XCentricLA

"Surviving The Apocalypse" A Burning Man Opera - Part 1

2011-11-20T15:42:00.000-08:00

Confess. You've never actually been to Burning Man, but you're curious. You really should've gone all those years ago when it began - before it became universally hip. Maybe you've peeked at the documentary, but face it, urban dweller that you are, you just weren't sure you could plan far enough in advance to manage all that desert survival prep and come up with a costume - not to mention a conceptual art piece to stage on the Playa that would impress all those other Burners with their internationally dazzling artistic and philosophical pedigrees. At this point you realize that even though among your cronies, you are considered to "know a thing or two," your references to the Divisionist painters are a bit rusty. Gads...I've been in survival world too long! Can one can actually lose one's art-school edge??? You break out in a decidedly un-cool sweat. Burning Man? Moi? One is felled by the sheer absurdity of the mere notion of attempting the concept - and you sink into your modular minimal sofa, visions of your over-30... (more likely, over-40 !!!) self, dancing naked with sand sprites and multi-colored mushrooms. Aaahhh!!

However...can you really tell your great-grandchildren that you missed one of the most significant artistic happenings of your generation?

The next best thing to being there!

So what's a last-minute Angeleno artiste to do? Fortunately, tonight, you can experience the whole "burner" scene live and in person...on stage that is...and freeway close! Finalmente, the Playa comes to you, in a safe, familiar nocturnal landscape. "Surviving the Apocalypse, A Burning Man Opera," commences at 7 pm at the King King cabaret in Hollywood. Part-theatrical event, part psychic portal, "Surviving" is a rock opera in the noble counter-culture tradition of "Hair", "Tommy", "Jesus Christ, Superstar", and "Rent." Yoni Koenig and Daphne Vega, producers of this latest staging (and also the production's designers) have helped the piece evolve from its original incarnation in San Francisco in 2009, to last summer's downtown L.A. loft performances. The current version is a beautiful adaptation of this cutting edge multimedia feast to an intimate, interactive setting, blurring the line between performance and experience. The piece consists of a wonderfully chaotic tapestry of styles; conventional musical theater, shadow puppetry, rock concert and of course, opera! Yes, Virginia, there is an aria. Placido, are you listening? Talk about tapping a whole new audience! (hmm...could a "Burner Boheme" be far behind?)

The rest of the creative team, all veteran Burners, is quite impressive. Mark Nichols (composer, lyricist, co-director), Stephen Hues (co-director, choreographer), Erik Davis (libretto, lyrics) and the talented L.A. cast and crew are a creative cornucopia, merging pop, art and entertainment. As Koenig brilliantly states, no matter how deeply you might delve into its meaning, "...the show is fun..." and appeals to both longtime Burners and novices alike.

Angelenos take note... the show itself, not unlike the famous event it is based on, bears an eerie resemblance to life in Our Fair City. Think about it. Where else would a bunch of really creative and amazing people gather in a desert and agree to embark on a wild, uncharted personal and artistic journey in a multi-dimensional evolving environment where the only constant is change itself? (...how's that for depth?)

Still on the fence? Smolder no more! Head down to King King this evening and treat yourself to a spectacle that is sure to alter the very nanofibers of your psychic self! Now, isn't that something to be thankful for?

"After-Burn"....(if you just can't get enough...)

Learn more about Koenig and Vega's creative journey through a series of video interviews in Part II. Click here!

For tickets and more info, click here!

See a video of the show!

Everything you wanted to know about the show!

King King
6555 Hollywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90028

After Burn...Interview with Yoni Koenig & Daphne Vega

2011-11-20T15:27:00.000-08:00

Daphne Vega

XCentricLA had the pleasure of spending a delightfully mind-bending hour with Yoni Koenig and Daphne Vega, producers of "Surviving the Apocalypse - A Burning Man Opera," which will be performed Sunday, November 20th, at King King in Hollywood.

Yoni Koenig

The pair bring a wealth of enlightened creativity, visual wonders and artistic innovation to this ground-breaking rock opera. Koenig and Vega, both longtime Burners, wanted especially to share the magic of this unique festival with a wider audience, many of whom have only heard tall tales of the bacchanalian "Burn." However, the producers stress that the show is an adventure in its own right; a compelling story woven with wit, humor and evocative music that is sure to ignite the bonfire within.

The plot is relatively straightforward - by unconventional standards, that is. A pair of Burning Man virgins are deflowered and psychically transformed by their communal desert odyssey. Part theatrical event, part son et lumière, "Surviving the Apocalypse" is an operatic ode to the famed annual experiment where art and community converge. The shows draws on all the grand theatrical traditions; commedia dell' arte, vaudeville, burlesque, musical theater and the irreverent spirit of the 60's. The result is a delectable array of soul, sound and sensation that is sure to alter your inner, if not your outer landscape.

Meet the Producers...

This 7 part video series offers a revealing glimpse of Koenig and Vega as they share the process of creating this revolutionary theatrical extravaganza. Bon appetit!

Click to view:

Part 1 - "Meet the Producers" - Yoni Koenig and Daphne Vega (4 mins)
Part 2 - "Once Upon a Porta-Potty" - How the Show Began (3 mins)
Part 3 - "All About the Show" (10 mins)
Part 4 - "I've Got a Barn" - A Unique Production Model (3 mins)
Part 5 - "All About the Burn" - The Philosophy of Burning Man (3 mins)
Part 6 - "To Live and Burn in L.A." - The Show and Our Fair City (2 mins)
Part 7 - "The Politics of Burning" - Why Now? (2 mins)

"City Sightings" - Space Queen

2011-11-14T11:48:00.000-08:00

Welcome to "City Sightings," where local Angelenos relate their unexpected - and often classic - viewings of global glitterati on the streets of Our Fair City.

Q: What southland suburb was graced by the Kings and Queens of Pop and Circumstance?

(On the left is a clue!)

Local resident, Larry, tells all!

Click here to reveal today's mystery sighting! (2:13 mins)

"Power to the Poster!" - The Center for the Study of Political Graphics (CSPG)

2011-11-04T11:23:00.000-07:00

"Art is not a mirror held up to reality, but a hammer with which to shape it." - Mayakovski

The great Russian poet definitely understood the indelible power of the arts when it comes to inspiring and affecting social change. Los Angeles and Mayakovsky have a lot in common, because Our Fair City is fortunate enough to be the home of the Center for the Study of Political Graphics (CSPG), the largest collection of Post World War II graphics in the country. This collection, lovingly compiled and curated by Carol A. Wells, is comprised of over 80,000 posters from all over world. These posters are powerful icons of the struggle for peace and freedom, and most importantly, our desire to share and create this dream with others.

Political posters, with their bold imagery and graphics, inspire us at a grass roots level, erasing language and class barriers. The good ones are able to crystallize and communicate an entire social movement in one image, one slogan. The political poster is just as necessary today as it ever was (alas!!), and because of today's technology, the power behind a single message can be felt instantly - by millions.

It is Carol's dream to make her entire collection of posters available online, chronicling and preserving the history of social change. In order to accomplish this goal, the CSPG is holding a special fundraiser this Sunday, November 6th, featuring two icons of the movement for social change: Angela Davis (60's activist and founder of "Critical Resistance", an organization committed to the elimination of the prison-industrial complex) and Rev. James Lawson (the man who taught non-violent civil disobedience to Martin Luther King, Jr.).

Yes, my friends, these are critical times. Knowledge is power, and having a collection such as this easily accessible will not only remind us of past struggles but also inspire us to move in the direction of positive change - a humane and meaningful existence for every citizen on the planet. So if that's something you believe in, the CSPG Event is a great place to start. Besides, how else would you get to hear Angela Davis and Rev. Lawson right here in your own back yard...not to mention Sonali Kolhatkar in person (yes, she's that voice you hear every day on KPFK's "Uprising"). So reach into your wallet and eke out a sheckel or two for a great cause - and a great party - with some cool, conscious folk!

Attend CSPG Event this Sunday!
LEARN more about CSPG in 4 short video interviews with Carol.
CSPG - The Inspiration (Part I) (4 mins)
CSPG - The Visitors (Part II) (2 mins)
CSPG - The Dream & It's Relevance (Financial Protest History) (Part III) (3 mins)
CSPG - Why is CSPG in Los Angeles? (Part IV) (2 mins)

Righteous Raiments - Aros Crystos

2011-10-27T11:11:00.000-07:00

Fashion Flash-Forward

The Sixties are alive and well at the CBTL on Sunset Blvd., thanks to Aros Crystos, whose flower-powered jeans can't help but stand out against the brilliant blue fall sky. His threads may sport a retro palette, but make no mistake, the concept behind these glad rags is entirely cosmic.

As the company motto states, Aros's designs are "Creative Playful Clothing Designed for your Unique Frequency." In fact, he personally consults with each client and determines which images and symbols represent their true essence. He then creates those images and hand sews them on each pair of jeans.

Custom designs don't come cheap, but lucky clients can stroll down the Strip knowing that their hip hiphuggers won't be seen on anyone else! So what are you waiting for? Grab a pair and match them - as Aros so stylishly demonstrates - with your own plastic-fantastic kaleidoscope of psychedelic KrishnaColor. Groovy enough for Ladies of the Canyon, Urban Rockers, part-time Reality Stars...or just plain folks!

Galactic Orgasm Designs can be viewed at www.aroscrystos.com where you will also learn that fashion isn't the only mode of expression for this Renaissance man. Aros, who is fluent in English, German and Swedish, is an author, a coach and a visionary who is committed to creating a radiant future for everyone - inside and out.

(P.S. No mushrooms were harmed in the penning of this missive!)

"Of Scrap and Steel" - Presented by LAVA and the Union Rescue Mission

2011-10-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

1948. Los Angle-eez, California. Arthur Hawkins, a hard-bitten steel exec, is fired from his cushy executive position for tippling on the job. He fails to recognize this flaw and is summarily tossed on the scrap heap of humanity - Main Street (aka "Skid Row") - alongside bums, alcoholics and homeless, unemployed vets.

Down and out for the first time in his life, Hawkins is fortunate enough to stumble upon the doors to the Union Rescue Mission where he is taken in, given a bowl of soup, a bible and over time, his self-respect. The film has a happy ending - he does get his old job back - but Hawkins doesn't forget the men who helped him get on his feet. He returns every evening to counsel newcomers and inspire them with his story, forging them into productive, happy members of society.

This 30 minute film was produced by the Board of Directors of the Union Rescue Mission. Made for the princely sum of $5,000, it was lovingly discovered and digitized under the auspices of URM archivist, Liz Mooradian. It is essential at this time to give a nod to LAVA (Los Angeles Visionaries Association and Richard Schave, Kim Cooper and Nathan Marsak), whose research on the URM archive led to this evening's event. Were it not for their many many hours of work - and their passion for L.A.'s past - we would never have had the opportunity to take this journey - in living color - to a noir-ish landscape that every L.A. historian dreams of.

Hawkins, convincingly played by Porter Hall (Double Indemnity...he's the guy on the train) is a reflection of the literally thousands of men who, since 1891 (then known as the Pacific Gospel Union), found themselves on the doorstep of the URM with nowhere else to turn. In fact, this film is closer to a documentary in many ways, as it records the truth of the people and places that surround the lead character.

