The

Journal
Arroyo Summer

www.asjournal.net
Seco in Surf
City!

Serving
Serving the
the communities ofNortheast Los Angeles
communities of

Skirmishes and Standoffs:

The Battle for the Southwest Museum
2003-2009

Also:
• Labor Disputes at Celebrating Lummis Day!
Fresh & Easy Full Photo Spread inside!

• Luther Burbank gets

a face lift!

Volume 1 | Issue 4 | July/August 2009 | $6.50

 All Day and All of the Night...
The Coffee Table bisTro
• Serving Breakfast, Lunch,
Dinner and Desserts
• Organic Coffee
• Supporter of Local Schools
• Weekend Breakfast Specials
• Free Wi-fi
• Best Cupcakes in Town!
The Coffee Table lounge
• Over 150 Premium Bottled
Beers
• 20 Premium Rotating Draft
Beers
• Lounge Menu
• Sports and Entertainment
• 8’ x12’ Projection Screen
• 2 50” Plasma Televisions
• Patio coming Soon!

1954-1958 Colorado Blvd

EAGLE ROCK CA 90041
323 255-2200 BISTRO
323-257-2245 LOUNGE
16 Concerts
at the Square
_ JULY 16
Mariachi Divas
The all-female Mariachi Divas are
making big waves on the national
music scene. In 2009, the group won
the American Grammy award for Bringing together history, architecture
Regional Mexican Album for their
latest CD, Canciones De Amor.
and entertainment with free evenings
Mariachi Divas are a unique, multi-
cultural ensemble imbued with the
of great live performances on four
true flavor of Los Angeles. consecutive Thursday evenings in July

30
Heritage Square Museum
3800 Homer Street
Los Angeles, California 90031
For more information, please contact Heritage Square
_ JULY 30 at(323)225-2700 or info@heritagesquare.org

Susie Hansen Latin Band

The Susie Hansen Latin Band returns Media Sponsor
to Heritage Square for what promises The

Journal
rnal.net

to be yet another unforgettable live Arroyo

performance. Electric violinist Susie Seco
ww w .asjou

Hansen plays fiery Latin Jazz and

Salsa, creating music that brings
audiences to their feet, dancing in NON-PROFIT. DESIGN.
communities Nor
Serving the oftheast
LosAngeles
the aisles!

3
 The

Journal
Arroyo

www.asjournal.net
Seco

Serving the communities ofNortheast Los Angeles

is published by
The Verdugo Group
PO Box 50236
Los Angeles, CA 90050 USA
Editorial: 323.230.8355
Advertising: 213.308.5337
•
Serving the communities of
Northeast Los Angeles and beyond
•
Publisher/Editorial Director
Edward Rivera

News Editor
Margaret Arnold

Sales Manager
Deborah Ray

Art & Design

John Bowers

Music
Desiree Garcia

Contributing Writers
David Auslender, Mark Barawitz, Ronald Bello, Karen Daly,
Candace Merrill, Jessica O’Byrne, Linda Overly, Ashley Sifer

Photography
Joel Monroy
Art Villanueva
Caryn Gilbert
The Arroyo Seco Journal magazine is a proud member/supporter of The Highland
Park Chamber of Commerce, The Eagle Rock Chamber of Commerce, The NELA
Rotary Club, TERA, The Highland Park Heritage Trust, The Lummis Day
Community Foundation, NELA Art, The Arroyo Arts
Collective, the Eagle Rock Center for the Arts, and the Rock Rose Gallery.
4
 July/August ‘09

Local News 7
Labor troubles at Fresh and Easy?, Luther Burbank Middle School Gets a
Face Lift. News Editor Margaret Arnold reports.

On the Cover 10

“Skirmishes and Standoffs: The Battle over the

Southwest Museum” For nearly six years, the Northeast LA
community has fought over the future of the Southwest Museum in
Highland Park. Now perhaps, the end of the war is near. Or is it?

Local Angles 18
Celebrating Lummis Day” Another Lummis Day is celebrated on
a day of perfect weather, perfect food, perfect music and the perfect
audience. What to do next year?

Travel 20
It might not be the First place you think of when you go to the
beach, but the original Surf City” has much to offer, even if you’re
a total hodad.

Foodielicious 25
David Auslender takes us a few metro stops to Pasadena, where La
Grande orange is serving breakfast and everything else.

PLUS: Wheel Lifem and Summer Concerts at heritage Square!

Southwest museum photo by martha benedict

5
 DEADLINE
Sometimes Late, Always Great
Sorry we’re a little late. We’ve been traveling and seeing the
world a long way from Figueroa Street. So, given the vagaries
of the Internet, Italian train schedules, and the time-space
continuum, our theory that “we can do this from anywhere” has
been severely tested.
But here we are.
And nowhere else will you find our coverage of lo-
cal news, such as News Editor Margaret Arnold’s expansive look at the long struggle over
the fate and future of the Southwest Museum. A last-minute and long-overdue move by
Councilmember Jose Huizar may bring some closure to the battle. Or it may not. The story
begins on page 10.
Also in local news, Fresh and Easy Markets are the target of a new international
campaign on the part of organized labor with support from notable politicians such as
Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, President Barack Obama, and Fresh and Easy employees in 12
countries. The first Fresh and Easy in the United States opened in 2007 on Eagle Rock Bou-
levard in Glassell Park. The chain is being accused of failure to pay its employees livable
wages and of blocking attempts by employees to join unions. Right now this is about the
only place you’ll see this developing story in print.
Luther Burbank Middle School is also getting a facelift this fall. After too many
years of bad news and discontent within the school, it’s nice to report good news from the
campus. Margaret Arnold has the story.
We didn’t forget about Lummis Day, of course. We’ve seen that summer is music
festival season all over the world, and it’s nice to see that Northeast LA is no exception.
You’ll see a couple pages of terrific photos by Art Villanueva to bring some great memories
back. And, next summer’s event will be here in a blink.
While we’re on the subject, we’ve also got some photos of Heritage Square
Museum’s summer concert series. It’s continuing through August. Get there.
Speaking of summer and going places, we visited the original Surf City back in
June. and while Orange County may not be the first place you think of visiting, there is a lot
to see in Huntington Beach, and it isn’t all just surfing.
We also took the Metro a few stops north a while back, and came back with a
story about one cool dining spot in nearby Pasadena. Dave Auslender is all over it.
Speaking of dining, we’ve recently merged with our friends at Pasadenanow.com,
for a series of special issues to be released this summer and fall. The first is The Arroyo
Seco Dining Guide, which will be available August 15. Upcoming special issues will feature real
estate, travel and a holiday shopping guide, since every day is almost Christmas, it seems.
Candace Merrill is driving cars for us while I’m away. You can check out her take
on the Toyota Highlander Hybrid on page 22.
We’ve seen a lot of cities in our travels this summer, and you can catch up with
where we are when, at www.justaguyintheworld.blogspot.com. You can also find additional news
and updated listings at our news blog, www.arroyosecojournal.blogspot.com.
Until next month, do everything.

