Larchmont Chronicle
vol. 53, no. 7
• delivered to 76,439 readers in hancock park • windsor square • fremont place • Miracle Mile • Park La Brea • Larchmont •
IN THIS ISSUE
july 2016
Dozen 'for lease' signs on Larchmont Blvd. New stores are also among the tenant mix
DESIGN FOR LIVING, annual edition. Sec. 2
CARNIVAL was Around the Town. 1-8
PETS OF LARCHMONT.
1-13
REMEMBERING the greatest. 2-3
For Information on Advertising Rates, Please Call Pam Rudy 323-462-2241, x 11 Mailing permit:
By Brooke Stewart The tenant mix on Larchmont is ever changing. Despite new stores like Perverse Sunglasses moving onto the street, visitors are seeing more vacancies than usual along the blocks of Larchmont north of First St. For ground-floor spaces, nearly 16 percent of the storefronts are now vacant (12 spaces of approximately 75). Lette Macarons recently closed, leaving the space at #122 vacant. Across the street, Z Pizza at #123, in an Albert Mizrahi-owned building, closing July 3, leaves another empty space. The former Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf at #135 is under construction to be a poké sushi restaurant. The former Nicole Boutique at #137 has a “for lease” sign. The former Kicks LA at #141 is vacant as well. On the east side of the street, Pickett Fences has moved from its original spot to the west side. Next to Pickett Fences’ former spot, Crumbs Bakery has closed, and Hans Custom Optik has relocated north of Beverly to #419, leaving three vacant spaces at #s 212, 214 and 216 available for lease.
Jamba Juice is gone at #158. Landlord Tom Kneafsey indicated to the Chronicle that a new tenant may be in the space before the end of the summer. A few doors south and just south of the “Hardwear” clothing store (in the old Larchmont Hardware building, get it?), the original Sam’s Bagels space at #150 is available for lease. Sam’s is still in business AFTER WAITING DECADES, Hancock Park residents welcomed concrete street paving in June. Councilman David Ryu initiated projects for the historic area. More photos page 5.
Eli Broad talks about new exhibit Cindy Sherman inspired his collecting
LETTE sold its last macaroon on the boulevard last month.
in a small space to the north of Hardwear. That also is an Albert Mizrahi-owned building. Mizrahi is remodeling another of his properties — the building at #227, which is the See Larchmont leasing, p 3
Hancock Park leader asked us to embrace change
Single-family zoning is being drafted
Len Hill is dead at 68 By John Welborne The squire of the landmark La Casa de las Campanas (House of the Bells) on N. June St. and a leader in the national movement to protect the zoning of single-family neighborhoods, Leonard F. Hill, died peacefully at his home on June 7. A resident of Hancock Park since 1986, Leonard Hill long had a commitment to preserving residential neighborhoods and historic buildings. Born and raised in Los Angeles, Hill was a Lifetime Cornerstone Member of the Los Angeles Conservancy and served two terms on its board of direc-
By Bridget Conrad Photographer Cindy Sherman’s first exhibition of work in Los Angeles in nearly 20 years opened at The Broad museum in June. In an interview with the Larchmont Chronicle, Eli Broad said the new exhibit, “Cindy Sherman: Imitation of Life,” is tailored to a Los Angeles audience. He said Sherman’s work played a huge role in defining his and Edythe Broad’s passion for collecting art. Sherman was one of the first artists whose work they collected in depth. The Broad has the largest collection of Cindy Sherman’s photos in the world. Sherman’s art is thought provoking, and through her photo-
Areas are opting for inclusion in BMO
LEONARD F. HILL was a leader in many neighborhoods.
Photo by Leonard Auslender
tors. Conservancy president Linda Dishman said of him: “Len Hill was a passionate See Len Hill, p 11
By Suzan Filipek City planners met with residents from 15 neighborhoods including La Brea-Hancock and Larchmont Heights last month to determine zoning options to protect the areas from teardowns and McMansions. Planning Dept. staff outlined six zoning schemes from the less to the most restrictive at the city’s Neighborhood Conservation meetings. See Single-family zones, p 5
graphs viewers are forced to rethink stereotypes created by See Eli Broad, p 7
Metro report: weekend traffic challenges Prepare for detours, longer trips By Brooke Stewart As part of Metro's extension of the Purple Line, portions of Wilshire Blvd. are being closed for 22 weekends (not including Fourth of July and Labor Day weekends). The project of installing concrete decking over the subway station excavation site takes place in three phases: phase one with closures between Detroit St. and La Brea Ave., phase two with closures at Wilshire/La Brea, and phase three with closures between La Brea and Highland Ave. Firsthand account On the first weekend of the See Metro, p 16
Women of Larchmont
Our annual section, which has honored local women since 1965, will be published in the August issue. Advertising deadline is Fri., July 15. For more information, contact Pam Rudy at pam@larchmontchronicle. com.
www.larchmontchronicle.com ~ Entire Issue Online!
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July 2016
SECTION ONE
Community Comment
Calendar
By John Welborne
Embracing change This July issue of the Larchmont Chronicle includes our annual “Design for Living” section, and design is something about which our former Hancock Park neighbor, the late Leonard Hill, cared greatly. Design was an avocation in Len’s remodeling of his historic June St. home and in the art objects he collected. Design became a vocation when Len changed careers from TV producer to adaptive reuse real estate developer. The long version of our Page 1 story about Len Hill, available at larchmontchronicle.com, tells of screenwriter / playwright Wendy Kout’s description of herself and Len, both experiencing second careers, as “two repurposed people.” Len had warning of his death, and he got his affairs in order and used the time to reflect about family and life and his beloved city, among many other things. In our story about Len, his widow (and it’s hard to say that, of course), Dr. Patricia Gordon, recounts some of what Len said he had learned from his own varied experiences. She shares a lesson from Len that relates to “our ability to embrace change.” Len certainly did that, several times. I think we all should remember that the future always will be changing from the past. I thank Len for reminding us to “claim our future in such a way that it enriches other’s lives.”
Finally! The Repairs of Our Concrete Streets Are Beginning! After years of work and many promises from the City, Hancock Park is finally going to start having its concrete streets repaired. As part of our HPOZ Preservation Plan, the City included language that calls out our original, historic concrete streets as part of the important historical fabric that should be preserved. The City then turned around and claimed they meant no such thing and that asphalt was the way to go. This was greeted with astonishment by most Hancock Park residents and the Association’s Street Committee set to work. The dedicated efforts of the Committee, (David Cole, Tim Allyn, Joel Kozberg, Jon Vein, William Newby and Cindy Chvatal-Keane) and the election of our new Councilman, David Ryu, have resulted in a plan and funding to repair our streets. Councilman Ryu has earmarked $300,000 from his discretionary funds, and Mayor Eric Garcetti has dedicated another $750,000 from the city budget for these repairs. The first repairs will be completed by the first week in July at the intersection of Oakwood and Las Palmas. Not only will the concrete be repaired, but new sidewalk ramps will be installed. Unlike ornamental street lighting standards which Hancock Park residents paid for (much like the street light assessment in Windsor Square), street repair is the responsibility of the City. Now we’ll see our tax dollars at work! Thanks to the Street Committee and Councilman Ryu. Prevent Crime Don’t forget to keep you and your family safe by locking your house and car and activating your house alarm if you have one. If you are the victim of a crime, file a report with Officer Dave Cordova. Dave can take a crime report if you call his cell phone, 213-793-0650 or send him an email, 31646@ lapd.lacity.org with all the information, including your name and telephone number. Committees, HPOZ, Graffiti The Association’s committees are always looking for new members, so join a committee by visiting our website and be an active part of our community. The HPOZ Preservation Plan (http://www. preservation.lacity.org/hpoz/la/hancock-park) regulates our HPOZ. Contact our City Planner, Renata Dragland (renata.dragland@lacity. org), and use the online form (http://preservation.lacity.org/hpoz/ initial.screening.checklist) if you plan on making changes to the exterior of your house. Report graffiti sightings by calling 311 or at the City’s Anti-Graffiti Request System (http://anti-graffiti.lacity.org/ welcome.cfm?CFID=1007&CFTOKEN=411CDB4F-0FC3-4EE189DE58DCCB435538).
Adv.
Mon., July 4 — Independence Day. Wed., July 13 — Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council meeting, Ebell Club, 743 S. Lucerne Blvd., 7 p.m. greaterwilshire.org. Thurs., July 14 — Baseline Mansionization Ordinance draft consideration with Planning Commission, City Hall, Room 350, 8:30 a.m. Tues., July 19 — Taste of Farmers Market, 6333 W. Third St., 5 to 9 p.m. farmersmarketla.com. Thurs., July 21 — Metro update on Purple Line extension, Petersen Automotive Museum, 6060 Wilshire Blvd., 6 to 8 p.m. Thurs., July 28 — Delivery of the August issue of the Larchmont Chronicle. Tues., Aug. 2 — National
Larchmont Chronicle
'What is your pet’s favorite thing about you?' That's the question inquiring photographers Bridget Conrad and Brooke Stewart asked people along Larchmont Blvd.
Night Out Against Crime. Mon., Aug. 29 — Taste of Larchmont fundraiser for Hope-Net, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., hope-net.info.
“I’m patient.” Ludlow and Greg Factor Hancock Park
Letters to the Editor The Larchmont Chronicle welcomes Letters to the Editor. Mail them or e-mail to: letters@larchmontchronicle.com. We also receive reader feedback through our website and our Facebook page. Here are some recent comments: ••• Comments on the Los Angeles Conservancy guest writers’ “Los Angeles: growing up with character, density?” article on the front page in May: From Facebook: “Fix and upgrade the infrastructure FIRST. Update current basic services — water, power, roads (to accommodate MORE cars, not LESS), sewage, etc. We have a 100-year-old infrastructure built for a population one-third of the current size and these greedy idiots want
Larchmont Chronicle Founded in 1963 by Jane Gilman and Dawne P. Goodwin Publisher and Editor John H. Welborne Managing Editor Suzan Filipek Associate Editor Billy Taylor Contributing Editor Jane Gilman Advertising Director Pam Rudy Art Director Tom Hofer Classified and Circulation Manager Rachel Olivier Accounting Jill Miyamoto 606 N. Larchmont Blvd., #103
Los Angeles, CA 90004 323-462-2241 larchmontchronicle.com
more tax revenue for their pet projects.” Thomas U. Fenady “Or community character might involve more than just old buildings, but involve building housing at a rate that keeps it affordable for the average person.” Jeff Jacobberger ••• Comment on “Metro to start jet grouting on Wilshire Blvd.” in the May issue: From Facebook: “I’m disappointed we haven’t seen more pictures and videos of the construction. I’d really like to see jet grouting in action [and am] looking forward to more pictures of the construction so people are really aware of how it really is in these areas. In some cases, traffic isn’t as bad as you’d think and some cool stuff will happen (like jet grouting) that might be of interest, even to kids! And of course in other cases, not so much.” Christina Johnson ••• Comments on “Paramount final EIR completed; May 16 public hearing” in May: From Facebook: “All I saw in the proposal was #lightpollution.” Jim Kehl “Let me guess. They argued we need billboard revenue or we may have to relocate outside the city. Can we build anything without garish flashing billboards? The digital billboard on the Ritz Carlton building actually reflects off our refrigerator, three blocks away!” Phillip Estes ••• Comment on “Paramount Studios 25-year master plan is moving forward” from June: (Please turn to page 9)
“I spoil her and feed her most of my food.” Lucille (Lucy) and Bryanna Sun Hancock Park
“The fact that we bring him to work with us on Larchmont.” Carmelo with Amy and Chad Wootton Larchmont
“I always give him treats.” Poncho and Natalie Hancock Park
Larchmont Chronicle
July 2016
SECTION One
3
Larchmont leasing
GRAND CENTRAL MARKET set the stage for Mayor Garcetti and Chinese pianist Zhao Yinyin. Both played on a piano transported from the Kasimoff Piano store on Larchmont to accomodate Yinyin on his seven-day tour. During his trip he dined with the Kasimoffs at Vernetti on Larchmont, said Helga Kasimoff.
(Continued from page 1) former Larch-Mart Grocery, then Jon Douglas, and most recently Prudential Realty. A sign attached to construction screening says there soon will be two 1,000 sq. foot spaces for lease, and sources say there already may be a tenant for one of the spaces. A local resident and senior partner in the local office of one of the worldwide “Big Four” accounting firms commented when leaving Starbucks on a recent morning, “Well, it should be obvious why there are so many vacancies — the rents are too high.” Rhodes School of Music There is good news for one landlord, however. A longvacant upstairs space on the boulevard soon will be filled. In the fall of 2016, Rhodes School of Music will move south from the building it now shares with the Larchmont Chronicle and other tenants in the 600 North block. The school will move to #215, above Burger Lounge (in the space that, controversially, almost became a marijuana dispensary several years ago). The new school will have more practice rooms, better soundproofing, and other beneficial features, says owner David Rhodes. Even with these dozen vacancies, Larchmont Blvd. maintains its neighborhood charm with classic stores like Larchmont Wine & Cheese Shop and Chevalier’s Books. The boulevard also has ushered in a new era of boutique stores like Diptyque and Malin & Goetz. With all the vacancies on the boulevard, neighbors and patrons will have to wait to see how the beloved street continues to evolve.
Visit Larchmont Village shops for everything you need for your 4th of July picnics & parties Schools, churches and other non-profits, Contact Betsy@betsymalloy for your Sun., Oct. 23 Larchmont Family Fair application blank.
Real People, Real Stories
SECTION ONE
KIP'S Toyland founders. 11
AROUND THE TOWN 8 PETS of LARCHMONT 13 ENTERTAINMENT Theater Review 17 At the Movies 18 On the Menu 20 SCHOOL NEWS
21
SECTION TWO VIEW:
Design for Living Real Estate, Home & Garden
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REAL ESTATE SALES 2 HOME GROUND 7 DESIGN for LIVING pull out section D1–D8 MUSEUM ROW 14 LIBRARIES 15 HOME & GARDEN 16 BRIDGE MATTERS 18 PROFESSOR KNOW-IT-ALL 19 CLASSIFIED ADS 19
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JulY 2016
SECTION One
Larchmont Chronicle
Metro decking, speed humps underway The long-awaited installation of temporary street decking for the Metro Purple Council Line Extension subway staReport tion at Wilshire by and La Brea David E. Ryu started June 10. Portions of Wilshire Blvd. will be closed for 22 — now 20 — consecutive weekends to install decking above the new subway station site. Decking work will not be conducted during the regular workweek or during Fourth of
July and Labor Day weekends. The subway extension will be a great addition to our City and will offer more accessible transportation options. Learn more about the project and view the full schedule at: metro.net/projects/notices/la-brea-avenuedecking. Speed humps Due to permanent city budget cuts in 2009, the then-15year-old city “Speed Hump
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Program” was discontinued that year. The city Department of Transportation (DOT) issued an Oct. 2014 report that proposed a framework for reinstituting a slightly modified speed hump program. After the prior program was discontinued, the city received a large volume of inquiries from residents complaining of speeding and requesting speed humps. From July 2013 to March 2016, the city received over 819 speed hump requests, plus numerous pleas for the program to be reinstituted. A revised program was approved in City Council on June 10. Our office can help direct constituent inquires to the proper parties at DOT. LAPD Koban at The Grove I recently joined Rick Caruso in welcoming an LAPD “Koban,” a small communitybased police station, to The Grove. This local LAPD kiosk will allow children and residents to engage with police officers at The Grove. Based on a successful model in downtown’s Little Tokyo district, the LAPD Koban provides constituents an opportunity to meet the women and men who protect our neighborhoods every day. I hope that the success of this Koban will usher in a new era of more community-based policing initiatives in our neighborhoods, which will elevate the relationship between the public and law enforcement. Children saving money Also last month, I partnered with LAUSD Board President
SPEAKER of the California Assembly Anthony Rendon and Councilman Ryu share a laugh in the Tom Bradley Room at the top of City Hall. After the reception, the councilman introduced his longtime friend in the City Council Chambers.
Steve Zimmer as we introduced concurrent legislation instructing City departments and LAUSD staff to report back on the creation of a Children’s Savings Account (CSA) program for students in Los Angeles. A number of cities throughout the United States have already developed and
successfully executed similar programs, including San Francisco and St. Louis. Opening CSAs for kindergarteners can dramatically boost high school graduation, college attendance, and college completion rates. If passed, Los Angeles will become the largest city in the country to introduce such a program — potentially impacting the lives of millions of children. Orlando tragedy The terrible terrorist tragedy in Orlando last month shook the nation. This is a time to come together, show strength in solidarity and to remain vigilant as a community. I marched at the Los Angeles LGBT Pride Parade with my colleagues on the City Council, and, on June 13, I joined thousands on the steps of City Hall to honor the fallen victims. Please consider providing much-needed support to the victims of the Pulse tragedy and their families. To learn more, visit OneOrlando.org.
Chronicle Question for the Councilman Each month we send questions from our readers to our representative in City Hall. For this issue, however, no questions were received. Put your thinking caps on and send us your queries for the August issue to tips@larchmontchronicle.com.
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Single-family zones (Continued from page 1) and the city is on track to “These outreach meetings have both the amended BMO have been exceptionally helpful and the new zones in place by both in fine-tuning these new then, said Weber. single-family zones, which are An additional ICO still in draft form, and in iden- There is a proposal to City tifying which neighborhoods Council to adopt a second are interested in seeing a new ICO for five additional neighzone applied to their neigh- borhoods (Brookside, Sycaborhood, and which neighbor- more Square, Sherman Oaks, hoods prefer Wilshire Vista, to adhere to and Picfair Vilthe regula- The mayor is expected lage) to serve as tions that to sign ordinances a temporary set are being that would temporarily of regulations p r o p o s e d protect Brookside and for a maximum under the Sycamore Square. of two years. revised BaseOn June 28, the line Mansionization Ordinance Planning and Land Use Man(BMO),” said Craig Weber, agement Committee held a principal city planner. public hearing on the five new “One of the benefits of these ICOs after the Chronicle went new zones is that they allow to press. If approved by PLUM, us to address issues that are they were expected to go the locally important, but that next day to the full City Counmay not resonate with home- cil to be adopted. After City owners across the city.” Council adopts the ordinance, Local support the mayor has 10 days to sign, Stakeholders in both Larch- and it becomes effective immemont Heights and La BreaHancock neighborhoods have expressed support for the draft zone that would essentially push building mass toward the rear of a house, maintaining a prevailing single-story mass at the front, Weber said. “Not only can this help preserve the existing neighborhood character, but it can help incentivize thoughtful additions at the rear of a house verses complete tear-downs.” Additionally, he said, these same neighborhoods support mandating garages be located at the rear of the lot — “again in keeping with existing neighborhood character, and facilitating greater separation between houses,” Weber said. “La Brea-Hancock will definitely opt for a single-family zone since it seems that it can be fine-tuned to fit the needs of our neighborhood,” said Bob Eisele, vice-president of the La Brea-Hancock Homeowners Association. About 20 homeowners from La Brea-Hancock listened to options for their neighborhood at the June meeting. “The next step is for the city planners to draw up the singlefamily zone in response to our input and present it to us and the public at large,” said Eisle. BMO a concern The city BMO, passed in 2008 and which is being amended, is a concern also to La Brea-Hancock residents. “The BMO is still very important to us, both because it can save parts of the city that won’t have new singlefamily zones for a while (or ever), and because the BMO’s exemptions will also apply to the new zones,” said Eisele. The 15 neighborhoods that are involved in these discussions are protected by Interim Control Ordinances (ICOs) that expire in March of 2017,
JulY 2016
SECTION One
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Streets paved with concrete in Hancock Park
PRESIDENT of the Hancock Park Homeowners Assoc., est. 1948, Cindy Chvatal-Keane, with Bureau of Street Services director Nazario Sauceda, Public Works Commission president Kevin James (speaking) and Councilman David Ryu at the Las Palmas and Oakwood avenues pavementbreaking ceremony. The photo at right shows work on sidewalks and ramps.
