Less than a week before the mayoral election, Antonio Villaraigosa met with Pacific Palisades residents at Mort’s Deli to discuss his plans for public safety improvements prompted by several commercial robberies in town this year. Villaraigosa spent about two hours last Wednesday listening to concerned citizens, talking to business owners and touring Swarthmore north of Sunset to learn more about the town’s security issues. He chatted with Bobbie Farberow, owner of Mort’s Deli, over a cup of hot tea, and held 7-month-old Matthew Burlin, whose father grew up in the Palisades. Farberow told the mayoral candidate about the March 30 robbery at Mort’s, when two young male suspects held up the popular Palisades restaurant at gunpoint shortly before it closed at 10 p.m. She said it was the first robbery Mort’s has had in its 32-year history. Another resident shared her concerns about the empty police car that is often parked in front of the Mobil Station on Sunset at Swarthmore, saying that ‘it seems symbolic of an empty gesture.’ Others described incidents in which they had been robbed in residential areas, near their homes, and said they were disappointed with the slow response time of police. ‘The point is that we need more police,’ said Villaraigosa, who sat at a round table with L.A. Councilmember Bernard Parks, L.A. County Sheriff Lee Baca, Farberow and other Palisadians. ‘Not just here, but throughout the city. This is the most under-policed big city in the nation.’ He explained that most major cities such as New York and Chicago have about 40 percent more police than Los Angeles. Part of his plan is for the City of L.A. to immediately hire 359 new officers using funds within its current budget. One resident asked, ‘Can we have one here?’ Farberow joked, ‘We’ll give you free food.’ Villaraigosa smiled a pearly white grin but carefully did not respond. Instead, he added that he plans to meet with the new LAPD West Bureau captain to discuss the increase in crime and, in the long term, to look for funding to put 1,200 more officers on L.A. streets. ‘I’m not only committed but I’m going to do it,’ he promised residents. Then, Farberow led him on a walking tour of Swarthmore, during which he met several more residents and employees at some of the local businesses. Villaraigosa shook hands with Erika Simpson, owner of PaliSkates at 1019 Swarthmore, who told him, ‘Business is great. It’s been a little affected by crime going on in the area. People are a little freaked out.’ A Boca employee at 1022 Swarthmore said that the recent robberies in the Palisades are ‘a little unnerving’ and ‘it would be nice to see a few more officers up here.’ Villaraigosa made his way down and up Swarthmore, stopping briefly to admire the engraved tiles lining the east side of the street. ‘There are so many neat little shops here,’ he said, stopping to shake hands with a fellow East L.A. resident who was dining outside at Terri’s. Villaraigosa had come to the Palisades that morning from his house in Mt. Washington. At a press conference back at Mort’s, Villaraigosa told the community that he wants to help preserve its ‘bucolic’ feel. ‘I want to expand neighborhood watches in communities like this one.’ He said he proposes ‘to double the number of senior lead officers and work with local security to identify ‘hot spots’ [high crime areas]’ and ‘to implement crime prevention and intervention programs,’ which he called ‘a safety net for some of these young people.’ Villaraigosa introduced Sheriff Lee Baca, who thanked Farberow ‘for the great breakfast I had this morning’ and then spoke in support of the mayoral candidate. ‘What L.A. needs is a mayor who will walk the beat of the streets of L.A.,’ Baca said. ‘A mayor on the beat is someone who is tireless to the task, who will step into problems without fear of being burned, who takes the mindset of a cop on the beat. ‘This is a mayor on the beat in the making. We all need a new sense of leadership. We need the vitality and energy of Mr. Villaraigosa.’ Former West L.A. Captain Paul Kim said that Villaraigosa ‘has a keen sense of justice’ and that ‘he will work tirelessly…until he gets more police officers in the field.’ After leaving the Palisades, Villaraigosa headed to his campaign office downtown, and later to a candidate forum sponsored by Rock the Vote in South Los Angeles.
Community Council Discusses Impacts of PaliHi’s Open Campus
Community Council members and concerned residents discussed Palisades Charter High School’s open-campus policy at last Thursday’s Council meeting, prompted by community fears after an attempted mugging that occurred in town last Monday, May 9. The suspects were not PaliHi students but Jack Sutton, executive director of PaliHi, said that the incident ‘sensitized’ the school to the issue of student relations with the community. The victim of the attempted mugging, Palisades resident Kaden Foster, attended the meeting with her neighbor Gary Boyle, who played a key role in apprehending the two juvenile suspects (‘Youth Arrested After Attempted Robbery; Neighbor Plays Key Role,’ Palisadian-Post, May 12). In an emotional account, Foster recounted for the Council what happened the evening she was walking home from the market at 8:40 p.m. in the 800 block of Haverford. She was approached by two African American males, ages 15 and 16 respectively, who demanded money from her while stating that they were armed with a gun. When Foster observed what appeared to be a handgun in one of the suspect’s pockets (later discovered to be an air pistol), she screamed for help and both suspects fled on foot. Boyle came to her aid, called 911, and drove around the area to look for the two suspects, providing the police with information about two possible suspects whom they ultimately detained. Boyle voiced his concern about students roaming the village throughout the day and causing trouble. ‘As taxpaying citizens, I don’t believe the students’ rights should outweigh our rights,’ he said. The current open-campus policy at PaliHi allows 12th grade students off-campus privileges. However, Council advisor Sam Stigler, a former Pali student, said, ‘Pali probably doesn’t have enough people checking to see if the students in the village are only seniors.’ Boyle suggested that the PaliHi administration call an assembly to discuss with their students the idea of seniors policing themselves, an idea that Council Chair Norman Kulla supported. Youth representative Stephi Magur suggested that the school install a patrol guard to check IDs of students leaving campus and that school guards also patrol the stairs from the Methodist Church to Haverford, a path commonly used by students going to and from the village. Lighting the stairs area would also be helpful, Magur said. Another resident and former PaliHi student, whose children attend Palisades Elementary, said that PaliHi should ‘come up with a program where students volunteer to be informal watch people.’ Listening to these suggestions, Sutton said, ‘We will pursue looking into the issue with the LAPD and Palisades patrol. It’s our responsibility to take care of this.’ He added that the school’s board of directors would discuss the issue. The Council generally agreed to work towards fostering mutual respect between students and the community before revisiting the idea of closing the PaliHi campus to eliminate off-campus privileges for all students (which was the practice until the late 1970s). Kulla concluded that he would follow up with Sutton to encourage students to take greater responsibility for their conduct in the village, monitor the current open-campus policy, and seek improved supervision of students off-campus via peer review and LAUSD police/security patrol, including monitoring of the school parking lot.
