The visual beauty of ‘The Lion King’ musical production is like a living work of art. From the opening number, when the stage fills with animals (including an elephant that comes down the aisle), to the stampeding wildebeests set across a blood-red set to boulders on the stage that actually morph into humans, there will probably never be another Broadway show as artful as this production. When Julie Taymor was in the early stages of costume design, one of her first tasks was to decide how to portray the hundreds of animals that populate the story. She made the decision not to hide the human performers behind masks or in animal suits. She went to African art for her inspiration. Swords or sticks could simulate legs; claw- like nails could represent a lion’s paws. Elaborate corsets provided ways to depict fur, feathers and skin. Masks were attached to harnesses, which allow them to move backward and forward. Her vision resulted in an animal that allows the personality of the actor to blend with the animal, resulting in infinitely more complex characters. It was fascinating watching the hyenas’ mouths move (they’re worked by the actors’ hands) as well as focusing on the actors mouths at the same time’it was almost as if it were a double force emanating from that animal. In the case of Damian Baldet (Timon), who is painted green and controls the meerkat, there was an interesting moment when the character walked off stage and the man’s shadow followed the puppet’s shadow, as if the man were the conscience of the animal. Taymor has been praised for her brilliance in taking an animated film and creating a work of art, and it is well deserved. All of the animals are elegant, from the stately giraffes to the ostriches that Nala and Simba ride. With over 200 puppets in the show (rod, shadow and full-sized puppets) and 12 bird kites, representing 25 kinds of animals, birds, fish and insects, the show is full of splendor and wonderment. Although the animals are remarkable, the image used to represent the plants and land is equally creative. The swaying of the ‘savanna’ grass is etched in my mind. Actors wearing ‘grass’ headpieces cast an eerie but calming touch as the lighting transformed the scene into the shadows. Another remarkable vision presented itself when actors dressed as plants transformed themselves into exotic orchid-like plants to set the backdrop for one of the scenes in the jungle. The warm clear voice of Gugwana Dlamini (Rafiki) opens the show, calling the animals to Pride Rock. Dlamini is an actress who fills the stage with presence and a sense of fun. Since she’s the first ‘animal’ the audience meets, she sets the tone for the evening. Kevin Gray drips with sarcasm as Scar, and his interaction with Timothy McGeever (Zazu) is a well balanced tit-for-tat. Both performers are excellent. One of the most amazing performances opening night came from the young Simba (Jordan D. Bratton). Not only does this slight child have great stage presence, but he has the perfect energy as the young cub. His singing is impressive. As a bonus, the chemistry between Simba and Nala (Diamond Curvy) was child-like: sweet and real. The two made the first act fly by. Geno Segers (Mufasa) was stiff in the role of the lion until he sang, and then it became apparent why he was cast. His voice filled the historic Pantages Theater from the elaborate designs on the ceiling to the very depths of the orchestra pit. Segers didn’t study acting until after graduating from college and playing sports, including the World Rugby League Cup. Although Wallace Smith (older Simba) is appropriately limber and once again has a great singing voice, his speaking voice seems to be done with his teeth clenched, which becomes annoying. There are 143 people directly involved with the daily production of the show–53 of them are cast members. The ensemble is to be commended for the ease by which they accomplish constant costume changes, beautifully executed choreographed numbers, and the ease with which they accomplished it. Many audience members took young children to this play with the idea that it was a rehash of the much-beloved animated movie. It’s a mistake. The musical is approximately an hour longer than the movie and I noticed several sleeping children. Other young children found other means of entertaining themselves during the show, which was annoying to audience members. At the risk of insulting a theater icon, the play could stand some trimming, especially the second act. Over all, though, it doesn’t lessen the magnificence of Julie Taymor’s vision. If you haven’t seen ‘The Lion King,’ which won 1998 Tony Awards for best musical, director, choreography, scenic design, costume design and lighting design, do it. The show runs Tuesday through Friday evenings at 8 p.m., Saturdays at 2 and 8 p.m. and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. There are special 2 p.m. matinees on December 6, 21 and 28. Tickets $15 – $87 are available at Ticketmaster (213) 365-3500 or (714) 740-7878.
Upcoming Musical Events
St. Matthew’s Orchestra and Choir to Highlight Vivaldi St. Matthew’s Chamber Orchestra, under the direction of music director and conductor Tom Neenan, will perform an all-Vivaldi program on Friday, December 8, at 8 p.m. at St. Matthew’s Church, 19031 Bienveneda Ave. The concert will feature the ‘Gloria’ and a recently discovered ‘Magnificat’ by Vivaldi, who served as maestro de capella at the famous Ospedale della Pieta in Venice at the beginning of the 18th century. The Choir of St. Matthew’s Parish and vocal soloists will be featured. Also on the program will be two instrumental concertos’the Concerto in D Major, with mandolin virtuoso Evan Marshall, and the Concerto in A Minor for Two Violins. The orchestra’s concertmaster Yi-Huan Zhao and associate concertmaster Kevin Kumar will be featured soloists. Tickets for the concert are $25 at the door. Contact: 573-7787, ext. 2 or www.Stmatthews.com/musicguild. Mount St. Mary’s to Present Christmas Music Mount St. Mary’s chorus and St. Monica High School chamber singers, under the direction of Ed Archer, will present ‘Night of Silence’ on Friday, December 8, at 8 p.m. in Carondelet Center Chapel, 12001 Chalon Rd in Brentwood. The program features music from medieval times to the present and from many parts of the world, telling the story of the birth of Christ. Composers include Zoltan Kodaly, Paul Creston, Cesar Frank, Francis Poulenc, Marty Haugen and more. A $10 donation is suggested; $5 for students and seniors. Palisades Symphony to Perform Bach’s ‘Christmas Oratorio’ Palisades Symphony and Brentwood Palisades Chorale, conducted by Joel Lish, will perform Bach’s ‘Christmas Oratorio,’ Parts I-IV, on Sunday, December 3, 7:30 p.m. at the United Methodist Church, 801 Via de la Paz. Bach’s work is not actually an oratorio at all, but rather a series of cantatas originally intended to be performed on six separate days. The work seems to have been written or perhaps assembled, around the end of 1734, making use of considerable material from some of Bach’s earlier secular cantatas. The first three parts were written to be performed on the first three days of Christmas. The fourth part was intended for New Year’s Day, the fifth for the first Sunday of the New Year, and the last part for Epiphany. It is not known whether Bach put together this work for some special occasion or whether he ever performed it on one or two evenings, as is common today. The soloists are Lori Stinson, soprano, Minna Edel Halloway, mezzo, Gabriel Silva, tenor, and Eli Villanueva, bass. Susan Rosenstein will prepare the Brentwood Palisades Chorale. The performance is free of charge. Contact: 454-8040.