LARCHMONT CHRONICLE the revised BMO.” It was diately, said Tom Rothmann, for also originally envisioned that principal city planner. July 2015 Planners originally envi- the five newer ICO areas would sioned that each of the origi- only get the revised BMO. nal 15 neighborhoods would “However, as the prospect of choose one of the single-family re-zoning all 15 of those original zones, said Weber. “However, neighborhoods to a new zone many are stating a preference is becoming lighter (i.e. fewer
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neighborhoods), we are exploring the possibility of providing new zones to the five newer ICO areas where desired.” Hearings are expected to take place in late summer. The Planning Commission is set to consider the draft BMO Thurs., July 14.
JulY 2016
SECTION One
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By Bridget Conrad Haas and Co Hair Design, a staple of the Larchmont neighborhood for the past 35 years, hosted an event last month for Great Lengths for Cancer. More than 10 girls showed up to donate hair for the charity. The locks are used in wigs given to pediatric patients in Israel through the nonprofit, Zichron Menchem. The event was tailored to make donors feel special with full salon treatment from hairstyling and accessories to pedicures and manicures. “We wanted to do something where there was a direct connection between them actually doing something to help people similar in ages that are less fortunate,” said Jenny Geurvitz, event coordinator. The event certainly allowed
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the girls donating to feel the connection to the cause and was a great success. There is a second event in November. For more information, email ester@zichron.org.
Perverse cuts glare without heavy price tag
By Brooke Stewart Perverse, a chic sunglasses boutique, is the newest addition to Larchmont Blvd. Founded by Fremont Place resident and NYX Cosmetics creator and CEO, Toni Ko, Perverse follows a business model of providing a quality product at an affordable price. The store itself exudes luxury with a sleek, all-white interior. However, the sunglasses are only priced at $40-$70. The brand’s ethos is playful, chic and accessible. The store encourages customers to try on as many pairs as they like — to experiment with their fashion choices. Their philosophy is to have a pair of sunglasses for every outfit; just as with pairs of shoes. Larchmont is Perverse’s first of five stores to open in Los Angeles (their downtown flagship store opened June 30). “We couldn’t have picked a better place,” says shop assistant Ashley of Larchmont Village. The neighborhood has been “really receptive” to the new store with welcoming neighbors and many local customers, says Ashley. With this inviting attitude, it’s no wonder that Ko is currently deepening her neighborhood roots by remodeling her house in Fremont Place.
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JulY 2016
Eli Broad
(Continued from page 1) the mass media. In response to a question from the Chronicle, Broad said he particularly appreciates the way in which Sherman always is moving forward with her art and always is doing the unexpected. He said he likes the way she not only represents images of today but also goes back in time and questions the representation of images from hundreds of years ago. In the press preview for the exhibit, Founding Director of The Broad, Joanne Heyler, explained that the museum has been operating at capacity during the nine months since its opening. She said of The Broad’s standby ticket line that it has become such a Los Angeles phenomenon that “it has its own Twitter account,” twitter.com/thebroadstandby. This exhibit is a wonderful collection of Sherman’s work and is well worth the short
CINDY SHERMAN Imitation of Life — entry to the exhibit. Photo by Ben Gibbs, courtesy of The Broad
drive from Larchmont to Bunker Hill, or you can take Metro. In his interview with the Chronicle, Broad commented on how Grand Ave. has so much to discover, including other great museums, Walt Disney Concert Hall, the rest of the Music Center, plus Colburn Hall and dining at some of the best restaurants in the city. The new exhibit features 120 works by Sherman. It
was organized by guest curator Philipp Kaiser and will be open through October 2. It is the first exhibit at The Broad to have an admission fee, which is $12. Weekends are sold out through July. For more information and to purchase advance tickets, visit thebroad.org. The “standby” Twitter account indicates there are many times when there is a short, or no, wait in the separate Cindy Sherman standby ticket line. Bridget Conrad graduated from the Univ. of Delaware in May.
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JulY 2016
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Larchmont Chronicle
ET-94, Disney Silly Symphonies, Beastly Ball drew locals marched behind a second line into the dinner tent. Jungle met Carnival with a spectacular Panamanian-style feast under a lush tropical forest canopy. The rhythm of Carnival and dancers laden with feathers and sequins brought partygoers to the dance floor. The climax of the event was the midnight send-off of ET-94. Guests followed the tank through the streets of Marina del Rey on its way to Exposition Park and the California Science Center in Los Angeles. Among the generous and sparkling were Margo and
Around the Town with
Patty Hill Michael O’Connell, Cindy Chvatal-Keane and John Keane, Delores and Ben-Oliver Kerr, their son Mark Kerr, their daughter Karen James and their granddaughter Jade James. Also celebrating ET-94 were
Mary and Kevin O’Connell, Melanie and Steve Guise and Melba and Aubrey Provost. Event proceeds added dollars to the $250 million “EndeavourLA Campaign” to advance STEM learning opportunities and to build an iconic destination to house the Space Shuttle at the Science Center. ••• Guffaws, chortles and giggles erupted from some 1,200 guests at “LACO @ the Movies: An Evening of Disney Silly Symphonies” held at the historic Orpheum Theatre in downtown Los Angeles on June 4. Seven classic animated Walt Disney Studios Silly Symphony shorts featured orchestral scores performed live by the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra. Funds raised from the magical event, which included a post-performance supper for donors, benefit LACO’s education and concert programs. Among the minions were: “House Of Cards” composer Jeff Beal and his wife, Soprano Joan Beal, six-time Emmy Awardwinning composer Mark Watters, who served as conductor for the evening, and LACO Executive Director Scott Harrison. ••• More than 700 attendees partied under the stars at the Los Angeles Zoo on June 11 when the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA) 46th annual Beastly Ball celebrated the Zoo’s essential work and honored wildlife supporters and GLAZA donors Patricia and Stanley Silver. The Tom Mankiewicz Leadership Award was bestowed upon actor / environmentalist Ed Begley, Jr. Guests attired in “safari casual” style strolled through the Zoo after hours, watching feedings, chatting with keepers, and viewing small Zoo residents up close. (Please turn to page 22)
ET-94 DWARFS Margo and Michael O’Connell at California Science Center Discovery Ball. Photo by Mike Garakian
FAMILY PHOTO: Mark Kerr, Karen James, Jade James, Delores and Ben Oliver Kerr at Discovery Ball. Photo by Mike Garakian
BEASTLY VIPS: Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association co-chair Rich Lichtenstein and GLAZA president Connie Morgan pose with Mayor Eric Garcetti and former District Attorney Gil Garcetti. Photo by Jamie Pham
GLAZA trustee Jay Sonbolian and his wife Jenny with their children, Eva and Noah, at the Zoo for the Beastly Ball. Photo by Jamie Pham
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This year’s California Science Center Discovery Ball drew 800 revelers to a pier in Marina del Rey in May to celebrate the grand arrival by barge of External Tank (ET)94, the mega tonic fuel container that will complete the center’s Endeavour Space Shuttle exhibit. “Laissez les Bons Temps Rouler!” kicked off festivities in homage to the tank’s ocean voyage from New Orleans through the Panama Canal. Enjoying cocktails, jazz and Cajun fare, guests waved parasols, masks and handkerchiefs as they
Larchmont Chronicle
JulY 2016
Local judge wins reelection to Superior Court Incumbent Judge James A. Kaddo won reelection to the Superior Court last month, taking more than 76 percent of the vote. A Larchmont resident for five decades, Kaddo has been on the bench for the past 25 years. He went to U.C. Berkeley as an undergraduate and studied law at USC. CHEVALIER'S BOOKS co-owner Bert Deixler, right, “I am grateful to all of my supportintroduces interviewer (law professor and former "Los ers and my campaign team at Cerrell Angeles Times" writer) Henry Weinstein, center, and Associates,” Judge Kaddo told the guest speaker, Geoffrey Cowan, to discuss Cowan's Chronicle. He also wanted to specifinew book, "Let the People Rule; Theodore Roosevelt cally thank his family, which includand the Birth of the Presidential Primary." ed his children and grandchildren, for “pitching in,” as well as his friends and col- across America. leagues on and off the bench who helped his The group purchased the building at 4800 Wilshire Blvd. to create “the first Lebanese campaign glide to victory. American cultural center in Los Angeles,” House of Lebanon Born in Lebanon, Kaddo is an active leader in called the House of Lebanon. the local Lebanese-American community. He is When asked about progress being made a founding member and chairman of the board to the Brookside facility, Kaddo says work is of the Lebanese American Foundation, an orga- underway with city permits granted and connization dedicated to advancing the country’s struction bids coming in: “We hope to have the culture and tradition in both Los Angeles and work done by December,” he said.
Celebrity carrier We always knew he was special as we waited for him to bring our packages, bills and checks. In June, “LA Weekly” published “How Carl the Mailman Became Larchmont Village’s Biggest Celebrity.” The writer, Christina McDowell, a resident of upper Larchmont, reminded us how special Carl Mitchell, mail carrier extraordinaire, really is. As McDowell pointed out, Carl has trod the 500 and 600 blocks of Larchmont, Lucerne, Gower and Beachwood for the past 40 years. That’s four decades of pounding the sidewalks. When he was out for knee surgery, he was sorely missed. — Rachel Olivier
LETTERS
(Continued from page 2) From Facebook: “Thank you for covering the process. Many steps, many concerns.” Karen Joseph Gilman ••• Comment on “Hancock Park leader Leonard Hill dead at 68” online story June/July 2016: From larchmontchronicle. com: “A true gentleman, class act and passionate supporter not just of Hancock Park but the City of Los Angeles! He will be missed.” Erik Storey From Facebook: “This captures the essence of Len Hill.” Jack Humphreville
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The Best and the Brightest at Wilshire Rotary Get in the habit of expanding your mind and enriching your soul at Wilshire Rotary Club. We feature top-notch speakers at our weekly lunch meetings. Everyone is welcome. Join us Wednesdays from 12 noon to 1:30 p.m. at the elegant and historic Ebell of Los Angeles. Lunch is $25 and there is plenty of free parking. See you there!
President Ken Scott
Dynamic Speaker Series for July July 8 – No meeting Observance of 4th of July July 13 – Tony Brown Founder & Exec Director, Heart of LA (HOLA)
July 20 – TBD July 27 – Richard Pink Owner & Family Member of LA Icon Pink’s Hot Dogs
www.wilshirerotary.org
facebook.com/wilshirerotary
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Larchmont Chronicle
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Drought Reminders As the summer heats up, it’s essential to remember that the drought is not over. Parts of Northern California may have had some rain, but here in Southern California, we are still extremely dry. Let’s all keep doing our part by following city water restrictions. Here are some important reminders: Never on Sunday? If your address is an even number, you are allowed to water only on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. If your address is an odd number, your days are Monday, Wednesday and Friday. You may not water between 9 AM and 5 PM. Watering in the heat of the day causes at least half of the water to simply evaporate. You’re wasting our precious water and your money! Don’t let water run off into the gutters. It’s another huge waste of water, and it also pollutes the ocean. Check for Leaks Check for leaks and broken sprinkler heads regularly. Don’t assume someone else, such as a gardener, will take care of this. It’s the homeowner’s responsibility. If you have an old sprinkler system, modernize it! An up-to-date timer clock and new sprinkler heads (or drip systems) will save you time, money and a lot of water. Protect the Trees Trees need extra care during this dry period. Our incredibly valuable mature trees create the signature, shady look of our Windsor Square neighborhood. But notice how many of our parkway trees are struggling. Remember, they have not had their usual thirst-quenching rains for the past five winters. And these days many people are either re-landscaping their parkways with low-water plants or simply not irrigating that strip of land. Thoughtful, drought-tolerant gardens are great, but don’t forget the trees! Give your parkway trees additional long, slow drinks from a soaker hose monthly. Water those trees even if your house is under construction and the sprinklers are not functioning—and demand that any nearby developers water the parkway trees on their sites too! The developers will be long gone when the trees die in a year or two, but our neighborhood will be the worse for it. Be Coyote-Alert Finally, watch out for coyotes. The drought has been increasing their numbers in the neighborhood, as they seek food, water and cool retreats. Don’t make your yard attractive to them: keep small pets—and their food bowls—under supervision.
Wilshire Division crime reports were not available by press time.
Larchmont Bungalow due back in court
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Go to the website bewaterwise.com for more tips on saving water— and money. There are still rebates and give-aways available for certain water-saving products, such as irrigation control systems and low-flow sprinkler heads. There is also a lot of information on low-water plants, as well as links to classes on how to design with them. The drought is everyone’s problem; working together, we can find solutions. The Windsor Square Association, an all-volunteer group of residents from 1100 households between Beverly and Wilshire and Van Ness and Arden, works to preserve and enhance our beautiful neighborhood. Join with us! Drop us a line at 157 N. Larchmont Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90004, or visit our website at windsorsquare.org. ADV.
OLYMPIC DIVISION ROBBERY: Two women who were sitting in their parked car at the corner of S. Norton Ave. and W. 5th St. were approached by three suspects (two of whom were armed with handguns) demanding they get out of the car at 4:10 a.m. on June 7. The passenger got out and threw her purse to the ground, but the driver quickly sped away leaving her friend behind. The suspects grabbed the purse and fled. BURGLARY: At the same time and date as the above crime (June 7 at 4:10 a.m.), a suspect entered a residence in an attempted burglary on the 100 block of S. Windsor Blvd. The suspect used an unlocked door to access a detached garage and then entered a recreational room before fleeing the location. GRAND THEFT AUTO: A 2009 silver Infinity FX3 was stolen while parked on the 400 block of Westminster Ave. between May 30 at 9 p.m. and May 31 at 7 a.m.
A hearing in Los Angeles Superior Court is set for the Larchmont Bungalow on Wed., Aug. 3 to review owner Albert Mizrahi’s progress in complying with the terms of his guilty plea, including accounting for payments he owes the city. “The Larchmont Bungalow plead to three counts and is sentenced to diversion; the [business] needs to show proof of progress toward compliance and payment of investigative costs,” said Rob Wilcox, director community outreach, City Attorney’s office. Mizrahi agreed to the plea in exchange for probation and the court suspended his sentencing for 18 months. Besides bringing the restaurant into compliance with city zoning codes — removing tables and chairs — Mizrahi agreed to pay costs incurred to investigate and prosecute the case.
SHOPPERS at The Grove can now interact with the Los Angeles Police Department at a small community station located inside the mall. The building, known as a "koban" (a Japanese word for small police stations), is shown here behind Rick Caruso, assistant chief Beatrice Germala and City Councilman David Ryu at the June 13 unveiling.
Greetings to all Stakeholders of the Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council! Greater Wilshire is bounded (approximately) by La Brea Avenue on the west, Olympic Boulevard on the south, Western Avenue and Manhattan Place on the east, and Melrose Avenue to Wilcox Avenue to Willoughby Avenue on the north. For the exact GWNC exterior boundaries, plus the boundaries of the 15 Geographic Areas that comprise GWNC, plus all the most current GWNC information, visit our website at greaterwilshire.org. All GWNC meetings are open to the public, and the meeting times and locations are published on the website under Meeting Schedules. If you have an item you would like placed on a meeting agenda, please contact info@ greaterwilshire.org or (424) 901-1409, at least two weeks before the meeting. Meeting agendas are posted on the GWNC website and elsewhere in the Greater Wilshire community at least 72 business hours before our meetings. Board of Directors meetings: Second Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. Ebell of Los Angeles; Dining Room 743 S. Lucerne Blvd., 90005 Land Use Committee meetings: Fourth Tuesdays, 6:30 p.m. Wilshire United Methodist Church; Assembly Room 4350 Wilshire Blvd., 90005 Outreach Committee meetings: Last Saturdays, 9:00 a.m. Bricks & Scones Cafe 403 N. Larchmont Blvd., 90004 Sustainability Committee meetings: Quarterly (see website for next meeting) Wilshire United Methodist Church; Youth Chapel 4350 Wilshire Blvd., 90005 Transportation Committee meetings: First Mondays of even-numbered months, 7:00 p.m. Wilshire United Methodist Church; Parsonage 4350 Wilshire Blvd., 90005
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Larchmont Chronicle
JulY 2016
Hancock Park leader: Len Hill
(Continued from page 1) preservationist. He believed in the value and power of historic places and was an incredibly articulate spokesperson for the cause. On a personal level, Len took great joy in his historic home in Hancock Park — the fabulous Casa de las Campanas — and worked with neighbors to get Hancock Park designated a Historic Preservation Overlay Zone (HPOZ).” Hill’s home received the Windsor Square-Hancock Park Historical Society’s Landmark Award #3 in 1978, the first year such awards were bestowed. In 1981, La Casa de las Campanas became City of Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument #239. It is a large house with 37 rooms on a double lot overlooking the Wilshire Country Club. The original owner’s daughter, Lucille Mead Lamb, guided architect Lester G. Scherer in creating the multi-level house with its three-story bell tower
The
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Essential Visuals Your business has a story to tell about its products and/or services. Print advertising is the ART of telling that story. A compelling photo or graphic grabs the reader’s attention and immediately brings interest and focus to your “ad story.” Use interesting, enticing and compelling visuals that will evoke a strong positive psychological response in your reader. Simple, powerful images communicate your business “story” best. Your logo and fonts assign an image that the reader will relate to and from which it will be recognized in the reader’s mind when next seen. These are all part of the ART of telling your business “story” and branding your business. The human mind reads a picture quicker than words. Words equal work. Too many words in your ad “story” means “work” to the reader … something the human psyche avoids. Make reading your ad impactful and EASY to read by stating only the essentials and using simple, stylish, yet strong visuals.
Contact Pam at The Larchmont Chronicle 323-462-2241 ext. 11
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containing four large bells. Hill’s interest in preserving residential neighborhoods led him to become a founding member of a nonprofit organization of concerned citizens devoted to the protection of those portions of our cities dedicated to single-family homes. Margo Leonetti O’Connell of Hancock Park said of Hill: “Len was co-founder and president of LRNA (League of Residential Neighborhood Advocates) for more than 10 years until he was first diagnosed with cancer. He was one of the most articulate men I know. He could explain an issue and his point of view succinctly and clearly so you could understand. He was a man of principle and thought everyone, no matter your creed, should abide by the rules.” Leonard Franklin Hill was born on October 11, 1947, at Cedars of Lebanon Hospital, the son of Herbert and Edith Hill. A 1965 graduate of University High School, Hill received a bachelor of arts degree (summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa) from Yale University in 1969, followed by a masters in education and history from Stanford. Television producer Hill already had enjoyed a varied and successful 16-year career in television when, in 1988, he saw changes in the business and founded and chaired the independent television distribution company Allied Communications Inc. (ACI). Hancock Park and Ojai resident Jamie Bennett said of Hill in those years: “Len created the company/consortium, ACI, from his TV producer peers ... an amazing feat to bring together eight alpha male competitors into a common cause. They struggled with Len, the first among equals and the smartest guy in the room ... lovingly referring to him as the company’s George Washington ... its founder. As chair, he was my boss for five years, a demanding boss ... but very loyal and generous. We traveled internationally and had great fun together on those trips. I will miss him ... he was a great teacher.” Hill’s television production offices for many years were on Larchmont Blvd. and, later, in a building he purchased on Wilshire Blvd. next to the entrance to Fremont Place. Real estate developer In 2001, Hill made a career change. He and Yuval BarZemer joined with Arts District pioneer Paul Solomon, who had formed Linear City, a real estate redevelopment company. Focused on the adaptive repurposing of underutilized commercial buildings into architecturally distinctive mixed-use lofts, Linear City (Please turn to page 12)
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Kip’s Toyland matriarch dies after husband Gertrude “Gerta” Kipper passed away in June at the age of 97 — six weeks after her husband, Irvin “Kip” Kipper — of a “broken heart,” her family said. The husband and wife duo founded Kip’s Toyland at the Original Farmers Market; it is the oldest toy store in Los Angeles. They were married for 77 years. Gertrude was born in Ohio in 1919, but moved to Los Angeles with her family in 1929, where she graduated from Los Angeles High School. Irvin and Gertrude were married as teenagers in 1939, before Irvin left to serve as a
ing meals out of a World War II B-17 can,” adding, “He bomber pilot. On had always been his 26th combat fascinated by the mission, Irvin was mechanical holishot down over day displays in Italy and spent the department eight months in a store windows, so POW camp. he got the idea to After he open a toy store.” returned to Los Gertrude Angeles, the couand Irvin spent ple focused on a more playful MARRIED for 77 years, the next seven future by opening Gertrude and Irvin Kipper. decades working side-by-side in the shop. Even Kip’s Toyland. In an interview with the in their twilight years, the two Chronicle last year, Irvin’s made weekly visits to the store son, Don Kipper, said of his until Irvin died in April at 99 father: “My dad was done eat- years old.