The scenes of actual street life in 1949 are mesmerizing; particularly the faces of the real people (basically everyone else but Porter Hall) who populate not only the street scenes, but the soup kitchens, dormitories and chapel of the URM. We are most shocked at how eerily contemporary this piece is. After WWII, there was a housing shortage, and thousands of veterans found their way to Los Angeles, only to find themselves without a job and without a home. The Victory Service Club helped countless men with shelter, food and a job. The most notable difference between the URM of yore and today - and it is a lamentable one indeed - is that in 1949, the URM took in only men. Today, homeless women and children and/or families are making up an increasing segment of the URM population.

In fact, during the Great Depression (no, not this one, the one back in the 30's!) the URM served a staggering 42% of all meals served to L.A.'s homeless and destitute. Their commendable efforts of "forging scrap into steel" have flourished over the decades. The original home on Main gave way to the beautiful new facilities on San Pedro Street between 4th and 5th. Currently helmed by Rev. Andy Bales, the URM is firmly planted in the new century, maintaining its original vision while finding ways to adapt to our changing economic realities. Founder Lyman Stewart (of Union Oil fame) would certainly be proud of URM's lasting legacy.

Their success was recently rewarded with a beautiful new location on San Pedro St., complete with a stunning rooftop garden / event space where this screening took place. It is arguably one of the best skylines of downtown we've ever seen (the night of the screening was magical as the lights flickered on through the mist and clouds).

Take note all you event planners, you will be hard-pressed to find a more attractive and efficient venue for your charity / office party / private gathering, etc. In addition, the URM staff could not be friendlier or more helpful. There is even a van to take people to and from a nearby parking lot throughout the event schedule. Dinner was available for a small donation, which of course, went directly to the URM's population.

Stay tuned to the blog "In SRO Land" for an in-depth look at the locales featured in this film as well as material from the URM archives.

If you enjoyed this article, please consider making a donation to the Union Rescue Mission.

www.urm.org
www.insroland.org/urmposts
www.lava.org

LA as Subject - A History Happening!

2011-10-26T09:24:00.000-07:00

Talk about a kid in a candy store! A historical candy store, that is!

Take over a thousand people who love L.A., including 80 exhibitors (museums, archives, private collections), lectures, seminars, panels - add your favorite L.A. people and some chic swag - and you have the most fun an L.A. history junkie can have in one day!

Just saying hello to everyone in this past and present paradise takes all day, let alone checking out all the new exhibitors on the block and catching a seminar or two! Kudos to the L.A. as Subject team (esp. Liza Pozas and Tyson Gaskill who kept everyone on track)

.....(keep scrolling for classic videos !)

(left) Leslie Fischer, LAUSD Archive [Photo: Phyllis Hansen]

In case you weren't able to visit all the booths, here's your chance to meet a few of the exhibitors in person. Click on each of the following names to hear a short greeting! (P.S. We promise to get all of you next year!)

*NEW* Literary Map of L.A., "City in Mind" J. Michael Walker - Artist

*NEW* Archive at Loyola High School - Neil Bethke

*NEW* African-American Library / Film Archive Mayme A. Clayton Library and Museum - Leah Kerr

*NEW* Museum of the San Fernando Valley - Gary Fredburg, Fred Berk

Check out vintage Bunker Hill - Bob Pattison
LA Noir vs. the real thing 1947 Project - Nathan Marsak
MGM Costume collection at Culver City Historical Society - Karen Coyle and Fred Yglesias

LA Visionary Esotouric / LAVA - Kim Cooper

LA Visionary Esotouric / LAVA - Richard Schave
Look up your Familia at the Genealogical Society of Hispanic America - Cathy Romero

Vintage Glendale and special collections Glendale Library - Cathy Billings and Mike Shae
L.A. historian Mary Elizabeth - Archives Bazaar Visitor

America's Sweetheart Mary Pickford Institute - Hugh Munro Keely

Citrus Surprise The Myth of the Orange - David Boule
Why I love the Studio for Southern California History - Christian Linus

LINKS TO INTERVIEWEES WEBSITES:

http://archivesonabluff.blogspot.com
www.claytonmuseum.org
www.culvercityhistoricalsociety.org
www.esotouric.com
www.glendalepubliclibrary.org/special_collections.asp
www.insroland.org
www.jmichaelwalker.com
http://lavatransforms.org
www.laassubject.org
www.marypickford.com
www.onbunkerhill.org
www.scgsgenealogy.com
www.socalstudio.com
www.themuseumsfv.org
www.1947project.com

History Pin - "The Next Best Thing to Having Been There"

2011-10-22T08:00:00.000-07:00

Now AND Then

We are in History Heaven this afternoon as we are introduced to History Pin, a fun and fabulous new answer to the oft-posed question "what was here before?" Time travel meets urban exploration in a living "column of history" that contains a chronological bank of photographic information. These images are "pinned" to the geographic coordinates where the event took place. Even better, this fabulous (free) site allows the Common Man (and of course, fabulous archives, historians and historical institutions!) to upload his or her past in the form of video, audio and photographic images onto their giant map of the world. These "tagged" still photos and videos are accessible to anyone, anytime, wherever they may find themselves. Thus, contemporary "explorers" can now engage in a deep communion with the past, anyplace, anywhere and at any time. History buffs, are you drooling yet???

"Pin your Past to Posterity!"

It's easy to upload your own photos and videos to this global adventure. Just choose your classic pics and give the most specific geographic coordinates you know. HP will bring up a matching Street View (thanks to partner, Google) which allows you to position your photo in its correct spot on that street. If you only know the city, over time, other users might be able to assist you with accurate placement of this photo. Uploading and placement takes about :30 seconds and is user friendly, so there's no excuse not to play.

There's even an app for your smartphone so you can glimpse the past as you stroll through the present. If anyone's uploaded a photo in your area, a "pin" appears on the map. As you walk towards it, the vintage pic will magically appear over the current building or street scene. You can take and upload a new timestamped photo of this location to give future HP users a glimpse of your experience. Future developments include going inside buildings for detailed "field trips", custom-designed user channels and gaming applications. Privacy hounds take note - you designate the level of photo sharing allowed.

The 16 year-old boy test...

HP is a real boon for educators! Reports, which are notorious for being onerous tasks, become living tours that hop from city to city, adding narration, music and ambient sound effects. Stanhope told us about a group of high schoolers in the UK who were part of a unique HP pilot project. They had to interact with their older relatives, matching and comparing old photos of their town to the way it looks today. Both generations benefitted from this "time treasure hunt" in a dynamic combination of urban exploration and oral histories. Connections were made, "finds" were shared and most importantly a dialogue began between old and young that continued way past the life of that particular project. HP's founder says "It passed the 16 year old boy test," as the tough teen audience gave it a resounding heads up!

Thank you, Nick Stanhope - the wunderkind behind this glorious global venture - and John Voss, HP's tech wizard, for bringing history into the 21st century. Yet HP's real contribution is been a human one. They are connecting us with people, past and present, building cultural bridges that are much stronger and lasting than any "dry" accumulation of historical data. Certainly they recognize that more accessible we are to one another on a global level, the more necessary it becomes to find a personal, tangible connection to the people and places immediately around us.

HP's unique form of 4th dimensional mapping is creating a living, breathing column of history, which will grow richer and richer the more people participate. Even the word "travel" will change as we see our voyages crossing time and space, not only geographic locations. The concept of a museum, a place where history resides, will also be freed from its geographic tether. History can live alongside you 24/7, and is directly linked to your current experience. Genius!

Nick and Jon...here's a wish list from your fans!
As the technology develops, wouldn't it be amazing if we could "stand" inside that photo/video and walk/drive past any era we chose! Let us know when it's on the way!

In a nod to Grey Garden's Edie Beale...the line between the past and the present is indeed getting thinner all the time!

Visit, post and enjoy!

"Pin Your History to the World"

Nick Stanhope, founder of History Pin

http://www.historypin.com/

Signs of the Times - Part 3 - "Auto Lub"

2011-09-17T09:04:00.000-07:00

West LA Shabby Chic

That's amore....So Cal style. Nowhere on earth is the love for one's vehicle felt more acutely. And no institution could be more dedicated to the pursuit of our relationship with "the Angeleno's best friend". So in an odd turn of fate, economic angst does have its benefits.

Why bother lighting up that whole other letter when these three will do just as nicely? And if I do say, the passing motorist, witty Angeleno that he is, will grasp the humor, wondering why on earth they ever bothered with the letter "C" at all.

The Power of Birthdays - Honda Says Happy BDay L.A.

2011-09-12T15:47:00.000-07:00

Honda Celebrates L.A.'s Birthday [Photo: C. James]

While we were roaming the Plaza searching for Los Pobladores (the descendants of the first Mexican and Spanish settlers in Los Angeles), we ran into these really friendly folks, the Guys in Blue, wearing crisp shirts and baseball caps. Dodger fans? Not quite. Actually, they are from one of our biggest corporate neighbors from the South Bay who came all the way to El Norte to join in the festivities. They came bearing gifts - wide smiles and travel-sized bottles of hand sanitizer...(hey, after a bagful of sugary buñuelos, this small gesture was much appreciated). Apparently they do this often, showing up at community events, picking up trash, generally lending a hand and being good corporate citizens. Nice.

In fact, they were so helpful that they assisted XCentricLA's BDay posse in locating the brunching Pobladores, ensconced in a popular Olvera Street eatery, in a cool comedor, sipping their morning cafecitos after a long hike from San Gabriel Mission (see "Party with the Pobladores - Part 2" on this Blog!)

So, we thought we'd give the Helpful Team - Tamara, Peter, Andy and Teresa - a nod and a big "thank you!" Great meeting you all, and we look forward to seeing you throughout the year as we all celebrate L.A.'s 230th birthday!

Follow the Helpful Team on Facebook by searching "Helpful Honda" or "SoCalHonda".
Twitter feed is @HelpfulHonda.

IN N' OUT "U"

2011-09-12T01:28:00.000-07:00

"That's what College is...all about!"

Hey Pappy - Who thunk it?

Yo Mama - Who knew?

I'm goin' to college

at In-N-Out "U" !

Beleaguered high school seniors - and fiscally frazzled parents - take note! Relief is at hand! Forget applying to those institutions of higher learning that require you to have a double digit GPA, five trust funds and a Nobel Peace Prize just to get a foot in the door. Here is a college education you won't have to starve for! In fact, the food is on the house!

Face it, everyone has to eat. What better degree to get than one that guarantees you a job in one of many tasty locations throughout the Sunny Southland?

And just look at the student perks:

No pricey textbooks.
No expensive dorms.
No drunken frat parties.
No sorority snobs.
No boring lectures.
No piglet roommates.
No Freshman English.

The Parent Perk?
NO tuition.

In fact, they pay you to go there!

Yes, Virginia, there is a free lunch - and a Secret Menu! However, there is one tiny little catch...you do have to shine for a year on the burger line to be considered for this Double Double Degree, but how hard can that be? And you'd better have a GFA (Good Food Attitude), lots of people skills, and be 100 % committed to giving customers a BBE...(Better Burger Experience). Guys, you know what they say about a man in a uniform. Gals - you just might meet the Soda Jerk of your dreams. And, confess, those little paper hats are so deliciously retro!

All kidding aside, while your Princeton MA in Suicidal Literature just might snag you an intern gig at a nonprofit by Christmas of 2013, Betty the Bun is flipping her way to a six figure management gig and all the fries she can eat. So what are you waiting for?

