lacityorgcd13

El Grito

2011-09-16T09:47:00.000-07:00

Last night, hundreds of Angelenos attended our city's El Grito festivities on Olvera Street.

El Grito celebrates Mexico's independence and is not only part of Mexico's history, but a part of Los Angeles's cultural heritage.

I'd like to thank Consul General of Mexico David Figueroa Ortega and Jose Duarte, President of the Comite Civico Patriotico, for joining us.

Celebrating the New Echo Park Solar "BigBelly"

2011-09-14T17:00:00.000-07:00

Today we installed a solar-powered “BigBelly” trash can on the corner of Echo Park and Sunset Boulevard. Because it has a built in compactor, the BigBelly unit can hold four times as much trash as the average trash can making it more cost-effective and more environmentally- friendly than traditional trash disposal options.

The BigBelly unit, which was funded through city grants, will help prevent overflow trash from ending up in storm drains and in places like Echo Park.

Thank you to everyone who helped make the BigBelly installation possible, including the Trash Abatement Project.

FAME Church's 7th Annual Back to School Giveaway

2011-09-14T15:15:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend, I attended the First AME Church and Economic Development Corporations' 7th Annual Back to School Giveaway and Health Fair.

Families from around Los Angeles enjoyed free health care screenings, food, and entertainment hosted by Power 106 FM. Kids were also eligible to receive a free pair of shoes, backpack and school supplies to help get them off to a successful new school year.

Silver Lake DWP Bypass Line Community Meeting, September 21

2011-09-14T14:17:00.000-07:00

Silver Lake community members are encouraged to attend a meeting to get updated on the West Silver Lake Drive Bypass Line.
The meeting will cover topics ranging from the line and site location for the construction tunnel, temporary walking path, and all impacts in and around the knoll area.

The meeting will take place on Wednesday September 21. Community members will meet at the Silver Lake Recreation Center (1850 W. Silver Lake Drive) at 6:30 p.m. to walk the construction site. A formal meeting will be held at the Recreation Center at 7 p.m.

Please contact Silver Lake Field Deputy Ryan Carpio at (323) 957-4500 for more information.

Celebrating the Hollywood Fountain Community Garden

2011-09-14T12:26:00.000-07:00

Last weekend, the Fountain Community Garden in Hollywood held a potluck BBQ to celebrate the work of community gardeners. It is so great to have such beautiful green space as a gathering place in Hollywood.

I want to thank all of the community gardeners who are making the garden a special place in the neighborhood.

Dedicating the Belmont High School Field

2011-09-14T11:23:00.000-07:00

On Friday night, I attended the dedication of the new Belmont High School Athletic Field, which my office helped get built with Proposition K and Community Development Block Grant funding.

Playing team sports can have a huge positive impact on kids’ lives, and I am thrilled that Belmont now has a wonderful new field for its students.

LA Equine Advisory Committee meeting - September 26

2011-09-13T14:25:00.000-07:00

All are invited to the LA Equine Advisory Committee meeting on Monday, September 26, at 6:30 p.m. at Friendship Auditorium (3201 Riverside Drive). The meeting will include a presentation by the Trust for Public Land on "Acquisition of Park Lands for Local Hikers and Equestrians."

For more information, please contact Lynn Brown at akalynnbrown@aol.com.

Hollywood Job Fair - September 15

2011-09-13T12:12:00.001-07:00

Looking for a job? The Hollywood Golden Age Spectacular Job Fair will feature more than 40 employees looking to hire. Participants are encouraged to dress in business attire and bring resumes.

The event will be held on Thursday, September 15, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Pantages Theater Lobby (6233 Hollywood Blvd).

The job fair is being presented by the City of Los Angeles, Managed Career Solutions, State Senator Kevin DeLeon, the Employment Development Department, Pantages Theater, and Los Angeles City College.

For more information, please contact Linda Daniels at 323/960-1300 or Marjorie Gardner-Cruse at 323-454-6100.

Blank Theatre Company celebrates 20 years in our community

2011-09-13T10:50:00.000-07:00

This morning we celebrated the Blank Theatre Company's 20th anniversary. For two decades, this non-profit organization has brought more than 30 productions to our community.

In addition to producing high quality plays for its Hollywood stage, the company also established a Nationwide Young Playwrights Festival for people age 19 and younger. It also has a workshop series to develop promising new talents.

Check out the website here!

9/11 remembered

2011-09-12T11:07:00.000-07:00

I would like to acknowledge the victims and first responders of 9/11 and the people across the Southland who took time to remember them on the 10th anniversary attacks this weekend.

Today, a new tower is rising from the smoldering rubble in New York, and as we commemorated this solemn occasion, events around Los Angeles also served to raise our spirit as a community. The seal of our great nation reads: e pluribus unum -- out of many, one. Here is a brief look at just a few of the events that brought Angelenos together this weekend:

The Museum of Tolerance held a ceremony at which the names of all 9/11 victims were read and candles were lit in their memory.

The Muslim Public Affairs Council and the Islamic Center of Southern California held a special ceremony, "Honoring America's Bravest," to recognize Los Angeles's first responders.

The Los Angeles Fire Department paid tribute to America's first responders.

And I was honored to work with the Los Angeles Council of Religious Leaders and clergy from around Southern California to present One Light, a gathering of hundreds of representatives from diverse houses of worship.

Youth Art Show in Elysian Valley

2011-09-09T14:42:00.000-07:00

The Elysian Valley Arts Collective is coordinating a neighborhood youth art show in conjunction with the Frogtown Artwalk on September 24. The show is being made possible through a grant from the Elysian Valley Neighborhood Council.

The EV Arts Collective will award youth art work in various age categories. Prizes include gift certificates for school and/or art supplies and cash awards.

Work must be submitted by September 19 to the Gallery Frogtown at 2808 Newell Ave in Elysian Valley. Artwork will be judged on September 23, and the awards will be presented from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on September 24 just prior to the Frogtown Artwalk.

Echo Park California Coastal Clean-Up Day

2011-09-08T14:12:00.000-07:00

Please join the Greater Echo Park Elysian Neighborhood Council on Saturday, September 17, for the Echo Park California Coastal Clean-Up Day.

Volunteers are needed from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the following locations:

Vista Hermosa Natural Park (100 N. Toluca Street at First Street)

GEPENC Office and Community Center (1572 Sunset Boulevard at Echo Park Avenue)

The Neighborhood Council will provide lunch to event participants at these locations.

To register for the event, please visit www.healthebay.org/ccd

Elysian Valley community yard sale -- Saturday, September 17

2011-09-07T14:15:00.000-07:00

Come to the Elysian Valley community yard sale on Saturday, September 17, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Elysian Valley Recreation Center (1811 Ripple St.).

Elysian Valley residents will be selling a variety of items including toys, books, clothes, bicycles, and tools.