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Len Hill
(Continued from page 11) won numerous awards for projects such as the Biscuit Company Lofts, The Toy Factory Lofts, Seventh + Bridge, the Traction Lofts and The Elysian. A final project Hill’s final Linear City project with Bar-Zemer was the re-purposing of the former Metropolitan Water District headquarters on Sunset Blvd, designed in 1960 by former Hancock Park resident and architect, William L. Pereira, FAIA. The building was renamed The Elysian and is now full of apartment tenants. Hill said of that and his other projects and of his city in a “Planning Report” interview in 2014: “We’ve created a legacy that is manifest in the transformation of blight into beauty, of neglect into neighborhood.”
Board member, philanthropist Perhaps it is the word “neighborhood” for which Len Hill will be most remembered. Hill’s “neighborhood” is not just Hancock Park and environs, but the Downtown Arts District and the city as a whole. Reported in March of 2016 was his donation of $1.9 million for the creation of a 1.4-acre “Arts Park” under the new Sixth St. Bridge, complete with a stage and three years of funding for programming. At the time of the donation, Hill told the “Downtown News:” “I hope to give back to the city that gave me so much.” Before he died, in addition to funding what will become the Leonard Hill Arts Park, Hill established the Leonard Hill Foundation that will provide grants to benefit less fortunate people in Los Angeles.
Larchmont Chronicle
LA CASA DE LAS CAMPANAS in Hancock Park, restored by Len Hill, received many accolades.
These grants are expected to equal about $40 million in coming years. Hill is survived by his wife, Dr. Patricia Gordon, and her three children, Lindsey, Allie and Ben, as well as Lindsey’s husband Rick and Allie’s husband Jeremy, and grand-
change. I think he would want all of us to take this moment in our lives to claim our future in such a way that it enriches other’s lives. This is the charge he has given to me and to so many of you.” The full story is available at: larchmontchroncle.com.
daughters Tessa and Annie. Hill also is survived by his brothers, Andrew and Richard and their families. Dr. Gordon said of her husband the morning that he died: “What I believe Len would like to leave behind for us is a lesson in our ability to embrace
Save the Date Monday, August 29 6 to 9 p.m.
“Taste of Larchmont Village” Kickoff for Hope-Net Enjoy visiting Larchmont’s eateries to sample food while raising funds for Hope-Net’s 13 food pantries.
For information go to hope-net.info
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Larchmont Chronicle
JulY 2016
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pets of larchmont No need to ‘sit,’ ‘stay’ for these portraits
THERAPY DOG Bruno makes his rounds at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.
Tale of an abandoned dog turned into a therapy pet By Rachel Olivier Bruno, a seven-year-old American Staffordshire-mix, sat patiently as the young girl practiced bending and reaching for him. A therapy pet through the Amerman Family Foundation Dog Therapy Program at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA), Bruno was helping the physical therapist motivate the 13-year-old patient through her poststroke rehabilitation exercises. One of several therapy dogs at CHLA, he helps children cope with pain, encourage them in their rehab and distract them during long and uncomfortable procedures. Bruno’s journey started as a photograph of a strange, disheveled, then four-yearold, who had been abandoned and was awaiting adoption at North Central Animal Shelter. When Mikka Johnson saw his picture, however, she thought she saw something more. She clicked on the YouTube link for Bruno, and soon he was coming home to Car-
thay Circle to live with her and her husband Tim. “After bonding and taking great obedience classes at The Urban Pet, he was accepted into the Pet Partners Association,” Johnson said. She and Tim also had to take a handler’s course and an exam through Pet Partners. Two to three times a month the Johnson family visits patients at CHLA, where parents have told them their child has smiled for the first time in months after interacting with Bruno. “He has a knack for making people happy,” Mikka said. Abandoned for whatever reason, Bruno has since found a niche comforting others at CHLA, as well as a forever home in Carthay Circle. For information on dog training classes at The Urban Pet, visit theurbanpet.net or call 323-933-2100. For information on the Amerman Dog Therapy Program, go to chla.org or call 323-3617853.
Our pets are parts of our families, and sometimes are our favorite members! Artist Martin Bruinsma knows this well and translates that unconditional love and affection of the owner-companion into portraits that reflect the personality of the pet. Bruinsma is an Art Center College of Design graduate. Art Center, before moving to Pasadena, was in Hancock Park, in the buildings on Third Street where Yavneh Hebrew Academy is now. Bruinsma works mostly in oils and charcoal in a variety of sizes to suit the customer. He employs photographs supplied to him, or he can photograph anyone’s best friend in whatever setting is requested, including at his Inglewood
ARTIST Martin Bruinsma in his La Brea Ave. studio with his portraits of Marlowe, in charcoal, and Charlie, in oil.
studio on La Brea Ave. that doubles as a photo workshop when need be. Portraits are not limited to canines — any pet makes a great subject, according to the artist.
Bruinsma also is a graphic designer whose ads have appeared in the Larchmont Chronicle. To reach him, call 323-898-8892 or go to martinbruinsma.com.
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Join us and help make L.A. a no-kill city. Promotion also applies at the Los Angeles Animal Services shelters. For more info visit laanimalservices.com.
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Larchmont Chronicle
pets of larchmont
Walk and feed your dog before dusk when fireworks begin family enjoy the holiday: Do keep a collar and ID tag on your dog. Make sure your dog is microchipped and contact details are up-to-date;
this ensures you are reunited more quickly if your dog goes missing. More pets go missing on the 4th of July than any other time of the year.
Do acclimatize your dog to noises prior to the big night. There are many CDs on the market that introduce your dog to potentially disturbing noises in a controlled manner. Do make a safe den for your pet to retreat to if he feels scared. Alternatively, let him hide under furniture and include an old, unwashed piece of clothing, so he can be comforted by your scent. Do distract your dog by having a TV or radio switched on. Do keep to routines and behave normally, as your dog picks up on odd behavior. Being calm, happy and cheerful sends positive signals to your dog. Reward calm behavior with treats or toys. Do check where and when fireworks are being held. One usually can count on hearing fireworks around 9 p.m. at the Wilshire Country Club on July 4. Do feed your dog before you expect any disturbances. Once the fireworks start, your dog may be too anxious to eat. Do walk your dog before dusk. It may be some time before it’s safe to go outside. Shut all doors and windows, and draw the curtains. This will block out scary flashes and reduce the noise level of fireworks. Block off cat flaps
KITTENS are waiting to find a forever home with you.
Take two — they’re small Kitten season is in full swing at all six of the City of Los Angeles Animal Services shelters, where kittens of all kinds are waiting to find a forever home. Adoption fees cover vaccinations, microchipping and spaying or neutering. To learn more, visit laanimalservices.com or call 888452-7381.
to stop pets escaping. Shut your dog safely in a room before opening the front door. Don’t take your dog to a fireworks display. Even if your dog does not bark or whimper, he or she may not be happy. Excessive yawning and panting can indicate stress. Don’t forget to top up the water bowl. Anxious dogs pant more and get thirsty. Don’t tie your dog up outside, or assume your garden is escape proof, while fireworks are being set off. If your dog needs to go out, keep him on a leash just in case. Don’t try to force your dog to face his fears — he’ll just become more frightened. Don’t yell at your dog! This only distresses your pet. There are other things to try, says Dr. White. Thundershirts apply pressure and are akin to swaddling an infant, phermone therapy and antianxiety medication may help.
‘Wine, Whiskers’ for Animal Rescue Baseball legend Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) will host vintners and restaurants at The Beverly Hills Hotel, 9641 Sunset Blvd., on Sun., July 31 from 5 to 8 p.m. ARF saves dogs and cats who have run out of time at public shelters. According to its website, “ARF strives to create a world where every loving dog and cat has a home, where every lonely person has a companion animal, and where children learn to care.” Co-founded by Elaine and Tony La Russa in 1991, the nonprofit is rated four stars with Charity Navigator. The cost is $100 per person. Visit arflife.org.
Foster a shelter pet over the 4th Los Angeles Animal Services is asking for volunteers to foster shelter pets over the 4th of July weekend. This creates space for lost animals who end up in the shelter after being scared by fireworks. Visit laanimalservices.com.
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Do fireworks send Rover running for cover? If so, here are some tips from Dr. White at the Hancock Park Veterinary Clinic to help the whole
Larchmont Chronicle
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pets of larchmont
Proudly we give you Pets of Larchmont Each year we reach out to readers to send a photo of their favorite pet to grace our special Pets of Larchmont section. We are always impressed with the range of submissions, from the comic to the regal. This month’s entries were no exception.
LUCKY and Sandy Bruno live on S. Cloverdale Ave.
HENRI lives on N. Cahuenga Blvd. with Marc Jackson and dog brother George Berkeley.
SEAMUS P. HENRY, a 15year old yellow-naped Amazon lives with Peg and Patrick Henry on Mullen Ave. BEAU lives on Beachwood Dr. with Adrienne Cole.
HEIDI & JOSIE live on Lucerne with Robin Jameson, who couldn’t pick a favorite.
FELIX came home with Pam Rudy and Pierre Debbaudt of S. Gramercy Pl. for the holidays.
SOPHIE, a six-year-old red dapple long-haired Dachshund, and Suzie Tepper-Goodman live on S. Plymouth.
CODY lives with Adrian on Gower.
GABRIEL, in a King Tut-inspired headdress, lives with Marc Cohen on Rossmore Ave.
MISSY lives with Damian and David Calmett on S. Van Ness Ave.
THAI is a handful says Susan Einstein, N. Gower St.
Dogs • Cats • Birds Reptiles • Exotics
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Larchmont Chronicle’s
Women of Larchmont 2016 will publish on July 28th.
All Women of Accomplishment, as well as women-oriented businesses, call Pam Rudy by July 11 to reserve your space in this annual issue! 323-462-2241 ext. 11 pam@larchmontchronicle.com
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TEDDY, who lives on Larchmont, was a Christmas surprise for Rachel Olivier.
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Trials and tribulations of trying to buy a discounted TAP Card By Brooke Stewart Buying a Metro TAP Card is simple. All you have to do is visit a Metro station and follow the instructions at an automated ticket machine. But buying a TAP Card with a discounted rate requires dealing with some bureaucracy. When buying the card, (which has a built-in electronic chip) at a machine, you purchase one with a stored value amount ($20, $40, etc.) or one for a set amount of time (7 days or 30 days). A 30-day pass can be quite expensive, up to a total of $100. For the everyday commuter this adds up. Luckily for Los Angeles residents, there are discounted TAP Cards available for seniors, college and vocational students, and students K-12. Each of these
only be paying $43. Because there is no way to verify my student status at the Metro station, getting a discounted TAP Card requires mailing in an application. After further research, I learned that I am not able to get a college TAP Card because I do not go to a college in Los Angeles County. I ended up purchasing a reg-
ular TAP Card because I like taking the bus to work. It saves me money that I would have to pay at a parking meter, and it is better for the environment. Also, with the Purple Line subway construction on Wilshire, taking the bus is an attractive alternative to sitting in traffic. What I’ve learned from this endeavor is that getting a
TAP Card for a short period of time is easy for everyone, but for regular commuters, discounts are essential. After dealing with the bureaucracy that discount card applications require, finally getting a year-long TAP Card would be well worth it. For more information about metro fares visit metro.net/riding/fares
Metro TAP CARD vending machines are accessible and easy to use.
discounted TAP Cards is valid for one year. As I’ve come back home to Los Angeles for the summer from college, I was hoping to get a reduced-fare TAP Card for students. Instead of paying $100 for 30 days I would
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(Continued from page 1) closures, June 10-13, this reporter took the Metro Local 20 bus to see how the closures would affect the route and traffic. The Metro Local 20 and the Rapid 720 buses traditionally go east and west on Wilshire. However, for the first weekend of work, the buses were rerouted from Wilshire to Fairfax, to Third St., and then to La Brea because of the construction. The detours clearly make the trip longer than usual, yet as I was riding the bus, I noticed that it was the congested traffic in non-bus lanes below me that seemed much worse than the bus reroute. Car traffic has been rerouted along La Brea, Sixth and Fairfax for the first phase of construction, and those streets have been extremely congested. I have seen it from the bus and
Wilshire Blvd. excavation and street decking work between La Brea Ave. and Detroit St. on the first of 22 weekends.
experienced it as a driver. What normally is a five-minute drive from Curson Ave. to La Brea Ave. on Sixth St. took me twenty minutes the first Sunday. The Purple Line extension is not expected to be operational until 2023. For now, the area around Sixth and La Brea will be congested during summer weekends. This commuter’s sugges-
tion – avoid Sixth if you can. For more information about the closures, visit metro.net/ projects/westside. Maps of all the closures are on the home page (upper right corner) of larchmontchronicle.com. Brooke Stewart, Park La Brea, will be a junior in the fall at the University of St. Andrews, Scotland.
Brain Healthy Social Events Come and enjoy fun times with friends
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Brain Health Happy Hour Mingle with friends and make new acquaintances while you enjoy your favorite libation.
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Enlightening look on Muslims in America; update of a classic Disgraced by Ayad Akhtar won the 2013 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and is a fascinating look at Muslims in America. Amir (Hari Dhillon) is identified as a Muslim-raised apostate. A successful lawyer, he and his artist wife Emily (Emily Swallow), who focuses her art on Islamic influences, live in an upscale New York apartment. Emily and family friend Abe (Behzad Debu) urge Amir to participate in the trial of an arrested Imam, which leads to disastrous circumstances for Amir. At a dinner party with Emily’s Jewish art dealer Isaac (J Anthony Crane) and his wife Jory (Karen Pittman) (who is a lawyer in Amir’s firm), tension builds as discussion becomes intense and visceral. Director Kimberly Senior helms this excellent cast with pace and style. This is not only great theater, but an enlightening look at a different point of view of current events today. Through Sun., July 17, Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., 213-628-2772, marktaperforum.com. 4 Stars • • •
Although this production of Hedda Gabler by Henrik Ibsen, in a version by Andrew Upton, is set in the 1920’s, the play was originally written in 1890 when the New Woman was emerging in Norway. Note: there are alternating casts in all the roles; scheduling is available on the internet. Hedda (Jaimi Paige) is restless and yearns to be free of her marriage to academic Jorgen Tesman (Adrian LaTourelle). Being a mother and obedient wife is anathema to her. But it doesn’t stop her from controlling those around her which eventually leads to tragedy. Ms Paige gives a layered, insightful performance as Hedda, which makes the ending of the play surprising and heartbreaking. Director Steven Robman has found new prescience for this revered play: “What keeps a person from being able to shape or control his or her life? A good question — and the reason why I want to direct this play,” says Robman. He has succeeded in bringing us a fresh contemporary version of a classic work. Through Sun., July 17. The
Giveaways, fireworks among Dodgers' family-friendly summer events By Bridget Conrad For its 2016 baseball season, Dodger Stadium created numerous new reasons to visit the ballpark (if a Dodger Dog is not reason enough). July and August feature events for kids and families, giveaways and concerts. Every Friday night after the end of the game, the stadium has a nice fireworks display which is fun for all. Additionally, if you head to the stadium for your July 4 celebrations, there will be an Independence Day fireworks display. The stadium also has events such as a movie nights featuring “Top Gun” and “Ferris Buel-
ler’s Day Off” as well as Kids Run the Bases for ages 14 and younger after Sunday games. Fans also won’t want to miss the promotional giveaways such as bobble heads, retired numbers pins, locker nameplates for kids, reusable totes and more. Then, in late August and mid-September, the stadium will feature artists like Guns N’ Roses and Beyonce. There is never a shortage of events at the stadium and always a reason to sport your Dodger blue! For more information, visit losangeles.dodgers.mlb.com.
Theater Review by
Patricia Foster Rye Antaeus Theatre Company, 5112 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, 818-506-1983, Antaeus.org. 4 Stars • • • Big Sky by Alexandra GerstenVassilaros takes place in deep
the mix is family friend Jonathan (Arnie Burton), grieving over the death of his partner from cancer. Jonathan has the insights into this family’s struggles and also the snappy dialogue. As the play progresses, family secrets are revealed, while resolutions are sought via symbolic rituals. There are laughs, although the play veers from exposition, to farce, to tragedy with the speed of an avalanche. Through Sun., July 17. Geffen Playhouse, 10886 Le Conte Ave., 310-208-5454, geffenplayhouse.org. 3 Stars
winter at a Five Star condo in Aspen Colorado. Excellent scenic design by Derek McLane. Jack (John Tenney) and his family have been comped in the sleek, environmentally correct habitat for a weekend while he is vetted for a position in a top-rated investment firm. If he clinches it, it’s the business deal of his life. With him are his wife Jen (Jennifer Westfeldt) who is attached, by cell phone, to an affair back home. Also in the condo is their teen daughter Tessa (Emily Robinson), pining for her NativeAmerican boyfriend. Included in
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Thriller harkens back to spy novels; despair in 'Shiraz' Our Kind of Traitor (10/10): This is the type of thriller that Eric Ambler used to write, where an ordinary man suddenly finds himself involved with all kinds of international intrigue. I loved Ambler’s books and I loved this movie just as much. High tension is enhanced by terrific performances by Ewan McGregor, Damian Lewis, and Naomie Harris. But they are overshadowed by an over the top tour de force by Stellan Skarsgärd as a flamboyant Russian who lures Ewan and Naomie into his problems, and who should get an Oscar nomination. So should Marcello Zarvos for some of the best background music I’ve heard and Anthony Dod Mantle for wonderful cinematography. Septembers of Shiraz (9/10): While everybody knows what happened when the Islamic radicals took over Iran and held a bunch
of Americans hostage, knowing that the weak and feckless President Carter would be helpless, nobody thinks what happened to the millions of Iranians who were not Islamic, and especially the Jews in Iran. This is that story. It captures what it must be like to have your life suddenly turned around into total chaos, the hopelessness, the helplessness, and the despair that descends when thrown into a dungeon where people all around you are being executed on a daily basis. Fine performances by Adrian Brody and Selma Hayek highlight this film of high tension. Diary of a Chambermaid (8/10): Octave Mirbeau’s 1900 novel has already been made into two classic films, one by Jean Renoir in 1946 starring Paulette Goddard as Céléstine, and another by Luis Buñuel in 1964 starring Jeanne Moreau playing the same character.