William Grieb, Past Citizen of the Year, Succumbs
William Edward Grieb Jr., longtime resident of Pacific Palisades and owner of the Palisades Letter Shop, passed away on November 15, after a long and heroic battle with lung cancer. He was 68. Bill was born in Washington, D.C., on May 21, 1938. He earned a B.S. in chemistry and mathematics from Roanoke College, a master’s degree in chemistry from George Washington University, and an MBA from American University. Bill began working at the National Institutes of Health in cancer research and genetics, broadening into grants management and computers. He was brought to California to work for System Development Corporation in scientific information handling. An entrepreneur at heart, Bill began his own consulting firm, System Interface Consultants, to interface between scientists and computer programmers. He developed one of the first personal computers, System 2100, and purchased and ran an aerospace machine shop, New Northern Engineering, as well as his latest endeavor, the Palisades Letter Shop. During his life Bill wrote several books, including ‘Small Business Computers Today and Tomorrow,’ ‘Your Option’ with Keith Kretschmer, a fun book, ‘Care and Feeding of Pet Executives,’ and his final book, ‘A Brief History of Life–From the Primordial Ooze to Genetically Engineered Species,’ which will be published in 2007. He relished the opportunity to expand and diversify his wealth of knowledge. This intellectual curiosity led him down many paths. Throughout his life Bill was an active member of Theatre Palisades, the Palisades Library Association, the Gemological Society, Southern California Killi Fish Group, the Palisades Americanism Parade Association, and AAAS, among many, many others. Bill was not only a rigorous intellectual, he was also quite a gregarious personality. Always at the center of any social gathering, Bill was known for regaling his friends and colleagues with his ‘shaggy-dog’ stories. His love of hosting a good party was so legendary that it earned him the honor of ‘Citizen of the Year’ from the Palisadian-Post for organizing a year-long celebration of the 75th anniversary of Pacific Palisades. His salons brought together diverse artists and thinkers. The Pierson Playhouse stage served as a forum for him to share his love of life. Bill not only performed in many musicals and plays, but also wrote and performed his own one-man show, ‘The Apostles,’ in churches across the country. A memorial service was held yesterday, November 22, at the Community United Methodist Church in Pacific Palisades. Contributions in his memory can be made to the USC Gamma Knife Unit, Habitat for Humanity, or the Heifer Project. Bill Grieb is survived by his wife, Sylvia; his son William III (wife Stacy) of West Virginia; his son Robert (wife Brenda) and granddaughter Carly of Maryland; his daughter Sybil Grieb; his mother Virginia Grieb and sister Elizabeth Yancey of Florida, and his brother Robert of Pennsylvania. CAPTION: Bill Grieb, wearing the top hat he made familiar while masterminding the town’s year-long 75th Anniversary celebration in 1997, is congratulated by Palisadian-Post Publisher Roberta Donohue after receiving his Citizen of the Year award in 1998.
CLASSIFIED ADS FROM THE NOVEMBER 23, 2006 ISSUE OF THE PALISADIAN-POST
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HOMES FOR SALE 1
LAS VEGAS HOMES, CONDOS. Interested in a 2nd home or relocation? Listings emailed free. Call Rob or Janet. Realty One Group. (702) 882-1454. www.RobSellsVegas.com 180? OCEAN VIEW. 3 bdrm, 2 ba, Mfg home offers the beach-seeking buyer a private oasis across from the beach at sought-after Tahitian Terrace. 1,440 sq. ft. Rent control, pets ok. $450K. SC Realty, Franklin, (818) 577-7116HOMES WANTED 1b
WE BUY HOUSES, APTS & LAND! ALL CASH, AS-IS, FAST CLOSE. David, (310) 308-7887UNFURNISHED HOMES 2a
PRIVATE GARDEN STUDIO guesthouse. $1,600/mo. Laundry, kitchenette, large closets, utils, Wifi paid. References and credit checked. Flex lease. No pets. (310) 874-3233 SANTA MONICA CANYON HOUSE. 1 block from beach, 3 bdrm, 3 ba, balcony w vu of cyn, approx 2,600 sq. ft., fireplaces, patio, 2 car garage, w/d, fridge stv, d/w. Quiet st., Palisades Sch Dst. $3,750/mo. Utils incl’d. 1 yr lse. (310) 990-3372 PALISADES 1 BEDROOM, upper remodeled, carpet, stove, refrigerator, covered parking, laundry, new paint, Non-smoker, No pets, one year lease, quiet and clean. $1,280/mo. (310) 477-6767 $3,995/MO. CHARMING 3 BR, 2 BA in lovely Cheviot Hills w/ beautiful wood floors, 2 FP, remodeled kitchen w/ granite countertops, tile floors and new stove. Freshly painted and ready to move in. Please call Dolly Niemann at Prudential CA Realty, (310) 230-3706 BRENTWOOD, NEAR COUNTRY CLUB. $1,650/mo. “Sophisticated, charming” decorator’s 1 bd upper in vintage bldg nr country club. Woodburning fplc, new wool Berber crpt, shutters, micro, stove, dishwasher. Sylvan setting. Garage, no pets. (310) 826-7960FURNISHED APARTMENTS 2b
