Issue 3 December - January 2008

Origins of Christmas TradtionsPAPA CRISTO’S

Reviews of local Restaurants

STREET BARRIERSSTATE CODESTHE COUNCILOFFICE

CommunityXmas events

and much more

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Hi Neighbors!

Well here we are. The 3rd issue. We have gone from 1,500 to 3,000 copies and from 18 to 28 pages.

Once again, I couldn’t have done it without your suggestions, feedback, article ideas,contributions and willingness to pitch in. I distribute this in my community with the help of my neighbor Martin but volunteers are distributing everywhere else and we continue to make inroads into new communities. If you love the ‘News’ and want to help your block receive it, call or email me and I will put you on our volunteer distributors list and drop a batch off on your doorstep. We are also g o i n g t o h a v e o u r v e r y o w n r a c k s s o The Neighborhood News can be picked up at some of our advertisers.

Along with our regular columns, we have lots of great new info in this issue. Judy Walker, grew up in Kinney Heights and remembers how it used to be. She also pays tribute to her recently deceased neighbor, Ira Westley a succesful musician. Our food reviewer Ivy has been busy this issue with two reviews and a report on our Featured Advertiser and neighborhood institution, Papa Christo’s. We also give props in The Neighborhood Report to two area residents who have recently distinguished themselves. There is a lengthy report in Neighborhood Issues, on the ongoing traffic barriers controversy in Western Heights.

In this issue you will also find information about sending donations. I am committed to keeping this a free publication to the community. As you can imagine, from ad sales, to writing and soliciting articles, to layout and design, to distribution my hands are full. The ad revenue is helpful but I need to keep the rates affordable to our small businesses so if you have it in your heart to help fund this community effort, there is information in this issue that will show you how. You will get an angel mention in the next issue unless you want to remain anonymous. The donations are tax deductible!

So once again, Thank You! Now kick back, open The Neighborhood News and enjoy a little walk around the neighborhood! Support your local businesses!

Editors Note Contributors

Carla Weber Washington corridor reporter

James the Gardner Reports on hazardous trees

Judy Walker History Reporter

Kim Lai-Jones Featured Resident Reporter

Martin Ross Astronomy report

Steve Wallis Neighborhood Reports

Jeff CopelandBlock club report

Carol HolidayBlock Club Report

Carlton StubbsSouth Seas House

special thanks to Eric Handel, DigiRob, Peeta Torokvei

theneighborhoodnews@yahoo.com

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5 Neighborhood Report - Time of the Signs6 Community Events7 Community Reports8 Looking UP - Astronomy Report9 The Origins of Christmas Traditions10 Restaurant Review: Natraliart12 Neighborhood Report: Regina Jones, Don Lynch 13 Our Neighborhood Photos14 History: Rembering Kinney Heights & Ira Westley

15 Featured Residence: The Jones-Young House15 Washington Blvd: Yes We Can!

16 Restaurant Review: Eureka17 Featured Advertiser: Papa Cristo’s19 James Gardening Tips: Hazardous Trees

19 Pet Pause: Dogs Tied Up In Backyards

2o Neighborhood Issues: Street Barriers, State Codes, Councilman Wesson23 Police Report: How to Send Safe, Anonymous Tips

24 Retailers Map

L-R; District One Councilman - Ed P. Reyes, Matching Grant Manager - Michael Espinosa, Council District One Field Deputy Rep. Lynnelle Scaduto, Harvard Heights Beautification Member Elizabeth Cooper, Sign Designer - Leanna Hanson, Los Angeles Police Senior Lead Officer Thongin Muy, Harvard Heights Beautification members Alex Marrache (Project Manager), and Gary Rieck (Chairper-son).

TIME OF THE SIGNSNeighborhood Report

Feeling a need to celebrate the community pride of Harvard Heights’ resident Gary Rieck hatched the idea of placing tasteful signage

at every neighborhood intersection. Enlisting the help of fellow residents Alex Marrache, Elizabeth Cooper, Marielle Farnan and Alec Tsongas, the North Harvard Heights Beautification Committee was formed. They named their project “Harvard Heights – Signs to Remind” and in January 2008 the Matching Grant Program awarded them a grant. With the securing of approval from such city entities as the Department of Transportation and the Department of Lighting, graphic designer Leanna Hanson was commissioned to create the designs and veteran city sign manufacturer Maneri Sign was hired to produce and install the chosen design.

The project took almost 15 months to complete. Other invaluable contributors to the project in-cluded Harvard Heights’ residents Brian Beldham, Isabel Cruz, David Escobar, Erika Lopez, Mia Marano, Carmelle Neal, David Nico, Blanca Orellana, Evelyn Orellana, Benjamin and Karen Wade, and Steve Wallis. On the bright, sunny, early afternoon of October 25th in Harvard Heights, the North Harvard Heights Beautification Committee hosted a Block Party to publicize the coming of this historic signage for the neighborhood.

Rinzai-ji Zen Center

INTRODUCTION TO ZENAND ZEN ORIENTATION

by appointment323-732-2263

office@rinzai-ji.org 2505 Cimarron

-Steve Wallis

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All neighbors, families and friends- in the midst of shopping, gift-wrapping, tree-

trimming and cookie-baking.