All are different, but this one, starring Léa Seydoux in the titular role, is probably the best. Directed by Benoit Jacquot, this captures the difficult world and cast of distasteful characters in which the
At the Movies with
Tony Medley
lovely Céléstine finds herself trapped. In French. Popstar: Never Stop Never Stopping (7/10): Despite its hackneyed Hollywood Ending, the story is secondary to what make this film diverting which are, in order, the production values, the music, the satire, and the acting. Even better, it’s mercifully short.
Eat That Question: Frank Zappa in His Own Words (7/10): Like Hemingway in the world of literature, Zappa’s life and personality are a lot more entertaining than his music. Although he died in 1993, he tells his story himself in innumerable archival interviews. De Palma (7/10): If you ever wonder why movies are too long, listen to a director talk about himself for almost two hours, which is what you do in this documentary about filmmaker Brian De Palma. His is the only voice you hear and it is a one shot of him talking about himself for almost half the movie. Oh, there are clips of his films, but nobody is interviewed; nobody tells what it was like to be directed by him; nobody tells what it was like to collaborate with him. This is Brian De Palma on Brian De Palma. His 20 best-known films average just under two hours, like this film. Cut it by a half hour and you’d have enough. The Duel (2/10): As if westerns didn’t have enough trouble getting an audience, along comes this brutal bunch of nonsense that does nothing
more than defame the Texas Rangers. It pictures Ranger Liam Hemsworth as a coldblooded killer and goofy preacher Woody Harrelson as a guy who deserves killing. Ho hum. The Neon Demon (0/10): Intended as a scathing indictment of the fashion world, it’s basically a horror film that includes graphic scenes of perversions like necrophilia and cannibalism. It’s mindnumbingly slow (made slower by slow motion) and stomachturning disgusting. Why it’s not rated NC-17 is puzzling.
Art in the news Hard Rock Café co-founder Peter Morton has been elected to the board of the Museum of Contemporary Art, MOCA, announced Board CoChair Maurice Marciano, of the Maurice and Paul Marciano Art Foundation that will open in the former Scottish Rite Masonic Temple, 4357 Wilshire Blvd. “Peter’s continued support of MOCA is a great vote of confidence... and signals MOCA is moving and growing in a sustainable and exciting direction.”
Voices of Belmont Village
“My father never really shared much about his military service, until he saw his portrait hanging on the wall.”
Hope Luth
Every hero has a story. With tremendous pride, Belmont Village celebrates the service and sacrifice of our resident veterans through American Heroes galleries nationwide. Featuring stunning portraiture and gripping narrative, the galleries depict the unique wartime experiences that forever solidified Belmont Village veterans as heroes of their generation.
6720 Melrose
(323)
Sunday Worshi 0307
Always on our minds. Forever in our hearts.
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The Community Built for Life.® belmontvillage.com
Ecclesia Gnostica Gnostic Christian Church Bishop Dr. Stephan Hoeller
Winner of the Argentum 2016 Best of the Best and George Mason University Healthcare Awards for the Circle of Friends© memory program for Mild Cognitive Impairment.
© 2016 Belmont Village, L.P. | RCFE Lic 197608468, 197608466, 197608467, 198601646, 565801746, 197608291
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Sunday Eucharist 11:00am Wednesday Eucharist Eucharist 8:30pm 8:30pm Lectures • Fridays••8pm 8pm Wednesday • Fridays
307 6/15/16 9:59 PM
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THANK YOU, HOLLYWOOD, FOR 76 YEARS!
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New Larchmont restaurant delivers on food and service Does the recently opened Kali restaurant have the best service on the planet? After being seated at a particularly deep table in the noisy main dining room, the hostess immediately noticed our discomfort and ushered us to a lovely corner table in the front room, which was far quieter and more romantic. Later in the meal when we mentioned one dish was bland, Sommelier/co-owner Drew Langley came by, genuinely interested in our comments, then whisked the bass away and replaced it with another dish of our choosing, later bringing two complimentary glasses of champagne. Even if the rest of the food weren’t as fantastic as it was, we would return for the warm hospitality. Fresh off his own highly regarded pop-up, Kali chef and co-owner Kevin Meehan’s culinary pedigree includes stints at L’Orangerie, Bastide and Patina. The man knows how to
Dine, shop, hear music at Grove Hear music while dining and shopping Wednesday evenings beginning at 7:30 p.m. at The Grove this month. The summer series, sponsored by Citi, kicks off with the pop punk band Plain White T’s July 6. A surprise performer is scheduled for July 13. SoCal native band Smash Mouth plays July 20. British artist Cher Lloyd performs July 27. Go to thegrovela.com.
cook. Seemingly disparate flavors meld with sophistication, yet approachability. Black cod with white chocolate? Why not? Pork Loin with smoked potato and ash? Yes, please! A humble bowl of wheat berry was transformed, coaxed into a risottolike creaminess with a punch of crunch, bathed in a black garlic infusion and topped with toasted cheese. An asparagus, greens and tarragon salad nestled a barely cooked duck egg; when
On the Menu by
Helene Seifer all was stirred together something magical occured. The dish of the night, however, was the meringue gela-
Firefighters bring the heat to Taste of Farmers Market Get a taste of the Los Angeles Fire Dept.’s Firehouse Chili and other summertime fare at the Taste of Farmers Market at the Original Farmers Market Tues., July 19 from 5 to 9 p.m. More than 50 food and beverage samples will be offered from grocery, restaurant and specialty Market vendors, along with chili prepared by firefighters from Stations 61 and 68. This year, Farmers Market is
teaming up with First-in-Fire Foundation to organize the event. Adult tickets are $35 in advance; $40 at the door; a $10 kids’ ticket (10 tastes for ages 10 and under) also will be offered. All adult tickets include two drink coupons. Admission also includes free parking for vehicles parked in the Farmers Market surface lots or The Grove parking structure. Visit farmersmarketla.com.
to with candied yolk shavings. Housemade meringue was pulverized and turned into gelato. Tableside, an egg yolk that had been cured for two weeks in a sugar and salt mixture was grated over the gelato. The yellow “snow” looked beautiful and tasted spectacular. Starters are mainly $10-$12; entrees in the low $30s; desserts $10. Full bar. Try the new pad thai cocktail – coconut ice flavors the drink. Kali, 5722 Melrose Ave. 323-871-4160. ••• How many times a week do I drive on La Brea? Four? Five? Ten? Yet it wasn’t until last month that I noticed a Vietnamese restaurant — that had been there for over a year! Of course, I had to try it, so I grabbed a friend and popped over to Nong Lá for lunch. It’s a pretty simple menu, served
in pleasant surroundings. We loved the tofu and fried egg banh mi baguette sandwich, but pho may be the dish to judge. In a town smitten with Japanese ramen, the less robust, sweetly-scented Vietnamese rice noodle soup can be surprising at first slurp, but done right, it’s a powerhouse of layered delicate flavors. At Nong Lá, the particularly light broth needs some tweaking, but that’s part of the fun. Try ordering it with filet mignon and beef balls; liberally add fresh Thai basil, sliced chilies and bean sprouts; drizzle fish sauce or soy — and voila! A satisfying bowl of hominess. Appetizers $6-$9, soups $10$11; rice and noodle dishes are about $10; sandwiches come in two sizes for $6.50 and $7.95. Nong Lá Café, 145 N. La Brea Ave. #B. 323-938-1188.
Tailgate party on Larchmont Hope-Net kicks off a new year of feeding people in need at the 24th Taste of Larchmont Tailgate, Mon., Aug. 29 from 6 to 9 p.m. This year’s event celebrates football, especially the return of the Rams and the all-American pastime of pre-game partying in a parking lot. Restaurants on the bou-
levard will serve samples of their cuisine to ticketholders, known as passport holders. The event raises money that will stock the shelves of 13 area food pantries. Passports can be purchased for $40. Raffle tickets are $5 each or four for $20. See hope-net.info. Host brothers Dimitri & Thomas Houndalas
Ulysses Voyage
We’re Open for Lunch & Dinner 7 Days a Week Reservations Recommended 323-464-5160
The Original Flavors are Back!
©LC0716
A Taste of Home 127 North Larchmont Boulevard
A Culinary Odyssey in Traditional Greek Dining!
Chan Dara
Owners Hana & Peter Welcome You!
Try our outstanding Greek cuisine in many flavors! Enjoy a romantic Greek dinner on our patio among the olive trees and twinkling lights or at a fireside table inside.
In the Farmers Market • 3rd & Fairfax 323.939.9728 • www.ulyssesvoyage.com
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Larchmont Chronicle HOLLYWOOD SCHOOLHOUSE By Arun George 6th Grade
Well, this is it. Graduation was last month, and my 10-year journey at the Hollywood Schoolhouse has come to a close. HSH has been my second home, and it has taught me almost everything I know, from mathematics, to morality, to science, to history. I have had so many good times and memories shared with friends that began in preschool, and now it’s time to move on. When you walk into to the Hollywood Schoolhouse, the first thing you’ll notice is that diversity is key, and the overall common feeling is acceptance. This makes HSH incredibly welcoming, to everyone. These kids that I have become friends with, and these teachers I have become friends with … each and every person here has taught me something of value. They have taught me something I can carry on into my next journey.
PILGRIM
By Christopher Woods 6th Grade Happy summer everyone! This past school year went by so fast, even with the challenges due to the construction of our field of dreams. All of our sports teams did pretty well this year including our volleyball, basketball, football, and cheer teams. I can’t wait to meet my new teachers, I am looking forward to taking the computer engineering class in the next school year, and it will be fun to see my friends as well. We will definitely miss Dr. Brooks, but we are glad to welcome our new head of school, and yearbook dedicatee, Ms. Kong. She is one awesome lady! It has been a pleasure being the Pilgrim Larchmont Chronicle student correspondent for the last couple of years! I hope everyone has a great time at whatever camp they go to or travels you may take. I know I’ll have fun being a junior camp counselor at Pilgrim’s Camp Patriot, and don’t forget: Go Patriots!
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time playing different sports and doing other activities. Coach Donahoe, our P.E. Coach, will be leading the camp. I am really excited to go. We had a special ceremony for Mrs. Breuer who is the Head of School. She is retiring after this year. Some of the kids wrote beautiful letters and read them to her. The choir sang a thank you song, and a lot of parents came to say good-bye. We will miss her.
By Walter Bulman, Naomi Love and Joshua Nasseri 3rd Grade This year our after school drama program presented the play “The Wizard of Oz.” The story is about Dorothy, her dog, a scarecrow, a tin man, and a lion who go to the Wizard to ask for what they need. The play is a musical. There were twenty actors from grades k-4. We had dances and so
many great songs that I am still singing them. The costumes and scenery were beautiful. We had a large audience, and they clapped a lot. The actors did a great job. This summer we will have our first ever Brawerman East summer camp. We will have a great
Student advice "Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time." Thomas Edison
Silicon Valley’s “Outstanding School Of The Year”
It’s not too late to apply for fall 2016 OPEN HOUSE
10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Saturday,
July 16
1200 North Cahuenga Blvd., Los Angeles 90038 (323) 988-9505 . StratfordSchools.com/Melrose
The curiosity to reach. The courage to grasp.
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Enjoy animal encounters, music at Zoo Family Jam on Sat., July 9 at 6 p.m. gives kids the opportunity to have up-close encounters with some of the L.A. Zoo's smaller animals. There will also be live music, dancing, food trucks, and kids karaoke. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for children ages 2-12. The 18-year-old and older crowd can enjoy Roaring Nights on Fridays beginning July 29 (an evening of country music). Each evening features
Around the Town (Continued from page 8) “Want to see the Wallabies?” asked Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti as he lifted his daughter, Maya. He was accompanied by First Lady Amy Wakeland and Hiz Honor’s mom and dad, Sukey and Gil Garcetti. Throughout the Zoo were cocktail and restaurant stations whose owners donated their services, including our
LIVE MUSIC at Roaring Nights. Photo by Jamie Pham
a live band, a DJ, dancing, and food trucks. Ticket prices are $25 and $22 for members.
own El Coyote Mexican Cafe, El Cholo Los Angeles, and Pink’s Hot Dogs. The live auction garnered a flurry of bidding for the likes of “Opening Day at The Rams,” (football that is) that sold for $5,500, and a Los Angeles Lakers sports package that had a winning bid of $13,500. There to applaud the $1.1 million raised for the Zoo were
Larchmont Chronicle
American Youth Symphony moves to Wilshire Blvd. The appointment of Maestro Carlos Izcaray as music director and Maestro Juan Felipe Molano as resident conductor marks a new era for the American Youth Symphony (AYS) for the 2016/17 season. A new location also marks this era of change. The symphony has moved to 3424 Wilshire Blvd. from West Los Angeles. Originally from Venezuela, Maestro Izcaray has most actress Sharon Lawrence, U.S. Congressman Adam Schiff, GLAZA member Juanita Kempe, GLAZA president Connie Morgan, Zoo Director John Lewis, GLAZA co-chairs Betty White and Rich Lichtenstein and GLAZA trustee (and Larchmont Village neighbor) Jay Sonbolian with his wife Jenny, and their children Eva and Noah. And that’s the chat!
recently held the position of music director of the Alabama Symphony Orchestra. Maestro Molano most recently held the conductor position at the Youth Orchestra Los Angeles as well as in his native Colombia with the Colombian Youth Philharmonic. The American Youth Symphony was founded in 1964 by Maestro Mehli Mehta, with a mission to inspire the future of classical music. The orchestra provides paid fellowships to 100 musicians from all over the world, ages 15-27, with extraordinary talent. The orchestra gives free concerts to the public. The first concert of the 2016/17 Season will be held on Sun., Oct. 16 at Royce Hall. For more information, visit aysymphony.org.
Children’s named great hospital Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA) has earned a place on the Becker’s Hospital Review 2016 list of “100 Great Hospitals in America.” The 115-year-old CHLA was the only freestanding children’s hospital in California named to the list, and one of just 10 hospitals named in the state. According to Becker’s, this list of hospitals (not a ranking) represent health care leaders in their region, state or nation. Becker’s Hospital Review editorial team says the hospitals on the list are known for having a strong history of medical innovation, providing top-notch care to patients, leading clinical advancement with forward-thinking research or holding an irreplaceable spot in their communities.
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An ex-high school teacher, I teach either private one-on-one lessons or in groups of up to three students. Lessons may include ear training, since I am a singer who also writes and produces music for other artists, film and TV.
(323) 252-9526 • dlanproductions@gmail.com
Dentistry for Children and Young Adults
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Larchmont Chronicle
JulY 2016
SECTION One
23
Googly eyes and glitter at George Takei receives Mile Toys & Games classes honorary doctorate Free arts and crafts classes are being offered for children ages 3 to 10 this summer at Miracle Mile Toys & Games, 5363 Wilshire Blvd. The two-hour, drop-in sessions are being offered on eight Mondays from 10 a.m. to noon beginning July 11. Danielle Lovell, who has taught fiber arts in an afterschool program at Larchmont Charter School, will guide participants to find their inner artists. Projects will include making pompom caterpillars and necklaces, dough sculpture and yarn monsters with lots of glitter, googly eyes and other works using craft materials on hand. Creativity and fun will be key, says store owner Christine Johnson. Parents can also connect at the weekly gatherings. “Even though there are some amazing camps out there, we
know that some kids are home over the summer, and quite honestly, some of those camps even at great prices are out of reach for some families, so here’s an opportunity for a free, high quality experience for all ages. And a great chance for parents to connect, too,” says Johnson. Visit, miraclemiletoys.com.
Wright graduates from Sewanee
William Lloyd Fitzhugh Wright, of Windsor Square and formerly a student at Campbell Hall, was awarded a bachelor of science degree in chemistry from Sewanee, University of the South. Wright, who also was a running back for the Sewanee Tigers football team, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Michael F. Wright of S. Irving Blvd.
Longtime Hancock Park resident, actor and activist George Takei received an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree during commencement ceremonies this year at California State University, Los Angeles. Takei also gave the keynote address at the College of Natural and Social Sciences. He spoke of everyone’s responsibility to be engaged in the political process in order to make our country a better place. He added that both his and the students’ generations “have a challenge to boldly go where we have never gone before.” Takei is best known for his role as Mr. Sulu on the acclaimed, original Star Trek television series. He holds a bachelor of arts and a masters in theater from UCLA. Takei recently spent several months performing on Broadway.
GEORGE TAKEI gives a commencement address to Cal State Los Angeles undergraduates.
Photo by J. Emilio Flores
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24
SECTION ONE
JulY 2016
Larchmont Chronicle
JULY 6 PLAIN WHITE T’S JULY 13 ATLAS GENIUS JULY 20 SMASH MOUTH JULY 27 CHER LLOYD WEDNESDAYS IN JULY 7:30PM • FREE
GF_SCS_LARCHMONT_1O.25x16.indd 1
6/16/16 5:07 PM
TRADITION:
VETERANS:
LIBRARIES:
Hand-carved fireplace mantels are all in the Edmon's family.
Windsor Square architect works to make a better home for vets. Page 10
Pets and youth enjoy summer reading at area libraries.
Page D-1
Larchmont Chronicle Section 2 - July 2016
Real Estate, Museums, Libraries Home & Garden
Page 15
VIEW
Design for Living 2016 Annual Section Center Pull-Out
hancock park • windsor square • fremont place • Greater Wilshire • Miracle Mile • park la brea • Larchmont
SEARCH FOR MORE LISTINGS AT
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One of Windsor Square’s grandes-12,500 sf on a nearly 27,000 lot, 11 bedrooms, 8.5 baths.
4bedrooms/3baths up & maids + 1.5 bath down, and pool. As is condition.
This 4+4.5 Spanish was gutted & remodeled w/new 2nd story + garage & salt water pool & spa
4bds/3bas, fam rm; Cntr hall. Fpl, stained glass wndws; coved ceiling, hdwd flrs. Pool.
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Wonderful, character home w/ 3-4 bdrms, 2 baths, newer kitch & updated systems. In escrow.
Rarely available 2-bed/2 ½ bath PLUS den in beautiful Hancock Park Terrace. Welcome Home!
One of a kind, restored unit w/orig architectural details. 3+3 in 2,390 sf & 3 car prkg.
Guard gated condo completely remodeled w/ the highest quality & attention to detail.
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Duplex w/ 2+1 units. Easy to convert to SFR. Prkg. Newly painted. Can deliver vacant.
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This unit is just shy of 1,800 square feet at 1,795 with 3 large bedrooms and 2.5 baths.
Charming upper unit with spacious 1bed & 1bath. Formal living & dining room.
A 1911 gem on large lot awaits your creative touch. 4+2
Simply stunning streamline retreat with grassy yard, large deck and pool. 5 + 4
$7,696,000
Lisa Hutchins (323) 460-7626
$1,299,000
Rick Llanos (323) 460-7617
$749,000
Jenny Chow (323) 460-7624
$3,900/ Month
Bob Day (323) 860-4221
HANCOCK PARK NORTH (323) 464-9272 251 North Larchmont Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90004
$3,699,000
Lisa Hutchins (323) 460-7626
$1,150,000
James R Hutchison/ Peggy Bartenetti (323) 460-7637
$7,250/MO
Cecille Cohen (213) 810-9949
$2,395/MO
Michelle Hanna (213) 923-8086
$2,999,000
Lisa Hutchins (323) 460-7626
$995,000
Maria C. Gomez Gri Crs Cips (213) 705-1603
$6,500/MO
Cecille Cohen (213) 810-9949
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HANCOCK PARK SOUTH (323) 462-0867 119 North Larchmont Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90004
©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals.