An Artful Life
Photo by Rich Schmitt, Staff Photographer
For Dallas Price-Van Breda, becoming one of L.A.’s biggest contemporary art collectors came about almost by accident. A taste for the modern was first ignited when she bought a Ray Kappe wood-and-glass house in Santa Monica Canyon more than a quarter-century ago. At the time, she and former husband David Price took a vote among their five children: stay in their traditional home on San Remo in the Riviera or move to an ultra-contemporary new house. ‘They were all in favor of the change,’ Price-Van Breda recalls during a recent interview in the breathtaking structure she still calls home. The house boasts 11 different levels, with an incredible indoor/outdoor synergy achieved by huge expanses of glass. ‘David thought our traditional furniture would look just fine,’ she says with a laugh. ‘No way was I going to buy this house and put our wingback chairs in here.’ Despite her commitment to contemporary furnishings, it took several years before Price-Van Breda turned her focus to up-to-the-minute art. ‘I was still so involved with my kids,’ she explains. ‘I didn’t have time to run around and look in galleries.’ The opening of ‘Pandora’s box’ happened when she accompanied her husband, founder of American Golf Corporation, on a trip abroad to attend a Young Presidents’ Organization meeting. ‘David attended a business meeting and I went to hear a man talk about contemporary art,’ says Price-Van Breda, who was vice-president of the family corporation until it was sold three years ago.’ The speaker showed slides of work by Claes Oldenburg, including a series of prints depicting screws. I really loved them and ended up buying a print when I got home.’ This first major purchase 20 years ago launched a love affair with collecting and supporting contemporary art that hasn’t slowed down since. When wall space’sparse to begin with in a house constructed mostly of glass’ran out, a building known as gallery one sprung up on the property. ‘When all the volleyball players moved on, then I was free to access that piece of land,’ Price-Van Breda says, referring to the courts her kids had used while growing up. Gallery one, an elegant structure designed by architectural partners Steve Johnson and Jim Favaro, was quickly followed by the building of gallery two, with the racquetball court sacrificed this time for art’s sake. Both buildings blend seamlessly with the house, using the same redwood exterior siding. The Museum of Contemporary Art, where Price-Van Breda is a founder and trustee, held its annual gala dinner on April 30 in her honor. Her gift of $10 million to MOCA in 2000 remains the single largest donation in the museum’s history. ‘I didn’t restrict it,’ she said. ‘If you use it to pay the light bill, that’s okay. But if you can buy a great piece of art, that’s great too.’ The fun-loving Price-Van Breda made sure her recent party at MOCA was no staid affair. In fact, this grandmother of nine made her entrance on a silver Harley-Davidson, a surprise to all, including MOCA officials. A penchant for extreme sports propelled her to climb mountains throughout the world, including all of the ‘Seven Summits.’ Her philanthropy is far-reaching, too, including co-founding the Oaks Christian High School that opened five years ago in Westlake Village. Price-Van Breda made a point of shifting the spotlight of the MOCA gala to artists, especially those who are represented in her personal collection. ‘It was very nice to ask me to be the honoree,’ she says in a characteristically understated tone. ‘But I really wanted to honor the artists.’ The task proved daunting, with a couple hundred artists all falling into the category of having work owned by Price-Van Breda. She winnowed the list to 25 artists, all from the Los Angeles area. ‘I have Ed Ruscha’s work and I like him immensely. But I didn’t include him since he’s so well-known and so good. I preferred to include names of artists who didn’t have the exposure he does.’ Nonetheless, well-recognized names emerge from the chosen list’Chris Burden, Nancy Rubins, Billy Al Bengston, Chuck Arnoldi, John Frame, Monique Prieto, and Uta Barth, to name a few’all of whom are personal friends of Price-Van Breda. ‘I know that a great number of people in the entertainment industry are collectors of contemporary art, but it’s extremely disappointing that they’re not supporters of the arts,’ she says. ‘They are the ones who have the wherewithal to do that, and I feel it’s shameful that they don’t.’ The ebb and flow of art in her two private home galleries is overseen entirely by Price Van-Breda, who works without the assistance of a curator. ‘It’s a collection of what I like,’ she says. Her home and galleries frequently are opened to interested groups. ‘I have to tell you it’s a pain, but I feel it’s a responsibility when you have something others would like to enjoy.’ Now the Oaks Christian High School is the beneficiary of its founder’s love of art. ‘When I buy something new, I have to replace an existing piece. Rather than store it’that’s like a dead letter office’I take it out to the school,’ she says. Among the works showcased there is a 6-by-22- foot-long work by Tony Berlant, whose medium is found tin and brass. ‘The school is the most wonderful thing I have ever done,’ Price-Van Breda adds. ‘It came from the heart, and when you do things from the heart, they turn out pretty well.’ She and Bob Van Breda, a commercial real estate developer, will celebrate their second wedding anniversary this month. The couple also has homes in Indian Wells, San Francisco and Sonoma. The down-to-earth Price-Van Breda has little patience for those who are forever questioning the meaning behind contemporary art. ‘It doesn’t have to mean anything,’ she says with a dismissive swing of her arm. ‘It can just be.’