Wednesday evening, December 24, at 6:00 pm,

for one hour. you are invited to attend a lovely Christmas Eve Candle Light Service with a warm glow and beautiful music. It’ll

be held at a church in the neighborhood -

the Congregational Church of Christian Fellowship,

United Church of Christ-located at 2085 South Hobart Blvd. (2 blocks east of Western Ave. and 1 block south of

Washington Blvd.), LosAngeles, CA 90018. It’s casual dress

COME ONE, COME ALL!! XMAS EVE CANDLIGHT SERVICE

Community Events

THOMAS SENIOR CENTER2475 W. Washington Blvd.

just east of Crenshaw323-734-9091

Holiday Party FRIDAY, DEC 19th 12 pm -2 pm

ActivitiesLunch, Monday-Friday 11:30am- 12:30pmBingo Crafts Line Dancing Field TripsExercise Classes Yoga Card Games

Legal Services Tax Preparation

South Seas HouseThe South Seas House has stood in the

Historic West Adams District for more than 100 years. Originally built in 1902

as a residence home for the Dupuy family, it was brought back to life through the efforts of local community members after years of neglect.

The doors to the South Seas House were re-opened in June of 2003. It is operated by the City of Los Angeles, Department of Recreation and Parks and has been revitalized as a recreation and community center andserves the community with programs for both children and adults.

While it is not your typical recreation center we do offer Day camp programs, computer classes, after school programs, tutoring and small private functions.

Upcoming Events:

Winter Holiday FestivalDecember 13, 2008

10am-2pmBenny H. Potter Park

2301 w 24th St. Los Angeles, Ca 90018The South Seas House will he hosting its 6th annual winter holiday Festival for all Families to enjoy, sponsored by the United Neighborhoods Neighborhood Council and the Department of Recreation and Parks, We will have activities for all families to enjoy. Activities include Ice skating, rock climbing wall, inflata-bles, food, community booths, Santa, Toy Give-away, Music and skate board ramps. If you are interested in having a community booth at the event to pass out information about your program or

services, please contact 323.373.9483.Winter Camp

December 22, 2008-January 9, 2009Ages 6-12 years

$60 for regular care 9am-4pm$70 for extended care 8am-6pmCosts include field trips, afternoon snack, Arts and Crafts activities, and Sports Activities. - Carlton Stubbs

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The Harvard Heights Neighborhood Association did not have their monthly meeting on November 4th but instead

had an election night party on Westmoreland Boulevard. Bill Judson provided the projec-tor and Steve Wallis and Eileen Ehmann staged the event. Over forty neighbors watched history unfold on the big screen and, at one point, spontaneously broke into singing the National Anthem.

Although the business of discussing neighborhood issues was postponed until the December meeting, neighbors did discuss politics and had the opportunity to meet and chat in a lively social setting. The election night party was a terrific success! -Steve Wallis

COMMUNITY REPORTS

HARVARD HEIGHTS

The West 20th Street Block Club held its first meeting on Sunday, Dec. 6 at the Atomic Café in Mid-City. The turn out was

huge and packed the Atomic Café to its capacity. Our neighbors consisted of a diverse demographic of Latino, African American, Caucasian and bi-racial residents. Everyone was enthusiastic with a list of proj-ects submitted for consideration by the club’s organizers.

The club was organized by Jeff Copeland and Dessie Reese to strengthen neighbor relations, beautify the neighborhood, and help drive the gentrification that’s spreading along the Washington Corridor. They were in-spired by Joy Williams, Vice President of the Mid-City Neighborhood Council (M.I.N.C.) and a pillar of the Mid-City Community for over 30 years.

Jeff and Dessie first met while collaborating on the planting of 25 various tree species donated to their block by several landlords. One property owner in par-ticular, landscape designer Brent Green (Green Art Land-scape), planted 45 trees by himself in Region 7 alone. In addition, 18 more trees are scheduled for planting on Saturday, Dec. 6, 2008 at 10:00am. The West 20th Street Block Club is now petitioning volunteers to participate in “VGP” (Volunteer Gardening Party) for this event.

Also discussed at the Block Club meeting were solutions regarding issues such as speeding on residential streets, illegal dumping of personal belongings, stray animals, and abandoned buildings that degrade property values and jeopardize the aesthetic appearance of the neighborhood.

Everyone left in high spirits and was eager to sign up for multiple future projects that will allow the beautification of the West 20th Street Block Club.For those who would like to attend, the next block club meet-ing will be held on Wednesday, December 17th in Mid-City. Please feel free to contact the West 2oth Street Block directly for time and location. -Jeff Copelandw e s t 2 0 t h s t r e e t @ y m a i l . c o m

WEST 20TH ST (west of La Brea)

The Western Heights Neighborhood Association missed the last two meetings because of illness and the elections. A year ago, Cecilia Uribe and

Dianne Lawrence formed a by-laws subcommittee to look at clarifying the current by-laws. When they were ready to present the finished product the Association formed a by-laws workshop to give interested residents a chance to go over the effort and add ideas of their own. There have been several succesful and productive workshops with discussion, ideas and additions flowing freely.