2
JULY 2016
SECTION TWO
Larchmont Chronicle
Homeowner irritated by increase in ‘pushy’ Realtors “It is never done with ill By Billy Taylor A long-time Windsor Square resident contacted the Chronicle in June concerned by an increase in “pushy” Realtors in his neighborhood. “It starts with postcards and introduction letters sent in the mail, then business cards
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ICE S! ER G PR F F N E O KI LV E AS E T W R TH VE DO
dropped in the mailbox and now more recently a constant barrage of agents ringing the doorbell to solicit sales — four in the last month to be exact,” he said, on the condition of anonymity. Having owned his home for 45 years, this resident thinks
the situation is getting worse. “The most recent [Realtor] had paperwork ready to be signed from an interested buyer who has flipped many other properties on our block in the last few years. “The presumptuousness of this scenario is appalling,” he
!
complained. Another tactic he’s recently witnessed is attempts to persuade elderly residents — including his own parents — to “downsize.” One agent, he says, has returned three times to push the idea. Appropriate or pushy? To get an idea of what constitutes good business practice for the industry, the Chronicle contacted a couple of wellknown local Realtors to get their thoughts on such tactics. “Phone calling, mailers, door knocking, sponsorship and advertising are methods some Realtors use to market themselves,” says Mary Woodward, a Hancock Park real estate agent for Keller Williams.
intent,” she adds. Mary and her team, Woodward Real Estate, were ranked in the top 1,000 agents in the U.S. by the Wall Street Journal in 2015. Woodward explains that many Realtors find door knocking to be a great way to introduce themselves to new people and new business, adding: “It takes fortitude and courage to knock on doors.” Such encounters often lead to connections that can benefit both parties, according to Woodward, who notes, “homeowners are usually happy to be updated.” Woodward says you would be hard-pressed to find a successful agent who doesn’t use “one of those” tactics to market their business. (Please turn to page 19)
Real Estate Sales* 852 S Mullen Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90005
2 Bedrooms, 1 Bath
$925,000
New Brookside listing! First time on the market in over fifty years. Two bedrooms, one den/ office, and one bath. Living room, dining room, kitchen, laundry room, grassy backyard with a mature persimmon tree. This home is ready for the new owner to update to his or her own taste. Property to be sold in its “as is” present condition: no credits, no repairs.
Sandy Boeck 323-860-4240
SOLD: Newly-remodeled four bedroom/ 3.75 bath house in Brookside, at 809 S. Mullen Ave., sold for $1,697,000.
www.SandyBoeck.com
CalBRE # 01005153 Hancock Park South •119 N. Larchmont Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90004 • 323.462.1225 Fax ©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and theColdwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC.
Single family homes 465 N. June St. 500 N. Cahuenga Blvd. 635 S. Mansfield Ave. 464 S. Citrus Ave. 456 N. McCadden Pl. 500 N. Gower St. 506 S. Norton Ave. 135 N. Beachwood Dr. 630 N. Las Palmas Ave. 809 S. Mullen Ave. 215 N. Plymouth Blvd. 628 N. Highland Ave. 923 S. Bronson Ave. 848 Westchester Pl. 745 S. Highland Ave. 936 S. Victoria Ave. 924 Keniston Ave. 311 N. Hobart Blvd. 1208 S. St. Andrews Pl.
NeW lISTINg
637 N. CahueNga Blvd.
Condominiums
Great house, great price! Located in Hancock Park. Remodeled home includes 2 bedroom suites, open floor plan with kitchen/great room, hardwood flooring, updated plumbing and electric, central air and studio in back! Nice!
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Offered at $1,285,000.
310-623-8722
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$4,399,000 3,499,000 3,199,000 2,949,000 2,750,000 2,249,000 2,199,000 2,195,000 1,789,000 1,725,000 1,699,000 1,699,000 1,269,000 1,200,000 1,199,000 1,175,000 1,090,000 865,000 775,000
316 N. Rossmore Ave., #502 646 Wilcox Ave., #1 681 S. Norton Ave., #110 421 S. Van Ness Ave., #12 4477 Wilshire Blvd., #104 3810 Wilshire Blvd., #1807 4845 Elmwood Ave., #C 326 Westminster Ave., #302 326 Westminster Ave., #206 *List prices for May 2016.
$1,399,000 999,000 979,000 789,000 779,000 719,000 649,900 649,000 630,000
Larchmont Chronicle
JulY 2016
SECTION TWO
3
Top 100 in Southern California Just Listed - 434 North Mansfield Avenue
LARCHMONT CHRONICLE founders and publishers Dawne Goodwin and Jane Gilman at a reception with Muhammad Ali and Mayor Bradley in the early 1980s.
Muhammad Ali once called Fremont Place home
Over the years, many of Fremont Place’s 73 homes have housed celebrities, civic leaders and even one internationally celebrated boxer. The late Muhammad Ali, who died last month, lived for seven years in one of the oldest homes in Fremont Place — Number 55. Oilman Martin Henry Mosier built the home, in 1916. Aside from his interests in oil, Mosier was also involved in the Sunshine Company, which owned the 4,200-acre Sunshine Ranch (now Granada Hills).
To construct his family home, which would be considered “one of the beautiful residences in the fashionable Wilshire district,” Mr. Mosier enlisted the help of John C. Austin, an architect and civic leader known for his involvement in several landmark buildings such as the Griffith Park Observatory, Los Angeles City Hall and the Hollywood Masonic Temple. The Italian Renaissance mansion would sit on 1.5 acres, and the 10,000 square-foot home would include nine bedrooms, (Please turn to page 8)
Timeless Beauty for Modern Age | 7 br / 8.5 ba | $4,900,000 Naomi Hartman
Homes for an Era - Agents for a Lifetime
323.860.4259
nhartman@coldwellbanker.com CalBRE# 00769979
Leah Brenner
323.860.4245
Members ~ Society of Excellence www.naomiandleah.com
lbrenner@coldwellbanker.com CalBRE# 00917665
©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals.
4
JULY 2016
SECTION TWO
Larchmont Chronicle
Premiere tour showed off natives, drip systems, birds and bees Some 20 neighborhood gardens showed off their native plants and colorful butterflies at the premiere Greater Wilshire Neighborhood Council Sustainable Garden Tour on June 26. While some of the landscapes were professionally designed, many of the residents put on their own gloves, sought help from their gardeners and spent funds from the city’s rebate program. The homeowners “really did educate themselves,” said Julie Stromberg, chair of the GWNC Sustainability Committee. The city’s turf-removal rebate guidelines allowed for a portion of the ground surface to be “hardscaped with a permeable surface” for a bocce ball court in Julie Grist’s S. Windsor front yard. She worked with landscape designer Sloan Foxe Ashley
A BOCCE COURT was framed in timber and rolled with decomposed granite to Julie Grist’s design.
of Wormwood Designs. “Our aim was to attract birds, bees and butterflies, with a special focus on providing nectar and pollen-rich plants for butterflies,” Grist said. California natives included were: ceanothus (wild lilac),
echinacea (coneflower), pelargonium (geranium), catmint, rock purslane and coyote mint. A low-water-use decorative fountain further attracts both birds and butterflies. A North Plymouth resident also received lawn removal
FLOWERS are in bloom since a mid-December planting at a garden on N. Plymouth Blvd.
rebate funds, and she took free classes through the Dept. of Water and Power Water-Wise program and at the Theodore Payne Foundation, where she attended Four Seasons of Color and California Native Plant Garden Design courses.
WE LOVE WHAT WE DO.
In just five months, the resident described her “green journey” as already visibly rewarding, an “aromatic garden with primary colors of red and yellow...” She replaced a sloping lawn with native plants, mulch and rock, retaining other plants that had proven drought tolerant, and she changed an old spray sprinkler system to a drip irrigation and weatherbased one. She opted to keep grass on the parkway “for the many dog walkers — and so passengers can get out of their cars.” Drip irrigation and a plant palette drawing from South Africa, Australia, the Mediterranean and California natives were popular among many gardens, said tour co-chair Cathy Roberts. The event drew a good response and is already planned to return next year. “We wanted to offer inspiration to people for their gardens in light of the fact that the drought is probably the new normal,” Roberts said. The tour began at Harold A. Henry Park in Windsor Village, which was recently renovated with cactus and native flora. During the tour, the Theodore Payne Foundation for Wild Flowers & Native Plants, of Sun Valley, had representatives at the park as part of its increased outreach efforts. Tour participants were from throughout the Greater Wilshire area, including: from Fremont Place: Sue Ellen Waters; from La Brea-Hancock: Suzan Fellman, Citrus Ave., and Diana Eisele, Citrus Ave.; from Windsor Village: Julie Grist and Paul Holahan, Windsor Blvd., Jill and John Bauman, Windsor Blvd., Carla & Tony Palermo, Windsor Blvd., Holly Holyk, Victoria Ave., and Julie Burleigh and Catherine Opie, Victoria Ave.; and, from Larchmont Village: Rebecca & Charlie Hutchinson, Bronson Ave., the Johnson-Bedikian Residence, Bronson Ave., and a residence in the 600 north block of Plymouth Blvd.
Larchmont Chronicle
July 2016
SECTION TWO
5
ST D JU STE LI
617 N. Cherokee Avenue, Hancock Park
W IT H
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SOJUS M LD T U LT IP * L
3 bedrooms, plus an office • 3 bathroom • Living Area: 2,623 square feet • Lot Size: 6,348 square feet Located on a tree-lined street in Hancock Park, this sun drenched home has been exquisitely renovated while maintaining the charm and character of the 1920’s. The kitchen offers custom cabinets, Quartzite countertops, a Marble tile backsplash, Viking range and hood and connects to the family room. Glass sliders in the family room open to a deck with an awning and a beautifully landscaped backyard. This thoughtful floor plan also includes three upstairs bedrooms, including master suite with spacious walk-in closet, plus an office and hall bath. The downstairs bathroom has been updated with Ann Sacks tiles and custom cabinets. Other upgrades include a tankless water heater, newer electrical panel, sprinklers, privacy bushes, security cameras and an alarm system and a driveway gate. Listed at $2,345,000 www.617Cherokee.com
deasy/penner&partners
Michele Sanchez 323.863.3998 CalBRE#: 01230003
msanchez@deasypenner.com 237 S Hudson Avenue, Hancock Park 6 bedrooms • 4.5 bathroom • 5,908 square feet List Price - $3,900,000 *Represented buyer
Beverly Hills • Pasadena • Venice Palm Springs • Hancock Park
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JULY 2016
SECTION TWO
Larchmont Chronicle
Entrepreneur named ‘Treasure of Los Angeles’ Windsor Square resident Wayne Ratkovich, of the Ratkovich Company, was among honorees at the Central City Association’s recent 22nd annual “Treasures of Los Angeles” luncheon. The developer and entrepreneur — he renovated the 5900 Wilshire building, which he also owns — has reclaimed noted historic properties and is transform-
ing 7th St. downtown with a complete renovation of The Bloc, a mixed-used development, according to the Association. In all, the Ratkovich Company has renovated over 17 historic landmark buildings in Los Angeles, starting in 1979 with the Oviatt building, followed by the Fine Arts Building, the Wiltern Theater and Pellissier Building, Chapman
Market and Terminal Annex. Other projects have included the Alex Theater in Glendale, the Hercules Campus in Playa Vista and The Alhambra. Also honored at the luncheon was Monsignor Kevin Kostelnik, retiring (on July 1) pastor of the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels; he helped shepherd construction of the cathedral, provided support and solace for CITY COUNCIL PRESIDENT Herb Wesson and downtown Councilmember José Huizar salute awardee, Wayne Ratkovich (center) of Windsor Square.
Happy Fourth of July!
thousands of parishioners, and as a community leader supported the revitalization of downtown Los Angeles. Matt Toledo of the “Los
Recent Sales: 12008 Milan St., Valley Village 581 N. Larchmont Blvd. - Private Sale 348 S. McCadden Pl. - Private Sale Represented both parties
Listed for $850,000 Offered at $1,850,000 Offered at $2,795,000
Downtown to hold its largest July 4 celebration in Grand Park
Day — A trusted name in Los Angeles since the 1880s Bob Day’s tradition of service began with his great grandfather’s music store at First & Spring Streets.
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Bob continues that legacy of service as a top Realtor with Coldwell Banker Hancock Park.
A Trusted Name in Los Angeles since 1882
Bob Day 323-821-4820 BobDay@coldwellbanker.com
DRE # 0851770
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Angeles Business Journal,” and the Los Angeles organization Rams were also honored. The luncheon was held at the Westin Bonaventure Hotel.
This Fourth of July, the Music Center will be hosting its fourth annual Block Party in Grand Park. This year is promised to be the largest celebration yet with two grand stages featuring many L.A. CITY HALL will celebrate Independence Day music acts and with live music, fireworks and family events. ending the night with Downtown’s largest fireworks display. The event is family-friendly with special kids activities for children ages 4-14. Guests will also have the opportunity to taste food from over 25 different food trucks. The event will take place on Mon. July 4 from 2 – 9:30 p.m. at Grand Park and the Music Center in Downtown. For more information visit, grandparkla.org/4thofjuly.
Larchmont Chronicle
JulY 2016
SECTION TWO
7
Retail richness in a nearby historic buildling We’re luckier than ever to live where we do — much of the historical richness of our city is at hand, as well as its rocketing pockets of rebirth. McManus & Morgan, Inc., on W. Seventh St., near MacArthur Park, is a distributor of fine artists papers, but if you stop at its storefront and then step inside its hushed interior, you might think it a used bookshop and stationery store. But look up at the beautifully pieced, carved, and stenciled ceiling. You’re in a different world here. This 1923 building is the work of Morgan, Walls & Clements, architects of many of the Art Deco masterpieces of Los Angeles. Buy something, and Gary Wolin will write up your purchase with a sharp pencil on flawlessly torn, fine-quality printing paper. An ornately engraved, 1917 cash register just behind and to the left of the counter doesn’t disappoint. Ka-ching. Wolin’s nod to the electronic age is a small adding machine. Gary Wolin is likely the most knowledgeable person about fine art paper in the city. He has an exquisite understanding of the processes of the artists he serves, including Ed Ruscha. Wolin has been in this shop since high school, in the 1960s, after his father bought it from a relative. He is careful to say he isn’t an artist himself — he studied accounting — but it’s difficult to believe. He’s one of our city’s living treasures. McManus & Morgan was started in
1923 by two UCLA students (when the University of California’s “Southern Branch” was still at Vermont and Normal Aves.), and the store was sold out of the founders’ orbit only once before it came to the Wolin family.
Home Ground by
Paula Panich
The original arts district McManus & Morgan has been on W. Seventh St., in the Westlake neighborhood, since the 1940s. This is the original established “arts district” of our city. “Otis was a block north, on Wilshire, Chouinard one and a half blocks away on Eighth St., and Art Center was a quarter of a block away,” Wolin says, referring, in shorthand, to Southern California’s most significant art schools. (Chouinard was the predecessor of CalArts.) McManus & Morgan experienced a leap forward in the 1970s, with a great awakening in printmaking thanks to June Wayne, who, along with others, established the Tamarind Lithography Workshop (TLW). Louise Nevelson, Josef Albers, and David Hockney were among the artists who produced work at the TLW, which was founded in an effort to
revive an art form many feared was near extinction. (TLW moved to the University of New Mexico after a decade in Los Angeles.) “June Wayne drove the whole movement of people doing multiples,” Wolin says. “It was the time of the giant paintings. But for local artists to be collectible by a wider audience, they needed to produce lessexpensive work.” McManus & Morgan carried all supplies necessary for screen and block printing, etching, monotype, and lithography as well as the domestic and imported papers needed for a city singing with the rolling gears of the presses. The peak of this movement came in the 1980s, but Wolin has nothing if not patience. Though much of his business is now with graphic artists, he’s watching a new swell of interest in printmaking. His firm carries papers from 20 countries. He’s pleased by the young artists attracted to his ENTER a different world at McManus & Morgan, neighborhood, who walk by where an adding machine is as high tech as it gets. and might wonder: What goes a symbiotic relationship, beautifulon in here? Twenty-five years ago, Aardvark Let- ly explained in a nine-minute vidterpress moved into the storefront eo, “Ink and Paper,” produced and next door to McManus & Morgan, on directed by the filmmaker Ben Proudthe corner of W. Seventh and Caron- foot, of Breakwater Studios, at: vimeo. delet streets. The two companies have com/33359230.
EXPERT SERVICE. EXCEPTIONAL RESULTS.
SOLD OVER ASKING 4277 BECK AVE. 5 BEDS / 4.5 BATH
IN ESCROW
STUDIO CITY 617 LILLIAN WAY $2,625,000 4 BEDS / 2.5 BATH
SOLD OVER ASKING
HANCOCK PARK 313 N. IRVING BL. $1,900,000 2 BEDS / 2 BATHS
LARCHMONT VILLAGE PRICE TBD
IN ESCROW
3627 REVERE AVE. ATWATER VILLAGE 2400 GRAMERCY PL. 2 HOMES/ 4+2.5+ STUDIO $925,000 5 BEDS/ 3 BATHS Keller Williams Larchmont 118 N. Larchmont Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90004 BRE# 01870534
www.coregroupla.com
COMING SOON
FOR SALE
WEST ADAMS 101 S. LARCHMONT BL. LARCHMONT VILLAGE $1,395,000 3 BEDS/4 BATHS+GUEST $2,395,000
PETE BUONOCORE 323.762.2561
pete@coregroupla.com WWW.COREGROUPLA.COM
BRE# 01279107
8
SECTION TWO
JULY 2016
Larchmont Chronicle
FREMONT PLACE
Behind the gates, step back in time Long before Muhammad Ali was counted as among its illustrious residents, Fremont Place was conceived in 1911 as an exclusive, park-like district of sedate mansions. The gated community of Fremont Place was developed by Charles Ingram, David Barry and George Briggs. The entrance gates, one of the defining features of the subdivision, were designed by J. Martyn Haenke, one of the architects of the Chandler House, and were built at a cost of $12,000 each. The impressive gates mark the entrance, but they were also most likely intended to distinguish Fremont Place from competing developments across Wilshire (namely Windsor Square and Hancock Park). The original plan for Fremont Place included 48 lots on 50 acres, and specified that no home would cost less than $7,500. However, due to economic turmoil in the Great Depression, many of the original lots were subdivided. The neighborhood suffered further decline and at one point the entire tract was nearly sold for commercial development, but a few homeowners were holdouts, thwarting a sale. Subsequently, the residents of the historic neighborhood have protected and restored it to its former glory.
WE THE PEOPLE. The Rotunda of the National Archives in Wash., D.C., displays the Constitution, the Bill of Rights and the Declaration of Independence. It's on many residents' summer and yearround travels. See more vacation destinations page 9.
(Continued from page 3) four baths and four fireplaces. Portions of the interior of the house originally were decorated by Louis Comfort Tiffany. The estate was later home to longtime local residents Don and Alice Willfong, who lovingly restored it in the 1970s. Its next big claim to fame, however, would come around 1979, when the home was sold to prize-fighting legend Muhammad Ali and his wife. They called the neighborhood home from 1979 to 1986. In 1980, this Fremont Place home was designated as Historic Landmark #9 by the Windsor Square–Hancock Park Historical Society, under the name The “Mosier / Fifield / Willfong / Ali Home.” The home has been further updated and renewed by its current owners, who purchased the property in 2001.
Happy Independence Day! from Lisa, Mark,
Kate & Grace Hutchins
©LC0716
Muhammad Ali
Lisa Hutchins DRE # 01018644
323-216-6938
Larchmont Chronicle
JulY 2016
Vacations around the globe …. LEFT TO RIGHT: Quinn Lanza, Sadie and Sabine Weil and Kellyn Lanza cheer on the U.S. Women’s Soccer team at the Women’s World Cup in Vancouver, Canada
Larchmontians visited near and far on recent travels. Compiled by Sondi Sepenuk
LEFT TO RIGHT: Sydney and Hudson Brown brave a helicopter ride in the Fiji Islands.
LEFT TO RIGHT: Tommy, Joe and Gus Drynan enjoy a hot day in Mammoth Lakes. LEFT TO RIGHT: Colin Kneafsey, Luke Terrill and Henry Boylston get their game on at Dodger baseball camp at Dodger Stadium.