Young Palisadians
MATTHEW WHITE, 16, a sophomore at University High School, won First Place in High School Poetry at the Sixth Annual Holocaust Art and Writing Contest on March 11. This is the second year in a row Matthew has won the contest. Both years, he won $500, and received a textbook entitled ‘The Holocaust Chronicles.’ ‘Last year, I was allowed to watch Thomas Toivi Blatt (survivor of Sobibor) and Leon Leyson (saved by Oskar Schindler) speak, and gained copies of Blatt’s ‘From The Ashes of Sobibor,” said Matthew. He also escorted a Holocaust survivor, Elisabeth Mann, during a ceremony honoring the Danes and Swedes who helped the Jews during the War. ‘This year, Gerda Weissman Klein (Oscar winner) was there to speak, and we received a copy of her book ‘All But My Life.” The contest is made possible by Chapman University, the Rodgers Center for Holocaust Education and the Stern Chair in Holocaust Education, in partnership with the ‘1939’ Club (of Holocaust survivors) and the Samueli Foundation. On April 11, Matthew attended a seminar at Chapman at which Nobel Peace Prize winner Elie Wiesel spoke. ‘It was a really surreal kind of thing,’ Matthew said. ‘I had read his book ‘Night’ in fourth grade. It was one of the most incredible books I ever read. It’s a terrific honor to be able to meet him.’ The theme of this year’s contest was ‘What can we do today to heal the world.’ ‘I am vehemently anti-war, so I thought I might as well make this poem political but related to the Holocaust. I wrote about how people today can better the world, filtered through the kaleidoscope of the Holocaust,’ said Matthew who also spoke out in his poem about the politics of the current U.S. administration. Matthew, whose own family came here from the Ukraine in the late 1910s, became interested in the subject in fourth grade. ‘The power of photographs became evident to me over time, and I was interested in the diversity; Jews died from Greece, where life and culture for them was utterly different from Jews living in Lithuania.’ Matthew is also interested in prose, has written novels and is working on a play. Also an actor, he is playing Jean Valjean in ‘Les Miserables’ at University High School June 3 and 4, and he played the lead role of Abuelo in the school’s Spanish-language production of ‘La Dama del Alba,’ by Alejandro Casona. Although his winning poem is in English, he wrote the title of it in Spanish, ‘Mientras So’aban, Otra Persona Se Despert’,’ which translates as ‘While you (or they) were sleeping, another person awoke.’ ‘A lot of points seem more poetic and fluid in Spanish than in English,’ he said. An excerpt from Matthew White’s prize-winning poem: Sixty years ago, we were all liberated, and we all said things would change / But in many ways, things have not; there are still madmen ruling this world / With minds poisoned by that which they themselves are too imprudent to understand / There are still masses of the manifestation of ignorance…and they themselves / With closed eyes and ears, sedentary, lost, follow these madmen to seek what they crave: / That false promise that was given unto them upon which the madmen ride o o o DANIELLE LEVANAS, daughter of the Honorable Michael Levanas and Suzanne Bragg Levanas, graduated from New York University on May 12 with the degree of bachelor of fine arts in theatre with honors. Danielle attended Corpus Christi and Marymount High School. She is currently living in New York and pursuing an acting career. o o o MACKENZIE KUGEL organized a lemonade stand and bake sale to save coral reefs with Willows Community School classmates JORDAN ARGRETT and BRADLEY FOUNTAINE on May 2 at the Palisades Recreation Center. The second graders study the ocean and are doing community service projects to bring attention to the global coral reef crisis. The students raised $300.25 over the weekend to benefit the Planetary Coral Reef Foundation, which is based in Pacific Palisades. o o o ELIZABETH GOODHUE CRAVER, a freshman at Goucher College in Maryland, was named to the dean’s list for the fall 2004 semester. o o o DAVID WEINER-CRANE has been named to the Academic Honor Roll for the winter term at Northfield Mount Hermon School, in Northfield, Massachusetts. David, a sophomore, is the son of Stephen Crane and Elizabeth Weiner.
CLASSIFIED ADS FROM THE MAY 19, 2005 ISSUE OF THE PALISADIAN-POST
HOMES FOR SALE 1
MAGNIFICENT 180′ VIEWS. Palos Verdes to Malibu. 2 bed+2 lge baths. 1,824 sq ft. Triple & 1/2 mfg. home in Tahitian Terrace. No age limit “family park,” as of May 05. Exceptional schools! Largest space in park, huge deck, pond w/ 10′ waterfall, 25′ palms. New carpet, freshly painted, vaulted ceilings, lge walk-ins. 2 car carport + extra pkg space. Must See! $615,000. Owner. Call (972) 771-4657 SAVE BIG MONEY buying a home! Remington700.Com or recorded message: (800) 842-5316, ext. 709 PAC PAL. STUNNING ocean, mtn views. This stunning 1,200 sq. foot 2 BD, 2 BA remodeled manuf home in Tahitian Terrace offers the beach seeking buyer a quiet, private oasis across from Will Rogers State Beach. Rent control. Pets ok. $469K. SC Realty, Franklin, (818) 346-6601. Lic.# 01039561 MAGICAL PARADISE in a GATED country estate nestled on expansive lush wooded grounds overlooking Rustic Canyon! The private compound includes an upscale 4 bed, 3 bath, remodeled ranch-style home, high-beamed ceilings, gourmet kitchen, separate 2-story guesthouse, fruit trees, waterfall, extensive decks, pool, spa and more. Offered at $4,549,000. Not listed in the MLS. For appt., call agent, (310) 459-0765 YUCCA VALLEY, CA. 2 BD, 1 BA & large den on 1/4 acre. Approx 1,100 sq ft w/ gas, hardwd flrs & rock fireplace. Built in the ’50s. In excellent condition, but needs work. Best cash offer over $225 K. Call ERA Realty, (760) 365-0647, or owner Ray, (310) 454-7432 SEAL BEACH, LEISURE WORLD. 2 bd, 2 bath. Corner unit. Covered patio. Nicest location. $299K. Call (562) 431-3395 or (310) 454-5157UNFURNISHED HOMES 2a