BRENTWOOD GUEST QUARTERS, One person, private entrance, 3 rooms plus bath. N/S, biweekly cleaning, util incl. No pets. $1,500/mo. Call 8 a.m.-9 a.m. or after 5:30 p.m. (310) 472-3079UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS 2c
CHARMING 1,200 SQ. FT. UPPER APT in Mediterranean triplex near bluffs. 3 bdrm, 1 ba, tiles, wood floors, plantation shutters, frplc, ceiling fans, garden. 1 yr lease. $3,500/mo. Available 11/15. N/S, no pets. (310) 804-3142 SPACIOUS APARTMENT. 3+2 UPPER unit. QUIET bldg. Garage, laundry, new carpets, bright. Lots of storage space. $2,600/mo. 1 year lease. No pets/smoking. (310) 498-0149 CHARMING QUIET RESIDENTIAL 1 bdrm, 1 ba guesthouse, new paint, new carpet. $1,400/mo. Call Sean, (310) 454-0288, cell (310) 487-8039 FABULOUS TWH STYLE unit in Pac Palisades. Spacious 2+1 brand new remodel. Granite & stainless steel kit. All hwd flooring, crown mldg. Private grassy patio. No pets, N/S. Ready Dec. 1 at $2,850/mo. (818) 222-7595WANTED TO RENT 3b
QUIET, RESPECTFUL N/S author/self publisher, adventure travel consultant, looking for house sitting, guest house, bungalow, apartment, similar. Westside. 14 year resident of Palisades (same location). Excellent tenant, local references. November thru April preferred (or longer terms). Have home/business in Alaska May thru Oct. Ed, (310) 454-9480 PALISADES COLLEGE SENIOR seeks room in your home. Excellent student, quiet, respectful, N/S. Budget for $400-$500/mo. Please call Ben, (310) 795-7265OFFICE/STORE RENTALS 3C
REAL ESTATE OFFICE, MOVE-IN READY. $300-$1000, near village, 2 pvt office, 7 cubicle desks, DSL, phone jacks, receptionist, reception area, copiers, laser printers, fax, alarm system. Kitchen, conference/rm w/ TV/VCR. Cleaning service. Flex lease terms. Call (310) 254-5496VACATION RENTALS 3e
ENJOY CALIFORNIA DESERT RANCHO MIRAGE. 3,000 sq. ft. home, $5,000/mo. 3 bdrm, 3 ba, Wi-fi, Springs Club, pool, spa, gym, many golf courses available. 3 minutes from cineplex and restaurants, 2 minutes to Eisenhower Hospital. Contact (212) 583-1796 or unoneill@aol.com LUXURY PARIS APT. $2,500/2 wks, Jan.-Feb.-Mar. 2007, 2,000 sq. ft. 3 bdrm, 2 ba, elevator, parquet floors, Wi-fi, all util incl., 2 blks from Luxembourg Gdns. Walk to movies, cafes etc. Contact (212) 583-1796 or unoneill@aol.com FIRST FLOOR HOUSE, 12/15/06-1/3/07. Near village, 1 bdrm, 1 ba+living, dining, kitchen, study, laundry, furnished. $100/night+security. 5 day minimum, N/S, sorry no pets. (310) 459-6462CONDOS/TOWNHOUSES FOR RENT 3f
STUNNING OCEAN VIEW, remodeled 2+2 near beach, large balcony, inside laundry, 2 parking spaces. $3,500/mo. Agent Marta Samulon, (310) 230-2448BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES 5
ATTENTION AFFLUENT PROFESSIONALS: HASSLE-FREE BUSINESS with proven track record. Not everyone will qualify. (570) 971-7527 – www.SeekFinancialFreedom.com EARNING UNLIMITED INCOME? Living Life in your comfort zone? What is Financial Freedom? Call in: (800) 470-5781PERSONALS 6b
SEMPER FI. Be thankful & helpful to all US Marine combat veterans for giving peace & freedom to us all. Ray Nasser, US Marine, Purple Heart. 16321 PCH #63, (310) 454-7432BOOKKEEPING/ACCOUNTING 7b
QUICKBOOKS FOR YOUR SMALL BUSINESS. Set-up, Data Entry, Reporting, Tax Preparation. Over 10 Years of Experience. Palisades Resident. Doris: (310) 913-2753COMPUTER SERVICES 7c
COMPUTER SOLUTIONS & SUPPORT -HOME & BUSINESS – 20 Years Microsoft Experience -HELPING WITH: Windows XP – Windows Media Center FRANKEL CONSULTING 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. End Run-around. Pop-up Expert! Satisfying Clients since 1992. If I Can’t Help, NO CHARGE! COMPUTER WORKS! Alan Perla, (310) 455-2000 THE DETECHTIVESTM – 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 MICROSITE SOLUTIONS. Making websites work for you! Internet consulting company offering website hosting, design, development, eCommerce, merchant services, marketing & more. (310) 922-4442. www.micrositesolutions.comGARAGE, ESTATE SALES 7f
PLANNING A GARAGE SALE? a moving sale? a yard sale? a rummage sale? an estate 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 – Furniture – Antiques – Collectibles – Junque – Reliable professionals Local ReferencesORGANIZING SERVICES 7h
CLARE’S SECRETARIAL SERVICES: Business support company specializing in the organization of your home or office. Trained in U.K. References available. (310) 430-6701NANNIES/BABYSITTERS 8a