-Dianne Lawrence

WESTERN HEIGHTS

The Wilton Place Family of Neighbors

Having grown-up in the Midwest, I felt a need to be ‘neighborly’ as I had been raised so I created THE WILTON PLACE

FAMILY OF NEIGHBORS. Back in the Midwest, my mother rounded up all the kids each Christmas season, practiced a few carols at home, then bundled us up in boots and gloves for the snow-covered, wintery night. Carrying flashlights and Christmas Seal donation cans, we’d go door to door, ringing door bells, singing our carols. When we finished we’d head back to my house for my mom’s delicious hot

chocolate and home-baked Christmas cookies. When my daughter was very young (7 or 8), I decided to continue this tradition. On Wilton Place I did the same with the children who lived on the block. Grandchildren of some of the residents would even come over for the occasion. Although my daughter is grown and gone, we once again have small children in the block and will resume this joy-ful activity this Christmas season! -Carol Holida

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On the first of the month the moon, Jupiter and Venus will all be very close to each other, low in the southwest just after sunset.

Winter Solstice on December 21 is the shortest day (9 hours and 53 minutes) of the year with the longest night (14 hours and 7 minutes). The duration of day-light will increase now until the Summer Solstice on 21 June, exactly 6 months later. Our ancient brothers and sisters, across the globe, would light lamps, candles, and bonfires on Solstice Days, winter and summer, to mark their calendars. You can tell by the wonderful lights decorating many houses that we still carry this tradition on.

This December 24th marks the 40th Anniversary of the first time humans left earth orbit for another world. Apollo 8 orbited the moon 10 times on Christmas Eve of 1968 and we could watch it happening live on television.

Early January sees the welcome appearance of the bright winter stars of the constellations Orion “The Hunter” and his ever-faithful dog “Canis Major” in the southeast, early evening sky. The twinkling eye of Canis Major, a star called Sirius, is the brightest of all the stars that can be seen from earth. Because they are dozens of times more massive and hotter than the Sun, they burn “white hot” while our Sun merely burns “yellow hot”. Seeing the intense white twinkle of these stars on a chilly winter night can remind us of the wonderful diversity of stars across our galaxy.

Humans Leave Earth 40 yrs Ago

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Many of our holidays have their roots in Pagan celebrations and Christmas is not an exception. Based on biblical description of events occuring

at the time, many historians place Jesus’s birth sometime in September not December.

Winter solstice, which occurs between Dec. 20 and 23, is the longest night of the year after which the Sun slowly begins to return and the long nights become shorter. Around the world and through time, cultures celebrate this important time of year and our current festivities repeat many of these traditions and rituals. In ancient Rome they called it Saturnalia, honoring Saturn, the God of Agriculture. Part of the fun involved the Mummers, a group of costumed singers and dancers that traveled from house to house entertaining their neighbors. Our Xmas carolers continue this tradition.

In Northern Europe they called their celebrations “Yule” a word meaning “wheel” symbol for the sun. Huge yule logs were burned in honor of the sun and people kissedunder the Mistletoe, a plant symbolizing fertility. The evergreen, a tree that kept its green color in winter, was brought indoors to remind everyone that crops would grow again.

In 1521 we have the first record of an evergreen being used during a Christmas celebration. “Better they should look to the true tree of life, Christ” cried an angry minister. The controversy continues today with the paganfocus on gift giving, a tradition that started with St. Nicholas or Santa Claus. A real person, Nicholas of Myar, a bishop in Roman settlements in Turkey, was considered a miracle worker and protector of the poor. He heard of a man who could not provide a dowry for his daughters. No dowry, no husband, which would condemn the unfortunate women to a life of slavery. Nicholas did not want his identity known while he did his good deeds so the story goes that he climbed the roof and dropped small sacks of gold coin down the chimney. This particular night the girls had left their stockings to dry by the chimney and somehow the gold found their way into the stockings.

But the return of the light to dispel the long nights of darkness, seems to be a perfect symbolfor the birth of Christ. In 350 AD, in order to help the converted Romans make an easy transition to their new Christian religion, Pope Julius 1 declared the 25th of December to be Christ’s birthday. This allowed them to continue with their traditional holidays.

- Dianne V Lawrence

The Origins of Christmas Traditions

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Ive been making notes to myself to eat at Natraliart for weeks now. It’s close to home, convenient and not expensive. What was taking me so long? I realized my

resistance was influenced by its odd name. Well, if the name was unnatural to me, the food certainly wasn’t. I walked into the market connected to the restaurant and was greeted by a big display of beautiful plantains and roots. I made my way into the restaurant where the diners were eating and watching a news show on TV. I glanced at the menu while the woman behind the counter kindly responded to my request for her recommendations. She set me up with a dinner of red snapper and a small order of vegetable soup.

As I waited for my food, which came quickly, I admired the motto on the wall, “Out of Many, One People” and a brightly painted map of Jamaica. The place is simple but clean, well-lit and filled with mouthwatering aromas. A local bulletin board listed all sorts of current activities and services.I took my dinner to go, got home and found a fresh and perfectly cooked red snapper (head on) with a generous portion of red beans, rice, vegetables, fried plantains and a simple dumpling sort of item that could become quite addictive. Natraliart’s seasoning enhances the food without overpowering it and the plantains weren’t greasy but plump and fresh which is just how a fried plantain should be cooked.

The hearty soup was marvelous with sexy unfamil-iar spices. Even if you’re a meat lover, this soup would make you forget your taste for meat!

It was a perfect meal. I ate everything without feeling stuffed – and I have a very healthy appetite! If you pass Natraliart by, it’s probably because it lacks curb appeal, but don’t overlook this Jamaican gem or their market of cool food items. I’ll be stopping by again just to get some of the jars of jerk seasoning to try in my own kitchen.