VIEW OF QUEEN’S NECKLACE. 4 bedroom, 2 bath, family room. Remodeled kitchen, new carpet. 1 year lease. Available April 1st. $5,950/mo. Call Patsy, (818) 703-7241. FABULOUS COUNTRY TRADITIONAL near bluffs. 2 bed, 1 bath, large. Big sunny office, hardwood floors, formal dining room, huge living room. Redone kitchen. 2-car garage. Private backyard. Perfect. Principals only. Available. $4,700/mo. (310) 571-1368 OCEAN VIEW CONDO. Walk to beach. 2 bed, 2 bath, 1,300 sq ft. New. Hardwood floors, granite kitchen, marble bathrooms. Large deck. Huge closets. High ceilings. W/D. Garage. $2,900/mo. www.malibucoastline.com. (310) 230-4200 A SERENITY IN TOPANGA. Surrounded by oaks, wrap-around deck, 2 bed, 2 bath. Beautiful wood & glass home. Huge family/media room or Master suite. New stainless-steel appliances, new carpets, wood floors, W/D. $3,200/mo. (310) 455-9616FURNISHED APARTMENTS 2b
GREAT 4 IN-LAWS. Sr citizen summer lease. Bright, sparking, clean with new furniture. 1 bed, 1 bath condo. Available June thru Oct ’05. $1,600/mo, incl utils. Broker. (310) 456-8700UNFURNISHED APARTMENTS 2c
PALISADES ON THE BLUFFS. 2 bd, 2 ba w/ unobstructed ocean views! Lush gardens, large yard, heated pool. $3,500/mo., utils included. No cats/dogs. 1 year lease. Call for details: (310) 454-1042 CARMEL in THE PALISADES. 2 bedroom, beautiful lot. Walk to village. $3,495/mo. Agent. Call Nancy, (310) 230-7305 CHARMING Pac Pal EUROPEAN GUEST cottage with great ocean view. Small, ideal for one. Lovely location. Totally separate residence with private entrance & large, tended walled garden. Hardwood flrs, new paint, W/D, dishwasher, tiled patio, garage. $2,500/mo. (310) 454-5656 SUNSET IN THE VILLAGE. Spacious 1 BD, 1 BA penthouse. Newly renovated. Large rooftop patio, walk-in closet. Gated parking, security bldg., laundry. $2,400/mo. 1 year lease. (310) 454-6074 PALISADES 2 BED, 1 BATH. Upper unit, 2 parking spaces, laundry, Available now. 16280 Sunset Blvd. $1,800/mo. 1 year lease. Call (310) 459-6420 CUTE 2-STORY COTTAGE on the bluffs. 1 bedroom, 1.5 bath. Good storage. Best for 1 person. $2,300/mo. Call (310) 459-2928 LUXURY PAL. TOWNHOUSE for lease. 3 bed, 2.5 bath. Over 1,900 sq ft. Recently remodeled. Like new. Comm pool, spa, tennis courts & exercise room. 2-car garage. Avail 7/15. $3,900/mo. (310) 230-8222 $2,200/mo. 1 BED, 1 BATH. (1,200 sq ft.) in unique Medit triplex near bluffs. Picture window, hardwood flrs, built-in shelves & spacious tiled kitchen, tiled bath, fireplace, laundry, garden. 1 yr lease. No pets. N/S. (310) 829-6931 $3,300/mo. 2 BED, 1 BA, spacious & tiled. Kitchen, bonus room (1,800 sq ft). Entire upper coverage of Medit triplex near bluffs (feels like tree-house). Fireplace, hardwood flrs, ceiling fans, balconies, shutters, laundry, garden. 1 yr lease. No pets. N/S. (310) 829-6931 SPACIOUS, NEWLY RENOVATED 2,400 sf single-level condo. 2 bd/den+2.5 ba+new kitchen. 2-car park. Small lux bldg, close to village. Exceptional value. $3,500/mo. 1 yr lease. Agent Nancy, (310) 230-2480ROOMS FOR RENT 3
LOVELY FURNISHED ROOM & bath with mini-kitchen opens to garden w/ separate entry. Quiet, single, female, mature person or student. N/S. $750/mo. Refs req. Avail 7/1/05. (310) 459-5261WANTED TO RENT 3b
GARAGE STORAGE SPACE wanted in the Palisades for a car. The owner lives on Chautauqua & drives it twice per month. Please call (818) 557-0135 PROFESSIONAL FAMILY LOOKING for upscale long-term (2 or more years) lease or lease/option rental in Pac Palisades/Malibu. Need min. 3 bed, 2.5 baths. Move-in July or August. Please contact Rick or Janice Rosner, (203) 544-8991. Email rgr@the riverbankgroup.comOFFICE/STORE RENTALS 3c
CORNER OFFICE AVAIL on Via de la Paz. Sublet, month-to-month. No traffic, quiet, clean and very bright. 20 x 12. Avail now. $600/mo. Call (310) 454-0685 2 OFFICE SPACES AVAILABLE in professional bldg in Palisades village. 750 square feet. Call Ness, (310) 230-6712, ext.105 PALISADES VILLAGE OFFICE for sub-lease. Quiet 1 room office with bathroom. Approx 150 sq feet. $575/mo. Month-to-month. Call (310) 573-1055VACATION RENTALS 3e
PRIVATE FURN APARTMENT IN PARIS. Services available. 24-hour hotline. Starting at $75 a night for 2 persons (studios to 4 bedrooms). Privacy, economy, convenience as you live like a Parisian. 5 day minimum. Established in 1985. PSR 90, Ave Champs-Elysees. PSR, Inc. (312) 587-7707. Fax (800) 582-7274. Web address: www.psrparis.com. Email: Reservations@psrparis.comPERSONALS 6b
SEMPER FI. HONORABLE Marine, Vietnam combat vet seeks volunteers to form hands-on help organization for disabled and Sr. Veterans and their families. Call Ray Nasser, (310) 454-7432 at 16321 PCH, #63, Pac Palisades, CA 90272COMPUTER SERVICES 7c
COMPUTER SUPPORT – Home – Business – Desktop & Network Support – Low Rates – One Or One Hundred PCs, We Can Help. WWW.FRANKELCONSULTING.COM. Providing Solutions for 18 Years – (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 COMPUTER CONSULTANT, MAC SPECIALIST. Very Patient, Friendly and Affordable. Tutoring Beginners to Advanced Users. Wireless DSL internet. MAC/PC SET UP – Repair – Upgrade – OS X. Senior discounts! Home/Office. William Moorefield, (310) 838-2254. macitwork.com MyMacGuy.NET. “Taking You To The Next Mac Level.” (Local resident for 16 years). Solutions/Tutoring (310) 459-7544GARAGE, 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 – Furniture – Antiques – Collectibles – Junque – Reliable professionals Local ReferencesNANNIES/BABYSITTERS 8a
