of retail space. Residents see it as more local options for dining and shopping, while businesses seek to benefit from the consumer traffic the development will pull into the area. Even construction industry suppliers in direct competition with the soon to be Lowes see the new development as a benefit. “It will bring more people into the area, and it will affect every business,” said Rene Esrail, owner of R.E. Wholesale Lighting at 4829 W. Pico Blvd. Esrail’s business, a block away and across the street from Midtown Crossing, has been around for eight years but has slowed along with the construction industry. “[The Lowes] will bring in see CROSSING page 2

Korean Festival, 6

mid-city press

[letter from the publisher] Olympic Boulevard and Normandie Avenue—in the cultural center of Koreatown— now dons two large plaques in honor of Olympian and historic figure Dr. Sammy Lee. Aug. 5th has also been declared “Dr. Sammy Lee Day,” in the city of Los Angeles. The Dr. Sammy Lee Square will celebrate the no-

nagenerian’s stellar Olympic accomplishments. In addition to coaching diving star Greg Louganis to two Olympic golds, Lee is the first American of Asian descent to win an Olympic gold medal. He is also the first person of color to win a medal in diving and the first man to win back-toback gold medals in Olympic platform diving.

Pick up the Mid-City Press at these locations: Atomic Café 5001 W. Washington Blvd. CJ’s Café 5501 W. Pico Blvd. Close Up Barber Shop 5007 W. Pico Blvd. Maria’s Café 4645 Venice Blvd. Olson’s Deli and Gift Shop 5660 W. Pico Blvd. Pasquale’s Café and Pizza 5616 San Vicente Blvd. Sacred Lounge 1363 S. Redondo Blvd. Sky’s Tacos 5408 W. Pico Blvd.

GENER AL OFFICE A SSISTANTS Griffin Oliver Cohen Charles H. Cohen

For editorial consideration, send story ideas to: allisonferraro@ midcitypress.com For advertising inquiries, call: (323) 667-1329

PUBLISHER /EDITOR Allison C. Ferraro, M.A.

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Washington Irving Library 4117 W. Washington Blvd.

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Splendid Cleaners 1226 S. Cochran Ave.

FOUNDED 2010 Delivered the last Thursday of the month to 25,000 homes and businesses in the Mid-City neighorhoods of: Mid-City, Olympic Park, Country Club Park, Layfayette Square, Victoria Park, Arlington Heights, Harvard Heights, Oxford Square, West Adams, Angelus Vista and the areas of Carthay Square and Wilshire Vista.

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The Mid-City Press is professionally delivered the last Thursday of each month (the first Thursday in April, July and September) in recyclable plastic bags between Normandie Avenue and La Cienega Boulevard and Olympic and Adams boulevards.

If you’ve missed your paper, call (323) 667-1329. crossing from page 1

a little more competition, but I’m not afraid because it will drive more traffic,” he said. Mid-City business owners and nearby residents, George and Felicia Shamu, run The Vitality Furniture Group Inc., a custom-designed furniture business at 5023 W. Pico Blvd. George said having a Lowes down the street is more convenient than traveling to the Home Depot at Slauson and Western avenues where his wife picks up materials needed for her designs. Nadeerah Faquir, owner of nearby I “Heart” Fashion boutique sees the center as good for business and pleasure. “It should bring a lot more people to stop in the area,” she said. “But also there are no restaurants or fine dining options in this area.” Liken Gebrehana, 34, a nurse and resident who frequents the Midtown Crossing Starbucks, is also looking forward to more restaurants in the area because according to him “there is nowhere else to go.” Their hopes reflect the vision set out by Los Angeles City Councilmember Herb Wesson. “This is a huge victory for the residents of our community,” said Councilmember Wesson in a press release. “The project will become a catalyst for the revitalization of the surrounding neighborhoods.” In an area known for its Page 2

plethora of auto repair shops, his office expects this development to generate more than 800 new jobs and $2.3 million in tax revenue. But while the area in general will benefit, there are businesses in the area that could potentially fail while Midtown Crossing succeeds. Robert Bridges, assistant professor of clinical finance and business economics at USC Marshall School of Business, is a licensed architect and consultant specializing in real estate feasibility and economic forecasting. When asked about the effects of large commercial developments moving into areas like Mid-City, he says the results are generally good for most and bad for some. “It’s fair to say there will be casualties,” Bridges said. “But that kind of change or regeneration always brings some kind of displacement. I don’t want to advocate one position or another, but recognize that there are positives and there are negatives. And, generally speaking, bringing in a large retailer is a commitment on the part of a well capitalized community, which is a positive sign.” However he said that mom and pop stores, who may soon face direct competition from future retailers at Midtown Crossing, may feel some heat. “Mom and Pops who don’t have the same competitive advantages might feel pressure from a pricing standpoint,” he said. He also mentioned that