This Institute of Higher Lunching is freeway close in Baldwin Park, at the 10 Freeway and Francisquito Ave.

P.S. Look posh after you nosh! Word has it the gift shop is to die for!

For the whole story, visit:
http://www.in-n-out.com/history.asp

Party with the Pobladores - Part 2

2011-09-07T19:06:00.000-07:00

Los Pobladores say "Feliz Cumpleaños, L.A.!"

It's not every day you can sit down for chile and chat with the descendants of the original settlers of Our Fair City. Last Saturday, XCentricLA had the pleasure of doing just that at the El Paseo Cafe on Olvera Street. These fine folk call themselves Los Pobladores, as their ancestors (Spanish and Mexican) made the trek to California from the northern Mexican states of Sonora and Sinaloa. They were led by Felipe de Neve, governor of the Californias, who was given permission by Charles III of Spain to found El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora de la Reina de Los Angeles del Río de Porciúncula (those Spaniards, they just didn't do anything half way!). Thus on September 4, 1871, eleven stalwart individuals (accompanied by four escorts and quite a few soldiers) arrived somewhere near Olvera Street. They were permitted residence and grazing rights to tracts of land, or ranchos, from which to spread their culture and civilization. In the meanwhile, they made a comfortable living in the rich agricultural region of southern California. A celebratory mass was said, and since the date was also a Catholic feast day, our city received its distinctive and beatific moniker.

Not ones to leave L.A. history to waste away on the pages of 4th grade textbooks, Los Pobladores, in commemoration of their hardy relatives, make a yearly pilgrimage from the San Gabriel Mission to Olvera Street. Fortunately, in 2011, they can relax post hike with a delicious brunch, air conditioning, and lively conversation! As you sip your margarita, it is quite sobering to realize that you are socializing with the relatives of the people for whom your daily commutes are named; Sepulveda, Higuera, Yorba Linda, Cota, etc. One of our fine fellow diners was a 9th generation Californian! No matter where these descendants dwell nowadays, the fact that they get together once a year - and are so welcoming to us mere 2nd generation natives - is a testament to their fiesta spirit. 3rd and 4th generation Angelenos must duly doff their sombreros in deference. (Yes, Virginia...natives are special!) Ex-patriate New Yorkers, take heart, word has it that XCentricLA is accepting petitions for anyone wishing to become Associate Angelenos (note: it is not necessary to give up your Manhattan coop).

Birthdays are generally an upbeat occasion, but this particular lunch was full of talk of the future of the remains of early settlers (Mexican, Spanish and Indigenous) that were found at the site of the oldest cemetery in Los Angeles, the Campo Santo near Olvera Street. As crews dug the foundations for a Mexican heritage cultural center, they came upon remains that most believed had been moved to another site in the 1840s. Since the discovery in January of this year, there has been quite a bit of delay, controversy and bureaucracy (civic and commercial) concerning access, ownership and proper disposition of the remains. The president of Los Pobladores, Maria G. Benitez, spoke to the crowd present on Sept. 4th, (in the presence of Mayor Villaraigosa and Councilman Tom LaBonge at a cake-cutting ceremony that day at the Placita) regarding their concern for the remains. She made it known that the organization is actively seeking pro bono legal counsel so that they can pursue a course of action (any committed lawyers out there with a love of history?) that will properly honor their ancestors - and make an important contribution to L.A.'s cultural heritage. As they say, "Ojalá..!"

"Feliz Cumpleaõs...Pobladores...y muchos más!"

To learn more about L.A.'s first settlers (or if you suspect you're related to one), visit:
www.lospobladores.org

To begin your research on the Campo Santo findings, start here:
http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=6324964641035115687&postID=4261774063936379979

A Mark, a Yen, a Buck or a Pound...

2011-09-04T01:11:00.000-07:00

It can't be that easy....or can it? ...The way we see it, thousands of years of civilization can't be wrong.

If you are in need of some extra cash (and who isn't these days?), mosey on down to Chinatown and give this ancient ATM a try.

No need for those slippery little plastic cards that jump out of your grasp and lodge themselves in smug defiance in between your cup holder and your fine leather upholstery. Say goodbye to tedious ID's, bulky wallets, and the beyond rude "Transaction Declined".

Behold the Future of Finance. Stand back, grab the mallet firmly and give the large metal drum a resounding "Bong!!" Didn't that feel good? Yes, that's how the big boys do it when they want some more dough. You're sure to be surprised as crisp bills rain down upon you like lotus blossoms in a blustery Santa Ana. As Confucius often said, "Fiscal Fear Today. Gong Tomorrow."

And that's not all. If you act now, we'll throw in "Gong To Go", available in Dashboard, Evening Bag or Wallet sizes!

But where exactly is this? And how do you place your order? "Ah...Grasshopper...you ask so many questions!"

(*Tap lightly for Quarters!)

(* Not responsible for cranky shopkeepers, irate neighbors or wooden nickels)

(** Not insured by the FDIC, IMF, USA, CIA, etc.)

BDay LA - Pre-Party with the Pobladores !

2011-09-03T09:05:00.000-07:00

James Walker - Californio, 1850

Dust off that old sombrero and Party with the Pobladores! In honor of tomorrow's Big Day, the Pobladores (descendants of the founders of the Pueblo de Los Angeles) will re-enact the famous trek that brought our first settlers all the way from the wilds of San Gabriel to the banks of the L.A. River!

Well, if you're reading this post, you missed the trek itself (this Angeleno slept in and decided to skip the serious hike from Mission San Gabriel)...but there's still time to catch the festivities when our merry band of settlers arrives at Olvera Street. Throw on your best Californio costume and head on downtown for a cafecito and churros!

Here's the agenda....and I quote:

"September 3rd, Our Annual March from Mission San Gabriel to Olvera Street will begin at 6:00 am at the Mission. Upon arrival at Olvera Station we will have a short program, then we will go to El Paseo Restaurant for a Brunch. Cost $20.00 per person. From 11:30 am until 1:30 pm. At 4:30 pm we will join the Knights of Columbus and other Catholic organizations in their Rosary at La Placita Church then a Procession to the New Cathedral, where a Votive Mass and Reception will be held. Please wear your Early California/Spanish/Native American attire.

For official info, please visit:

http://lospobladores.org/events/230th-birthday-celebration-of-los-angeles/

Happy Birthday, Los Angeles! But is the Story of the City's Founding a Myth?

2011-09-03T08:12:00.000-07:00

So, today's the big day! Or is it really???

(*Click on the title of this post and read a fascinating article on the subject, along with great photos/maps, etc., courtesy of KCET's SoCal Focus.)

Let's face it, this town has never shied away from controversy. But what Grand Dame doesn't fudge a bit when it comes to telling her actual birthday? And at 230, the details can get just a touch smoggy, can't they? Bottom line, she does like a party, and you need to set a date if you want your guests to show up. September 4th will just have to do until a few scholars get together and decide differently. Or we could all be democratic and vote in some other date in 1781. But until that takes place, in the words of childhood LA icon Sheriff John, "Put another candle on the Birthday Cake, you're another year old today!"

I'm sure most of you will admit that 230 must be the new 30....as El Pueblo de la Reina de Los Angeles is looking pretty good after all these years. She doesn't have too many wrinkles (other than a few major freeway lines), and has led the way when it comes to health and fitness. Bueno...she smogged for a few years and still enjoys a puff or two on a hot summer day...but she has cleaned up her act a lot, especially in the winter. She is still a beauty - especially on a warm summer evening when the Santa Anas blow, and you can see all her jewels glittering across her elegant black velvet gown. She loses her temper every once in a while just to shake us up, but in between, her graciousness welcomes everyone - no matter their station - and invites them to enjoy her hospitality for a few days, years or even a lifetime. She is a wise madre who knows how to handle even the most rebellious son who announces a move to another coast. "You will return, m'hijo," she nods, knowing that a true Angeleno never really feels at home anywhere else. To those who have criticized her headstrong ways or her lack of sophistication, she just smiles, knowing that in the end, her worth lies in things of the spirit. Although many of her guests have done so, she has never mistaken a house for a home, knowing that the ambiente is far more important than whatever transitory thing you put in that space.

More than one casual observer has noticed that "her charms, while never trumpeted, have a way of sneaking up on you when you least expect them to do so. At sunset, her favorite hour to hold court, you are allowed to sit at her feet and witness the light emanating from her eyes that casts a most magical hue over all things natural, turning them from clay to deepest coral, from mud to magnificent magentas and purples and from straw to spun silver and gold. Surely a monarch as entrancing as She could encourage her subjects to cast out any other affections their mortal hearts might have had to lands of their birth, and replace those with immortal longings for her pacific beauty."*

One has to admit, La Reina has a great sense of humor, style, irreverence and tolerance for all that's come to pass under her reign. She's still full of surprises though, and isn't tipping her cards as to what adventures she has in store for us over the next hundred years.

So pour a glass of champagne and pass the pastel... bring on the mariachis and a rousing chorus of "Las Mañanitas". And as a nod to those original Pobladores...who after all, did "claim this land for Spain"...shout Olé for old times' sake. Then throw off your shawls and sombreros, kick up your heels and party like it's 1781!

Viva La Reina! May her rule over the Ranchos continue for hundreds of years to come.

[* extracted from the dubious diaries of Delaware dentist and horticulturalist Horace de Pugh, whose entries upon entering Our Fair City are known for their effusive praise and blossoming literary style. Horace's spinster sister, Lamoyle, was a champion of the early Temperance movement and ran a boarding house for "Young Ladies of Good Repute". Despite the society of his sibling, Horace remained a bachelor, claiming that his affections - assuredly platonic - for El Pueblo de La Reina de Los Angeles, far outweighed any earthly entanglement.]

For more scholarly information, please visit:
http://www.kcet.org/updaily/socal_focus/history/la-as-subject/birth-of-the-pueblo-of-los-angeles-los-pobladores-and-la-as-a-spanish-colonial-outpost.html

Vapineze Wheeze

2011-09-03T01:11:00.000-07:00

"No...I did not inhale..."

[Voice of Patrick Bacchau]: Tonight's program is brought to you by the makers of Vicks Vapo-Rub - "Whether you're eighty, or whether you're six, when you've come down with croup, slap on some Vicks"

[Voice of Sultry Flemme Fatale]: Thanks, Patrick. And now...Episode 1 ...

[Hardbitten Girl Reporter]: Not enough allergens in the air for you Angelenos? Smog just not cutting it anymore? Need some extra noxious vapors to get through the day?

Visit the mysterious overgrown home/office/whatever on Fairfax and bid your respiratory troubles goodbye. "Asthma Vapineze", as the ancient neon sign says, conjures images of a 1950's science fiction Vicks vaporizer. Cumulous curative clouds sputter and spew into a musty clinic where hacking Hoosiers seek refuge from dust mites and crop dust. "Grab your inhaler, Virginia..it's going to be a croupy night."

"In Vapineze did Kubla Khan a stately asthma dome decree..."

Voted hands down as the "Grey Gardens" of West Hollywood, A.V. is enveloped by highly allergenic plant life - strangling succulents, man eating ferns, night stalking jasmine. A metal gate separates us from those that lie within. Windows are shuttered - as one might expect - the ancient venetian blinds shielding us from an unsettling triple feature; Baby Jane meets Psycho meets Gaslight - with cats. Nothing like cat hair to get an allergy attack under control.