See you there, Ivy

ivyeatseverything.blogspot.com

NATRALIART DIS A’DI PLACE FI DI JAMAIKAN TASTE

Restaurant Review

3426 W. Washington Blvda few blocks west of Arlington at 6th (see back page)

WANT TO ADVERTISE WITH US?contact

theneighborhoodnews@yahoo.comor

323-871-8580

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ReportNeighborhood

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

REGINA JONES

Regina Jones, was honored with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Black Hollywood Education and Resource Center.

Regina, a 42 year resident of Country Club Park, was Founder and Publisher of Soul Newspaper, the first biweekly dedicated to the coverage of Black arts and entertainment in 1966. During Soul’s sixteen years of publication Regina participated in all aspects of publishing and the magazine was credited with assisting in the launch of many now legendary recording artists.After the newspaper she began a career in public

relations and coordinated events including fundraising and publicity for the Reverend Jesse Jackson’s 1984 president ia l campaign. Regina was responsible for his appearance (the first presidential candidate to appear) on Saturday Night Live.

In 1986, she started her own independent public relations firm handling press, public relations, event planning and crisis management for diverse clients that included: NAACP Image Awards (13 Annual Shows), Geffen Records (James Ingram), the Bishop Tutu World Peace Concert, Black Women’s Forum, Coca-Cola USA, Orchid Communications, Capi-tol Records and a number of actors (Cicely Ty-son), producers, recording artists and executives. Regina began working with Crystal Stairs, Inc. in 1995 to develop media and public awareness of the agency’s childcare programs and accomplishments and raised $7.5 million. Regina is currently working on The SOUL Legacy, a nonprofit corporation to preserve, collect, exhibit, and share the rich history and cultural heritage of Black entertainment during the 60’s and 70’s.

West AdamsIMAGES OF AMERICA

recently published West Adams, Images of America. Co-authored by Western Heights resident historian, Don Lynch, along with West Adam residents Suzanne Tarbell Cooper and John Kurtz, You will find 1918 aerial shots of both Western Heights and Kinney Heights as well as historic scenes from each neighborhood. A number of historic pictures of homes in Western Heights are featured such as: 2129 West 21st, 2101 S. Gramercy, 2219 West 20th (contemporary photo, but the shooting in the entryway in 1913 was too good to leave out of the book), 2268 West 20th, 2279 West 20th, and 2267 West 20th.You can order it from Amazon.comThe perfect Holiday gift!

Western Heightsauthor Don Lynch

Find out more about thisfascinating area in the

Did you know that West Adams

contains the largestconcentration of historical monumentsin all of Los Angeles?

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Our Neighborhood

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Kinney & Western Heights

A Look Back&

RememberingIra Westley

History

In 1956 the sights and sounds of the neighborhoods we now call Kinney Heights and

Western Heights were quite different. Even the reference name was different. Most people referred to the area bounded by Normandie, Arlington, Adams and Washington as Sugar Hill.

Fruit trees, peach and orange, grew along the parkways. I often remember walking as a child, along Cimmaron toward 22nd St.. There was a white stucco fence protecting an avocado tree. Its limbs shaded the street and it was loaded with avocado’s that would fall on the sidewalk and splatter under our feet as we walked to the market, which is now the transmission shop on Washington.

Having grown up here from the mid 1950’s to 1968, and returning as a resident in the early 90’s, I have observed a characteristic that has remained, the variety of professionals, doctors, lawyers, businessmen and athletes living in our neighborhood. But the group that really stood out for me were the musicians and people in the film and television industry. Many musicians lived on 23rd street between Gramercy and Arl ington. In the mid 50’s Johnnie Otis a musician who had his own television show lived down the street. He invited his daughter’s Blue Bird troop, a branch of the Camp Fire Girls, on his show. I was one those little girlsholla hooping at the CBS studio on

Fairfax. In the ‘60’s a family of musicians moved across the street from me on 23rd who played with Marvin Gaye and the Temptations.

While visiting my grandparents in 1978 I kept noticing a Rolls Royce and found out it was Marvin Gaye, who was also visiting his parents who lived in the neighborhood on Gramercy and 21st. Today on our block, we have a yearly jam session that has been a longstanding tradition in the neighborhood.Although my neighbor, Ira Westley

kept his day job at Hughes Aircraft, he was considered to be one of the best bass players around. He played with the Harry James Orchestra, Jack Tea-garden, Horace Height, Herb Alpert and the Smothers Brothers. He also appeared in minor parts in Sparta-cus and Please Don’t Eat the Daisies where his wife Nancy appeared with him playing Beatnik musicians in the coffee house scene.

Mr. Westley died this October, 2008. When I got together with ano the r ne ighbor who had also returned to live in West Adams, we reminisced about Mr. Westley. He loved wearing lederhosen and playing tuba for the Disneyland Marching and Polka bands. Because of him we and his children knew every inch of Disneyland blindfolded. A week prior to his demise Mr. Westley was playing his bass at a restaurant in Pasadena weekly. We are happy to have befriended a grand man.