VIP NANNY AGENCY. “Providing very important people with the very best nanny.” (818) 907-1017, (310) 614-3646HOUSEKEEPERS 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 HOUSEKEEPER/CAREGIVER, light cooking, 20 years experience in Beverly Hills & Santa Monica, excellent references, own car, CDL, insurance. Available M-F. Call Gloria, (310) 313-1432 or (310) 488-3572 HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE M-F, own transportation, CDL, insured, many years experience. References. Call Marleny, cell (213) 210-3416, hm, (323) 759-1628 HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE NOW! Great references, own transportation, CDL. Call Evila, (323) 997-9157 HOUSEKEEPER OR DRIVING ONLY. I have experience. Good references. Have license. M-F, part time. Call Silvia, (818) 808-5600 HOUSEKEEPER EXPERIENCED IN LARGE HOMES looking for part-time work. Available Thurs. Will do errands, light cooking and housesit. Pet friendly. References available. Call (310) 736-0455 HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE Monday-Saturday. Own transportation. References. Call (323) 718-5975 LOOKING FOR HOUSEKEEPING JOB: Live out, Tuesday & Thursday. 20 years experience, good references, some English. Call (213) 487-2182 HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE Tuesday & Thursday afternoon and Friday all day. Own transportation. Excellent references. I want to work for you. Call Carol, (323) 299-1797 or cell (818) 842-5680ELDER CARE/COMPANIONS 10a
CAREGIVERS/COMPANIONS Live in/out. Minimum 2 years experience. 3 work related references required. CNA’S/CHH’S welcomed. Bondable. Call (323) 932-8700 DO YOU NEED ASSISTANCE with bathing, grooming, personal hygiene, errands, doctors visits or just companionship? Hourly or live in. Licensed and insured. Call 24/7 for all your care needs. Citywide Homehealth Agency, (877) 342-0400GARDENING, 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 ERIC-GARDENING SPECIALIST. Seasonal planting, Pruning, Garden clean-up, 15 years local experience. Call Eric, (310) 633-3173MOVING & 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) 285-8688TREE SERVICE 11d
JOHNSON TREE SERVICE. TREE – SHRUB – STUMP REMOVAL SINCE 1924. No job too small! Consultations. St. lic. #685533. (310) 454-8646, BradMASSAGE THERAPY 12b
AWARD WINNING MASSAGE by Natalie. Deep tissue specialist. Call (310) 993-8899. www.massagebynatalie.faithweb.comWINDOW WASHING 13h
EXPERT WINDOW CLEANER, 20 years Westside. Clean and detailed. Free estimates, sills and screens included. Up to two stories only. Brian, (310) 289-5279 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, bondedMISCELLANEOUS 13i
PRESSURE WASHING. Superior cleaning, driveways, walkways, patios. Craig, (310) 459-9000HOUSESITTING 14b
YOUR PALISADIAN HOUSESITTER, reliable, experienced, loves animals, lives in the Palisades. References upon request. Call Karen, (310) 570-7297PET SERVICES/PET SITTING 14g
PET HEAVEN – TOTAL PET CARE. Training. Walking. Playgroups and hikes. 30 years Pali resident. References. Call (310) 454-0058 for a happy dog. HAPPY PET – Dog Walking – Park Outings – Socialization. Connie, (310) 230-3829 TRUSTED HOUSE/PET CARE IN PALISADES AREA. Retired teacher with 3 golden retrievers. Walking – Playgroup therapy – References. Call Chris, (310) 454-4768PERSONAL SHOPPING 14k
PERSONALIZED SHOPPING FOR THE HOLIDAYS & beyond. Yule love Us! Give us your shopping list, we do the rest. Call AT YOUR SERVICE IN LA, (310) 230-1932 YOU SHOP . . . DR. WRAP wraps it up at your location! Beautiful papers & satin ribbons; gift baskets wrapped; corporate & personal wrappings. Highly professional & seen on HGTV; resume available; $75 min. “house call.” Call Dr. Wrap, (310) 995-5624. www.wrapitupmobile.comFITNESS INSTRUCTION 15a
HAVE FUN! GET FIT! NORDIC WALKING CLASSES. Certified Nordic walking instructor teaches private/group classes in the Palisades. Weekends. Call for schedule & rates. (310) 266-4651SCHOOLS, INSTRUCTION 15d
PIANO INSTRUCTION. Give the life-long gift of music! Very patient, creative teacher. Music degree, USC. Qualified, experienced, local. Lisa Lukas, (310) 454-0859. www.palisadesmusicstudio.com MUSICAL TRAINING IN YOUR HOME. Piano – Voice – Guitar – Drums – Percussion. A system of communication which allows for miraculous & immediate results. Cathleen, (310) 390-1969 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 HIGHLY GIFTED CHILDREN WANTED. Small school, Santa Monica, Project based, individualized instruction. Ages 9-14. (310) 880-9369 – wwwpcclschool.comTUTORS 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 ages – All levels – Local refs – Flexible hrs. 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 MATH & SCIENCE TUTOR, Middle school-college level. BS LAUSD credentialed high school teacher. Test Prep. Flexible hours. Available to help NOW! Seth Freeman, (310) 909-3049 LOCAL CREDENTIALED HS TEACHER. Experienced tutoring specializing in Algebra and Chemistry. Experienced in helping students with learning differences too! Call Carole at (310) 749-3378 STANFORD-EDUCATED Math & Science Tutor- Four years experience tutoring Physics, Chemistry, Algebra I&II, Geometry, Trig, Analysis, Calculus, SAT II 1C & 2C, and even robotics. Young(ish) and personable. Engineering degree. In-home convenience. References. Chris, (323) 309-6687 SPANISH TUTOR CERTIFIED TEACHER for all levels. Has finest education, qualifications, 17 yrs exper. Palisades resident. many good refs. Amazing system. Affordable rates. Marietta, (310) 459-8180CABINET MAKING 16