"Face it, Asthma Vapineze is virtually choking with weirdness," quipped a neighbor, scurrying away from the enshrouded edifice.

Surely the good doctor who long ago and far away coughed up this miracle method envisioned himself as a pulmonary Pasteur. Little did he know that decades later, his bungalow would be the object of the dark and cynical imagination of curious Angelenos. Who knows how many...if any, entered this dubious sanatorium, or exited, for that matter. If only one had the courage to knock loudly upon the gate. If only one had the fortitude - or the mid 20th century technology (i.e. pen and paper) to leave a note requesting an interview. If only one weren't just the slightest bit convinced that one would wish that whoever...or whatever answered the door would go straight back inside and never darken the daylight again.

Thus another afternoon passes leaving us no closer to this unsolved mystery. Can we breathe freely knowing that its provenance is unknown? Are we merely to gasp at its arcane signage and wonder? Maybe, just maybe... someone inside...or someone who knows someone inside...might see this post and put our fears to rest, "Don't be ridiculous. Mr. Trachea is a retired philatelist who hates the sun."

Then again, maybe not... in which case we are going to hope that he/they/it never ever read this. And if they do....disclaim everything.

"Sorry...honest...we really would've liked to ring the doorbell and ask you in person...if only there was a doorbell...? One that we could see...?

What will probably happen is that next week we'll read about this place on CurbedLA as some long lost "Tubercular Moderne" that's in danger of being being turned into a health club. It might be sooner than we think...maybe even as I write and rasp....

OMG...there's a meter creature stalking my car! As if the city doesn't have better ways to waste their time. Like sending a swat team over to "Azzzz-mah Vay-puh-neeeeze" and just storming the place out of sheer curiosity. Or paying a gardener to take a weed whacker over there so we could get a good look.

(A familiar looking white utility vehicle pulls up to the curb. A beefy civil servant exits. The reporter jumps out of the foliage)

"Hey...YOU! You can't give me a ticket! I'm a political refugee!!!"

"You one of them Vapineze Vandals? I heard all about you people."

"You leave my car alone or I'll...I'll huff and I'll puff..."

(The Meter Creature, freaked out, exits stage left)

It worked! Who knew? (looking at watch) Eight-fifteen! It was seven fifteen fifteen minutes ago!?! Sorry guys... gotta run! (whispering) Keep me posted if you find any intel on the you-know-whos in you-know-where...!

[Voice of Patrick Bacchau]: And so ends another inconclusive episode of "Moon over Miasma". Back to you, Ms. Flemme]

[Voice of Flemme Fatale]: Thank you. I was hoping you'd say that....Oh wait, that's not all she wrote...(annoyed) hmmm.

[Voice of Patrick Bacchau]: Don't worry, Flemme...I'm not interested in her. She's nothing but a hack.

[Voice of Hardbitten Female Reporter]

PS...Arkady...in case you read this...tonight, when I was 45 minutes late for dinner...I really wasn't stuck in traffic. I was crawling through the underbrush searching for my inhaler and trying to take down a meter maid.
PS2...If this is going to last more than two weeks, you might as well know this about me. I can't resist a classic L.A. story. I'm a total field trip junkie.
PS3.... I can't help myself. Not even for a guy with a real job, a full head of hair and dental insurance!
PS 3.5...So there. Take it or leave it.
PS4...Is your cousin really related to a famous Russian rock star?

Swansong for a Seaside Shanty - Trancas' Last Wave

2011-09-02T01:11:00.000-07:00

A sad day indeed, as Trancas Market in Malibu now joins the growing "Things That Aren't Here Anymore" category. Originally called the Malibu Trading Post, then Trancas Market, the HOWS corporation took over in 2000 and changed the name. However, over its long years of faithful service to the community at large, at least the building remained relatively the same.

Prior to the advent of the Cross Creek malls, Trancas was the only game in town. This coastal icon has, for over 50 years that I know of, served as an exotic watering hole for generations of residents and weekend visitors. An oasis, if you will, amidst the dusty chaparral of the Santa Monica Mountains. Even the name, "Trang-kus"...rolling off the tongue in the West Coast dialect, reeked of poetry - bikers, drifters, surfers, beach bums and old ranchers who'd left civilization behind. A visit to this sandy outpost and you were sure to find a rebel without a cause. Never mind the fact that this writer was way too young to have ever been allowed in the same room with such a character - but you knew it was possible.

If your beach adventure led you this far up the PCH, you would either begin or end your excursion with a visit to this market. On the way to the beach, it was cold sodas, Coppertone lotion (who can forget that smell?), flip flops, sunglasses, Tiger Beat, candy and sandwiches. If you were heading home after riding the waves, you would run in for a farewell Eskimo Pie and a chaser of Tab. For this urban Angeleno, Trancas was the end of the line - as far as you could get from the smoggy summer of '68...or '72. Adventure awaited as soon as you caught sight of the famous sign. I envisioned a scene not unlike this one.

EXT. BEACH - DAY - 1968

A 14 year old Flower Child sits on the beach, reading Tiger Beat and snacking on Bugles. A young hippie, oddly enough, also 14, approaches in tie-dyed shirt and fringed leather jacket. A guitar is slung over his shoulder. He maintains a studied shade of cool and tries to break the ice.

Headin' up the coast?

Yeah.

Hitchhiking?

Huh? I don't think my mom would let me. [Did I just say that?] I mean, I'm driving.

Where to?

Maybe Frisco. Or Ventura. [Not sure which one comes first. Oh well]

You like music?

Yeah.

(looking at her magazine) The Cowsills??

No. (turning the page) They're gross.

Yeah, right. (pause) So...

Huh?

I know this cool place up the road.

Oh.

Got a pretty nice view.

Hm.

Lot of locals hang out there.

Do you hang out there? [that is way too desperate...too late now]

Maybe.

[silence]

So, you wanna...uh...go up there and...get a Fresca or something...

By myself?

I mean with me...or something?

Sure. [ever the urban sophisticate] So where are we going again?

Trancas.

Trancas? What's that?

It's a place where they sell stuff.

Like a store?

Yeah. Trancas Market.

Trancas. I like that. It's deep. [Last heard on Room 222. Not sure if that applies to markets?]

Yeah. Sure.

So? We're going, right?

Yeah.

Groovy.

Alas, the days of romance, wanderlust and beatniks are past, and in their wake there are homeless people and abandoned storefronts. Hard economic times are always poison to neighborhood businesses such as this, and plans are already underway to develop the site. And so the wheels of progress turn. Somehow I can't imagine the same scene taking place outside Best Buy.

So light a candle and nod to a simpler time. All things must pass.

For details, please visit:
http://malibusurfsidenews.com/stories/201108/201108040001.html

All That Glimmers - Judson Glass Studios

2011-09-01T01:11:00.000-07:00

Residential Stained Glass Window // Glass Sampler

Nestled in the Arroyo Seco in Highland Park lies a grand tradition of artistry, craft, dedication and familial persistence. Since 1897 the Judson family has created stunning stained glass windows for religious and secular institutions throughout Los Angeles and abroad. The founder, William Lees Judson, was already a noted California artist when he recognized the need for local stained glass. His three sons were employed to set up the new business and make it a success. The motto that lies over the front entrance, "We Can", sets the tone for the spirit of pride in workmanship that has kept this Studio in business for over a hundred years.

Yes, We Can!

LA aficionados have spotted many of the Judson's windows throughout the city. Those lucky enough to possess a Judson window in their homes are bathed in the rich colors and detailed brushstrokes that have kept the Judson Studio at the forefront of this magical tradition. Notable private residences include Frank Lloyd Wright's Ennis and Barnsdall houses. Judson Glass also restores stained glass windows from all over the world, as well as designs and crafts fine mosaics. Their artisans ply their trade in a classic Craftsman that - thus far - amazingly resisted time, change and the occasional earthquake.

William Lees Judson

Entrance [Photo: Phyllis Hansen]

Each studio workroom is suffused with natural California sunlight. The rooms have a "lived-in" feeling, and craftsmen deftly go about their individual specialities - cementing, glass cutting, painting, firing, using the same types of tools that were employed in its inception. A nod to the modern era, however, has taken place, and the Studio has incorporated the use of technology to perfect and facilitate their time-honored techniques, completing design mock-ups with the use of photo and illustration software.

Delightful mottos ("No Steps Backward" and "Only the Best is Worthwhile") grace the workroom walls in beautiful script. You have only to chat with the craftsmen to see that their entire being, from the agility of their hands, to their unerring eye for beauty and perfection is invested in each individual piece. Yet their modesty and deference to the team both charms and impresses. It is mesmerizing to watch each of these artisans work. They are so friendly and patient, willing to explain the arcane processes to the curious layman, knowing that understanding will only enhance their appreciation.

Robert [Photo: Phyllis Hansen]

SEALING

Robert explained the intricate process of sealing the lead to the glass, pushing the cement thoroughly inside all of the gaps. If done correctly, this prevents weather damage to the window and its eventual costly repair. Judson Glass, because of their high standards and talented workers, is often called upon to repair stained glass windows all over the world.

PAINTING

Yuri's perfectly straight lines are painted using a type of line tool, and the results are amazing! The black paint is made using ground glass, which is applied to the glass and then either concentrated or watered down to achieve shading and variation in the thickness of the brushstrokes. Originally from the Ukraine, Yuri shares his studio space with Sean, and together they are responsible for the life-like, dimensional quality of each of the delicate faces painted onto the glass figures. If a mistake is made, they merely wipe off the paint as it is not "fixed" until the piece is fired and properly sealed.

Judson glass is a real gem that's waiting for you to discover.
Don't miss it!

Sean and Yuri

Religious works can be seen at:

St. Charles Borromeo, North Hollywood
St. Alban's, Westwood
Em Habanim Sephardic Congregation
- North Hollywood
Holy Virgin Mary Coptic - Highland Park
St. Paul's Lutheran - Santa Monica
First United Methodist Church - North Hollywood

Secular works can be viewed at:

Natural History Museum - Los Angeles
Fire Station 78 - Studio City
USC Town & Gown - Los Angeles
Chatsworth Library
Azusa Pacific University - Azusa

Judson Studio

Can't get enough? Visit the gift shop! Feel free to visit their website (it's great!) to learn more or schedule a tour.

http://www.judsonstudios.com/

Signs of the Times - Part 2

2011-08-30T13:11:00.000-07:00

It's that time again. The moment when pop technology takes another turn and we begin to see a heretofore unknown symbol become instantly recognizable and comprehensible to millions of people. A couple of years back and those random little squares clumping into billions of coded patterns would've looked like crazy Cubist needlepoint.

These markers of progress used to drop in at much longer intervals, like millenia or centuries. You could get used to the newfangled contraption or concept without having to worry about another one coming down the pike - at least not in your lifetime. Years went by just to figure out how to incorporate said gadget/idea into daily existence, then even more years to analyze whether or not it was any good. Fathers could relate to sons, since both of them still wrote with a quill. Yes, once upon a time it was simpler, and it wasn't a full time job just keeping up.

Now, let's review and see how "far" we've come.

