On June 20, the City of Santa Monica will present its initial plans to replace the vital but 100-year-old California Incline. The public is encouraged to hear the presentation at the city’s library and help shape final plans, which many Pacific Palisades residents fear could snarl traffic for months. Santa Monica, along with the state Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration, released an 800-page draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) late last month. And it provides preliminary details for the large-scale project. February 2008 is the latest reported start date for the project, which could last 10 months, but the date has been postponed several times. Engineers say that the Incline, which ascends from Pacific Coast Highway to Ocean Avenue along a high, unstable bluff, is deteriorating and needs large structural repairs. The new Incline would be approximately 750 feet long and 51 feet wide–nearly six feet wider than the current three-lane road. The extra space would be used to accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists, not an additional car lane. The Incline has been largely unchanged since 1940, and engineers believe that the Incline is ‘entirely supported on soil along the eastern side,’ according to the draft EIR. City engineering studies describe significant damage from the Sylmar and Northridge earthquakes, citing chipping concrete and exposed concrete rebar. If the final Incline plans are approved, new ‘pile bents’ would be built below the surface of the bluff, which would give the Incline greater structural support. Also, a new railing would be built. No new lighting is currently proposed and engineers say the Incline would ‘not look very different.’ Because the Incline is considered structurally deficient by federal standards, it is eligible for federal funding, which could defray the estimated $8.6-million reconstruction costs. But federal and state funding could also mean a loss of local decision-making. Eugenia Chasid, the city engineer managing the program, told the Palisadian-Post that only 30 percent of the project has been designed and that developing it further could jeopardize federal funding. Concerns over the potential effects on local roads, Pacific Coast Highway and roads in the SM Pier area are widespread among Palisades residents. Many fear that the City of Santa Monica, which is politically unaccountable to residents of the Palisades, could design plans that disregard local residents and neighborhoods. One such neighborhood that stands to be most affected is Santa Monica Canyon, which is part of Los Angeles, not Santa Monica. Residents there anticipate that small local roads like West Channel and Entrada will become clogged with drivers trying to reach 7th Street in Santa Monica. George Wolfberg, president of the Santa Monica Canyon Civic Association, told the Post that no other issue is more important to residents there. ‘There are other issues that people care about, but this would hit people in the face every day for months,’ said Wolfberg, who has followed plans to reconstruct the Incline for years. Last June, the Palisades Community Council unanimously passed a resolution that urged the City of Santa Monica to adopt traffic plans that minimize the impact on the community. The resolution was also sent to L.A. City Councilman Bill Rosendahl in hopes that he would apply political pressure on Santa Monica. Among the key recommendations that the Council made are the following: ‘ Require around-the-clock construction by the contractor ‘ Provide large bonus for early completion and substantial penalties for preventable delays ‘ Direct traffic away from Santa Monica Canyon, using ‘enhanced signage’ ‘ Develop a contingency plan if traffic on Entrada Drive is backed onto San Vicente Boulevard The upcoming public forum will be organized in an open-house format, and the public will have a chance to submit written and verbal comments on the draft EIR. The EIR can be downloaded from the Internet at www.smgov.net/engineering/index.asp and can be read in print at the Santa Monica Main Library, 601 Santa Monica Blvd. To attend the city’s public forum, visitors should go to the library’s multipurpose room. The forum begins at 6:30 p.m. and is expected to last until 8:30 p.m. ——- To contact Staff Writer Max Taves, e-mail reporter@palipost.com or call (310) 454-1321 ext. 28.
Dolphins Go Inside… Then Out
Seven Hit Batters Warrant Investigation After 11-1 Semifinal Loss to Chatsworth
Photo by Dave Siegel
Palisades High Coach Tom Seyler thought he had the right gameplan for last Wednesday’s City semifinal against top-seeded Chatsworth: pitch inside to jam the Chancellors’ vaunted hitters. While it seemed a sound strategy on paper, in practice it proved to be a recipe for defeat. By the time it was over, four Dolphins pitchers had combined to hit seven batters, walk 11 more and throw three wild pitches. Toss a run-scoring balk into the mix and the result was a humbling 11-1 loss in six innings–the second straight season Palisades has exited the playoffs by way of the mercy rule. “We asked for this game, we wanted this game,” Seyler said after Chatsworth’s Matt Moreno ended matters with a RBI single off Dolphins reliever Austin Jones. “Their batters like to crowd the plate so our strategy was to pitch them hard inside first, then work them away later on.” Unfortunately, the fourth-seeded Dolphins (23-10) were so preoccupied with the first part of the plan that the latter was all but abandoned. Perhaps feeling the lingering effects of his 128-pitch effort in Palisades’ quarterfinal victory over Roosevelt five days earlier, starter Cole Cook was not sharp. The Dolphins’ Pepperdine-bound ace allowed a RBI single to Bobby Coyle in the first inning, but his teammates got the run back in the top of the second when Johnny Bromberg led off with a double and scored on a line drive off the right field fence by Oliver Goulds. Palisades did not mount a serious threat again until the sixth and by then the outcome was a foregone conclusion. After Cook (10-2) hit opposing pitcher James Wharton with one out in the second, Chatsworth took the lead for good when Nick Devian singled to score Kasey Toven. The Chancellors entered the game with 74 home runs–one shy of the state single-season record–but needed none of their power to plate four more runs in the third on two bases-loaded walks, a hit batter and a balk. “Yes, you can pitch inside but you have to have control,” said Chatsworth Coach Tom Meusborn, who implored home plate umpire Chris Chegwin to issue a warning after Coyle was plunked leading off the fourth. “If this was a college or pro game, things could’ve gotten out of hand. When you hit