Residents who are interested in having a booth to sell items at this event can contact the Rec Center at 323-666-5058 to ask for an application. The booth fee is $15.

Volunteer musicians needed for this Saturday

2011-09-07T09:21:00.000-07:00

The Silver Lake-based Pay It Forward volunteer band is seeking musicians to perform at nursing homes throughout Los Angeles this Saturday, September 10, in honor of National Grandparents Day.

More than 100 Pay It Forward members -- including professional musicians, students, and amateurs -- volunteer time to play music as part of smaller ensembles. They typically perform jazz or nostalgic music for seniors living in nursing facilities.

If you are interested in participating, please contact band director Gary Gamponia at 213/388-8500.

FREE job fair in Hollywood

2011-09-06T15:32:00.000-07:00

The Hollywood Hills West Neighborhood Council will host a free community job and resource fair on Thursday, September 22, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will take place at the Yucca Community Center (6671 Yucca Street) in Hollywood.

Candidates of all ages, experience levels and industries are encouraged to attend. Companies will be looking to fill full-time and part-time positions. Participants should bring resumes and dress professionally.

Council passes motions on Filipino veterans

2011-09-06T12:25:00.000-07:00

This morning the City Council passed two resolutions by Councilmember Richard Alarcon that put Los Angeles officially on record in support of two pieces of state legislation related to Filipino veterans. Assembly Joint Resolution 6 supports H.R. 210 - the Filipino Veterans Fairness Act of 2011, which would provide the benefits that were promised to Filipino veterans who fought alongside American soldiers during World War II. Assembly Bill 199 would encourage teachers in the Los Angeles Unified School District to include the history of Filipino veterans in World War II as part of social science lesson plans.

We must make sure our courageous Filipino veterans and their families get the benefits they were promised and earned. And we must teach the next generations about this important part of our American history so that their story is never forgotten.

Silver Lake stoplight activated

2011-09-06T11:41:00.000-07:00

Thank you to members of the Silver Lake community who joined me and Councilmember LaBonge during the Labor Day weekend to activate the new stoplight on the 2300 block of Silver Lake Boulevard. The new light will make it safer and easier for pedestrians to access the Silver Lake Meadow and the jogging/walking path around the reservoir.

Thank you to PAVA volunteers for cleaning up Hollywood!

2011-09-01T15:10:00.000-07:00

Thank you to the hundreds of young people who volunteered their time to help clean up Hollywood last weekend. Volunteers from the Pacific American Volunteer Association (PAVA) picked up trash around Hollywood, Thai Town, and Little Armenia. My office was proud to partner with PAVA on this clean-up day.

Arrest made in Silver Lake shooting

2011-08-30T11:38:00.000-07:00

Today I joined with LAPD in announcing the arrest of a suspect in the murder of Juan David Vasquez Loma, a pizza deliveryman who was shot in the head while driving in Silver Lake earlier this month. Police described the attack on Loma as apparent "road rage."

I want to commend the men and women of the LAPD for their work to apprehend the suspect in this case. Outstanding police work is helping Los Angeles to continue to reduce crime despite the conventional wisdom that crime increases during tough economic times.

Sustainable School Lunches workshop in Silver Lake

2011-08-18T15:01:00.000-07:00

Sustainable Silver Lake will host "Sustainable School Lunches," a free lecture by Jennie Cook. The event will be held on Saturday, September 3, at 11 a.m. at the Silver Lake Public Library (2411 Glendale Blvd.).

Ms. Cook is a local food advocate and caterer who worked with Jamie Oliver in his efforts to get healthy, fresh foods into LAUSD schools. She will be sharing her tips and strategies for creating a sustainable kitchen. She will also make and serve a healthy snack to inspire participants to eat their way to sustainability.

Make your voice heard on the proposed DWP rate increase

2011-08-17T15:14:00.000-07:00

All are invited to attend a summary session of the community input gathered on DWP's proposed rate increases. The session will be held on Thursday, August 25, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the DWP Headquarters (111 N. Hope St.). Parking is available off Hope Street.

The session will also be streamed live online at www.ladwp.com/LAForward. Those interested in participating can visit the site now to register.

Elysian Valley Graffiti Paint Off Day

2011-08-16T11:59:00.000-07:00

Come lend a hand at the Elysian Valley Neighborhood Watch and LAPD's Northeast Division Graffiti Paint Off Day on Saturday, August 27, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Volunteers will meet at Jardin del Rio Community Garden (Riverdale Ave at Crystal St), then split up in teams around Elysian Park to remove graffiti. Afterward, lunch will be provided at the garden.

Service hours are available to students.

Northeast LA Forum on City Council Redistricting

2011-08-16T11:18:00.000-07:00

The Northeast LA Coalition will host a Forum on LA City Council Redistricting on Thursday, August 25, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Glassell Park Senior Center (3750 Verdugo Rd.). Civil rights attorney Erica Tealsey Linnick, Coordinator of the African American Redistricting Collaborative, as well as others will discuss how Los Angeles residents can influence the redistricting process.

For more information, please visit http://www.northeastlacoalition.com/

2nd Annual Northeast Carnival

2011-08-15T16:04:00.000-07:00

Come one, come all to the 2nd annual Northeast Carnival when the LAPD transforms Eagle Rock Boulevard between Ave 33 and Verdugo Road into a fun-filled street festival! The event will take place from Friday, August 26, through Sunday, August 28.

Presale tickets are 50 percent off, and can be purchased at the Northeast Community Police Station (3353 San Fernando Rd).

For more information, please call 213-485-2548.

19th Annual Thai Cultural Day

2011-08-15T15:00:00.000-07:00

Come celebrate Thai heritage at the 19th Thai Cultural Day at Barnsdall Art Park on Sunday, September 18, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event will include Thai-themed cooking demonstrations, fruit and vegetable canning, dance performances, painting demonstrations, costume fashion show, arts and crafts, massages, kickboxing, and a variety of authentic Thai food vendors.

Admission and parking are free.

For more information, please visit http://www.thaiculturalcenter.org/ or call 310-890-9245.

El Grito - September 15

2011-08-15T14:35:00.000-07:00

Come celebrate Mexican Independence at the El Grito celebration hosted by the City of Los Angeles on Thursday, September 15, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the El Pueblo Historical Monument (125 Paseo De La Plaza).

El Grito, which means "the cry" in Spanish, is the traditional chant of independence dating back to September 15, 1810, when Mexico declared its independence from Spain.

The celebration will include indigenous Aztec dancing, mariachi music, regional folklore tellings, and much more. Admission is free.

Los Angeles Medical Center Farmers' Market

2011-08-10T15:18:00.000-07:00

Check out the Los Angeles Medical Center Farmers' Market at Barnsdall Art Park (4800 Hollywood Blvd)! This farmers' market is open year-round from noon - 6 p.m. on Wednesdays.