CUSTOM WOODWORK AND CABINETS. Craftsmanship quality, 20 years experience, local resident. Local references available. General Contractor Calif. License #402923. Ron Dillaway, (310) 455-4462. rondillaway@yahoo.comCONCRETE, 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.comCONSTRUCTION 16d
CASTLE CONSTRUCTION. New homes, remodeling, additions, fine finish carpentry. Serving the Westside for 20 yrs. Lic. #649995. Call James, (310) 450-6237 ALAN PINE, GENERAL CONTRACTOR. New homes – Remodeling – Additions – Kitchen & bath. Planning/Architectural services – Licensed & Insured. #469435. (800) 800-0744 or (818) 203-8881 PALISADES CONSTRUCTION NOW ACCEPTS VISA, MC & AMEX! Custom remodel – Decks – Floors – Kitchen – Bath – Elec. – Plumbing. Nobody does it better! Lic. #784088. Jason, (310) 980-2463ELECTRICAL 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 (Not lic.). Please Call (310) 454-6849 or (818) 317-8286FENCES 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 16l
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. Senior 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 & refinishing. National Wood Flooring Association member. Lic. #732286 Plenty of local references. (877) 622-2200. www.goldenhardwoodfloors.comHANDYMAN 16n
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) 455-0803 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 THE HANDY GUY. Any job, big or small. Over 16 years experience. Lic #B-858574. We’re proud to donate our services to Habitat for Humanity. (310) 216-9034 LOCAL ENGLISH HANDYMAN serving the Palisades 10 years. You can trust me to do the job right. Hourly rates/bids. Not lic. (310) 454-3838 – (310) 367-6383 HANDYMAN – PAINTING – DRYWALL REPAIRS – Water damage repair – Small carpentry work – 17 years EXCELLENT service & experience. FREE ESTIMATES! Call (310) 502-1168. Not lic.HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING 16o
SANTA MONICA HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING. INSTALLATION: New and old service and repairs. Lic. #324942 (310) 393-5686PAINTING, PAPERHANGING 16q
PAUL HORST – Interior & Exterior – PAINTING – 52 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) 454-6604PLUMBING 16s
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) 429-7187REMODELING 16u
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) 455-0803 COMPLETE CUSTOM CONSTRUCTION. New homes – Kitchen – Bath – Remodeling – Additions. Quality work at reasonable rates guaranteed. Large and small projects welcomed. Lic. #751137. Call Michael Hoff Construction today, (310) 230-2930ROOFING 16v
SOLAR PANEL CLEANERS: bird droppings (major obstacle), leaves, dust removed, benefit from global warming. License #576445, bonded. Owen Cruickshank, (310) 459-5485HELP WANTED 17
DRIVERS: 150K PER YEAR-TEAMS! Earn more plus GREAT Benefits! Western Regional Solo and Team Runs. Werner Enterprises, (800) 346-2818 x123 LADY WANTED FOR LIVE-IN position. Light housekeeping. Help with handicapped daughter. (310) 457-3393 WANTED COLLEGE STUDENT who drives own car, CDL, homework helper. Fun & friendly. Once a week, Wednesday, 3 p.m.-8 p.m. Please call (310) 573-5041 WANTED: HYGIENIST. For Thursday only. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Call (310) 454-3732. Fax: (310) 459-2245 GETTY VILLA MUSEUM STORE ASSOCIATE Malibu, CA. P/T, varied sched (eve, wknds). 2 yrs retail exp., H.S. Diploma. $10.70/hr. Cover letter, resume to jobs@getty.edu BENTONS SPORT SHOP: full- & part time retail sales personnel needed. Positions avail for both mornings &/or afternoons. Exper helpful but not mandatory. Apply in person: 1038 Swarthmore, (310) 459-8451 HOUSEKEEPER WANTED 2 days per week (schedule flexible) for family of 4 in Brentwood Hills. Call Cheryl: (310) 780-8115 YMCA TREE LOT. Positions available for labor & sales, Need delivery drivers. Call Jim, (310) 454-5591. Apply at YMCALA.org/PM MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST FRONT OFFICE F/T work for internist. Must be organized and friendly. Medical experience required. Fax resume: (310) 230-3033 PART TIME RECEPTIONIST 1 p.m.-6 p.m. M-F, Saturday 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Must have people skills & be able to multi/task, some computer skills. Call (310) 573-7707, fax (310) 454-7122, ask for Kat MANICURIST STATION FOR RENT in friendly work environment. We have clientele for you. Call for details, (310) 454-3521 LAUNDRESS, 3-4 DAYS/WK. Must be very experienced, able to iron shirts. References needed. (310) 573-1891 DRIVERS: LOCAL-HOME NIGHTS! Hourly pay+benefits. 2 yrs CDL-A experience, good DMV record. CAL STATE XPRESS. LeAnna, (562) 806-7333ART 18a