EXPERIENCED NANNY SEEKING f/t live-in position. Has car and driver’s license. Speaks fluent English. Call Alexandra, (310) 422-8358 F/T BABYSITTER or HOUSEKEEPER, live-in. Has over 2 years experience and own transportation. Please call Vanessa or Morena, (323) 692-0827 SEEKING p/t or f/t live-out BABYSITTER or HOUSEKEEPER position. I am honest, pleasant, responsible and speak English well. Please call Marcela, (310) 936-7133 F/T NANNY/HOUSEKEEPER available. Live-in or live-out. Experiences, references, good English. Please call Aurelia, (310) 235-1074HOUSEKEEPERS 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 P/T HOUSEKEEPER AVAILABLE. Can work Thursday and Fridays. I have a car, insurance and references. Can also do errands. Call Delmy, (323) 363-9492 P/T HOUSEKEEPER AVAIL. Mon., Tues., Wed., and Fri. Has own transportation. Experienced, references, good English and is pleasant. Please call Carol, (323) 299-1797 EXCELLENT HOUSEKEEPER AVAIL. Own car, speaks perfect English. Responsible and reliable. I have good references. Please call Rose, (310) 779-8643 SEEKING P/T HOUSEKEEPER 2 days, Wednesday and Friday. Must be organized, reliable, efficient and pleasant. Must speak English well and have car available for errands. Call Nicole, (310) 573-0350 SEEKING LIVE-IN HOUSEKEEPER/nanny for a warm Palisades family with 3 children. Tuesday through Saturday. Must have experience w/ children. Please call Marni, (310) 418-1445 HOUSEKEEPER/NANNY AVAILABLE part-time. I have a car, good references, good English and experience. Juliana, (323) 691-9912, cell, or (323) 751-0586, hm OUR WONDERFUL HOUSEKEEPER is available full-time Mon.-Fri. Extremely reliable and pleasant. Has own car, speaks English; same family for 5 yrs. Please call Lisa, (213) 680-7939ELDER CARE/COMPANIONS 10a
WOMAN NEEDED to HELP a partially handicapped lady with her daily exercises & housework, 5 days per week for a FAMILY of TWO. Prefer you to live-in. Must be able to drive OUR car. No children or pets. Malibu area. Salary is open. Call (310) 457-3393 HOME & CARE MANAGEMENT, hospital sitter, homemaker, companion, CNA, baby nurse. Live-in/live-out. Nursing care, drive to doctors, prepare meals, housekeeping. Bonded & Insured. Call now for special rate. (800) 987-7077 COMPASSIONATE & RESPONSIBLE LICENSED nurse. Extensive experience includes rehab, geriatric, hospice, psyche and post-surg. care, as well as high-profile clients who require confidentiality. Refs available. Call (323) 691-4707 or (323) 734-2520GARDENING, 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 ERIC LANDSCAPING & GARDEN MAINTENANCE. We’ll make your garden dreams come true. Over 15 yrs local experience. References. Call Eric at (310) 396-8218 BUDGET SPRINKLERS & LANDSCAPING – INSTALLATIONS – REPAIRS – UPGRADING & SOD – YARD CLEAN-UPS – FREE ESTIMATES/CASH DISCOUNTS. Lic. #768354 – (310) 398- 8512 GARCIA GARDENING SERVICES. Landscaping, maintenance, planting, sprinkler systems and clean-ups. Call Efren, (818) 881-8523, or cell, (310) 733-7414MOVING & HAULING 11b
HONEST MAN SERVICES. 14″ van & dollies. Small jobs to 2 bedrooms. Hauls it all. California/Nevada. Over 12 years. Westside experience. (310) 285-8688HEALTH & BEAUTY CARE 12a
MOBILE MANICURING SERVICE. For the best manicures and pedicures. Call Cyndi, (310) 213-7223WINDOW WASHING 13h
NO STREAK WINDOW cleaning service. Fast and friendly. Quality service you can count on. Free estimates. Lic. #122194-49. Please call (323) 632-7207MISCELLANEOUS 13i
PRESSURE WASHING. Driveways, patios, walk-ways, garages, dirt, oil, rust, paint and moss removal. Concrete, brick, natural stone. Clear and colored-stain sealers. Large/small jobs. Craig, (310) 459-9000 LOCAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT firm w/ references will handle all rental & maintenance for your home or apartment. Competitive rates. Fees available upon request. (310) 230-9479 or (760) 318-8345PET SERVICES/PET SITTING 14g
BE HAPPY TO COME HOME! Trusted house/pet care in & around Palisades since 1986. Educated responsible. (310) 454-8081 K-90272 MOBILE PET SERVICES. Grooming, customized to your pet’s lifestyle. Vehicle equipped w/warm water. Additional services: Pet sitting. Dog walking. Training. Transportation. Rebecca, (310) 238-2339 PET HEAVEN – TOTAL PET CARE – Training. Walking. Play groups. Does your dog need manners? Call (310) 454-0058 for a happy dog. POODLES TO BREED. Stunning, standard males. These boys are beautiful and of superb AKC lineage. Contact (310) 576-3265MISCELLANEOUS 14i
NEED a RIDE in TOWN? I’m available for errands, hair & MD appts & grocery shopping. Friendly, reliable and safe, w/ local references. Call Catherine, (310) 927-7212FITNESS INSTRUCTION 15a
NORDIC WALKING. Nordic Walking burns up to 46% more calories than regular walking and is excellent for weight loss. Perfect for all ages. Makes a great gift and get the 1st instructional DVD in the U.S. for only $29.50! Personal Training walking classes and Nordic walking poles avail. Check at www.nordicwalkingonline.com or call (310) 573-9000 FITNESS FOR WOMEN. ZIMMERMAN FITNESS FOR WOMEN specializes in weight loss and body shaping. Our private studio near the village offers professional & individual services, using the finest equipment and products. This specific one-on-one training is safe, natural, efficient and exclusively for women. Appointment only. Local references. Call us for a free consultation: (310) 573-9000. www.zfit.comSCHOOLS, INSTRUCTION 15d
SWIM LESSONS. Children. Mommy & Me. Adults. Over 14 years experience. Red-Cross certified. Private & semi-private lessons at your home. Call Brian, (310) 505-9231TUTORS 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 SPANISH TUTOR. All grade levels, conversational & all ages. Local refs, flexible hours. Please call Noelle at (310) 273-3593 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 SPANISH TUTOR, CERTIFIED teacher. Palisades resident. Over 14 years experience. All levels. Local references. Affordable rates. Marietta, (310) 459-8180CABINET MAKING 16
CUSTOM CARPENTRY – Entertainment Units – Cabinets – Libraries – Bars – Wall Units – Custom Kitchens – Remodeling – Designed to your Specifications – Free Estimates – CA Lic. #564263 – (310) 823-8523 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 16c
MASONRY & CONCRETE CONTRACTOR. 30 YEARS IN PACIFIC PALISADES. Custom masonry & concrete, stamped, driveways, pool, 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 ALAN PINE GENERAL Contractors. Remodeling, additions, kitchens, baths. Local resident. California License #469435. Call Alan, (800) 800-0744CONSTRUCTION 16d