The LAMC Farmers' Market features approximately 20 farmers selling freshly picked, California-grown produce, fresh cut flowers, herbs and spices, seafood and cured meats in addition to 10 prepared-food booths featuring an array of ethnic cuisines.

The Farmers' Market accepts EBT/Foodstamps and WIC/Senior FMNP coupons.

For more information, call 323-463-3171.

Elysian Valley Block Party on August 20

2011-08-10T14:11:00.000-07:00

Join your neighbors at the Elysian Valley community-wide block party at the Elysian Valley Recreational Center (1811 Ripple Street) on August 20 from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. This free event will include a barbecue, food, music, inflatable giveaways, games, arts n’ crafts, community booths, and an outdoor movie beginning at sunset. Bring a chair or blanket to enjoy the movie.

For more information, please call 323-666-5058 or visit http://www.laparks.org/.

2011 Frogtown Artwalk - September 24

2011-08-10T11:57:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendar for the 2011 Frogtown Artwalk coming up on September 24 from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Artwalk is a free self-guided tour of studios and galleries in Elysian Valley along the Los Angeles River.

Artwalk visitors will be able to enjoy the newly completed pedestrian and bicycle path along the river. The street party will continue after 9 p.m. with after-hours music.

For location information, please click here. To view artist profiles, please visit www.frogtownarts.com.

Resource Fair at Glassell Park Recreation Center

2011-08-10T09:22:00.000-07:00

As part of the city's Summer Night Lights program, there will be a Resource Fair at the Glassell Park Recreation Center (3650 Verdugo Road) on Thursday, August 18, starting at 6 p.m. The fair will feature local government, schools, and community resources. In addition, there will be live entertainment, a raffle with exciting prizes, and free food.

For more information, please call 323-257-1863 or visit www.laparks.org.

Immigration Town Hall on August 16

2011-08-09T10:03:00.000-07:00

The United Methodist Church Immigration Task Force will present an Immigration Town Hall at the Wilshire United Methodist Church (4350 Wilshire Blvd) on August 16 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

The event will bring together interfaith leaders with immigrant communities to discuss the immigrant rights movement and proposed immigration legislation such the California Dream Act.

3rd Annual East Hollywood ArtCycle

2011-08-04T13:28:00.000-07:00

Get ready to ride on down to the 3rd Annual East Hollywood ArtCycle on Saturday, September 17, from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Santa Monica Blvd. stretching from Vermont to Virgil. The event, presented by the East Hollywood Neighborhood Council and the East Hollywood Arts and Culture Committee, will showcase East Hollywood’s budding art and bicycling cultures.

More than a dozen galleries, theaters, creative venues and artist live/work spaces will open themselves up to the neighborhood for a celebration of East Hollywood. The event will also include a street fair with artists and performers displaying their creations, alongside food and live entertainment offerings for the whole family.

For more information, please visit www.ArtCycleLA.com.

Atwater Movie Night Under the Stars

2011-08-04T09:37:00.000-07:00

Don't miss out on the last two Atwater Movie Night Under the Stars free community events this summer at Los Feliz Municipal Golf Course, presented by the Atwater Village Neighborhood Council!

"Raiders of the Lost Ark" will be shown on August 19, and WALL-E will be shown on September 16.

Gates open at dusk, and the show begins at dark. Blankets and picnics are encouraged. Concessions will be available, with all proceeds going to benefit local Atwater Village elementary schools. Please, no pets or smoking.

For more information, please visit http://www.atwatervillage.org/.

Pepper Preservation Workshop

2011-08-02T23:14:00.000-07:00

Peter Piper pick a peck of pickled peppers, right? But how were those peppers pickled? Come to the Hollywood Farmer’s Kitchen Pepper Preservation Workshop on August 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and find out how!

Participants will learn about freezing, fermenting, drying, smoking, canning and, of course, pickling peppers. The class fee is $85. Reserve your space by clicking here.

26th Annual Children's Festival of the Arts

2011-08-02T14:21:00.000-07:00

Bring your kids to the Hollywood Art Council’s 26th Annual Children’s Festival of the Arts on Sunday, August 14, from 12 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Paramount Pictures Studio (5555 Melrose Ave.).

The celebration of the arts and culture in Hollywood will be fun for the whole family, featuring a variety of music and dance performances, kids face painting, kids art workshops, and the chance to meet Looney Tunes characters.

Please enter the studio at the Bronson Gate, where there will be ample free parking on site.

For more information, call 323-661-7299 or visit http://www.hollywoodartscouncil.org/.

Free Whooping Cough vaccines

2011-08-01T17:55:00.000-07:00

Has your child had the whooping cough vaccine yet? LAUSD is requiring all children entering 7th through 12th grades to be vaccinated with the TDAP booster shot within the first 30 days of the academic year.

The Angeles Comprehensive Community Clinic (3920 Eagle Rock Blvd.) is offering free TDAP vaccines to low-income students enrolled in the Child Health and Disability Prevention program. The child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and children up to age 19 years-old are eligible.

To schedule an appointment, please call 323-255-5225.

Taking the Reins 'Salsa Under the Stars' Benefit

2011-08-01T17:03:00.000-07:00

Taking the Reins will host an Salsa Under the Stars benefit to support its youth programs on August 13 from 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Taking the Reins farmhouse in Atwater Village (3919 ½ Rigali Avenue).

Taking the Reins is a non-profit organization that works to inspire underserved girls facing the challenges of adolescence in high risk environments. Through riding and caring for horses, teens develop self-esteem, teamwork, responsibility and leadership skills.

The celebration will be emceed by Brandi Hitt from KTLA, and will feature live salsa music with the Ronnie Gutierrez band and special guest salsa performances.

Tickets are $65 in advance and $75 at the door. The price includes dinner, margaritas, and valet parking. To purchase tickets or to find out more information please call 323-906-1560 or visit www.takingthereins.org. a

Glassell Park community clean-up

2011-08-01T14:01:00.000-07:00

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Glassell Park community clean-up on Saturday! It was great to see neighborhood council members, LAPD officers, LAPD cadets, local school leaders, residents, and others helping to beautify the area around the Recreation Center.

I also enjoyed knocking on doors of residents who live in the area to hear about what's happening in the neighborhood.

Celebrating Navy Week

2011-07-29T12:08:00.000-07:00

This morning I was proud to join Vice Admiral Gerald Beaman and other members of the United States Navy to recognize Navy Week in Los Angeles.

As a member of the reserve component of the Navy myself, I have a first-hand appreciation for the work that the men and women of our Naval forces do to protect our country and our values at home and abroad.

There are many activities happening at the Port of Los Angeles to celebrate Navy Week. Click here to learn more.

Growing our city's technology workforce

2011-07-29T10:20:00.000-07:00

Last night I had the pleasure of participating in a conversation about developing Los Angeles's technology workforce. The panel discussion was sponsored by GOOD and the University of Phoenix.