HOLIDAY ART GLASS SALE. Palisadian artist Serge Lashutka is having an art glass sale. Each object was individually handcrafted by Serge. This sale of blown glass includes a wide variety of styles, sizes, colors and prices. Large to small, vases, bud vases, Venetian goblets, tumblers, bowls and a few seconds. Saturday, December 2, 2006. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at 1024 Kagawa Street. Preview at sergeglass.comAUTOS 18b
1989 CADILLAC EL DORADO super clean, 112K, new alt., new battery, new radiator, new front brakes. $3,000 obo. Ask for Roger, mention ad: (310) 450-5644 CASH 4 BMW/MERCEDES BENZ $ 1980-1995, running or not. Any questions please call (310) 995-5898 1995 MITSUBISHI MONTERO SR fully loaded, excellent condition, sun roof, third row seat. $5,500. (310) 367-5803 2002 CHRSYLER TOWN & COUNTRY VAN LTD. Single owner, loaded, w/ DVD/VHS, chrome wheels, new tires, 44,000 miles w/ 70,000 factory warranty. Excellent family car. Great condition. $11,900 obo. (310) 913-1700 ’04 CHRYSLER SEBRING, SILVER, 4-cyl. 2.4 liter 4 door, 14,800 miles, under warranty, air, power steering, windows, door locks, tilt wheel am/fm, 6 disc cd player abs, air bags. One family car. (310) 459-6188FURNITURE 18c
COUNTRY FRENCH DINING ROOM SET, $1,800 obo. Seats eight. Beautiful, pecan finish. Eight chairs. Carved legs, excellent quality. Purchased at Glabmans new for $8,000. Karastan rug (8′ x 12′) for $350. (310) 913-1700GARAGE, ESTATE SALES 18d
FINAL SALE DAYS. 531 EL MEDIO, Pacific Palisades 8 a.m.-12 p.m. November 24th and 25th, Friday & Saturday. Furniture, indoor/outdoor items, misc. NO EARLY BIRDS PLEASE. GARAGE SALE-GREAT STUFF! Furniture, clothes, kids stuff, books, etc. Saturday, November 25th, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. 1377 Avenida de Cortez in Highlands. OPEN HOUSE GARAGE SALE. Relocation, everything must go. Antiques from Morocco & India, German furniture & clothes & much more. 17822 Porto Marina Way. Pacific Palisades Nov. 25-26, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.PETS, LIVESTOCK 18e
“WOULD YOU LIKE TO ENJOY THE LOVE & companionship of 2 adorable miniature dachshunds but, NOT ALL the responsibility???” Looking for doggie time share! Call (310) 863-3030MISCELLANEOUS 18g
MITSUBISHI 55 INCH WIDE SCREEN, rear projection HDTV with companion progressive scan DVD player+component video cables. $795. (310) 828-7583 EPSON R800 COLOR PRINTER. New in box. Price $350, store price $399+tax. (310) 454-5713WANTED TO BUY 19
WANTED: Old tube guitar amplifiers, ’50s, ’60s, etc. Tommy, (310) 306-7746 – profeti2001@yahoo.comInez Beye, Longtime Resident
Inez Beye, who had been a 59-year resident of Pacific Palisades, passed away peacefully October 29 at her daughter’s home in San Luis Obispo. She was 91. Born and raised in New York, Inez studied at the University of Rome, and in 1935 came to California to live with her sister, Dolores, and attend the University of Southern California. After graduating, she taught physical education and science in Lancaster, where she met Bill Beye. They married and moved to Los Angeles and in 1947 built their home in the Palisades. Inez was a community leader and activist. Some of her accomplishments included helping to found Corpus Christi Parish and School in the Palisades, serving as president of the American Association of University Women, and being a Girl Scout leader. She was a substitute teacher in the Santa Monica School District and continued substituting well into her 80s at Santa Monica High. Inez was also physically active and fit, and up until last year could be seen country-line dancing with her over 90-year-old sister, Maria, at the Palisades Recreation Center. She was an avid golfer, swimmer and gardener and enjoyed playing bridge. The Beyes were adventuresome. In 1954, Bill took a sabbatical and worked for Aid to Developing Countries. He and Inez traveled with their children to Asmara, Eritrea where they lived for two years. They also took assignments in Mexico and Nicaragua. Inez continued to display her love for travel and especially exploring other cultures throughout her life. Inez was loved by her neighborhood and had many multi-generational friends. She had a great love for children, especially teenagers. She is survived by her daughters, Gerry Robertson of San Luis Obispo and Marty Nason of Simi Valley. Her husband Bill and son Larry predeceased her. She was a proud grandmother of eight and a great-grandmother of one. Her family is so thankful to Hospice Partners for their loving care. A celebration of Inez’s life will be held on Saturday, December 2 at 11 a.m. at the Woman’s Club on Haverford Avenue. Memorial donations may be made to The Wellness Community Valley/Ventura (co-founded by Inez’s daughter Marty), 530 Hampshire Rd., Westlake Village, CA 91361 or Hospice Partners of the Central Coast, 277 South Street, Suite R, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.