similarly priced stores can lose customers to bigger stores because of name recognition. Juana Leon, 34, has already seen this type of competition between the Japanese restaurant she works at, Tawada, and the Panda Express at Mid-Town. She said the larger portions and cheaper prices at Panda Express appeal to the large families in the area. However, she also noted that her boss is looking forward to the lunch-seeking employees the new center will bring. “Some of the customers when they come here for the first time, they say things like ‘I didn’t know you were here. I always pass by and I never see it,’” she said. But that nearsighted vision isn’t a problem for Leon. She was a Tawada patron before becoming its employee. She has a list of local favorites like CJ’s Coffee at 5501 W. Pico Blvd., and Fashion Fever on Pico Boulevard and Norton Avenue. She isn’t biased though; she also enjoys a cup of Starbucks’ coffee. She’s the embodiment of a loyal local who also hopes to benefit from big chains. It’s a relationship Bridges said is happening in many American cities. “You have a kind of fight between the older world which is romantic and quaint and the newer world which is more efficient and has the potential to provide a higher standard of living, but certainly at some cost,” he said.

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September 2010

mid-city press

Lucy Florence Cultural Center By Shirley Hawkins, Mid-City Contributing Writer

Guess which of the twins is which?

Whether you have a desire to gaze at colorful artwork by local artists, book an attractive venue for an upcoming meeting, or are searching for eye catching clothing or jewelry, look no further than the Lucy Florence Cultural Center in Los Angeles. Located in a bright mintgreen building on the corner of 43rd Street and Degnan Boulevard, there’s a welcoming ambience at the café/art space and meeting place that invites a visitor to browse, order a steaming cup of coffee and chat with its amiable owners, Ron and Richard Harris. Don’t worry if you can’t tell the two brothers apart. They’re twins—and probably the hardest working twins in Crenshaw’s Leimert Park district. Richard and Ron are on duty seven days a week at Lucy Florence, which has blossomed into a bustling cultural hub that attracts artists, community residents, and civic leaders. The bustling venue also is a popular site for bridal showers, birthdays, repasts and political meetings. And besides cake, coffee and tea, the brothers also offer catering for special events. Things are going so well, in fact, that Lucy Florence recently expanded with a second location on Pico Boulevard in the Mid-City area. As for the name? “We named the café Lucy Florence after our mother,” said Ron. “She loved beautiful things and she also taught us how to cook.” Talented fashion gurus and gifted dancers, the Atlanta, Georgia born and bred brothers relocated to Los Angeles in 1996. It wasn’t long before their talent was noticed and Fuller Gordy, vice president of corporate affairs at Motown Records, took them under his wing. The fleet footed brothers were soon teaching choreography to such popular groups as DeBarge and Hi Energy. While at Motown, the brothers opened up a café on Santa Monica Blvd. and shared their Southern sense of style and down home cooking with Angelenos. Soon celebrities were flocking to the venue to taste the brothers’ delectable homemade sweet potato pie, including Tina Marie, the Black Eyed Peas, Macy Gray, Isaiah Washington and Tyra Banks. September 2010