- Judy Walker

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The Jones-Young ResidenceFeatured Residence

Our house was built in 1903. Unlike most homes in the neighborhood it had only changed hands twice so it had all of the original doors,

windows and trim. Amazingly, none of the original wood on the first floor had been painted and upstairs, where the wood is traditionally painted, there were only two coats. One of our favorite features is the large wrap around porch. The front door and French doors from theliving and dining rooms, open up to it. During our debate party, people simply went out the front door and in through the dining room door to avoid navigating through the crowd to get to the food. It’s also wide enough for my daughter to skate, ride her scooter when it’s either raining or too hot and since it’s concrete she can use her chalk paint on it as well. The railing is really wide making it a great place to hang out and visit with neighbors.

- Kim -Lai Jones

The home of Kim-Lai jones, Gerald Young and Spencer Young.

I have lived on Washington Blvd west of La Brea for 34 years. I remember stepping out of my art studio, the gutter my moat, to find the friendly neighborhood

streetwalker, Dorothy, looking out for anyone who dared to even glance at my funky assed chariot with ill intention. The streets were littered with discarded drug paraphernalia, used condoms, candy wrappers and assorted broken furni-ture. I’ve have been here long enough to have witnessed what was: desolate, abandoned misbegotten and forgotten. I too encouraged a no man’s land attitude by not dressing up my property and installing a faux boarded up storefront look.

Years went by before I really began my inner gentrification. Despite ineffective neighborhood meetings, landscaping the front yard only to have flowers, plants, and branches from the young jacaranda tree pulled, cars being broken into for radios that didn’t work or worse, for baby car seats that had seen better days, and of course, the relentless tagging on the front of buildings, garbage cans and sidewalks, our hood finally came around. Looking back I see that it was hopeful, doggedper-sistence that ultimately reshaped our neighborhood. Change came and the Washington Corridor, (which I consider runs between La Cienaga and Normandy) hasreflected the phenomena with recent additions of galleries,

restaurants, theatres, art studios, libraries and schools as well as the participation of a growing body of individuals that have stimulated not only the economy but the aesthetic of the boulevard. This has encouraged people outside ofreflected the phenomena with recent additions of galleries, restaurants, theatres, art studios, libraries and schools as well as the participation of a growing body of individuals that have stimulated not only the economy but the aestheticthe hood to come down to participate in theatre, workshops, capoeira classes, gallery openings and a wide range of food. We are in the beginning of a real cultural renaissance that has also navigated north to Pico Blvd. Okay, I can’t always get a parking space by my studio because of the nearby Attic Theatre, but something wonderful is happening here. The streetwalkers and desolation are gone, it’s good to see most of the trees that were planted back in 2007 thriv-ing and the new stationary trashcans are great. Although we still have taggers, the occasional abandoned car and the need to make more strides to function as part of an in-tegrated community, change is on its way. I’m jumping on the Obama bandwagon and saying “Yes We Can!” to parks, banks, supermarkets, bakeries, pharmacies, cleaners,shoe repair shops, bookshops, restaurant’s, pet shops, more café’s and why not a Trader Joe’s...all within the next 5-10 years, or sooner! - Carla Weber

YES WE CAN!Washington Blvd.

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Located 3 blocks East of Crenshaw, just east of the Bank of America, this brand new cafe is a special treat and can easily become a regu-lar part of your weekly routine. More than just a source for deli-

cious healthy food, it’s become the local clubhouse. On Sundays you will run into neighbors enjoying brunch and a Sunday paper. The especially yummy espresso drinks are made from the best beans and imported flavor-ings. They are guaranteed to perk you up without jangling your nerves.

I loved my breakfast sandwich with fluffy eggs and turkey bacon so much that I didn’t share it (unusual for me). The herb potatoes were more than the usual sad after-thought that most restaurant potatoes typically are. The sauce on the eggs benedict over spinach (or ham) was creamy and delicious and the toasty English muffins were just right. I’ve also tried the tuna fish sand-wich which is always a test of the kitchen and it passed with flying colors.

The cheerful and hard-working staff made every effort to accommodate special orders even while learning how to operate the new cafe. The day I was there, Eureka Cafe owner’s, Johnny and his wife Therese, were close at hand greeting everyone and keeping things running smoothly. Our waitress, Dana, gets high marks for her great attitude and big smile!

Great bonuses are the dog friendly lawn and water for our 4-legged friends, and Internet access! The inside of the cafe is simple and inviting, but you’ll want to take advantage of the shady umbrellas on the patio. Rumor has it that they are soon going to extend their hours to include dinnertime.

See you there! Ivy ivyeatseverything.blogspot.com

Where West Adams Elite Meet to Eat n Greet

Restaurant Review

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Featured Advertiser

Did you grow up in a gregarious home-where whatever -

came out of the kitchen was delicious and everyone was welcome? Well, if you didn’t, you’re lucky to have Papa Cristo’s C&K Importing nearby as a second home – a homestylye atmosphere with food that can’t be missed. It opened in 1948 as an import store by Sam Chrys to bring authentic Greek products to Los Angeles. His son Chrys Chrys “Papa Cristo” expanded it to include a restaurant. He has kept up the tradition of low prices for high quality and friendly service. A refreshing departure from the norm of paying sky-high prices for imported foods in specialty stores (Do you hear me L’ Occitane?).

Nutritionists have been increasingly recommending a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil, fish, vegetables. While this is news to the average American diet of processed substances and saturated fats that pass as food – the Greeks and their neighbors have known the health benefits of their diet for … well, since the years ending with B.C. If you want to prepare your own meals and forego the restaurant, you aren’t limited to the variety of imported goods that line the shelves....You can step up to the deli counter and buy freshly baked bread, Greek feta and yoghurt, varieties of bulk olives, skewers of kababs, dips, spreads, pastries. I could go on and on!