Edward Rivera
Editorial Director, The Arroyo Seco Journal
Madrid, Spain
Summer 2009

6
 Not so Fresh or Easy
Labor Organizes against Tesco Chain
by Margaret Arnold
Exclusive to the Arroyo Seco
Journal
“We’re dealing with a
company that is acting like
an imperial power,” says Los
Angeles City Councilmember
Richard Alarcon regarding the
Fresh and Easy Neighborhood
Market chain and its parent
company, British retail giant
Tesco.
Fresh and Easy
Markets are the target of a
new international campaign
on the part of organized labor
with support from notable
politicians such as Mayor
Antonio Villaraigosa and even
President Barack Obama,
and with the involvement of
Fresh and Easy employees in
12 countries. Tesco is being
accused of failure to pay its
employees livable wages
and of blocking attempts by
employees to join unions.
The first Fresh and
Easy in the United States
opened in 2007 on Eagle Rock
Boulevard in Glassell Park.
Tesco is the world’s
third largest retailer with 2,282
stores in the United Kingdom
and 4,308 worldwide. These
store range in size from
convenience “Express” stores
to mega “Superstores.” In
addition to food, Tesco sells
electronics, furniture and do-
it-yourself products in the
UK. Other Tesco operations
include “Tesco Mobile,”
a telecommunications
business, and a corporate unit
selling motor and household
insurance. The company is
even in the process of opening
“Tesco Banks” offering
LOCAL NEWS
accounts and mortgages. Its according to Deputy Mayor hours work to qualify for the
retail operations are rapidly Larry Frank, has been company’s health benefits, the
expanding; a recent financial rebuffed. cost to an employee is high for
report indicates that Tesco On an international the low benefits received.
plans to open over 11.5 million level, the union campaign If a typical part time
square feet of new space this is coordinated as the “Tesco employee were to manage to
year, 80% of it outside the Global Alliance” under the put 10% of his or her earnings
UK. auspices of the UNI Global into the company’s highly
Campaign organizers Union, which is based in touted pension plan, Logan
say that, while Tesco workers Switzerland and includes says that the cap on Fresh and
Easy’s matching contribution
would be $300 annually.
UNI Deputy General Secretary, UNI began the international Further, in what UNI believes
Tesco campaign 18 month ago as an outgrowth of its is a deliberate attempt to
belief that fundamental workers’ rights do not stop at discourage employees from
unionizing, Fresh and Easy’s
borders. 140,000 United Kingdom Tesco workers are printed pension plan materials
union members, but once it moves out of the U.K, Tesco, overtly state that union
according to Bowyer, “takes on the members are barred from
participation in the 401(k)
worst of industrial relations in other countries.” plan.
Logan contends that
have good union benefits in under its umbrella 900 trade what Fresh and Easy offers
the United Kingdom, in other unions, which collectively in hours, salary and benefits
countries, notably the United represent more than 20 million stops short of being a livable
States, Thailand and South workers. wage package.
Korea, Tesco won’t talk with According to Phil The UNI report
unions. Bowyer, UNI Deputy General states that, “In response to
President Obama, Secretary, UNI began the challenges from the floor
while the Democratic Party international Tesco campaign at Tesco’s Annual General
presidential nominee, urged 18 month ago as an outgrowth Meeting in 2008, the CEO, Sir
Tesco CEO Sir Terry Leahy to of its belief that fundamental Terry Leahy, told shareholders
meet with union organizers, workers’ rights do not stop that employees in the USA
writing, “I am aware of at borders. 140,000 United were free to join a union if
Tesco’s reputation in Britain Kingdom Tesco workers are they wished to, but that the
as a partner to unions. I would union members, but once it evidence was that employees
hope that you would bring moves out of the U.K, Tesco, did not want to.”
those values to your work in according to Bowyer, “takes UNI campaign
America,” and “I again urge on the worst of industrial organizers used the
you to consider your policy relations in other countries.” Huntington Beach Fresh and
on non-engagement in the Professor John Logan Easy as a test case. According
United States and advise your of UC Berkeley, who compiled to Logan, when a majority
executives at Fresh and Easy a recently-released report for of store employees asked
to meet with the UFCW [the UNI on Tesco’s practices in to organize, Tesco rejected
United Food and Commercial the United States, says that the request outright and has
Workers Union].” Fresh and Easy employees are consistently refused to meet
Locally, Mayor mostly part time and salaried with UFCW representatives.
Villaraigosa has attempted at $10 per hour. He says when (The UFCW is the United
to reach out to Leahy and, employees do get enough State’s largest private sector
7
trades union.) Nevada, but are postmarked relations, maintaining non- gala, politicians, labor
Michael McBride El Segundo, California, home union status and union advocates, union members,
of the UFCW contends that of Fresh and Easy’s corporate avoidance activities.” After clergy and Occidental College
Tesco has workers believing offices. publishing the ad twice, Tesco students were among a crowd
they could lose their jobs if Four Fresh and Easy said that it was a mistake. of about 100 outside calling
they attempt to organize. The employees, wearing their However, the company on Tesco to sign a community
UNI report states that pro- bright green company t-shirts, also recruited, as its chief benefits agreement, putting
legal advisor, the general in writing promises made
counsel who led Ralphs into in conjunction with the
In May, Fresh and Easy enacted a “non-solicitation” a 53-count federal indictment corporation’s entry into the
policy, which has the effect of preventing employees from for locking out 19,000 union U.S. marketplace to create
talking to fellow employees about union membership on employees and illegally good jobs, to locate stores
rehiring 1,000 under false in underserved areas and to
company premises. Union organizers conducting home identities with fake social operate in a manner respectful
visits in Las Vegas initially found workers to be receptive, security numbers. of the environment. A
but they now meet with what seems to be Fresh and Easy has community benefits agreement
also come under fire for its would be a legally binding
a standard, scripted threat to call the police use of scanning equipment in contract designed to ensure
if they don’t leave immediately. lieu of human checkers in its that local residents share in
stores. benefits of major development.
union employees have been joined labor and city officials “I don’t want a robot Tesco has refused to negotiate
isolated from co-workers, that at a recent City Hall press to figure out if a teen can buy such a document.
anti-union printed material conference announcing the beer or not,” says Alarcon. Local City
has been distributed and that release of the UNI report. A study by the Los Councilmember Jose
management has used the One of them spoke of seeing Angeles Alliance for a New Huizar and local State
“daily huddle” at the start of attempts to go union met by Economy (LAANE) has Assemblymember Anthony
each shift to convey the same intimidation of workers. found that many teens are Portantino both sent
anti-collective bargaining “They are so scared quite proficient at by-passing representatives to the 2007
message at all stores,
suggesting that the message
originates from the company’s (LA City Councilmember Richard) Alarcon, who is serving as the local chair for the
executive level. The name of Tesco Global Alliance, is mincing no words in describing his
one fired pro-union employee
attitude toward the corporate giant.
in Huntington Beach has
reportedly been invoked as “This company is trying to take over the world,” said the Councilmember at the City Hall
an indirect warning regarding press conference. “Do not be ripped off by these imperialist thinkers.”
what can happen.
Frank referred to Tesco as “a huge international conglomerate that moves capital
In May, Fresh
and Easy enacted a “non- across national boundaries.”
solicitation” policy, which
has the effect of preventing
employees from talking to they are going to lose their controls when self-checking event, during which a
fellow employees about union jobs,” said Dana (who gave out liquor. A pending measure delegation, including Huizar’s
membership on company only her first name), “and they by State Assemblymember then-Chief of Staff Joe Avila,
premises. Union organizers can’t in this economy.” Hector De La Torre will, walked to the store to deliver
conducting home visits in Las Deputy Mayor Frank if enacted, mandate ID a letter to company executives
Vegas initially found workers added that, when Fresh and verification via a face-to-face urging them to negotiate
to be receptive, but they now Easy opened its distribution transaction when alcohol is a community benefits
meet with what seems to be warehouse in the Inland purchased. De La Torre’s bill agreement. They were blocked
a standard, scripted threat to Empire, it specifically sought has passed the Assembly and at the parking lot entrance
call the police if they don’t out supervisors with union is currently pending before the by the VIP party’s contracted
leave immediately. The union avoidance experience. The State Senate. head of security. The security
reports having received a UNI report quotes a 2006 The Eagle Rock chief did agree to go inside
number of letters from Fresh Tesco advertisement for an Boulevard Fresh and Easy and see if an executive would
and Easy employees asking employee relations director has been no stranger to come out to receive the letter.
that they not be visited at as reading, “The incumbent controversy. On November 7, However, he returned quickly
home. The letters are from has primary responsibility 2007, as dignitaries gathered with the report that everyone