But it wasn’t long before the brothers discovered Leimert Park, the cultural and artistic hub of black Los Angeles and moved there in 1999. “The Leimert Park area reminded us of Atlanta,” said Richard. “We immediately saw there was a lot of energy and beauty here.” Carrying on the legacy and spirit of the area’s early stakeholders such as Richard Fulton, owner of the popular Fifth Street Dick’s who passed away several years ago and actress Marla Gibbs, was important to the brothers. “We witnessed the demolition of several structures that once belonged to Marla where she showcased plays and young artists, and it really saddened us. We wanted to help carry on the torch for other artists in Leimert Park,” the brothers reflected. And passing on the torch is something the brothers practice daily. There are more than a half dozen businesses operating under the umbrella of Lucy Florence, including the Florence Gallery, which displays art work by local artists; Simply Greta Clothing, Chicago Stepping classes taught by Carlton Miller, Reiki healing classes conducted by Rhonda Kuykendall, a vocal workshop taught by singer Brenda Lee Eager, lifestyle development consultations with Gail Hawkins and aesthetician sessions with La Donna White. Lucy Florence also houses the 52-seat 4305 Village Theatre, where productions such as “Bananas,”—the long running tribute to Josephine Baker and portrayed by actress Sloan Robinson—enthralls attendees. Coming Sept. 11th, actor David Williams will deliver a tribute to Sammy Davis, Jr. And the brothers’ keen fashion sense, inherited from their fashion conscious father as children, has also not gone unnoticed. Their longtime friend, Tyra Banks, creator of Next Top Model, often features the brothers on her show. The brothers dispense advice to aspiring young models such as how to “twirl” gracefully down the fashion runway. But their first love will always be Lucy Florence. “The ancestors and spirits here are constant, and Lucy Florence is not a home to one, but to all,” said Ron. The Lucy Florence Cultural Center, 3351 W. 43rd Street. Open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mon.-Sun. (323) 2931356. The Lucy Florence Coffeehouse is located at 5671 W. Pico Blvd. and is open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mon.-Sat.

www.midcitypress.com

Angelus Rosedale’s Living History Tour Features Pioneering Women “Real Gone Gal,” and the first African American female board member of the Musicians Union.

Caroline Severance, Clara Burdette, Dora Haynes—Three important Suffragettes and social reformers who played a key role in women getting the vote in California.

The Angelus Rosedale Cemetery will present a 3-hour Living History Walking Tour, Sat. Sept. 25th. Docent led tours will depart every 25 minutes from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The yearly event, sponsored by the West Adams Heritage Assoc. (WAHA), will feature featuring actor portrayals, graveside, of some of the individuals buried at the cemetery. This year, on the eve of the 100th anniversary of Women’s Suffrage, WAHA will honor social reformers, headliners, and pioneering females who were first in their fields. This year’s tour will include “meeting” these historic women: • Hattie McDaniel: First African American to win an Oscar. • Caroline Severance, Clara Burdette and Dora Fellows Haynes (founder of the League of Women Voters): three important Suffragettes

Tickets are by advance reservation only, $25 until Sept. 15th. $30 thereafter. Children under 10 are free. To order tickets in advance, please send a check made payable to “WAHA” to: WAHA Living History Tour, 2280 West 21st St. Los Angeles, CA 90018.

and social reformers who played a key role in women getting the vote in California. • Minne Roswell Langstadter: in 1878, at age 15-16, the first female newspaper reporter (or “front page gal”) in Chicago. • Anna Mae Wong: Pioneering AsianAmerican actress. • Georgia Ann Hills Robinson: First black female police officer in Los Angeles and possibly the nation (1916); founder of Hattie Mcdaniel—The first African American to the Sojourner Truth win an Oscar, for her role in Gone with the Wind Home Shelter. The Angelus Rosedale • Clara Baldwin Stocker: Cemetery, one of the city’s Heiress to “Lucky” Baldoldest, most historically win’s fortune; nicknamed significant cemeteries, was the “Diamond Queen”; one founded in 1884, and is now of the few (if not the only) home to many generations of women to name a street for Los Angeles’s early citizens, herself in Los Angeles. representing every race, faith, • Nellie Lutcher: Jazz pianist/ and creed. vocalist whose bluesy swing The cemetery is located at riffs won her fame as the 1831 W. Washington Blvd.

HELP US PLAN LA’S ENERGY FUTURE! 2010 Draft Power Integrated Resource Plan

Public Workshops East Valley

Saturday, September 11 10 a.m. – Noon Los Angeles Mission College 13356 Eldrige Avenue, Sylmar 91342

West L.A.

Monday, September 13 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Stephen S. Wise Temple 15500 Stephen S. Wise Drive, Los Angeles 90077

South L.A.

Tuesday, September 14 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. California African American Museum – Exposition Park 600 State Drive, Los Angeles, 90037

East L.A.

Wednesday, September 15 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. California State University – King Hall 5151 State University Drive, Los Angeles 90032-8778

Harbor

Monday, September 20 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Crowne Plaza Los Angeles Harbor 601 South Palos Verdes Street, San Pedro 90731

West Valley

Wednesday, September 22 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Holiday Inn – Warner Center 21101 Ventura Boulevard Woodland Hills, 91364

For more information and to register, please visit www.LaPowerPlan.org As a covered entity under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and, upon request, will provide reasonable accommodation to ensure equal access to its programs, service and activities. To ensure availability, such requests should be made 72 hours in advance by calling (213) 367-1361, TDD: 1 (800) 432-7397.