LILY ROSEME enjoys the fresh air at Lake Lenwood, West Bend, Wisconsin.
STELLA AND GRACIE KAZANJIAN living the Sound of Music dream in the Austrian Alps.
SECTION TWO
Anthony, 90, retires (sort of) after decades By Suzan Filipek Back in 1956, on a recommendation, Orvis Anthony got a job working for a doctor in Hancock Park. Pretty soon, the spritely young gardener got another job, and then another. Before long, he mowed half the lawns in the neighborhood, at least that’s how the legend goes. “Everybody knows Orvis around the neighborhood,” said one of his longtime customers. “It was hard for him to let go, and it was hard for me,” said Kay Gates, S. McCadden Pl. Anthony, 90, has retired. He figured it was time, he said last week sitting on a spacious porch in Gates' backyard. Born in Texas, he moved to Los Angeles in his youth and soon started landscaping the park-like yards of Hancock Park, Windsor Square and Larchmont Village. It was different back then, noted Gates, who moved to the area in 1962 with her late husband, Peter, and raised two children. “We knew everybody all the way up and down the street. Children played in the yards; there were no fences or walls like today.”
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ORVIS ANTHONY with his longtime customer Kay Gates.
A longtime gardener herself, Gates kept raised vegetable beds. “She’d leave the heavy stuff for me,” laughed Anthony, who is a father of two. He said his jobs have become fewer and fewer the past few years. The still-spry nonagenarian noted that the state’s drought has changed the landscape, but Gates’ front and back yards are still well tended. After all, Anthony recommended her new gardener, smiled Gates. While Anthony is officially retired, his wife Maria Christina still drives him from their Gardena home once a week to tend four gardens. “It feels like retirement,” compared to the 30 homes he and his crew once visited weekly, he says.
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International President’s Elite cell: 323.855.5558 juneahn21@gmail.com CalBRE# 01188513 ©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage office is owned by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker® and the Coldwell Banker Logo, Coldwell Banker Previews International® and the Coldwell Banker Previews International Logo, are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Broker does not guarantee the accuracy of square footage, lot size or other information concerning the condition or features of property provided by seller or obtained from public records or other sources, and the buyer is advised to independently verify the accuracy of that information through personal inspection and with appropriate professionals.
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JULY 2016
SECTION TWO
Larchmont Chronicle
Local architect on front lines of VA land planning in Westwood By Sondi Toll Sepenuk The long-neglected United States Department of Veteran’s Affairs (VA) campus in Westwood is finally getting a makeover, and Windsor Square resident and architect William Fain, FAIA, of Johnson Fain is helping to lead the charge. Fain, his wife, Jennifer, and their two grown daughters — Elizabeth Fain LaBombard and Margaret Fain Jenkins — have lived in Windsor Square since 1986. Fain has practiced architecture and urban planning for more than 35 years and is currently the managing partner for Johnson Fain, a firm of 70-plus architects, planners and interior designers, headquartered in downtown Los Angeles. Focus on urban design Fain’s long and awardwinning career has focused on advancing the practice of urban design as a bridge between the public good and private benefit. He studied for his undergraduate architecture degree at UC Berkeley, attended the University of Manchester in England and then earned his graduate architecture degree from Harvard’s Graduate School of Design in 1975. Fain then went to work as an urban designer in the Office of Midtown Planning and Development of New York
ARCHITECTS Scott Johnson and Bill Fain at the Los Angeles Conservancy Preservation Awards Luncheon in May.
City and later served as senior architect and urban designer for the Boston Redevelopment Authority. Before co-founding their firm in 1987 with Scott Johnson, FAIA, Fain worked for Pereira Associates as Director of Urban Design. With a resume like that, its no wonder that Fain and his firm were approached by lawyers Ronald Olson and O’Malley Miller of Munger, Tolles & Olson LLP, as well as Bobby Shriver of Veteran’s Advocacy, to help develop a master plan for the West Los Angeles VA campus. Bandini – Jones land The 387-acre property for-
merly owned by Arcadia Bandini de Baker and Senator John P. Jones, located just west of UCLA and the 405 freeway, was donated by them to the federal government in 1888 They stipulated that the property was to be used as the Pacific Branch of the National Home for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers. If not used for veteran purposes, the property would revert back to the original family ownership. Over the years, the VA campus has served thousands of veterans as one of the largest medical centers in the VA system. Services include stateof-the-art hospital and outpa-
tient care, rehabilitation, residential care, long-term care, and medical research and education facilities. Private leases Beginning in the 1970s, however, the federal government began leasing some of the campus buildings to private entities, and there was increasing neglect and disrepair of many of the other structures and spaces. “The VA campus went through three periods of growth,” explains Fain. “From the 1800s–1920s, the campus was made up of a ravine filled with sycamores and wide open spaces with sea breezes, homelike architecture, porches and views of the ocean… In addition to the veterans who stayed on the campus, people from West Adams, Bunker Hill and Exposition Park would hop on the streetcar, which terminated at the VA, and come out to picnic on the property.” The 1920s–1950s saw much more institutionalized growth. “The buildings weren’t as ‘friendly,’” reports Fain. “They had long corridors and they were more Empire style — plus the VA added different road plans to the campus — which made it hard to figure out where to go.”
Dona Arcadia Bandini Stearns de Baker, 1827-1912, was the great-grandaunt of Carolina Winston Barrie, who long has fought to protect the gift, from Dona Arcadia and Senator Jones, of 387 Westwood acres to provide a permanent home for disabled American war veterans.
In the period from the 1970s–1990s, the campus went through a period of neglect. More than twenty leases were made on the property, including leases to the Brentwood School, UCLA, a solar panel company and many more. “This was a very opportunistic period and the campus was broken up into parcels,” explains Fain. “It was a time when the federal government (Please turn to page 13)
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Featuring Mitchell Schwartz, Los Angeles Mayoral Candidate 2017 On Saturday, July 2, you are invited to a very special event featuring Mitchell Schwartz, Los Angeles Mayoral Candidate. Come meet Mitchell and learn more about his campaign for mayor. See where he stands on important issues ranging from real estate development and affordable housing, our transportation and education systems, homelessness and crime. WHERE: Wilshire Country Club 301 N Rossmore Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90004
WHEN: Saturday, July 2 3-5pm Wine and hors d’oeuvres served
Space is limited. Please RSVP to larchmontliving@gmail.com, (323) 762-2562. Event dress code details will be sent with reservation confirmation.
Design for Living Larchmont Chronicle July 2016
L
uckily, Allison Hawley Simmons’ newborn had perfect timing. Scarlett was born two weeks late, which turned out to be just in time for the finishing touches of the family’s kitchen remodel. Allison and her husband Mike had been living at their N. Irving Blvd. home while (Please turn to page D-2)
SIBLINGS Edward and Mercedes Simonian in the Edmon's furniture showroom.
I
f you’ve ever been in the market for a new fireplace mantel, then you’ve probably heard of Edmon’s Unique Furniture and Stone Gallery. The family-owned business on Melrose near Larchmont has been (Please turn to page D-4) operating for the
SCARLETT, 16 months, arrived in time for the new kitchen.
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July 2016
Larchmont Chronicle
Design for Living
Area designers and stores ready to update your home By Brooke Stewart Alakazam Upholstery and Drapery is the perfect place for your upholstery and drapery needs. Located on Sweetzer Ave., this family-run workshop owned by Rosie Fortunate has been open for six years with clientele all over Los Angeles. They can fix any style of chair or slipcover with a wide selection of fabrics, and also replace weatherproof fabrics. With a multitude of services, Alakazam is the place to go for upholstery. 1236 N. Sweetzer Ave. 310-491-8409 ••• With 20 years of experience as a contractor, interior designer and landscape designer Brian G. Little of BGL Design Construction is a “one-stop shop” for clients looking to restore their homes. Little’s work has been acclaimed by the press. In 2006, the Larchmont Chronicle recognized him for “best home renovation” for a commission on Rossmore Ave. His all-encompassing services and acclaim for past commissions, make him one of a kind. 809 N. McCadden Place
brianlittledesign.com ••• With a wide array of lighting, door and window fixtures, as well as furniture hardware ranging from Victorian to contemporary styles, Liz’s Antique Hardware is the place to go if you seek to restore antique furniture or historic homes. With such a wide selection of hardware, it’s no wonder so many people shop at Liz’s. Upstairs from the hardware and furniture section is Liz’s Loft – a contemporary art gallery with works from emerging and established artists. 435 N. La Brea Ave. lahardware.com ••• McWhorter Design appeals to the taste of the client instead of following trends. Interior and landscape designer Bill McWhorter works to create a space for his clients within a framework of “taste, style, and panache.” Whether you are looking for a droughtfriendly landscape or a modern kitchen, McWhorter can help make your dreams a reality. 5442 Wilshire Blvd. mcwhorterdesign.com •••
Randy Esada of Windsor Square is moving east on Beverly Blvd. to his new venture, Prospr. Prospr offers mid-century modern furniture with a selection of antiques and decorative art. With a wide selection, Prospr is the perfect place to spruce up your home. The
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Pieces are crafted from a range of high-quality wood; veneers are made in the store’s workshop. The family-run business provides repair services, refinishing and fine antique restorations, and it creates modern custom-made pieces. 351 S. La Brea Ave. viennawoodsla.com
New kitchen adds light and space (Continued from page D-1) the four-months-plus project was underway; the holidays and the birth were imminent. “There was some time pressure to finish this job,” said Windsor Square based-architect Mary Pickhardt. The couple had bought the Mediterranean-style 1922 home the year before, and with their growing family, needed more room. The galley kitchen was long and narrow, cramped next to a long hallway and a tiny bedroom. “There was only room for
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one or two people” in the kitchen, said Allison. The challenge was to open the space without adding square feet, said Pickhardt, who had several tricks up her sleeve. The home’s fourth and uninviting bedroom was knocked down and a wall was opened and framed with an arch that ties into the home’s Spanish theme and also reveals the family room and views of the backyard. “If you can see outside, it makes it feel bigger,” said Pickhardt. The kitchen’s new white recessed panel cabinets reach the ceiling — drawing the eye up and giving the illusion of more space. The Caesarstone countertops “are indestructible,” a must with a toddler prone to eating raspberries, says her mom. The backsplash, a blue Moroccan-influenced, handmade clay tile, adds color. Pickhardt designed a banquette for where the couple’s extensive family and friends can congregate in the kitchen, while the cook has room to move near the Sub-Zero and six-burner stove behind an island. Interior decorator Bebe Johnson added a custom table next to the banquette, as well as the built-in media cabinets, curtains, a sectional sofa and his and her’s (Scarlett’s) matching elephant-patterned chairs in the family room. A long “bowling alley” of a hallway was narrowed, which allowed for expanded laundry and broom closets and an office area, where Mike displays some of his penguin collection on an upper shelf. “This is my favorite feature,” says Allison of a light that goes on when opening the broom closet. Pickhardt’s ties to the family
MIKE and Scarlett on matching elephant-patterned chairs.
go back at least 23 years when she designed Allison’s mom’s kitchen on Lorraine Blvd. It still holds up today, says Allison. “What we try to do is make the kitchen go with the house, so it’s classic and everything ages together. We don’t do trendy stuff,” explains Pickhardt. When the couple bought the home, many of its original features had been stripped or modernized. Addition of crown moulding and other touches brought back the home’s former glory, while large-pane windows add light and tie the old with the new. The contractor, Doug Dalton, who grew up in Fremont Place, was the “unsung hero” of the project, said Pickhardt. An arched entry way — matching the one in the family room — softens that space. Painted a warm shade of coral, the entryway’s chandelier matches one in the hallway. A larger chandelier that hangs in the dining room was from an old French hotel and among purchases from La Brea antique stores. “We’re pretty traditional and wanted to stay true to the home’s style,” says Allison. By Suzan Filipek
Larchmont Chronicle
July 2016
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July 2016
Larchmont Chronicle
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(Continued from page D-1) past 38 years on the first floor of what is now the Historic Hollywood Hotel, located on Melrose at Wilton. “We specialize in custommade, hand-carved mantels,” says co-owner Mercedes Simonian. “But what makes us different is that we use all of our own original designs that have been patented to us. Everything we sell is completely unique and hand-made." Mercedes’ father, Edmon, opened the store in 1978 using a small amount of savings. He was an Armenian immigrant who arrived in Los Angeles two years prior with only $90 in his pockets. Before leaving Armenia, however, Edmon had trained under both his father and grandfather to become a master craftsman, a family tradition dating back to 1890. Using stone and woodcarving tools, Edmon set up shop determined to sell only high quality, hand-carved products — a business he continued to operate for the next 32 years. In fact, the business was so successful that it grew from a single rented storefront to the
entire ground floor of the Hollywood Historic Hotel building. In 1997, Edmon bought the entire building. According to Mercedes, Edmon passed away six years ago, leaving his wife Vicky and son Edward to join with her in picking up their father’s mantle (pun intended): “It is truly family owned and operated,” says Mercedes, who has worked in the shop since she was 18. Consumers have come to expect custom products to be complicated and time-consuming to order. But according to Mercedes, this is not the case at Edmon’s. “We are the manufacturers of our products,” she says, noting how they eliminate the middleman. “We always tell people to come to our showroom first. It helps if they bring a picture of what they have, then we can talk about available options.” Customers can preview and select from a wide variety. “A cast stone mantel takes a week, and a wood-carved mantel takes four weeks,” says Mercedes. By Billy Taylor
Larchmont Chronicle
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July 2016
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Larchmont Chronicle
Design for Living
Karras refines music mogul’s bachelor pad By Brooke Stewart Neighborhood interior designer Christina Karras’ recent project is a sophisticated bachelor pad. Designed for a music industry executive, Karras wanted the home to have a sense of Hollywood glamour while reflecting the tastes and lifestyle of a successful bachelor. The entry is inviting with the late English decorator David Hicks-inspired, 1960s wallpaper lining the walls and ceiling. The bold use of pattern makes a statement but also draws focus to the centerpiece of the
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room, a vintage green table. The entry leads to the dining room. The room’s walls are simple compared to the entryway, yet the room stands out with its 1980s Pantone felt-covered chairs as well as a snakeskin framed mirror. The brass accents add a sense of subtle Hollywood glamour. The master bedroom displays a sophisticated aesthetic. The color palette features warm tones like cognac and whiskey. The walls are covered in a golden wallpaper, reflecting light which enters from (Please turn to page D-7)
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One Week Bath makes custom remodeling easy By Billy Taylor Does your bathroom need a facelift? This contractor aims to eliminate the risk and stress of bathroom remodeling with a business model focused on improving the customer experience. Meet Matt Plaskoff from One Week Bath. Industry insiders might recognize Plaskoff as the owner of Plaskoff Construction, a 28-year-old remodeling company based in Van Nuys, but you probably know him from his role as the lead construction consultant for ABC’s remodeling TV show, “Extreme Makeover Home Edition.” “In one way or another,” he says, “I’ve been involved in nearly 3,000 bathroom remodels.” According to Plaskoff, the bathroom is an area of construction where size doesn’t translate to ease, cost or speed. In fact, he explains, its complexity is measured in details and systems, not square feet: “It’s one of the smallest spaces in the home, yet it demands the greatest amount of detail and attention.” A new approach In 2000 — drawing from years of experience working with everything from milliondollar mansions to humble abodes — Plaskoff decided to create a new business ap-
proach to remodeling. He had an idea: “If I could just eliminate the excuses and obstacles in the process, my job would be fun.” Since then, Plaskoff says he has designed and remodeled thousands of custom bathrooms through the One Week Bath process, which “gives everyone involved in the project a sense of accomplishment.” How it works One Week Bath makes the custom bathroom remodeling process more pleasant through an “all-inclusive” custom design and construction experience. And every single item for the project is included in the contract, says Plaskoff: “There are no surprises.” The process begins with a short project questionnaire, followed by a 30-minute phone consultation to determine scope, style and a budget. After this is squared, a designer brings a mobile showroom to your home, which leads to a completed design, product list and a guaranteed price. On the scheduled start date, construction begins and your bathroom will be ready in just one week. “It’s that easy,” says Plaskoff. For more information, visit oneweekbath.com.
Larchmont Chronicle
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July 2016
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(Continued from page D-6) the back patio. The warm colors are “incredibly masculine” Karras adds – “perfect for a bachelor bedroom.” The guest bedroom diverges from the warm cognac and whiskey colors of the master bedroom with a navy-patterned wallpaper. The pattern of dark blue palm fronds is repeated on the curtains as well as the duvet. Karris remarks that she “wanted to create a retreat for guests, add[ing] layer upon layer of the same sensual pattern.” The dark pattern of the wallpaper is offset by a light wood floor, white closet doors and gold accents. The plants in the room reflect the floral pattern of the walls in
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Larchmont Chronicle
Design for Living
MASSUCCO WARNER MILLER recently designed a room in the Greystone Mansion Showcase House in Beverly Hills.
Design firm works out of bungalow on Larchmont
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Designers Melissa Warner homes across the country and Rothblum, Hancock Park, and the cover of books “Decorate Julie Massucco Kleiner each Fearlessly” and “Be Your Own worked at top design firms in Decorator.” San Francisco and New York MWM blends color and texbefore opening a shop in a tural palettes that range from bungalow on Larchmont Blvd. bold, stunning, and edgy, to Massucco Warner Miller soft, tranquil, and serene, says Interior Design Rothblum. and Decoration Vintage finds, (MWM), at 560 custom-gilded N. Larchmont, hand-embroiopened in 2014. dered wallpaper and well-made “We loved the neighborhood furniture result feel and sense of in a “beautiful, well-designed community on Larchmont. We home, and hapwere also inpy client, every spired by all of time,” she adds. the beautiful Design can architecture in seem overMWM designed entryway. the homes all whelming to a around us,” says Rothblum. novice client. The duo pride They joined as a team in themselves on respecting bud2008, after which they were gets and tight deadlines. named “designers to watch” For more information, visit by “House Beautiful,” “Tradi- massuccowarnermiller.com. tional Home” and “San Fran- Massucco Warner Miller Incisco Magazine,” and they terior Design and Decoration, graced the cover of “House 560 N. Larchmont Blvd., Suite Beautiful.” MWM has designed 101, 310-570-0084.
Larchmont Chronicle
JulY 2016
SECTION TWO
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Former Gehry architect brings modern design to Officine Brera in DTLA By Billy Taylor Los Angeles has always had a remarkable approach toward architecture, with examples of Beaux-Arts, Art Deco, MidCentury Modern and Modern architecture found within its sprawling neighborhoods. And in recent years, well-known architects like Frank Gehry (Walt Disney Concert Hall) and Renzo Piano (Broad Contemporary Art Museum) have continued this tradition with large-scale projects that have transformed the city’s skyline. Now, building on this legacy, one design firm wants to bring that kind of cuttingedge architecture to a restaurant and bar near you. (fer) studio The firm, “(fer) studio,” takes its name from the principles who describe its design philosophy: form, environment and research. Its founder, Chris Mercier, says he started the studio in 2002 to be a place rooted in modern design. Mercier was working for Gehry Design Group when he got the idea to start his own firm: “I was at Gehry’s for 10 years and I kind of wanted to do my own thing. I was feeling comfortable to make the jump financially, so it all just played out at the right time.”
RECLAIMED wood, concrete and exposed steel preserve the industrial character for Officine Brera in the DTLA Arts District.