workers in Las Vegas, for management of employee inside for a grand opening was too busy.
8
 “That they can’t
send one representative,
only security, sent the wrong
message,” said Avila after the
event.
At the press
conference marking the release
of the UNI report, Alarcon and
others spoke of the changing
role of retail as an employer
in American life. Alarcon said
that his mother’s employment
in the retail sector enabled
his family to live a middle
class life style and provided
his family with health care
benefits. He grew up with a
sense that union membership
equated with quality of life.
At one time, a worker
in the United States could
reasonably hope to take an
entry level job while young
and move up through the same
company until retirement. That
aspiration has changed.
“They make you
not want to grow with the
company,” said Dana of Fresh
and Easy.
Alarcon, who is
serving as the local chair for
the Tesco Global Alliance,
is mincing no words in
describing his attitude toward
the corporate giant.
“This company is
trying to take over the world,”
said the Councilmember at the
City Hall press conference.
“Do not be ripped off by these
imperialist thinkers.”
Frank referred to
Tesco as “a huge international
conglomerate that moves
capital across national
boundaries.”
“Labor is building
those same international
relations,” the Deputy Mayor
said of the Tesco campaign.
UNI is releasing its
Tesco report in Britain, in
an attempt to create public
awareness and bring pressure
to bear on the corporation on
its home turf.
The United States
has apparently not been the
market place that Tesco hoped
for. According to Logan,
when Tesco opened its first
U.S. store in Glassell Park,
its plan was to quickly build a
chain of 1,000 Fresh and Easy
Neighborhood Markets with
200 stores open by the end of
2008. It has opened only 121
with four more coming this
summer.
Glassell Park
customers have noticed some
rethinking of retail offerings
lately, reflecting more of a
discount bent.
For the fiscal year that
ended in February, Fresh and
Easy reported year-on-year
losses of $208.5 million—
reportedly wildly higher
than Tesco budgeted for as it
established a foothold in the
United States.
“Tesco is losing
money hand over fist in the
United States,” says Logan.
New Look Planned
for Burbank Middle
School
Luther Burbank Middle
School is about to get a new
look. The Los Angeles Unified
School District has unveiled
plans for a campus make-
over that will include a new
multi-purpose building, a
gymnasium, classrooms and
considerable outdoor space.
A new entrance to the
school will be built on North
Figueroa where Tyler Hall, the
school’s auditorium, is now.
The entrance will feature a
gate and a social space flanked
by parking for teachers and
staff.
The decision to
set buildings back from the
street and put parking to the
front will have the effect of
moving structures occupied by
students off of the Raymond
Earthquake Fault. School
District officials stress that
no building on the Luther
Burbank campus has been
declared unsafe. However,
experts do believe that a quake
of magnitude 6 or larger on
the Raymond Fault could
break ground, and the district
is taking the prudent step
of rearranging the campus
design—while adding a
considerable number of new
amenities.
Beyond the entrance
area, a new Tyler Hall
multi-purpose building with
an auditorium, a practice
stage and drama, music and
choral classrooms will be
constructed. A new gym will
feature event seating, practice
courts and weight and fitness
and dance and aerobic rooms.
The new classroom building,
comprised of 12 classrooms
in two stories, and a garden
will be located to the rear of
the campus, where banks of
portable classrooms are now.
As befits a school
named for a botanist, the new
Luther Burbank campus will
feature a lot of plant life.
Senior Project Designer Devan
Mitchell of the architectural
firm gkkworks is making
ready access to an outdoor
environment an integral part
of the learning community.
The classrooms will open
onto a large outdoor area, with
classes able to move outdoors
readily. A teaching garden
will include native plant
specimens, planting beds,
an outdoor classroom, a rose
specimen garden and natural
habitat. There will be lots of
shade on campus, a feature
that Mitchell points out is
lacking in the current campus
design. The botanical elements
of the design will even carry
over into graphic motifs on the
new buildings.
The trees of the
current outdoor quad on the
campus will be kept, but
a raised platform will be
added, providing a place for
graduations and other events.
Concerns have been
raised by some parents and by
Board of Education Member
Yolie Flores Aguilar as to
how the new campus design
will be integrated with the
planned conversion of Luther
Burbank Middle School into
a campus of small schools.
Pursuant to a plan crafted by
Flores Aguilar and passed
by the board a year ago, by
2020 any district campus with
1,000 or more students that
does not specifically opt out
is to be divided into several
smaller school campuses.
Small campuses promote
better, more personalized
relationships between faculty
and students, and according
to Flores Aguilar, have been
shown to produce a host of
benefits ranging from better
academic performance and
higher teacher satisfaction
to increased parental
involvement and better
campus safety.
At a parents’ meeting,
where design plans were
presented, Flores Aguilar’s
Director of Community
Partnerships, Ron Palacios,
told parents that the board
member is indeed committed
to seeing Luther Burbank
become a “school of small
schools.” Palacios praised
the current principal, John
Samaniego, for turning the
school around, and he readily
acknowledged the need for
amelioration of earthquake-
related issues. But he also
passed around The total
building project is expected
to take about 2 ½ years to
complete. Work will begin in
August, and completion of all
plan aspects is hoped for by
February, 2012.
9
 Standoffs and Skirmishes: For years now, a struggle
over the merger of The
Southwest Museum
The Battle over the
in Mount Washington
and The Gene Autry
Museum of Western
Heritage in Griffith
Park has resembled
Southwest Museum:
a circling of wagon
trains. But June 30, in a
surprise development,
a committee of the Los
Angeles City Council
2003-2009
announced a zero-
tolerance policy for the
Western movie model and
sought to usher in a new
way of doing business—
With perhaps a treaty in hand, is the war over? one that does not rely on
Winchester Rifles versus
Who won? More importantly, it seems, who lost? bows and arrows so much
as diplomacy.
“I don’t think this
project can move forward
unless both museums are
By margaret Arnold on a sure footing,” said
Councilmember Bernard
Parks. Antonia Villaraigosa,
At issue is the
Autry National Center’s
desire to dramatically
enlarge its Griffith Park
facility--mainly to create
gallery space to house a
world class collection of
American Indian artifacts
relocated from Mount
Washington. The Autry
National Center was
formed through the 2003
merger of The Museum of
Western Heritage and The
Southwest Museum.
There are basically
three camps in the
conflict:
The Autry National
Center, under the
leadership of Executive
Director John Gray, wants
to see the Autry’s Griffith
Park campus expanded
and the Southwest
10
The Southweest under wraps-2008
collection largely
relocated. The Autry has
prominent supporters
including family
members of Charles
Lummis, who founded
the Southwest Museum
over a century ago; a
number of American
leaders including
Anthony Morales, Tribal
Chairperson of the
Gabrieleno/Tongva of San
Gabriel; Rudy Ortega, Jr.,
Tribal Administrator of
the Fernandeño Tataviam
Band of Mission Indians
and Paula Starr, Executive
Director of the Southern
California Indian Center,
plus members of the
Southwest Society, a
Blue Ribbon Committee
of local political, arts,
American Indian and
community leaders
announced by Mayor
Mount Washington’s City
Councilmember Jose
Huizar and Gray in 2007.
(The Southwest Society
was originally charged
with raising funds to
restore and revitalize the
Southwest, but is now
described by Huizar as
“formed to monitor the
Autry’s progress with the
Southwest Museum.)
Across the aisle
is The Friends of the
Southwest Museum
Coalition, with its
membership of about 80
organizations including 10
neighborhood councils,
preservation groups,
homeowner organizations,
arts collectives and
venues. The coalition
wants to see Mount
Washington’s Southwest
Museum campus retained of struggle, the matter treasure of international Levin’s design
as a full-scale museum was placed in the hands note. A second is that for the expansion of the
(as they were led to of City Councilmembers much of the collection Autry National Center in
believe it would be when Hahn, Cardenas, Parks, was, before the merger, Griffith Park would double
the original merger Reyes and Rosendahl. in grave danger at the the current amount of
agreement was signed) Hundreds of Southwest Museum, exhibition, storage and
where there are not gallery space without
proper climate controls any expansion beyond
As the Autry is located on public land in Griffith Park, which it leases from the City and where rain and the center’s current land
for $1/year, approval of the Environmental Impact Report (a hefty state-required silverfish have already parcel. It features open
document necessary before any new construction begins) would normally be taken a heavy toll on collections and visible
popular dioramas and storage that reveal the
the responsibility of the City’s Recreation and Parks Board. However, when the the basket collection. inner workings of the
City Attorney found a conflict of interest in the board chair’s status as a retired The galleries of the museum. Levin refers to
Southwest campus are the design as not rooted
partner in the Autry’s law firm, the matter was punted to the City Council’s Board of currently closed to the in a particular culture or
Referred Powers, which convenes when a board or commission is unable to act. public. The store is open period of time, but as
weekends, and there “finding its form from