The alphabet...The book...musical notation...the clock...Morse Code....QWERTY.......TV...The peace symbol...ATM...QVC...$$$...the "@" symbol...emoticons...LOL...WiFi...the little white apple...etcetera, etcetera, and on an on in a steady stream of evolving acronyms and pictographic shorthand with which to continually minimize and supposedly simplify our communication with one another.

So what's the problem? Answer - now there is a new one every five minutes...well, almost. And that's about 525,600 too many.

This might all be dandy if you're 22. But a certain point in one's lifetime, about the time that you start getting fan mail from AARP, it becomes more and more tedious to process them all, let alone adopt them into one's day to day and figure out how they are supposed to make one's life easier, better, faster, more in step with 'everyone else' (who "they" tell you are already doing this). My father couldn't fathom call waiting, let alone Microsoft Word. He crossed the millenium clutching his bottle of "White Out", an IBM Selectric humming in the background. My own mother has never touched a computer keyboard. And while I have ventured further into future shock than any of my predecessors, there will come a time...one imagines...when you just don't get it anymore. You'll turn to your son or grandchild and sigh, "Oh no, honey, I'm doing just fine with my sky car...you don't have to buy me one of those new-fangled transporter things!"

I know I am starting to sound like a Luddite, but I've just spent the better part of a commute down PCH wondering if/how/why the QR code will transform my humble existence. Was it so hard to call the number on the sign? Admittedly, it is easier to call it from your cell phone, the second you pass it, instead of jotting it down on the back of the Thomas Guide and waiting 2 hours until you got home. Or, god forbid, type the URL (see...there's another one!) into your browser and find it online. No, now I have only to point my phone camera in the direction of our enigmatic pattern and voila...a myriad of wondrous information on the house / car / event / food item will magically appear on my screen, enticing me to do something / spend money / sign up or share this thing with the 650 "friends" that only sporadically - and at that, mostly virtually - enjoy my companionship. What's next? A coded chip in my hand that will only require the most nonchalant imperial wave to send technicolor full-motion 6-D action-packed adventures crashing into my limited 3-D present.

And of course, we cannot forget the insidious dark note embedded in all these entertaining, time consuming modernisms...the constant and unsettling fact that the second we decide to "play" - and we already have (I'm blogging, for god's sake!) - our every thought, action and inclination - past and present - now belongs to people other than ourselves or that we would ever chose to be privy to such data. Talk about selling your soul - click by click, all wrapped-up and timestamped and GPSed, available for some inscrutable, unsettling end. Let's face it, "They saw what you did, and they know who you are." Soon your credit cards will be charging you in advance for things they think you're going to buy! Don't laugh, it's just around the corner.

So, what's a conscious individual to do? If you decline the dubious opportunity to turn on and tune in, it doesn't necessarily follow that you will be allowed to drop out. No one likes it when someone decides not to play - particularly not if he's a consumer. One solution might be to not spend too much time worrying about what is already known about you and a lot of time striving for the ultimate in future social chic... Un-Mutuality (nod to Patrick McGooghan, who wrote the book on this). Think of how cool you will be when you profess not to need to "stay in touch" with everyone on the planet - except for a very few...exceptional...favored...and invited members of your inner circle. Who knows, you might even have them over for a real dinner party, like they used to do in the old days. Interesting, isn't it?

*Click on this image. Nothing will happen. Or will it?

** ^^ ~`~`
<++>^^^
^>^<**+

Go West, Joven!

2011-08-28T10:51:00.000-07:00

"Oye, vato...the West Side is not so bad. Lots of gente... sitting around...conversando about arte...literatura...la política...reading and sharing libros, 'mano......just like we've always done back home in Boyle Heights!"

Libros Schmibros has moved into its Westside vacation home at the Hammer Museum, bringing its cooperative spirit and literary joie de vie. Opening day festivities included the festive presence of owner David Kipen, numerous new converts and hundreds of donated books. Up on the wall was a brilliant new literary map of L.A., "City in Mind: A Lyrical Map of the Concept of Los Angeles" by L.A. artist, J. Michael Walker...and of course, our gallant greeter, mi amigo, Señor Calaca (engrossed in a non-virtual libro)...by papier mache angel Johanna Aguilar.

J. Michael Walker and LS

Fante on Bunker Hill

While people poured over books, others paused to "read" the art contained in the 23 foot mural. Our favorite authors appear in their L.A. habitats, with favored phrases on Our Fair City etched alongside them; Huxley hovering above the Hollywood Hills, Didion leaning over the edge of California, peering into a Hockney pool, Fante lamenting the romantic dilemma in front of a Bunker Hill boarding house.

Libros Schmibros will be in residency at the Hammer through October 9th, and is open from 11-7 pm. Now that's my kind of schedule! Before, during and after your visit, be sure to enjoy both the lounge outside the front door and the soothing garden and café upstairs - it's a great place to read your new finds - and see what everyone else is reading!

"Schmibros & Schirmer" - David Kipen & LS

A series of deletable events are planned throughout the month - including a visit by Boyle Heights historian George Sanchez, Mike the Poet (who is the audio version of L.A.), diva Sharon Sekhon from the Studio for Southern California History and an all-day participatory reading of "On The Road" (ah...youth!).

Concurrent festivities are also planned for Boyle Heights - so take a Field Trip already and go see where it all began! Congrats to "Libros" for realizing that reading is a social activity... and for making it so much fun for all of us to convene!

For more information, visit the following sites!

Libros Schmibros

http://librosschmibros.wordpress.com/

J. Michael Walker

http://www.jmichaelwalker.com

Johanna Aguilar
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vdHHOnoQ4K4

Hammer Museum
http://hammer.ucla.edu/residencies/detail/residency_id/26

"and, per se and"

2011-08-26T15:27:00.000-07:00

"and, per se and" by Shannon Ebner is a provocative new conjunction at the corner of Centinela and Washington Blvd. in Culver City. Despite its size, this stark symbol stands as a reminder that less is more, and leaves you wondering what words might be on either side. Feel free to reach your own conclusions.

AND...In case this has whetted your appetite for more....you will no doubt be amused by the following sites:

The History of the Ampersand

http://www.artlebedev.com/mandership/112/

AND...An entire blog devoted to ampersands!

http://ampersand.gosedesign.net/

Java Jesus...?

2011-08-25T00:41:00.000-07:00

Blessed are Those Stuck in Traffic, for They Shall See...

Sunset Strip Jesus strikes again, this time on tour at the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf on Hollywood Blvd. Could JC be giving caffeine the thumbs up? Either that or he's giving away free Lattes...which really would be a miracle!

[Photo Credit: Phyllis Hansen]

Signs of the Times - Part 1

2011-08-17T01:37:00.001-07:00

A favorite Dame loses her luster; the remaining letters looking more like a truck stop in East Roslovia than a cheery eatery in West L.A.

"Say Good Lookin', watcha doin' after your shift? Want to go to the picture show?"

"No thanks, Mister. I'm moonlighting over at the Five and Dime. Gotta keep the lights on, if ya know what I mean."

"Can't blame a guy for asking."

"Can't blame a gal for playing hard to get, even if she is down on her luck. Say, what's your name?"

"Jack. You gonna tell me yours?"

"Dol. Used to be Dolores. That was a long time ago."

"I knew a gal named Dolores once, down on the Boulevard. She was a class act. Open all night. And all the cherry pie you could eat."

"Them days is gone, Mister. Now it's a four buck cup o' joe and no electrical outlets."

"Bet she can't hold a candle to you."

"Betcha say that to all the gals that only got half a name."

"Half a name and a whole lot of heart."

"You got that right."

"Say Dol, how about that midnight show?"

It's A Miracle!

2011-08-16T15:34:00.000-07:00

"Times is hard in the city of fallen angels...Yup, they is." Jed Houghbough

Yet even in the bleakest of times, it's nice to know that sacred ceramic wildlife can come to our rescue.

Behold the "Cash Cow", available in a variety of sunny shades, including Fiesta Orange. Guaranteed to dispense ample quantities of grade A, nonfat, 100% organic greenbacks, in crisp, refreshing new denominations of $33, $72.50 and $99.95. Serves one hungry household plus the occasional guest. Cash Cow remains on premises for one week - a little extra if you scratch behind her ears!

Farmers are standing by and waiting for your call. Immediate FREE home delivery is just minutes away. Say goodbye to Fiscal Folly - so long to Poverty Row! No situation too dire. Don't delay, nutritious cash is on the way! Call now 1-800-CASH-COW....As Bessie likes to say, "It's yummy getting money!"

(*Safe for all denominations. Refrigerate bills before use)

(** Photo Credit: Miracle Mile....of course!)

Nino the Clown - Zoppe Family Circus

2009-12-04T19:25:00.000-08:00

The Zoppe Family Circus, in business since 1842, stopped in nearby Brea to grace us Angelenos with their three-dimensional brand of big top magic. A true family act, this circus boasts generations of Zoppes who have taken to the air to carry on the family tradition. European in flavor, the Zoppes tour the country, performing in smaller regional venues. Their roots go back to Venice, Italy, and they carry with them the time-honored traditions of the gypsy circuses of Eastern Europe and Russia - dark, exotic and enchanting - in the true sense of the word.

The Zoppe charm lies in its intimacy; audience members sit cramped together on homemade bleachers under a cozy tent, escorted to their seats by colorfully dressed and curiously courteous performers. As the smell of popcorn wafts through the air and the smell of sawdust tickles your nostrils, one is filled with the excitement and innocence of a previous century. We sit transfixed, becoming children once again, waiting with baited breath for the circus to come to town and sweep us away from our civilized reality.

The familiar circus music begins; plaintive accordions and frenzied violins chasing the frantic melody. Performers leap into the ring, welcoming one and all to embark on a familiar and fantastic journey. It is at this point that one is forced to suspend all belief in linear existence, embracing a space between past and present where the essence of entertainment dwells. The lights dim and one is plunged into Zoppe-Land where Commedia dell'Arte meets camp in a Technicolor infusion of gilded Venetian velvet, replete with gypsy girls on horseback, dancing dogs and a mustachioed Napoleonic Ringmaster who would make Don Ameche* proud!

Nino the Clown (son of Alberto Zoppe) enchants young and old with ancient tricks and aerial foibles. Cavallino, the miniature trick pony, draws oohs and aahs from the audience as he races 'round the ring, followed in quick succession by a bucket balancing act, a ribbon flyer and a pair of table twirlers who toss their tiny tot into the act for a heartwarming, if all too early, finale. The cast lingers, waving at the public, some wiping a tear from their eye, as both participants and spectators must say goodbye to a state of mutual entrancement.

In 2009, the Zoppe brand of entertainment is all the more precious, starved as we are for a truly human-scale experience. What is so surprising is how this simple, low-tech, almost amateurish set reveals such a rich and glorious experience. No Cirque de Soleil that astounds us with other-worldly feats of technical brilliance, the Zoppe troupe operates on our level; the line between magic and humanity is far enough to impress, yet human enough to touch us. We sit in stunned astonishment as these time-honored tricks manage to touch our hardened hearts with such profound effect. To be sure, the Zoppe Family Circus smacks of true subversion, twisting the most die-hard urban cynic into a quivering bundle of joy. And that, ladies and gentlemen of the millenium, is nothing to sneeze at.