PaliHi Board OKs Calendar Change
The Palisades Charter High School Board approved a controversial change to the school’s academic calendar last week despite vocal opposition from parents and students. If an agreement is reached with the teacher’s union, the approved 2007-2008 calendar means that classes will start August 20 and end June 6, rather than beginning after Labor Day and ending in late June. In contrast to the current calendar, in which the fall semester ends weeks after winter break, that semester will now end before the three-week break. PaliHi’s Academic Watch Committee initially proposed making the change after it concluded that the winter break’s interruption of the fall semester was a significant source of underachievement. It also argued that the new calendar would give Advanced Placement students two additional weeks to study for these tests. But any change will have to depend on the union representing the overwhelming majority of PaliHi’s teachers, said Joi Tanita, United Teachers Los Angeles chapter chair and a Pali physical education teacher. Next week, UTLA leaders will officially poll all union-represented faculty and bring the result of that vote to the bargaining table when UTLA-Administration talks begin December 12. ‘They can’t just change the terms of the contract,’ Tanita told the Palisadian-Post. ‘That is subject to negotiation.’ The Policy Committee at the school researched the proposal and polled teachers, staff, parents and students on the proposed changes. If the calendar is ultimately approved, it could cost the school an additional $80,000 in transportation expenses, according to Greg Wood, PaliHi’s chief business officer. But that cost was not available to stakeholders when they were polled. About $20,000 would come from the normal academic year, said Wood. The rest of the cost would come from expanding summer school transportation, and that cost is optional. At this point, the complete costs are still uncertain and will likely depend on negotiations with LAUSD, said Executive Director Amy Held. Students and parents strongly opposed the new calendar changes, and the board’s approval of the new calendar over their objections has left both groups frustrated. On Tuesday morning, hundreds of students walked out of class and into the central quad to protest the change. Parents leaving last week’s meeting asked how they could appeal the decision. Of 1,812 students polled, more than 67 percent opposed the change. And of 815 parents polled, 57 percent opposed the change. ‘I am upset about the way they treated the parents,’ said Dr. Lainie Sugarman, who spoke at the November 14 meeting. ‘Why did we separate from L.A. Unified to have a board that’s not going to listen to parents?’ A common concern among parents was the prospect of juggling incompatible schedules. Because all other local public schools have no plans of changing their schedules, parents with children at PaliHi and other public schools could face conflicting winter, spring and summer breaks. ‘I have two kids in two other schools,’ said Alicia Albek, a parent of a ninth grade PaliHi student. ‘They’re not going to be on the same schedule at all. And my son is going to lose a significant part of the summer.’ The current school year begins September 5 and ends June 22. But for returning Pali students and incoming first-year students, an August 20 start next school year means they would lose at least two weeks of summer break. Parents and students speaking to the board last week also disputed the academic benefit of ending the fall semester before winter break. One parent said that the break gave her daughter needed time to study and write term papers before finals. The board voted 7-2 in favor of the new calendar, and proponents cited teacher support as a reason to override parent and student opposition. ‘Most of the complaints from parents weren’t about academics,’ said Mary Redclay, a board member and teacher. ‘We need to do what’s good for the entire school. We need to keep in mind what the academic benefit of this change is.’ With the new calendar, PaliHi would align itself with most East Coast schools but not LAUSD. Academic Watch expects that the extra two weeks would put Pali on a more level playing field with East Coast AP test-takers. Granada Hills Charter High School adopted the change in 2003, and their transition to the new calendar as an LAUSD school was also a motivating factor for PaliHi. Of 123 teachers and classified employees polled, 63 percent favored the change. One teacher, who spoke on background to the Palisadian-Post, called that number misleading because it did not isolate teachers from classified employees. Also, 52 of the school’s 115 teachers did not participate in the poll. A similar calendar change was proposed a year ago at PaliHi, but that proposal was rejected.
Palisadian Named Ambassador to Uruguay
Palisades Highlands resident Frank E. Baxter became the U.S. Ambassador to Uruguay November 7. He will move next week to that country’s capital, Montevideo, where he will represent U.S. interests in the South American country, located between Argentina and Brazil. He was appointed by President George W. Bush on September 15 and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on September 29. Baxter is a retired businessman and a prolific philanthropist. He is former chairman of the Alliance for College-Ready Public Schools, a nonprofit organization that has opened seven charter middle schools and high schools in Los Angeles since 2004. At his swearing-in ceremony on November 7 in Washington, D.C., Baxter said: ‘I want to put my experience and relationships in business, education, and the arts at the disposal of the government and people of Uruguay. ‘However, I also want to remember that my creator gave me two ears and one mouth for a reason. I first want to listen carefully and, in the words of Steven Covey, seek first to understand and then to be understood. I also want to work hard to have our citizens become more aware of the Uruguayan people, culture and products.’ Baxter was CEO of the Jefferies Group, a national brokerage, from 1987 to 2000, when he stepped down and became chairman. He was one of the founders of the Club for Growth, a conservative group of Wall Street executives who back congressional candidates. He and his wife, Kathy, have been married 44 years and are active financial contributors to Republican causes. During the 2006 election, they contributed more than $100,000 to the Republican Party and Republican candidates, making them among the largest political contributors in the Palisades. In the 2004 presidential election, Baxter was considered a Pioneer, a title reserved for top George Bush campaign fundraisers. Baxter has visited Asia with Governor Schwarzenegger on state trade missions. In the 2002 gubernatorial campaign, he was the fundraising chairman for fellow Palisadian Bill Simon, who lost to incumbent Gray Davis. Uruguay is one of South America’s most economically prosperous and socially stable countries. The country has maintained friendly ties to the U.S. despite the region’s open mistrust of the Bush administration. Baxter would not return a request for an interview with the Palisadian-Post.