that many guys obviously there’s some intent.” Bromberg relieved Cook and proceeded to walk the bases loaded in the fifth before a strikeout allowed him to escape the inning unscathed. Things turned ugly in the top of the sixth when Chatsworth reliever Trent Jones beaned leadoff hitter Eric Verdun in the back. “Was that retaliation on their part? That’s for the umpire to decide,” Seyler said. “But the fact that our pitchers weren’t warned even after the fifth or sixth time tells me [Chegwin] didn’t think we were doing it deliberately.” In the home half of the sixth Wharton was hit for the fourth time in four at-bats and Devian followed with a triple to knock Bromberg out of the game. All-City shortstop Andy Megee took the mound next but hit Chatsworth third baseman Matt Dominguez on his first pitch and was immediately ejected. For Megee, a three-year varsity starter headed for Yale, it was a disappointing end to his high school career. “Not at all,” he said. “This is not the way you want to finish your last game and I feel awful.” Seyler said he had the right gameplan but that his pitchers simply were not able to execute it. “In Andy’s case I called for a fastball in on the hands but the ball tailed away,” Seyler said. “Our pitching was just horrible today and as a result we come off looking very bad.” The score might have been even more lopsided had Chatsworth not left the bases loaded three times and stranded 12 runners. Senior shortstop Mike Moustakas, City Player of the Year last spring and the state record-holder in both single-season homers (24) and career homers (52), had nothing but praise for Cook, who allowed four hits and struck out five in his first loss since the Dolphins’ season-opener. “Cole is an unbelievable pitcher,” said Moustakas, who along with Dominguez is likely to be picked in the first round of Thursday’s major league draft. “He’s got a lot of heart, he’s a great competitor and I’d take him on my team any day.” The Chancellors (30-4) went on to win their seventh City Section championship with a 2-1 victory over West Valley League rival Cleveland Saturday night at Dodger Stadium, but Chatsworth Principal Jeff Davis isn’t laying the Palisades game to rest just yet. John Aguirre of the City athletics office confirmed Monday that Davis sent him a written report last week and Pali administrators have been asked to investigate whether or not Seyler ordered his pitchers to hit Chatsworth batters on purpose. “I thought I made it really clear beforehand that we do not want to hit people,” Seyler said. “Maybe there was some misperception on the players’ part, I don’t know. But hitting seven guys was not part of the plan. There could’ve easily been 10 hit batters the way we were pitching.” El Camino Real, another West Valley League team, needed the minimum five innings to mercy Palisades, 15-2, in the quarterfinals last year.
CLASSIFIED ADS FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 31, 2007
HOMES FOR SALE 1
ANGUILLA, BRITISH WEST INDIES. Situated on one acre with 200’ of waterfront and spectacular views of 4 islands, this private, romantic, Caribbean water’s edge one-of-a-kind West Indian Villa with an established rental income history is available for $2M. Contact: (264) 497-3282 or anguilla@earthlink.net
HOMES WANTED 1b
WE BUY HOUSES, APTS & LAND! ALL CASH, AS-IS, FAST CLOSE. David, (310) 308-7887
UNFURNISHED HOMES 2a
DUPLEX, 863 HAVERFORD. $3,150/mo. Pets welcome, 2 bdrm, 1 ba, all app., gardener, garage incl, near beach & village center, quiet street. Available 6/4/07. Call agent Linda Taylor, (310) 994-0168
FULLY RENOVATED 3 story Mediterranean home. 1/2 block from beach. Built by J. Paul Getty for his mistress. 4 bdrm, 6 ba, billiard room w/ wet bar. 800 bottle wine cellar, 4 person elevator, several patios & decks & a multi-level yard w/ jacuzzi. Hardwood flrs, California tile, steam shower, 2 indoor Jacuzzi tubs, 3-car garages, loft storage. $15,000/mo. One or more year lease required. For more information or to set up an appointment please contact us at (213) 494-0059 or at fidel68@sbcglobal.net
ATTRACTIVE 3 BDRM, 1.75 BA plus bonus room, large master bdrm. All appliances, corner home with view. Gardener incl. Available 7/5/07. Short term lease to 5/31/08. $4,200/mo. (310) 454-1669
UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS 2c
UNUSUAL 1,800 SQ FT upper apt. in Mediteranean triplex near bluffs. 2 bdrm+bonus rm, 1 ba, tiles, wood floors, plantation shutters, frplc, ceiling fans, garden. $3,500/mo N/S, no pets. (310) 804-3142
LARGE 2 BDRM+2 BA, carpet, w/d, dishwasher, balcony, walk-in closet, F/P. Village close, controlled access bldg. $2,895/mo. Call (310) 230-4110
1 BDRM, 1 BA VINTAGE 6 unit building. Hardwood and tile, laundry, parking, lots of light. Available June 1st. Approx 700 sw. ft. $1,625/mo., 1 yr lease. (310) 230-9479
CONDOS/TOWNHOMES FOR RENT 2d
OCEAN VIEW POINT DUME Townhome with private beach key. 2 bedroom 2 story home with garage parking and laundry fac. $3,200/mo. Available now. Call Catherine, (310) 487-3018
STUNNING OCEAN VIEW, designer interior 2 bdrm+2 ba condo. 1/2 block to beach. 7 min. to SM. All new granite, marble, hdwd flrs, cabinets, appliances, hi ceilings, large deck. Huge closets. W/D, garage. 1,200 sq.ft. $3,900/mo. (310) 230-4200 • www.malibucoastline.com
HEART OF PACIFIC PALISADES. 2 bdrm, 2 ba. corner unit. Balc, F/P, Din+study areas. W/D, D/W, all app. 2-car garage pkg w/ storage. Pool+gym. 1 yr. Lease. Avail. 7/1. $3,300/mo. (310) 454-0351
WANTED TO RENT 3b
PROFESSIONAL FEMALE, 48, quiet, non smoker, no pets, local references, looking for a beautiful & peaceful place to live in Pac. Pal. Tel. (310) 717-6829
DR. LAURA OF Laura’s Wholesome looking ISO bright, quiet home with view. Professional with low key, quiet life and no pets looking for a new home. Have outgrown current space. Friendly and considerate neighbors a bonus. Flexible about date of move. Email: homeflowersmusic@yahoo.com or (310) 821-9409
3 BDRM + HOME or larger or condo for month of August. Need yard and good neighborhood. (310) 393-1171
OFFICE/STORE RENTALS 3c
PROFESSIONAL BUILDING in Pacific Palisades. Newly painted, renovated suite with new pergo laminated floors. Pleasant office space located in village. 862 sq. ft. Call Maria, (310) 230-6712 x114
PALISADES OFFICE spaces avail in the heart of the VILLAGE. 1.) 250 sf with views of the Santa Monica mountains. Best suite in building. 2.) 750 sf 2-room suite and reception area with large windows, great natural light, balcony. Add’l office space avail. for lease: 3.) 1,150 sf office on top floor; 4.) 285 sf office on top floor; 5.) 3,310 sf office avail. in Dec. with fantastic build-out; T1 internet access. Elevator and parking. Call (310) 591-8789 or e-mail leasing@hp-cap.com