It’s never easy to start a new business, but Mercier says he learned “you always have to start from the ground up.” When he left Gehry’s, Mercier had four initial projects lined up. “But within the first month all four projects, for various reasons, fell through,” laughs Mercier. This left him forced to pick up small residential garage and kitchen repurposing projects. “It was a challenge for the first few years,” he says. It was this work, however, that allowed (fer) studio to grow and begin specializing in restaurant and hotel projects. In 2005, Mercier was joined by another former Gehry associate, Douglas Pierson, and the
firm hasn’t looked back since. Based in Inglewood, (fer) studio now employees 14 people and is a leader in a wave of urban renewal across the city. Design approach Always a fan of Modernism, Mercier says he is also passionate about how contemporary work interacts with its environment. Through intensive research and the study of site and/or environmental conditions, (fer) studio aims to create a project that emerges as both appropriate and unique. “In regards to contributing to a culture as an architect, I think it’s better to look forward as opposed to being nostalgic and looking back,” says Mercier.
Notable projects In recent years, the firm has completed restaurant projects that include Father’s Office in Culver City, Connie & Ted’s in West Hollywood and the newly opened Officine Brera, located downtown in the Arts District. For Officine Brera, Mercier says the biggest challenge was to re-imagine the existing space—an early 20th century industrial warehouse building of masonry and steel that once housed the Los Angeles Gas Company. He wanted to preserve the industrial character of the 8,000 square foot building by using reclaimed wood, concrete and exposed steel, while creating a restaurant with a northern Italian vibe. “What was crucial was how to celebrate the scale of the room while at the same time creating a sense of intimacy,”
says Mercier. He worked closely with the restaurant’s owners, Matteo Ferdinandi and his wife Francine Diamond-Ferdinandi, and chef Angelo Auriana, who wanted a kitchen they could “go to town in.” “They had a vision of it being a fire-oriented kitchen,” says Mercier, “so the portion with the wood-burning appliances started to drive the scale of the space.” In the Chronicle’s March issue, Helene Seifer reviewed the restaurant and called it “stunningly beautiful in that hip, vibey way that only a renovated industrial space can achieve.” Currently, the firm is working with the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel to help redesign a rooftop event space for private events. For more information, visit ferstudio.com/studio.
Keller Williams Larchmont is proud to welcome back to The Boulevard three old friends … and one new one.
Residence:LA
“Welcome back, Steve, Champ, Mary Anne … and Leif!” Steve Senigram 323.828.3800 steve@residence-la.com
Champ Davenport 323.842.1539 champ@residence-la.com
Mary Anne Singer 213.910.5937 maryanne@residence-la.com
Leif Martinoff 310.895.0730 leif@residence-la.com
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JULY 2016
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Larchmont Chronicle
Initiate love of gardening in children The Friends of Robinson Gardens are seeking those with a love of gardening, and who enjoy interacting with children in grades two
through four, to volunteer as docents in their children’s program at Virginia Robinson Gardens, 1008 Elden Way in Beverly Hills.
RichaRd Battaglia’s PReseRvation noteBook
172 S. McCADDEN PLACE, HANCOCK PARK Baby Jane Slept Here
In 1928, Hancock Park was just a newborn baby. G. Allan Hancock sold bare lot #165 to Victor Marks and his wife Ruth S. Marks “in consideration of the sum of Ten Dollars ($10.00) in hand paid to him, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged.” The deed, as they did in the day, was filled with specific instructions for the construction of this soon-to-be-important house prominently displayed among like houses. The structure was to be”fairly worth not less than (a) $7,500.00 if said lot faces on Highland Avenue, $10,000.00 if the lot faces McCadden Place or Las Palmas Avenue, $16,000.00 if it faces June Street, $17,000.00 if it faces Hudson Place ...” The house has five bedrooms and a living area of 4,346 square feet. A center hall beauty built in the Mediterranean style, when finished, it was quickly sold. The purchaser was a single woman, Frances B. Milbank (widow of Nichols Milbank) who lived there until she became a widow again by the name of Frances B. Shayler. In 1947, the home was sold to Edwin W. Ross and Violet Ross, his wife. It was during the ownership of the Rosses that the house became wedged in film history forever. In 1962, Hancock Park resident and film director Robert Aldrich chose Henry Farrell’s novel What Ever Happened To Baby Jane as a vehicle for veteran film stars Bette Davis and Joan Crawford. Aldrich, who lived at 501 N. Cahuenga Boulevard (across from Wilshire Country Club), was an accomplished director for many classics such as “Apache” and “The Dirty Dozen.” He soon followed “Baby Jane’s” success with “Hush Hush Sweet Charlotte.” “Baby Jane” is a story about an aging actress who holds her crippled sister captive in an old Hollywood mansion. With a screenplay by Lukas Heller, Aldrich chose 172 S. McCadden Place for the home’s setting. Although all of the interiors for “Baby Jane” were filmed at Producers Studio (now called Raleigh Studios on Melrose Avenue), the real house on McCadden Place was utilized for exterior shots. A façade of the exterior was partially built on a sound stage at Producers Studios. During the course of the film, Bette Davis goes on a wild joy ride around Hancock Park, and great shots of Larchmont Boulevard circa 1962 appear.
MEADOWSCAPE at the Robinson Gardens, pictured right, blooms with bachelor buttons and other annuals and perennials from spring into summer.
In 1964, the widow, Violet Ross, sold the house to Basil and Esther Lustig for their family. Their son Bill Lustig, just a teenager at the time, enrolled at Los Angeles High School, and is now a fellow realtor with the John Aaroe Group. He is prominent in the Spaulding Square area. Bill remembers that his room was the one where sister Blanche was kept captive. He also remembers the time female impersonator Charles Pierce, famous for his Bette Davis impersonations, knocked on their door unexpectedly, wanting to see the house. The dutiful Esther Lustig showed Mr. Pierce around the place.
Historic Bullocks Wilshire building open house set
After the Lustigs, in 1972, the home was sold to Art and Sara Lumer. Art passed away in 1998 and Mrs. Lumer is still on title.
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If you have a house with an interesting history, I’d like to hear about it!
RichaRd Battaglia John Aaroe Group 323.422.7886 direct 323.315.7430 office rbattaglia@aaroe.com
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In 1991, a television version of “What Ever Happened To Baby Jane” was made with real-life sisters, Vanessa and Lynn Redgrave. That version was filmed nearby at 501 S. Hudson Avenue.
Docents are trained by the Robinson Gardens team of volunteers to lead children through planned “hands-on” activities that help them learn about home vegetable gardens, flowering plants, fruit trees and gain respect and curiosity for their natural environment. The Virginia Robinson Gardens is an historic estate on a plot of land that was first owned by the founder of Beverly Hills, Mr. Burton Green. Virginia Dryden married J.W. Robinson’s heir, Harry Winchester Robinson, in 1903; after which, they embarked on a three-year honeymoon. When they returned, the newlyweds commissioned Virginia’s father to design their historic mansion on the plot of sloped land. Upon Virginia Robinson’s death in 1977, it was bequeathed to Los Angeles County. If interested in becoming a docent in the children’s program, call 310-550-2087. To become involved in the Friends of Robinson Gardens and participate in other ways, go to robinsongardens.org.
The Friends of Bullocks Wilshire conservancy group is hosting an open house at the iconic building for the general public. Visitors will be provided tour pamphlets, helping them explore the historic landmark. The event will take place Sun., July 31 throughout the day. Tickets are $25 each. Constructed in 1929, the Bullocks Wilshire building was originally a department store but became home to Southwestern Law School in the 1990s. The building, which is a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, is prized for its art deco design, Lalique light fixtures, and artwork from more than a dozen artists. Money raised from the open house will go to continuing restoration projects for the treasured landmark. For more information, visit swlaw.edu/campus/building
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JulY 2016
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Building 209 on the VA campus was rehabilitated and adapted into apartment-style units and support facilities for residents. The project recently won a Los Angeles Conservancy Award.
(Continued from page 10) was trying to bring in revenue from federally-owned properties.” Vets and Bandini heir lawsuit In 2011, the ACLU Foundation of Southern California filed a lawsuit, Valentini v. Shinseki, on behalf of several veterans, the Vietnam Veterans of America and Carolina Winston Barrie (a descendent of Arcadia Bandini de Baker who deeded her land to the United States). Valentini was one of the veterans; Shinseki was the then-Secretary of the VA. The plaintiffs alleged that the VA violated the 1888 deed by misusing part of the campus for commercial purposes. In 2015, settlement was reached that incorporated a “Principles Agreement,” executed between current VA Secretary Robert McDonald and attorney Ronald Olson. The agreement memorialized the VA’s intent to prepare a new master plan for the campus to make it more Veteran focused. And that’s where William Fain and his firm, Johnson Fain, came in. After months of input from veterans and the community during a “Preliminary Draft Master Plan Comment Period” (including more than 100 meetings and over 1,000 responses in the Federal Register), Fain and his firm helped draft a master plan that is, at long last, moving forward. Draft Master Plan The West Los Angeles VA Campus Draft Master Plan recites goals of: providing supportive housing and other services on campus; giving veterans access to a more welcoming and healing environment in which to live and receive care, services and benefits; and working collaboratively among government, veterans, stakeholders and charitable entities to end veteran homelessness in Los Angeles. The Draft Master Plan brochure lays out the framework for the campus. According to the plan, key features will include Veteran Hous-
ing Neighborhoods that have their own supportive housing and neighborhood services, a Town Center located in the geographical center of the campus, and five Neighborhood Centers located throughout the campus that connect to each residential neighborhood. In May, the Los Angeles Conservancy recognized a beginning part of the plan, architecture firm Leo A. Daly's award-winning design for the rehabilitation of Building 209 that is located in the supportive housing neighborhood in the northern portion of the Draft Master Plan. A Reintegration Zone will be located in the current “industrial district,” providing opportunities for education and employment training, plus workshop and gallery space for the arts and an incubator space for nurturing veteran-initiated start-ups. A Medical District, south of Wilshire Blvd., will provide an array of in-patient and ambulatory care facilities, along with a variety of hospitality facilities for visitors and their families. Open Space and Recreation areas will be offered throughout the campus, including a ballpark and several parks. Veteran-centric The Draft Master Plan brochure also states that “the framework for development of the West LA Campus envisions a long-term build-out that focuses use of the site on housing and services for veterans, restores and enhances the site’s historic legacy, conserves and repairs its natural setting, and facilitates, encourages and promotes reintegration of veterans into civilian life.” Though the Draft Master Plan will take years to complete, Fain is confident that things are finally moving in the right direction. “This master plan is veterancentric,” says Fain. “Because of the efforts of many vets and their representatives and the descendants of Arcadia Bandini de Baker, this master plan is going to reflect the wishes of the original donors of the property.”
Draft master plan for the West Los Angeles VA campus features different zones, with a secure and protected community of permanent supportive housing, with its own neighborhood services, on the "high ground" in the northern part of the property.
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Bill Fain
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Larchmont Chronicle
MUSEUM ROW
Picasso's radical approach, Gronk opera staged at CAFAM LOS ANGELES COUNTY MUSEUM OF ART—"Picasso and his Printers" explore the artist's relationship with his printers, his radical new approach and his tendency to press the medium's boundaries. The exhibit opens July 23 and ends Nov. 27. • Hear jazz live Friday nights in the BP Grand Entrance; Latin Sounds music series is featured Saturdays beginning
at 5 p.m. in Hancock Park. • "Revealing Creation: The Science and Art of Ancient Maya Ceramics" is ongoing. • "Japanese Prints and Photgraphs: Paths through Modernity" ends Sept. 25. • "The Stowe Vase: From Ancient Art to Additive Manufacturing," compares a Roman vase with a 3-D-printed one. Exhibit ends Sept. 5 • "Royal Hawaiian Feather-
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work: Na Hulul Ali'i" ends Aug. 7. • "Reigning Men: Fashion in Menswear, 1715-2015," ends Aug. 21. • "Agnes Martin" ends Sept. 11. • "Robert Mapplethorpe: The Perfect Medium" ends July 31. • "Physical: Sex and the Body in the 1980s" ends July 31. • "Morris Graves: The Nature of Things" ends July 4. • "The Seductive Line: Eroticism in Early 20th-Century Germany and Austria" ends July 10. • "Islamic Art Now, Part 2: Contemporary Art of the Middle East" is ongoing. •"Senses of Time: Video and Film-based works of Africa" ends Jan. 2017. • "The Enigmatic Image: Curious Subjects in Indian Art" is ongoing. • "Miracle Mile," by Robert Irwin, includes 66 fluorescent tubes and is inspired by Wilshire Blvd. and his outdoor palm garden installation. LACMA is free the second Tuesday of the month. 5905 Wilshire Blvd., 323857-6000; lacma.org. LA BREA TAR PITS & MUSEUM—"Titans of the Ice Age: The La Brea Story in 3D" screens every half hour 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily in the 3D theater. • Excavator tours feature highlights of the museum and
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PRESSING THE BOUNDARIES with "Blind Minotaur Led through the Night by Girl with Fluttering Dove," 1934.
park, labs and fossil excavation. Daily. • Ice Age Encounters with a (lifesize puppet) sabertoothed cat are featured Fridays through Sundays; check the website for times. Free first Tuesday of each month except July, August. Wilshire 5801 Blvd., 323-934PAGE; tarpits.org. REMEMBERING AMELIA EARHART by JAPAN FOUN- making paper airplanes. D AT I O N — J a p a nema: films screen the sec- Fri., July 22, 6 to 9 p.m., $7 ond and fourth Wednesday of general admission. every month at 7 p.m. Free. • "People of Earth This is Your 5700 Wilshire Blvd., 323- Last Warning" performance 761-7510; jflalc.org. and reading adapted from the LOS ANGELES MUSEUM (Please turn to page 19) OF THE HOLOCAUST— Holocaust survivor speakers Sundays at 2 p.m.; tours are Sleepover, camp Sundays at 3 p.m. Pan Pacific Park, 100 at La Brea Tar Pits S. Grove Dr., 323-651- The La Brea Tar Pits and 3704; lamoth.org. Always Museum is hosting a sleepover free. giving children and their par KOREAN CULTURAL CEN- ents an opportunity to spend TER—Films, classes and cul- a night at the world-famous tural events. Visit website for archeological fossil site. listings. Children will be able to 5505 Wilshire Blvd., 323- explore the exhibits with the 936-7141; kccla.org. museum’s team of educators CRAFT AND FOLK ART as well as take a flashlight MUSEUM—Block print- tour of the tar pits and go on ing workshop, Thurs., July 7 a museum-wide hunt. from 7 to 9 p.m.; $8; free for The sleepover takes place members; includes materials, Sat., July 23 to Sun., July 24. snacks and drinks. Tickets cost $75 for both chil• Branch weaving with Mimi dren and adults. Haddon Sat., July 10 from 1:30 The museum is also offerto 3:30 p.m.: $7 for adults, $5 ing a weeklong “Adventures in for children and free for mem- Nature” summer camp. Campbers. ers grades K-8 will explore the • "Tormenta Omnia," Gronk's Ice Age, look at prehistoric bilingual staged theatric pro- Los Angeles, as well as learn duction showcasing his muse, and experience the different La Tormenta, is Sat., July 16, 5 roles of different museum p.m. in Spanish and 5:30 p.m. staff. in English. Actress Mariana The camp will be held from Montes sings original music. Mon., Aug. 1 to Fri., Aug. 5 • Yarn Bombing Los Angeles from 9 am to 3 pm. Register knit graffiti collective meets online now as spaces are limSat., July 16 from 2 to 5 p.m. ited. • "Theater of Sounds" sum- For more information or mer concert of an experimen- to register, visit Tarpits.org/ tal mix of music and sound is museum/programming.
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Library calendar
Therapy dogs, magic shows, puppy parties, 'tiny book' show Therapy dogs who are with "Beach Animals Reading with Kids," or BARK! are at area libraries this month. Meanwhile, the Fremont branch is having a puppy party as part of their "Read for the Win" summer club. FREMONT LIBRARY 6121 Melrose Ave. 323-962-3521 Children Puppy party: Make puppy craft projects and take turns cuddling puppies Thurs., July 7 at 4 p.m. Magic show: Illusion act with Allen Oshiro Mon., July 11 at 6:30 p.m. For all ages. Songs and stories: Thurs., July 14 at 4 p.m. Wildlife Wendy: See tropical birds perform tricks Mon., July 18 at 6:30 p.m. Olympic stories: Make a craft project and hear stories about the Olympics Thurs., July 21 at 4 p.m. BARK: Read books to trained therapy dogs who know how to listen Sat., July 23 at 2 p.m. Yoga storytime: Hear stories while learning simple stretches Mon., July 25 at 6:30 p.m. Finale party: Hear The Hollow Trees perform and celebrate reading Thurs., July 28 at 4 p.m. STAR: Storytimes for all ages with library volunteers Thursdays, 2 to 4 p.m.; Fridays, 1 to 3 p.m.; and Saturdays, 2 to 4 p.m. Teens Teen and tween book club: Read and discuss J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Hobbit" Sat., July 9 at 2 p.m. Face airbrushing: Get your face painted (nontoxic paint) Tues., July 12 at 3 p.m. Bag decorating: Decorate your summer reading club canvas bag with fabric pens Tues., July 26 at 3 p.m. Adults Book sale: Deals on used books, cds and dvds on Fri., July 1 from noon to 4 p.m. and Sat., July 2, noon to 5 p.m. Book club: Tues., July 19, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Dodgers ‘pitch in’ at libraries The Los Angeles Dodgers organization is pitching in with the Los Angeles Public Library’s summer reading program, “Read for the Win.” Contests to win Dodgers tickets will be offered weekly on the library’s social media sites. Hats and stickers will also be given away. For more information, go to lapl.org/summer-reading.
SYDNEY listens to kids read aloud Sat., July 23 at Fremont library.
Tiny book show: See a display of tiny handmade books from all over the world and take part in a hands-on bookmaking workshop Sat., July 30 from noon to 4 p.m. WILSHIRE LIBRARY 149 N. St. Andrews Place 323-957-4550 Children Chalk art: Have fun with chalk art on the sidewalk Tues., July 5 at 4 p.m. Bag decorating: Decorate your reading club canvas bag with markers Tues., July 12 at 4 p.m. Receive a lanyard. BARK!: Read to therapy dog Nigel Thurs., July 14 at 3 p.m. and receive a bookmark. Elephants from India: Craft program Tues., July 19 at 4 p.m. Children must be accompanied by adults. Bibimbap: Learn about the Korean rice dish and other healthy foods Tues., July 26 at 4 p.m. Sign up required. Preschool Storytime: For kids ages 3 to 5 on Thursdays from 3 to 4 p.m. Teens Teen reading club: A different fun activity every week Thursdays at 4 p.m. MEMORIAL LIBRARY 4625 W. Olympic Blvd. 323-938-2732 Children Winning stories: Karen Golden tells winning stories Mon., July 11 at 4 p.m. Stop, drop and read: Reading club meets Mon., July 18 and 25 at 4 p.m. Teens Lawn games: Play games outside Thurs., July 7, 4 p.m. Tie-dye: Tie-dye a T-shirt Thurs., July 14 at 4 p.m. Martial arts: See a martial arts demonstration Thurs., July 21 at 4 p.m. Chocolate Olympics: Teen summer reading program, Thurs., July 28 at 4 p.m. Adults First Friday Book Club: Discuss monthly book Fri., July 8 at 1 p.m. Call branch for title. Book sale: Deals on used books, cds and dvds on Tuesdays, 12:30 to 5 p.m. and Saturdays, 4 to 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday @ the Movies: Free film on Tuesdays at 5 p.m. Fun & Games for Adults: Board and card games and other activities Wednesdays from 12:30 p.m. on. Knitting Circle: Come spin a yarn and get knitting tips Saturdays at 10 a.m. FAIRFAX LIBRARY 161 S. Gardner St. 323-936-6191 Children Toddler storytime: Hear stories, sing songs and say rhymes Wednesdays July 6 and 13 at 10:15 a.m. Thor's reptile family: Meet amphibians, reptiles and more Thurs., July 7 at 4 p.m. Spy games: Solve codes and play other spy games Thurs., July 14 at 4 p.m. Mad Science Physics Olympics: Learn the science of how things move Thurs., July 21 at 4 p.m. Celebrate Rio: Finale party for summer reading programcelebrates Carnivale Thurs., July 28 at 4 p.m.