We spent much of the time focused on how crucial it is that our Los Angeles community get our young people excited about aspects of math, science, and technology that relate to them to raise their interest in these subjects that are so crucial to our success.

Melrose Avenue Elementary School Principal Bernadette Lucas talked about the passion for learning that she sees in her students inspired by the school's robotics program. The teachers and faculty at her school regularly seek opportunities for their students to be exposed to people who have careers that utilize math and science. Her school provides every 3rd through 5th grader with a laptop that they take home with them everyday -- just one of the many ways the school community affirms its commitment to teaching technology.

Eric Hirshberg, CEO of Activision Publishing and a proud UCLA alum, talked about his desire to see more people of all ages being driven in their careers by their passion, creativity and innovation rather than financial incentives.

Audience members also had excellent comments and questions, including a college student who asked what the average person could do to help. The discussion continues online here -- click through to join in.

Foreclosure prevention assistance fair - September 17

2011-07-28T09:27:00.000-07:00

A Home Rescue Fair will be held on Saturday, September 17, to provide assistance to those who are at risk of foreclosure.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Goodwill Industries (342 N. San Fernando Road) in Lincoln Heights.

The fair will offer free bilingual face-to-face sessions with loan specialists, HUD-approved housing counselors and attorneys, and informational workshops.

My office is pleased to be a co-host of this event, which is sponsored by Assemblymember Gil Cedillo and the National Council of La Raza, in collaboration with the Montebello Housing Development Corporation.

2011 Water and Power Rates Input Summary Session Postponed

2011-07-27T17:16:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Water and Power Rates Input Summary Session previously scheduled for Thursday, July 28, has been postponed to Thursday, August 25, to allow more time for public comment. With the added time, LADWP hopes to gather more input from customers on potential strategic investments, and further analyze customer feedback.

The rescheduled session will take place at the same location as previously planned -- the LADWP headquarters (111 N. Hope Street) in Downtown Los Angeles. The meeting also be accessible as an online webcast.

If you plan on attending the Input Summary Session, please RSVP by clicking here, and be sure to indicate whether you will attend the meeting in person or will participate online. For more information about the 2011 rates process, please visit http://www.ladwp.com/LAForward.

Sign up now for the 5th Annual Historic Filipinotown 5K Run/Walk

2011-07-27T09:34:00.000-07:00

Sign up now for the 5th Annual Historic Filipinotown 5K Run/Walk! The race will kick off on August 6 at 7:30 a.m. at 1925 Temple Street, cutting through the heart of Historic Filipinotown with a rolling street closure along Temple Street.

The race is co-sponsored by the Historic Filipinotown Neighborhood Council, the Silver Lake Medical Center, and my office.

Festivities will follow the race from 10 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. and include live music and dance performances, LA’s top food trucks, and a fashion, travel, craft, and free health fair.

To register to compete in the race, please click here. For more information, please click here.

Northeast Los Angeles Police Department's Annual Senior Lead Officer Summit

2011-07-26T10:29:00.000-07:00

Please join the Northeast Los Angeles Police Department for the Annual Senior Lead Officer Summit held at the Dodger Stadium VIP Lounge on Thursday, July 28, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (1000 Elysian Park Ave).

Come meet Northeast Area Commanding Officers and your Senior Lead Officers, and get a crime update regarding your community. This is your opportunity to ask questions and discuss the LAPD's goals in crime reduction.

To RSVP please contact Sgt. Danny Roman at 213-485-2548 or 22195@lapd.lacity.org.

Sustainable Silver Lake workshop - "The Great Pacific Garbage Patch and How We Can Help Shrink It"

2011-07-26T09:08:00.000-07:00

Sustainable Silver Lake will present “The Great Pacific Garbage Patch and How We Can Help Shrink It” with Dave Weeshoff on Saturday, August, 6 at 11 a.m. at Silver Lake Library (2411 Glendale Blvd.)

Mr. Weeshoff works with the Algalita Marine Research Foundation and is a Senior Ambassador for Heal the Bay. He will discuss the plastic plague in the world’s oceans, its causes, consequences, and possible resolutions.

The lecture is part of Sustainable Silver Lake’s “Sustainable Saturdays” free lecture series exploring various aspects of sustainable living.

After the discussion, there will be a chance to win a ZAPino scooter valued at $3500 in a free raffle give-away.

Sidewalk Enhancement Project at Santa Monica and Western

2011-07-25T16:45:00.000-07:00

Starting today, the Department of Public Works will begin sidewalk, curb and gutter improvements at the intersection of Santa Monica Blvd. and Western Ave. The construction is estimated to last a few weeks.

All construction will be done at night between 8 p.m. and 5 a.m. Monday through Friday, and between 9 p.m. and 8 a.m. on Saturday.

Please be aware that “Tow Away – No Parking” signs may be placed on the street prior to construction and some driveways may be temporarily out of service.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the supervisor Joaquin Villanueva at 213-216-4265 or at the main office at 213-847-2966.

2011 Hollywood Relay for Life

2011-07-25T16:42:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Hollywood Relay for Life is this Saturday, July 30!

It's not too late to sign up for a team or donate money to Relay for Life, which supports the American Cancer Society. The event begins at 9 a.m. at Helen Bernstein High School, and concludes at 8:30 a.m. the next morning.

Relay For Life is a life-changing event that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and fight back against the disease. Teams of people camp out and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Because cancer never sleeps, Relays are overnight events up to 24 hours in length.

For more information, please click here.

Bank of America foreclosure prevention assistance

2011-07-25T16:40:00.002-07:00

Bank of America will host an event for its customers experiencing financial hardship to help prevent them from falling into foreclosure. The event will take place at the Los Angeles Convention Center from August 4 to 6 and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. each day (1201 S. Figueroa Street, Concourse Hall EF).

Customers will be able to meet face-to-face with Home Loan Specialists to review loan modifications and other foreclosure prevention alternatives.

Complimentary parking will be available in the West Hall parking lot.

To register, click here or call 1-855-201-7426.

Northeast Community Police Advisory Board Meeting

2011-07-25T13:20:00.000-07:00

The monthly Northeast Community Police Advisory Board Meeting is tonight from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the Los Angeles Police Department Northeast Division in Glassell Park (3353 San Fernando Road, Roll Call Room).

The discussion will address current crime statistics and updates on criminal activity, and potential problem areas in the Northeast, and will include LAPD Senior Lead Officers, the LA City Attorney’s Office, guest speakers, and community members.

Glassell Park Community Cleanup

2011-07-25T11:57:00.000-07:00

This weekend, my office will co-host a community clean-up in Glassell Park from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Volunteers should meet at the Glassell Park Community and Senior Center (3750 Verdugo Road) and be dispatched to clean-up locations along Fletcher Drive, Verdugo Road and San Fernando Road.

Volunteers may want to bring their own work gloves and sunscreen. Clean-up equipment and refreshments will be provided.