MONTH TO MONTH Lease. Furn/unfurn office suites on Sunset near Pacific Palisades Village DSL, Receptionist area w/ guest seating, Conference room w/ computer, monitor, TV and VCR. copy center w/ b/w & color laser printers, scanner & fax. Kitchen, cleaning service & alarm system. Call (310) 254-5496
OFFICES FOR SHORT to medium term sublet available with potential for long term with the right person in the heart of Pacific Palisades. Prefer media-oriented and creative ventures. Office furniture and many business tools included as well as potential use of world class recording studio. Available immediately. (310) 230-2050
VACATION RENTALS 3e
RV FOR RENT. 29’, fully self-contained travel trailer. Just steps to Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades. $1,600/mo. (310) 454-2515
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES 5
FROM THE LOCKER ROOM TO THE BOARD ROOM. These guys do it all. Premier business club. Strongest applicants accepted. (888) 376-5215 • www.dreamsbecomereality.net
ARE YOU SERIOUSLY LOOKING for a lucrative business that you can start TODAY? www.SuccessAndPrivilege.com
PERSONALS 6b
KATHY FORMERLY OF “A Cut Above” has relocated to “The Krimpers” at 857 Via de la Paz. For an appointment please call (310) 459-0023
BOOKKEEPING/ACCOUNTING 7b
NEED HELP WITH PAPER & BILLS? I can help you with bookkeeping, bank recs, filing, online banking,etc. Know Quicken, Quickbooks, MAC & PC. $30/hr. with a 2 hr minimum. Call Allison at (310) 428-5935
COMPUTER SERVICES 7c
COMPUTER SOLUTIONS & SUPPORT. HOME & BUSINESS–Windows Vista/XP–20 Yrs exp. frankelconsulting.com (310) 454-3886
MARIE’S MAC & PC OUTCALL. I CAN HELP YOU IN YOUR HOME OR OFFICE WITH: • Consultation on best hard/software for your needs • Setting up & configuring your system & applications • Teaching you how to use your Mac or PC • Upgrades: Mac OS & Windows • Internet: DSL, Wireless, E-mail, Remote Access • Key Applications: MS Office, Filemaker, Quicken • Contact Managers, Networking, File Sharing, Data backup • Palm, Visor, Digital Camera, Scanner, CD Burning • FRIENDLY & PROFESSIONAL — BEST RATES • (310) 262-5652
YOUR OWN TECH GURU * Set-up, Tutoring, Repair, Internet. Enjoy Problem-Free Computing. Satisfying Clients Since 1992. If I Can’t Help, NO CHARGE! COMPUTER WORKS! Alan Perla (310) 455-2000
THE DETECHTIVES™. PROFESSIONAL ON-SITE MAC SPECIALISTS. PATIENT, FRIENDLY AND AFFORDABLE. WE COVER ALL THINGS MAC • Consulting • Installation • Training and Repair for Beginners to Advanced Users • Data recovery • Networks • Wireless Internet & more • (310) 838-2254 • William Moorefield • www.thedetechtives.com
GARAGE, ESTATE SALES 7f
PLANNING A GARAGE SALE? an estate sale? a moving sale? a yard sale? Call it what you like. But call us to do it for you. We do the work. Start to finish • BARBARA DAWSON • Garage Sale Specialist • (310) 454-0359 • bmdawson@verizon.net • www.bmdawson.com • Furniture • Antiques • Collectibles • Junque • Reliable professionals • Local References
ORGANIZING SERVICES 7h
CLARES SECRETARIAL SERVICES. Providing all aspects of administrative/bookkeeping support in the home or office. (310) 430-6701
OVERLOADED WITH CLUTTER? All Areas Organized can restore order to any home, office or garage w/ effective organizing solutions. Including: paper management, desk overhauls, home office set-ups, clutter control, closet organization, filing & storage systems. Save time, energy, money & space while reducing stress! Professional, reliable & non-judgmental. Locally based in Pacific Palisades. Call (310) 562-7271 for consultation. Member National Association of Professional Organizers.
PERSONAL ASSISTANCE, ORGANIZATION & bookkeeping. Superior services provided with discretion & understanding. Pali resident, local references. Call Sarah, (310) 573-9263
HOME INVENTORY SERVICES 7j
HOME INVENTORY SERVICES for FIRE, THEFT, Earthquake, Wills/Estates, Rentals, Divorce. Incl video, photos & detailed reports. Pali resident. (310) 230-1437 www.homesweethomevideo.com
MISCELLANEOUS 7k
PART-TIME CEO FOR YOUR FAMILY BUSINESS. Take that vacation. Don’t lose a beat. Treating your business like my own. 28 years experience. CEO/C.F.O./Esquire. Call Steve M. Marks, (310) 889-6900
DAYCARE CENTERS 8
PALISADES LEARN AND PLAY. Creative & nurturing Pre-K program. Crafts, music & educational curriculum. Openings for summer & fall, F/T or P/T. (310) 459-0920
NANNIES/BABYSITTERS 8a
VIP NANNY AGENCY. “Providing very important people with the very best nanny.” (818) 907-1017, (310) 614-3646
WEST LA NANNIES • Caring • Committed • TRUSTED • (310) 584-4555
NANNY/LIGHT HOUSEKEEPER, 10 yrs exp. Loves kids, energetic, responsible, excellent refs. DMV, clean record. Bilingual Spanish/English. Avail. Mon.-Sun., F/T, live out, Call Mirna, (323) 937-2323
YOUNG ENTHUSIASTIC NANNY! Willing to drive, tutor, cook for & play with your kids. 5 days/wk. I am a USC graduate with a car and a flexible schedule. Available right away! Please call (310) 666-7276
HOUSEKEEPERS 9a
“PROFESSIONAL SERVICES.” We make your home our business. Star sparkling cleaning services. In the community over 15 years. The best in housekeeping for the best price. Good references. Call Bertha, (323) 754-6873 & cell (213) 393-1419
HOUSEKEEPING TEAM available M-F, full time, own transportation, references. Call Leslie & Gloria, (323) 233-9310 • (323) 839-8473
I’M MOVING & my wonderful housekeeper of 8 yrs is available Mon./Tues. mornings, Wed. afternoon & Fri. all day. Own reliable transport. Fluent Eng. Will housesit & manage your home. Call me at (310) 210 0631
HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday. Own transportation, CDL, references. Call Emma, (213) 383-7781
HOUSECLEANING LADY looking for 3-5 days/wk, English speaking, CDL, own transportation, 20 yrs experience, babysitting also available. Call Nila or Silvia, (323) 735-0935 or (323) 387-8882
MARTINEZ HOUSECLEANING SERVICE. Quality, Experience, Carpets, Free estimates. Good references. Ask for Dario or Cris, (323) 388-0218
HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE Monday-Friday. Own transport, CDL, insured, good references. Call Alejandra, (323) 757-8110 or (213) 220-2556
HOUSEKEEPER BABYSITTER available Mon. & Thurs., own transportation, local references, CDL. Call Marion, (323) 217-5010
HOUSEKEEPING TEAM available Monday-Friday, own transportation, CDL, insured, references. Call Delfia or Jacqueline, (213) 487-4694 or (213) 400-6810
HOUSEKEEPER/BABYSITTER, experienced, own transportation, CDL, insured, references. (310) 695-5154
HOUSEKEEPER/BABYSITTER with many years experience. Palisades references, own car, CDL, insured, available Tues., Wed. & Sat. Please call Lilian, (310) 390-9235 or leave a message.