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mid-city press

Buckling Sidewalks Weighed vs. Saving Trees By Caitlin M. Foyt Press Contributing Writer Extreme lifting and crumbling of Mid-City Neighborhood sidewalks has made some walkways dangerous for pedestrians, but local residents fear that repairs may endanger or kill the trees responsible. Fourteen representatives from the area of Wellington Square attended last month’s Mid-City Neighborhood Council (MINC) meeting to speak on behalf of the trees that line sidewalks along Washington Blvd., Virginia Rd., Wellington Rd. and Victoria Ave. “People have been falling,” said Michael Sonntag, a representative from Region Three. “The sidewalks, something definitely needs to be done about them, and yet, I think that most of the people that I talk to would love to find a way to do that that doesn’t endanger the trees.” Vince Albrecht, also of Wellington Square, has conducted research on the trees and said they are a specific kind that qualifies for historic status. “There’s a belief that these are “Heritage Trees” because of their length of time—they’ve been there probably since the turn of the century, 1900. Ten of the 13 trees are at least three feet in diameter, which supposedly is heritage-warranted and if they’re Heritage Trees, they’re protected from being cut down,” he said. Months ago, Los Angeles city officials looked at some of the problem sidewalks and discovered that there weren’t many repair options available to them other than removing the trees. The Urban Forestry Division of Street Services for the

[real estate]

[ SELECT HOME SALES SEPTEMBER 2010 ] 90018 Single Family Residences 2320 2722 2203 2109 3723 1733 2626 3309

S LA SALLE AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $405,000 HALLDALE AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 390,000 W 25TH ST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 350,000 W 29TH PL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320,000 WESTSIDE AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 275,000 W 37TH PL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 245,000 HALLDALE AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216,000 W 27TH ST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180,000

90019 Condominimums 962 S GRAMERCY DR 202 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $345,000 949 S MANHATTAN PL 203 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 310,000

90019 Single Family Residences 1815 1776 1647 1579 1439 1431 1430 1331

S ORANGE GROVE AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $725,000 S STANLEY AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 655,000 ARLINGTON AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 654,000 S VICTORIA AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 605,000 S BURNSIDE AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 600,000 S ORANGE GROVE AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 569,000 HAUSER BLVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 564,000 S RIDGELEY DR . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 535,000

90034 Condominimums 3743 S CANFIELD AVE 302 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $492,000

90034 Single Family Homes 1905 S BEDFORD ST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $900,000 10909 CHARNOCK RD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 599,000 10729 PALMS BLVD . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 590,000 3435 MILITARY AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 584,000 5853 DAVID AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 560,000 3310 S DURANGO AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 475,000

90035 Condominimums 853

S LE DOUX RD 101 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $560,000

1112 S BEDFORD DR 103 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 526,000 839

S HOLT AVE 102 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 468,000

8646 W OLYMPIC BLVD 302 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 399,000

90035 Single Family Homes 1718 S CANFIELD AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,855,000

The Craftsman Style By Nick Mercado Mid-City Press Real Estate Writer M id- C it y is diverse in so many ways. One of the first areas developed in Los Angeles, it boasts some of the finest architectural styles in the city. Let’s focus on the Craftsman style and how it originated. The Craftsman movement, as it is known, began in the 1840s in the United Kingdom. While architect Agustus Pugin, writer John Ruskin and designer/artist William Morris can all be credited as the founders of the movement, it was William Morris who had the most significant impact. Morris sought to bring simplicity to a lifestyle that was being influenced by the Industrial Revolution and the Victorian era itself. The Victorian style was ornate and formal. The corresponding furnishings were produced in factories by machines. Morris ventured to shift the design standards of the day by utilizing a Gothic theme. This theme required work that could not be done by machine and had to be handcrafted. He was convinced that by employing craftsmen who took pride in their work and enjoyed working with their hands he would secure the best quality. Morris also felt that this style would help to introduce the populace to having nature in the home by reflecting it in the design of the home and furnishings. As time progressed, he surrounded himself with craftsmen who did finish work and created furniture that matched his philosophy. He sought to familiarize the English with his philosophy