"A harvest moon doth cross the sky,
Beneath a canopy wizardry lies
Hawkers chant and children sigh
Adults amazed as jugglers fly.
Is it any wonder we wonder why
On spells and tricks,
the Tricksters rely?
And we the public, publicly spy,
And wipe the calloused and jaded eye;
The animals,
they made us laugh,
and the clown,
he made us cry."

LS, 2009

Zoppe Cirus - "Nino" the Consummate Clown!

Zoppe Circus - Ribbon Aerialist

Zoppe Circus - Bucket Balancing Act

Zoppe Circus - Closing

Click here to read all about Alberto Zoppe, founder of the famous family circus!

[Still Photo: Phyllis Hansen]

* Don Ameche, host of TV's "International Showtime", featuring major European circuses of the early 60's.

Long Live Laemmle!

2009-11-27T18:31:00.001-08:00

[Photo Credit: Phyllis Hansen]

Carla Laemmle, the niece of Carl Laemmle, founder of Universal Studios, celebrated her 100th birthday on October 20th in true cinematic style - with an intimate soiree of several hundred friends and fans at the Egyptian Theater in Hollywood. Needless to say, Carla was every inch the belle of the ball. Ready for her close-up, she worked the crowd with the stamina - and sprightly gait - of a enthusiastic young starlet. Carla was refreshingly genuine in her enjoyment of her big night. Wearing a classic Chinese silk coat and a snazzy shade of red lipstick, Carla enchanted fans and friends with her humor, wit and well-being. Her eyes sparkled joyfully as she tirelessly signed autographs and posed for photos with an endless line of guests. In spite of whatever trials and troubles she must have borne as a member of Hollywood royalty, tonight she seemed only to glow with gratitude for a life well-lived. If that's what 100 looks like - sign me up!

Carla's birthday tribute included film clips and stills from her private and public life, readings from birthday cards from several politicians and celebrities and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Southern California Motion Picture Council for her contribution to film history. Most touching was a special commendation from Dr. Udo Bayer, mayor of Laupheim, the German town where Carl Laemmle was born and which Carla has visited on more than one occasion. Apparently they've built a museum to honor their talented native son.

No doubt being related to Carl Laemmle had its perks. However, Carla didn't rely on family favors to further her ambitions. Her passion for dance led her to serious study. Her reward came when she made her dance debut in the 1925 version of "Phantom of the Opera" starring Lon Chaney. Nowadays she is especially treasured for this fact as she is the only surviving member of the cast! Carla's lifelong fame arrived via a "bit" part alongside Bela Lugosi in the 1931 version of "Dracula". As fate would have it, she spoke the very first line in the film. Actually, she spoke the very first line in a horror film "talkie". Carla's "fifteen minutes" subsequently earned her an endless round of appearances on the horror film festival circuit, where she is feted by friends and fans as a result of this happy accident. Carla never forgot the famous line she spoke, "Among the rugged peaks that frown down upon the Borgo Pass are found crumbling castles of a bygone age." Fittingly, her friend and biographer, Rick Atkins, used that line as the title of his recent book, "Among the Rugged Peaks" (Atkins' documentary bearing the same title is set to debut in 2010.

Early Life
Carla was born in Chicago, but her family moved to California while she was still quite young. Her famous uncle secured a house for his brother Joseph and his family in Universal City (talk about "castles from a bygone age"!) Thus, Carla spent her formative years in a cozy cottage on the Universal lot from 1921 to 1937 (see photo below, courtesy of birthday exhibit). She recently penned a memoir of those years, "Growing Up with Monsters: My Times at Universal Studios in Rhymes".

The centenary extravaganza was orchestrated by Famous Monsters of Filmland and by Carla's great-niece, Rosemary Hilb Weinglass. Rosemary is the de facto family historian, and her passion for the Laemmle family legacy is shared by her two daughters, actress Antonia Carlotta and Cassandra Shaw, who were also in attendance.

May Carla inspire us to take advantage of every moment we have, no matter what strange pathways destiny sets before us.

Dear Carla...A toast to your 101st!

Click here to peruse "Among the Rugged Peaks"

Portrait of Young Carla by Robert Aragon

Location, Location, Location - "Wolf's Lair"

2009-11-20T06:41:00.000-08:00

On occasion, choice pieces of real estate that you've pined for come up for sale. For a brief shining moment, you can imagine yourself dwelling in one of these themed paradises. "Wolf's Lair" has always been a favorite. Perched high atop Beachwood Canyon, this cozy castle could be yours for a mere 4.6 (now, now...it was 7.5 earlier this year!).

OK, even if you had the 4.6, one has to admit that choosing where to live in Our Fair City is a very challenging question. There are just so many amazing architectural styles and neighborhoods to choose from.

So grab your "cafecito" and enjoy a virtual tour courtesy of Curbed LA.

Lair Looky-Loos

http://la.curbed.com/archives/2009/11/wolfs_lair_returns_to_mls_with_major_cut.php

Finally... Fante!

2009-11-12T01:40:00.001-08:00

The Downtown News recently reported that plans are afoot to designate 5th and Grand as "John Fante Square". The brilliant and quintessential Los Angeles writer (Ask the Dust, Dreams of Bunker Hill, Road to Los Angeles, Wait Until Spring Bandini), though not a native of our city, captured the pathos of its landscape with such exquisite passion that he deserves that title.

Fante had the pulse on downtown and Bunker Hill in particular, describing the seedy desperation of its residents, contrasting them with the high-living, free-wheeling entrepreneurs of Hollywood. Through bitter accidents of fate, Fante was denied the literary career he dreamed of. He had a family to support, and did what so many others have done, penning numerous screenplays that allowed him to keep the wolf, if not his pride, from the door. Thankfully for us, he continued to give voice to his muse, despite physical ailments that plagued him towards the end of his life, and which ultimately caused his death.

Fante, at least to this author, is literary Los Angeles. His love for the city embraces the best and the worst of this place, with an overriding compassion for the human struggle that takes place in this crazy desert town. Through a mastery of descriptive craft, Fante plunges us to the depths and then surprises by blending the comedy and tragedy of his characters into a sublime tableau of the human condition.

Unafraid to explore earthly and spiritual themes, Fante's work mirrors the high contrast of experience available in this city. His characters, in particular Arturo Bandini, were so closely intertwined with his personal experiences, both lived and observed, that his work stands as a vibrant chronicle of downtown, and thus L.A.'s past.

It is fitting that he will finally be acknowledged for his invaluable contribution to L.A. fiction. Bravo to our civic leaders who are finally granting Fante the nod that has been so long overdue!

Downtown News, Oct. 15, 2009

Van Nuys Vatican

2009-11-11T20:00:00.000-08:00

Curious to see where the Curia dines? No need to fork out the dough for a flight to Rome when you can bowl over a Bishop, charm a Cardinal and fete a Friar at the Vatican Banquet Hall, freeway close on Van Nuys Boulevard in the beautiful San Fernando Valley. What? You hadn't heard of this festive feast-ery? A penance upon you! (The cognoscenti are well aware that Van Nuys has always been the dernier cri of ecclesiastical cuisine!)

Whether you go to roast or to toast, the VBH's luxurious "European" decor (a white and gold motif that is an obvious nod to the Papal palette) is indeed a guilty pleasure, fit for a Czar. If you truly wish to impress, enter your soiree via the sweeping staircase that just screams "Doctor Zhivago". On warmer nights you can visit the Papal balcony from which you may look down and wave to the people of Van Nuys as they drive past (don't forget to nod!).

Gourmands delight in a truly "catholic" menu, reflecting a variety of ethnic favorites such as "Vatican Steak", "Pork Chops" and "Beef Stroganoff". Later, in the wee hours, toss off your cassock and work off those earthly calories on the spacious dance floor, as the DJ spins "Arrivederci Roma".

Truly, any Pontiff would give his Papal slippers to experience Sunday dinner in such a sublimely surreal setting. Whether your own taste veers from Euro-disco to Quinceanera, from Mafia Baptism to Suburban Baroque, the VBH will exceed your every fantasy - terrestrial or celestial!

Leave it to the City of the Angels to serve up such a blessed locale!

P.S. Remember to say a prayer to San Andreas that the Big One won't hit while you're there and send that heavy imperial chandelier crashing into your Chicken Lula!

www.vaticanbanquet.com

Pharoahs and Angels - Eyptian Royals' Tombs in L.A.

2009-11-11T17:43:00.000-08:00

Holy Cross Cemetery - Culver City, California. Matching headstones grace the top of a picturesque hill overlooking West Los Angeles, with the Pacific Ocean in the distance. Who would think of this southland suburb as a fit resting place for a princess, let alone a queen, of one of the oldest civilizations in existence?

Queen Nazli, mother of the last king of Egypt, King Farouk I, like so many other notables, lived out her final years in our Fair City. She and her daughter Fathiya emigrated to the U.S. in the late 50's. Both Queen Nazli and her daughter Fathaya had converted to Catholicism, a fact that scandalized and ultimately estranged them from Farouk. Both lived in Los Angeles since the mid-60's, where they were joined by Nazli's other daughter, Faiza. Nazli and Fathaya’s fate, at least in Egypt, was sealed upon their conversion, and re-sealed upon Farouk’s deposition. Unfortunately, that was not the end of their personal tragedy.

Fathaya Fouad Ghali was murdered by her ex-husband, Riad Ghali, in a moment of irrational anger over issues related to their divorce. Stricken with remorse, he tried to kill himself immediately following his act, yet survived to live out his remaining years in convalescence. Queen Nazli died two years later, and was laid to rest next to her daughter. Ironically, Riad is interred several paces from his ex-wife and mother-in-law.

Having been subjected to reversals of personal and fiscal fortunes, both Nazli and Fathaya in their own way became martyrs - Nazli's stoic suffering while living out her days as an exile, and then outliving her daughter and Fathiya's final moments of heartbreak as her former husband and the father of her children made the decision to end her life. Faiza, a martyr of a different faith, displayed dignified resignation and forgiveness as she watched public and private empires trampled into dust. They are all to be lauded for their humanity, and their ultimate refusal to judge those who had caused them so much suffering. As for what Atty's children had to endure, there are no words.

May our city's Angels grant the departed true eternal peace, and to the living, the grace of transcendence.

To Nazli, Atty and Faiza, and to Ranya, Rafik and Rayed, wherever you may be,

You are all remembered with love,

LS & IS

LA Anagram Fun

2009-11-04T23:49:00.000-08:00

OK Folks, this IS a classic! Visit this clever site and enter "Los Angeles California"

ANAGRAM FOR LA

Santa Ana on My Mind

2009-10-28T00:00:00.001-07:00

Nothing like a balmy winter afternoon to whet your appetite for a soft Santa Ana...

“Los Angeles weather is the weather of catastrophe, of apocalypse, and, just as the reliably long and bitter winters of New England determine the way life is lived there, so the violence and the unpredictability of the Santa Ana affect the entire quality of life in Los Angeles, accentuate its impermanence, its unreliability. The wind shows us how close to the edge we are".

—Joan Didion, "Los Angeles Notebook"

Those hot dry winds that come down through the mountain passes and curl your hair and make your nerves jump and your skin itch. On nights like that every booze party ends in a fight. Meek little wives feel the edge of the carving knife and study their husbands' necks. Anything can happen. ”

—Raymond Chandler, "Red Wind"

Early 80's punk band Bad Religion mentions the winds a few times, using their nickname "murder winds", "St. Anne's skirts are billowing" and the line "The fans of Santa Ana are withering" in the song "Los Angeles Is Burning" from the 2004 album The Empire Strikes First. "When the hills of Los Angeles are burning/ Palm trees are candles in the murder winds/ So many lives are on the breeze/ Even the stars are ill at ease/ And Los Angeles is burning."