GARDENING, LANDSCAPING 11
PALISADES GARDENING • Full Gardening Service • Sprinkler Install • Tree Trim • Sodding/Seeding • Sprays, non-toxic • FREE 10” Flats, Pansies, Snap, Impatiens. (310) 568-0989
WATERFALLS & POND CONSTRUCTION: Water gardening. Japanese Koi fish. Filtration pond service, repair & maintenance. Free estimates. Cell, (310) 498-5380, (310) 390-1276. www.TheKingKoi.com
www.ongoldenpondec.com. Under supervision of Aquaculture Engineer. We service Koi ponds and design filtration systems according to your needs. We considerably improve the aesthetics. (310) 922-5817
PRECISION LANDSCAPE SERVICES! Tired of mow, blow, let’s go! Specializing in fine maintenance • outdoor lighting • fertilizing • automatic timer repair & installation • artificial grass installation • hillside clean ups • new sod • sprinkler repair. Fair prices. (310) 696-6453
MOVING & HAULING 11b
HONEST MAN SERVICES. All jobs, big or small. Hauls it all. Homes and businesses. 14 foot van/dollies. 15th year Westside. Delivers to 48 states. (310) 285-8688
TREE SERVICE 11d
JOHNSON TREE SERVICE • TREE • SHRUB • STUMP REMOVAL SINCE 1924 • St. lic. #685533. (310) 454-8646, Brad
JUAN’S TREE SERVICE • Complete tree service • Ornamental trimming • Removals • Stump grinding • Hauling & clean-ups • All professional work. Free estimates. Juan Baltazar, owner, (818) 364-5428
MASSAGE THERAPY 12b
THAI MASSAGE in the Palisades. Experience an ancient form of healing with Phoebe Diftler. Compassionate, intuitive practitioner/Thai massage and yoga teacher. (310) 573-1499
WINDOW WASHING 13h
HAVING A PARTY? SELLING some real estate, or just want to do some spring cleaning? Get those WINDOWS SHINING by calling No Streak Window Cleaning where we offer fast friendly quality service you can count on! For a free estimate call Marcus, (323) 632-7207. Lic. #122194-49, Bonded
EXPERT WINDOW CLEANER • 21 yrs Westside. Clean & detailed. Free estimates. Can also clean screens, mirrors, skylights & scrape paint off glass. Brian, (310) 289-5279
PARTY ENTERTAINMENT 14e
SOUTHERN CRUX BARTENDING SERVICE • Andrew Funke Certified Bartender • Parties • Special Events • Etc. (310) 699-8190
PET SERVICES/PET SITTING 14g
HAPPY PET • Dog Walking • Park Outings • Socialization • Insured. Connie, (310) 230-3829
PET HEAVEN • TOTAL PET CARE • Training. Walking. Playgroups and hikes. 30 years Pali resident. References. Call (310) 454-0058 for a happy dog
FITNESS INSTRUCTION 15a
HAVE FUN! GET FIT! NORDIC WALKING CLASSES. Certified Advanced Nordic walking instructor, Palisades resident teaches private/group classes in the Palisades. Weekends. (310) 266-4651
SCHOOLS, INSTRUCTION 15d
NEED HELP WITH COLLEGE ADMISSIONS ESSAY? Recent graduate & professional writer available. Will help to perfect essay for admissions success. Call (310) 985-1607 or e-mail maxtaves@gmail.com
VIOLIN INSTRUCTION. Expert, friendly guidance at all levels by highly qualified teacher. Home or studio. Teaching in Palisades 20 years. Laurence Homolka, (310) 459-0500
TUTORS 15e
INDIVIDUALIZED INSTRUCTION. EXPERIENCED TUTOR 20+ YEARS. Children & adults, 20+ yrs teaching/tutoring exper. MATH, GRAMMAR, WRITING & STUDY SKILLS. Formerly special ed teacher. Call (310) 313-2530
SCIENCE & MATH TUTOR. All levels (elementary to college). Ph.D., MIT graduate, 30 years experience. Ed Kanegsberg, (310) 459-3614
MS. SCIENCE TUTOR. Ph.D., Experienced, Palisades resident. Tutor All Ages In Your Home. Marie, (310) 888-7145
EXPERIENCED SPANISH TUTOR • All grades, levels • Grammar • Conversational • SAT • Children, adults • 7 yrs exper. • Great refs. Noelle, (310) 273-3593
READING SPECIALIST • Master of Education—Reading and Learning Disabilities • Special Education Teaching Certificate: K-12 • Regular Education Teaching Certificate: K-9 • Elementary Education Teaching experience: 12 yrs • Services provided for special & regular education students of all levels • Academic areas taught include reading (phonics and reading comprehension) writing and spelling • Private tutoring includes accessing the student’s needs, developing an individualized education program and implementation of that program. Palisades resident. Call Brandi, (310) 230-9890
PROFESSIONAL TUTOR. Stanford graduate (BA and MA, Class of 2000). Available for all subjects and test prep (SAT & ISEE). In-home tutoring at great rates. Call Jonathan, (310) 560-9134
CLEARLY MATH TUTORING. Specializing in math! Elementary thru college level. Test prep, algebra, trig, geom, calculus. Fun, caring, creative, individualized tutoring. Math anxiety. Call Jamie, (310) 459-4722
CONCRETE, MASONRY, POOLS 16c
MASONRY, CONCRETE & POOL CONTRACTOR. 36 YEARS IN PACIFIC PALISADES. Custom masonry & concrete, stamped, driveways, pools, decks, patios, foundations, fireplace, drainage control, custom stone, block & brick, tile. Excellent local references. Lic. #309844. Bonded/insured/ workmen’s comp. Family owned & operated. MIKE HORUSICKY CONSTRUCTION, INC. (310) 454-4385 • www.horusicky.com
CONSTRUCTION 16d