For more information, please contact Senior Lead Officer Leo Rey at 213-793-0758 or at 32490@lacity.org.

National Night Out - August 2

2011-07-23T12:17:00.000-07:00

Please join the CD13 neighborhoods and the Los Angeles Police Department in celebrating National Night Out. Events will take place around the city on Tuesday, August 2, from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Bring your family and friends to enjoy free food, music, entertainment, games, and a community resource fair.

In CD13, events will be held at:

Walgreen's parking lot
1625 W. Sunset Blvd.
Echo Park

Church of Scientology Los Angeles
4810 Sunset Blvd.
East Hollywood

2011 Pioneer Woman - Yolanda Brown

2011-07-22T13:25:00.000-07:00

Each year, Councilmembers have the privilege of recognizing an outstanding woman from our districts as Pioneer Women. This year, it was my honor to recognize Yolanda Brown.

Yolanda is the Parish Life Director for the Blessed Sacrament Church in Hollywood. She's a shining example of the pioneering spirit as well as a leader and guiding force in the Hollywood community.

Earlier this month, Archbishop Jose Gomez appointed Yolanda to serve as Blessed Sacrament's Parish Life Director. Prior to her work with this church, she spent seven years as Pastoral Associate for the Dolores Mission Church in Boyle Heights. She also had a career in banking before being compelled to seek a higher calling.

I'm proud to honor Yolanda today for the work she does to help so many families in our Los Angeles community.

Share your ideas at SCAG's transportation workshop

2011-07-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

Help cut greenhouse emissions and share your ideas on the future of eco-conscious transportation in Los Angeles!

The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) will host a workshop as part of the process of creating a new Regional Transportation and Sustainable Community Strategy on August 16 from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the SCAG Main Office (818 W. 7th Street, Board Room, 12th Floor).

For more information, please contact Marie Silva by phone at 213-236-1904 or by email at silva@scag.ca.gov. You can also click here.

Community Forum on Glassell Park youth

2011-07-19T10:57:00.001-07:00

The Glassell Park Neighborhood Council’s Faith-Based Group will be hosting the Community Forum to Examine Critical Issues Impacting the Quality of Life for Glassell Park Youth on Thursday, August 11, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Community Career Development Center (2930 Fletcher Drive).

The forum will consider youth violence, youth employment, career development, computer and tutoring classes, exploring community outreach, and vocational training as factors affecting neighborhood youth.

Refreshments will be served. Please RSVP by August 4 to Art Camarillo by phone at 323-254-8473 or by email at go@sgbvc@att.net.

Friends of the Silver Lake Library book sale

2011-07-19T09:23:00.000-07:00

Join the Friends of the Silver Lake Library (2411 Glendale Blvd) for its quarterly used book sale. The sale will take place on Saturday, July 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Proceeds will help support the neighborhood library.

Volunteers are needed to help with the book sale. If you are interested, please contact cheryl@cherylrevkin.com.

Thank you to everyone who helped clean up the Lemon Grove tunnel this weekend!

2011-07-18T17:01:00.000-07:00

Thank you to the community members who came out this weekend to help clean up the Lemon Grove tunnel that goes under the 101 freeway in Hollywood. My office was proud to partner with
CalTrans, LAPD, Senator Gil Cedillo's office, the Assistance League, and the Volunteer Center to coordinate this event.

Dozens of volunteers helped to landscape along the bank of the freeway, pick up trash, and plant vines against the freeway wall to deter would-be graffiti vandals.

The area is looking much better and it goes to show how much can be accomplished in just one morning if we work together.

Libraries are now open on Mondays!

2011-07-18T12:47:00.000-07:00

This morning I was very pleased to join students from Noble Elementary School and Ramon Cortines High School to announce the re-opening of our public libraries on Mondays. Due to budget constraints, the libraries had been closed on Mondays since August 2010.

Thanks to voter-approved Measure L, we now have the funding to reopen the libraries on Mondays and will restore service to 2009 levels over the next four years.

Angelenos across the city can now visit their local library on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., in addition to the regular Tuesday through Saturday schedule.

LADWP 2011 Rates Process Webinars

2011-07-14T14:51:00.000-07:00

The Department of Water and Power will be holding webinars for residential and commercial customers on July 20 to discuss the 2011 Rates Process. The online sessions are part of LADWP’s community outreach on potential water and power rate actions.

The commercial customer webinar will take place from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m., and the residential customer webinar will take place later that evening from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Each webinar will feature a live presentation by LADWP General Manager Ronald O. Nichols, followed by a question-answer session and a comment period.

During the webinars, participants will have the opportunity to provide LADWP with important feedback on the rates proposals via an online survey.

Click here to register for a webinar or learn more about the 2011 Rates Process.

Customers may also complete the online survey at any time. To take the survey now, click here.

Town Hall Meeting on the Echo Park Lake Rehabilitation Project

2011-07-12T10:54:00.000-07:00

Please join us at a Town Hall Meeting to discuss the Echo Park Lake Rehabilitation Project underway on July 20 at 6:00 p.m. at St. Paul's Cathedral (840 Echo Park Ave). The project team will be there to answer questions.

For more information, please click here.

826LA’s Everything You Know is Ping Pong Tournament

2011-07-11T09:12:00.000-07:00

Come compete or support Everything You Know is Ping Pong, a ping pong tournament of champions fundraiser to benefit 826LA on July 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the Echoplex (1154 Glendale Blvd.).

826LA is a non-profit organization that works with local students to help them improve their writing skills and works with teachers to help them inspire students to write.

Anyone can participate in the tournament, either by competing, raising funds, or coming to watch the action.

To sign up to compete, buy tickets, or learn more, please click here.

Thinking about law school?

2011-07-11T09:11:00.000-07:00

The United Methodist Church will host a free seminar for college-age women considering law school. Although the seminar will be geared toward the church's members, non-members are welcome to attend.

The event will take place at the UCLA Downtown Labor Center (675 S. Park View Street) on July 13 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. The informal dinner dialogue will include a panel of three Latina law students who will share their insights on taking the LSAT, the law school admissions process and the law school experience.

Lotus Festival this weekend

2011-07-08T10:53:00.001-07:00

Celebrate summer at the 33rd Lotus Festival at Echo Park Lake!

This free community event will be held Saturday, July 9, from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday, July 10, from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Echo Park Lake (between Glendale and Echo Park Ave, just north of the 101 freeway).

The Lotus Festival presents an opportunity to learn more about our city's Asian and Pacific Islander American communities' cultures -- art, music and dance performances, and food will be featured throughout the park.

For more information, please click here.

Friends of the Cahuenga Library Book Drive and Book Sale

2011-07-07T11:54:00.000-07:00

Clean up your home and help the Friends of the Cahuenga Library (FOCL) by donating your gently used CDs, DVDs, audio books, Blu-ray discs, and video games. You can drop off donations at the library (4591 Santa Monica Blvd.) or call 310-747-4888 to arrange for free pick-up of donations of 100 books or more.