and ideas so that the Craftsman movement would reach the common people and positively affect their lifestyle and be commonplace for the day. This hope extended to seeing this movement stretch across Europe. Unfortunately, the cost of handcrafted materials was more than what the average citizen could afford and his work was maintained and supported only by the wealthy. By the 1880s, however, the popularity of Morris’ designs had reached the United States and caught the eye of Frank Lloyd Wright who incorporated these ideals into his designs. Here on the West Coast, the Craftsman homes we see appealed very much to the middle class and bungalows were constructed with Morris’ philosophy of simplicity. Styles from England, Japan, the Netherlands and othe parts of Europe were integrated into the designs of the homes we still see today. Furniture with straight lines inlayed with wood and finished in leather would compliment the simple interiors and became known as the Mission style. While the complexity of modern living and technological advances saw the advent of mass production, the Craftsman movement has seen a renewed popularity. Many folks these days are looking to purchase original homes and refurbish them. The appreciation of Morris’ original ideas has come full circle. I’m sure he’d be pleased to know that his design aesthetic is still vibrant today and sought after by everyday families.

8819 HORNER ST . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 827,000 1136 S LA JOLLA AVE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 824,000 Sales are from the previous month. Source: Great American Real Estate Solutions

John Dickey Does It Again! Another JUST LISTED in Mid-City!

see SIDEWALKS page 7

Great Bread & Butter 4-Plex within walking distance to the Washington Blvd. redevelopment. First time on the market in 24 years. Earthquake retrofitted & some systems updated. All large 1+1 with laundry inside units plus 1 car garage. Shared Backyard. 1 unit vacant... live in one, collect rent on others. Try FHA with only 3.5% down... Make Offer!!! $485,000 Coldwell Banker – Hancock Park South Office 119 N. Larchmont Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90004

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(323) 298-SOLD or 298-7653 cell (323) 860-4230 office jdickey@coldwellbanker.com

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Page 4

www.midcitypress.com

September 2010

mid-city press [herb wesson councilmember]

Bicycle Summit Brings Some Good News By Los Angeles City Councilmember Herb Wesson In my column last month, I discussed how Mayor Villaraigosa’s recent bicycling accident was cause to remind everyone about the importance of bicycle safety. Since that time, the Mayor has taken the initiative in sponsoring a “Bicycle Summit,” which allowed stakeholders to share experiences and opinions regarding our bicycling future. To my knowledge, this was the first of its kind.

200 miles per year. To help get us closer to the goal, $3.2 million has been designated in the 2011 fiscal year budget, and the Mayor indicated that the city will fund the new bike lanes using up to $19 million in Measure R funds. Clearly, the Mayor understands that we can, and must do better in moving forward on this issue. Also highlighted at the summit was the LAPD’s new

The plan calls for a goal of as much as 1,633 miles of bike lanes, including paths and routes throughout the city by the year 2015. At present we only have 372 miles dedicated to bicycling. The summit also provided an opportunity for those in attendance to comment on the LA’s bicycling plan that is currently being updated. The plan calls for a goal of as much as 1,633 miles of bike lanes, including paths and routes throughout the city by the year 2015. At present we only have 372 miles dedicated to bicycling. So we will need to grow our bike lanes by about

policy of assigning traffic officers to investigate disputes between residents on bike and those driving cars. They are also citing drivers who refuse to respect the rights of those on bikes. The information that came out of the summit is great news for our community, where our residents deserve an opportunity to safely enjoy a bike ride without risking their lives.

Local Bakery Remains Open

[restaurant review]

A Classic: El Cholo

By Caitlin M. Foyt Mid-City Press Contributing Writer WASHINGTON BLVD.—La Brea Bakery recently moved out of its 5500 Washington Blvd. location. The distribution facility, located near the corner of Fairfax and the 10 freeway, filled pastry and bread orders for retail outlets from Santa Barbara to San Diego. The site was no longer large enough to accommodate the needs of the company, according to Katie Brucker of marketing communications for La Brea Bakery. “We’ve kind of grown out of that space,” Brucker said. “To better serve our customers and to manage our routes more efficiently, we’ve moved into a bigger distribution space downtown.” Brucker said she doesn’t know what will occupy the now-vacant space. Locally founded in 1989, La Brea Bakery has become known internationally for its gourmet artisan breads. The company still maintains its original flagship store on La Brea Avenue between 6th Street and Wilshire Blvd.