ALAN PINE GENERAL CONTRACTOR • New homes • Remodeling • Additions • Kitchen & Bath Planning/Architectural services • Licensed & Insured #469435. (800) 800-0744 or (818) 203-8881
ELECTRICAL 16h
PALISADES ELECTRIC. ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR. All phases of electrical, new construction to service work. (310) 454-6994. Lic. #468437 Insured Professional Service
ELECTRICIAN HANDYMAN. Local Service Only. Lic. #775688. Please Call (310) 454-6849 or (818) 317-8286
FENCES 16j
THE FENCE MAN • 14 years quality workmanship. Wood fences • Decks • Gates • Chainlink & overhang • Lic.#663238, bonded. (818) 706-1996
INDEPENDENT SERVICE CARLOS FENCE: Wood & Picket Fences • Chain Link • Iron & Gates • Deck & Patio Covers. Ask for Carlos, (310) 677-2737 or fax (310) 677-8650. Non-lic.
FLOOR CARE 16m
GREG GARBER’S HARDWOOD FLOORS SINCE 1979. Install, refinish. Fully insured. Local references (310) 230-4597 Lic. #455608
CENTURY HARDWOOD FLOOR. Refinishing, Installation, Repairs. Lic. #813778. www.centurycustomhardwoodfloorinc.com • centuryfloor@sbcglobal.net • (800) 608-6007 • (310) 276-6407
HART HARDWOOD FLOORING. Best pricing. Sr. discounts, quality workmanship. Bamboo, maple, oak and laminate. Installation & refinishing. Call for free quote. Lic. #763767. Ron, (310) 308-4988
GOLDEN HARDWOOD FLOORS. Professional Installation and refinishing. National Wood Flooring Association member. License #732286. Plenty of local references. (877) 622-2200 • www.goldenhardwoodfloors.com
HANDYMAN 16o
HANDYMAN • HOOSHMAN • Most known name in the Palisades. Since 1975. Member Chamber of Commerce. Lic. #560299. Call for your free est. Local refs available. Hooshman, (310) 459-8009, 24 Hr.
LABOR OF LOVE carpentry, plumbing, tile, plaster, doors, windows, fencing & those special challenges. Work guaranteed. License #B767950. Ken at (310) 487-6464
LOCAL RESIDENT, LOCAL CLIENTELE. Make a list, call me. I specialize in repairing, replacing all those little nuisances. Not licensed; fully insured; always on time. 1 Call, 1 Guy: Marty, (310) 459-2692
HANDYMAN • PAINTING • DRYWALL REPAIRS • Water damage repair • Small carpentry work • Tile • 17 years EXCELLENT service & experience. FREE ESTIMATES! Call (310) 502-1168. Not lic.
HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 16p
SANTA MONICA HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING. INSTALLATION: New and old service and repairs. Lic. #324942. (310) 393-5686
PAINTING, PAPERHANGING 16r
PAUL HORST • Interior & Exterior PAINTING • 53 YEARS OF SERVICE • Our reputation is your safeguard. License No. 186825 • (310) 454-4630 • Bonded & Insured
TILO MARTIN PAINTING. For A Professional Job Call (310) 230-0202. Ref’s. Lic. #715099
SQUIRE PAINTING CO. Interior and Exterior. License #405049. 25 years. Local Service. (310) 454-8266. www.squirepainting.com
SPIROS PAINTING, INTERIOR/EXTERIOR. Painting on the Westside since 1980. Lic. #821009. Fax and phone: (310) 826-6097. NO JOB is too small or too big for Spiro the Greek
ZARKO PRTINA PAINTING. Interior/Exterior. 35 years in service. License #637882. Call (310) 454-6604
PAINTING • RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • INTERIOR • EXTERIOR • PLASTERING • STUCCO REPAIR • DRYWALL • WATER DRAINAGE • WALL PAPER REMOVAL • POWER SANDING • STAIN & TERMITE DAMAGE REPAIR • 20 YEARS EXPERIENCE • REFERENCE ON REQUEST • FREE ESTIMATE. Call Armon, Cell: (310) 562-9435, (310) 556-0867. Lic. #291753
PLUMBING 16t
BOTHAM PLUMBING AND HEATING. Lic. #839118. (310) 827-4040
JLK PLUMBING. Re-pipe and sewer specialist & all plumbing repairs. Mention this ad & receive 10% off. Lic. #722414. Call (310) 678-6634
WHITTLE’S PLUMBING. Drain & sewer problems • Garbage disposal & H2O heaters • Copper repiping & gas lines • Fixtures, remodels • Gen. Construction • Free est. Lic. #668743. (310) 429-7187
REMODELING 16v
KANAN CONSTRUCTION • References. BONDED • INSURED • St. Lic. #554451 • DANIEL J. KANAN, CONTRACTOR, (310) 451-3540 / (800) 585-4-DAN
LABOR OF LOVE HOME REPAIR & REMODEL. Kitchens, bathrooms, cabinetry, tile, doors, windows, decks, etc. Work guar. Ken Bass, General Contractor. Lic. #B767950. (310) 487-6464
COMPLETE CUSTOM CONSTRUCTION • New homes • Kitchen+Bath remodeling • Additions. Quality work at reasonable rates guaranteed. Large & small projects welcomed. Lic. #751137. Call Michael Hoff Construction today, (310) 230-2930
HELP WANTED 17
DRIVERS: 150K PER YEAR-TEAMS! Earn more plus GREAT Benefits! Western Regional Solo and Team Runs. Werner Enterprises, (800) 346-2818 x123
RECEPTIONIST-ORTHODONTIC OFFICE. Exclusive practice in Pacific Palisades. Exceptional opportunity—Salary DOE. Please call (310) 454-0317
ASSIST IN START-UP of new biz in Pacific Palisades. $10-$12/hr DOE. Approx. 25 hr/wk. Permanent or temporary. Potential for higher earnings. Basic computer skills req. (310) 459-7675
HAIR SALON IN Pacific Palisades has rental space available. Hairstylist, manicurist. Call (310) 600-7362
NANNY/HOUSEKEEPER needed for newborn & 5-year-old. Legal, clean DMV, fun, energetic & loving. Speak English. F/T, M-F. $13-$14/hr. Call Melissa, (310) 753-2842.