PARADISE CONSTRUCTION Building Contractor – All Trades – Lic. #808600. Call (310) 383-1659 CASTLE CONSTRUCTION. New homes, remodeling, additions, fine finish carpentry. Serving the Westside for 20 yrs. Lic. #649995. Call James, (310) 450-6237 PALISADES CONSTRUCTION SERVICES. KEVIN B. NUNNELEY. (310) 454-5029 – 1 (877) 360-6470 Toll-Free. Local References Avail. Lic. #375858ELECTRICAL 16h
PALISADES ELECTRIC, ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR. All phases of electrical, new construction to service work. (310) 454-6994. Lic. #468437. Insured. Professional Service ELECTRICIAN HANDYMAN. All Phases and General Repairs. 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) 706-1996FLOOR 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 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 WILSON HARDWOOD FLOORS. Complete installation, refinish and re-coat. Fully insured. License #380380. Ask for Kevin Wilson, (310) 478-7988HANDYMAN 16n
HANDYMAN, Since 1975. Call for your free est. Local ref. Lic. #560299. Member, Chamber of Commerce. 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 HANDYMAN, Comprehensive Home Repair – Improve – Build – Install – Repair – Professional Reliable Service – Happiness Guaranteed. (not lic.) – Daniel Howe, cell (310) 877-5577 PETERPAN – Quality Home Repair -Serving Entire Westside. (Not lic.) Ask for Peter, (310) 663-3633HEATING & 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 – 51 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 MASTERPIECE PAINTING & DECOR – Specializing in Faux Finishes – Stenciling & Plaster Effects – Interior/Exterior – Free Estimate – Lic. #543487. Bill Lundby, MFA in Palisades, (310) 459-7362 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. SQUIRE PAINTING CO. Interior and Exterior. License #405049. 25 years. Local Service. (310) 454-8266. www.squirepainting.comPLUMBING 16s
ROBERT RAMOS, Plumbing Contractor – Copper repipes – Remodels – New Construction – Service & Repair – Water Heaters – Licensed – Bonded – Insured – St. lic. #605556 – Cell, (310) 704-5353 BOTHAM PLUMBING AND HEATING. Lic. #839118. (310) 827-4040REMODELING 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 BASIX DESIGNS & REMODELING, INC. WE DO IT ALL – Kitchen & Bathroom Remodeling Specialist – Room Additions – Interior/Exterior Paint – Windows/Doors – Custom Carpentry – Plumbing – Electrical – Call For Free Estimate – Toll Free: (877) 422-2749 – Lic. #769443HELP WANTED 17
DRIVERS: GREAT HOME time. Pay and benefits! Regional drivers make up to $55,000/yr. Team drivers make up to $150,000/yr. Werner Enterprises. Ph: (800) 346-2818, ext. 561 PRE-SCHOOL TEACHER needed who loves children, art, music. Team player with experience and 12 ECE units. Begins September, 2005. Fax resume: (310) 454-7203 OFFICE ASSISTANT. Busy chiropractic office needs p/t assistant must be friendly, professional & precise. Start $11/hr. Mon, Wed, 1-7:30 p.m. Fax resume, attn: Crystal, (310) 459-7804 WEEKLY CAREGIVER NEEDED for older woman. Monday through Friday. Hours are 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. Good food preparation is important. Please call (310) 454-9467 SEEKING P/T HOUSEKEEPER. Monday, Wednesday & Saturday from 9 A.M. to 4 P.M. Must have excellent local references, valid Calif driver’s license and insurance. Some driving & errand-running is involved. Must be legally able to work in the US; a background and DMV check may be done. Position starts in early June & pay commensurate with experience. Please call Michelle at (310) 927-1128 to set up an interview. SCHOOL BUS DRIVER to & from school, Sept.-June. Route is Topanga to & from Westside. Must have Class B license, with P endorsement, 2 years experience, DMV printout and your school bus cert. Call Renee or Judy, (310) 455-3725 or fax (310) 455-7209. Apply by 6/15. $15.30/hr. PARISH OFFICE RECEPTIONIST needed. We are looking for a ft/pt office receptionist for our Corpus Christi parish office in Pac Palisades. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m, 4 to 5 days/wk. Catholic values, a welcoming personality and good clerical and computer skills. Call Lorraine, (310) 454-1328, ext. 245 RECEPTIONIST at SKINCARE SALON in the Palisades needed. Hours are Wednesday through Saturday from, 10 A.M. to 6 P.M. Call Kathy, (310) 713-7685 or (310) 459-8757, after 6 p.m. WANTED: PRESCHOOL TEACHER with experience & ECE units. Starts in September 05. Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Please fax resume to (310) 573-3684 or mail to Methodist Preschool, 801 Via de la Paz, Pac Palisades, CA 90272 WANTED: PRESCHOOL TEACHER’S Aid. Working with children 412 hours/day. Monday to Friday. Please fax resume to (310) 573-3684 or mail to Methodist Preschool, 801 Via de la Paz, Pac Palisades, CA 90272 WANTED: PERSONAL ASSISTANT. Must have good writing & computer skills. Be outgoing with a friendly personality. Be able to work w/ staff and families. Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Must be able to work later if needed. Please fax resume to (310) 573-3684 or mail to Methodist Preschool, 801 Via de la Paz, Pac Palisades, CA 90272 WANTED: SOMEONE to WATER a garden once a week. Call evenings. (310) 454-7060 OFFICE ASSISTANT. NEEDED by busy home-office in the Palisades. F/T assistant to answer phones, schedule appts, office tasks. No calls. Email resume: Dori@MilestonesInc.com. SEEKING LIVE-IN housekeeper/nanny for Palisades family. Must speak English with excellent references. Please call Lisa, (213) 680-7939SITUATIONS WANTED 17a
PERSONAL ASST/NOTARY Public avail. Let me help you run your life more smoothly. I’m proficient in bookkeeping, clerical duties, event coordination, mailing/research. Honest, reliable, discrete, local. Excellent refs. Patti, (310) 720-8004AUTOS 18b
CASH FOR your CARS $. Foreign or domestic. Running or not. We come to you. We handle all paperwork. Friendly, professional buyer. Please call (310) 995-5898 1995 TOYOTA CAMRY V6LE. Black, single owner. Service papers. Very clean. 135K miles. $4,500. (310) 454-5270FURNITURE 18C