Click here for Cool Facts on a hot wind!

We are the money police.

2009-10-18T13:57:00.000-07:00

To the curator of this blog,

We are the money police. We know who you are. We are watching you.

It has come to our attention, LMS, that you have been trafficking in your attempts to deactivate your money concerns and worry. This simply will not do! All conversations relating to financial freedom are against the panic protocol, AND WILL CEASE AND DESIST IMMEDIATELY!!! For the good of the body, you will return to your pre-liberation shekel shackle where life is beautiful all the time and we're coming to take you away HA HA HO HO.

Ahem, excuse me.

Once again, please refrain from activities that might involve pleasurable demonstrations of joy during non-working hours. This is not covered by your collective bargaining agreement. All fun related to financial fecundity will be held during sleep hours only, preferably during REM...or at least during snoring portions of slumber.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. This has not been a recording.

The Management

"My Westwood" - Anjali

2009-10-18T08:44:00.000-07:00

There are certain individuals who make up my daily routine and on whom I rely to provide me with a cozy "Main Street" congeniality in the midst of our urban expanse.
Anjali - whose name evokes the obvious celestial properties - is in the employ of a large financial institution that is entrusted with dispensing the few shekels I possess to a myriad of clamoring creditors.

Needless to say, my visits to said tower of finance are fraught with a certain sense of doom. Yet I manage to return simply because I know that I shall be greeted by Anjali's wise and cheerful countenance. She will remind me, as only someone from a wise and ancient culture can, that no matter the fluctuating states of my fiscal fortitude, the world will turn, we shall endure, and the numbers flickering on the screen that bears my account are merely nano-fragments on a quark of a particle of a chain of molecular substructures that bear no relationship to the quirky essence of my soul...or anyone else's, for that matter.

Each time I visit, Anjali and I exchange a smile, and she will nod, and I will nod, and we will engage in the familiar pleasantries, inquiries and anecdotes that remind me that my life is actually playing out in a village of my own making. As we go to the well, surely the purpose of the journey is everything but the bucket of water. It lies in the chain of acquaintances and friendships and human connections we create along the way. And it is these living chains that make the material muck so much more bearable.

May Anjali remind me of the gold in my coffers. And may I remind her of the gems in hers.

Thank you, Anjali, for residing in my village.

"Have You Heard Of....?" THE TOKYO GOLF CLUB"

2009-10-18T07:34:00.000-07:00

WHAT: An underground driving range and bar in L.A.’s Little Tokyo.

LAST SIGHTED: Mid 80’s…Between Los Angeles & San Pedro streets, btwn 2^nd and 3^rd.

QUERY: If anyone has heard of this place, or actually been there, please contact us A.S.A.P.!

THE STORY: I had long been fascinated by a small neon sign on the side of a restaurant in Little Tokyo. Simple lettering spelled out the words “Tokyo Golf Club”. Golf? Grass? Space? In the middle of downtown L.A? Was this someone’s idea of a practical joke… “Hello Kitty-speak” designed to entice and fool pedestrians and motorists alike? At first, I thought it might be the name of the restaurant whose wall it occupied. But that illusion was dashed as soon as I looked up and saw another sign spelling out a Japanese name, with the English word “restaurant” clearly underneath it. Stranger yet was the flickering neon arrow directly under the words “Tokyo Golf Club” -- an arrow pointing downward, into the cold cement.

I grabbed my companion for the evening, Anthony, an adventurous young architect, and insisted that we leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of this mythical grassland. We concluded that if indeed this place existed, it did so directly underneath our feet. The question was how to get down there. I felt that the entrance wasn’t located inside the restaurant, but somewhere else, somewhere not as obvious.

Sure enough, we looked around and spotted a grey office building of about 12 stories standing in the middle of the parking lot. A portal, perhaps? Closer inspection revealed a matching sign, this time with an arrow pointing inside the building! Despite the late hour, the glass doors were unlocked. We passed through them and stood before an elevator.

Against his better judgment, my friend pushed the button. I felt a distinct connection with Alice when she took the cake marked “Eat Me.” The elevator doors opened, and adventure beckoned. We would probably never be heard from again, but this was an adventure we couldn’t pass up. One step, and we were hurtling down, down, down. Thud. The doors creaked open, and we found ourselves in…Big Sur ?!?

A mural of Monterrey pines and the rugged Pacific coastline graced the back wall. Cocktail waitresses in short skirts paraded around, handing umbrella-ed martinis to exhausted businessmen. Music wafted through the surreal setting, interrupted by the metronomic “ping” of golf balls, lending an air of genteel restraint to our underground theme park. A driving range! A journey to the center of the earth and back out again…in Asia! Our eyes gleamed with excitement at our fortuitous teleportation. I waited for Patrick McGooghan to welcome us to “The Village”. Maybe this was the tip of the iceberg. God knows what other wonders lay beneath our fair city!

Needless to say, my friend and I could hardly contain our surprise, laughter, and relief that the elevators doors had actually opened. The locals stared, unable to believe our presence, just as we were unable to believe theirs. We glided past each other, their blank stares of “this is not happening” unable to dampen our spirit of adventure. Surely this was the find of the year, if not the century! We couldn’t wait to tell our more sensible friends, making them ever so jealous that they ended their evening’s revel so early.

Of course, they would never believe it. We secretly believed that this scene materialized just for us, merely because we had believed it into being. Then again, maybe it was the result of a very very late night of carousing through the burgeoning downtown club scene. Somehow, when we drove away that night, both of us knew that if we ever tried to find it again, it would certainly slip away, like Brigadoon, into the silent city.

We did tell our friends, who of course, didn’t believe us. It was a long time before I found my way back there. At first, it seemed everything else had shifted too. The restaurant was gone. The building was gone. All that remained was an expanse of cement which had certainly consumed our adventure. It remained in my mind as the perfect Angeleno legend…I could see the article I would someday write…”Shangri-La Swallowed by Parking Lot”.

The LA Weekly, keeper of all things weird and wonderful, claims no knowledge of my secret place. Even my stalwart friend speaks of this night in hushed…uncertain tones.

Am I the last keeper of this field trip flame?

Please let us know if you or someone you know possesses any factual information, personal experience, photos or hearsay concerning the TOKYO GOLF CLUB.

L.A. in Verse - "City of the Angels"

2009-10-15T18:11:00.000-07:00

Periodically I will share both visual and textual images of Los Angeles by fellow artists who are also in love with L.A. Enjoy these in the spirit with which they were written.

CITY OF ANGELS

Angeleno by identity
Birthed near the ocean
Rooted in the City of the Angels
Nurtured by investment banker dad and real estate mom
And Catholic in creed, commitment and kind
Now inserted into the maze of cultural diversity
rooted in God's Global Peopled Creation
Nurtured by evolving paradigms
Stretching
Challenging
Evangelizing
And Pluri-spiritual in movement
Through prayer and presence to the marginalized.
This City of the Angels has moved me to a different place
though my "address" is the same
Moved me into the discovery of new treasures
Unveiled in the faces of new angels
who have found a home here.
Angels come and go in L.A.

Poem: Kathleen Bryant, RSC, Religious Sisters of Charity. Image: "Our Lady Queen of the Angels" Exhibition for the Los Angeles Bicentennial, Museum of Science and Industry. Tony Duquette, a native Angeleno, is the artist.

Kathleen Bryant is also passionate about another cause - the abolition of global human trafficking, with a particular focus on its eradication here in the city of Los Angeles.

Maria Rasputin Rests in Peace

2009-10-10T19:11:00.000-07:00

[Photos: (left) Maria as a young girl at her father's St. Petersburg apartment on 64 Gorokhovaya Street - source: Wikipedia(right) Maria in the 1930's - source: asilva125@aol.com ]

How many of you know that Maria Rasputin, daughter of the so-called "Mad Monk of Russia", was laid to rest in our Fair City?

At the age of 14, obsessed with the story of Tsar Nicholas and his family, I was thrilled to discover that Gregory Rasputin's daughter lived about 20 minutes from me, right here in Our Fair City. My mother met her at a cocktail party, and casually mentioned this fact to me the following day over breakfast. I, who had read "Nicholas and Alexandra" at least 6 times, and had proceeded to enroll in a Russian class through the UCLA Extension program, jumped out of my chair and wouldn't let my poor mother do anything until she had called and arranged a meeting. That was the beginning of my magical association with L.A. Surely, everything, and everyone passed through here at some point. All you had to do was stay awake and carpe diem!

Fortunately, my mother was very tolerant of her daughter's historical obsession, and in a matter of days, I was privileged to make the acquaintance of Maria Rasputin. She was living in Silverlake, in a small duplex apartment on Larissa Drive, and was both amused and delighted to meet this eager young American girl who was "mad about the monk" and everyone else that she had personally met.

Over a cup of hot "chai", and my Beginning Russian, she shared fond memories of her father and her years in St. Petersburg with the Tsar and his family on the eve of the Russian Revolution. A sincere and lovely soul, she dispelled the "malicious gossip and lies" about her famous father. She maintained that Grishka, as he was called, was indeed a very spiritual person with a God-given gift for healing. I had to admit, I was fascinated by his spiritual side - what kind of focus, intention, etc. would he have to summon in order to affect the cures attributed to him? Whatever the history books state regarding his carnal character, it is hard to discount the many times Tsarevich Alexei's hemophiliac episodes were indeed aborted upon Father Grigori's visits and prayers.

Later, I read Maria's first book. "My Father", written in 1934 (reprinted in 1970), was a clear and heartfelt response to the way her father's memory had been maligned since his death. Having read this book, along with a subsequent - and considerably more sensational - book co-authored by local journalist, I can honestly say that Maria's original memoir in infinitely preferable to the latter, which reeks of exploitation by its co-author.

Following the Russian Revolution in 1917, Maria lived in Paris and New York, and worked as a governess, a cabaret dancer, a Russian teacher, a riveter, and, of all things, a lion tamer for a traveling circus. Clearly a survivor, she married twice, and finally settled in Los Angeles in the 60's. She attended the Russian Orthodox Church, Holy Virgin Mary Cathedral, at 650 Micheltorena Ave., and chose to reside in the same neighborhood.

Over the course of the next few years, I had several more visits with Maria, notably a lunch in which my father took her, me and my friend Kathy Smith to lunch at Perino's (which, alas, isn't here anymore, either). I remember eating the delectable chocolate covered strawberries that were resting on ancient china, and feeling that we had all been transported to a snow-covered winter's day in Old Russia, cozily ensconced in a palace dining room, sipping tea from a heavy samovar....Ah, those were the days. A toast to all things romantically past...Dosvidanya, Rossiya. Dosvidanya, Maria.

Maria died in 1977, and was laid to rest in a simple grave in Angelus-Rosedale Cemetery. She is survived by 4 great-grandchildren, some of whom reside in France.

Click here to see Maria Rasputin's marker, courtesy of Steve Goldstein's wonderful site, www.beneathlosangeles.com

www.beneathlosangeles.com

Click here to read a recent article by her great-grandchild, Laurence Huot-Solovieff.