AUTOS 18b
1988 MERCEDES 560 SL CONVERTIBLE. Classic beauty, 108K, silver, very clean & well maintained, local owner. $12,500 obo. (310) 454-0708
2005 VW NEW BEETLE Convertible, GLS, beige, excellent condition, only 14,000 miles, 4 year warranty. $18,000 obo. Call (310) 890-0799 pp
GARAGE, ESTATE SALES 18d
GARAGE SALE! Sunday, June 3rd, 9 a.m.-2:00 p.m. 470 Wynola St. No Early Birds
WANTED TO BUY 19
WANTED: Old tube guitar amplifiers, working or not. ‘50s, ‘60s, etc. Tommy, (310) 895-5057 • profeti2001@yahoo.com
Pali Vaulters Raise the Bar
Greenberg, Liberatore Win City Titles
It is no coincidence that Palisades High seniors Brian Greenberg and Angela Liberatore both won the pole vault at last Thursday’s City Track & Field Championships. After all, they share the same private coach–former state record holder Anthony Curran. And they both gravitated to the pole vault from other sports. After qualifying at 10-3 along with five others, Greenberg cleared 14 feet in the finals at Birmingham High in Lake Balboa to win his second consecutive City title. Greenberg, who studied martial arts prior to trying the pole vault, separated himself from the pack after the bar was raised from 12-9 and vaulters from Marshall, Verdugo Hills and Chatsworth all failed on their attempts above that height. Having vaulted 15 feet at an invitational this season, Greenberg not only sought to repeat as City champion, he also wanted to break the section record of 16-7 set in 1969 by Los Angeles High’s Bob Pullard. Although he didn’t quite reach that goal, he did better his winning mark of 12-6 last spring. Liberatore began the girls’ varsity, the last field event of the evening, among four athletes to clear 8-0 at the prelims. Staying relaxed physically and mentally despite the long wait, she easily cleared nine feet on her first attempt. She made 10-6 on her first try to take the lead and was the only girl to clear 11-0, which she did on the second of her three attempts. “Seeing Bryan win it right before definitely pumped me up,” said Liberatore, who vaulted a personal-best 11-6 in an all-comers meet at Cal State Los Angeles in December. “I trained all year, so it was time to do what I know how to do.” Unable to train on campus, Liberatore practices vaulting three or four days a week, mixed with sprint and weight training. She started competing in the gymnastics at the age of 10 and, not surprisingly, the vault was her favorite apparatus. Liberatore attended Paul Revere Middle School, visited Curran’s camp before ninth grade and made pole vaulting her primary sport after her sophomore year at Pali. She plans to walk on at UC Berkeley next spring. Tenth-grader Camille Liberatore, Angela’s younger sister, also qualified for last Thursday’s finals but could not advance out of the first round. Qualifying for the City finals in the high jump was Tuekeha Huntley, who cleared 5′ 0″ and finished fourth.
‘The Tempest’ Opens Geer Summer Season
Ellen Geer and William Dennis Hunt share the role of Prospero in William Shakespeare’s ‘The Tempest,’ which opens the season at the Will Geer Theatricum on Sunday, June 3. It plays every Sunday afternoon (matinees at 4 p.m. in June and July, and at 3 p.m. in August and September) through September 30 in the Theatricum’s 299-seat outdoor amphitheater, 1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd. ‘The Tempest’ is one of the richest treasures found in drama. For 12 years Prospero, sorcerer and former Duke of Milan, has remained stranded on a remote island with his young daughter, Miranda, exiled by his treacherous brother, Antonio. Now Prospero sees his chance for revenge and conjures a storm that shipwrecks his brother, along with the King of Naples. The usurped wizard draws his enemies to his enchanted island to exact revenge yet, ultimately, finds peace and the ability to forgive. ‘The Tempest’ is Shakespeare’s last known play; some believe that Prospero’s final speeches signify Shakespeare’s personal farewell to theater from the stage. Hailed as a stunning climax to the career of England’s favorite dramatist, ‘The Tempest’ is a play praising the glories of reconciliation and forgiveness, a reminder that it is never too late to reform broken relationships. Contact: (310) 455-3723 or visit online at www.theatricum.com.
St. Matthew’s to Debut New Chamber Suite
The St. Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra will present the world premiere of a new suite for chamber orchestra by Los Angeles composer Dwayne Milburn on Friday, June 8 at 8 p.m. at St. Matthew?s Church, 1031 Bienveneda Ave. The suite was commissioned by the St. Matthew’s Music Guild, one of more than 30 commissions it has issued over the past two decades. Also featured on the program will be Debussy’s ?Sacred and Profane Dances,? with harpist Amy Shulman; Benjamin Britten’s ?Rejoice in the Lamb? and Halsey Stevens’ ?Magnificat.? The St. Matthew’s choir will be featured in the works by Britten and Stevens. Milburn is a graduate of UCLA and the Cleveland Institute of Music. He has served as director of cadet music at West Point and deputy commander of the U.S. Army Band “Pershing’s Own” as well as the U.S. Army European band and chorus. His music has been heard throughout the U.S. including in performances by the Cleveland Orchestra, the University of Texas Wind Ensemble, and the Indiana University Wind Ensemble. He is currently composer-in-residence at St. Matthew’s Parish. Admission to the concert is $25 or Music Guild season pass. Contact: (310) 573-7787, ext. 2 or www.stmatthews.com/musicguild.