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By Anna Erickson, Mid-City Press Restaurant Critic WESTERN AVE.— Established in 1923, El Cholo is a lively piece of Los Angeles history. A favorite of the movie stars of the day, one of El Cholo’s claims to fame is that Carmen Rocha invented nachos here in 1959 and started an entire appetizer revolution. Not to miss, the guacamole made tableside with personalized ingredients is simply perfection. You dictate the

this is my go-to option. Another great offering is the Petite Filet Escabeche Tacos with a smoky rub flavoring the beef that gives a unique

Not to miss, the guacamole made tableside with personalized ingredients is simply perfection. You dictate the inclusion of garlic, onion and peppers and end up with a big bowl of heaven every time. inclusion of garlic, onion and peppers and end up with a big bowl of heaven every time. Nightly specials come with beans and rice that are so good, I’m tempted to eat them first while my dinner gets cold. No kidding, these are special beans and rice indeed. The Fish Taco Special is three soft corn tortillas enveloping lightly crispy fish with cabbage, tangy mayo sauce, pico de gallo and a bit of finely shredded cheese. Oh Baja! Shrimp with Green Corn Tamales are seasonal, served with queso fresco and fresh salsa. They sell out regularly, so if your server offers, them,

balance to the tang of the vinegar escabeche marinade. The meat is so tender; it melts in your mouth. Annie’s Enchilada is a surprise. Mixed garden veggies, jack cheese, sweet corn salsa and crushed pecans. Sweet and savory— this is a knockout for brunch! You can tell by the traffic turning into their parking lots on Western that classic restaurants still rule. El Cholo 1121 S Western Ave Los Angeles, CA 90006 (323) 734-2773 www.elcholo.com

NEW WATERING DAYS

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Fillet of Sole ..........................................................$7.95 served with choice of potato, soup or salad and vegetable

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September 2010

www.midcitypress.com

If you have an odd-numbered address, your watering days are Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

If you have an even-numbered address, your watering days are Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.

Sprinkler use is allowed before 9:00 a.m. and after 4:00 p.m. only, for up to 8 minutes per station per day. Customers with water-conserving nozzles (rotors and multi-stream rotary heads) are allowed two 15-minute cycles each watering day. For more information and the complete list of the prohibited uses of water, visit www.ladwp.com or call 1-800-DIAL DWP.

Page 5

mid-city press [ OUT AND ABOUT: september 2010 ] ART Andell Family Sundays: Sports & Art As part of LACMA’s family-friendly Sunday programming, the museum welcomes visitors to make art and explore the museum. This month explores connections between art and sports and features workshops with Lisa Oxley, Josh Peters, Joe Pelayo and Beatriz Jaramillo. Admission is free. Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Sun., Sept. 6th, 12th, 19th, 26th, 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Miracle Mile. Information: (323) 857-6000; www. lacma.org. Debating Through the Arts This interactive event, the second in a series hosted by St. Elmo Village, will showcase as many as 24 performance artists and invite the audience to participate. There will be debates on cultural and artistic issues, a central gathering in the courtyard, smaller breakout discussions, a dinner break, and a DJ spinning music. St. Elmo Village, Sun., Sept. 26th, 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. 4830 St. Elmo Drive, Mid-City. Information: (323) 931-3409; www. stelmovillage.org.

BOOKS Doug Glanville Former Major League Baseball player and occasional New York Times columnist Doug Glanville will sign and discuss his memoir, The Game From Where I Stand, an insightful look inside the world of professional baseball. Eso Won Bookstore, Tues., Sept. 7th, 7 p.m.-9 p.m. 4331 Degnan Blvd., Leimert Park. Information: (323) 290-1048. www. esowonbookstore.com.

CULTURE CAAM Rollin’ at World on Wheels The California African American Museum hosts a membership drive on wheels at the popular roller rink World on Wheels. The festivities include trivia, raffles and a skatedancing contest. Admission is $10; skate rental is $2. World on Wheels, Thurs., Sept. 16th, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. 4645 Venice Blvd., Mid-City.

present Voices: A Legacy to Remember. The play highlights important moments in black history and was nominated for an NAACP Image Award. Tickets are $30.50-$40.50.

Wilshire Ebell Theatre, Fri., Sept. 24th, and Sat., Sept. 25th, 8 p.m., and Sun., Sept. 26th, 3 p.m. 4401 W. 8th St., Mid-Wilshire. Information: (323) 868-4289; www.voiceslegacy.com.