The St. Petersburg Times - Top Stories - Rasputin's Notoriety Dismays Relative

Shared via AddThis

USC - Library Virtual Tour

2009-10-10T13:23:00.001-07:00
Virtual Tour of the New Reference Desk in Doheny Library

Shared via AddThis

Welcome to the Doheny Library...a gem in the crown of LA Academia.

Click on the still photo to activate the "virtual portions".

USC - Library n' Latte - Part 1

2009-10-10T13:21:00.000-07:00

Yours truly marveling at that very vintage concept - the beautifully serene hall of knowledge that is the Doheny Library. Note the lack of books on the tables, having been replaced by the ubiquitous and minimalist MAC. Doesn't it just make you pine for the days of the card catalog? (Not!)

Yes, as you may have guessed, 'tis my Alma Mater, to be sure, yet well-worth a stop on a downtown tour. Fear not, lattes can be purchased a few steps away!

Newcomers take note: The hallowed halls of USC have stood in for a wide variety of academic institutions, from the renowned (Ivy Leagues) to the ridiculous!

[Photo: Francesca Innocenti Beldham]

Neon N' LA - Wilshire Ebell

2009-10-07T06:57:00.000-07:00

Here's a gem...The Wilshire Ebell...still glowing gracefully above the greenery of Hancock Park. Opened in 1927 for the premiere of "Desert Song", the opera by Sigmond Romberg, the Ebell provided an elegant venue for theatrical events, lectures, weddings and cotillions - social dancing parties in which the offspring of the elite learned manners, mambo and the fine art of escorting their date back to her seat without spilling the punch. In fact, the Los Angeles Cotillion continues today, in the very same room where it began a hundred years ago! Isn't that soothing?

Today's crop, thankfully a much more diverse group, can cha-cha under the same roof that housed Judy Garland's first audition, as well as Amelia Earhart's first public appearance. Back in the early 90's, the Ebell went New-Age, as thousands flocked to lectures on alternative spirituality by Marianne Williamson.

There is something stately, refined, educated and well-mannered about the Ebell, no matter which way you choose to stress the syllables. But then again, what else would you expect? You history buffs, take note, it's the perfect spot for a vintage ball. Drop in and have a look. You won't be disappointed!

For further reading, please visit these wonderful sites:

http://www.ebellla.com/operating/index.html
http://ebelllosangeles.wordpress.com/about-the-ebell-of-los-angeles/

Remembrance of Things Past - Jurgensen's

2009-10-07T06:45:00.001-07:00

The famed Jurgensen's sign in Westwood on Glendon Avenue...today, "sandwiched" between a large condo complex and a restaurant. You can view it on foot, as you'll have to pause and sneak a peak between the building walls. "Jurgensen's....Foods of the World. Yes, indeed! The freshest fruit, the most beguiling vegetables, and specialty items from around the country, cozily housed in naturally lit old-fashioned market, complete with slivers of sawdust on the floor. And peaking of sandwiches...they really had the best...roast beef with cole slaw on rye, served with a smile. Yes, it was the Bristol Farms of its day, with locations in the tonier neighborhoods of Los Angeles...Beverly Hills, Pasadena, Hancock Park. It was one of the last places where all the personnel knew customers by name, and where you, their offspring, were allowed to grab your tower of turkey and wave...."Charge it to our account, please!"

Ah....those were the days.

Neon N' LA - Arwyn

2009-10-07T06:40:00.000-07:00

The Arwyn sign above the Arwyn Manor Apartments. A brick block circa 20's or 30's, the Arwyn lights the way for denizens of 8th street as they make their way through the bustling brew of Koreatown.

Take a peak: 3835 W. Eighth Street, LA 90005

The Talented Mr. Rimpau

2009-10-06T23:00:00.001-07:00

How many of us have passed the stately boulevard with nary a nod to its origins?
Well, now you know. There was indeed a Mr. Rimpau, and his remains rest peacefully in Evergreen Cemetery in Boyle Heights. Could the quill on his tombstone be telling us that old Mr. "R" had a penchant for the pen?

The REAL Underground LA

2009-10-02T18:56:00.000-07:00
Check out this gem of an article I found penned by a certain "Sir Jinx" on What Lies Beneath!

Downtown Los Angeles Underground Tunnels

on 5/21/2008 7:46 PM

I had to do jury duty at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Building downtown about a year ago. Since it was a gang murder trial and we feared "retaliation" from the family of the accused, we received an "escort" out a hidden underground passage.

There was this tunnel under the courtroom (Clara Foltz) that ran all the way from the Foltz Building to another building 3 blocks away. We walked for nearly 15 minutes underground in these service tunnels big enough to drive a bus through. We exited at a building near the Disney Concert Hall. For those that know downtown, you understand that this is far away from the Clara Foltz building and a bit of a walk if you're above ground.

So what's my point with all of this? There's a whole underground network of tunnels in downtown Los Angeles. I know most of you know about this or could have assumed that certain buildings would be connected. Or you might respond with a "no shit sherlock" response. But I'm not trying to come off like I have some kind of hidden information. All I'm doing is just trying to start a conversation about underground tunnels in Los Angeles and see if anybody has come across anything else like this?

I think it would be pretty dangerous to mess around down there simply because most of these buildings are courts. I mean the guy who walked us through these tunnels was a bailiff deputy with a gun. I don't think he'd be too happy finding some dude down there. But the thing is, I remember exactly where the exit is. The exit was not some secure area, it was just a door that came out on the sidewalk near 3rd street. But it was one of those one-way doors, that you have to push to exit but on the outside, doesn't have a way to get in. We had to climb 4 or 5 flights of stairs to exit on the ground level, so you can understand my excitement at just how "underground" this thing was.

The other weird thing was that on the way out there were all these seals painted on the hallways that said "Central Intelligence Agency." The seals looked old and the paint was peeling off. One of the guys I was with was involved in Hollywood (director of independent films) and said that maybe these tunnels were used to shoot a movie and they wanted it to look like the CIA headquarters or something.

Lastly I remember watching an episode of California Gold where Huell Howser goes into a different set of tunnels near Chinatown. I don't remember what they were used for but I seem to remember there was a railroad track in the tunnel, but not for a train, more like something that might be used for a mine car.

That's all I got for now. Please don't muddy this thread up with UCLA steam tunnel talk. I'm interested in other underground stuff that doesn't involve those dang UCLA tunnels.

[last edit 5/21/2008 9:02 PM by SirJinx - edited 3 times]

People are weird.

SirJinx
Location: Los Angeles Area
Gender: Male

Re: Downtown Los Angeles Underground Tunnels

I almost forgot another story that my friend Barry told me a while back...

This guy worked as a contractor at either the Los Angeles City Hall building or some old "justice" building doing repairs. I'll have to call him to clarify. Anyway, he said that they were doing some repair work in a basement lower level. He said there were these HUGE rooms filled with filing cabinets as far as the eye could see. Blocks and blocks of cabinets in these huge empty store rooms. The way he described these rooms were like freaking airport hangers. But that wasn't even the interesting part.

At one point they went into an older part of the building and found a giant locker room that hadn't been opened in years. The locker room had showers and everything so it was kind of weird to him why there would be showers and a locker room at city hall. Anyhow, I guess the room had been sealed off since the 1950's or 1960's or something.

Anyhow, there were all these lockers with old rusted locks on them. He was kind of in a "holy shit" mode, obviously having found a room that hadn't been opened in decades. He wanted to go back with a bolt cutter and see what was in those lockers but he never got the chance. He kept telling me, "man, I wanted to open those lockers to see what was in them..." I think it was his biggest regret that he didn't open them up.

[last edit 5/21/2008 8:48 PM by SirJinx - edited 1 times]

http://www.uer.ca/forum_showthread.asp?fid=1&threadid=55684

THOSE CAGEY CANUCKS...

2008-05-17T02:00:00.000-07:00
Well, there they go again...beating us at our own game. First it was good old-fashioned civility, then it was health care, and now, they're spilling the ET's out of the proverbial saucer! The Vice-Premier delivers an eyebrow-raising, sobering sermon on the wild & woolly antics of brothers in space, and the real "brothers from another planet"...our fearless leaders.
Enjoy a cup of tea and take it all in!

Video Clip:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xuEUmnEVJQk

VATICAN: IT'S OK TO BELIEVE IN ALIENS

2008-05-17T01:37:00.000-07:00

By ARIEL DAVID – 16 hours ago VATICAN CITY (AP) — Believing that the universe may contain alien life does not contradict a faith in God, the Vatican's chief astronomer said in an interview published Tuesday.The Rev. Jose Gabriel Funes, the Jesuit director of the Vatican Observatory, was quoted as saying the vastness of the universe means it is possible there could be other forms of life outside Earth, even intelligent ones."How can we rule out that life may have developed elsewhere?" Funes said. "Just as we consider earthly creatures as 'a brother,' and 'sister,' why should we not talk about an 'extraterrestrial brother'? It would still be part of creation."In the interview by the Vatican newspaper L'Osservatore Romano, Funes said that such a notion "doesn't contradict our faith" because aliens would still be God's creatures. Ruling out the existence of aliens would be like "putting limits" on God's creative freedom, he said.The interview, headlined "The extraterrestrial is my brother," covered a variety of topics including the relationship between the Roman Catholic Church and science, and the theological implications of the existence of alien life.Funes said science, especially astronomy, does not contradict religion, touching on a theme of Pope Benedict XVI, who has made exploring the relationship between faith and reason a key aspect of his papacy.The Bible "is not a science book," Funes said, adding that he believes the Big Bang theory is the most "reasonable" explanation for the creation of the universe. The theory says the universe began billions of years ago in the explosion of a single, super-dense point that contained all matter.But he said he continues to believe that "God is the creator of the universe and that we are not the result of chance."Funes urged the church and the scientific community to leave behind divisions caused by Galileo's persecution 400 years ago, saying the incident has "caused wounds."In 1633 the astronomer was tried as a heretic and forced to recant his theory that the Earth revolved around the sun. Church teaching at the time placed Earth at the center of the universe."The church has somehow recognized its mistakes," he said. "Maybe it could have done it better, but now it's time to heal those wounds and this can be done through calm dialogue and collaboration."Pope John Paul declared in 1992 that the ruling against Galileo was an error resulting from "tragic mutual incomprehension."The Vatican Observatory has been at the forefront of efforts to bridge the gap between religion and science. Its scientist-clerics have generated top-notch research and its meteorite collection is considered one of the world's best.The observatory, founded by Pope Leo XIII in 1891, is based in Castel Gandolfo, a lakeside town in the hills outside Rome where the pope has a summer residence. It also conducts research at an observatory at the University of Arizona, in Tucson. On the Net:
· Vatican Observatory: http://clavius.as.arizona.edu/vo

Praise be he and Dolly

2008-05-15T23:53:00.000-07:00

This is our leader. He is to be worshipped at the altar of the drive-through diner. I must find him again. He lost me many moons ago, at the corner of Van Nuys Blvd and Burbank. David Lynch once kidnapped him and took him to the desert, put a bullet in his head and pulled my trigger now he's dead.

I want my Fudge cake and eat it too.

Tony Forkush

Thank you, Tony....now...who knows where this chubby little lad might reside? HINT: It's in a suburb far, far away...

[Article: Tony Forkush; Photo: L.S.]