AIA Tour Spotlights Three Palisades Homes
Residents are invited to rediscover why Los Angeles gets top billing when it comes to innovative residential architecture. A tour this Sunday, June 3, sponsored by the American Institute of Architects, Los Angeles chapter, focuses almost entirely on Pacific Palisades, opening the doors to four contemporary homes designed by leading architects. The self-guided tour takes place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $75 (65 for AIA members). ‘This year we are offering two ocean-view and two canyon-view homes,’ says Carlo Caccavale, associate director of AIA/Los Angeles and organizer of the tour. ‘It’s a portrait of the Palisades in the sense that living in the woods or by the ocean are both lifestyle options.’ What all four houses share, according to Caccavale, is a discreet, non-showy nature, despite being cutting-edge in their design. ‘They’ve been developed with a strong sense toward blending with the environment,’ he says. ‘They’re not self-serving.’ At the ‘Hollander 2 Residence’ (NBDarchitects), tucked in Mandeville Canyon, the architects restored order to a ‘once confused’ 1950s-era ranch house and transformed it into a work of art. The home was reinvented as a modern, urbane dwelling replete with a 2,500-sq.-ft. art loggia to showcase the owners’ extensive art collection. At the ‘Callas Shortridge Canyon’ house, the main attraction is the addition of a master wing and pool to a 1995 Palisades post and beam. The architects Barbara Callas and Steven Shortridge have introduced a Bauhaus-influenced tower/bridge, tempered in metal and glass, a structural element that embodies a link between 20th- and 21st -century American modernism. At the TR +2 StudioHouse (Cigolle X Coleman Architects), the project is all about adaptation to a dramatic, ocean-facing site. The design of the house intensifies the sense of the hillside with elements set in, on and above the slope, framing views of the expansive sky. The climate is embraced with sustainable design that maximizes indoor/outdoor living. The ‘Descending Courtyard House’ (Ric Abramson AIA Architect with David Lawrence Gray Architects) was conceived as two complementary buildings. The first, a steel-and-glass box, elevates indoor activities above the canyon, capturing the views and allowing the house to cool naturally using ocean breezes. The second building, an east-facing wood-and-plaster rectangular structure, interlocks with the garage and guest room along the street to house the more private spaces. Ticket information: (213) 639-0777 or visit www.aialosangeles.org.
All the World Is Scott Anderson’s Stage
Whether it’s skiing to the South Pole, driving a 1909 Model T from Beijing to Paris, or writing, directing and starring in a modern-day film adaptation of Shakespeare’s ‘Richard III,’ to do or not to do is never the question for Scott Anderson. In fact, he’s pursued all these activities–and more–while maintaining his full-time work as a top veterinary surgeon in Los Angeles. ‘I figure you only go around once, so why not take the opportunities life presents,’ Anderson says matter-of-factly. His modest, low-key manner belies an incredibly bold, seize-the-moment spirit. He and his wife, Dr. Lisa Brevik Anderson, also a veterinarian, live with their two sons Paul, 8, and Erik, 5, in the Huntington Palisades. ‘I think it’s about taking that first step. It’s easy to convince yourself not to try something.’ As a longtime fan of Shakespeare, and of ‘Richard III’ in particular, Anderson originally wrote his screenplay three years ago with no intention other than enjoying the creative exercise. He saw the play as well suited to an alternative version of present-day L.A., where rival studios, instead of rival branches of the royal family, drive the plot. He even uses the Bard’s original dialogue and archaisms. ‘Part of Shakespeare’s brilliance is that his characters and dialogue are timeless’endlessly adaptable to each passing century,’ Anderson says. Then the idea occurred to follow the low-budget route and direct and produce the film himself. ‘Why not?’ he remembers thinking. ‘When will I ever have another chance?’ Anderson reached the same conclusion when pondering whom to cast in the lead. ‘Having never directed before, I was unsure I would be able to direct someone to create Richard as I’d envisioned the character,’ he explains about taking on the role of Richard himself. Anderson hired a coach and took private acting lessons for a year. One of the triumphs of the film, made under the SAG Ultra-Low Budget parameters and financed by Anderson and a few associates, was the talent it attracted, including David Carradine, Sally Kirkland and Maria Conchita Alonso. The film was shot in three weeks, the only time Anderson took off as head of the Animal Surgical and Emergency Center, a 24-hour clinic, on Sepulveda Blvd. ‘I don’t think you can really grasp just how much time is involved wearing all those hats until you do it,’ says Anderson about his first foray into the film world. The film, titled ‘Shakespeare’s Richard III,’ is off to a good start, winning top honors as first feature at the Houston International Film Festival in April. Anderson is optimistic about acceptance at other film festivals and finding a distributor. In the meantime, his focus has dramatically shifted to another pursuit: driving his 1909 Model T Ford in the centennial re-run of the Peking to Paris Motor Rally. The competition, first staged in 1907, began in Beijing last Sunday and concludes with a parade and celebration in Paris on June 30. Nearly 140 antique and classic cars will travel a prescribed route through Mongolia, across Siberia, up to Moscow and St. Petersburg, then down through the Baltic States before heading to Paris. ‘The car has been refurbished and repaired and we hope will survive the 8,000 miles,’ said Anderson before departing from Los Angeles with his co-driver, fellow veterinarian Dr. Rob Fisher. ‘Otherwise, we’ll be hitchhiking from Mongolia.’ This isn’t Anderson’s first extreme adventure. In 2003, he slogged on cross-country skis in minus 40-degree temperatures for seven days before reaching the South Pole with a small group of adventurers. In his never-a-dull-moment universe, he’s planning another ski trip, this time to the North Pole in 2008. Anderson’s wife is a kindred spirit when it comes to travel and adventure, and he has little doubt his sons will follow in the same footsteps. ‘My family is wonderfully supportive,’ he says. A native of Virginia and graduate of Virginia Tech, Anderson moved to Los Angeles in 1986. His father worked with the overseas branch of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, so much of his youth was spent in foreign countries, first Liberia and later Ecuador. ‘I think this laid the groundwork,’ he says. ‘It put me in the mind set of experiencing the world and seeing what’s out there.’