PaliHi Admission: No Guarantee For All Students from Revere
With applications exceeding available seats at Palisades Charter High School for the first time last year and expectations of that trend continuing, the school has been forced to formalize its admissions policy. But not everyone is happy with the changes. A decision last week by the PaliHi Board means that admission to the high school will not be guaranteed for all students at Paul Revere Middle School. According to the board’s vote, first priority for filling next year’s anticipated 800 empty seats will be given to applicants from PaliHi’s historical attendance area. That includes residents of Pacific Palisades, Topanga and areas of Brentwood. Also included are traveling students from PaliHi’s 12 sending high school areas who currently attend Paul Revere. These 12 areas include Belmont, Crenshaw, Dorsey, Fairfax, Fremont, Hamilton, Hollywood, Jefferson, Los Angeles, Manual Arts, Van Nuys and Washington. But current Revere students who live outside the Palisades and these 12 sending areas, in places like Venice and Santa Monica, will be given second priority in admission. Third priority will be given to all other applicants. The application window began October 1 and will end March 1. If needed, a public lottery is scheduled for March 15. Admissions will not be based upon the order in which they are received but rather on the priorities described above. Although PaliHi administrators expect a large applicant pool, they said that based on current projections a lottery will not be needed for Paul Revere students, according to a school press release. Before the board voted to formalize these admissions priorities at its November 14 meeting, parents of students whose acceptance to Pali now seems less than certain expressed fear and frustration. ‘I was told when my daughter enrolled in Canyon Charter Elementary, she could stay in the charter complex,’ said Terra Rosenfeld, a resident of Venice and mother of daughters at Canyon and Revere. ‘It feels like my kids don’t matter. You have to think about the relationships our children have formed.’ One parent after another described how they enrolled their children in local public schools with the understanding that admission to PaliHi was guaranteed. Some parents said their children have begun applying to private schools so that they’ll have another option. ‘We were assured that if our kids went to Paul Revere, they would go to PaliHi,’ said John Calles, a Venice resident and the father of a Revere student. ‘We need to grandfather current Revere students into Pali. [Otherwise], to do this to parents at this late a stage is almost unethical.’ This new admissions policy at PaliHi has come as a surprise to Revere administrators, who have been flooded with phone calls from anxious parents. Interim Principal Teresa Riddle said that no one contacted her or her assistant principals from PaliHi to warn them of the changes. About 500 former Revere students constitute Pali’s 800-student freshman class. ‘This has been the feeder pattern since Pali opened,’ said Riddle. ‘Revere students went to Pali. It’s a 30-year-old pattern. I don’t get it.’ As a condition of its charter and state and federal law, Palisades High is obligated to reserve 850 seats schoolwide for students from failing and overcrowded schools. But because it is still uncertain how many seats will go to such students next fall, Pali cannot automatically accept all Paul Revere students this year. Those seats are not always filled, creating more space for local, nonresident students. Another factor adding uncertainty is new Palisades residents. The school is required to accept all Palisades children, but correctly estimating the number of students who will move here after the March 1 deadline is difficult. The school has currently set aside 20 seats for such students next school year. Rumors fueled by parent anxiety and misinformation have spread among prospective Palisades home buyers. Sharon Hays, a local realtor, said that some clients have lost interest in buying in the Palisades because they mistakenly thought that they would not be able to send their children to PaliHi. Although all local residents can attend PaliHi, they must submit an application before March 1. Families moving to the Palisades after that deadline should submit an application as soon as they arrive, said Margaret Evans, assistant principal.
Potrero Park Completion Stalled by City
As the frenetic holiday season begins, the Potrero Canyon Park project has entered the doldrums. The buttressing, drainage and fill phase of the nearly 20-year project still awaits final compaction (Phase II); the city has yet to forward its request to the Coastal Commission to allow the proceeds from residential lot sales to be used to complete the final phase (Phase III); and the Potrero Canyon Community Advisory Committee is awaiting further input from Huntington neighbors as it plans the park’s future. While little forward motion resulted from last Wednesday’s monthly meeting at the Palisades Recreation Center, the Potrero committee and audience members learned the Fire Department’s requirements for emergency access to the canyon. In a letter to the committee, the LAFD stated that a secondary access point must be provided in addition to the entrance at Pacific Coast Highway. Entrances from Frontera and around the tennis courts would be acceptable, but an entrance adjacent to the baseball fields (next to Patterson Place) would be denied because of the topography. Closure of Frontera, off Alma Real, would be acceptable as long as another point of access is available. The Fire Department also requested two turnarounds and at least two fire hydrants as part of developing the fire lane, and confirmed that dirt surfaces would be permissible for fire roads. This point seemed to please several committee members, as they thought dirt roads would discourage skateboarders. Discussion of Phase III, which involves creation of riparian habitat, centered on the details Environmental Process supervisor David Attaway outlined in the CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act). Attaway was involved in the 1985 environmental impact report (EIR) that governed Phases I and II of the Potrero project. According to Attaway, Phase III will be go through a review process with the Department of Recreation and Parks, and if environmental impacts (such as recreation, noise, traffic and hydrology) cannot be mitigated, a new EIR process will be required. Attaway added that planning for the park and the CEQA review could proceed simultaneously. ‘You could start the CEQA process at the end of the concept phase,’ he said. ‘CEQA could review the design, and modifications could be made as you go along.’ However, the Potrero committee would have to submit a new EIR (if that is deemed necessary) to the Coastal Commission before the original permit could be amended. Members of the Huntington group are hoping that a new EIR will be required. They are currently preparing a new plan for Phase III, which will reflect their concerns about a potential increase in traffic and vandalism resulting from Potrero Canyon Park activity, once the park is completed.
Fundraising Begins for Swim Complex at PaliHi
Photo by Rich Schmitt, Staff Photographer
Palisades High administrators and faculty members launched a $3.5-million capital campaign Sunday for the on-campus Maggie Gilbert Aquatic Center. The state-of-the-art complex will be built on a wedge of land at the corner of Temescal Canyon Road and Bowdoin Street, replacing outdoor handball and basketball courts. The projected completion date is fall 2008. Rose Gilbert, the legendary 88-year-old English teacher at PaliHi, was also honored at the kick-off brunch in Marina Del Rey, in recognition of her initial pledge of $1 million to name the aquatic center after her late daughter, who was a swimmer. Gilbert donated an additional $100,000 on Sunday, bringing the project’s funding up to $1,121,000. The pool committee is headed by Maggie Nance, who coaches both of the school’s City-championship swim teams. Donation checks (made out to the PaliHi Pool Fund) can be sent to: Palisades High, 15777 Bowdoin St., Pacific Palisades, CA 90272.