are special events such the land,” with a fluid
and has gathered over people showed up at as artist exhibits the relationship between
7,000 signatures from City Hall for the Board second Saturday evening outdoor park and indoor
supporters. of Referred Powers of each month, but museum spaces. The
The list of hearing, and they arrived the galleries are being expansion is to be built
stakeholders impacted in wagon train-circling used for cataloging and in accordance with highly
by the Autry expansion mode. Long before the preservation work. The sustainable principles
also includes a third meeting’s scheduled start closure is a sore point, out of local and recycled
group—members of time, the large Board but the fact that the materials.
community groups from of Public Works Session Southwest collection But agreement
neighborhoods near Room was filled to needed professional stops cold when it comes
Griffith Park, most of capacity. Members of the intervention was never in to two very fundamental
whom want to see the Friends of the Southwest dispute. issues—the continued use
park kept as undeveloped Museum Coalition’s A third point of the Southwest site on
as possible and fear organizations milled in of nearly unanimous Mount Washington and
traffic and commercial the hallway, watching
uses associated with a with mounting annoyance
larger Autry facility. as a City Hall security
As the Autry is guard blocked their way There are, in fact, certain things all parties agree on.. One is that the Southwest
located on public land at the hearing room Museum collection of more than 240,000 American Indian artifacts is a major
in Griffith Park, which door while admitting
it leases from the City supporters of the Autry treasure of international note. A second is that much of the collection was, before
for $1/year, approval expansion. Fortunately, the merger, in grave danger at the Southwest Museum, where there are not proper
of the Environmental coalition members inside climate controls and where rain and silverfish have already taken a heavy toll on
Impact Report (a hefty were able to negotiate
state-required document a move of the meeting popular dioramas and the basket collection.
necessary before any to the even larger City
new construction begins) Council Chamber. Even
normally would be the there, the situation
responsibility of the City’s quickly became standing agreement is the the appropriate scope of
Recreation and Parks room only, and, with but worthiness of Autry development in Griffith
Board. However, when a few exceptions, it was architect Brenda Levin’s Park.
the City Attorney found Autry camp on the left, credentials. Levin has What was and
a conflict of interest in Southwest camp on the guided the historic is at issue is where
the board chair’s status right. preservation and the collection will
as a retired partner in There are, adaptive re-use work on be displayed after
the Autry’s law firm, the however, certain things some of the City’s most the preservation
matter was punted to the all parties agree on. significant architecture, and restoration are
City Council’s Board of One is that the including The Griffith completed. The Autry
Referred Powers, which Southwest Museum Observatory, Myron National Center intends
convenes when a board collection of more than Hunt-designed buildings to move most of it to
or commission is unable 240,000 American Indian at Occidental College and Griffith Park. At the
to act. Hence, after years artifacts is a major even City Hall itself. City Hall hearing, Grey
11
 addressed the insufficient since the merger,
space at the Mount including the just
Got Issues with L.A. City Hall? Washington site and
spoke of the need for
completed stabilization of
its tower.
GET INVOLVED! “space for interactive “The Autry has
exhibits, not dusty saved the Southwest
P.O. BOX 50791, storage bins.” Museum,” Gray told the
HIGHLAND PARK, CA 90050 On the other Board of Referred Powers
On the Web: WWW.HISTORICHIGHLANDPARK.ORG
Phone: (323) 256-8921
members.
Fax: (323) 315-9358 A number of the
MEETINGS HELD EVERY FIRST AND THIRD THURSDAY Autry supporters who
OF EACH MONTH, 6:30 P.M. spoke at the hearing
AT FRANKLIN HIGH SCHOOL (Cafeteria) were originally among
840 N. AVENUE 54 some of the merger’s
“Bringing City Hall Closer Your Front Door to
to Home” Los Angeles City government! harshest critics, but they
COMMITTEE CHAIRS: reported having been
Yvonne Sarceda Arts and Culture ysarceda@earthlink.net
2008-2010 Officers Chris Smith City Svcs./Transp. chris@angelcitybuilders.com won over by the Autry’s
Gemma Marquez Eco. Development gemmarquez@sbcglobal.net
Gloria Demeter Housing/Com. Dev. gloriasalvador@sbcglobal.net
support for American
• President – Dr. Richard W. Dyke
to_dr_dyke@yahoo.com
Maggie Godoy HumRel/Edu/Youth sisepuede75@hotmail.com Indian cultural expression
David Lee Baird Land Use bairdleey@yahoo.com
• First Vice President - Dr. Stanley W. Moore Christina Amezquita Outreach c_b_amezquita2yahoo.com and by the Autry’s
revdrmoore@sbcglobal.net Dr. Nicole Gatto PublicHealth/Safety nativewoman@earthlink.net
• Second Vice President – Dr. William E. Schenewerk AT-LARGE DIRECTORS: excellent treatment of
wschenewerk@msn.com
• Secretary – Jessica D. Godoy
Mauro Garcia incareal@juno.com the Southwest artifacts.
Ofelia Zuniga ofelia.3@netzero.com
Jessicadgodoy@gmail.com Linda Phelps KennelCom@aol.com David Goldberg,
• Treasurer - Jesus “Jesse” Rosas Vanessa Ruiz blucorn24@yahoo.com
chuyro6@aol.com Enma Espinoza lulitaecua@hotmail.com Activist Nicole Possert a partner in the Autry’s
Steve Crouch Call (323) 256-8921
Miriam Escobar Call (323) 256-8921 of the Friends of the law firm, Latham and
Humberto Escobar Call (323) 256-8921
Southwest Museum Watkins, presented what
Coalition was before the Board
HISTORIC HIGHLAND PARK of Referred Powers as
limited in scope, involving
NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL hand, the Friends of a proposed amendment
the Southwest Museum to the Autry’s 1987
Coalition finds the lease agreement with
two rooms that will be the City of Los Angeles
GREATER maintained at the current and acceptance of the
site (with the rest of the Environmental Impact
CYPRESS building devoted to a Report.
not yet clearly defined “Nothing in
PARK educational purpose) to the lease mentions
NEIGHBORHOOD COUNCIL be entirely insufficient. the Southwest,”
It contends that the said Goldberg. “The
Meets the Third Tuesday of Every Month merits of the collection Southwest Museum is not
WHEN: 6:30 pm Dinner - 7:00 pm Meeting begins are inseparable from before you today.”
WHERE: Aragon Elementary School, 1118 Aragon Ave.
its site overlooking Not so, countered
SOME OF OUR ACCOMPLISHMENTS: the Arroyo Seco, and Nicole Possert,
* The Cypress Park Walkabout
* Jobs for Cypress Park youth that the building, the representing what Board
* Land Use issues affecting Cypress Park oldest museum in Los of Referred Powers Chair
* Cypress Park Community Design Overlay Plan
* New Books for the Cypress Park Library Angeles, should itself be Janice Hahn referred
We have helped support: considered among the to as “the organized
* Cypress Park Community Center artifacts. The coalition, opposition.”
* Cypress Park Recreation Center
* Lummis Day Celebration therefore, insists that With the 2003
* Elyria Canyon “Clean & Green” Cleanup the Mount Washington merger, “the Autry
Cinco de Mayo Celebration organizing meetings- building must be became an entirely new
held 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the Cypress Park reopened as a fully institution,” said Possert,
Community Center - 929 Cypress Avenue
functioning museum that who chairs the Friends of
WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU! will meet all standards the Southwest Museum
WE INVITE YOU TO COME AND BRING YOUR for accreditation and for Coalition and represents
COMMUNITY ISSUES AND CONCERNS! school field trips. the Highland Park
Free child care is available: first-come, first-served. The Southwest Heritage Trust.
For more information: building has been According to
Call (323) 221-4740 or Visit www.gcpnc.info undergoing over $7 Possert, the Autry had
million worth of repairs no stated plans for
12
expansion before it
acquired the Southwest
Museum collection.
Clearly the expansion
and acquisition are tied
together, and therefore,
the coalition feels, the
effects on the Mount
Washington campus
must be included
in any discussion of
environmental impacts.
And the effects,
according to the coalition
presentation, would be
enormous.
According to
coalition members,
the structure and the
Native American dancers at the 2007 “funeral” of the
Southwest Museum.
collection are interlinked.
Possert asked the City
Council members to
imagine the Watts Towers
without artwork on them,
or the Gamble House
without its furnishings, or
the restored Los Angeles
Public Library building
with only the children’s
books left.
“CEQA (the
California Environmental
Quality Act) requires
analysis of direct and
indirect impacts,” said
attorney and Mount
Washington Homeowner
Alliance representative
Daniel Wright.
Wright contended
that, if the collection
were to be removed
from Mount Washington,
there would be impacts
in two CEQA categories,
land use and cultural
resources, that the Autry
is failing to examine.
The Autry’s
analysis of the situation
is based on a contention
that the Northeast
Community Plan--a city-
adopted document with
the weight of law, which
specifically states that
city decision makers may
take no action that would
result in the removal of
the Southwest Museum
from its present location
in Mt. Washington—does
Celebrating
Press Release goes here.
31 Years
Please re send in text format.
in Eagle Rock!
Could not open as is.
We are now doing orthodontics.
not apply.
The Board
of Referred Powers
received, however, a
20-page analysis from
three Northeast Plan
experts: 25-year City
Planner Terry Speth, who
oversaw the revision
and implementation
of the plan and Miki
Jackson and Diana
Barnwell, Northeast
Los Angeles residents
who participated in the
Community Plan Advisory
Committee for 13 years.
“The EIR goes to
extraordinary, indeed
preposterous lengths,