Calendar for the Week of May 31
THURSDAY, MAY 31 Susan Straight discusses ‘A Million Nightingales,’ 7:30 p.m. at Village Books on Swarthmore. Haunting and beautifully written, this novel of 19th-century Louisiana is the tale of a slave girl’s journey’emotional and physical’from captivity to freedom. FRIDAY, JUNE 1 Kids Pajama Storytime, featuring Jody Roberts and Lisa Gelber reading ‘P Is for Peanut: A Photographic ABC,’ 6:30 p.m., Village Books on Swarthmore. This delightful volume uses 26 photographs from the Getty Museum’s collection to show children the alphabet in action, and to teach them some interesting ways to look at art. (See story, page TK.) Paul Revere Charter Middle School students present their spring musical, ‘Annie, Jr.,’ today and tomorrow at 7 p.m. in the school auditorium on Allenford. Tickets for the family-oriented show are $5 at the door. The cast consists of 35 seventh- and eighth-graders who participate in an elective, year-long drama class taught by Joshua Roig. The show’s co-producer is Palisadian Nancy Cassaro-Fracchiolla, and choreography is by Palisadian Lindsay Kerr. ‘Full Moon Hike: Galileo and the King Planets’ is the theme of a guided hike in Temescal Canyon, 7 p.m. Hike is free; parking is $5. Meet in the front parking lot. SATURDAY, JUNE 2 Professor Ronald White discusses his book ‘The Eloquent President: A Portrait of Lincoln Through His Words,’ 2 p.m. at the Palisades Branch Library, 861 Alma Real. Former Pacific Palisades resident Beckie Weinheimer will talk about her new novel, ‘Converting Kate,’ 3 p.m. at Village Books on Swarthmore. SUNDAY, JUNE 3 Art Show on the Village Green, 10 a.m., hosted by the Pacific Palisades Art Association and Friends. MONDAY, JUNE 4 Philip Giroux will discuss his book ‘Landscaping for Dummies’ at the Palisades Garden Club meeting, 7:30 p.m. in the Woman’s Club, 901 Haverford. The public is invited. TUESDAY, JUNE 5 Storytime for children ages 3 and up, 4 p.m., Palisades Branch Library, 861 Alma Real. Tuesday Night Hikes with the Temescal Canyon Association will take a steep climb up from Paseo Miramar, but the payoff is a review of the city at dusk from Parker Mesa Overlook. Meet at 6 p.m. in the Temescal Gateway parking lot for carpooling. Please, no dogs. Expect to be back between 8 and 9 p.m. Contact: temcanyon.org. Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy meeting, 7:30 p.m. in Stewart Hall in Temescal Gateway Park. Public testimony begins at 8 p.m., followed by Conservancy and Advisory Committee deliberations. THURSDAY, JUNE 7 Local activist Bob Jeffers will update plans for renovating and upgrading the football field and running track at Palisades High School this summer, 7:15 a.m., Palisades Rotary Club breakfast meeting at Gladstone’s. Information: (310) 482-2006. Ian Gurvitz discusses ‘Hello, Lied the Agent,’ an funny insider’s look at what being a television writer is really all about, 7:30 p.m., Village Books on Swarthmore.
Spark, Spark, Get it Going!
Photo by Rich Schmitt, Staff Photographer
In every community there are the unsung heroes who make ‘it’ happen. Unasked, they take responsibility to fix an injustice, right a wrong, help the town solve a problem or start an innovative program. The Pacific Palisades Community Council recognizes those citizens with its yearly Golden Sparkplug Award. Last Thursday evening at the Citizen of the Year dinner, Lisa Taylor and John Grosse were honored. Taylor received her award for battling graffiti in the stairwell between the Methodist Church parking lot and Haverford Avenue. ‘She saw a problem and didn’t wait for the Community Council or anyone else to get involved,’ said council chairman Steve Boyers. ‘She decided to act on it promptly and bought a gallon of paint at Norris Hardware. The Sparkplug is designed for this type of initiative and effort.’ In accepting the award, Taylor told the audience that she had moved with her family to the Palisades in August and was upset when she walked her seven-year-old up the steps to Palisades Elementary School and saw graffiti and trash. When her son remarked, ‘The robbers came,’ she knew she had to do something because, as she explained, ‘This is our daily commute.’ She also wanted her children to know that one person can make a difference. ‘I went about taking care of the stairwell and keeping it clean,’ Taylor said. ‘It became a daily routine because there are a lot of people who go up and down the stairwell. It’s their commute as well.’ She looked into a neighborhood beautification grant through Councilman Bill Rosendahl’s office, but learned it required a matching grant. ‘Maybe some day I’ll have money for matching grants,’ she said. Undeterred, Taylor visited Marilyn Crawford in the Chamber of Commerce office, which gives out gloves, a mask, and a certificate for paint at Norris to ‘grafffiti-busters.’ Crawford also told her that the police need photos of the graffiti, not only to see if it’s gang activity, but to document repeat offenders. ‘I love the small-town charm here and I’m proud to call Pacific Palisades home,’ said Taylor, who moved here from Scottsdale, Arizona. ‘I’m tickled with the honor and I want to be able to tell my son, ‘Maybe someday we’ll catch the robbers.” John Grosse was recognized for his efforts to improve traffic flow and increase safety in the streets around Marquez Elementary School. ‘He saw that the unbearable traffic in that area was dangerous and intolerable for the neighborhood and community,’ Boyer said. ‘He put together a meeting with residents and city officials, and the result was a crosswalk, a stop sign and several left-hand-turn-only signs. If anyone can do it, he will.’ In his acceptance remarks, Grosse told about the traffic issues he discovered when he moved back to the Palisades in 2003. ‘I found I could hardly park my car on the street on school days,’ he said. ‘I got people together who were in the same situation and formed a committee.’ After the early successes, he continues to meet with the Marquez principal to work on solutions for the threefold problem of inadequate parking for school employees (which causes street parking problems), intense traffic at drop-off and pick-up times, and lack of traffic control. ‘Short term we’ve done well,’ Grosse said, ‘but long term, we’ve got to get the city and LAUSD to support solutions.’ He vowed ‘I’ll stay with it until it’s done. ‘