At the end of its donation drive, FOCL will host a book sale on July 16 at the Cahuenga Library from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. All proceeds will support the library’s literacy and children’s programs.

For more information, please click here.

Free kids crafting class in Elysian Valley

2011-07-07T09:28:00.000-07:00

Kids can create their own masterpieces at “Crazy Crafts,” a free arts and crafts class offered by the Elysian Valley Arts Collective. Classes are held Wednesdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Elysian Valley Recreational Center (1811 Ripple St.). Children ages 4 to 12 are welcome.

For more information, please call the Elysian Valley Recreational Center at 323-666-5058.

Summer Night Lights 2011

2011-07-06T10:15:00.000-07:00

Get ready for Summer Night Lights 2011, free late-night programming for the whole family at public parks and recreational centers across Los Angeles. SNL begins tonight, July 6, and will run through September 3. Each location will have extended hours on Wednesday through Saturday nights from 7 p.m. until midnight.

Glassell Park Recreational Center and Lemon Grove Recreational Center in my Council District are part of the program. For a full listing of participating locations, please see the SNL 2011 flyer to the right.

After launching “At the Park After Dark,” a similar program that kept Glassell Park open late during Summer 2007, I'm thrilled that the park will be open late during the summer for the fifth year in a row and that residents across the city will now have access to safe, supervised evening summer programs through Summer Night Lights.

Maria meets the press

2011-06-30T16:04:00.000-07:00

Echo Park's beloved goose, Maria, met the press and showed off his new digs at the L.A. Zoo today. He (yes, Maria is male) was joined by his best human friend Dominic, an Echo Park resident with whom he developed a deep friendship.

Ear lier this year, Maria moved to the zoo in advance of the start of a major rehabilitation project at Echo Park (you can read more about the project here). In addition, the media attention around his potential homelessness led to threats to his safety.

Now Maria has a private lawn and pool in the Winnick Family Children's Zoo. Dominic visits him nearly every day and is happy that he's in a safe environment where he'll make thousands of new friends.

Central City Action Committee rummage sale

2011-06-30T10:10:00.000-07:00

Come to the Central City Action Committee’s four-day rummage sale taking place July 5 through July 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Edgeware Road Fire Station in Echo Park to support the non-profit youth program’s summer recreational programming.

Central City Action organizes youth graffiti removal and provides recreational programming and guidance to kids to keep them on track to success.

Women’s Transportation Technician Training Opportunity

2011-06-29T09:43:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles Trade Tech will offer a special transportation training program to prepare women for careers in sustainable transportation. The summer program is designed specifically to help women thrive in this non-traditional female employment role.

Participants must be at least 18 years of age, and must meet one of the following categories: unemployed or underemployed, high school non-completer, or previous offender.

The session runs Mondays through Thursdays from July 18 to August 24 from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Interested women must complete the interest questionnaire here. For further information, please contact the LATTC Bridges to Success Center at 213-763-5560 or at http://www.college.lattc.edu/bridges.

Government 101 workshop

2011-06-28T16:23:00.001-07:00

Are you interested in learning about the legislative process and becoming a more effective advocate for your neighborhood? Please join Council President Garcetti at Government 101, a free workshop for community residents. The workshop will take place at City Hall (200 N. Spring Street) on Wednesday, July 20, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. .

The event is free, but RSVPs are required. RSVP here or via email to marta.segura@lacity.org or by phone at 323-957-4500.

Los Feliz Village Street Fair

2011-06-28T16:00:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendars for the 18^th Annual Los Feliz Village Street Fair on Sunday, July 24, from 11 A.M. to 10 P.M on Hollywood Boulevard (between Vermont Ave. and Hillhurst Avenue)!

Enjoy fabulous food from Los Feliz restaurants, wine and beer gardens, live music, dancing lessons, artistic exhibits, street painting displays, a ‘Green Scene’ eco-showcase, a mind-body-spirit pavilion and a fashion festival with runway shows. Bring the whole family -- there will be carnival rides and other attractions for kids.

For more information, click here.

Hunger Action LA Fundraiser

2011-06-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

Help combat hunger in Los Angeles while you fill up on a delicious Haitian meal at Tigeorge’s Chicken (309 N. Glendale Blvd.) on Friday, July 8, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Proceeds will help fund Hunger Action LA’s Veggie Voucher program, which helps more than 1,000 low income families obtain fresh produce.

Tickets may be purchased for $20 in advance or for $25 at the door. To RSVP please call 213-388-8228 or email frank@hungeractionla.org.

Survey LA coming to Echo Park

2011-06-21T14:43:00.000-07:00

The Office of Historic Resources will be hosting a SurveyLA Community Workshop on Thursday, June 23, at the Edendale Branch Library (2011 Sunset Blvd) from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

SurveyLA is the city's first-ever comprehensive effort to identify places with important social, historic, or cultural associations in Los Angeles. This workshop will inform participants of how they can provide information about locations to include in this survey.

To RSVP or for more information, please contact Bryan Fahrbach or Robby Aranguren at 626-793-2400 or myhistoricla@gmail.com.

Sustainable Silver Lake presents "What is the Electric Car?"

2011-06-21T13:01:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, July 2, Sustainable Silver Lake will host a free screening of What is the Electric Car?, a new feature length documentary about Electric Vehicles (EVs) soon arriving in dealer showrooms. The film presents an inside view of an industry expected to grow to over $200 billion in revenues the next 15 years and features interviews with key manufacturers, vendors, drivers and pioneers in the EV industry, and many more.

The screening will begin at 11 a.m. at the Silver Lake Public Library (2411 Glendale Blvd). Following the screening, there will be a question and answer session with the film's producer and a free (one ticket per film attendee) raffle give-away of a new ZAPino 100% Electric Scooter

PAVA in the Hollywood Christmas Parade

2011-06-20T17:02:00.000-07:00

This morning I was very pleased to welcome Pacific American Volunteer Association (PAVA) as the first Korean American showcase entry in the Hollywood Christmas Parade. PAVA’s entry will be include more than 180 youth dancers, drummers, and other musicians. The parade is seen by millions of people around the country and provides great opportunity to show off our city’s diversity and the Korean American community’s dynamic cultural contributions to Los Angeles.

PAVA is a volunteer organization that encourages Korean Americans to participate in community service with an emphasis on our environment. Their involvement in the parade will be a terrific addition to this long-time community tradition.

New state-of-the-art production facility opens in Historic Filipinotown

2011-06-20T13:52:00.000-07:00

This morning I attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for Occidental Studios’ new state-of-the-art production facility. The soundstage is approximately 14,000 square feet with an additional 6,000 square feet of office space, conference rooms, dressing rooms, and hair and make-up rooms. It is conveniently located in Historic Filipinotown, just west of Downtown Los Angeles.