LARGE BEDROOM FURNITURE. Dark wood, Calif. King w/ 4 poster frame (mattress set incl). 2 nightstand tables, 7 drawer chest & bench. Like new and beautifully kept. A must see! Call (310) 230-3340GARAGE, ESTATE SALES 18d
EARLY BIRDS GARAGE Sale. Great outdoor light-fixtures, patio chairs, steel top butcher block table, over-stuffed leather chair with ottoman, office chair, roman shades and more! FRI. 5/20, 8-10:30 A.M. & SAT. 8 A.M.-12 P.M. 1036 El Medio, off Sunset. PALISADES YARD SALE. Great stuff. Good prices. SAT. MAY 21, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.-No Early Birds! 778 Ocampo DriveMISCELLANEOUS 18g
ONLY THE BEST. American Cancer Society/Discovery Shop, MAY 21 & May 22. Brentwood Country Mart, 253 26th Street. (310) 458-4490. Ask how you can receive 25% savings for the next 30 days.WANTED TO BUY 19
WANTED: Old tube guitar amplifiers, ’50s, ’60s, etc. Tommy, (310) 306-7746 – profeti2001@yahoo.comCharlene Driver Lamb, 85; Homemaker, World Traveler
Charlene D. Lamb, who was known to her many friends as ‘Ching,’ passed away on April 20 in Pacific Palisades. She was 85. ”Charlene was born in Los Angeles, May 9, 1919 to Nell and Charles Driver. Her family moved to Kenilworth, Illinois, where she and her sister grew up. Charlene went to New Trier High School, where she met her future husband, James. She attended Mills College for one year, then tranferred to Colorado College in Colorado Springs. She graduated in 1941 with a B.A. in English. Charlene was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and a 65- year member of Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority. ”On May 16, 1942, she and Jim were married at St. Albans Episcopal Church in Westwood. Years later her daughter, Patty, and granddaughter, Lindsay, would chose the same location for their weddings. As a World War II bride Charlene remained in Los Angeles, close to her parents, who also had moved back, and worked at Douglas Aircraft as a draftsman, while Jim served in the Navy. ”After the war they lived in Redondo Beach and then Brentwood, and had two daughters. In 1952, despite Jim’s successful position as a security analyst, they moved to Oregon and became farmers. Charlene took great pride in her organic garden and along with the orchards and animals, the farm provided everything her family needed to eat. It was difficult work, but Charlene pursued the arduous life as if she had always done it, and what she didn’t know she learned. After four profitable years as organic farmers, they moved to Santa Monica to raise, now, three daughters. ”In 1978, she moved to Pacific Palisades and subsequently her daughters and their husbands did too. Charlene, known as ‘Chama’ to her grandchildren, traveled the world, expertly planning all the historical locations, restaurants and hotels not to be missed. She was an avid reader, intensely interested in history, politics and her country. She loved her friends, entertaining, gardening, sharing stories, and finding coincidental connections between people she met. She was a uniquely genuine lady, gracious, generous, caring, vivacious, fashionable, humorous and intelligent, with a superb memory for details. ”An excellent homemaker, mother, and grandmother, she was deeply devoted to her family. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her. ”Charlene was predeceased by her husband of 60 years, James, and her sister, Beatrice Holland. She is survived by her daughters, Sue (husband Jim) McNiel, Sally Lamb, and Patty (husband Jolly) Gissell; grandchildren Lindsay McNiel Commons, Stephen McNiel, Thomas Gissell, Michael Gissell; and many nieces and nephews. ”Donations in Charlene’s memory may be made to St. John’s Health Center Foundation, designated for the Nursing Endowment Fund, 1328 22nd. St., Santa Monica, CA 90404.
Wolfgang Schlueter; Longtime Resident, Building Designer
Wolfgang A. Schlueter, a 43-year resident of Pacific Palisades, passed away peacefully on May 13 at Oceanview Convalescent Hospital in Santa Monica. He was 75. Born and raised in Hamburg, Germany, Wolfgang was an architecture major in college and worked for an architectural firm in Hamburg before immigrating to the United States in 1959. In California, he became a food facilities designer specializing in restaurants, hotels and hospitals. Wolfgang was involved in the design of the House of Lee restaurant in the Palisades. The light fixtures that hang in the back dining room of the current Pearl Dragon restaurant were part of his design. He also was active in the YMCA’s men’s club of Santa Monica, sang in the choir at Corpus Christi Church in the Palisades and was an avid golfer. He is survived by Barbara, his wife of 23 years; daughter Connie Bowman of San Dimas; granddaughters Tamara Ryan and Natalie Diehl; and stepchildren Clark, Scott and Stacy Diehl. A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 21 at 3:30 p.m. at Gates, Kingsley Gates, 1925 Arizona Ave., Santa Monica.
Tom Wallach; Psychiatrist, Musician
Tom Harlan Wallach, D.O., beloved husband, father, brother, son, uncle and friend, passed away peacefully at home on May 13 after a courageous nine-year battle with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He was 54. ”Born October 20, 1950 in Queens, New York, Tom was a graduate of University of Louisville and Des Moines School of Osteopathy. He was a prominent psychiatrist in both Los Angeles and Charlotte, North Carolina. He had lived with his family in Pacific Palisades since 1996. ”A great lover of sports, Tom was also a musician, songwriter and lead singer of the group The Boston Tea Party. But above all, his No. 1 passion was his wife and children. ”Tom is survived by his loving wife of 13 years, Deborah, and daughters Brittany, 13, and Jacqueline, 10, of Pacific Palisades; mother Maggie of Los Angeles; brother Michael of Brentwood; and his many loving family members and friends. His father was the late Supreme Court Justice for the state of New York, Louis Wallach. ”In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Phase One, 256 26th St., Suite 201, Santa Monica, CA 90402.