The 37th annual Los Angeles Korean Festival takes place this month. Information: (213) 744-7432; www. caamuseum.org. Los Angeles Korean Festival This long-running multicultural festival seeks to introduce Korean culture to the community, to promote racial harmony in Los Angeles and to celebrate the harvest moon. There will be food, performances, a parade and more. Seoul International Park, Thurs., Sept. 30th to Sun., Oct. 3rd. 3250 San Marino St., Koreatown. Information: (213) 487-9696; www. lakoreanfestival.com. Leimert Park Village African Art & Music Festival Now in its second year, this annual art and music festival offers live music and entertainment (jazz, reggae, spoken word, dance), an auction, a fashion show, children’s activities, an art-and-craft show, a food court, and more. Vision Theatre back lot, Sat., Sept. 4th, to Mon., Sept. 6th, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. 3341 W. 43rd Place, Leimert Park. Information: (323) 600-3741; leimertparkfestival.blogspot.com.

FARMERS MARKETS L.A. Adams/Vermont Farmers Market This neighborhood farmers market features a seasonal selection of fruits, vegetables, local specialties and organic food. St. Agnes Catholic Church, Wed., Sept. 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th, 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. 1432 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles. Information: (323) 777-1755; www. farmernet.com. Wellington Square Farmers Market Opened in March, this new farmers

How do we thrive as we age? How can we avoid memory loss and maintain brain health?

market drew an estimated 300400 attendees on its first Sunday. In keeping with Seventh-day Adventist practices, the market’s offerings are all vegetarian. They include produce, baked goods, prepared food and flowers. Smyrna Seventh-day Adventist Church, Sun., Sept. 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 4394 W. Washington Blvd., West Adams. Information: (323) 373-0961; www. wellingtonsquarefarmersmarket. com. Wilshire Center Farmers Market This weekly farmers market features fresh, locally grown produce as well as tasty prepared foods, baked goods and crafts. Wilshire Vermont Station Courtyard, Fri., Sept. 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. 3182 Wilshire Blvd., Koreatown. Information: (213) 487-7003; www. wilshirecenter.com.

MUSIC Dirty Projectors Brooklyn-based indie darlings the Dirty Projectors bring their experimental rock to the Wiltern. Tickets are $28.50-$35.25. The Wiltern, Fri., Sept. 24th, 8 p.m. 3790 Wilshire Blvd., Koreatown. Information: (213) 388-1400; www. wiltern.com. Menomena On the heels of their fourth album, Mines, the post-rock trio Menomena will hypnotize the Miracle Mile with their intricate compositions. Tickets are $20. The El Rey, Thurs., Sept. 16th, 8 p.m. 5515 Wilshire Blvd., Miracle Mile. Information: (323) 936-6400; www. theelrey.com.

THEATER ‘Voices’ Writer-director Maurice Kitchen and Media Menagerie Productions

The Dirty Projectors play the Wiltern this month.

youth center from page 1

pete for college scholarships. There is also a new Handy Workers program which assists elder residents and the handicapped who are in need of minor home repairs which are all done for free. English as a Second Language, or ESL, classes are also offered year round. The sessions, similar to all of the programs at the center, are available to any resident of Los Angeles County who can provide proof of income. The center only serves lower income individuals and families. The ESL classes have made a world of difference to many of its students. “When I come here, I spoke nothing and wrote nothing,” said Martha Orellana. “[Now] when I listen in the street to someone speaking, I can understand.” For some students, taking the ESL classes has had a direct influence on their home life. “It helps with communication,” said Maria Elena, a native of Columbia. “My husband only speaks English. It helps a lot.” Offering a personal touch to those who come through its

doors makes the center unique compared to others in Los Angeles County, said Andrea Solomon, the center’s assistant director. To better meet the needs of those it serves, the center will soon offer a Food Stamp program which will enable residents to receive training in their own neighborhood without having to travel downtown. While community organizations, including the Hollywood Branch of the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) and the Mid-City Chamber of Commerce regularly meet at the center, serving the people who walk through its doors everyday remains at the core of its mission. It is all about improving lives one person at a time. “The satisfaction of seeing a child smile because you helped them score 100 percent on a spelling test, there’s nothing like it,” Nicholas said. “There’s nothing in the world like helping somebody.” For information: The Tom Bradley Youth & Family Source Center 5213 W. Pico Blvd. (323) 692-0669