to deny that the Project
in Griffith Park has
any relationship to the
Southwest Museum’s
13
Arroyo Seco campus,” Autry’s EIR consultant, security plus information struggle has been far
the analysis says. “The PCR Corporation, on how any additional more complicated. The
reason for the forceful have conducted an costs to the City would third councilmember to
denials of any link intellectually dishonest be handled. They represent the district
between the Project and effort to draft false have concerns about since the merger
the Southwest Museum and misleading EIR building height and agreement, Huizar, in
campus is palpably documents and bulk and the use of 2006, told the Arroyo
transparent. If the City correspondence with the supergraphic signs—not Seco Journal that he
and Autry conceded that City claiming that there only as regards the supported keeping the
there is a significant is no land use impact on Autry expansion, but as Southwest Museum
negative land use impact the Northeast Community precedent setting for open “for a museum
from implementation of Plan.” Griffith Park as a whole. use” and “keeping the
the Project as proposed, Residents near There is a concern substantial part [of the
either of the options the Griffith Park Project on the part of many in collection] here [CD 14].”
contained in the Autry’s have land use concerns the area that facility In 2007, however, he
2004 Rehabilitation as well. expansion would end joined his predecessor,
Report for the Southwest “The Autry up being financed by Mayor Villaraigosa, in
Museum [a report is a welcome part increased rental of the accepting a “commitment
overseen by Levin, of our community,” center to outside entities memo” from the Autry
which concluded that the Greater Griffith Park (such as a July 25 Brew National Center laying
Southwest is sound for Neighborhood Council Haw Haw Beer Tasting out the Autry’s plan
rehabilitation to meet President Philip Gasteier Festival). They therefore for rehabilitating the
museum standards and told the councilmembers. want restrictions placed Southwest building, but
could generate at least “That does not give the on use of the facility for maintaining only 10% of
38% of its operating Autry or anyone else commercial events. the available space for
costs, which is within a blank check to do The Autry exhibitions.
the norm for museums] At the Board of
would mitigate such “The Autry is a welcome part of our community,. That does not give the Autry or Referred Powers hearing,
a significant land use Huizar appeared in
impact. CEQA would anyone else a blank check to do whatever person and sat through
require the City to select they want in Griffith Park.” the long process
the 2004 Rehabilitation among the community
Report plan if the
-Greater Griffith Park Neighborhood Council President Philip Gasteier stakeholders. When his
EIR ‘finds’ a potential turn to speak came, the
significant land use councilmember cited the
impact, and as we whatever they want in National Center is 2007 memo as providing
understand the politics Griffith Park.” located in City Council for keeping the current
of this issue, Autry, Gasteier District 4, represented Southwest campus
particularly its most presented a number by Councilmember Tom open as a museum
significant donor, Mrs. conditions neighborhood LaBonge. The Southwest with regular hours and
Autry, does not want a residents would have Museum site is in Council accreditation. Huizar
continuing obligation to to see met before District 14, represented took many present by
preserve the Southwest they could support by Huizar, (with the Casa surprise when he asked
Museum site on Mount Autry expansion. They de Adobe, a 1918 model that the memo be made
Washington as a part would want to see of a traditional Spanish into a legal document
of the Autry National proof of the availability Rancho house run by the and included in the
Center. We are of the of full financing for Southwest, located in Ed revised lease agreement.
opinion that the elephant the completion of the Reyes’ CD 1.) He asked for a master
in the room is that the expansion. (A year ago LaBonge whole- plan for the Southwest
Autry and the City both the Southwest Coalition heartedly supports the building and for further
KNOW there will be a commissioned a study Autry expansion. His discussion as to how
potential negative impact by an outside expert in Chief of Staff, Renee much of the Southwest
if the Autry is allowed to nonprofit administration Weitzer, attended the collection will be
remove the Southwest’s who determined that hearing, where she called displayed in CD 14.
collection and therefore the Autry does not seem the proposed design “The Southwest
the museum land use to have the assets it beautiful and said that it Museum is undeniably
from Mount Washington” claimed at the time represents an expansion part of the Northeast
“Accordingly,” of the merger.) They of green space in the community,” said Huizar.
the analysis concludes, would need to see an park. A page seemed
“Autry’s legal advisors, accounting of impacts Huizar’s to be turning in a long
Latham & Watkins, and on Park Rangers and participation in the saga. However, George
14
Mihlsten, a partner in a Southwest Museum the promises it made in project at Griffith Park
Latham and Watkins, Gold Line Station alone. the merger agreement,” altogether if I continue
speaking on behalf of the Parks worried that 19 said Wright the day to pursue with them
Autry National Center, deficiencies found in the after the hearing. “That any document which
responded to Huizar’s Autry’s traffic circulation would be a compromise, legally binds them to its
comments by saying, plan by an outside including an enforceable commitments made to
“We can’t agree to the consulting group were commitment to maintain me and to the City of Los
lease amendment.” being glossed over. the Southwest Museum Angeles.”
as the primary site to Representatives of
exhibit its fabulous CD 14-based community
Huizar has since sought public support for his negotiations with the Autry National collection in Mount organizations have met
Washington.” with Huizar, and the
Center. He has requested that community members write to the Autry, asking the Huizar has since Friends of the Southwest
center “to stand by its word and put its commitments to Los Angeles’ first museum sought public support for Museum Coalition has
in writing, in a legally binding document.” his negotiations with the issued a statement
Autry National Center. saying, “We agreed with
“I was looking to “Every treaty He has requested that the Councilmember that
move forward with this,” in this country has
said Board Chair Hahn. been broken,” said
Hahn commended Councilmember Tony “The pre-nups have not been completely sealed, I don’t feel this marriage is ready
Huizar for looking to Cardenas, making it
find a way forward, unanimous on the part to take place,” said Councilmember Hahn, adding that the 2007 memo was a
and concurred that the of the Board of Referred beautiful statement of vision, but that steps needed to be taken to ensure that it did
agreement needed to be Powers members that
codified. this meeting was going
not become just a piece of paper.
“The pre-nups to signal a new and
have not been completely enforceable means of community members the three key items
sealed, I don’t feel this cooperation, replacing write to the Autry, asking needed were: 1) legally
marriage is ready to any winners versus losers the center “to stand binding commitment that
take place,” said the model. by its word and put its could be accomplished
Councilmember, adding Hahn closed the commitments to Los in various forms; 2)
that the 2007 memo was 31⁄2 hour hearing by Angeles’ first museum 12,500 sq ft. of exhibition
a beautiful statement pointing out one more in writing, in a legally space for the Southwest
of vision, but that steps point all present could binding document.” Collection at the historic
needed to be taken to agree on. “I have been museum facility; 3) a
ensure that it did not “You are all here acting in good faith to timeline for re-opening.”
become just a piece of because of your love of bring agreement and/ On its part the
paper. museums,” Hahn said. or compromise to the Autry National Center
“You got it for Board has adopted a
a bargain, actually,” resolution that reads,
Councilmember Bill “The Autry shall not
Rosendahl said of the Board members also had concerns about traffic and transit-related development agree to any condition or
Autry’s acquisition of requirement imposed by
the Southwest Museum issues. Councilmember Ed Reyes spoke of the “millions and millions of dollars” the the City of Los Angeles
collection. City has invested in the corridor through Northeast L.A., including $25 million in a or any other third party
“I don’t want to on the Griffith Park
be here one day and find
Southwest Museum Gold Line Station alone. Improvement Project or
objects were moved out the amendment to the
of one facility and used to Huizar and the issue at hand,” Huizar Lease, which requires
raise money for another,” Autry were given four has written to the Board the Autry to make any
said Parks. weeks to attempt to of Referred Powers. commitments, financial
Board members work out an agreement. “However, I do not or otherwise, with
also had concerns about However, it has since believe that the Autry respect to the Southwest
traffic and transit-related become apparent that has taken seriously the facilities and collection in
development issues. it’s going to take a little Board of Referred Powers Mount Washington.”
Reyes spoke of the longer than that. instructions to work out The matter will be
“millions and millions “It has become with me options for a returning to the Board
of dollars” the City has clear that the Los legally binding document. of Referred Powers
invested in the corridor Angeles City Council The Autry Center has in September at the
through Northeast L.A., is prepared to require essentially threatened to soonest.
including $25 million in Autry’s compliance with abandon its expansion
15
 Infotainment
UNLIMITED
Local & Long Distance Calling