Upon our first meeting, Papa Cristo met me with a big hug and happily showed me the framed copy of his

father’s manifest from his arrival onEllis Island. Samos had signed h is s igna ture wi th such a flourish I couldn’t make outthe original last name (which rolledoff Papa Cristo’s tongue with ease), and apparently the attendant couldn’t either. He was assigned the name Sam Chrys, a name he was so proud of he had it legally changed.Thus he proudly named his son, the future “Papa Cristo” the name is an Americanized Chrys Chrys.

Chrys is passionate about feeding his friends, and he considers you his friend even before he’s met you. All of his ingredients are bursting with

freshness and flavor. He took me back into the kitchen to watch the process of handmade spanako p i ta wi th whole-wheat filo dough and I wasmesmerized by the deft movements of the 2 ladies who were smiling and gossiping and creating them by the dozen. “We provide them for our customers, but also for Mrs. Gooches, Whole Foods Markets and other quality stores.” So if you want the real spanakopita fresh out of the kitchen at a reasonable price, you know where to get it. The décor is a world away from the chi-chi LA eateries, which insist

you dress up for dinner and can be downright intimidating. Here you’ll find communal tables draped with checkered table coverings, that makeyou feel comfortable putting y o u r e l b o w s o n t h e t a b l e . The walls are covered with faded travel posters of the Greek isles, and the music is lively. Just the thing at the end of a long day when you just want to chill with some good food!

The food! Appetizers andsalads are the size of meals and entrees are the size of feasts! Diners order at the counter and servers bring the food to your table. Be sure to order any extra sides as they charge for them – and after you taste their sauces, you’ll definitely want extra!Which brings me to a recent meal with friends: we shared a salad, saganaki, zesty shrimp and veggie entrée they whipped up for the vegetarian in our group and the ultra popular – gyros pizza! I’ve grown up loving those sandwiches, but this was gyros to the power of… GYROS! Drizzled with extra sauce, I was in heaven

So I came back this week for Papa Cristo’s Big Fat Greek Family Style Dinner. I t is every Thursday night at 6:30 and features wine tasting,appetizers, two

entrees, salad, green beans, roasted potatoes, fresh-baked bread, bakalava dessert, coffee and belly dancing entertainment for just $24 which includes tax and tip plus free parking!At the end of the meal servers came by to give us To Go containers so that none of the delicious food was wasted.Yay! Another midnight fridge raid courtesy of Papa Cristo’s!

ivyeatseverything.blogspot.com

PAPA CRISTO’SThere’s a reason it’s been in business 60 yrs.

By Ivy

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Holiday Gift Yardsale!!

SATURDAYDec 14 - 9 - 4

Gorgeous

Pashmina’sfrom India

strong, warmvibrant colors

$40!!VINTAGE 50’S

AND 60’SCollectablesFurnitureClothing

and much moreSomething for

everyone!!

2223 1/2 W. 21st St90018

2 blks S of Washingtonbetween Western

and Arlingon, just east

of Gramercy

323-734-9119answer to riddle: noon

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Al t h o u g h t r e e s p r o v i d e m a n y b e n e f i t s t o p e o p l e a n d t h e environment, they can also pose many risks.

A tree can become hazardous if its structure is unsound and there is a target that would be injured or damaged if the tree or a branch fails.Here are some things to look out for:

Weak branch attachments, dead, diseased or de-cayed branches and limbs, root loss, root decay or excessive weight on the branches. When the weight of the limb exceeds the strength of it’s attachment, it will break and fall. Watch out for branches growing horizontal and bowing down from excessive growth of leaves, fruit or seeds. Branch-es that are getting ready to drop are usually more horizontal than vertical and extend to or beyond the edges of the tree’s crown.

Trees with double trunks can fail at the crotch as the tree ages. Gusty winds create tough forces that can split out one of the leaders. Branches and dead palm fronds in contact with electrical wire become fire hazards. So look up and remember “safety first”.

James’ Gardening Tips

HAZARDOUS TREESPet Pause

Dear Pet PauseI live next door to a neighbor who keeps his dogs tied up in the yard. It is difficult for me to enjoy my yard because those dogs seem so bored and sad. Is there anything I can do to help them?Soft Touch

Dear Soft TouchThank you for your willingness to step up for the dogs. Thanks to an ordinance (which

I helped fashion) it is now illegal in the City of Los Angeles to tie your dog up in the yard. There are also stronger requirements for the proper care of dogs left to live in a yard. If you decide you would like to help a dog you could call Animal control and report the situation. Although they will ask for your name it is illegal for them to give this information out. Animal Reg. will investigate and give the owners time to comply. The majority of owners do. They usually just need a little educating. In our next issue we will hear from Bob Ferber, Chief Prosecuting attorney for animal cruelty cases. He will give a report on the reality of life for a back yard dog.