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www.midcitypress.com

September 2010

mid-city press

Smyrna Seventh-day Adventist WASHINGTON BLVD.—One of the newest certified farmers’ markets in Los Angeles takes place on Sundays in a church parking lot on Washington Boulevard. Though it sells local produce and prepared foods, it is a little different from most other markets in the city: the goods for sale are dictated by the church’s dietary rules. Smyrna Seventh-day Adventist Church is one of the largest Christian denominations worldwide, but some of their beliefs differ a bit from the traditional canon. For instance, the Adventist sabbath falls on Saturday, and commu-

nion is only done four times a year, and involves foot-washing to remember Jesus’ humility. Adventists also practice a number of dietary restrictions. They recommend vegetarianism and avoiding caffeine and alcohol, and by following the food guidelines laid out in Leviticus, they essentially keep kosher. Their food rules have actually had historical implications: Adventists popularized breakfast cereal a century ago. On a local scale, Smyrna is having the same sort of influence on local eating. The Wellington Square Farmers’ Market was not started

SIDEWALKS from page 4

been installed near historical trees in Santa Monica, Glendale and Pasadena, but Lacy said it was the local communities, not the City of Los Angeles, that installed them. During the city’s initial assessment of the sidewalk repair problem, they had considered the option to detour the walkway around the roots of the trees, but determined that the areas in question are not wide enough to accommodate the needs of the disabled. “When you talk about more narrow, we must have four-and-a-half feet to be ADA (Americans With Disabilities Act)-compliant, so they’re not going to make a three-foot sidewalk,� Lacy said. “One of the thoughts was to remove all of the concrete and put a black top sidewalk over the roots and there’s more give to asphalt. I don’t know if they’ll do that, but that’s been another suggestion. I can pretty well assure you that the city has no intention of taking down those trees.� Lacy said she is going to

City of Los Angeles have tested the trees and found that they are stable and not diseased, according to Sylvia Lacy, North Central Senior Deputy for Council District 10. “When we had looked at it before, there was no way to repair the sidewalk without destroying the trees. So the decision was made, don’t fix the sidewalk,� Lacy said. The sidewalks’ condition has since worsened and locals have begun to recognize something must be done to improve conditions for pedestrians. During the meeting, the general consensus was in opposition to cutting any tree’s roots. When larger roots are cut, trees can lose their stability and become more likely to cause harm by falling over, Sonntag explained. Repair suggestions during the meeting included curving the sidewalk around larger root systems or putting black top or rubber sidewalk, made from recycled tires, in place. Rubber sidewalks have

by parishioners. But market manager Lora Davis found a receptive audience when she proposed the market idea to the church leaders: no meat, no caffeine, and they were good to go. The government bodies that deal with certified farmers’ markets have no problem with the religious restrictions at Wellington. Davis reports that the Health Department actually appreciates the meatfree market, as it makes their inspections much easier when they don’t have to worry about meat safety. The market is held on Sundays, and church services on Saturdays. Both are interesting, but one is more delicious. meet with Urban Forestry and Street Services in early September to further explore all possible repair options. MINC President Allan DiCastro suggested creating a ranking system to prioritize problem sidewalks that need to be addressed within the community. On a list of all problem sidewalks in Mid-City, different point values would be assigned to categories relating to the trees involved and how dangerous the sidewalk has become. Those categories, such as “high height,� “low height� and “historical,� would help put problem sidewalks on a descending list of condition. The system will be offered to the city as a suggested way to handle the growing issue, in order to help the city prioritize whether a sidewalk needs to be repaired quickly.

[loyola high school]

Community Service at GPACC By Griffin O. Cohen, 10th grade Each year, at Loyola High School, students are required to complete community service. As an incoming sophomore, you have to do 25 hours, so I decided to do my service at our local Griffith Park Adult Community Center in Los Feliz. Since I’ve never had a job, it was a new experience for me, but one I liked. For my service at the center, I helped with the daily lunch and assisted in the great computer lab, which is open daily in the afternoon. The people there were great and were always helping me. For seniors, the center is a great, happening place. The

daily lunches are very nice, offering a great time to interact with others. The computer lab is excellent, and there are always people there to assist even the most basic level computer users. The center even took a day trip to San Diego. Agavni, who runs the lunches, was really helpful and great to me as well as Victor and Cliff from the computer lab. Monty Sutherlin, the director, helped me organize a good schedule at the center, checking in on me every now and then. All of the staff and the seniors were great to me, and I look forward to visiting when I can.

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