Library Hours
Mon., Weds.: 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. Tues., Thurs.: 12 - 8 p.m. Fri., Sat.: 9:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Closed Mon., July 4.
Teens Teen top chef: Compete with other teen chefs Tuesdays, July 12, 19 and 26 at 3:30 p.m. Adults Fairfax book club: Meets
Tues., July 5 at 10:30 a.m. Transformation: Learn about diet and disease Thurs., July 7, 6:30 p.m. Memory training: Take a UCLA memory training work(Please turn to page 19)
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Home & Garden
Jazz, world music, picnics, beer and tai chi all at Descanso
• Pruning • Construction
Music, food, fun Tuesdays through Thursdays, Descanso will be open until 8 p.m. for music, food and fun. Tuesday nights will feature world rhythm music for all ages beginning at 6 p.m. La Chamba, a local Los Angeles group, plays July 5. Adaawe, an international fusion of African, R&B, pop, jazz-funk, Latin, reggae and gospel, plays July 12. Eduardo Martinez y Su Palo present Afro-Colombian drumming and gaita July 19. MôForró plays accordion dance music July 26. Celebrate hump day at the Lakeside Lounge Wednesdays from 5 to 8 p.m. listening to
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the sounds of Flashdance DJ while wandering under the trees. Craft beer is available, along with gourmet hot dogs and other picnic fare. Relax listening to cool jazz after hot days Thursdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, as well as a picnic, or pick up something from Patina at Descanso. Nolan Shaheed, lead trumpet player for the Count Basie Orchestra, plays July 7. Heartbeat Brazil and Stephan Oberhoff will be heard July 14. Mark Christian Miller makes his onstage debut with his quartet July 21. New West Guitar Group with Sara Gazarek plays July 28. For more information, call 818-949-7980 or go to descansogardens.org.
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ROTARIANS Andi Ceragioli and, in the foreground, Patrick MacKellan, helped create a native plant garden.
Wilshire Rotarians tend to a garden at Queen Anne Wilshire Rotary Club of Los Angeles provided sweat equity and materials for a native plant garden at Queen Anne Place Elementary School last month. The two-day project was developed by Rotarian Christopher Cox with the support of TreePeople, students and teachers. The first day included removing non-native plants by Rotarians Bruce Striegel, Josh Rudoy, and Frank Fernandez. “Anything we can do to help a local school is near and dear
to my heart,” said Josh Rudoy, WRCLA’s vocational director. Day two included Rotarians Andi Ceragioli and Patrick MacKellan as well as Ray and Dia Schuldenfrei. The end result was an outdoor learning tool to be used for years to come. The plants will help attract native insects like butterflies and other local pollinators, creating a small nativeecosystem on the campus.
ALAKAZAM UPHOLSTERY & DRAPERY
Boddy House, enchanted rail It’s hot and dry and time for a day off. Pick a weekday — make sure it’s the third Tuesday of the month — and head to Descanso Gardens for their free admission day. Some of the activities available on free admission day include riding the Enchanted Railroad, visiting the Sturt Haaga Gallery, touring the Boddy House, as well as walking the gardens or participating in yoga or tai chi. The next free admission day is July 19. Roses, crape myrtle, and cassia are expected to be in bloom. Stop by the Visitor Center to pick up information on the way in or visit descansogardens.org.
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Wednesdays July 13, 20 and 27 at 5 p.m. Combine mindfulness with exercise at beginning tai chi classes Tuesdays; advanced tai chi is taught Wednesdays, both at 8:30 a.m. Take a docent-led walk through the gardens Saturdays and Sundays at 11 a.m. Children ages two years and older can hear nature-themed stories Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m.
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Come during the day to exercise in the garden. Stay into the evening to enjoy music under the stars at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr., La Cañada Flintridge. Wellness Start the day with yoga at 8:30 a.m. Mondays July 11, 18 and 25; Wednesdays 13, 20 and 27 and Fridays 15, 22 and 29. Can’t make it in the mornings? Try the evening classes
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JulY 2016
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Home & Garden
Cactus and succulent show, orchid talk and edible art at Huntington Little Explorers Kids ages five to 12 years old can cook, explore, learn about nature, make crafts and do other activities at Explorers Day
Koontz
“The hardware STore” formerly “Larchmont Hardware”
It’s a perfect tIme to buy a great bar-b-Que ….
CEREMONIAL teahouse has a tour every 20 minutes July 11.
a.m. to noon. Art and edibles Take a grand tour via one of the Huntington’s galleries, and then partake in a cooking discussion and workshop Sat., July 9 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Learn about recipes that use edible native plants Sun., July 17 from 2 to 3 p.m. Learn watercolor techniques inspired by Chinese brush painting Wed., July 20 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Improve your drawing tech-
nique while focusing on the art, architecture and gardens at the Huntington Sat., July 30 from 9 a.m. to noon. Take a tour of the Japanese Garden’s ceremonial teahouse Mon., July 11 every 20 minutes between noon and 4 p.m. Get exercise in the fresh air with tai chi, taught Saturdays, July 16, 23 and 30, 8:45 to 10:15 a.m. Listen to Chinese music in the Garden of Flowing Fragrance Wednesdays, 1 to 3 p.m.
Botanical drawing, evening music at Arboretum Work on your botanical illustration skills or hear music while enjoying the outdoors at
Native plant course at Payne Help maintain the grounds and take a comprehensive course on native horticulture this month at Theodore Payne Foundation, 10459 Tuxford St., Sun Valley. Clean up and prune the grounds at Volunteer Day, Sat., July 2 from 9 a.m. to noon. Bring a hat, gloves, kneepads and other small tools for personal use. Refreshments and larger tools, such as rakes and shovels, will be provided. Get plant advice and use your Payne discount at Payne’s booth at the Hollywood Farmers Market at Ivar and Selma Sun., July 3, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Take a comprehensive threesession course on native horticulture, sustainable gardening practices and landscaping Saturdays July 16 and 30, and Aug. 13, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Last day to register is Fri., July 8. Must show proof of taking the pre-requisite to register. For more information, call 818-768-1802 or go to theodorepayne.org.
Camp, Mon., July 11 through Fri., July 29, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 626-405-2100 or visit huntington.org.
the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Gardens at 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. Beginning and experienced artists are welcome at a selfdirected art workshop Mondays July 11, 18 and 25. Participants bring their watercolors, pastels or graphite to work on projects while being support-
ed by other artists. Hear the Pasadena POPS play music by Billy Joel and Frank Sinatra Saturdays July 9 and 30 from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Visit pasadenasymphony-pops. org to purchase tickets. For more information, visit arboretum.org or call 626821-3222.
come check out our beautiful new display of over 30 glass kitchen cabinet knobs by sietto. prices range from $18-$27. ask for patty! We have the full line of mrs. myers cleaning products, more than anyone else! plus, we are the only place nearby that has all the sizes of “soda stream” canister refills. you will love the new “Joseph and Joseph” “nest storage” containers. The sizes are color coordinated and the lids snap together so they are always easy to find try our “freezable grocery bags” so that the whole bag is an ice pack. Larchmont customers get free DeLIVery on bar-b-Que’s by mentioning this ad. We will be open on Friday, July 4 •10 am-4 pm. HAVE A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY!
310-652-0123 • 8914 Santa Monica Boulevard between San Vicente and Robertson in West Hollywood Weekdays: 8am–7pm, Sat 8am–5:30pm, Sun 10am–5pm ©LC0714
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Pick up cacti and succulents for your garden, learn about edible gardening or hear a talk on orchids at Huntington Library, 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino. Cactus and succulents Cactophiles can get an early start on summer gardening and the cactus and succulent show at an early bird sale Fri., July 1 from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Come back to see the variety of cacti and succulents on display at the Cactus and Succulent Society of America’s annual show and sale Sat., July 2 and Sun., July 3 from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. In the garden Hear a talk about some of the more exotic orchids in the Huntington’s tropical plant collection Thurs., July 14 at 2:30 p.m. Take a workshop on summer fruit tree pruning Sat., July 23 from 9 a.m. to noon. Pick up sustainable gardening ideas while touring the Ranch open house Sat., July 23 from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hear a discussion on writer Eudora Welty’s gardening letters Wed., July 27 from 10
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SECTION TWO
Larchmont Chronicle
Spades? Hearts? Which is your longest, strongest suit? Leading fourth best from your longest and strongest suit is a preferred standard opening lead in defending against a no trump contract. But how do you determine what your “longest and strongest” suit is? Look at the following hand, sitting south: ♠ AQ97 ♥ T6432 ♦ T6 ♣ T2 Here’s the auction: West North East South P P 1N P P 2N P 3N All Pass So what is your longest and strongest suit? Your longest is hearts, but it is woefully weak. Your strongest in terms of points is spades, but it is shorter than your heart suit. Which should you lead? The answer is that you should lead the heart three. Why? Because if hearts split 3-3-2 and your partner has an honor or two you have the possibility of taking three heart tricks. Here is the fourhand layout in this hand that was played in a team game.
Bridge Matters by
Grand Slam
North ♠ 532 ♥ QJ5 ♦ K542 ♣ Q95
West ♠ KJ8 ♥ 98 ♦ J873 ♣ KJ63
East ♠ T64 ♥ AK ♦ AQ9 ♣ A874
South ♠ AQ97 ♥ T6432 ♦ T6 ♣ T2
Bidding: As standard as standard can be. East opens 1N with 17 High Card Points (HCP) and 4-3-3-3 distribution. West invites with 9 HCP. East takes a chance and accepts the invitation and bids 3N. That makes the contract if South leads the spade 7, which is what happened at the
other table where this hand was played, because a spade lead gives declarer two spade tricks. Play: The best chance to beat the contract is to lead the heart 3, and hope that the four higher honors get played in the first two leads of hearts, giving you the ten to pull the last heart. In your favor, dummy did not bid Stayman, so you know she has less than four hearts, so the chances of the positive split for which you are searching are enhanced. In response to your opening lead, partner played the heart jack, taken by declarer’s king. She leads the club ace and then takes the finesse. Partner wins the club queen and properly returns the heart queen. N.B.: When returning partner’s opening lead when you started with three cards in the suit, it is proper to lead back the higher card remaining, not the lower card; that tells partner that you only had three to start with and in this case it also unblocks the suit; if you led the low heart, when partner got in you would be forced to overtake his lead of the ten with your queen and his remaining two good hearts
would go wasted. Declarer takes partner’s return with the ace (it doesn’t matter if Declarer ducks; partner will continue with the low heart). She takes two clubs and leads the diamond jack, which partner covers with her king, declarer winning the ace in her hand. She takes the two remaining diamonds in her hand (when south’s ten falls, her 9 is the high diamond out) but now needs to get to the board for her ninth trick to make the contract. Here’s the situation at this point:
North ♠ 53 ♥5 ♦5 ♣
West ♠ KJ8 ♥ ♦ 8 ♣
East ♠ T64 ♥7 ♦ ♣
South ♠A ♥ T64 ♦ ♣
The only way to the board is spades and when she leads the
ten, South takes his ace, leads the ten of hearts, pulling the last two hearts making the last two hearts in his hand good for down one. If your opening lead is a spade, you will never be able to set up your hearts. You must start with your first lead or you can forget about hearts. So the moral here is that when determining your “longest and strongest” suit in defending no trump, 95% of the time your longest suit is your strongest suit regardless of the high cards you might not hold in the suit. But in making this determination, you must hold cards in your hand to get the lead to make your small cards in your long suit good. This means you must be able to take at least one trick with a card in another suit. In this hand, it was the ace of spades (and maybe the queen, depending on the location of the king), which you must preserve until after you’ve set up the long suit. Grand Slam is the nom de plume for an author of a bestselling book on bridge, an ACBL accredited director and a Silver Life Master.
Marciano Art Foundation plans its premiere exhibit in 2016/17 The Maurice and Paul Marciano Art Foundation is expected to premiere its first exhibit later this year, or early 2017, according to a recent report in "Art News." Philipp Kaiser will reportedly curate the museum's inaugural exhibition of works from the Marciano collection. Kaiser is a former senior curator at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles (MOCA) and curator of the 2017 Swiss Pavilion at the Venice Biennale. The "Cindy Sherman: Imitation of Life" exhibit which Kaiser curated is now at The Broad.
The Marciano museum will open in the 100,000 square foot former Scottish Rite Masonic Temple in Windsor Square. The building at 4357 Wilshire Blvd. is undergoing renovation by Los Angeles-based wHY architects. The Marciano brothers purchased the property in 2013 for approximately $8 million. The brothers were among the founders of GUESS in 1981. The new owners of the Scottish Rite building are maintaining the exterior of the four-story building, with its historic murals and statues of Mason and Founding Father George Washington MUSEUM will open in the former Scottish Rite Temple.
among other statues made of Italian marble. A former 1,800-seat theater is now a massive three-story tall gallery space. The building was designed in 1960 by Millard Sheets, artist and designer of the murals and buildings for 50 Home Savings of America bank branches for financier Howard F. Ahmanson, whose Hancock Park home, originally the Albertson house, was described in the April issue of the Larchmont Chronicle. Maurice Marciano, president of the art foundation, also is co-chair of the board of MOCA.
Larchmont Chronicle
JulY 2016
Museum Row
MUSEUM—Sunday family programs include Super Hero (Continued from page 14) book, "Tomorrow You’ll be Week, which kicks off July 3 One of Us" by authors Chuck from 2 to 4 p.m. Boom! Wham! Rosenthal and Gail Wronsky Kapow! $1 off admission if dressed in superhero costume! Sun., July 24 at 3 p.m. Free • "Clay LA" annual ceramic "Free To Be Me Drum Circle" is sale and fundraiser Sat., July July 10 at 3 p.m. A "Happy 100th Ezra Jack 30 from noon to 6 p.m. • "Gronk's Theater of Paint" Keats" ("The Snowy Day" explores the artist's work in author) party is July 17 from set design from B-movies to recent operas. Ends Sept. 4 • "Windfall by Box Collective" features new furniture and functional objects by designers dedicated to using reclaimed and sustainably sourced wood. Ends Sept. 4. 5814 Wilshire Blvd., 323-937-4230; cafam. org; free on Sundays. PETERSEN AUTOMOTIVE MUSEUM— The DeLorean DMC-12 time machine, from GRONK'S "Tormenta Suite in 12," linoPhoto by Michelle Cho the 1985 film "Back leum cut. to the Future," is on display, courtesy of Universal 2 to 4 p.m. Explore sensory snow, make paper cats in Studios Hollywood. • Precious Metal silver cars, paper bags, and more! Disney/Pixar cars, and Micro- Make paper airplanes to flysoft Xbox Forza racing simu- in a wind tunnel on Amelia lators are among 25 exhibits Earhart Day July 24 from 2 to 4 p.m. Hear about the first on display. • Breakfast Club Cruise-In is female pilot to fly solo across the last Sunday of every month. the Atlantic Ocean. 6060 Wilshire Blvd., 323- 6505 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 100; 323-761-8984; zimmer903-2277; petersen.org. ZIMMER CHILDREN'S museum.org.
Fireworks, Harry Potter, Star Trek at Hollywood Bowl Patriotic music, fireworks, Chicago, Harry Potter and Star Trek are some of the sights and sounds this month at the Hollywood Bowl. Celebrate July 4th viewing fireworks and hearing the U.S. Air Force Band of the Golden West and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, conducted by Thomas Wilkins, and the rock 'n roll horn sounds of Chicago. Performances are Sat., July 2, Sun., July 3 and Mon., July 4 at 7:30 p.m. Watch “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” (2001) on a
DeaDline For The auguST 2016 iSSue iS fri., July 15, 2016
emploYmenT
giant screen Wed., July 6 at 8 p.m. while listeing to the Los Angeles Philharmonic playing the John Williams score, Justin Freer conducting, See the 2009 “Star Trek” reboot in high-definition Fri., July 8 and Sat., July 9 at 8 p.m. The Los Angeles Philharmonic, conducted by David Newman and accompanied by the California State Fullerton Singers, will perform Michael Giacchino’s score to the movie. To get tickets go to hollywoodbowl.com.
SECTION TWO
Scotland served quick and easy marriages, pre-1856 My grandmother used to talk about “Gretna Green” marriages. To what was she referring? asks Edna Fransom. I’m afraid Granny might have been gossiping about young couples who had run away to be married. You see, it was common practice before 1856 for English elopers to cross over from Northern England to Gretna Green, Scotland (only eight miles from the city of Carlisle), where young lovers could be legally married without license, banns, or minister. All that was required was a vow before witnesses of the couple’s willingness to marry. This declaration could be made in front of anyone – blacksmith, publican, tollkeeper, farmer, etc. In fact, the locals made a nice living on the side charging for their services. All this came to an end by an Act of 1856, which required one of the marrying parties to have resided in Scotland for 21 days. To this day, however,
Library Calendar
(Continued from page 15) shop Mondays July 11, 18 and 25 at 11 a.m. Friends of the Library: Discuss ways to support the branch Tues., July 12 at 11 a.m. Author talk: Phoebe Conn and archeologist E. Gary Stickel present a talk and slide show on "Helen: the Wine Dark Sea" Thurs., July 14 at 6:30 p.m. Quilters guild: Meets Sat., July 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Art of Living: Mindfulnees meditation and stress management Thurs. July 28 at 6:30 p.m. Book sale: Deals on used books, cds and dvds Wednesdays from noon to 4 p.m.
Gretna Green is still a popular place for weddings. •••
ProfessorKnowIt-All Bill Bentley
Why is a crabby person a “curmudgeon?” wonders Diane Crawley. A “curmudgeon” is not just crabby but is literally a grasping, miserly fellow. The word is the Anglicized version of the Old French coeur marchand — heart of a merchant. This, of course, implies both the miserly and grasping aspects of opportunistic, credit granting tradesmen to whom money was always owed. ••• How come a spotted horse is called “piebald?” queries Tony Bailey. Any mottled animal or, actually, anything that is of mixed construction or incongruous parts can be “piebald.” This term comes from the Middle English pie, which wasn’t just the name of a baked dish of meat or fruit, but also referred to the black-and-white speckled woodpecker or magpie. (In fact, anything multi-colored was called pied.) Because the white parts on these birds looked bald from a distance,
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the combination of the two terms was assured. ••• What’s the origin of the name of the word game “Scrabble?” ponders Traci Landsdowne. This very descriptive word wasn’t coined by the Depression-era inventor of the game. (He first called it Lexiko, then Criss-Cross words.) “Scrabble” derives from the Dutch schrabbelen and means to scrape or scratch frantically with the hands or feet. Apparently, the gamesman’s subsequent business partner convinced him that “scrabble” was both evocative and provocative. Professor Know-It-All is the nom de plume of Bill Bentley, who invites readers to try and stump him. Send your questions to willbent@prodigy.net.
Pushy Realtors
(Continued from page 2) “Being a real estate agent requires extreme self-motivation, perseverance, creativity, integrity and a competitive spirit. “Pushy is perhaps, the incorrect word,” she concludes. To get a second opinion, the Chronicle turned to Anne Loveland of Loveland Carr Properties, who largely echoed Woodward’s sentiment. “I don’t do it because I don’t want to be ‘that person,’” says Loveland, “but the reality is real estate agents work on commission and a strong entrepreneurial mindset is often rewarded.”
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SECTION two
JulY 2016
Larchmont Chronicle