- Dianne Lawrence

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Do you dispute, Disagree or have different information? Questions?Opinions?Email us at theneighborhoodnews@yahoo.com

Background: In 2005, the desire for

traffic barriers in Western Heights came to Councilman Ludlow’s attention through a local resident working for him at the time. Armed with a survey generated by the Western Heights Neighborhood Association indicating the support of 49 residents, he brought a motion, co-signed by Bernard Parks, to City Hall. It passed. Unaware of this activ-ity the neighborhood, including the local Fire Station, woke up one morning to find themselves surround-ed by traffic barriers with a full bar-rier next to the Fire Station, effectively blocking immediate emergency access. In the motion, Councilman Ludlow referred to California Vehicle Code SEC 21101 and 21101.4. as justification for the installations.From the motion: “Sections 21101 and 21101.4 of the California Vehicle Code allow for the clo-sure of a street when it is de-termined that the street “has an unsafe volume of vehicular traf-fic and a significant incidence of crime,” and most importantly “The conditions currently existing within the western heights neighborhood satisfy the requirements of the Vehicle Code.

THE PROBLEM: Unfortunatelyno authorities were involved nor allowed to determine if the conditions In Western Heights did indeed meet the standards setforth in the State Code. Ludlow usedresident anecdotes as his criteria. In effect he invoked the name of thecode but apparently ignored the requirements in the code.

Lets look at a few of the requirements and problems of 21101.4

from - http://law.onecle.com/cali-fornia/vehicle/21101.4.html

(a) A local authority may, by ordinance or resolution,adopt rules and regulations for temporarily closing to throughtraffic a highway under its jurisdiction when all of the followingc o n d i t i o n s a r e , a f t e r a public hearing, found to exist: (1) The local authority finds and determines that there is seriousand continual criminal activity in the portion of the highway recommended for temporary closure. This finding and determination shall be based upon the recommendation of the police department or, in the case of a highway in an unincorporated area, on the jointrecommendation of the sheriff’s de-partment and the Department of theCalifornia Highway Patrol.Problem: There was no public hear-ing. There was no determination of serious or continual crime nor recommendations by the police department. (3) Vehicular or pedestrian traffic on the highway contributes to the criminal activity.Problem: According to the city’s own crime stats, in 2005 Western Heightsstats were low. There were no r e p o r t s f r o m t h e L A P D identifying it as a high crime area and no determination car traffic had an undue effect on crime.(4) The closure will not

substantially adversely affect trafficflow, safety on the adjacent streets or in the surroundingneighborhoods, the operation of emergency vehicles, the perfor-mance of municipal or public utility services, or the delivery of freightby commercial vehicles in the area of the highway proposed to betemporarily closed.Problem: One of the temporary barriers currently blocks emergency access from the Fire Station next to it. The proposed permanent gate that is being planned for the intersec-tion next to the Fire Station, will let our Fire Station in but delay re-sponse. And it will prevent any other emergency vehicles from entering because they will not have a key. No determination has been made on the af fect of the surrounding neighborhoods but theflow of traffic on Arlington and an alley has become a problem. The LAFD has consistently spoken against the barriers and was especially upset at the full barrier installed next to their station. Most importantly:(b) A highway may be temporarily closed pursuant to subdivision(a) for not more than 18 months, except that this period may beextended for not more than eight additional consecutive periods ofnot more than 18 months each if, prior to each of those extensions,the local authority holds a public hearing and finds, by ordinance orresolution, that all of the fo l lowing condit ions ex is t(1)Continuation of the temporary

Neighborhood Issues

Traffic Barriers, State Codes, Councilman Wesson

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EditorialDianne V. Lawrence

c l o s u r e w i l l a s s i s t i npreventing the occurrence orreoccurrence of the serious andcontinual criminal activity found to exist when the immediatelypreceding temporary closure was authorized. This finding anddetermination shall be based upon the recommendation of the policedepartment or, in the case of a high-way in an unincorporated area, onthe joint recommendation of the sheriff’s department and the Department of the California Highway Patrol.Problem: According to the code and the motion, the sole purpose of the barriers was to calm crime and the traffic cause by it. After 18 months if the crime had calmed, the barriers have to go or be re-authorized. This has not happened. The temporary barrier has been held in place for 36 months with no end in sight and without any de-termination made by the LAPD.Crime stats have remained the same. (c) The local authority shall mail written notice of the publichearing required under subdivision (a) or (b) to all residents andowners, as shown on the last equalized assessment roll, of property adjacent to the portion of highway where a temporary closure orextension of temporary closure is proposed.Problem: Never happened.

Councilman Wessons OfficeSteps In

When Councilman Wesson was installed as representative of Council District 10, he inherited the fallout from his predecessor Councilman Ludlow. He called a public meeting and acknowl-edged the process had not been doneproperly, vowing to do so. He warned that in the end a compromise would probably be reached. But other than notifying the community of a meetingit appears as if he also ignored the rest of the legal requirements. Although he

implemented a petition asking yes orno for the barriers, a petition is nota legal requirement in the code which rests on the issue of crime, not neighborhood desire. Indeed if the installation of traffic barriers rested on neighborhood desire the city would be filled with enclosed communities. Although he did meet with authorities, according to a source, Wesson seemed unconcerned with LAFD issues. or with the fact that the Dept. of Trans-portation had never been left out of the loop before, or by the possibility of lawsuits to the City. One is left wonder-ing why. Confusing behavior since the Councilman has identified himself as a champion of the LAFD.