Keeping filming in Los Angeles is important to our local economy -- not only employing those who work on productions, but supporting jobs in related industries such as catering. The new soundstage will help us reaffirm Los Angeles as the world's entertainment capital and help keep our city working.

Glassell Park Community Garden Block Party

2011-06-20T13:51:00.000-07:00

Come celebrate the grand opening of the Glassell Park Community Garden (3304 Drew Street) with Council President Eric Garcetti at a block party on Saturday, June 25, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. A dedication ceremony will be held at 11:30 a.m. and tours and activities for kids will take place throughout the morning.

For more information, please contact Sally Martinez at (323) 478-9002.

Hope to see you there!

Hollywood Farmer's Kitchen presents Pickle University

2011-06-16T14:31:00.000-07:00

Love pickles? Come to the Hollywood Farmer's Kitchen's “Pickle University” class to explore the world of pickling on Saturday, June 25, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Farmer’s Kitchen (Sunset & Vine complex, at the corner of Selma Avenue and Morningside Court).

Participants will go home with at least one jar of homemade pickles. The class fee is $80. Reserve your space by clicking here.

Free Financial Literacy Workshop in Glassell Park

2011-06-16T13:30:00.000-07:00

The Cypress Family Source Center will hold a free financial literacy workshop next Thursday, June 23, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Glassell Park Recreational Center (3650 Verdugo Rd).

For more information, please call the Cypress Family Source Center at (323) 266-1682.

Sign up now for 826LA workshops

2011-06-15T09:21:00.000-07:00

Middle and high school students can have fun and show off their creativity while boosting their literacy skills at one of 826LA East's summer camps. Workshops include playwriting, journalism, and even rock opera.

All classes are free. Some classes are available for students as young as 6 years old.

For more information about summer camps, please click on the flier at right.

Silver Lake Improvement Association Annual Meeting - June 27

2011-06-14T09:38:00.000-07:00

The Silver Lake Improvement Association will hold its annual meeting on Monday, June 27, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Holy Virgin Russian Orthodox Cathedral (650 Micheltorena Street).

Echo Park Lake Birdwalk this Sunday

2011-06-13T14:31:00.001-07:00

Join your neighbors in the Echo Park Lake Birdwalk this Sunday, June 19. The fun begins at 8 a.m. when participants will gather at the Echo Park Lake Boathouse to begin the walk, which will end at 11 a.m

According to event organizers, summer birds at the lake include Mallards, great-tailed grackles, robins, American coots, sparrows, finches, great egrets, black-crowned night herons, green herons, blackbirds, hawks, and various gulls and doves.

Beginning birders as well as children accompanied by their parents are encouraged to participate.

The walk is free. Participants are encouraged to bring binoculars, a bird guide, water, and a hat.

For more information, please contact judycalifornia@yahoo.com or 323-663-6767.

What's that construction on First Street?

2011-06-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) is installing a new trunk line to improve water service to its customers. The work will mean that stretches of First Street/Beverly Boulevard between Dillon and Van Ness will be intermittently closed between now and July 2012.

Work is currently being completed on First Street between Catalina and Vermont. Next month, crews will be working between Vermont and Madison.

Local access for residents, businesses, and schools will be provided.

For more information about the project, click here to go to the LADWP website.

Make your voice heard on DWP rates!

2011-06-13T12:45:00.000-07:00

The LA Department of Water and Power (LADWP) will hold seven regional community meetings to get input on setting its water and power rates. Participants will have an opportunity to learn more about the LADWP's budget and to voice their opinion on proposals that could impact water and power rates. A summary session will be held July 20 at LADWP’s downtown headquarters.

The dates and locations of the community meetings are listed below. You can click here to RSVP for any of the meetings.

East San Fernando Valley:
Wednesday, June 15, 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Marvin Braude Constituent Center (Van Nuys City Hall)
14410 Sylvan Street
Van Nuys 91402

West San Fernando Valley:
Thursday, June 16, 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Holiday Inn – Warner Center
21101 Ventura Boulevard
Woodland Hills 91364

North San Fernando Valley:
Saturday, June 18, 10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Los Angeles Mission College
13356 Eldridge Avenue
Sylmar 91342

East Los Angeles:
Monday, June 20, 2011, 6 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Boyle Heights Technology Youth Center
1600 E. 4th Street
Los Angeles 90033

South Los Angeles:
Tuesday, June 21, 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
California African American Museum-Exposition Park
600 State Drive
Los Angeles 90037

West Los Angeles:
Wednesday, June 22, 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Stephen S. Wise Temple
15500 Stephen S. Wise Drive
Los Angeles 90077

Port of Los Angeles:
Monday, June 27, 6:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Crowne Plaza Los Angeles Harbor
601 S. Palos Verdes Street
San Pedro 90731

Summary Session- Downtown Los Angeles:
Wednesday, July 20, 6:30 – 9 p.m.
LADWP Headquarters, A-Level
111 N. Hope Street
Los Angeles 90012

Berry preservation workshop

2011-06-10T15:42:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, the Hollywood Farmer's Kitchen presents a berry preservation workshop. Students will learn a number of techniques such as canning, freezing, drying and pickling. They will also take home a preserved berry item

The class will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hollywood Farmer's Kitchen (1555 N. Vine). The fee is $80.

Click here to sign up today by 5 p.m.

Greater Echo Park Elysian Neighborhood Council Honoring First Responders - June 16

2011-06-08T13:15:00.000-07:00

The Greater Echo Park Elysian Neighborhood Council will host a community reception honoring Echo Park's first responders from LAPD's Northeast and Rampart Stations, LAFD Station #20 and the General Services Office of Public Safety.

The reception will be held on Thursday, June 16, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at the St. Paul Cathedral Center (840 Echo Park Avenue). It is free and open to the public.

My office is proud to support this event. Other organizations involved are the Echo Park Security Association and the Positive Energy Group as well as other elected leaders.

RSVP by Tuesday, June 14 to Lisa Baca-Sigala at (323) 660-7234 or via email at bacasigala@earthlink.net

KCRW's Guest DJ

2011-06-08T09:07:00.001-07:00

Council President Garcetti's appearance on KCRW's Guest DJ Project will be previewed on Morning Becomes Eclectic.

Tune in around 11:00 a.m. if you're interested!

(You can also click here to listen online now.)

Global Green's 15th Annual Millennium Awards

2011-06-07T15:53:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend I attended the Global Green Millennium Awards where I had the pleasure of presenting the L.A. Business Council (LABC) with the California Environmental Leadership Award.

The LA Business Council was recognized for its long commitment to creating and retaining environmentally clean energy jobs. Among their efforts, the LABC is collaborating with Global Green on establishing a solar feed in tariff for Los Angeles. It also hosts an annual Sustainability Summit to bring together business leaders, government leaders, and environmental experts to share best practices on incorporating sustainability into business models.