Raymond “Skip” Gillette; Home Builder, Fisherman
Longtime Pacific Palisades resident Raymond George ‘Skip’ Gillette III passed away at his home last month of an apparent heart attack. He was 46. Born on August 1, 1958, Gillette grew up in Bel-Air and attended Bellagio Road Elementary School, Emerson Junior High and Harvard School. He graduated from USC, where he was an active member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. After college, he moved to Brentwood, then Santa Monica, eventually settling in the Palisades on Las Casas. Gillette was owner of RGG III Development Corporation, a residential general contracting company located in the Palisades. He specialized in custom homes and remodels on the Westside, a career he learned from his father, Ray Gillette, a retired building contractor. An avid fly fisherman and golfer, Gillette belonged to the Bel-Air Country Club and had a particular interest in junior golf, ever since winning the club’s junior championship in 1976. His love of fishing began as a child, fishing for trout in the High Sierras and Big Bear with his family. Later he enjoyed ocean fishing for marlin and swordfish in the waters off the Baja Peninsula. In the past 15 years, his passion turned to fly fishing in Sun Valley, Idaho, during summer family vacations. Warm and affable, Gillette loved World War II movies, Westerns and yellow Labradors, which he always named ‘Duke.’ He will most be remembered for his dry wit and humor, his fierce loyalty to his friends and his kind, generous spirit. Most of his closest friendships had endured since childhood. He leaves behind his parents Ray and Jeanne Gillette of Bel-Air; his brother Jim Gillette and his sister Nancy Gillette, both Palisades residents; six nephews and one niece. A family service was held in his memory.
Rosendahl Gains City Council Seat
Photo by Rich Schmitt, Staff Photographer
Bill Rosendahl, previously best known as host of a Westside public affairs show on cable television, defeated Flora Gil Krisiloff in the L.A. City Council District 11 runoff election on Tuesday. He will succeed two-term Councilwoman Cindy Miscikowski on July l. Rosendahl, who turned 60 last Sunday, received 26,613 votes (56.6 percent) to Krisiloff?s 20,439 votes (43.4 percent), with 99.41 percent of the ballots counted. His campaign manager, Mike Bonin, said that Rosendahl carried 136 of the 170 precincts in a district that stretches from Pacific Palisades and Brentwood in the north, east to the 405 freeway, and south to Westchester. Endorsed by nine members of the City Council and a wide range of community leaders and organizations in the district (including the Pacific Palisades Democratic Club), Rosendahl had to overcome Krisiloff?s three key endorsements: Miscikowski, County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky and the Los Angeles Times. He gained a pivotal boost after the March primary when he was endorsed by the third candidate, attorney Angela Reddock, after she was eliminated from the race. Reddock is a Westchester resident and her support helped Rosendahl, a Mar Vista resident, build on his strength in the more populous southern part of the district. ?I truly believe this is the beginning of a new day,? Rosendahl told the Palisadian-Post early Wednesday morning as he juggled congratulatory calls on three lines at his Mar Vista office. ?My large margin of victory is clearly a mandate and an affirmation of what I stand for and the issues I believe in. I?m very grateful and humbled by the support.? Reiterating the main themes of his campaign, Rosendahl said: ?One thing I want to do is give people a more positive sense about politicians and how a democracy can work. I want to fight the sense of powerless, alienation and cynicism I encountered across the district, and I?ll do it by raising the level of citizen involvement as we work to solve our problems with traffic, congestion, development and the environment.? In Pacific Palisades, for example, Rosendahl said he wants to get engaged in the rent-hike controversy that has threatened the small-town business atmosphere along the 1000 block of Swarthmore, between Sunset and Monument. ?I want to sit down with the owners [Palisades Partners] and work with them on how we can resolve this situation, so that the character of the village?and the joy that Swarthmore brings to community members?is maintained.? On Election Day, Rosendahl ate his good-luck bowl of matzo ball soup at Mort?s Deli on Swarthmore, a tradition he began in the March primary, and he vowed to hold community forums in the adjacent Oak Room. Rosendahl?s election-night party was held at a home in Venice, where he waited until 98 percent of the vote was announced before declaring victory, around 1:30 a.m. ?I was waiting for a call from Flora that never came,? Rosendahl said, ?but I want to emphasize that I plan to spend time reaching out to those people who were involved with my opponent. I think we should have reconciliation and healing as we move forward.? Rosendahl, who is the first openly gay person to be elected to the L.A. City Council, said he respected what this means in terms of politics and public acceptance, ?but [the label] certainly doesn?t go deep enough into who I am as an individual.? Krisiloff, who met with her supporters at the Luxe Hotel in Brentwood on Tuesday evening, told Post Senior Editor Libby Motika that the high point of the election campaign was ?making it into the runoff, especially when you look at where I began. I wasn?t supposed to get this far.? ?I know the district really well after this campaign,? said the longtime Westside activist, ?and regardless of the outcome, I understand how important it is to be engaged.? But before reimmersing herself, ?I?m going to take some time off. I have spent the last 15 months campaigning, putting my life on hold.? She continued, ?I will continue to be active and involved. I am still the president of the Brentwood Community Council, and will serve on the year-long VA property commission. I am 53 years old, have two children who are grown, and I am definitely at a place in my life where I am looking to put more of myself into either public service or a job.? In an interview Wednesday morning, Rosendahl?s campaign manager, Mike Bonin, analyzed the election results. ?We had a wonderful, charismatic, open candidate who genuinely appreciated reaching out to everybody in the community, regardless of party affiliation or perspective [ e.g., conservative Republican politician Bill Simon]. We built a phenominal, truly grassroots movement that brought people together in an enormous coalition that included every neighborhood in the district and harnessed the energy of the environmental community, organized labor and average citizens who were fed up with traffic gridlock and a government that doesn?t bring them into the tent. ?I also think people didn?t like the tenor of the campaign that was raised against Bill,? Bonin said, ?and I think the results are an affirmation of positive politics.?