He called a final neigh-borhood meeting, issued his decree and quickly left the room before questions could be asked. The barriers would stay as they were. No compromise was offered. He asked that the neighborhood install thepermanent barriers, which they were responsible for, within a year. TO DATE, three years later:Western Heights still lives with the temporary barriers and the resi-dents in charge of the project have not been able to come up with the money (appprox. $60-70,000), en-gineers designs, and permits to install permanent traffic barriers. To date the project has raised approxi-mately $33,000 but seems stalled in the process. The permit fees alone will use most of this money. There are hopes that Councilman Wesson will find a way to have the fees (much needed by the city) waived but the residents in charge have been waiting for an answer for nearly a year. Plans to raise the funds needed beyond the permit phase remain unclear. Becausethe barriers have not followed required procedures, according tothe permit office it will be difficult ifnot impossible for the permit to be granted. $1000 began the permitprocess at the start of the year. But when the deadline ends, they can

leaving the temporary barriers in place and LAFD and LAPD with no access.Question of LiabilityThe Association is attempting to incorporate in order to get the necessary insurance. But the question remains, if someone‘s life or home is compromised now because of delay, who gets sued? As it stands the City appears liable because they have ignored the State code criteria for installing barriers.Precident has been set in the courts and barriers did not win. (Hawaiian Gardens V City of Long Beach)

The request to at least make the temporary barrier next to the station partial until they become permanent and a 9 0 s i g n a t u r e r e s i d e n t petition supporting LAFD’s need for unobstructed emergency access (rather than the planned for gate) has been rebuffed by the Association, and Councilman Wesson, Neighbors attempting to con-tact the council office to get clarity on these issues are met with silence or a chilly rebuff and are told that Councilman Wesson was “finished” with this issue. But, although he seems averse to allowing his decisions to be put in writing, he has consistently issued decrees through his liaisons in support of the barriers and the gate.

Currently the issue is being brought to the United Neighborhood Council on Dec. 16. They act as a liaison between community issues and the City and among other things, address code violations.

As Councilman Wesson has stated, traffic barriers are one of the most divisive issues that a neighborhood can deal with. This makes it all the more critical that “i’s” are dotted and “t’s” are crossed. One is left to wonder how, when lives are at risk, so many ‘i’s’ and ‘t’s have been left out of the process altogether. Phone calls to Councilman Wesson’s office remain unanswered.

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In response to the public’s demand for secure and anonymous ways to sub-

mit crime tips to authorities, the Los Angeles Police Department has developed two new anony-mous tip reporting systems.

Previously, there was no system whereby information could be passed from the public to the police and back without the identity of the per-son providing information being known to the police. Ultimately, many valuable tips were withheld from police because people lacked confidence that their identity would be kept anonymous. Anonymous letters did not have a mechanism to ask simple follow-up questions, or eliminate hoaxes. These new services offered by the LAPD overcome all of these concerns.

The LAPD is hopeful that these two new anonymous tip systems will open the flow of information between a community fearful of gangs and the police.

TEXT-A-TIP SERVICEThis allows a tipster to provide information to the LAPD and remain completely anonymous through text or SMS messag-ing. SMS or Short Message Service are common text messages which can be used by virtually any cell phone user. Tipsters type the word “LAPD” plus their crime information on their cell phone or PDA to the number 2-7-4-6-3-7 which spells out the word “CRIMES”. The text message is en-crypted and an alias is generated for the tipster, masking their identity from the police. There is no way for the police to determine the user’s identity.

To text a tip to the Los Angeles Po-lice Department, you must have text messaging enabled on your phone and subscribe to a participating cell phone carrier. To begin your tip session, text .the word “LAPD” along with your crime information to the number,2-7-4-6-3-7, which spells the word “CRIMES” on your phone’s keypad.

While handset menus differ by carrier or model, here are some basic steps on how to compose a text message

Find “Messaging” or “SMS” on your phone’s menu.

1. Create a new text message or send text or SMS text.2. When composing your message:Enter the number 2-7-4-6-3-7 as the mobile # or in the “to” line. In the message body, type the word LAPD, a space, and then your crime tip information (LAPD is not case sensitive).3. Hit “Send” to send the message.4. You will receive a response from TipSoft shortly, which will start the secure text dialogue.

For your safety, when you complete your tip submission, you should al-ways delete all text messages to and from 2-7-4-6-3-7 from your text message in box and out box.

TIPSOFT WEB TIPS

USERS GO TO:www.lapdonline.org and follow the link for “Anonymous Web Tips” where they can fill in a form and submit it via the internet. The tip goes through a

secure server where, again the identity of the sender is masked from the authorities receiving the Web tip. The Two-Way Dialogue features allow the tipster to return at their convenience and securely pro-vide additional information to their original tip and investigators can securely ask questions or provide instructions back to the tipster as well.

POLICE REPORT

Submitting a crime tip through the web is as easy as go-ing to the www.lap-donline.org website and clicking on the A N O N Y M O U S WEB TIP link.

Tipsters will fill out the web tip form. Once completed, they can elect to create a password and click on the Submit Tip button. A tip code is created after a tip is submitted. Tipsters can check the status of their tip at a later date by logging in with their code and password.No mobile phone information is collected by the Los Angeles Police Dept. as part of this program. Your Text-A-Tip and Web-Tips are completely anonymous to the LAPD. and is only identifiable by the code provided to you. Any information submitted is directed to the LAPD’s Regional Crime Center detectives, who will disseminate the information to the appropriate LAPD investigative unit.

Safe, Anonymous Tips

Cut this out and keep it.Never know when it willcome in handy!

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