30th Anniversary of Centers for Disease Control report recognizing what would become the AIDS epidemic

2011-06-03T12:17:00.000-07:00

This morning I joined leaders in Los Angeles's fight against HIV/AIDS to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the first Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that recognized what would eventually become the AIDS epidemic. The year after the report was released, the term "AIDS" was coined and the following year researchers discovered HIV.

I was honored to introduce Dr. Michael Gottlieb, the report's primary author, who today reminded us that "now is exactly the wrong time to back off" in our efforts to prevent HIV/AIDS.

Although it's a solemn occasion, this anniversary is a time to reflect on the progress we've made toward addressing the health and service needs of those living with HIV/AIDS and to recommit to meeting the tremendous challenges that remain.

For more information about the City of Los Angeles's efforts on HIV/AIDS, please visit the website of the AIDS Coordinator.

Thank you, Consul General Dayan!

2011-06-01T09:46:00.001-07:00

On Friday, the City of Los Angeles bid an official and fond farewell to outgoing Israel Consul General Jacob Dayan, who has served in the Los Angeles post since 2006 and has a long and impressive history of public service.

While in our city, Mr. Dayan has been a pillar in the Jewish community and the diplomatic corps as well as a friend to Los Angeles, working to promote a deeper understanding of our people, cultures, and countries. We thank him for his service.

Congratulations, Rosalia!

2011-05-31T14:37:00.000-07:00

For the past few years my office has partnered with Belmont High School to present a Cash for College workshop to help local students access financial aid for college. At these workshops, trained volunteers give students and their families one-on-one assistance with completing the federal student financial aid application. State and federal funding to help college students goes unused every year simply because their families can't figure out how to properly complete the complicated form.

All students who participate in a Cash for College workshop also become eligible to win a Cash for College scholarship through a random drawing. Last week, I got to surprise one lucky Belmont student -- Rosalia Sebastian -- with a scholarship to help her pay for her studies next year.

Congratulations, Rosalia!

Congratulations to the Clean and Connected Communities grantees

2011-05-31T14:33:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to all of the applicants who are being awarded Clean and Connected Communities grants for neighborhood beautification projects in our Council District.

You can read more about the program and access a list of the grantees by clicking here.

Upcoming Echo Park Time Bank events

2011-05-31T09:57:00.000-07:00

Come learn about time banking at a free public workshop hosted by the Echo Park Time Bank on Saturday, June 11, from 5:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the Micheltorena School Community Garden (1511 Micheltorena Street). The event will be followed by bring-your-own- utensils member potluck.

Later in the month, the Echo Park Time Bank will also be hosting the June Saturday Social on June 25 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Echo Park Lake.

Greater Echo Park Elysian Neighborhood Council townhall meeting - May 28

2011-05-26T15:45:00.000-07:00

The Greater Echo Park Elysian Neighborhood Council will hold a townhall meeting on Saturday, May 28, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Edendale Library (2011 W. Sunset Blvd.). Neighborhood stakeholders are invited to provide their input on 2011-2012 neighborhood council budget priorities.

For more information, please contact Jose Sigala at 213/308-2826 or jose_sigala@yahoo.com.

LADWP 2011 Business Development Expo

2011-05-25T10:32:00.000-07:00

The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power host its annual Business Development Expo on Thursday, June 9, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at LADWP Headquarters (111 North Hope Street, Auditorium and A-level lobby).

The Expo will provide valuable information on how to do business with LADWP, and is an opportunity to learn about contracts, programs, products, and services offered by LADWP and other city departments.

Expo participants will also have an opportunity to network with representatives from Merriwether & Williams Bond Assistance Program and the Southern California Minority Business Development Council.

Admission is free. RSVP at DWP.WKY@LADWP.COM. For more information, please call 213/367-EXPO or visit www.ladwp.com/businessexpo.

Check out the new Bicycle LA website

2011-05-25T09:48:00.001-07:00

Check out the Bicycle LA revamped website! It’s got all the latest information on LA bicycle maps, parking, public transit access, safety guidelines, cycling resources, and bicycle engineering.

See you out on the road!

Free business workshop

2011-05-24T13:20:00.000-07:00

Learn more about the resources available for business owners at the "Your Business Is Our Business" workshop presented by the City of Los Angeles' Community Development Department and the Pacific Asian Consortium in Employment.

Topics will include business tax benefits for those in State Enterprise Zones and Federal Empowerment Zones, opportunities with WorkSource Centers, and the Valley Economic Development Center's citywide finance program.

The event is free and will be held Wednesday, June 1, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. in the Wilshire Boulevard Temple's Stalford Hall (3663 Wilshire Blvd.).

For more information or to RSVP, please contact George Smallwood of the Community Development Department at 213/744-7113 or george.smallwood@lacity.org.

Volunteers needed in Silver Lake

2011-05-23T15:17:00.000-07:00

Come paint a mural and enjoy a free scoop of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream this Saturday, May 28, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Micheltorena Elementary School in Silver Lake! The community-created mural will decorate the school's kindergarten yard.

You can get more information or sign up for event at http://flavorpill.com/thehookup/benandjerrys/enter.html.

14th Annual JVS Strictly Business Luncheon

2011-05-23T14:54:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday, I had the honor of presenting an Inspiration Award to Staff Sergeant Steven Walker at Jewish Vocational Services' (JVS) 14^th Annual Strictly Business Luncheon.

Walker (pictured with me at right) received help from JVS after returning from his military service in Kuwait. Through a program that serves veterans, JVS arranged for Walker to receive job training in the health care field. He recently completed his training and internship, and is now receiving job placement assistance from JVS.

Founded in 1930, JVS operates 18 training and counseling centers in Southern California, providing comprehensive career services to more than 30,000 people of all faiths each year. JVS serves a wide range of clients from at-risk youth to seasoned professionals to veterans to refugees and immigrants.

Click here for more information about JVS.

Citizenship training classes

2011-05-23T13:16:00.000-07:00

The Los Angles Community College Workforce Readiness Academy is offering free non-credit classes to assist in acquiring U.S. citizenship. The courses prepare individuals for the citizenship interview and oral examination. Upon completion of the classes, individuals will receive a Citizenship Skills Certificate of Completion. Classes will be held Tuesdays 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 at the Cypress Park FamilySource Center (929 Cypress Avenue). Please call for registration information at (323) 226-1682.

"Greenlit" to screen as part of Sustainable Saturdays

2011-05-23T10:50:00.000-07:00

The Silver Lake Public Library offers a series of free programming to provide information and guidance to residents on sustainable living.

Its “Sustainable Saturdays” lecture series will present a movie screening of Greenlit and a Q&A with director Miranda Bailey on June 4. Greenlit documents the production of The River Why as it works with a green consultant to maintain an environmentally-friendly set. The film screening is free and begins at 11:00 a.m. at the Silver Lake Library (2411 Glendale Blvd).