$ 24
Get UNLIMITED Local & Long Distance Calling for only $24.99/mo†!

SPECIAL OFFER
.99
Per Month†

Say No to HigHer PHoNe BillS!

• Our price STARTS LOW AND STAYS LOW .

try oNe MoNtH

SM

FREE!
Satisfaction Guaranteed<!
• No bundles, no hassles, no introductory
pricing — just reliable phone service at a
reliable price!

eaSy to SwitcH, eaSy to Save

• Keep your existing phone number^.
• Vonage® works with your existing home
phone and high-speed Internet connection.
• 25 Premium Features at no extra cost. See Details Below
• Free calls to 5 select European countries

Call: 1.888.461.1648
and call other International locations for as
low as 1 cent per minutev!

FREE MONTH OFFER ON $24.99 UNLIMITED RESIDENTIAL PLAN ONLY. PLAN FEE WAIVED BUT ALL OTHER CHARGES APPLY. NEW SUBSCRIBERS ONLY. V Free calls to
Europe Offer (available only with Unlimited Residential Plan) does not apply to certain call types, such as calls to cell phones, and is limited to Italy, France, Spain, UK and Ireland.
Other International rates may vary. See http://vonage.com/intrates for details. Vonage 911 service operates differently than traditional 911. See www.vonage.com/911 for details.
High-Speed Internet or Broadband Required. Alarms and other systems may not be compatible. † Rates exclude: broadband service, regulatory and activation fees and certain
other charges, equipment, taxes, & shipping. International calls billed per minute. Offer valid in the US only. See Terms of Service for details. < 30-day money back guarantee
is refunded for any paid activation fee, 1st month service charge, initial shipping charges and termination fee. Applicable only to first ordered line per account. Available only in
the event of timely cancellation for subscribers who have not exceeded 500 minutes of usage and who obtain a valid return authorization number from 1-VONAGE-HELP, and
Please
return of equipment in original condition andturn to within
packaging page 18 of cancellation. Refund will not include charges for taxes, international
14 days
Please usage, turnpayphone
to page calls to Vonage
18
toll free numbers and directory assistance. Offer revocable. ^ Where available. The number transfer process takes approximately 10 business days from the time you confirm your
16 transfer request. ©2009 Vonage.
 Find the Right College Today!
1-888-418-2308

FIND THE RIGHT COLLEGE TODAY!

Finding the right school used to be a long and tedious process... Not any more.

The Academic Advising Center has researched over 10,000 Colleges, Universities and Trade Schools already.

Whether you’re a High School Senior looking for a University in your area, a Business Professional
pursuing an Online MBA, or a Carpenter interested in Contracting, our Academic Advisors will help
you narrow down your search and find the right program for your goals, budget and lifestyle.

Give us a call today and one of our Academic Advisors can save you hours, even days, on your search!

This is a Free Service for Students of all Ages and Education Levels.

CALL TOLL-FREE 1-888-418-2308

Hours: M-F 9am-10pm EST and Saturday 9am-6pm.
Ad provided by MediaBids.com. 1-866-236-2259.
17
Lummis Day 2009:
It’s Not Just Music!
Five thousand of you were there.You certainly dont need us to tell you how great Lummis Day 2009 was. No
one from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame this year, but plenty of rock and roll. And not just rock and roll.
There was salsa, blues, some LA Country music and plenty of dancing. And plenty of hope that a community
beleaguered by violence can find a place and a day to celebrate. See you next year.
Photos by Art Villanueva (left) and Al Strange (right).

18
19
 Travel
SURF CITY!
Huntington Beach has a lot to offer,
even if you’re a total hodad
The waves at Huntington Beach are long-celebrated. But you don’t have to get your feet wet if you don’t want to.
by Edward Rivera
If only there was an
easier way to get there.
Huntington
Beach, one of the best,
and one of the most
noted surfing beaches
in Southern California,
sits along Pacific Coast
Highway, if you want to
head straight south on 1
until finally reaching its
beckoning sands.
Take the 405 to
Harbor or Warner and
it seems like all you’re
doing is driving. But if
you’ve committed to
weekend of sun and
surf, you do what you
have to do.
We visited the
beautiful Hilton Water-
front Resort in June, and
couldn’t have asked for
20
either better weather,
nicer accomodations, or
a better weekend over-
all.
The recently
renovated resort over-
looks the Pacific Ocean
and from our balcony,
we could see coastline,
sea and sand from this
end of the horizon to
that one.
This AAA four-
diamond-rated Hil-
ton hotel and resort
features 209 rooms
larger than my whole
apartment,with a variety
of amenities included.
All include private, fur-
nished balconies, most
with postcard views of
the coastline.
We dined at the
award-winning Shades
Restaurant and Bar,
which featured a spe-
actular buffet on our
first evening, and except
for a meal of smores on
the beach, every other
evening as well, with
equally delicious results.
The evening buf-
fet is wide-ranging and
almost evil in its attrac-
tiveness. Executive chef
Jeff Littlefield presided
over a gold mine of
grilled meats and vega-
tables along with a small
fortress of desserts,
including the inevitable
red velvet cupcakes. En-
tertainment is furnished
by a first-rate guitarist
and singer who accom-
panied himself tastefully
to pre-recorded tracks.
The combination
of the poolside location,
the food, the welcome
company and sunset
over the Pacific was de-
liriously seductive.
The Hilton’s
rooms were huge, with
luxurious drapes and
furnishings, a small bar,
a couch (!) and a large
plasma screen TV.
Any hotel is only
as good as it details,
and it’s in these details
that the Hilton Wa-
terfront Resort revels
and triumphs. We were
greeted with a small
plastic sand bucket and
shovel, should we decide
to venture in to beach
castle construction
and development over
the weekend.Also in
the bucket were skew-
ers, chocolate, graham
crackers, and all of the
necessary ingredients for
smores, a beach imperative.
Our first morn-
ing found us cruising the
strand on beach cruisers (of
course) with Hilton manager
JD Shafer and chef Little-
field, and reveling in the
sun, especially since it was
raining in LA that afternoon.
The executive chef
helped with the smores,
it was that kind of swank
weekend.
After a bountiful
breakfast at Shades, the ho-
tel restaurant, we boarded
a crazily decorated bus for a
ride to the Bolsa Chica Wet-
lands preserve, one of the
largest such bird sanctuaries
in the country.
Along the way, we
listened to the traditional
historic native music of the
locals, as performed by the
Beach Boys and Jan and
Dean. (Dean Torrance, he
of the famous 60s surf duo,
still resides in HB, and is an
unofficial ambassador of the
community.
Thousands of migrat-  The 411
ing and native birds filled
the skies over the Bolsa Chi- Huntington Beach is rated the “most
ca wetlands, as we strolled heavily surfed beach on the West
across a wooden walkway to Coast” by Surfer’s Almanac.
watch the aviary display.
From there it was on
to our beach cruiser ride Huntington Beach
where we joined members Surfing Museum
of the Hilton staff for lunch 411 Olive Avenue
and our memorable smores Huntington Beach, California 92648
feast. 714 - 960 - 3483
The Huntington 12 to 5 pm, monday through friday
Beach Surfing museum was 11 am to 6 pm, saturday and sunday
a particular treat for me
Saturday afternoon, the na- Bolsa Chica Wetlands Preserve
tive music being one of my info@bolsachica.org
personal favorites. There
Entrance at Warner Ave. and PCH
we saw displays of famous
(opposite Bolsa Chica State Beach)
surfboards, watch surfing
videos.There was surf rock
Huntington Beach, CA
god Dick Dale’s guitar, along Tel: 714 846 1114
with a host of other surf no-
tables. Kowabunga indeed. Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort
Saturday evening 21100 Pacific Coast Hwy, 
was another world-class Huntington Beach, California,
dinner chosen from a menu United States 92648-5307
of glorious grilled meats and Tel: 1-714-845-8000 
seafoods. I think I had one   Fax: 1-714-845-8424
of everything. Okay, maybe
I didn’t. It only felt like it.
You might choose the
Hilton Waterfront Resort as
your only mini-vacation this
summer, as frankly, it’s not
cheap. But econonics being
what they are, you can still
get a reasonable rate online,
and the hotel provides a
host of promotions to make
it a little easier.
The surf is up.
21
The Highlander Hybrid
Toyota’s Full Size SUV Reveals
a Few Surprises
by Candace Merrill buyers probably know improved 2009 Toyota I was pleasantly sur-
We recently had the op- that the term “hybrid” Highlander Hybrid is a prised at how maneu-
portunity to test drive doesn’t always mean full hybrid. verable it was. The car
the new Toyota High- the same thing. THer The 2009 Toyota High- practically turned itself.
lander Hybrid, a full are full hybrids that can lander Hybrid is virtually At times I forgot I was
-size family-style SUV. driving an SUV.
Having never driven The model I
a hybrid before, I was It’s a powerful car, but it’s not quick. It seemed drove had a keyless re-
curious about how to lack some serious pick-up, and you could mote and the first time I
exactly it worked and really feel and hear it when the gas engine pushed the starter but-
how it would perform. engaged. It was all a bit disquieting. And ton, I didn’t think it was
Our test model was fully because the car is so big and heavy, even with on. There was no sound,
loaded with most of the the hybrid engine, I was only getting about 24 to just some lights and
cool options the model 26 miles to the gallon around town. a friendly reminder to
offers, like a back-up drive carefully. The most
camera, rear dvd player entertaining part of the
and a GPS navigation actually be propelled identical to the Lexus interior was the dia-
system. It has two rows from a stop on electric RX 400h: a 3.3-liter V-6 gram that showed which
of rear seats that can be power alone, and there paired with two elec- power was being used.
folded down for carrying are “mild” hybrids that tric motors where the At very low speeds, the
cargo. This is one big just shut off the gas transmission would go, car ran on full electric
automobile. engine when the vehicle plus an electric motor to power, at higher speeds
Most US car isn’t moving. The much- drive the rear wheels. the gas engine engaged
22
and at times the all-wheel drive and s

Best Offer
electric engine was continuously variable
assisting the gas en- transmission (CVT)
gine. It was all very are both on the stan-

EVER!
interesting. dard menu. EPA fuel
It’s a power- economy estimates
ful car, but it’s not are 27 mpg in the
quick. It seemed city and 25 mpg on
to lack some seri- the highway; good

Call Now!
but not great for the
field, but below those

9
of popular car-based

$ 99
hybrids like the Prius, *
which are of course,
much smaller.
There are
three energy-con- MONTH
First 6 Months
serving modes. Nor-
mal and Acceleration For OVER 100 Channels with HD!

Make the Switch

modes are indicated
ous pick-up, and you on the power meter
could really feel and (the tachometer)

600
hear it, when the gas showing where peak
engine engaged. It fuel economy resides $ Sign up
was all a bit disqui- in the power band.
eting. And because The EV mode lets you bonus!*
the car is so big and run electric if you’re
heavy, even with the just running to the
hybrid engine, I was store and back, and
only getting about dont plan on racing Over
24 to 26 miles to the anyone to get there. 120 High Definition
gallon around town (I If you really Channels Available on
know this because it feel the need to drive
tells you 1080p
your gas
mileage
Available!
Call Right Now
on the and receive:
dash). 3 Months Free - 15 Movie Channels

The High- 1 Year of Cinemax for a Penny
lander Lowest Price Nationwide
Hybrid
$350 More in FREE TV Services!
uses a

1-888-483-8046
208-horsepower a tank, the Toyota
3.3-liter V6 engine Highlander is a good
along with three choice. It gets bet- Ad provided by MediaBids.com. 1-866-236-2259.

electric motors. ter gas mileage than Programming offers: Require participation in Digital Home Advantage with 24-month commitment. After promotional periods, customer
One motor starts most SUV’s in its must downgrade or then-current prices will apply. 6-Month Programming Credit: Requires subscription to qualifying programming.
Customer receives a credit for each of the first 6 months. Credit amount will depend on programming package selected. 3-Month
the gas engine and class and is highly Premium: Customer receives a credit for each of the first 3 months. Digital Home Advantage: Restrictions apply, including credit ap-
proval and monthly fees for receivers. Early cancellation fee applies. DISH Network retains ownership of equipment. Limit 4 tuners
recharges the SUV’s maneuverable. But if per account. HD programming requires HD receiver and HD television (sold separately). Customer must subscribe to qualifying HD
programming or a $5.00/mo. HD Enabling fee will apply. Lease upgrade fee will apply for select receivers based on model. DishDVR
nickel-metal hydride you don’t have four Advantage: Customer must be eligible for local channels. Discounted price applies unless customer downgrades from qualifying program-
ming or removes qualifying dual-tuner DVR receiver from account. Then-current prices will apply for all programming and equipment
battery pack. The children and a soc- fees. Cinemax offer: Requires AutoPay with Paperless Billing. If AutoPay with Paperless Billing is removed, Cinemax will be removed.
Offer ends 7/31/09 and is available in the continental United States for new, first-time DISH Network residential customers. All prices,
others provide the cer team, perhaps packages and programming subject to change without notice. Local and state sales taxes may apply. Where applicable, equipment rental
fees and programming are taxed separately. All DISH Network programming, and any other services that are provided, are subject to
driving power and you might consider a the terms and conditions of the promotional agreement and Residential Customer Agreement, available at www.dishnetwork.com or
upon request. Local Channels packages by satellite are only available to customers who reside in the specified local Designated Market
work as genera- smaller car if you’re Area (DMA). Local channels may require an additional dish antenna from DISH Network, installed free of any charges with subscription
to local channels at time of initial installation. Social Security Numbers are used to obtain credit scores and will not be released to
third parties except for verification and collection purposes only or if required by governmental authorities. All service marks and
tors during braking. concerned about gas trademarks belong to their respective owners. HBO® and Cinemax® are service marks of Home Box Office, Inc. $600 Sign up bonus
breaks down as: 3 Months of movie channels including HBO: $83.94 + Cinemax for a year for a penny $155.87 (requires credit card
There are a total of mileage and the envi- autopay and paperless billing) + $35 credit per month for 6 months: $210.00 (requires qualifying programming, credit amount varies
based on selections) + Free DHA-24 Activation $99.00 + 9 months of Digital Home Protection Plan $53.91. Total credits: $602.72.
270 horses and the ronment.
23
 Le Grande Orange: Tradition and
Foodielicious
Surprises Just a Few Stops Away
by David Auslender One dish that
From one train stop only used to be served
to another. Board the in the winter -The Brus-
Metro Goldline at the sels Sprouts Salad –
Southwest Museum or became so popular that
Avenue 57 stops, and it is now made year
head north to Pasa- round.
dena. There you’ll find But the custom-
yourself at one of the ers favorite, is undoubt-
coolest little restaurants edly the French Dip.
in the area—Le Grand Each prime rib sandwich
Orange, re-eastablished is sliced to order. None
at the original Del Mar are ever assembled
Southern Pacific railroad ahead of time. Chef
station, now of course, Gomez makes absolute-
a Metro stop. en,” both LGO establish- of greasy fried chicken. ly sure of this. He sin-
We sat down the ments owned by The bonus is that you cerely cares about the
other day with Chef Now Chef Gomez eat it with a cinnamon community he serves -
Jorge Gomez, execu- finds himself content- roll instead of bread, a philosophy reflected in
tive chef, and Allison edly working in a beau- which apparently the company itself.
Shashock, restaurant tiful kitchen built inside means that you still also LGO has always
spokesperson. It was of the historic Del Mar get to order desert. been about connecting
early afternoon, be- train station in a re-
tween the meal shifts.
We took a table and
cently renovated section
near Old Town Pasa-
A Simple Idea. Well-Executed.
began to chat. Chef dena. He walks to work,
Gomez looked so amaz- loves his wife, and just
ingly young, I just had became a daddy. This is
to enquire. most definitely a man
“I’m 27”, said you want cooking your
Gomez, “I started cook- food.
ing professionally at 17. So what are the
I’ve been in the kitchen, Chefs favorite dishes?
since I was like 10 or “I like the Reu-
12. My Grandma and ben,” he admits.Plain
Grandpa…my family is and simple, he says.
in the restaurant busi- Just the way he likes it.
ness all around. It’s a He also admits a taste
part of me.” for the restaurant’s new
He likes to say Roasted Chicken dish.
“Food is memories.” It’s “It takes 16 to
easy to see why. 17 minutes to cook, but
LGO Hospitali- it’s worth it. It’s tender M.A.N. Insurance Agency
ties has been holding on juicy meat held together Yolanda Y. Nogueira
to Gomez for over four by a crispy skin.”
years, and he’s become Allison likes the 5000 York Blvd. • Highland Park
a part of their family as fried chicken because 323.256.3151
well. He’s cooked in Ari- it’s white meat, and it’s xmanxins@sbcglobal.net
zona, at “Radio Milano” healthy and light, unlike Serving Northeast LA Since 1954.
and worked as a Sous the common conception
24
Chef at “Chelsea’s Kitch-
to the community, says find commuters drows-
Shashock, and Le Grande ily and hungirly eat from
Orange Café is intention- the new breakfast menu
ally structured for just before hopping on the
that purpose. train to work.Le Grande
Monday and Orange Café is a com-
Tuesday nights are what
they call “Neighborhood
Night,” which means buy Coming August 15:
one entrée and the sec- The Arroyo Seco Dining Guide:
ond one is only $5! Restaurants of Pasadena
Everyday until and Northeast lA
6pm kids eat free from
a special menu consist-
ing of Mac and Cheese, munity restaurant smack
Grilled Cheese, and dab in the middle of a
other fun foods that are major commuting hub.
so much healthier than Call it American
the fast food kids eat so food in a small town
much of these days. setting complete with a
On the weekend friendly well-trained staff.
evenings, you’ll find It’s a customized dining
Pasadenans as well as experience, with an eye
Angeleno twentysome- to tradition. And speak-
things crowded around ing of tradition, don’t
the bar sipping White forget to try the great
Sangria and grooving to English muffins.
the music. Oh hey, there’s my
In the morning, train. Gotta run!!

25
 Neighborhoods

Summer nights at Heritage Square Museum

There is something about summer. Of course, it’s the weather, but maybe there’s something about
the air that makes it the perfect time for music outdoors. As we’ve been traveling a lot this summer,
we’ve been fortunate enough to see music in so many forms in so many places. But it’s never the
same as home, as the people at the Heritage Square Museum know so well. Their free summer con-
cert series, sponsored by a host of community organizations, including the Arroyo Seco Journal, has
been a big success this year. If you’ve been there, here are some memories. If you have not, here
are some reasons to go in August.
All photos provided by Heritage Square Museum, 4500 Homer St. LA 90032.

26
 S:10 in
WE LIVE IN THE
HOUSE WE ALL
BUILD.
Every decision we make has consequences. We choose what we put into our lakes and rivers. We choose what
we release into the air we breathe. We choose what we put into our bodies, and where we let our children run
and play. We choose the world we live in, so make the right choices. Learn what you can do to care for our water,
our air, our land and yourself at earthshare.org. Earth Share supports more than 400 environmental and conservation
organizations that impact you every day.

Visit us at earthshare.org
27
 Home & Home Office Store

$10 off any order of $100 or more

with coupon code SV0001 until October 31, 2008.*

*Valid for HP Home & Home Office (www.hpshopping.com) internet purchases only. Any unused portion will be forfeited. Each
coupon code is limited to one usage per customer; one coupon code per checkout. Offer void where prohibited, taxed or restricted
by law. Non-transferable. Not valid retroactively on previously purchased items. Not valid for any resale activity as defined by HP
Home & Home Office Store. Coupons may not be used to purchase gift cards. May not be permitted with certain bundle offers.
Not valid on: Refurbished products, Extended Service Plans, Compaq Presario and HP Pavilion desktops with Intel Celeron or
AMD Sempron processors or Compaq Presario C700T or V6700TX customizable notebooks. For complete coupon conditions, see
FREE SHIPPING
“Coupon Information” in the “Customer Service” section at www.hpshopping.com. on orders over $100

Click www.hpshopping.com Call 1.866.377.2088

MagCloud.com
1501 Page Mill Rd, MS 1157 POSTAGE
Palo Alto, CA 94304

Address Label